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“This sudden obsession with children from my womb is really annoying. No one cared before.”

“Because before we had numerous heirs.”

“And what if I birthed an idiot?” Avera retorted.

“I’m sure it would be no worse than your brother.”

Her nose wrinkled. “Perish the thought.” She paused. “I don’t suppose you can think of a lord I could tolerate?”

“Not in Velunda. Many of the lords in our capital are soft from city living. Given the recent troubles, I’d recommend a strong consort. One who could act as your guard in private.”

“A fighter, eh…” A husband who could wield a blade and defend. An interesting idea.

“Alas, I don’t know of any lords with that kind of skillset, but then again, I am not familiar with those outside the capital.”

“Meaning this pilgrimage of mine should be done sooner than later.” While Avera didn’t truly want a husband, she did want to put a stop to all the puffed-out chests and boring monologues about how long their family had served, how loyal they were, how well connected.

“You must do the tiara ceremony first.”

She waved a hand. “Fine. But once I’m crowned, we’ll depart immediately.”

“And who will run things while you’re gone?” Gustav asked. “You haven’t yet appointed a new duke.”

“Must I?” Avera failed to hide the whine at yet another thing she had to handle.

“Someone has to make decisions when you’re absent. You’ll want to choose someone who won’t undermine your rule.”

“Only that?” she sarcastically stated. “And how am I supposed to select that person when I barely know anyone? Keep in mind, most of these people currently simpering in my presence never spoke to me before the death of my family. I know no one and trust no one but you. Want to be Duke?”

“No.” A firm refusal. “But I might know someone that would suit.”

“Who?”

“Lady Josslyn Druuven, a widow just slightly older than you. She has no children, and from what I understand, no intention of remarrying anytime soon. As the last of her line, she is wealthy and so not easily bribed.”

“But can she ensure things run smoothly while I’m gone?”

“She is strong of character. Not easily pushed around. Firm but fair.”

“High praise.”

“The truth,” said Gustav with a roll of his shoulders. “Meet with her. See what you think.”

Since Avera valued Gustav’s opinion, she had the lady fetched. She arrived at Avera’s office promptly. The new queen sitting behind the desk in a chair she’d had swapped from the one that reminded her of her mother. It helped her feel like less of an intruder.

“Your Majesty.” As Lady Josslyn curtsied, Avera took her measure. Elegant in a simple gown of blue, her blonde hair tied back in a braid, the lady appeared barely older than Avera.

“Thanks for coming on such short notice,” Avera stated.

Chin held high, eyes bright and curious, Lady Josslyn took in the space then Avera herself who also wore a simple gown with no frivolous nonsense. The lady tilted her head. “Of course, Your Majesty. How may I be of assistance?”

“By being honest. I’m going to be blunt and ask, how are you at running things and keeping people in line?”

Josslyn blinked. “I’m sorry?”

“My understanding is your home is well kept.”

“Well, yes.” She looked confused.