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. He

very good.

of the princes their own appetizer. Nicholas touched my hand a moment longer than needed as he accepted his. Pride shone bright in his eyes, which warmed me up from

the Queen, however, she simply looked at me blankly, and

accept it.

it back to the table. “Whenever you are ready.”

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

didn’t discuss any of

eye, to ask her what she thought she was doing, but she didn’t

bother glancing my

I didn’t want her inferior selection to

the spirit of the event.” Linda huffed.

+15 BONUS

of her dried–out deviled eggs and handed it to the Queen, who eagerly accepted it.

our display is the way it is. Had I been partnered with someone

nodded critically, as if they agreed with what Linda was