The Midgard Legion was a gamble, Solveig knew. She didn’t want to set off any alarms that would alert Ragnvald. Though he’d given no word of his attendance, if the King of Hel appeared at the ball, the last thing she wanted was for him to get a whiff of their plans.
Moving five legions around the world without their enemies noticing required some finesse. The queens had given her an idea and she was stewing over the possibilities. She had to reassess at the ball tonightbefore voicing her intentions. Many of her plans hinged on how many allies they had.
Solveig turned to Latham, who finally looked at her. “I cannot trust you.”
“I know,” he whispered, surprising her with his sincerity.
“This is not the right post for you.”
His nostrils flared with anger. “Where would you have me?”
“I don’t know, Latham. I can’t let you out of my sight, but I also want you nowhere near me.”
Commander Hagan said nothing as he watched with confusion.
“I think Vanaheim would be best,” Solveig said quietly.
Latham’s eyes snapped up to meet hers. “Vanaheim?”
“We need to clean up your mess.” Solveig put up a hand to stop him from interrupting. “I know it was not just your doing, but you left the door wide open for snakes to worm their way in.”
“And what of Laeknir? Whose fault is that?” he hissed.
“It is mine,” Solveig said solemnly. “I too must sacrifice to make things right.”
“What am I to do in Vanaheim?”
“You will take a battalion with you and inspect the chasm. I want to know everything we possibly can. How far does it reach? Where does it end? Does it span the entire realm? As you search, you are to aid each Vanir settlement affected by the rift. We’ll be sending missives to all cities, alerting them to expect you. You will take half of each battalion you come across and set up camp in the south before awaiting further orders.”
“You’re banishing me?”
“I’m giving you the honour of serving your own people. I know how much you love Vanaheim, Latham. Be grateful.”
Solveig stood and the males followed suit. “Commander Hagan, as we discussed, your legion will need to make themselves invisible for the ball tonight. Asgard needs to appear weak.”
“Yes, General, my soldiers are preparing to get into position as we speak.”
“Your soldiers are playing dice games and drinking too much. They’ve become comfortable.”
“Yes, General.”
Solveig stepped out of the building and the commander followed, with Latham on their heels. The males stood back as Solveig stalked over to one of the barracks and kicked the door in. The loud chatter and revelry quieted immediately.
“If your commander gives you an order, you follow it immediately. And if your general has to come in and repeat that order, you have failed in your duty.” She levelled them with a glare. “If you are not out of this hut in two minutes, I will personally toss you into a pit where you will fight each other to the death. Any survivors will be dishonourably discharged, and I will find better soldiers who know how to take orders to fill your worthless places. Now get to your posts.” She turned on her heel and walked out with a smile on her face.
“I think some of them peed themselves,” Hagan whispered.
“Oh gods I hope so.”
“You have such a way with words, General.” Hagan laughed.
“It’s taken decades of practice.” Solveig smiled. “Now, to your position, Commander. I would hate to have to replace you as well.”
With a laden look at Latham, she turned back towards the palace, ready to take on the ball.
Westleystoodinthegrand ballroom after making his entrance.
Like most balls, royals and leaders of each realm entered one group at a time, taking the time to show off in the spotlight. Solveig liked to call the Fae peacocks, but really, the term suited all royals.
