and did a flip, returning to watch the rest of the ceremony.
As each shark in turn was emblazoned with the star Lilliana twisted her hand deep into Spectrum’s mane and sighed with gratitude. She leaned her head against his warm neck and listened to his heart thumping deep within his chest. He nuzzled her arm and looked at her. They didn’t need words to show their love. This horse had indeed been a gift to her and a gift to the kingdom.
The last shark to receive his star was Smiley. He looked up in surprise as he felt the power of the star upon him and he immediately swam to Lance.
“I feel lighter. Is this what it’s like to be forgiven?”
“Yes,” Lance replied with a smile. “You’re forgiven by the Star and I forgive you too.”
Smiley grinned, pulling back his strange lips and showing rows of sharp teeth. Lilliana flinched: he might belong to the star, but his grin was still unnerving. He turned and swam back to the group who were to receive their instructions and training.
“This has been one long day,” sighed Lilliana.
Spectrum nickered and pushed up under her so she was on his back. With no further warning he trotted back through the growing crowd of citizens. The fish looked up and waved as Lilliana and Spectrum swam past. They went around a recognizable bend and towards a small cave in the wall.
Lilliana walked into the familiar cave and the little glow worms lit up the entrance, and then scooted away from Spectrum as he followed. The bed of sponges waved softly in the warm light and Lilliana fell on them gratefully.
“Can I stay with you?” a little voice asked.
Lilliana tuned to look in the corner by the sponge-bed. “Of course Spike. This place wouldn’t feel like home without you.”
Spike let out a small sigh of contentment and deflated to lie on the floor by her bed. As Lilliana turned her sleepy eyes towards Spectrum she saw his alert form outlined against the window. Her guardian would watch over her. She nestled into her pillow and slept soundly.