Chapter 74: The Greed That Lives Again
Vexena leans back in her throne, head resting against her curled fingers, a long, irritated groan slipping from her lips.
"I am not in the mood for demon-land politics," she mutters. "Keeping this place from tearing itself apart is stressful enough."
Eris, standing tall and calm beside the throne, bows slightly. "Forgive me, my Queen, but there are new reports. Lady Sylareth has returned."
Maribelle blinks from her nearby velvet chair. "Returned? As in, she’s not dead anymore?"
Eris nods grimly. "Not only alive, but active. She’s calling her old retainers and contracting infamous mercenaries from across the Demon Lands."
Maribelle tilts her head. "A revolt?"
"No," Eris says firmly. "She wouldn’t dare. Even Sylareth knows revolt against the Queen is suicide. You could crush the Demon Lands in a day if you wanted."
"I could," Vexena sighs, brushing invisible dust from her gown. "But then I’d have to rule a smoking crater. What’s she after this time?"
"She hasn’t said. But she’s gathering power. Rapidly."
Virelle peeks over the edge of the throne from her perch beside her mother. "Ooooh. Are the nobles being naughty again? I’d love to go punch them until they behave."
Vexena chuckles, gently petting her daughter’s pink curls. "Maybe. If there’s fighting, I’ll make sure you get your moment to shine."