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

“That was incredible!” Thea exclaimed as she rushed over to her and hugged her. Driada’s skin was damp with sweat, and yet it didn’t detract from her beauty. She was still alight with mirth from the god’s visit.


“And youwere incredible, my queen,” Driada replied.


Teuta was immediately aware of their bodies pressing together, and the way that Driada looked at her mouth. She stepped away, her face burning. “Thank you.”


Thea’s breath came short, and she looked around to see if anyone had noticed them embracing—but everyone seemed to be distracted by the shadow of Zeir’s eagle still circling above them. Thea paused on the sight of Demetrius and Herkuan, who were grinning and patting each other’s shoulders enthusiastically. A coldness descended upon her. She gripped Driada’s shoulder tightly. “Where is Marcus?”


Driada tore herself away and looked about them wildly. “He’s gone!”


Chapter 47