Chapter 60

The map Thea and Herkuan were studying had notes included on the side. Herkuan had adopted the task of estimating how many ships Vivarre possessed, and the threat they posed to Ios. They knew that Vivarre possessed a considerable number of ships. Their tiny raiding ships would be outmatched by such powerful vessels, and so they had ordered warships be built as quickly as possible

“We’ll need to reach out and conquer some islands closer to Vivarre,” Herkuan said. “If we can control them, then we will at least have forces at sea between them and us.”

Thea studied the map. “Yes, having a place to land and rest would also be beneficial for our sailors.”

“Not just that, but we’ll have more space to store weapons and food.”

“I imagine they will be waiting for us there.”

“Will they?” He shook his head. “I’m not certain they would send out their forces before their diplomats arrive to ‘negotiate’ with us.”