Royally Not Ready(42)

“I’ll put it on the itinerary,” I say. “Now, the capital is another region in the country. That’s where the main population lives, as well as being the location of Strombly Palace.”

“What is the total population of the country?”

“About twenty thousand.”

“Gosh, Miami has a bigger population than that. I can see why traditions are so strong here.”

“It’s what we live by. Now, since the capital region is where most of the population is located, all the houses are lined up in rows, one right next to the other, only differing in height and bright colors. There aren’t many yards, nor is there much space, but when you’re trying to fit a population into fifteen percent of habitable land, things are going to be tight. But there’s a lot of open space as well, which creates more of a community amongst neighbors.”

“Fascinating. Are there tall buildings?”

I shake my head. “No, none, actually. The tallest building in the capital is the watchtower of Strombly. Every other building is either one-story or two-stories, even places of business. It’s truly unlike any capital city you’ll ever see. Nothing like Miami.”

“I can’t wait to see it,” she says dreamily.

“Now, on the west side of the island, you’ll find the biggest waterfall in the country, as well as the largest fishing port. The town is called Kirkfell. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, the town focuses on tourists, offering multiple tours up to the hot springs, bed-and-breakfast options, as well as the best place to get fermented cod cakes.”

She places her hand on my shoulder and levels a stare. “Tell me, how do they really taste?”

“Not bad, actually. Paired with the right sauce, they’re pretty good.”

“I’m guessing I’m going to have to eat one at some point.”

“You are, they’re served everywhere, and it’s insulting to the people if you don’t accept their gift. Any gift, for that matter, including fermented cod cakes.”

“Does Brimar make them?”

“He does. He makes the right sauce that has a hint of heat.”

“I can handle heat. Maybe he needs to make them one night.” She smirks. “So, if tourists come to Torskethorpe, they normally visit Kirkfell?”

“Yes. They float between Kirkfell and the capital. Since the capital is more inland, there aren’t whale watching tours or the quaint seaside-town feel that tourists seem to enjoy, but the capital does offer quite a few driving tours that are very popular.”

“Okay, you told me about the west, what about the east?”

“The prettiest part of the country, in my opinion. It’s the only place on the island where the land is off limits. There are guards that protect that side of the country, round-the-clock security.”

“Why’s it so important?”

“It’s where the birch forest exists, the only remaining indigenous trees on the island, as well as the sacred moss that takes over one thousand years to grow. The area is lush and green and free of any volcanic activity. It’s pure in nature, one of the prettiest sights you’ll ever see. Like . . . nirvana in the middle of a desolate, lava rock-filled land.”

“Sounds dreamy. Do they do tours?”

“Yes, but only electric vehicles are allowed near the east side. They’re trying to preserve nature the best they can.”

“I love that. So, I’m assuming the east side is your favorite?”

I shake my head. “The prettiest, by far, but my favorite part of the country? We’re in it right now.”

“The southern peninsula? Why?”

“My parents took me here on their days off. We fished off the coast, camped down by the hot springs, and enjoyed the outdoors. I have a lot of memories down here.”

“Where are your parents now?” she asks.

I look out to the ocean and quietly say, “They passed when I was twelve. A fire occurred in the servant quarters, and they couldn’t get out.”

“Oh my God.” She grips my hand in hers. “Keller, I’m so sorry. That must have been horrific.”

“It’s in the past,” I say, clearing my throat and sitting taller. “Not something I talk about.”

“Well, if anyone understands what it means to lose their parents, I have experience, so if you ever need to talk—”

“I’m fine, Lilly,” I say, sharper than I want while releasing my hand from hers. “Now, about the north.”

“Keller,” she says softly, while grabbing my hand again.

I let out a giant sigh and look her in the eyes, knowing she’s not going to drop this. “Lilly, I’m fine, okay? I don’t talk about it, because when I do, it dredges up old memories that haunt me. So, please, just drop it.”

She nods, thankfully. “Okay.” Then she says, “The north, what’s there?”

“The volcanoes and glaciers,” I say, realizing she’s still holding my hand, and for some stupid reason, I let her.

At least I got her to change the subject so I don’t have to relive that horrendous day.





“It’s called kulning.”

“Kulning,” she says, testing the word on her tongue. “And if you do it the right way, a herd of sheep will flock in from miles away?”