“I can even build ships that shouldn’t exist anymore. But when it comes to using them, well, that part I’m not as well versed in.”

With one hand still pressed firmly to the wall, Caledonia joined Hesperus on the ledge overlooking the hidden pier.

“You’ve made yourself a fleet,” she said, nearly breathless.

“I thought that’s what I was doing,” he said, annoyed by some unspoken failure. “But I was wrong.”

Caledonia turned with the question ready on her lips.

Hesperus swept one hand out, gesturing to the collection of ships before them and said, “I’ve made you a fleet.”

Chapter Forty-one

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

Hesperus made himself a consummate host. Every member of Caledonia’s crew was bunked in one of the many cabins, and the next day they were greeted by the scents of an incredible feast drifting through the crisp air. It drew everyone outside of their bunks with guarded yet hopeful expressions as they sought the source of the delicious smells.

Caledonia emerged to find the grounds transformed. Tables were arranged in the common space. On each, plates, silverware, and glasses were set in neat rows, and bottles of the Sly King’s renowned cherry wine sat uncorked, ready for pouring. From the kitchen where Caledonia and her command crew had gathered the previous evening came a string of Hesperus’s people all bearing steaming plates of food, each more enticing than the last.

“My end of the bargain.” Hesperus strode toward Caledonia, the early morning sun warming his black skin. “The first bargain.”

Their conversation had ended without resolution last night. Caledonia wanted to fight. She wanted to take the fleet Hesperus was offering her and carve away at Aric’s power. But for all of that, she’d made a promise to Sledge and the Blades to see them through the Net, and she didn’t see how she could have both.

Instead of accepting what Hesperus offered, she’d asked for exactly what they’d come to ask him for: food and shelter while they repaired their ship.

“Thank you.” Caledonia wouldn’t let him push her into a negotiation on his terms. He could wait. Especially when there was food to be had.

Caledonia stepped up to the head of the central table. Her crew had collected in an anxious semicircle around the tables, their hunger slowly overcoming their resolve. She reached for the nearest wine goblet and raised her voice. “Claim your cups!”

They didn’t require a second invitation. They moved in, reaching for the wine-filled cups until every person had one. They held them ready, eyes on Caledonia.

“First, to the Sly King for his hospitality and this very fine food.” She tipped her glass toward the man himself and paused while her crew repeated in a single, hearty voice, “To the Sly King!”

Everyone took a sip of the tart liquid, murmuring in appreciation.