My gaze was bloody everywhere as we walked to the Merfolk Queen’s castle. The sand crunched beneath my boots on the thin streets and the noise level was a new experience for me. There were so many merfolk talking in their high-pitched voices it would be impossible to listen in on any one conversation.
Seashells coated the storefronts like grapevines and coral dotted the windows in colorful quirks. Merchants displayed Fae figurines and fishbone knives, seashell jewelry, lotions, swimwear, and so much more in their windows. In the middle of a courtyard, a small park full of merfolk children on swings and slides had rainbow sandboxes, while dogs barked periodically next to their owners.
All the while, thousands of yellow fish swam above the glass dome lighting the entire area in an ethereal glow of relaxation and mysticism.
“My Fae,” I whispered, staring up at a section of poles hanging from the dome. There were beautiful merfolk swinging around them in the most complex of moves, using their arms or their legs to keep them twirling…andtwirling. “That is incredible.”
“They are much sought after,” Queen Alora stated proudly. “The carnival troupe they work for is located in this city, but they do travel occasionally. I’ve heard the show is always exquisite.”
King Athon grunted and watched the aerialists. “I have seen them before, and you’re correct. They are a splendid group to watch.”
King Elon appraised them in appreciation. “They arewonderful. I shall have to hire them for a party I wish to have.”
“You’ll need to contact the carnival far in advance,” Queen Alora warned. “I’ve heard rumors they are extremely selective on what events they accept.”
The Gorgon King nodded. “I shall do that. I imagine they would love what I have in mind.” His lips curled into a secretive smile—which was entirely discomforting.
King Traevon bent down to my height and captured my attention by pointing discreetly in front of us. “That is where I purchase those bath beads from, my daughter. The ones you were asking about.”
I nibbled on my lower lip. I did not want to tell him I had stolen two bottles from his personal bathroom to take to the Shifter Kingdom. “Um…we will have to go there then and purchase more.”
An emerald gaze fell upon me from the corner of his eye. “Or, perhaps, you may simply return mine.”
Cringing, I tilted my face back from his. “I know not what you are referencing.”
“At least say that with a straight face.” King Traevon snorted and straightened to his full height. “That was pathetic.”
Queen Mikko snickered softly. And nodded.
“You’re supposed to be the nice one,” I grumbled at her.
She merely shrugged. “A toddler could have done better.”
I threw my hands up in the air and sighed heavily. “I am beginning to feel like my life is one grand jest.” I pointed a finger into the air sharply. “And, might I say, it could use more bath beads since they do not last long in large tubs when an imbecile does not know how to use them properly.”
Father blinked at me in confusion. Our tubs were not overlarge…because we were not built like shifters. Fortunately, he did not open his mouth to argue.
“Shall we move along?” King Athon glared straight at me. “Or would you like to go shopping during our quest to keep everyone from dying in this realm?”
“Fine point.” I motioned forward and smiled with fangs flashing. “Let us go, great leader. Keep us on track.”
The Shifter Kingsnarled. “You are starting to aggravate me, elf.”
I reached a hand over my shoulder and patted my back.
“All right.” King Traevon coughed behind his fist deliberately, capturing all of our attention. “Mayhap, we should move along, as King Athon suggested before we draw too much attention to ourselves.” He tilted his head slightly to the right.
As one, we all looked in that direction.
Discreet we were not at the moment.
Especially, as a table full of merfolk patrons had their faces planted against the window of the brasserie we stood next to, watching and eating, like we were the most captivating show.
And they waved. How sweet…
Fortunately, it did not appear that they knew who we were.
One could hope, anyway.
