~The Author~
Fortuna moved into action without wasting time. She knew the men she sent to destroy Xavier's family had already gone ahead. There was no turning back now. She warned Angelina to make sure everything went according to plan, or else they were both doomed.
Then she went straight to the Queen Mother's chambers and knocked. A few seconds later, the maid opened the door and let her in.
Fortuna stepped inside and saw the Queen Mother sitting calmly.
"Mother," she said sweetly, walking toward her with open arms.
The Queen Mother was taken by surprise. Fortuna's voice was softer than usual, her eyes filled with what looked like emotion. Still, the Queen Mother stood and returned the embrace.
"How are you this evening?" Fortuna asked, settling into the role she came to play.
"By the grace of the gods, I'm fine," the Queen Mother answered. "And you?"
