Page 95

“I said the same, at first. It seemed impossible, given her age. Her father was Caius Harrow, one of Richard’s sons and the second Keeper. Apparently, being guardian of the Deep Archives gives her a brand of immortality tied to it.”

“Which is why she never leaves.”

“Precisely. She told me of her father and more of my ancient ancestors than I’d ever known before. They did not always live in Estmere but were more akin to diplomats, seeing their purpose not only as keeping our family’s secrets but of furthering the humans’ cause by living among the people of Elydor, helping to make them see our commonalities. Over time, that purpose was lost. We have been isolated, as your people have, for too long.”

“You can be The Keeper from here?”

“I’d not have thought so, but so often we are stuck thinking the way things are done is the only way forward. I may need to leave, at times, but aye, I aim to both serve as The Keeper, and your husband too.”

“And as the King of Thalassaria.”

“You are the true ruler here. I am but your servant, Nerys.”

His gaze dipped to the deep cut of my gown.

“Is that so?”

“It is.”

I knew where this conversation was heading. But first, I had to be certain Rowan understood how deeply I appreciated his sacrifice. It would have been easier to carry out his duties from Estmere, and it was as likely he would receive resistance from his fellow Keepers, as I had in taking him as a partner.

“Thank you, Rowan.”

He reached up between us, tracing my bottom lip with his finger.

“Thank you for trusting me.” The mischief in his eyes told me what was coming next. “A stranger, come to beg a favor of the queen.”

His hand moved from my lip, Rowan’s deft fingers gentle as he tucked loose strands of hair behind my ear.

“What, pray tell, is the favor you ask of me?”

Rowan moved closer to me. “My queen,” he said, his voice thick with promise. “I ask for use of the Tidal Pearl so that we may reopen the Aetherian Gate once again.”

I pretended to consider his request. “What do you propose to offer me in exchange?”

His smile left no room for interpretation on precisely what my partner was offering.

“I accept.”

Rowan tossed his head back, the sound of his laughter settling on my soul.

“That,” he said, leaning forward with a kiss, “was unexpectedly easy.”

EPILOGUE

ROWAN

I never expected it to be this difficult.

When I decided to travel with Marek, Mev, and Kael north, Marek to deposit me in Estmere en route, Nerys and I knew it was necessary. Neither of us wished to be separated so soon, but I needed to speak with my family. There were big changes afoot, ones they needed to learn about from me directly.

But now, standing on the docks, having said goodbye many times already, I wanted to take her into my arms again and, this time, never let go.

“This is the most miserable I’ve seen you look since we met,” Mev said as the others prepared to board.

“It will be difficult, being separated,” I admitted.

“But maybe good for her too. Caelum said there was a pocket of dissent in Maristhera to the idea of a human king?”