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 motioned to the man. “Queen Thea, may I introduce Cattedius of the Ardians.”


“The Unrightful Queen makes her entrance,” Cattedius declared. “I thought you would not be brave enough to greet us yourself.”


“My reluctance to speak with you has nothing to do with cowardice,” Thea said calmly, despite the rising anger within her breast. She tamed her spirit for the sake of diplomacy. Remember what Herkuan said: these men could be valuable to you in the future. Do not cut all your ties with them in the first meeting. “Surely you understand that I must tend first to those loyal to me.”


“Loyalty,” he spat. “Is that your word for slavery? Your tribe has kept the Tolensi under your heel for centuries.”


“Are we here to debate the rule of my serfs, or to resolve the conflict between you both?” Thea did not wait for his answer. “I presume Marcus has spoken to you about how unwise it would be to strike out against my kingdom and those it protects.”


Chapter 46