Sapphire smiled, knowing it was now her turn.

‘Tell me about the Canmore line. I read a bit with Fyra in our lessons, but I’d like to hear it from you. What is our legacy, truly?’

Araxia’s eyes brightened at the question.

‘I’ve always wanted to pass on the legends to my daughter.’ She settled against the sand, preparing herself. ‘The Canmore line was and still is a miracle. Born from the Elders’ blessings, they entrusted the original Canmore queen to lead Eriobis into a brighter age after the First War. Aylara was her name, and they blessed her with unmatched power. Each generation would bear an heir to the throne – the next queen in line. And it has persisted for a thousand years … and it will persist for the next thousand, and the next beyond that. The Elders’ prophecy called for the reign of Canmore to continue till the end of moons.’

Araxia paused, staring out at the water.

‘I am the youngest queen ever to take the crown. My mother and father passed unexpectedly when I was quite young. I’m not sure I was exactly ready, but I had Kip and a love for this country to guide me.’

Sapphire felt herself soften for the woman sitting beside her. The queen did not speak, but only continued to look out at the water.

‘I bet she’s proud of you,’ Sapphire said. ‘Queen Raya. I bet she loves what you have become.’

‘Do you, now?’ she asked, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.

‘I do,’ Sapphire added softly. ‘Do you think I’m fit to be the next queen?’

Araxia looked surprised. ‘I thought it was my turn to ask a question?’ Amusement was warm and thick like a balm in her voice.

‘Hardly,’ Sapphire countered, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. ‘Doesn’t matter how small the question, a truth was offered. The rules are the rules for a reason.’

‘I do,’ Araxia replied with so much certainty it made Sapphire’s chest ache, the smile finally reaching her eyes, warming them to a near clover green. ‘What you feel … the doubt, the fear, the questions – it’s all very natural. I’d be more worried if you didn’t.’

‘Why do you say that?’

‘Because it would mean you’re a fool. You’re a Canmore queen, Sapphire. Or you will be, one day.’ She looked back up at the sky. ‘Canmores do not suffer fools gladly.’

The confidence in her voice, her conviction, and belief – those weren’t things Sapphire was used to hearing.

‘May I ask one more question?’

Araxia smiled, patting her arm.

‘You may ask as many questions as you like. With or without the guise of a game.’

‘Why did you name me after the original Canmore queen?