The message arrived during breakfast, delivered by a creature I'd only read about in the books Aaliyah had given me.
A messenger mer, with scales that shimmered every colour simultaneously and eyes that held the depth of trenches. It materialised from the fountain in the cafeteria, causing students to scatter and scream.
"Zara Okonkwo," it said in a voice like waves on rocks. "The Queen of the Western Court acknowledges your existence. She offers challenge. Single combat. If you win, your mother goes free and you gain recognition as legitimate bloodline. If you lose, you submit to court authority and accept imprisonment. You have one moon cycle to prepare. The challenge cannot be refused."
It vanished before I could respond.
The cafeteria erupted into whispers.
"Well," Susan said calm
