All the Tides of Fate (All the Stars and Teeth #2) - Adalyn Grace Page 0,4

Garrison,” I say tersely, satisfied at the way his eyes narrow in surprise. “I’m very aware of how far you’ve traveled. I’m certainly happy to listen to everyone’s—”

“In the past,” he says, rolling over my words as though I haven’t spoken, “King Audric would open these meetings with each of us presenting our own thoughts and needs for the islands we represent, rather than opening himself—”

At the mention of Father, something in me snaps. Mother’s hand finds my knee beneath the table, squeezing it in warning. But her presence isn’t enough to prevent the malice that cracks my smile.

Lord Garrison was always loyal to Father, but like the rest of the advisers, he was politely cold to me. Up until this past fall, I was hardly allowed any interaction with the advisers. Father held too many secrets; until I earned the title of heir to the throne, I was never allowed details of these meetings. It was purposeless and frustrating, especially now as I sit at the head of a room, meant to lead a group of advisers who hardly know me and whose trust they believe I’ve not yet earned.

But they’re mistaken. I earned my place on this throne the moment I stabbed Kaven. I earned this seat with his blood and mine. I earned it with my magic, and the sacrifice of every life I took to get here.

Trust be damned. I’ve earned this crown with my soul.

“Thank you for letting me know how my father ran things. We all know he was a perfect ruler, never making a single mistake.” I straighten in my seat, pinning my eyes to Lord Garrison’s. “And considering how I was never allowed in those meetings, and that no one ever thought to include me, your information is very helpful. But I’d like to remind you, Lord Garrison, that my father is dead.” I don’t look away as he flinches, nor do I turn to Mother as her hand goes limp on my thigh. Instead, I keep my focus trained on the Suntosan adviser as he shifts with discomfort.

When he opens his mouth to speak, I hold up my hand and continue. “However the late king used to rule doesn’t matter, because he’s no longer the one who sits on the throne; I am. I’m not sure if you felt it was okay to condescend to me because I’m a woman, because of my age, or simply because I’m new to this position and you felt the need to establish some sort of dominance you do not and will never have. But the next time you open your mouth to speak to me, remember that you’re talking to your queen. Do you understand?”

From the corner of my eye, I catch Mornute’s adviser slack-jawed in their seat while the others look away in uncomfortable silence. Lord Garrison’s face turns scarlet, and I’m glad for his embarrassment. He deserves it.

“I understand, Your Majesty,” he practically huffs, as if uncertain whether to be surprised or apologetic.

“Good. Then I suppose we can continue with the discussion I’ve laid out?” I roll my shoulders back, making it a point to show that I’m relaxed, and not a tensed coil ready to spring again. “I am, of course, interested in discussing the aforementioned ‘changes,’ as well, as I suggested before your outburst. We can start with Leo.” Mornute’s adviser turns to me, and I smile once more, trying to ease their shock. Though most of the advisers are reserved, this one is still so new that they wear their expressions clearly on their face, and I like it. It makes me trust them more than most in this room.

Leo jolts to attention and grabs the parchment before them, rifling through it to gather their thoughts. “I want to discuss how the abolishment of this law will negatively impact our island. Our port town, Ikae, is the largest tourist destination in all Visidia, and is our most prominent source of income. We worry that if our magic makes its way to other islands, we’ll no longer be able to generate the same tourism we currently do. If anyone can make their town dazzling with enchantments, why will ours continue to be so appealing? I’m worried Mornute will be looking at a massive decrease in income due to this change.”

Their worry is a legitimate one, but it’s one I’ve already considered. “You’re right that this law will change things,” I tell Leo. “But Visidia has been due for a change