“There is general dissension among many fae in the capital.” He paused. “Intel suggests an uprising from the resistance. It appears they are actively recruiting and growing their campaign.”
I hummed and took a large gulp from my glass, letting the heat of the sweet liquid coat my tongue.
“The group has changed its tactics. Last night, they damaged businesses in the capital.”
“To what extent?”
He let out a slow exhale. “Alleys and buildings marked in paint, and windows broken with notes written on stones.”
Thrumming my fingers against the glass, I waited for him to continue, but he didn’t. “What do the notes say, Vexley?”
“The resistance has defiled your name, sir. Very publicly.”
With my father nearly dead and the resistance’s flagrant contempt, my rule could be at risk. My stomach twisted. We’d already suffered through an uprising centuries ago and barely held onto our reign; I wasn’t about to let insurgents take my crown.
“We have people working to paint over the writings and repair the windows. For free, of course. We don’t want the good people of Rivale to be held financially responsible for the actions of the group.” He ran a hand through his hair. “We’re using all our resources to find those responsible.”
I nodded. “Yes, increase patrols and offer rewards. Whoever exposes these cowards should be compensated greatly.”
The door opened and Leanna strode in, taking up the seat beside me. “I didn’t realize we were holding a meeting, gentlemen. My invitation must have gotten lost,” she purred.
“Where are you pulling from in order to increase patrols?” I ignored Leanna and directed my question to the captain.
“We are reducing each outpost along the coastline by one, leaving two to a shift. Those reassigned will patrol on horseback, they’ll cover more ground that way. The buildings were targeted in the night hours, so we are focusing our efforts during that time,” he finished.
“Has the vandalism spread to the surrounding areas?”
“It appears the conflict remains only in the capital, though there are plenty of resistance members in the outer areas as well. We are actively monitoring their activity.”
I drained my glass and gestured for a refill. “Very well. I expect to be updated both at sunrise and sunset until further notice.”
“Yes, Your Highness.” He moved to stand.
“Perhaps it’s time you mingled among the people, Brother?” Leanna suggested. “If you are seeing this much pushback, they are clearly feeling disconnected. Go meet them where they are, both physically and in opinion.”
The idea wasn’t a bad one. In fact, the strategy might help solidify my position. I was only irritated that I hadn’t thought of it first. I needed to get a hold of the public opinion before it spiraled out of my control because once one group united publicly, others might follow.
“While I understand how that may seem like a good idea, the situation is volatile and I cannot guarantee your safety,” Vexley warned. “We are still gathering information about their next move.”
I motioned with a hand for him to stop. “There’s no need for concern. I can keep myself safe without the assistance of others, I guarantee you that.”
“You should travel on horseback to greet the fae. If you arrive in a gilded carriage, it will be far too intimidating for the people to approach,” she said.
“Yes, I shall walk among the people. Show them there is no reason to challenge my rule.” I gulped down the full glass of wine. “I am the rightful heir and will bring strength to this kingdom.”
Leanna’s lips pursed while Vexley nodded.
“I have yet to meet Maris’s family—she shall make the introduction and we will visit the people along the way.” I relaxed as my plan fell into place. “Her father will be a good connection.”
“Maris?” Leanna sneered.
“Her father holds power of opinion over the commoners.They’re considerably wealthy and have a formidable voice,” I said. “Make plans for the meeting. Also, arrange a gathering and invite a dozen lords and ladies from the area. Secure the most influential attendees. I need to put a stop to this.”
13
AUDRYN
With Fisher at Grant Castle and the others busy, boredom had reached its crescendo as I sat with the clay pot of gravel in the common room. I’d used the last few days to focus my attention on the task, but had yet to find success. By the time evening rolled around, I lay sprawled across the floor, frustrated and tired.
