The Wicked House of Caroline

“I want to have Laurence’s baby, but not at the cost of your health.” Lady Eleanor sounded strict when she clamped her hands on Beks’ shoulders and met her eyes. “If you feel dizzy or in any way tired, stop at once. Do not push yourself.”

Beks’ lips were in an awkward line as behind her, already waist deep in one of the pools behind the waterfall of the Mouth of the Valley, Laurence had a dull expression on his face. This was going to be the last time she would release her biha into the bihar-rich waters of the pool in order to try to heal Laurence’s body as they were set to leave that night.

When they reached Gurani Island, she planned to continue using the man-made pool in the rotunda, but hadn’t told Laurence yet. For now, she wanted to focus on using biha to heal his body internally.

“I’ll be careful.” Beks promised. Lady Eleanor studied her face to make sure she was serious before finally stepping back. Beks waded into the water and Laurence leaned back and tried to float. A wooden board was in the pool with him that he used to help him stay afloat.

Beks placed her hand on the back of his head and the other over his stomach. She pushed him down further into the water so that her hands were submerged, as her biha was controlled better in water. She closed her eyes and began to release biha.

Since she started healing Laurence in this way, he had more energy and his walking had stabilized. It allowed him to exercise more. He’d claimed he felt less tired and sore. Beks wasn’t sure if it was all in his head, but she did notice that his footing and balance had improved.

Still, her goal wasn’t just to heal the body that had been ill for a long period of time, but to hopefully allow him to father a child. As she poured her biha out, she silently prayed for a niece or nephew who would become a good ruler. Having an heir to the throne would strengthen Laurence’s position and put her mind at ease, not to mention that she knew Laurence and Lady Eleanor wished for a child.

“Did he fall asleep again?” Lady Eleanor sighed from the shore and Beks held back a small smile. Unlike Robert or Deo, who had ink energy removed from their bodies when Bek healed their markings, the process for Laurence was the same as for Laz, in that the healing was relaxing and more about absorbing the energy. It was a slow, less uncomfortable process.

Beks had instructed him to relax and take deep breaths. It wasn’t surprising that he fell asleep while floating. It happened at every session.

“How much time do we have left?” Beks asked.

Lady Eleanor checked the little hourglass they’d brought with them. “I’ve already flipped it once, so once this one ends, it will have been completed.”

Beks nodded and continued sending biha to Laurence until Lady Eleanor told her it was time. At that point, Beks shook the king awake, making sure to keep a firm grasp around his shoulders so he didn’t panic and sink beneath the water. Laurence jerked awake and squinted.

“Is it over?”

“Yes, you can rest and let your body heal the rest of the day. You absorbed a lot of biha. Let it work,” Beks said. “Are you all packed?”

“We didn’t exactly have much when we arrived,” Lady Eleanor chuckled. Laurence had been smuggled out in a pair of loose pants and a robe. Everything he wore when they arrived was given to him by the duchy.

“Bring what you can, since we lack many things on the island,” Beks said as she dragged Laurence to shore by pulling the back of his shirt. She then handed him to Lady Eleanor and climbed out. “I don’t know if they’ve been able to get more supplies from the mainland or what the situation of the resources there are, so we should be prepared.”

“All our clothes here are for cold weather, but the south is warm,” Laurence said as his fiancée helped him out of the pool. “Is it necessary?”

“It’s best if we don’t stop at ports to buy such supplies and I’d like to avoid having to send Maritime Legacy to do so on our behalf so many times,” Beks said as she put on a thick robe. “The clothes we bring can always be adjusted on the island.”

“Speaking of the island, you said that the current around it moved ships away from the island,” Laurence said as Lady Eleanor helped him put on a robe of his own. “How will our ship get through?”

“The currents are moved by stele surrounding the island. I don’t know how many there are, but if they’re like the stele that marks the exile boundaries, then each one will have a range. I theorize that if we remove a stele from the water, then that span will no longer have such a strong current and we can pass through,” Beks said. “Afterwards, we can return the stele to keep the island protected.”

“The stele are massive stones underwater,” Lady Eleanor told her with a look of concern. “The Duchess can displace water, but a stone that heavy will require some work to raise off the seafloor.”

“That’s why I asked my parents to have a good earth biha user available. The stele just needs to be out of the water. We don’t necessarily have to raise it off the seafloor.” Beks held her hands out in front of her with her palms facing down. “We can raise the ground under the stele up, placing it over the water and sail around the jutting pillar.” She raised one hand to try to give a visual.

“That’s surprisingly simple,” Laurence said with an approving nod. “What about that fog?”

“To be honest, I don’t actually know what is causing the fog,” Beks admitted with a knit brow. “I haven’t read anything on it yet and it’s likely something similar to the stele in the water, but I don’t know where it’s located. It’s not something I looked for on the island. And when you’re on the island itself, the fog clears.”

She frowned as she climbed up the steps exiting the cave. Lady Eleanor cocked her head. “You thought of something?”

Beks continued walking, but muttered out her reply. “When I washed up on the island, the fog didn’t disappear immediately. It was gradual and the further inland I went, the clearer it became, but I never noticed it again when we went to the shore. It’s unnatural and may not affect those who have been on the island. I know it’s there, even if I don’t see it.”

“This island becomes more and more mysterious the more you speak of it,” Laurence said as they reached the two carriages waiting for them. “Giant animals, displacing currents, an unnatural fog....”

“And it’s rich in bihar,” Lady Eleanor added. “I’m excited to see it. And Snowflake. It’s hard to believe that little snake has grown so big that you can ride him.”

Laurence climbed into the carriage. As he took a seat, he looked at his fiancée with disbelief. “You describe a snake longer than I am tall as ‘small’?”

“For a horned serpent he would be considered small,” Lady Eleanor replied. Beks bowed and the door to the first carriage closed. She walked to the second carriage. Inside, the curtains were drawn and a set of dry clothes waited for her on one of the benches. She changed inside as the carriage moved along.

Everyone was busy getting ready to leave when they arrived. Beks had already packed her things, but before they set sail, she wanted to call Nexus one more time. Once they were on a ship, the urapearl would not be able to connect, and she also hadn’t figured out why the urapearl hadn’t connected when they were on the island.

She needed to make use of the communication connection while she could.

Mr. Kesse’s face appeared in the urapearl and Beks immediately began reading from her notes.

“I’ve looked over the information you relayed to me regarding those houses I brought up last week,” Beks said. “I’ve selected several that have significant vested interest in the Fourth Prince’s rule and connections to the Hessings. They’re the ones I want you to arrange using the Dawn Company.”

Mr. Kesse nodded. “I am ready to take the names, my lady.”

For the next hour, Beks not only named families, but isolated certain members of the family that were especially vulnerable to her plans. “Once stage three is in place, begin spreading rumors that these families have fallen. Isolate them from their social circles to prevent assistance. If those families are troubled, they won’t have time or resources to support the Fourth Prince.”

Mr. Kesse stared at the list given. His lips were in a tightline. “When you have traced the relations like this, it seems the roots are buried further and farther than we initially thought.”

“The Third Consort has had decades to extend his influence, and who knows how long the Hessings have prepared.”

Mr. Kesse nodded. “Regarding the information from the Temple, we have also begun to look into records from local Temple sites, including the Kadmium Cathedral to further investigate the ties several families have.”

“How soon can I have the information in my hands?”

“Everything we are able to collect will be ready for you at the Port of Black Sands at the designated time.”

“Confirm with the contact there that Rebecca of Lyone will be picking up the information for me.”

“Yes, my lady.”

Beks ended the call and leaned back against her chair. Politically, she would be able to mitigate the Fourth Prince and the Third Consort’s influence within a few months, allowing the faction that was hesitant to give him authority to rule more influence. She’d have to reign in that influence for Laurence.

In that period of time, they needed to organize a military force. She had her father, brother, and Laz with a plethora of experience to take the bulk of the arrangement, but that still left the planning of supporting a military up to her.

As for dealing with the aftermath of their takeover, that was up to Laurence.

They had a long night ahead of them. The ship that had escorted Hilga’s ship with additional biha users to the drop off point on the mainland had scarce time to rest and refresh their supplies before they would set off again.

After some consideration, Beks wanted to leave her two younger siblings on the island, concerned about the danger they would face not only on the journey back but with the upcoming campaign to retake the island. Her parents considered it, as well, but Thad and Wrath argued to come. Thad wanted to continue training with his master enroute.

Biha education was formulaic in the duchy. It was formal and was based on tried-and-true foundations; however, for true mastery, experience was necessary. Experience allowed for creativity and innovation. Both her father and Deo had reached their level not only from the size of their biha well, but from their time serving in the duchy’s army.

Thad was a bit too young to do so, but he could gain a wide array of experience with his pirate wind biha master.

As for Wrath, she was determined to see big animals. She had clutched her book on legendary beasts, convinced that there were many to see on the island, and said if they left her behind, she’d run away to follow them.

Their father had given her an exasperated look and said there was no need for her to go that far. Part of him wanted to keep the family together for as long as possible.

In the end, the entire family boarded Leviathan’s Throne.

It was well into the night when they set off. Beks was called out to the quarter deck by her mother while her younger siblings were sleeping. Deo remained with them, but her father was with her mother on the deck, appearing to be admiring the stars.

“Mommy, you wanted to see me?” Bek said as she stood by the stairs and waited to be called forward.

Her mother turned towards her and nodded. She held something in her hand; a piece of coarse cloth, it looked like.

“We are going to take a slight detour and go along the coast before the rendezvous with Auntie at the midpoint between the Port of Black Sands and the West Islands,” Sybil told her as she approached.

Beks nodded. “You’re worried that more naval ships are coming.” Her mother nodded in return. Beks let out a heavy sigh, but kept her back straight. “The Kadmus navy is a fleet of a hundred and fifteen ships in total, with twenty to twenty-five on dry dock at any given time for maintenance. Those ships range from smaller rescue vessels that patrol the waters around a port, such as the Port of Black Sands, to three classes of cruisers and two classes of warships. Those cruisers do the bulk of the patrolling, but are smaller and less armed. We are most likely to run into them on the open ocean. The warships will likely patrol closer to shore.” Her mother nodded. “Do you know where?”

“They are concentrated on the west and southwest,” Beks replied. “The ships that came last time were two war ships and four cruisers.” She tried not to grimace. “Including a new class one war ship.” She had to budget carefully in order to have enough money to commission new and improved ships.

“How many warships do you estimate remain at sea?” Sybil asked.

“Depending on how many are in dry dock, between eighteen and thirty. Twenty is the minimum required at sea at any given time, but two have been destroyed,” Beks answered. “Do you plan on destroying more ships?”

Her mother chuckled. “Does it pain you so much to see them sink?”

“I worked hard for them.” She didn’t hide it. Her mother chuckled some more.

“Maritime Legacy can do enough damage that will slow them down and require them to be repaired, but not destroy or sink them. Is that good enough?”

“Repairs are usually cheaper than a new ship, so yes,” Beks replied.

“Then, for more accuracy, I’ll need to use much more biha.” Sybil lifted up the pale, coarse cloth in her hand and held it out to Beks. “You will need this.”

Beks furrowed her brows and reached out. The cloth was heavier than it looked and upon closer inspection, Beks noticed that it was a vest. A vest that was rather low and ended with a long tail of fabric. She knew the thick band of cork around the neck and arm holes was to keep her afloat if she fell in the water, but why was the design strange? And why was a metal ring so securely sewn onto the upper back?

She raised her brows to look at her mother. “What is this?”

“Safety harness,” Sybil replied. Her lips tightened into a frown. “I don’t want to risk what happened last time.”

“In the case where your mother and other biha users onboard require more biha, they will need your help,” Robert said as he lowered the sextant he was using. “Your brother’s shoddy ability to tie knots prompted us to think of a better way to secure you.”

“The harness will go on like a normal vest, but the fabric hanging will go between your legs and hook on to the little metal rings on the front to insure that you will not slip out of it,” Sybil said. “A latch will be attached to the ring on the back. It is connected to a rope secured around the center mast. The rope is no longer than half the deck’s length.”

Beks stared at the harness in her hands. Even if she were knocked off her feet, unless she was near the railing on the side, she wouldn’t hit the water if she went overboard. At most, she’d be hanging around the surface.

“In the event that the ship begins to sink, unlatch hooks on your stomach to slip out of the harness,” her mother told her.

Beks looked at her with a deadpan expression. “Mommy, I can’t swim.”

Sybil stared at her daughter for a moment. Despite her stoic expression, Beks could see a hint of embarrassment in her eyes. “I keep forgetting that.”

“Why doesn’t she just put it on backwards so she can unlatch the main hook on the back?” Robert suggested. “As long as she’s wearing it, she can float.”

“Yes, let’s just do that,” Sybil said with a nod. “Someone will help you put it on when needed.”

“All right.”

Her mother reached out and caressed her head and cupped the side of her cheek. “It’s already late. Get some rest.”

“How soon will we reach the edge of Stromwal?” Beks asked as she draped the harness over her shoulder.

“Four days if we go along the coast,” Sybil replied. “I can only hope that the navy learned their lesson and haven’t ordered more ships to come north. It’s a miracle that six made it that far considering the terrain. I’ve underestimated the Kadmus navy.”

Beks nodded. “Remember what you said.”

“I know,” her mother said with a reassuring smile. “Damage, not destroy. I won’t let my daughter’s hard work be in vain.”

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She watched with dull eyes as the latest ship to fall into her mother’s line of sight rolled on to its side, its masts shattered, revealing a gaping hole in the hull. The corner of her eye twitched. She was strapped into her safety harness and latched on to the mast as she watched from the bow of her mother’s ship as rain pelted her face.

Faint screaming and yelling was heard as the already choppy waters along the shallows around the jagged northern coastline grew more violent, turning white with churning foam.

“How much did that cost?” Laurence asked. For his own safety in the wind and rain of the edge of Stromwal, he had rope around his waist and was also secured to the ship. As the king, Beks would’ve given him her harness if he could fit in it properly.

“At least a season’s running costs,” Beks answered in a forced voice. Her eyes narrowed. “For the warship alone.”

Laurence clenched his jaw, but didn’t get angry. Instead, he gave the regal woman beside him a narrowed glance. “Your Grace, I thought you were going to damage, not destroy,” he said, loud enough for the Duchess to hear.

Sybil stood firmly beside them; her arms crossed as she watched the third of three ships seem to float. “Inky saw them as a threat.”

“Can you not ask your leviathan to avoid sinking the ships?” Laurence asked.

Sybil shook her head. “A leviathan is stronger than it realizes.” Beks slowly turned her wide eyes towards her mother, who avoided her gaze.

If that were true, Inky would’ve crushed her when he plucked her from the sea. Her brother had said that Inky had been very gentle. Inky’s species of leviathan was a massive eel-like sea serpent with four tentacle-like arms or fins. Beks wasn’t sure what exactly they were called. It was those fins that shot out from the water to snap masts and puncture hulls.

However, she’d been lifted up by one, as if held in the palm of one’s hand. She’d even been carefully placed on the deck. Beks was certain Inky could control his strength.

“Talk to your leviathan,” she said in a low voice. She turned around and walked down the steps of the quarter deck, careful to avoid tripping on the rope attached to her. When she reached the captain’s quarters where her family slept, Beks unhooked the latch on her chest and placed it on the ground next to the door.

She entered the chamber to find her younger sister flipping through her favorite legendary beasts book. Thad was doing control practice by lifting small objects and rearranging them. Along with them was Lady Eleanor, who sat across from Wrath at the table, looking over several pieces of paper.

“How did you know about all these houses with debts?” she asked without looking up from the papers.

“Various reasons. Some houses should be doing well considering their businesses and properties, but their actions didn’t reflect that. Their money had to go somewhere. Other houses were in locations that weren’t prosperous for one reason or another; a bad harvest, natural disaster, lack of opportunity, but they were suspiciously wealthy and haven’t stepped back from social events, which are costly. Their money to keep up their standard of living had to come from somewhere, too,” Beks replied.

She didn’t tell her that she’d made a list of all parties she could trace to have significant ties to the Hessings, whether by blood, marriage, or business, and had Nexus collect information on those families to find their weakness. Information collection was what Nexus did best, after all, and those families weren’t exactly well hidden.

It didn’t take long to get what she wanted.

Lady Eleanor lifted her head and met Beks’ eyes. “And all these houses happen to have ties with the House of Hessing.”

“Not necessarily. Some have ties with a family related by marriage or business to the Hessings,” Beks said with a slight shrug of her shoulders. “Convenient.”

The corner of Lady Eleanor’s lips curled up. “Yes...convenient.” She collected the papers together in a neat pile. “May I ask what you plan to do with these?”

“Buy debt and demand payment,” Beks replied. “As they say, money moves things.”

Lady Eleanor raised a brow. “And what exactly do you hope to move?”

“Their support.”

“Of the Hessings?”

“And the Fourth Prince. I have to thank you,” Beks said as she took a seat at the table. “The book of nobles assisted me greatly in connecting all these houses. I was only familiar with major nobles in Kadmium, especially those who had a strong presence in the court. The book of nobles was invaluable during my research.”

The look on Lady Eleanor’s face seemed to want to ask how Beks was able to do ‘research’ in the Sacred Valley. She and Laurence received news, but when compared to what Beks seemed to know, it was much less detailed. It certainly wasn’t the curated information Beks had written down.

“Where are you getting your information?”

“I have business dealings,” Beks said. “I brought my urapearl when I was exiled. I wanted to make sure my business wasn’t affected. It’s important for me to know how my business partners and rivals are.” That was technically true.

Lady Eleanor squinted, trying to read her neutral face. “What does your business do?”

“Trading...assets....” Beks kept it as vague as possible despite Lady Eleanor’s scrutiny.

“What do you plan to do with this?” She tapped the stack of papers in front of her.

“Cause a distraction. The better off Luther’s supporters are, the harder they will fight to keep him in power. If their wealth is taken away and their status suffers, so will Luther’s support base.”

“And how do plan on doing this?”

“Making them unable to crawl out of debt by taking control of it.”

For a moment, Lady Eleanor looked concerned. “I’m not going to ask for the details, but is what you are planning legal?”

Beks squinted. “Does legality matter right now?” Lady Eleanor’s expression of concern only deepened. “Let me assure you, everything is done following the fullest extent of the law,” Beks said as she lifted her hand to her chest. “I just have to make sure they can’t pay and lose what they’ve signed in the agreements. Courts would side with me.”

“So, you are setting them up to fail in payment in order to seize collateral property.”

“If they fail to respond well to the situations that befall them, how can it be myfault?” It was definitely her fault, but she refused to admit it out loud. “The point is that when these houses are in chaos and facing bankruptcy, with what energy can they spend on support the Hessings and Luther?”

“They will be too busy trying not to lose everything,” Wrath said from her seat, without looking up from her book. Beks gave her a warm smile and stroked her younger sister’s hair back with affection.

“And what else, Wrath?”

Wrath lifted her head and furrowed her brows. Her little lips jutted out in concentration. “There is more?”

“Yes, there is more. Think about how they are going to default on their loans. They borrowed money from questionable places and spent it on questionable activities.” Beks guided her sister and Wrath put her book down.

“Such as...?” the little girl asked.

“Unregulated individuals and institutions, such as gambling dens.”

Wrath seemed to wrack her little head for a few moments before it shot up and looked at her sister. She gasped and rushed out a stream of words. “Because the misfortunes are caused by lack of security, lack of protection, and illegal activities! The government did nothing to stop it, so they’d get mad at the government - at the Fourth Prince!”

“Smart, smart!” Beks leaned forward and kissed the top of her sister’s head. Wrath’s olive face flushed and she lifted her book to hide her shy expression. “It is under Luther’s rule that there is a lax in public security and law enforcement. They would blame him for not doing his job. Because they support him and he doesn’t do anything to help them, they’d become resentful and pull back their support.”

Lady Eleanor nodded. “But will they support Laurence?”

“The question should be, what can Brother Laurence do to win their support,” Beks said, sitting up straight.

“First, it would be to temporarily close any businesses that are accused of gambling and do a thorough investigation,” a voice said behind her. The door closed and Laurence walked in, rubbing his waist where the rope had been tied. “Find out who is involved, where the money is, and if the money can be taken back. Even if the money can’t be returned or is used as a fine, punishment placed upon the owners and their cronies will vent the anger of the people wronged. It’s a bonus to the benefit of getting rid of such problematic institutions that tend to prey upon those in dire situations.”

“You’ll need authority to facilitate such a thing,” Lady Eleanor pointed out.

“Then first, I’ll get authority. As long as they’re not backing Luther, they don’t have to be backing me. I can earn their support with action once I have authority.”

“And power. You need power,” Beks said.

“Aside from the Five Great Houses, there are two Legion Commanders I want to enlist,” Laurence said as he took a seat next to Lady Eleanor. He placed his hand over hers and looked at Beks. “Legion Commander Joachim Reed.”

Beks furrowed her brows at once. “The Western Legion Commander. He has the largest number of battalions under him.”

“Including the Wild Dogs,” Laurence replied. He took a deep breath. “When Laz was sent to military school, I asked Legion Commander Reed to watch over him. Laz is talented and diligent with his training, but he needed backing and guidance.”

Beks tilted her head to the side. “Are you close with Legion Commander Reed?”

“My father saved his life during Mother’s coup. Him watching over Laz, protecting him in the military, has more than repaid the favor, but I also know he is fond of Laz and speaks of him like his own protege.”

“Does Laz know you had someone watch over him?” Beks asked.

Laurence’s lips curled up a bit. “He’s smart enough. He should’ve figured out that Legion Commander Reed was guiding and protecting him. Whether he knows I was involved or not is unknown.”

She couldn’t help but ask. “Did you do the same for Lucian?”

Laurence’s eyes squinted. He was quiet for a moment and then nodded. “I can’t go in detail, but yes.” He raised his eyes to meet Beks’ gaze. “I even know that when the two were close enough in distance, they would switch places. For fun.” He chuckled a bit.

“Those idiots....” Lady Eleanor grumbled with a roll of her eyes.

“What about the second Legion Commander?” Beks asked.

“She holds the title, but is now a senior advisor for the Southern Legion,” Laurence replied.

This time, Lady Eleanor sat up straight and frowned. “Senior Legion Commander Veronika Laurent? Laurence, she is staunchly loyal to whoever sits on the throne, whoever it may be.”

“The Eastern Legion Commander also controls the central part of the kingdom, including Kadmium and his family is tied to the interests of our opposition,” Laurence replied with a shake of his head. “Reaching out to him will only serve to warn Luther and his father that I’m returning. The Northern Legion Commander has the fewest number of battalions, is too far from Kadmium, and encroaching on territories guarded by the Carolines and Senecas, prompted by the authority he’s been given.”

“If that’s the case, it’s unlikely that he’ll want to side with you,” Beks told them.

“I’ll speak to Laz about talking directly with Legion Commander Reed. If we can get him to support my return and acknowledge me as the rightful king, at the very least, Legion Commander Laurent will cease further involvement. That is enough for the time being.”

“Beks.” Lady Eleanor looked towards her. “You were the last to speak to the twins....” She trailed off, but Beks understood.

“They remained on the island for two reasons. The first was to avoid being seen. The second was to prepare a launching point for Brother Laurence’s return. When I left, we had little news of what was happening on the mainland. We didn’t even know if Brother Laurence was recovering well. Now, we have a better idea of what is going on. Brother Laurence has recovered well. If the situation calls for it, Laz and Lucian will leave the island to pave the way for Brother Laurence’s return.”

Laurence nodded. He lowered his eyes. “Do you think they are disappointed in me? Perhaps resent me.”

Beks cocked her head to the side. “What do you mean?”

Laurence took a deep breath and looked at Wrath across the table and then at Thad on the edge of the bed, using wind biha to move various sized rocks. “They are my younger brothers and because of my negligence, I’ve put them in a precarious situation.”

“This wasn’t something you planned, Brother. As I’ve said before, you were conspired against,” Beks told him. “And they understand that it is their duty to support you, whether it is to provide insight as an advisor in the safety of your office or to lead an army to help you reclaim your throne.”

“Laurence, when you see them, you should have a long talk with them,” Lady Eleanor said as she squeezed his hand and leaned against him in a show of support. “It’ll also be the first time you’ve seen them in ages.”

Laurence closed his eyes. “I should’ve sent for them earlier. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were somewhat upset, in the least.”

“I would be upset.” Wrath’s little voice spoke up.

Laurence and Lady Eleanor looked at the child. Lady Eleanor’s face softened. “Would you be?”

Wrath didn’t look up from her book, but she nodded. “My sister didn’t talk to me or visit me for my whole life!” Beks tried not to shrink back with guilt and could only look at her sister would apology.

“So, you are angry with her?” Lady Eleanor asked gently.

Wrath’s lower lip jutted out. She lowered her eyes and didn’t answer.

“She thought Sister didn’t like her.” Thad spoke up from the bed and Beks turned to Wrath. Wrath’s face heated up and she dropped her book. She jumped off the chair and scrambled to the bed, diving into the pillows and covering her head.

“Did you think I didn’t like you?” Beks asked. Her chest tightened. If anyone in the room was a negligent sibling, it was her. She had reasons, but no excuses.

Thad shook his head. “Everyone said you were busy and couldn’t leave. I thought you were kidnapped for a while.”

Laurence looked to the side. “That’s not completely wrong....”

Beks rose from her seat and walked towards the bed. She touched her brother’s head as she passed and then took a seat on the edge of the bed, beside Wrath.

“Wrath-”

“I’m not here!” Beks could barely hear the muffled voice. She leaned forward and picked up the little girl and the pillow the child was clutching over her head. Wrath turned her head away, but didn’t struggle.

“I’m sorry.” Beks put her sister on her lap and wrapped her arms around her. She pressed her head against Wrath’s head. “I’m sorry for not being there and not talking to you enough.”

Wrath glared at the floor. Her eyes darted to Beks a few times, but avoided her gaze. She asked tentatively. “So...you like me?”

“No.”

“Beks!” Lady Eleanor gasped as Wrath let out a shocked hiss.

Beks chuckled and squeezed the little girl, nuzzling her head. “I love you. And I love Thad.”

“Thank you!” Thad said with a cheeky smile.

“Who do you love more?” Wrath asked with suspicious eyes. “Me or Brother Deo or Brother Thad?”

“I love all of you equally.”

“That’s not a real answer.” Wrath let out a small scoff. She paused and looked at Beks once more. “Are you going to stay with us?”

Beks took a deep breath. “Not forever.” She couldn’t give her sister an empty promise no matter how much it would make the child happy. “After Brother Laurence gets his throne back, I will need to do work.”

Wrath’s little fingers curled into her clothes. “Can’t you do work in the duchy?”

“My work is in Kadmium...and on Gurani Island.”

Wrath’s entire body seemed to sink with disappointment.

Laurence let out a small cough. “Wrath, don’t you like animals?” The child looked over Beks’ shoulders and eyed him as if he were trying to trick her. Laurence was not deterred. “When you are a little older, why don’t you join your sister on Gurani Island?”

Wrath pouted. “But Mommy and Daddy-”

“There are big animals on the island. And legendary beasts,” Thad said in a deadpan voice.

Wrath’s little face went blank. She looked up at her sister and blinked her big eyes. “Sister.”

“Yes?”

“Let me live with you, okay?”

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“Ten warships have been lost since the patrol expansion?” Luther narrowed his eyes as he sat on the throne, his sharp gaze boring into the tall, gray-haired man who was the Admiral of the Kadmus Navy. “Warships are escorted by cruisers. Do you mean to tell me that those cruisers are lost, as well?”

The Admiral remained standing upright and didn’t flinch at the anger and frustration in the king’s voice.

From the viewing balcony, Iris narrowed her eyes. Naval vessels were expensive and they had no money to replace them. They might as well have thrown gold bricks into the sea. No wonder Luther was angry.

“Your Majesty, an average of two cruisers have been lost with each warship. Our surviving crews blame the increased attacks on pirates,” the Admiral replied.

Luther only scowled. “Why are pirates suddenly attacking our naval vessels? There is little loot for them to acquire and the naval vessels are armed.”

“We suspect it is because our navy has sailed out of territorial waters, increasing the instances of pirate encounters.”

“Are they so skilled that they can sink a top class, fully armed warship flanked by armed cruisers?”

“Your Majesty, they have biha users and sea beasts aiding them. Our weapons cannot reach them.”

The court began to whisper. They were worried about attacks from the pirates and the effect of trade in the region. Merchants had been losing money steadily since Luther took the throne because of losses from pirate raids and overall decreased supply, and after a few months of being unable to address the pirate attacks and the floundering market, the merchants and their noble backers were becoming irritated.

Iris’ hands clenched at her sides. But what could they do? To address the pirate attacks meant adjusting the navy to practically escort ships, which would cost money. Money they didn’t have.

In addition, all the people Luther and his father sent to try to regulate the regional trade were incompetent. They returned with no solutions and made excuses, claiming the situation was out of their hands.

Absolutely useless. Iris clenched her jaw. Luther had taken power unconventionally and to gain support, he had agreed to various policy changes and lifted some regulations that would please the people siding with him, but it wasn’t enough.

“Your Majesty, it appears that in order to protect our merchant vessels, we must draw in the navy and have them return to patrols around the major sea trade routes.” Duke Seneca rose from his seat, his booming voice drawing the attention of everyone at court.

Iris glared at him from her viewing balcony. Duke Seneca, as well as the representatives of the other ducal houses had been against changing the naval patrol routes, as well as voiced their concerns about the cost of reassigning various battalions. They had argued that to do that so soon after his enthronement would alarm the populace at their borders and could raise suspicion from neighboring countries.

Not to mention that the battalions operated on set budgets that were just enough to pay for supply transports to particular locations. If they moved, their supplies would need to be transported elsewhere. That was more money spent.

Stil, Iris had supported Luther and the Third Consort, as well as their other advisors with the thought that it wouldn’t make Kadmus’ military look complacent. It was supposed to show that they were ready to defend and protect their new king during his most vulnerable early years. It was a show of power and confidence.

Iris recalled that in her previous life, the Kadmus legions had been moved during King Laurence’s reign, so there wasn’t anything against doing so.

In addition, she wanted them to keep an eye on the Carolines. The fact that they were still alive and she didn’t know where they were made her skin crawl. She couldn’t help but suspect that they were plotting to return, exile marking or not.

Iris stifled her trembling frustration at the thought. She listened to the court below argue about the navy before Luther decided that for the sake of the kingdom’s economic well-being and the safety of their sailors, the Kadmus navy that had spread far beyond their territorial waters were to be assigned to guard the five busiest sea trade routes.

There were few who disagreed, and in fact, several courtiers looked pleased with the order, including the Admiral.

After another hour, court was adjourned. Iris rose from her seat and left the viewing balcony. Courtiers would crowd Luther once court ended. Iris had resorted to waiting in the small garden outside of Luther’s study until he returned. At this time, most the guards that would usually be in that area of the Gilded Palace were elsewhere, waiting to guard Luther.

She stepped out into the hall and one of her attendants fell into step behind her.

“Your Eminence, you have a letter from the Great Temple.”

Iris narrowed her eyes. She’d given her last great prophecy and it affected the largest country on the continent. The moment it was announced, there was bound to be push back from Langshe, especially since Langshe was much more secular.

“Give me the letter,” she said as she reached the garden. Her attendant bowed her head and reached into her robes to take out a small scroll. Iris walked further into the garden before pulling apart the scroll.

The carefully written Esuser met her eyes and she stopped pacing. Her lips pulled into a small frown. While there was praise in the scroll for her prophecy and that there had yet to be any response of Langshe, the rating of the prophecy wasn’t as high as she thought it would be.

Ratings were the levels of importance. Usually, the rating for the death of a reigning monarch, particularly from a strong kingdom, would be held in high regard. When she predicted the death of the late Queen of Kadmus, the Temple had considered it important and increased the clergy in Kadmus.

The importance of the last Great Oracle’s prophecy of the Daughter with Dawn in her Hair had also been considered important. It was to the point that the Temple actively assisted in the search for the newborn baby.

The death of the Empress of Langshe would change the political landscape of Langshe, the strongest kingdom on the continent. Wouldn’t it give the Temple an opportunity to increase its visibility to its people during the time of transition?

“In a fight for the throne, civilians will suffer,” Iris said in a low voice. “They are more likely to accept the Temple when their government offers them nothing. Why isn’t the Temple rating the importance of the prophecy so low?”

“Your Eminence, it may be because Langshe has historically distanced itself from the Temple. The current Empress and her family do practice Temple ceremonies during important events,” her attendant told her.

Iris remembered this. She stared at the scroll and then rolled it up. She was disappointed that her prophecy didn’t carry as much weight and thus increased her importance, but there had yet to be any other woman who had made as accurate prophecies as she had.

As for Langshe, what was more important to her was how Luther would react.

After notifying the Temple of her prophecy, she told Luther about the impending death and that she saw two close family members fighting over the throne. While she was trying to figure out how to convince him to side with the Empress’ brother, the Third Consort had done the job for her.

“The Crown Prince was close to the First, Second, and Third Prince. He is not likely to support your rule and if he doesn’t support your rule, the empire’s policies relating to Kadmus will follow,” the Third Consort had told Luther. “We should try to form a good relationship with the Empress’ brother. After all, he is older and more experienced, as well as having a backing in Langshe’s Imperial Court.”

As always, Luther listened to his father. It was an aspect of him that Iris often grew annoyed with, but in this case, she was pleased that the Third Consort spoke up.

“Iris.” She heard her name and turned around, her face filling with warmth as she saw the young man approach her with gentle eyes and a smile. He extended his arms and she reached forward to grasp them.

“Is court over?”

“For the most part. Everyone always has more to say,” Luther said with a slight laugh. “Have you waited long?”

“No, not long at all. I just received notification from the Temple that they recorded my last prophecy.” She lifted the coiled scroll, but didn’t unfurl it so he could read. However, just seeing it was enough for Luther to trust her words.

He let out a regretful sigh. “It’s a shame that it’s such a prophecy. I’m sure Langshe didn’t want to know. Before your prophecy, news of Empress Saran’s illness was well kept. There are suspicions that the court was going to move to the next palace, but leave the Empress to recuperate in order to keep the populace calm.”

“She will pass soon, and I fear when it does, Langshe will face a civil war,” Iris replied with pity on her face. Luther nodded.

“I’ve informed my advisors that we will support Prince Tarkan in his bid for the throne,” Luther told her. “A messenger will reach the Summer Palace in a month’s time.”

Iris quelled her excitement. “That’s good!”

“However, we must be ready. If we are to make an ally of Prince Tarkan, we need to be ready to send him support to show our sincerity,” Luther told her. “I’ve read that this is how it is done in Langshe and Duke Seneca had advised the same.”

She tried not to show her displeasure. The royal treasury was lacking as it was and there were various goods scarcities all over the kingdom. Where would they have resources to support a foreign ruler fighting for the throne?

“What would we need to send him?”

“I don’t know, but it may not be physical resources. There will likely be more trade. He may even exile political enemies in our direction. In any case, as Father has said, making an ally of Prince Tarkan is in our best interest. Prince Tarkan was a military leader. His nephew, the Crown Prince, is a scholar.”

Iris nodded. As long as Prince Tarkan didn’t ask for gold or other valuable metals, she could accept it. “Once he becomes Emperor, you will have a strong ally and we can increase trade from Langshe.”

Luther nodded and squeezed her hand. “Once I announce it to the court, I’m sure the frustration will ease with new opportunities and a connection to Langshe.”

“Speaking of connection, what about the Second and Third Prince? They are cousins to the Crown Prince. We have yet to find their whereabouts,” Iris said. She wanted to remind him that they were a problem if they weren’t found.

Luther shook his head with disappointment. “Nearly the entire Southern Legion is searching the location where they disappeared and they can’t find either of them.”

Iris fought the urge to shudder. It had been almost a year, and they still couldn’t find those princes. They were a liability to both Luther and the Temple. It was as if the two disappeared.

“What about the Second Prince’s battalion?”

Luther shook his head once more. “They’ve vanished. I even had the Western Legions send their records officials to question the families of the higher ranked officers, but either there was no record of beneficiaries that they could reference or those they could are missing.”

Her brows shot up. That was too much of a coincidence. “All of them?”

“The higher ranked officers only.” Luther frowned. “They said they do not have the capacity to do more.” He grit his teeth. “However, I know that it’s only because I went against their recommendations and relocated them and their routes.”

“They dare do this to the king?” Iris’ delicate brows rose with shock. “How dare they!”

“They will remain relocated,” Luther muttered under his breath. “As for my brother’s battalion, I suspect that they scattered when my brother disappeared. Perhaps he didn’t want them to follow him when he was searching for the Third Prince.”

“Luther....” Iris moved closer to him and grasped his arm, pulling against her body and squeezing it, as if in fear. Her voice trembled. “I am worried. What if they suddenly appear and demand that you give them the throne? After all, you are the youngest of the late Queen’s sons. Wouldn’t the Second or Third Prince have a greater claim?”

She felt Luther tense against her for a moment. His eyes narrowed. “That won’t happen.”

Her heart swelled with joy as soon as she heard his words. Luther had always held his brothers in high regard. In the past, he wouldn’t dare do anything to anger them. Now, he wasn’t willing to give up the crown. Iris took a deep breath to calm her excitement.

“Are you certain?”

“I am the king now. So much has happened since my mother died. The kingdom can’t go through more internal strife. Kadmus has a king and the priority now should be to stabilize my rule. If my rule is stable, then my people won’t suffer.” Luther spoke like a real king and Iris’ eyes filled with pride.

This was what she wanted to see.

In her past life, Luther had been downtrodden towards the end. His own brothers turned on him for a woman, striping him of his title and forcing him out. All Luther had wanted to do was help his kingdom.

Now, he could do so.

And this time, she could support him at his side as the rightful queen.