The Luna Choosing Game

He motioned for the Queen, who stepped forward. “Maintaining diplomatic relations is one of the most

essential rules for a Luna. Finding common ground with those often considered to be your enemies is a

vital piece of this diplomacy.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Nathan said.

The girls and I clapped politely.

“Now, we will announce the winners of this event. This pair has shown the best overall cooperation, as

well as individual talent in both cooking and presentation.”

“It’s not going to be me,” Susie said softly, worrying her hands together.

I whispered to her, “At least your partner knew how to cook.”

Susie smiled a little and it felt like a victory.

“The winners are.” Nathan paused for dramatic effect. “Olivia and Megan!”

Olivia gasped, then laughed in faux disbelief. She pulled Megan beside her into a sideways hug. They

contact, though they hid it with tight, overly–friendly smiles.

clapped, as directed by

clapping was over, Nathan continued

and be personally

to the front, Nathan added, “This win will earn you each a

girls in turn, while the rest of us were

watch.

“Now, girls. Which of our three princes

Olivia had

in his face seemed to age

him, Julian laughed and laughed. Joyce looked bored.

“Surely you have

+15 BONUS

cleared his throat. 7 gratuitously accept.” He handed

a moment. Had he expected him to

“He

I agreed

dispersed, to take Elva to see him, to hopefully cheer

around for a while, talking with Susie and helping her take her display apart. Her partner,

as shy as Susie was,

date with Joyce.” Susie said, which made

she said. “No one seems interested in him.” Softer, she added, “But I think he’s the