Now that Neruda Shen was imprisoned. The real work to restore the Mediahn people’s faith in the monarchy could begin. Bareeds’ first action was assessing the situation with the barbarians.

At first, it seemed as though Illezra led the barbarians, but suddenly she disappeared. Without her influence, they seemed to have no idea what to do. Bareeds wanted to find a way for his people and the barbarians to live peacefully. It was time for negotiations to begin.

Barhan was happy to help the young King with his negotiations, but to the surprise of the Mediahn people, Barhan worked only in an advisory role. He stayed at the sidelines letting Bareeds take the reins. There was still much work to do.

With this in mind, Deneve asked to meet with King Bareeds, Prince Barhan, and Sirare. She knew she could not just stay with them as it would not bring her any closer to finding the Black Spirit’s home. She had no wish to destroy it as Lord Red had done. It was a living being as real as any of her summons. She had made a deal and was going to follow through with it.

As she made her request, Bareeds objected, “You are still the Princess of Mediah. I still need you.”

Sirare shook his head. “Bareeds,” he chided gently. “She hasn’t stepped down as Princess. She is just asking for time to take care of this. You know as well as I that anyone exposed to the Dark Energy for a long time will go mad.”

Barhan nodded in agreement with Sirare. “It is true. I have seen the same happen in my own country. Those who did not subdue the spirit or fulfill the contract went mad.”

“You don’t need me for negotiations,” Deneve said, smiling. “I feel I need to do this now.”

“She has a few days left of the engagement cohabitation agreement is up,” Barhan added. “Then, she would be free to go.”

“That’s reasonable,” Sirare replied.

He turned to Deneve. “What do you want to do about the engagement?”
Deneve looked thoughtfully at the three before answering. “I think it would in the best interest of everyone to let it go on. There is no need to cause more unrest, as the people have gotten used to the idea. If something were to happen to me. Then it would be null. In any case, ensure that whatever story is told does not interfere in any way with the diplomatic relations between your countries. That is my wish.”

“You always want what is best for everyone,” Sirare smiled wryly. “I hope one day, you decide what you want for yourself.”