“Welcome to Somrey, Chosen of the Gods.” He bowed slightly then made the formal sign of the circle. “I am Moderator Meeran. It is our pleasure to see you again, Mairae Gemshaper, and an honor to be the first foreign land to receive Auraya Dyer.”

Arleej’s eyes slid to Leiard’s. Her stare was intense and questioning, and he sensed doubt and suspicion. He inclined his head, and she dropped her chin once in reply.

“We are delighted to be visiting your fair islands, Moderator Meeran,” Mairae replied, “and I am pleased to be renewing my acquaintance with you and all the council members.” She looked at Haleed and Arleej. The pair inclined their heads and murmured a reply.

“I have been looking forward to meeting each of you,” Auraya said, smiling with enthusiasm. Arleej’s lips curled upward in response, but her smile did not extend to her eyes. “I have heard much about the beauty of your land, and hope to see some of your country,” Auraya added, “if I have time.”

In other words, if we settle this quickly, Leiard thought.

“Then we must arrange a tour for you.” Meeran’s smile was genuine. His gaze then shifted past Mairae to Danjin. “This must be Danjin Spear. I had the pleasure of trading with your father, in my younger days.”

Danjin chuckled. “Yes. He spoke both admiringly and scathingly of your bargaining skills many times.”

Meeran’s smile widened. “I imagine he did, but I like to think those skills are put to better use now, for the benefit of the people.” His gaze flickered to Auraya, and Leiard wondered if she had noted the subtle warning in the man’s words. Then Meeran’s attention turned to Leiard. “And you must be Dreamweaver Adviser Leiard.”

Leiard nodded.

“Have you visited Somrey before?”

“I have memories of this place, but they are old.”

Arleej’s eyebrows rose fractionally.

“Then welcome back, Dreamweaver,” Meeran said. “I look forward to hearing how you came to be in this unique and promising position of Dreamweaver adviser to the White. Now,” he turned and clapped his hands, “we shall offer you refreshments.”

The boat had pulled away from the ship, the rowers’ backs flexing as the oars cut through the water. Meeran ushered the visitors to seats and made polite conversation while servants brought glasses of a warm spiced drink called ahm.

A high wall ran along the entire length of the city. On top of it was a long line of people, those in front sitting with their feet dangling over the edge. As the welcoming craft drew closer the calls of these people grew audible. Auraya and Mairae waved, rousing a cheer from the crowd.