Most people in Ios know better than to challenge Vivarre and its powerful navy. Queen Thea, however, is not afraid to challenge anyone who gets in her way. For years, her kingdom has been supported by pirates. They sail the Iosian sea and raid any ship they come across for resources.<br><br>When Thea takes the throne she is challenged by enemies and allies alike. Though women can be warriors, they can never be true rulers. She hopes to change that belief, but she cannot do it alone. Driada is the only female pirate enlisted in Ios. She has served her kingdom faithfully for years, her dedication inspired by her father’s work on the royal ships. When she sees injustices being done against innocent people, she cannot simply sit idle while they suffer.<br><br>When these two bold, powerful women meet, it is obvious that they must form an alliance to keep Ios safe. But this alliance quickly shifts from being solely a political move, to one of the heart. Thea is forced to decide which path will lead to victory -- fighting Vivarre without divine help or betraying her promise to never bow down to the gods ever again.

Thea

“At least we have his account of the battle with the Nokari,” Herkuan said, motioning toward the parchment. “This will certainly be helpful for our records…and for the bards, so they might sing of his glory.”


Thea pulled out a chair and took a seat. Herkuan followed suit. “Arkon put so much effort into uniting the tribes of Ios and leading them into battle. Now that responsibility falls upon my shoulders. How will I convince them to pay tribute to me, as the new regent?”


Herkuan hummed lowly under his breath and knitted his brow. “I understand your concern, my queen. It won’t be easy to pick up where the king left off in the discussions of peace between the tribes.” He met her eyes with a hesitant smile. “But it won’t be impossible, either. All your council will be here to assist you. Besides, now is not the time to worry about the politics of the realm. There are rituals we must observe…for the sake of the dead.”


Chapter 4