LYDIA'S POV

　　"Thinking, planning, bla-bla-bla. You sit here and do that while more people die over there," I said and turned to leave. "Out of all the people, I didn't expect this kind of cowardly behaviour from you two. And you talk about protecting me and being loyal to your position and kingdom. Learn to protect the people of this kingdom first. If you can't be my mates, then be their beta." I advised, my voice dripping with disappointment and anger as I left the room.

　　I stormed out, my mind made up. I was going to help the South Guard Pack whether they liked it or not. As I walked away, I heard them call after me, but I didn't look back. Their hesitation and cowardice infuriated me, but it also steeled my resolve. The people of the South Guard Pack needed help, and I wasn't going to abandon them.

　　I made my way to the armoury, gathering the necessary gear and supplies for the journey. My heart pounded in my chest, a mix of anger, determination, and a hint of fear. I knew the risks, but I also knew that I couldn't let fear dictate my actions. The kingdom needed answers, and I was determined to find them.

　　As I strapped on my armour, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for my harsh words to Evan and Brandon. But their reluctance to act in the face of such a dire situation was something I couldn't overlook. They needed to understand that leadership wasn't just about making plans and protecting those close to them—it was about taking risks and facing dangers head-on for the greater good.

　　With my gear secured, I left the armory and headed toward the stables but was stopped by my mother.

　　"Mom? What are you doing here?" I questioned, surprised to see her.

　　"Lydia! Thank goddess I caught you in time. I thought you had already left." She sighed in relief, her hand clutching her chest.

　　"Why? Is everything okay? Are you feeling alright?" I questioned, concern for her well-being rising in my chest.

　　"I am fine, my dear, but what are you doing? I heard you are leaving for the South Guard Pack and that too unprotected," she said, her eyes filled with worry.

　　"Yes, Mother, it is extremely important for me to leave. I can't let people die," I told her firmly.

　　"But Lydia, it's too dangerous. You don't even know what's out there. You could be walking into a trap," she pleaded, her voice trembling.

　　"I understand the risks, but the South Guard Pack needs help. I can't just sit back and do nothing while people are suffering," I replied, trying to make her see my point of view.

　　"Let the others handle it. Send scouts, send warriors. You don't have to go yourself," she insisted, her grip tightening on my arm.

　　"Mother, the scouts haven't returned, and the nobles refuse to send more help. I need to go myself to find out what's happening and provide aid," I explained, gently removing her hand from my arm.

　　"But what if something happens to you? I can't bear the thought of losing you," she said, tears welling up in her eyes.

　　"I know you're worried, but I can't let fear stop me from doing what's right. The kingdom needs me, and I have to answer that call," I said, my resolve hardening.

　　"You're my only child, Lydia. Please, think about what you're doing. You have responsibilities here too," she implored, her voice breaking.

　　"I've thought about it, and this is my decision. I have to do this, not just for the South Guard Pack, but for the kingdom and for myself," I replied, my voice firm.

　　"My dear, I have already lost your father once. I can't lose you. I won't be able to live with myself if anything happened to you," she said, her voice breaking as she hugged me tightly.

　　"Mother—" I stopped for a moment and hugged her back. The weight of her worries pressed against me, but I knew I had to stand firm.

　　"I know you're worried," I continued, my voice softening. "But I also know that you're taken care of here. The southern borders are waiting for help too. Think about them, Mother."

　　She released me from our embrace and looked into my eyes, desperation evident in her gaze. "Tell me that you'll reconsider your decision. Tell me that you will not go there," she asked, her voice trembling with hope and fear.

　　"Unfortunately, Mother, I'll have to say no," I said, my heart aching at the pain in her eyes. "I know that you are worried about me and scared too, but think about those people as well. You were the queen, and out of all the people, I don't expect this from you. You know, as a leader, we have to make tough decisions. I am not a leader yet, but I have every intention to return and claim the throne."

　　She looked torn, her eyes filling with tears. "Lydia, please… I can't bear the thought of something happening to you. I've already lost your father. You're all I have left."

　　I took her hands in mine, squeezing them gently. "Mother, I promised him on his deathbed that I would protect our people and uphold the legacy he left for us. I want to keep that promise."