Page 17 of Secrets and Starlight

That was centuries ago, and now the kings reclined upon their seat with the fatigue of age.

I watched as Ninti and Rimu prowled around the pavilion together. Attendants carried trays of food, and both looked hopefully at the snacks. It was impressive how easily Ninti had taken on the role of Rimu’s companion, and how her company seemed to calm the massive black dog.

I quickly spotted a leopard and a fawn—we weren’t the only fae with animal familiars. Soon an attendant led the dogs to an array of foods set aside just for the animals.

In a floating leap, a mer jumped into the pool as another rose from it, their forms shifting with ease, their clothes as grand as their fins and their skin instantly dry.

Iona watched my awe with curiosity. “You really are from Valterra, aren’t you? From the look on your face, you’ve never seen a fae shifter before. Well then, I’m sure the dragon fae will be quite a surprise.”

“I have a lot to learn,” I admitted.

“Looks like your mother found us,” Rhett murmured, eyeing the central pavilion. A member of the court looked at us, her blond hair identical to Iona’s and her face screwed tight in a scowl.

Iona tightened her grip on Rhett. “Oh, Teyr. See how she’s muttering to Lord Tallus?”

Following her gaze, I studied the fae beside Calindra. He had a pointed chin, and chunky bracelets covered both of his wrists.

“They’re thick as thieves, those two.” Iona explained for my benefit. “They’ve been working together my whole life, and even now, I’m sure they’re plotting to tear Rhett and I apart.”

Rhett chuckled, but his answer died in his throat as the music stopped. By now, dozens of fae had gathered throughout the pavilion, and the room grew quiet as everyone turned to the central dais.

The kings stood carefully, each grabbing an armrest to assist them. The one on the left cleared his throat, and when he spoke, his voice boomed through the room.

“Welcome, guests, to our assembly! When we ascended to the throne, countless fae goods did not exist yet and trade with Valterra was reserved for the dragon fae. How life has improved since then.”

Someone cheered, and another clapped.

The king continued, “Except the Collapse nearly ruined everything, the shades preventing trade with Valterra. However, with the end of Inarus and his shades, a new era is upon us. And as the leaders of this world, we are all in the position to reap the rewards.”

Applause resounded throughout the hall, followed by echoing cheers. I mimicked the others, swallowing down the uncertainty in my stomach.

If these fae were so grateful to see Inarus gone, why had no one offered to help Eleanor establish her court? These leaders had turned a blind eye to those who had sacrificed to make this possible.

Iona glanced at me, an almost-frown on her lips.

The other king spoke next. “Our deepest gratitude for your attendance—merchants and rulers alike—we hope that by givingeach of you a voice, we will all benefit. It is our pleasure to host this brilliant concord so you might shape the world to come.”

There were more cheers, and this time, as they died down, a third voice shouted into the room.

“If I may,” they began from somewhere across the pavilion. The crowd shifted, turning toward the speaker.

I found myself staring at the same male I had seen upon the yacht.The Starlit King.He was dressed in splendor, his rich golden suit tailored to his tall, strong build. Magic swelled within me as his gravitas both drew me closer and made me want to run. He seized the attention of the entire room.

The King of Mer lifted a hand in acknowledgement. “Please, enlighten us.”

The Starlit King answered, “With the Starlit Isle the closest to Valterran shores, I’ve staked my legacy on the trade of fae goods. So it is with great relief that I welcome this new era. And so, my good hosts, thank you for taking us under your care.” He lifted a glass, everyone’s attention rapt upon him. “A toast,” he proposed. “To our hosts.”

Attendants sped to action, putting glasses into every free hand. Through the chaos, the Starlit King kept his arm aloft, his lips turned in a patient smile.

I found myself lifting a drink along with the rest, the entire throne room eager to follow his lead.

“To the bright future of the Isles of Fae,” the Starlit King toasted.

“To the Isles of Fae,” the crowd echoed.

As the cheer faded, one of the kings waved his hands toward the musicians, and a bright melody began to fill the pavilion.

“And so it starts,” Iona whispered, taking another sip from her glass. She eyed Rhett warily, keeping her voice low. “Mother’s been putting pressure on the artisans, insisting they producemore fae goods faster. They’ve asked her for a larger payout for the extra work, and so far, she’s resisted.”

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