“Why not?” Apollo chimed in. “Anyone is free to choose a pirate’s life, so long as the only thing that goes missing is a couple gold coins, gems, or jewels. I think that is fair, don’t you?”

A second bout of happy murmurs and cheers carried through the chamber.

Just then, the oversized bone doors opened. An unscathed Yemma walked through, her smile as radiant as her purple skirt.

Gasps sounded.

“My sisters,” Yemma shouted. Her gaze darted to Rylander, then me. She nodded, gratitude in her diamond eyes. “We are free at last. I appreciate the emperor and our mother pronouncing their faith in me to lead. But a new day has dawned. I will not be queened without the full support of our people.”

Calliope crossed her arms as I stood, helping Rylander do the same. We leaned on each other to keep upright.

“You want them to vote?” Rylander asked, face lifting with genuine curiosity.

“I do, Emperor, if that is acceptable to your will.”

I hadn’t realized the title of emperor held such weight, but the sirens’ awed gawking left a hush over the room stronger than even a king could command. Though Lorelei’s reign had fed off bloodshed and greed, her rulings were still held in high regard.

“It is.” He dipped his chin.

Apollo stepped forward. “All in favor of Yemma as Siren Queen, raise your hand.”

Like the start of a tidal wave, fingers shot up in the air. A sea of talons rose to the ceiling. Not one subject disagreed with the vote.

Tears welled in Yemma’s eyes as she took a knee. “I am honored.”

Apollo snapped his fingers, and a purple crown of coral appeared between them. He walked to Yemma and held the tiara above her bent head. “By the sovereignty of the gods, I pronounce you Siren Queen. Set forth and lead your people in peace. Regard yourself as protector of man, at all costs.” He placed the crown on her head. Strands of red hair wove around its base, securing it to her. “We honor you today as the leader of your people. We pray to the gods for their favor on your journey. And we accept your servitude for the rest of your life.”

Yemma stood. “May we live in harmony with the humans. And may the Fates smile upon us all.”

Calliope slipped her hand in Yemma’s as Rylander left my support and hobbled to Yemma’s other side. He interlaced his fingers with her free hand. The three of them raised their joined hands to the sky, a perfect semblance of unity.

“Today marks the ratification of the Treaty of Anthemusa,” Rylander said. “I shall bring this glorious news back to all the kingdoms. May the Fates smile upon you.”

The sirens hollered and rejoiced in thanks. The pool sloshed and splashed, revealing slivers of blue—a promise of restoration to come.