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

“Marcus! What a joy it is to finally see you.”


A hush fell over the room as heads turned to see the infamous nephew of their beloved consul. Marcus cleared his throat and tried to compose himself in view of the distinguished lords and ladies. “Thank you for inviting me to your home.”


Lucius waved at a nearby chair. “Please, sit down.”


The rest of the guests returned to their conversations, only a few curious eyes remaining on him, most of them women. Marcus paid them no heed, nor did he seem too invested in the lavish plate of beef and pork, with a mixture of figs, honey, and apples on the side. His attention was completely consumed by his uncle, who spoke amicably to the man sitting to his right, who Marcus assumed was the other consul, Garus. He intended to find out if his suspicions were correct.


Chapter 16