“I’ve failed,” said Charlaine as she stared out the window, watching the ships in the bay. “I came here to secure the Royal Army’s assistance, and now I’ve thrown away any chance we had of their help.”
“Don’t be so certain,” replied Marlena. “I’m sure some of the barons still wish to fight for their country.”
“Fight or sacrifice? We’re badly outnumbered, even with the prospect of help from the Royal Army. Without them, it’s hopeless.”
A familiar voice came from the door. “All is not lost.”
Charlaine wheeled around. “Danica! Good to see you again, old friend.”
“Old? That’s the first time I’ve ever been called that.” The admiral’s laughter did nothing to ease the tension in the room. “Why the glum tone? Did somebody die?”
“Only our hopes of beating the empire.”
“Care to explain?”
“It
