The Empress of Xytae (Tales of Inthya, Band 4)

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Crown Princess Ioanna of Xytae has concealed her truthsayer blessing for twenty years. In most realms, such magic would be celebrated, but in Xytae, where the war goddess Reygmadra reigns, Ioanna is expected to embody the traits of a fierce warrior. Naturally reserved and peaceful, she feels like a disappointment to the court, striving daily to support her mother in governing the empire while her father is away at war. However, following the emperor's sudden death, Ioanna is usurped by her younger sister Netheia, who possesses the war magic that Ioanna lacks. Meanwhile, Princess Vitaliya of Vesolda arrives in Xytae to escape her father's impending wedding, which she views as a betrayal of her mother's memory. With no interest in politics, she prefers to indulge in parties and familial embarrassment. When she unexpectedly saves Ioanna during Netheia's coup, they must flee the capital together. As they travel, Vitaliya discovers that Ioanna's shyness stems from a troubled childhood, while Ioanna is unaccustomed to Vitaliya's candidness. Determined to prevent her sister from continuing their father's legacy, Ioanna plans to gather allies against Netheia's coronation. Despite knowing she should leave to avoid civil war, Vitaliya feels compelled to stay and support Ioanna, unaware that their enemies are watching and see Vitaliya as a vulnerability to exploit.