Under the Oak Tree Book 2 "Conquering hearts" ( Fan fiction)

Chapter 10- Riftan

Shaking my head, I tried to erase the memories flooding my thoughts.

Those were memories I never wanted to re-live again. I quickly stood, the chair moving backwards against the floor filled the silence. Motioning for Ruth to follow I made my way to the council room. When we got there both Habernon and Uslin were quietly waiting. They both bowed their heads has I made my way to my desk. The chair was still splintered in the corner and not wanting to draw attention to it, I opted to lean against the wall.

Clearing my throat, I drew their attention to me. "Anatol needs better defenses. Has it stands right now we are getting by and have fortified our gates better than most cities." Pausing I took a moment to collect my thoughts. "We still have a long way to go! Before my wife returns, I want Anatol to be impenetrable and able to withstand any attack." I peered at the three men before me.

"We will perfect our trade route and build up the ports. I expect to increase our markets, and relationships with neighboring countries and cities alike. My wife intends to fight against her father politically fighting fire with fire. In order to do that, Anatol must be strong enough to overtake Cryoso politically, financially, and physically."

I continued, while still leaning against the wall. The three men in front of me were stunned. Their expressions went from intrigued to determined. I knew that the Remdragon knights and I could demolish Cryoso right now if we were given the chance. Nothing would give me greater pleasure, but it would not change the fact that my wife was forced to leave, and outsiders were beginning to mess in our affairs. Maxi's face flashed across my thoughts when Habernon spoke up... "where do we start?"

Judging by Habernons expression he knew where I was going with this and was all too eager to comply. He had been hounding me since we returned from the dragon raid to strengthen defenses and trainings. Although I agreed with him, we had other pressing matters to attend too. Now that those have been resolved, this will be our new priority! It was no secret that the men standing before me had become rather fond of my wife and would do anything they could to aid in her return and safety. She had unknowingly gained the trust of every man in the Remdragon knights, after saving the majority of us in the war, and making the ultimate sacrifice. Come to think of it, Maxi was always sacrificing something for others. Just the thought of that weighed heavy on my heart.

Uslin, who had been quite stepped forward. "You want to create an empire that would squash any and all competitors... even compete against the king?" He raised an eyebrow.

I smirked, " YES! No one will be able to force her to leave again! The king is losing momentumn in his ruling of Wedon, and the Duke of Cryoso has been gaining popularity.  If we don't strengthen ourselves now, then what chance do we stand if Wedon falls into his hands?"

The three men grew silent, their expressions hardening. Everyone knew it was only a matter of time before the king was challenged. That is why they used my wife to push their agenda in showing fault in the duke. Maxi had her reasons for leaving, but I also had my own reasons for trying to get her to stay. The king and his family, although great acquaintances, would flip on you in a moment's notice to continue their pursuit of power. Princess Agnes, although different from most members of her family, would do the same.

With determination once again reflecting in their eyes, Ruth broke the silence..."I will start on an array of new devices to strengthen our barricades and current borders."

I nodded and looked at Habernon and Uslin. Habernon cracked his knuckles, "I will increase the trainings difficulty. We will keep our skills sharp, and act as though we are readying for war." 

I nodded and looked towards Uslin who spoke up, " I will reach out to fellow allies. We will strengthen our bonds with the nobles one by one. I cannot guarantee that they will bite, but I will throw the bait out there any ways!"