Page 31 of The Light Falls
“Why don’t you introduce yourself, and the other ladies,” I suggest to the blond.
Silence. She jerks to her feet and goes around the room, introducing the ladies. When she gets done, she turns to me. “Lady Brilla of the Spring Court.”
I smile. “It’s nice to meet you, Lady Brilla. Any relation to Lord Camon?”
A haughty expression settles on her face. “My brother.”
Well, that certainly explains her hostility. “I see. Tell me, why would you want to be a lady-in-waiting when you could join the council? Is the latter too much for you?”
She rears back. “The council? That’s my brother’s role.”
I glance at Solandis. “Is there a rule that says only one family member may join the council?”
Solandis laughs. “No. We do limit the number of available seats for each family, but that’s to ensure order is maintained. There are currently six open seats.” She darts a look at Lady Brilla. “We only accept members who are smart and interested in improving our kingdom.”
The sound of a teacup hitting the table is loud. “Oops, sorry. I’m just a bit excited.” A petite, dark-haired lady bobs her head. “Lady Fiora of Summer, Your Majesty. I’m interested in joining the council.”
She stares at me earnestly while she pleads her case. “I attended the technology school in Meira, and I have a lot of ideas that can improve our way of life. How do I apply for the position?”
“Is there a specific protocol?” I ask Solandis.
“You only need the backing of a current council member,” she replies. Turning to Fiora, she smiles. “Why don’t we chat over lunch, and if I like what I hear, I’ll recommend your placement.”
Lady Brilla immediately stands. “I’d also like to apply for a council member position.”
Lady Estrella steps forward. “Sit next to me at lunch, and we’ll discuss it.”
Scanning the rest of the ladies, I see a couple of others who look like they’re thinking about it. “Assuming Lady Fiora and Lady Brilla get sponsored, there are only four remaining seats. If you’re interested, sit next to Solandis or Estrella at lunch and tell them about yourself.”
Solandis motions to one of the brownies standing nearby. The tiny Fae immediately enlists help to replace the long dining table with round ones.
Divide and conquer.
“I refuse to have any ladies-in-waiting,” I inform the rest of them. Angry, they glance knowingly at each other. “However, I do need a social team. Three ladies to help me plan events at the palace, decide which outside events to attend, and organize my time.”
I stand and move to one of the tables. “Those who wish to apply for one of the three positions, please join me at my table. For those remaining, let me know if there’s a specific skill or area that interests you. I’ll do everything I can to help you find a place to help too.” I hold my breath while I wait to see if anyone takes me up on my offer. Surprisingly, all the seats at my table fill up.
The rest of the luncheon goes by quickly. All six council member seats are filled by smart, interesting women, including Fiora and Brilla. Lady Allandra, Lady Tanith, and Lady Sylva join my social team. Lady Tanith helps the remaining ladies schedule appointments so I can figure out the best fit for them.
“Do you have an outfit to wear for tonight?” Lady Allandra asks me. “Lorn told me he was taking you to dinner and a show.” Her eyes skim the business-like dress I’m wearing. “I could help you pick out something?”
Unused to letting anyone outside my trusted circle into my bedroom, I hesitate for a second, but when I glimpse the hopeful look in her lavender eyes, I give in. “Sure, that would be lovely. Thank you. Let me say goodbye to Solandis.”
Estrella and Solandis are in deep discussion when I come over. “Is everything okay?”
“It’s perfect,” Estrella replies excitedly. “We were able to choose candidates who are both qualified and open to finding solutions for the Lesser Fae issues we face. And we now have nine women on the council, including yourself. We haven’t had those kinds of numbers in ages.”
The anxiousness I’ve been carrying all day eases. When I put the crown on my head, I became determined and focused for the first time in my life. I want to be a good queen for the light Fae. One they can be confident will have their best interests at heart. For someone who never thought in terms of good and evil or light and dark, it’s a huge adjustment.
Solandis gives me a brief hug. “You were perfect, my dear.” She looks at both of us and gives a dry laugh. “I can’t wait to attend the next council meeting.”
I can’t wait to see Lord Camon’s face when his sister shows up. “When is it?”
“Next week,” Estrella inserts.
Glad we’ve got a few days to prepare, I nod. “Well, I’m going to get ready for my date tonight. I’ll see you later.”
“Have fun, darling,” Solandis calls out.
