Chapter 11 - The Golden Crown and the Heavy Sceptre
The celebrations of the coronation echoed through the newly restored halls of the palace, but inside the royal study, the atmosphere was thick with quiet tension. Jesse stood by the grand arched window, his golden eyes fixed on the horizon where the boundaries of the neighboring packs met. The crown of the United Packs rested heavily on his brow, a symbol of absolute authority, yet his jaw remained tight.
Jane stepped into the room, her long velvet gown whispering against the marble floor. She carried a tray with two cups of spiced tea, her footsteps cautious.
“You’re brooding again,” Jane said softly, setting the tray down on the mahogany desk before walking up behind him. She slid her small hand into his large, calloused palm.
Jesse turned his head, the severe lines of his face softening the moment his gaze locked onto hers. He pulled her flush against his chest, wrapping his arms around her waist as if anchoring himself to reality.
“The pack elders from the Northern Frost territory have sent another petition,” Jesse murmured, resting his chin on the top of her head. “They refuse to acknowledge an omega as Queen. They believe leadership requires bloodlines of iron and fangs of pure dominance.”
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Jane tilted her chin up, meeting his molten gaze with unwavering strength. “Let them come. I didn’t survive nineteen years of being treated like dust in Silver Moon to be intimidated by a few grumpy elders.”
A low, rumbling chuckle escaped Jesse’s throat, vibrating through his broad chest. He leaned down, pressing his lips gently to her forehead. “Never doubt that, my love. But as of tomorrow, we ride north. It is time they learned what happens when you challenge the heart of the King.”
