“As has been noted,” Nayan put in, “guests from around the realm have already begun to arrive, the betrotheds have withdrawn in preparation for tomorrow’s royal picnic, and with the newly reinforced magical defenses in place, Garuda himself could not hope to break through.” When no one contradicted him, his steely manner mellowed. “In short, we have all earned a respite. I invite you now to enjoy the fruits of your labor at tomorrow’s celebration.”

Unsurprisingly, most of the dignitaries applauded at that. Venkat never could have predicted that. Nagas and their parties.

“I believe that is the entirety of our agenda for today,” King Vasuki said. “Our thanks and gratitude to each of the clans for coming together as one in these trying times. As a result, we will not only endure but flourish.” Beside him, Queen Naga Yakshi’s enigmatic expression bore all the allure of twilight.

As the dignitaries rose and filed out of the council chamber, they paused to pay tribute to the nagaraja and nagarani, as was tradition. But Asha’s parents first stopped to greet Nayan.

From behind them, Karan sneered at Venkat, then slithered off. Venkat could almost respect him for it. At least Karan didn’t hide what he really thought.

Politics was a sham. Venkat had been wasting time placating self-important nobles that he could have spent on his experiments. Or at least on the project with Nayan, the one that was supposed to heal everything.

They were all pretending. All of them.

His bitterness had grown so strong he didn’t know how the chamber wasn’t submerged in it.

“I am saddened to learn you will be unable to join us tomorrow, Lord Nayan,” Asha’s father said, “but I recognize the burden of your many obligations. Take good rest, so that you are refreshed for the nuptials.”

Nayan waggled his head. “I am deeply obliged for your kindness. The picnic is certain to be a lively event.”

“To say the least!” Asha’s mother said. “Well, Lord Nayan, your apprentice is certainly a credit to you.”

“You flatter me,” Venkat said politely, itching to hightail it out of there.

Asha’s mother beamed at him, a perfect older version of her daughter. “Nonsense! You have been a kind and supportive friend to our Asha, who needs that more than ever.”

Venkat nodded, but he was only half listening. Supportive friend. To whom, exactly? Asha didn’t want the wedding he was working so hard to make happen. Tanvi? He gave a mental snort.

The truth had been there all along, if he’d only paid attention. Like Nitya had said, boons took years and years of dedication to obtain; it was a big deal for a sage to receive one. Yet Nayan had Venkat doling them out to the dream runners as pacifiers.

Where was the logic in that?