When the centre of the sun was still fully exposed on the timekeeper, Irenya returned to spotless rooms and changed her clothes for Mikey’s instatement ceremony. In the main foyer, she joined the dignitaries and watched as Dar Orien’s new MageGate walked down the marble staircase with Elaaron. Kiel had done a very nice job of dressing Mikey. She gave him a reassuring hug and patted his deep blue jacket.
‘You look fabulous, Mikey. Nervous?’
‘Bit. Wish Kael-baby woz here.’
‘Elaaron will be at your side. I’ll be in the front row with Alara and the physicians. You’ll be fine.’
The ambassadors and their wives filed out first, down the flight of steps into the large square. Irenya and Alara followed. They joined the chattering community of Ilkyrie, from soldiers to farriers, dressmakers to g
