This book is book 2 of 'Shadow Empress' series. It's best to read 'Shadow Empress' before reading this to avoid confusion.
Book 1 of the Shadow Empress
Book 2 - The Monster Duchess
Book 3 - The Tearless Concubine
Isadora Mercer was just a poor dau...
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"What's wrong? Do you think my old wedding suits a bit suffocating?" I shook my head when the shadow empress patted my shoulder.
"Yesterday, when we parade the streets of the Capital with the head of our enemy, the people of the Empire were happy. I couldn't grasp the logical point of their laughter and happiness upon seeing another human, dead." Elpis smiled after hearing my words.
"The Empire has been living in peace for so many years under my reign. Now that I'd announced my plan to walk down the throne, the people of the Empire are simply worried about their safety. They keep questioning themselves if the next shadow empress will be able to protect them just like I did. You've shown yourself worthy of being my heir. Don't worry too much. My concubines will make sure that we will win this war." Elpis suddenly pointed at my reflection on the mirror.
"My daughter needs a worthy protector. The way she dealt with her affairs has come to the point where her enemies wish to have her head on their altar. The Empire is important, but your wife comes first. Protect her children that will be yours once you said the vow. Protect your family and the Empire." I nodded.
"And after I brought another glory to the Empire, you shall take my place with ease. Once the wedding ceremony is over, we shall continue to introduce your concubines to the family and the elders. I want to see how will they react, knowing that I did something behind their back." Elpis chuckled.
"What do you mean, your highness?" The shadow empress went to the decanter and poured herself a glass of whiskey.
"Normally, the elders would choose the rulers concubines, but in your case, I choose them personally without consulting those old fogeys. I imagine your wedding reception would be in chaos because the elders will try to force their title to me. I've been dealing with this group of people since the day I sat on my throne. It tends to get bad sometimes." I swallowed the lumps in my throat.
Not only I am nervous about the wedding; now I have to worry about the elders revolting at my wedding?!
"You look nervous, little miss knight." Elpis smiled. Of course, I am! It's all because of your words. I sighed mentally.
"By the way, since you'll be making my nephew the emperor as your advisor, what will happen your title? Your wife's title? Any thoughts?" I straightened my clothes and faced the shadow empress.
"I will become the empress regnant while Camille takes the title of an empress. My concubines will be my queen consort." Elpis raised an eyebrow.
"Is that so? So what if you choose Harris Hawthorne, Camille's firstborn to be the next ruler?" Elpis inquired.
"Camille mentioned this when we talked. The archduchess said that she has no plans for the future yet. For now, we're focussing in making the Empire the only power in the world." Elpis smiled.
