Chapter 87: Queens Motive

Rihannan shook her head in a hurry.

There was a misunderstanding.

The Queen knows nothing of their past life.

Ive no choice but to return to Arundell. Its definitely not what Her Majesty thinks, Rihannan said.

The Queen smiled. That is because you dont know Igor yet. He possesses the blood of Chrichton. He has a strong desire and obsession to pursue his own goals. Hell never do anything he does not want to do. If he truly had no inkling feelings for you, he would not marry you. It is in his nature of Chrichton blood.

The Queen said similar words to her before. She thought it was mere empty words said to comfort her once, but now she knew it to be the opposite.

I had thoughts of matching you with Igor from the beginning, so I purposely asked Anastasia to bring you to the palace with hopes that you and Igor would fit in together. Was it because of you that his clothes were torn and dirty during your first meeting? He did something for you, right?

Rihannan flinched and covered her gaping mouth. You already knew then?

Yes. To be honest, I was surprised. Igor rarely showed interest in others. You probably imprinted a deep image in his heart and soul. Whenever you came to the palace, Igor always wore a sour look and wanted nothing more than to escape. But I knew that it was merely a front. Igors a master at hiding. Basil could never find him unless he wanted to be found. But whenever your presence was around in the palace, Igor was there close to you.

The Queen wore a fleeting smile across her lips.

Words left Rihannans mouth at the sudden revelation.

And look at you. Youve grown up, Rihannan, and so has my son. I never expected him to attack Chrichton in that manner.

Yes. And this was the end result, Rihannan said.

Its good for now. Im sure hes proud to have a defeated kingdom kneel before him, but I think its shortsighted. Would Chrichton dare to maintain a steady and proper relationship like before? Its already good that things did not turn out worse. The Queens voice dropped. Though Arundell won the war against Chrichton, she did not look merry, but upset.

Rihannan pondered.

She had always wondered about the Queens choices regarding Chrichton. The Queen was wise and ever-knowing but whenever it came to Chrichton, her decisions were nothing but incomprehensible. She confronted the Toulouse Empire confidently but always half-drawn when it came to Chrichton.

Rihannan thought it lied in the foundational support from the neighboring kingdom, but long after she gained enough power, the Queen would not let go of her connection with Chrichton and thus triggered a confrontation with Igor.

Your Majesty, do you want Arundell to be subjugated to Chrichton? Rihannan asked.

It would be unthinkable of her to ask that sort of question in the past. Even she surprised herself.

The Queen smiled subtly. What do you think? Rihannan, do I look like the type who would sell the kingdom for my own benefit?

Rihannan looked at the Queen momentarily. She shook her head. No. I dont think so. If you were that sort of person, you would have never resigned during the civil war. I heard from rumors that it was you who offered the contractual agreement first because you could no longer bear to see the kingdoms devastation. I dont think youre the kind that would allow Arundell to fall.

The Queen smiled. Yes.

I do not know your thoughts, Your Majesty, but I think the direction Igor is pursuing is right. Chrichton had plans to expand their oceanic influence, fearing the Toulouse Empire would sabotage all land routes. Arundell and Chrichton were allies, but Chrichton would be unwilling to give up the trade routes they secured. Igors plans would only strengthen Arundells riches.

Rihannan had much to say about Igor, but when it came to the well-being of Arundell, he was a person she could trust. If only he was a tyrant despising him would be easier.

Yes. Youre right. You think I dont know that, Rihannan? The Queen looked at the window. A dreamy look crossed her face. I had big dreams for this kingdom, dreams that no one would ever dream of. Yeah theres nothing more to hide now

A small sigh escaped her lips as she looked into Rihannans blue eyes.