Elwis looked chagrined. “What we did not know, Trynne, was that for weeks prior, Gahalatine had been sending confederates into Marq. They were Brugians from Guilme, men and women who had been living under his rule for the last year. Apparently,” he added, scratching his neck with discomfort, “they were convinced of the justness of Gahalatine’s cause. Guilme has prospered this last year, enjoying an uncommon surge of wealth.”

“They’ve been bribed, you mean?” Trynne said, frowning.

Elwis shrugged. “Yes, it could be called that. Gahalatine has showered riches and treasure on the city, opening it to ports and splendors they never had access to previously. Even the lowliest merchants became wealthy . . . nearly overnight. Gahalatine appealed also to their dissatisfaction with how long the war with Kingfountain lasted. Our treasury was nearly emptied to pay for the war. Times have been hard. Suddenly, every man jack is rich.” He shook his head. “Let’s just say there was no shortage of willing confederates who were eager to conquer Marq. My forces were patrolling the coast with a minimal guard at the capital. I truly expected he’d bring his fleet to Guilme again. Retaking my city will not be easy.”

Genevieve touched Trynne’s shoulder. “The same pattern has happened in Atabyrion and Legault. When faced with a choice of fighting to the death or accepting unbounded wealth? Gahalatine is winning their hearts quickly through their purses. If he were murdering innocents and burning fields, it would give the people something to rally against.”

“But where is he getting all this treasure to hand out these bribes?” Trynne asked, feeling conflicted by the news. She respected that Gahalatine was not using cruelty to conquer their land. He’d claimed all along that his goal was to depose corrupt leadership and improve the living conditions for the common people. But what would happen once he’d conquered the world and couldn’t use the riches of one kingdom to bribe the next?

“We don’t know,” Drew said, shaking his head. He glanced at his wife and then back at Trynne. Genevieve kissed her baby girl’s cheek before returning her gaze to Trynne.

“Perhaps you can find that out for us,” Drew said in a low, steady voice. “I would like to send you and Morwenna to the Forbidden Court. Gahalatine’s fleet is raking our borders. I cannot even imagine the vastness of his resources. His army will continue to grow as he finds those willing to believe in his vision and leadership. We need to find his weakness.” He glanced at his wife once again and Genevieve nodded. “And to rescue our lost friends.”

Trynne saw Fallon start, his brow furrowing with worry and concern. He clenched his fists and opened his mouth as if to demand that he come with them. He was the king’s champion now. He had won the Gauntlet of Kingfountain.

But he surprised her by saying nothing.