Page 46 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

Braden defended the council. “It is not for lack of searching, your majesty.”

“It has been weeks,” she reminded firmly.

“And whoever is behind this is covering his tracks well,” Bradan said.

“Uncover them,” she commanded.

Bradan paused to take a breath, then nodded. “Aye, Your Majesty.”

Wilford leaned back in his chair. “You're assuming there is someone behind it.”

Eudora turned to him. “You don't?”

“I think there probably is. But we shouldn't ignore the possibility that one foolish remark found fertile ground and grew without anyone tending it.”

Eudora disagreed. “Five villages refusing men for training isn't a foolish remark.”

“Nay. But neither is it rebellion.”

“Not yet,” Bradan said.

Wilford's gaze shifted to him.

That single word settled heavily over the table.

Eudora rose.

The others immediately followed.

Eudora’s chin went up just a bit. “I will not give whoever started this the one thing they clearly want.”

“And what is that?” Bradan asked.

“For me to appear afraid and act foolish.” She looked around the table. “Training will continue. Taxes will be collected. Trade will continue through our ports, and every person who comes before me will see the same queen sitting on the throne who was sitting there before these whispers began.”

Wilford studied her. “And while you're sitting there?”

“The search for this culprit will continue in earnest, and I will have answers.” Eudora met the eyes of every council member there. “Do not fail me.”

She headed for the door.

Wilford fell into step beside her. “You still have petitions to hear.”

“I know.”

“There are quite a few.”

Eudora stopped and looked at him. “How many?”

Wilford's expression was entirely too innocent. “Quite a few.”

Eudora sighed and continued walking. Perhaps waiting for three legendary warriors wasn't going to be the most trying part of her day after all.

Chapter Fourteen

Legion, Torden, Creagan & the Queen

Creagan had been waiting nearly an hour for his turn to speak with the queen. He wasn't particularly bothered by it. However⁠—