Chapter 19

Of course, I ate my own words again. Managing the pack’s affairs in the absence of my husband is not at all easy, nor is it comparable to the affairs in the palace.

“Ma’am, the blacksmiths are complaining. Since the trade is temporarily stopped because of the dangers at the border, our coal and metal resources are nearly depleted. This delays their weapon production and they won’t be able to sell…ultimately, they won’t be able to provide for their family. They are begging for your help.”

I am currently in his office, where political or economic affairs do not cease to exist and every passing day my headache worsens. As I hear a new complaint, I massage my temples and attempt to manage my problematic expression.

“I will have to discuss this matter with the elders first,” I say, as I really am out of ideas. My help is limited in matters of trade and leaving the borders, because I cannot open or reopen the trade deals, else the lives of the traders will be my responsibility—especially n