By the end of the night, I’ll prove to them there will never be anyone better suited for the throne. They demand excellence, and I’ll give them just that. But my people won’t settle for a good performance. Tonight, I’ve only one chance to prove I’m fit to claim the title of Animancer-a master of souls. And I’m to do it by showing them a proper demonstration of Aridian magic the magic shared only through the blood of the Montara family. Here, in the kingdom of Visidia, I must first prove myself to them if I’m to earn the title of heir. Because even as the king’s only child, my people will not simply hand me the crown and let me lead out of birthright. “I am,” I say, though the words are bolder than I feel. The contents inside clatter as I touch their rigid edges. Instinctively, my hand goes to the leather satchel resting on my hip. He’s not talking about my impending engagement. “Are you ready?” Father’s words are low but firm something in his eyes shifts.

Nothing can compare to the lavish trinkets of hungry suitors, and I’m not keen on ending their generosity. Boys in the kingdom think they can buy my love and title, and I let them believe it. But I prefer my daily suitors, and their gifts.Īmabons, ginnada, and dresses from the finest fabrics, all to woo the impressionable princess they believe I am. Ferrick is a fine enough man, if one dreams of settling down with a childhood acquaintance. For now, focus on earning the throne.” His deep brown eyes flicker to me, and he grins. But prove your strength to our people tonight, and I’ll know you’re capable of braving it. “The sea is a dangerous beast, Amora,” he says. Arida’s High Animancer, the King of Visidia, should always appear stern. The wrinkles also make him look stern, which I like. Years at sea have wrinkled his tanned olive skin, making him appear older than his forty years.

“To the volcanos of Valuka? The jungles of Suntosu?” The weather is gentle enough that my words carry to the bow where Father stands, overlooking the water. It’s one of the six islands I’ve not yet seen but will one day rule. Through the morning haze sits an outline of cloud-shrouded mountains that shape the kingdom’s northernmost island, Mornute. Turquoise water stretches into the distance, stuffed full of blue tangs and schools of yellowtail snapper that flounder away from our ship and conceal themselves beneath thin layers of sea foam. Late summer’s heat has beaten the sea into submission it barely sways as I stand against the starboard ledge. The ocean’s brine coats my tongue and I savor its grit.

All stars and teeth