Book Seven: Chapter 110

“By what mechanism?” asked Leilani, her voice quieter than usual.

“This man is an outsider, daughter of the waters.” The goddess stepped past Mike to confront the mermaid. “He knows not of the old traditions, nor can we expect him to understand. This place was never meant for his kind, and yet they have taken it. Our ancestral lands now belong to men and women of means, some who rarely walk our shores. These islands were not created for those who worship greed and power. I have been here since the beginning, and shall judge him in whatever manner seems fit.”

“I am princess Leilani, of the--”

The goddess held up her hand, and Leilani froze. “I’m not interested in your opinions. You have not known him long, and I can smell him on your flesh. When you get to be my age, you learn that the whims of youth are no excuse for the wisdom of experience.” She then turned to Opal. “As for you, I have no idea what manner of creature you are. You are made from the stuff of gods,