The Luna Choosing Game

Forgive me, Your Majesty, but we had given consideration to the spirit of the event,” I said.

It wasn’t totally a lie. I had given some thought about how our divided display could still indicate some measure of cooperation, even if Linda hadn’t.

“Explain yourself,” the Queen said.

I motioned toward our display. “At first glance, our table is divided, which could reflect the deep disagreements between us and our adversaries. Yet if you look closer, you will notice that our selections actually complement each other.”

The Luna and King pressed in closer to the display, peering at where I suggested. Behind them, Nicholas. and Julian gave me supportive looks – a full smile from Julian, a partial from Nicholas. Joyce continued

to look off into the distance, disinterested.

“Linda’s cold selection and my warm one offer an exploration of taste. The drinks in between act as a palate cleanser, when needed. Individually, we could stand alone fine, but when presented together, we

are better.”

I lifted one of the stuffed mushrooms and handed it to the King.

“Much like diplomatic relations, we bring two different individualities together in a united front.”

Then he bit into the stuffed mushroom.

good. Try one.”

own appetizer. Nicholas touched my hand a moment longer than needed as he accepted

simply looked at me blankly, and

accept it.

it back to the table. “Whenever you are

outrageous,” Linda said suddenly, claiming everyone’s attention. “Piper’s talking out of her

didn’t discuss any

catch her eye, to ask her

glancing my

divided because I didn’t want her inferior selection to be anywhere near my

spirit of the event.” Linda huffed. “But

+15 BONUS

her dried–out deviled eggs and handed it to the

stay within their own boundaries and do as they are told,” Linda said. “That is why our display is the way it is. Had I been partnered with someone on my own level, I would have been

and Queen nodded critically, as if they agreed with what Linda was