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

They landed on a small beach. Driada patted the blade at her side instinctively, as she did whenever disembarking the ship. It became a ritual ever since it had been left behind.


Most of the men would be remaining on the ship, to either warn them of approaching Vivarrian civilians or guards, and to also protect their boats. Driada would be among those leaving to inspect the island. They rested their oars gently to the benches and slipped out of the boat. Their steps were so light, they barely seemed to touch the ground.


Chapter 10