Page 127 of Kiss of Light

“He looks very happy about it.”

Tala considered the fire fae whose hand the jinn was gripping in a daze.

“Yeah. He does. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him so happy.”

Darian nuzzled her ear.

“That’s what love does to you.”

Tala leaned against him, enjoying his attention.

“And in a few weeks, he’ll be the ruler of Nush’aldaam. Everything’s falling into place.”

Shadeed and Raya walked hand-in-hand through the crowds, acknowledging the congratulations that flew thick and fast. When they reached Tala and Darian, Raya surprised them by throwing her arms around the demon.

“Thank you,” she whispered fiercely. “If you hadn’t found me in that hospital, I wouldn’t be here now.”

Tala looked at Shadeed over Raya’s shoulder. He shrugged.

“She was brought up as human. She hugs.”

Tala patted her on the shoulder. Technically, this woman would be her empress soon.

“That’s okay. Just doing my job.”

Raya released her.

“Sorry. Old habits.” She nodded at Darian. “Count Lemar, good to see you again. Thank you for coming.”

“My Lady.” He bowed. “Congratulations to you both. My father sends his regards and regrets he can’t be present.”

“Please convey my gratitude to Prince Vassago,” Shade said. “His very public backing of my quest for the throne tipped the balance.”

“I gather you’re to be coronated next month?”

“Yes. My wife and I…” Raya blushed, still unused to her new status, “…will be moving into the Gilded Palace shortly. You and Tala will be guests of honour at the coronation.”

“We would be delighted, Lord Shad…” he stopped, cocking his head. Tala frowned.

“What is it?”

“Something’s happening.” He turned towards the castle entrance, listening keenly. “Someone’s coming.”

“You can hear that fromhere?” asked Raya.

“Vetali hearing. Very sharp,” Tala said. Darian didn’t answer. He stood stock still for a moment. Then he turned to Shadeed.

“It’s a Marid. He’s asking to see you.”

Shock flooded the jinn’s face.

“Marid? You cannot mean…”

Soldiers poured into the garden, swords drawn, as they shepherded a figure towards them. The man was completely surrounded but he held himself with a confidence bordering on arrogance.

He strode towards Shadeed, ignoring the consternation of the crowd as people recognised him. His composure was baffling, given he’d delivered himself willingly into enemy hands. Shadeed stared, hardly able to believe his own eyes.

“Salaq.”

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