Feeling despicable, Drak took refuge in saying, “The decision must rest with the Presidio and the emperor.”
“Ever since he fell through the covering of my palanquin, Drak, I have felt an affection for your father.”
That wasn’t quite as Drak had heard the story from his mother; he let it pass without comment. Lushfymi was a formidable woman, a queen acting perfectly within her rights, and a force of personality and character able to deal with any and every aspect of running Vallia as empress.
Lushfymi, conscious of the power she held over Drak and yet frustratingly aware that the conclusion for which she hungered appeared as far away as ever, lay back on her pillows. She smiled, a wan yet brave little smile. She knew she was beautiful, not just because everyone told her so but because sh
