A Dance of Silver and Shadow (Beyond the Four Kingdoms, #1)

by Melanie Cellier

“If you’re truly sorry, you don’t go for the easy apology.” He leaned in close and whispered in my ear. “I wanted the twin with fire in her eyes.”

“Up and down, round and round. I travel freely where I will, and not even the largest army can restrain me. And yet, neither can even the smallest baby feel me.”

“Do you eat with a knife and fork?” I bit back a smile and responded seriously. “I do indeed, why do you ask?” “Oh!” She paused to digest the information and then gave me an impish smile. “Back home, I heard one of the maids say that if the Emissary’s ship found other lands, the people would most likely be barbarians who don’t even eat with a knife and fork.” “Daisy!” Millie threw me an apologetic look. “You should know better than to listen to such talk. Does Lily look like a barbarian to you?” Daisy examined me consideringly, and I waited with equal parts curiosity and amusement for her assessment. “I don’t know,” she said at last. “I’ve never seen a barbarian. Have you?” she asked me with a hint of hope. I suppressed another smile. “I’m afraid I have not.” “That’s something we have in common,” said Daisy. “I think that means we can be friends.”

“I think you must be confused, Corinna,” an unexpected voice joined the conversation, and his tone sent a delicious shiver racing down my spine. I had never heard him sound so dangerous. “I decide who’s welcome in Marin, not you.” She paled and fell back several steps as if driven by an invisible source. “P...Prince Jonathan. I…I just…” “Yes?” He stepped into view, stopping just in front of me as if shielding me from her. “You just what?”

“Really, Jonathan. Is that whose side you want to take? Are you sure?” Her friends gasped, but she ignored them, taking a step toward him. Jon didn’t back down, stepping forward, instead, to meet her halfway. “Let me make one thing clear.” His words were low but clear, spoken slowly and with dangerous intent. “It doesn’t matter what you do or say. I will always choose her. Every. Single. Time.”

“I’m always responsible. For nineteen years I’ve been nothing but responsible. And I love my people. I just love you more. I’ve already told you—in this one thing I can’t be responsible. I would do anything to save you.”