Page 149 of In Violent Waves

“Stunning.”

“Gorgeous.”

They beamed at each other and laughed. They each embodied the land from which they came.

Maelys the Wilds, and Lyra, Atlantis.

“Are you ready?” Maelys asked.

Lyra looked at Daisy for confirmation.

“As ready as she’ll ever be.”

Maelys nodded. “We’ll be back after the feast and first dance to get ready for the real celebrations.”

Daisy’s face turned an astonishing red. “I’ll be here.”

“You don’t go to the ball?” Lyra asked, realizing Daisy was still in her servant’s uniform.

Daisy shook her head. “Only the court goes to the ball.”

Lyra’s brow furrowed. She did not like that at all. “That’s not fair.”

Maelys nodded. “I’ve been after Wilder about it for ages. But he has no say in it.”

Lyra approached Daisy. “I can stay with you if you like?”

Daisy shook her head and gripped Lyra’s hand. “And waste all my hard work? Absolutely not! Go enjoy yourself. You deserve some happiness, Lyra.” It made her heart ache, and Lyra had to ball her hands into fists at her side to keep from clutching at her chest.

“Thank you, Daisy. You’re too kind.”

“There’s no such thing.”

“We’ll be back soon,” Maelys trilled from the door, and Lyra followed. This ball better be spectacular, or she was going to feel awful for leaving Daisy behind.

Every single flat surface was covered with flowers. The picture frames lining the hallways, the bases of statues, and even the banisters were draped with flora. Lilies, tulips, baby’s breath, hydrangeas, heather, foxtail, and many more she did not know the name of.

Small flames flickered in tiny tea lights. And the smells. Gods, the divine smells. Citrus and floral, and something sweet. It was immaculate.

“Is it like this every year?” Lyra asked as they waltzed down the hallway.

“Pretty much.”

The flower petals on Maelys’ dress fluttered behind her, and Lyra admired how exquisite it was.

“And this is like a real ball? With dancing?”

Maelys glanced sideways at her. “Of course. Why?”

Lyra shrugged, and her gown flowed and waved like a waterfall. “I don’t know how.”

Maelys pursed her lips. “Ridge and I can teach you. It’s easy.”

Lyra nodded, but unease coiled around her. There was no way she was going to make a fool of herself tonight, especially in front of Wilder.

They reached the doorway of the grand ballroom, and Maelys stopped. Peering at the open doors and the nonexistent line.

“We’re probably the last two to arrive, since there is no line. They’ll announce you and then walk in. That’s it.”