“You cannot expect me to have an answer at my fingertips, just like that! It’s a big decision. I need time to think it over.”

It wasn’t the answer he wanted. His nostrils flapped as he took in a calming breath. “What is there to think over? Your life will be better with us than back on Yanlin. We offer power, wealth and the right to live as a female. We offer you a future family. Children! Can your old island offer so much?”

“Indeed not. You offer me more than I dared hope for.”

“Then what is there to think over?” Talon’s brows were a thick, flat line. No hoops of smugness to be seen.

“I cannot consider myself only.”

“Who else? Your uncle? I understood most of your family is dead. Or do you still hold some quaint ideas about loyalty to your Elders and the island?”

“Not at all,” Storm said, as calmly as she could. “But I answer to the Elemental spirits who granted me magic. The Albatross and Dolphin have plans for me. I am sure you have no wish to offend the Elementals.”

“Offend the…” Talon stared at her blankly, his face chalky beneath the layer of paint. The assembled guests muttered. Betaan’s black-rimmed eyes popped wide. None of them had thought about the beings who had bestowed her with magic, just what her power could do for them.

“Do you think magic is given with no strings attached?” Storm asked.

“But…” Talon was almost stammering. “Surely it could make no difference to the spirits! Other witches change allegiance from island to island all the time.”

“If I was like other witches I wouldn’t be here.”

Talon’s eyes narrowed as he peered at her, trying to read her intentions. Everything hinged on this moment.

“You want me for a friend.” Storm was amazed at how calm her voice sounded. “I want that too. You wouldn’t like me as an enemy – ask the Drowned Ones. And I don’t think you want the Albatross and Dolphin as your enemies either. Or the Tortoise, of course,” she added thoughtfully.

Her opponent licked his lips. Sweat beaded on his forehead, trickled down, marring his face paint. “Can you ask the Elementals if they object to your change of allegiance?”

“I can try,” Storm lied solemnly. “But it will take time.”

“If you gain their assent, you will agree to our terms?”

“The Pact’s generosity is overwhelming. I am deeply honoured!” Storm hoped her words would be taken as assent. Her heart thudded; had she won herself time?