THE BLOOD ROYALS Book 2: Long Live The Queen!

Chapter Sixteen: Unfinished Business

Carperia
Queen Mother's POV
I'm back to the drawing board.

Cathan and I agree Reli should settled down. We need an heir. When we thought he was dead, that is when it hit us that if anything happens to him, Cathan may need to father a child. By the time that child is groomed, it will be too much of a strain for the monarchy especially if something was to happen to Cathan.

Reli never liked any of the selected candidates. He never even gave them a chance. I need a fresh batch of young women. I'm sure he will understand that marrying for love isn't much of an option because we don't have time for that. His father assures me Reli's plate is overflowing with responsibility. He has taken over the military as well as the hunt for the rebels. Cathan has retained the administrative duties. He wants Reli to take on the responsibility of stabilizing this kingdom.

I'm worried because not long ago he was such a pacifist! Will he be able to make the tough decisions his predecessors have made through the year? Can a young man like him take reins over Generals and Admirals older than him and with more experience? I'm deeply worried but my energy and focus should be on what he has no time to do. To find a bride.

It's funny how it now makes sense. What Dargan did, the quick choice to marry me and the quick wedding all makes sense. He was in a panicked state. He was the last of the House of Kaelan and he was in a panic.

"Your majesty," an unfamiliar man came into the drawing room. I'm still not trusting of strangers in the palace. "You called for me."

"No I didn't." I looked at my catalogue of potential bride's for Reli. Maybe I should start searching outside the kingdom.

"You called for the head of the Royal Guard." He continued.

"Stephen, not you."

"I am his replacement your majesty. My name is Barlowe. Carter Barlowe."

I was forced to pay attention. "Replacement?"

"Yes your majesty."

I frowned at him. Stephen has been with us for ten years! Did he quit?

"Can you please wait outside?" I smiled at the hard faced man.

"Yes your majesty." He bowed and stepped out.

I picked up the phone and called my son. Before he could speak, I did. "What happened to Stephen?"

"Reli dismissed him."

"Why?"

"I'll tell you in person."

"I see... I wanted to go to Saine Neane."

"Why? You're not well. You have been deeply disturbed-" I rolled my eyes and zoned out through his blabber of concern.  "Mother, do you hear me?"

"I want to see my grandson. It will be medicine for my soul."

"I'll have Barlowe accompany you."

"I don't know him."

"Then get to know him. It's a long flight." He laughed. "Be careful, okay?"

"Yeah. You too." I hanged up. I opened the doors to come face to face with the hard faced man. "Barlowe, I'm not that friendly. I complain and I can be fussy. Don't take offense."

"None will be taken your Majesty."

"I'm going to Saine Neane. You're coming. Let's go." I snapped my fingers and the servants waiting with my bags followed.

"Queen Mother!" Takara called from above at the landing. "Where are you going?"

"I need a change if scene! My faint heart can't take this tragic palace anymore! I'm going to Saine Neane."