Page 11 of The Court of Truth

“So, the economy,” I start, drowning in the silence that follows as we each stare at one another. Arlo included.

“It looks like I’ve got my first task at hand then,” Kryll offers, and I nod, holding back the sigh that threatens to escape my lips. Yet another thing we haven’t been taught, and a swirling in my gut tells me it has nothing to do with the fact that the professors just hadn’t gotten around to it yet. I’m leaning far more toward the fact that The Council ensured the curriculum was lacking because they truly didn’t believe someone would come into power.

Fuckers.

“Please, that would be great,” I agree, nodding at my dragon.

“We’re going to want detailed reports on how businesses stand, not just in the City of Harrows but in all of the towns that make up the Floodborn Kingdom. Along with focusing on the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services that meets the needs of not just us, but the people themselves,” Arlo explains, and Kryll nods.

“Once we’re done here, I’ll dive in.”

“Perfect, start at The Council’s office. I’m sure the most up-to-date documents are there. I hope at least,” Arlo rambles, and my stomach clenches at the thought of one of my men stepping into that damn place. Even though most of them are dead now, at our hands no less, I still don’t get the best vibe from it.

“I can come with you,” Beau adds, easing the tension growing in my chest without realizing. “I can figure out the situation with the soldiers and confirm information with Raiden from there.”

“On the topic of soldiers, do we know where we’re at with safety?” Arlo asks, directing us through the meeting, and I shake my head.

Raiden, however, leans forward in his seat. “We know The Council seemed to control both the good and bad parts of the kingdom. We know the frenzied vampires were controlled by the damn vampires, so there has to be a way for me to get to the bottom of that. We need to communicate with the soldiers, assess how reliable they are or if their allegiance remains with The Council, and on top of all that, we need to figure out what we’re going to do with that witch, Clementine,” he grunts, lacing his fingers together on the table.

“Yes to all of that,” I blurt, impressed that he’s seeing everything from all angles and considering problems in advance of them actually happening. How non-vampire of him.

“That sounds like an excellent plan because we need to gather a strong understanding of who our allies and enemies are. Not just personally, but for the kingdom as well. I think it’s safe to say that our enemies remain as Clementine, her henchman, Fairbourne, Orenda, who’s locked up in the cellar at the old council building, and whoever controls the frenzied vampires,” he reels off, making me gulp at the ever-growing list of shit that doesn’t work in our favor.

“And our allies?” Brody questions, not acknowledging the mention of his father’s name on the enemies list, but I see the flash of pain in his eyes before he blinks it away. He’s been at odds with his father for a long time, but it can’t make it any easier to know he’s against us and everything we stand for. Especially not on this scale.

“Our allies are…” Flora tries to respond, but glances around the table, coming up blank.

Kryll clears his throat, drawing my pleading gaze to his as I will him to give me someone. “My mother will always be an ally, but she won’t impede upon Floodborn Kingdom’s affairs. We also have to remember that Addi’s father is now with us, and his wisdom will be paramount.”

I nod, eager to understand what his comment about his mother means, but now isn’t the time to get distracted, so I pocket the question for another time.

“We also have the people,” Brody points out. “We have to remember they voted for you. They see what we see and they believe you can make a difference to the kingdom. They may not come with a title of stature, but they come in numbers. I will also begin discussing further details with the mages once we’re done. I don’t know how some will feel with me taking my father’s role, but I know there are allies among them.”

I nod vigorously, his words sending strength through my bones as he reminds me why I’m here, and it’s exactly what I needed.

“Anything else?” Raiden asks, tilting his head at Arlo, who nods in response.

“The final details we must discuss are regarding the plans for relocation.”

My bones stiffen at the reminder and I can sense cautious eyes looking my way. My gut twists at the absence of Cassian more than ever as I remember who was there to support me when I was last at the castle, drowning in memories I hadn't recalled for so long.

Clearing my throat, I sit tall in my seat and jut my chin out, basking in the confidence I wish was true. “What are the usual plans for relocating?” I ask, completely committed to getting it over and done with now. Arlo smiles, but it wobbles at the end, confirming there’s something I’m still missing. “What?”

“Who do you want to relocate with you?” he asks, and I frown. That’s not as bad as I thought it was going to be.

“Everyone,” I confirm, glancing around the table. “Everyone here at least. My father and Nora too. The palace is huge, and if we can have the inner circle all stationed together I think it will make a huge difference. Not just to our mentality but to our ability to provide the strength our kingdom needs.”

“Is that okay with everyone?” Arlo asks, eyes roaming over everyone at the table. They all nod, Beau and Flora included. It’s more than silently assumed that I won’t separate from the guys now, but seeing three of them agree warms my heart and fills me with another wave of strength I didn’t know I needed.

Trying not to dwell on the fact that Cassian isn’t here to nod along with them, I turn my attention back to Arlo. “Anything else we need to discuss or are we relocating this afternoon?” I ask, pushing back from the table and rising to my feet.

I probably should have changed like he originally mentioned, but I was too focused on the task. Now, as I stand in an oversized tee that isn’t mine with only a pair of boxers underneath, I understand my error. I can’t be this casual when we move, I have to be present and mindful of my role and what that looks like. Clothing and all.

“We can relocate this afternoon, just as soon as you’ve addressed the kingdom.”

8

CASSIAN

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