Page 359 of Kingdoms of Night

He stopped then, denying me of what I wanted most.

“Put the dagger away,” he said, and I tensed. “You don’t want to hurt me.”

Was that an order? Did he use magic?

No, I still had power over my body. But, he was right, I no longer wanted to kill him.

So, I lowered the dagger, but didn’t put it away.

“You spoke of a deal,” I said, instead, dagger at my side.

He straightened himself, standing at his full height.

“Tell me what you want, and then I’ll tell you what I want.”

My heart soared. This was my moment. This was what I’d dreamed of since I’d been assigned this mission.

I could return to my kingdom victorious.

“My request is simple; reverse the effects of the curse that now has my people drowning. The magic has changed—its waning—and some of us are unable to stay under the sea like we used to. This is why we are exposing ourselves. We have no choice but to.”

His brows lifted, but he absorbed my plea. While he mulled over my words, I wondered what he was thinking—what he would say.

I began praying to the sea goddess and to the land gods.

Then, he nodded. “Very well. I’ll do it. I know a spell that can give you what you ask.”

I could have cheered. The smile that came to my face made my cheeks hurt. I wanted to throw my arms around my neck, and thank him. But, I restrained myself. This was business. Not a favor.

That fact was sobering. I cleared my throat, smile fading. “And, what is it that you want in return?”

Then, his mischievous grin returned, and darkness filled his eyes.

“I want you, Siddhe,” he said. “I want you, and your siren call to distract my enemies. I want your loyalty and fidelity.”

I stiffened, speechless.

It was a heavy price.

“For how long?”

He shrugged. “How long do you want your people to remain safe and sound in the sea kingdom?”

My eyes widened. “Forever!”

His smiled widened. “Very well. That’s how long I want you.”

Again, I was unable to speak, unable to move. My voice was caught in my throat.

That would mean I’d never see my sister again, Makoa, Kaimana, or any of my friends and kin in my kingdom.

I knew the cost, and I didn’t need to think it over anymore.

It was worth it.

“I’ll do it. You have my word.”

He clasped a hand on my shoulder, and before I could say another word, he sent a shocking jolt of power into my body.

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