This phrase appeared in the Royal Chronicles more than once. It usually involved players who played among themselves to pass the time and among whom the landshapers prevailed. If Lannahi won the Royal Duel, she would be living among the fae who saw nothing wrong in sending soldiers into battle for entertainment. The fact that they were able to contain their boredom long enough to wait until the date set by the Arbiter didn’t gave her much comfort.
When the applause rang out, Lannahi joined hastily, nervous that she could hardly remember anything from Yua’s performance. If someone asked her about it later, she wouldn’t know what to say.
Motivated by both practical reasons and a desire to show respect to her fellow professionals, Lannahi forced herself to focus on what was happening in the arena. The next performer was Mistis who played a chantey on the lute and won the approval of not only the rainmakers from the coast but everyone who enjoyed adventure and travel. When her place was taken by Nefari, who began to draw moody sounds from her harp that spelled a romantic ballad, Lannahi was convinced that Mistis would win the round. An attempt to touch the hearts of the world’s fiercest warriors where they were exposed to the gaze of potential enemies was a brave choice, but it had no chance of success…
Nefari knew this. From the beginning, she didn’t intend to touch anyone. Her voice and manner were seductive, but her music was deceptive just like the lyrics of her song.
Nefari’s ballad wasn’t romantic. It was witty and striking. Brilliant.
Genius.
Lannahi was so delighted that she began to start clapping when she realized that her mother was holding her hand. Lannahi met Asirri’s gaze, surprised. When the stands exploded with applause, Asirri smiled and let go of her hand to start clapping herself.
Oh.
Nefari came from Silverleaves. It didn’t behoove Lannahi and her family to clap first.
Lannahi joined in the enthusiastic applause, holding back the ironic smile that wanted to curve her lips. Some customs bordered on the absurd.
Halit, accompanied by the other contestants, joined Nefari and announced that by the verdict of the judges, the enchantress won. When asked if she would like to say something to the audience, the woman nodded.
“I’m glad my performance was enjoyable and I’m looking forward to the next challenges,” Nefari said. “Especially since I have heard about a new talent who is likely to participate in this tournament in the future.” Her eyes turned to where Sarkal was sitting with his family. “If time and the audience will allow, I would like to invite someone to the stage.”
Nefari fell silent for a moment, but when no one broke the surprised silence that followed her words, she smiled and added, “Lannahi from Goldenshadows, daughter of Sarkal and Asirri. Would you like to accept my invitation and share your music with us today?”
Chapter 5
Lannahi’s throat went dry even before her mind fully registered Nefari’s words. A part of her understood what was happening, but disbelief made her freeze. Artists sometimes challenged each other in public, but Lannahi couldn’t fathom why it was happening to her, right here and right now. Why did a famous singer want an artist with little experience to perform before Rulers from across the Continent?
The obvious answer was to winnow out the future competitors. The chance that Lannahi would back down or make a mistake was extremely high. Lannahi’s reputation would suffer for years if not for the rest of her life.
But…
Nefari was Sarkal’s subject. Why would she risk his wrath?
Whispers began to spread. Lannahi felt a gentle pressure on her thigh. Her mother was trying to get her attention.
Through the fog that shrouded her mind, Lannahi realized that no one in her family had moved. It wasn’t a scenario they had expected to happen, but her mother had warned her against the possibility. Nefari’s words were not meant as an insult. Lannahi was on her own.
As if in a dream, she rose from her seat. Refusal was not an option. She might make fool of herself, but she certainly wouldn’t be called a coward.
Aware of the curious stares, she straightened. She was already performing.
Straight back, calm expression, elegant movements.
She headed toward the stairs leading down into the arena. She involuntarily glanced at her father as she passed. His clenched jaw told her that he was just as puzzled by the unforeseen situation.
Maal who was sitting next to him…
Lannahi swiveled her head away. Her brother’s face was an unreadable mask, but Lannahi discovered the truth in his set features anyways. Silverleaves had two rulers.
We are wondering which courts might invite you.
Her brother treated her like a pawn.
Lannahi let her anger harden in her chest, but she pushed aside the questions and doubts. She reached the stairs and moved down them without hesitation. She made sure that each step she took was perfect.
Soft whispers rose as she passed, but soon vanished into a deafening silence when Lannahi stepped a foot onto the arena grounds.
