Chapter 58

Her father stood at her side, surprise suffusing his features. “That will surely silence any doubts that you are who we say. Moonflowers are exceptionally rare, my darling and very powerful magically.” He pointed to people in blue-green robes who were already moving through the square and picking the flowers gently. “There are five magical ailments that are treated with moonflower extract, your gift is a boon to the healers and will save many lives.”

“I am glad that they are useful.” Ardala watched the healers pluck the blooms in the gathering dusk. “What else must I do?”

“There is to be a celebration tonight for the emissaries of the other courts.” He led her off the balcony and back into the anteroom where the rainbows had gone dark in the absence of the sun. “There will be supper and dancing as well. If you are too weary, you needn’t attend, but it would please me to have you at my side.”