"What should our next move be, mother?"

"What should our next move be, mother?"

"Well, we have to handle the funeral. I will take care of the preparations, so you can focus on more important matters. If all goes to plan, it shall take place in 2 days time."

Emiko paused as the two walked over to the sofas, never letting go of her daughter's hand.

"When the time comes," Emiko began, her voice steady and deliberate, "you need to command the stage at your father’s funeral. It will not just be a tribute; it must be a demonstration of your strength and legitimacy. The people must see you not as the grieving daughter, but as their unwavering leader. Do you understand?"

Isabella nodded, knowing that her mother was right. The people needed to see her not as a young girl, but as a strong leader. The fate of her country depended on her performance.

"But there is something else you must do," Emiko continued, "You need to secure the support of a faction, be it the cabinet or the military. The two have always been at each other's throat, competing for Julián's favor. Have anyone approached you, other than Romero?"

Isabella paused. Serrano was the first person who came to her mind, but she was not sure how much of his improper advances she should tell her mother.

"Serrano," Isabella finally said, "he's the commander of the army."

"I know who he is, my child." Emiko responded, a slight hint of frustration in her voice. "And what did he want?"

"He..." Isabella's voice trailed off as her gaze fell to the floor, "He wants my approval to unleash the army on the rebels."

Isabella thought of the Cabinet meeting. "Some members of the Cabinet had proposals, but they all seemed to be taking instruction from Romero."

"Of course they did." Emiko sneered, "It's all politics. They are not here to help you, Isabella. But they all want something, and they may change their allegiance if you give it to them."

"What about Romero? How do I win him over?"

Emiko's lips formed a tight line as her eyes narrowed. "You don't," she said, "Romero is too dangerous. You need to flip the Cabinet, or make a deal to take him out."

"Take him out?" Isabella's eyes widened in surprise. She was not expecting her mother to suggest an ****. Perhaps Emiko shared more with her father than she would care to admit.

"Yes," Emiko replied, her tone firm and unyielding. "Make sure the public sees it, too, so that the rest of the Cabinets will fear you. But one thing is certain - he must die for you to live."

Isabella fell silent, contemplating the gravity of the situation.

"Carlos!" She suddenly exclaimed, "Carlos told me he has access to money that my father hid abroad. A treasure hoard, apparently. Maybe we can use it to buy their loyalty."

Emiko raised an eyebrow.

"Sofia Silva's son?" she said, "I remember attending his baby shower. The money will certainly help in our endeavor. But I suppose he did not offer you this out of the goodness of his heart?"

"No," Isabella admitted, "He offered me the money in exchange for sex. And the opportunity to marry him, that pig."

"Well, that's a relief ," Emiko laughed, "Men will do anything for a little pussy."