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

“What kind of sacrifice does Penelopia like?” Helle asked, her voice trembling.


Marcus looked up from where he was crouching next to the candles, shadowing his face for dramatic effect. “Blood.” The lady gasped, and Demetrius stepped in front of her protectively, as if Marcus were about to slit her throat. He snorted. “Don’t be absurd. I don’t mean yourblood.” He reached for a bowl of crimson liquid sitting near a crumpled cloak. “I’ve already procured some for this offering.”


Upon seeing the blood, Helle sucked in a breath and made her way over to him. Marcus could see the fear in her withdrawn expression, and yet she did not falter from the task at hand. “How must we worship her, then? Do I…drink it?”


“No!” Marcus exclaimed and took her hand. “You need only dip your fingers within.”


Chapter 42