Page 32 of Three Scorched Kingdoms

He sits forward and quickly tells her everything that happened at the meeting. I remain at the window, staring out while his words slice through me all over again.

“By the goddess, Aries. I am sorry,” my mother says when he’s done.

I don’t bother to turn around before answering, “We should be fighting a war, not each other.”

“You’re right,” she says. “They are blinded by their desire for power. When this is over, you must dismiss them all. Appoint an entirely new membership?—”

I turn to her. “You’re forgetting that I have to win this war first. Without the benefit of the throne’s magic.”

“It’s not ideal,” Leo says. “But it can be done.”

I glare at them both. “You know allowing me to ascend the throne as a mated dragon king would strengthen the goddess’ magic. We could wipe out the orcs with little effort or risk to our soldiers.” No one contradicts me. “They are endangering the lives of our people to preserve their own stolen power. It’s disgraceful.”

“We agree, Aries,” Leo says pointedly. “We’re on your side here. Mom didn’t just hand them the keys to the kingdom willingly. They did the same thing to her that they’re doing to you. But we won’t let them.”

I exhale as his words hit home. He’s right. My mother isn’t to blame. And we won’t get anywhere arguing between us.

“I should have just challenged them all to a fight and been done with it,” I say darkly.

“The people will learn the truth,” my mother says. “And they will see your temperance. Your patience. They will know that you’ve won this war by your brains and your own two hands. And they will love you even more for it.”

“Mom’s right,” Leo says. “Take your anger out on the orcs, and let the council’s own actions destroy them in the end. It’s the better move politically.”

My brow lifts at that. “Since when do you care about politics?”

He shrugs. “Since it helps you win the throne and gives me back my life as a second-born prince.”

I shake my head. He’s right, though. It is a better move. Just not as satisfying for my dragon at the current moment.

“Fine,” I say at last. “But the people will know what the council’s done.”

“Absolutely,” Leo agrees.

“And Paige,” I add. “She needs to be kept as far from the council as possible until this is over. I don’t want her exposed to their petty judgment and rejection of her.”

“Consider it done,” Leo says.

“Paige should be introduced to the people,” my mother says. “They need to know her, to see how deeply she cares. Once they do, they will love and accept her when the time comes. It won’t matter what the council says.”

I nod, my thoughts and plans beginning to form as I consider various strategies for this war. It’ll need to be a blend between combat and publicity, which only makes it that much more difficult. But Leo’s right. It can be done.

And then I’ll have my throne back, giving me the authority to toss the council out on their pompous asses—starting with Esma.

“I know that look,” Leo says. “You’re already strategizing.”

“I am considering a few ideas,” I say slowly.

He stands. “Where do we start? Tell me what I can do.”

I blink, glancing around the confining walls. “I need to fly,” I say.

“So, let’s fly,” Leo says.

“Are you sure that’s wise?” my mother asks nervously. “What if you’re spotted by the horde?”

I cross to where she stands and press a quick kiss to her forehead so she knows I’m not angry with her anymore. “Father trained us well,” I say as gently as I can. “We’ll be careful. But this is something I need to do if I’m going to lead the army.”

She nods. “You’re right. And Aries? I’m sorry.”

---