Ves is gonna have to act now. It's him or no one. Similarly, he should at least get the assurance they won't get rid of him for the same reasons as the Polymath...
So she want to reach the same stage as Cynthia. But even Cynthia knows that even with her autority is not the holder of the water scroll.Ves is on the eye of the Strom
I think Ves' love for autonomy will triumph over him. He should create another kingdom for companion spirits similar to living mechs. And in some way pull the humans and mechs to that kingdom. Will end up being stronger than the Kingdom of Mechs in future.
i Hope the plan from the polymath gets fulfilled and she will be the new queen. it should be an interesting Twist to the Story. ves in constant fear maybe defect to the aliens... good stuff shall follow.