“Daiya I struggle to understand? I’ve questioned mother on numerous occasions only to receive——-.”

“I am queen and you will do as I command, “Daiya says finishing her sentence mimicking their mothers tone.

“Yes, I never carried enough strength to stand up to her, “she says in a soft tone.

“You didn’t have to…….it was my weight to carry and I carried it well.”

“You smile, what was the response given?”

“She gave none.”

“Her decision to force me to marry was based upon her position to do so!?”

“That day she gave no response, it wasn’t until I unexpectedly visited her chambers she was forced to give reason………..she’s dying.”

“Dying? Daiya you are mistaken!”

“I am not, I saw with my own two eyes her hair is no longer disguised by a wig and she coughs up blood.”

“Maybe she is just ill?”

“No, she is dying and refuses to seek treatment her failing health is reason why she sought to force you to marry in order to see both you and I taken care of in the event of her demise.”

“She has never been deserving of title of mother given her treatment of us both especially me yet I fight back the tears knowing she will soon depart from this world why?”

“Despite her callousness we both were born from her womb.”

“Don’t remind me, “her response forced Daiya to smile.

“She expressed she did not want me to inform you of her failing health she cannot discover that I’ve told you.”

“You have my word, “she says as a single tear rolled down her cheek, “Her guilt is that reason for Auscha and Laras presence here in Natticulus?”

“Yes, she has ask for their forgiveness and mine.”

“And?”

“It was granted all that remains is yours which she fears greatly she will never receive.”

“Why should I forgive the woman who almost saw me to ruin?”

“You should not and I am not telling you to convince you otherwise.”

“Then why are you telling me?”

“I do not know how much longer breath will continue to fill her lungs.”

“You’re hoping I too will forgive her.”

“Yes hoping, “she says placing her hand on top of hers.

“When she departs this world what will become of Natticulus? Who will sit as head of the throne?”