The princess nodded, eager as a puppy. “Dessert!” she exclaimed, shooting a sulky glance at Sera before leading them to a set of stairs. “I didn’t know you were engaged,” she said to Leo as the ship began to move out into the water. But her petulance faded quickly as she began chattering to Sera. “Did Mistress Phebe make that dress for you? She’s the best there is in Pelago, isn’t she? She’s making one very much like it for me. What was that language you were speaking earlier? Are you from the northern islands? My mother says they speak funny up there. I like your headdress too, it’s awfully ornate. Isn’t it hurting your head, though? They’re heavy. You can take it off now if you’d like.”

Though he couldn’t see her face, Leo could tell Sera was bemused by all the questions. He certainly was. They had entered a hall with golden carpets and gold sconces on the walls and every door had a golden knob. It was all making Leo’s temples throb. Sera pulled off the headdress and Rahel let out a shriek.

“Saifa!” she cried.

Leo was getting very good at explaining that Sera wasn’t Saifa. But it was even easier with Rahel because she seemed to decide after a moment that she did not care who Sera was. Especially not after Leo told her they weren’t actually engaged.

“What did you dye her hair with?” Rahel asked. “She would have caused a scene in the market. Is that why she’s dressed like your bride? That’s a brilliant idea, you are so smart. I heard the Byrnes are smart but also cruel, that’s what Mother says. She says they’re out for power. Ambrosine wanted to marry Hektor to a Triumvirate princess but they all said no, even the Lekke. I was too young, though, when she asked. Wouldn’t it have been grand, a Byrne marrying a Renalt? But Mother didn’t like that much. Which Byrne are you?”

“Alethea’s son,” Leo said. He could hardly keep up with Rahel’s questions and found he was too tired to lie.

“So you’re Kaolin!” Rahel exclaimed. “How exciting.” She opened a door to a parlor with golden chairs upholstered in pale pink, gleaming mirrors encrusted with pearls, and a gilded table set with a stunning array of desserts.

“What a beautiful room,” Leo said, because he felt that was what was expected of him.

Rahel beamed. “I designed it myself. Wait until you see where I sleep! I’ve got a pink comforter and pink pillows and a golden dresser. Do you like pink?” she said to Sera, then just as quickly turned back to Leo. “Can you make her talk again? Her voice is so pretty.”

“I’m not a windup toy,” Sera said, and Rahel applauded.