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DARCIE'S HEIR TO THE SEELIE court, yet the thought of meeting with the Elders of La Push (who Darcie's met before and grown up with), leaves her hands clammy. But Darcie wants peace in her home — she wants to bring two worlds together once again.
Outside Sue's house, Sam opens the front door, being the one to meet them.
"They're ready for you," says Sam. "But only you, Darcie."
"Not a chance," Cersi tells the alpha.
"Cersi's right," Darcie confirms, keeping her chin high. "The agreement was that we came empty-handed, but I won't be attending alone, Sam. Everyone here is with me."
Six might be pushing it, but it was only two more than the Quileute pack. Of course, Darcie could not attend something like this without her guard, but she also needed their guidance and support. Plus, her three best friends were not just there for her but were also witnesses — proof that Darcie being Fae doesn't mean she deserves to be banished.
"You're lucky it's not seven," Darcie adds. "My dad wanted to be here too."
"Did you really expect Darcie to face something like this alone?" Embry questions. "After everything you've put her through?"
"I've been alone too much, Sam," Darcie reminds him.
"I know," Sam says, turning away from the group in shame. "Darcie, you can lead this new treaty however you see best."
Darcie doesn't want to be in charge, she just wants to be seen as an equal to them, but she's willing to lead them if needed. However, she remains silent for now as they follow Sam into Sue Clearwater's house. There's silence as she spots the three Elders in the living area: Sue Clearwater, who has taken over for her late husband; Billy Black, who offers Darcie a smile; and then Quil's grandfather.
"Sue," says Darcie, speaking first. "I'm so sorry about Harry."
"Thank you," Sue replies, smiling warmly. "On behalf of us all, Darcie, I'm so sorry for how we've treated you in the past."
"It was never personal," Billy adds.
"I accept your apology," says Darcie, knowing they needed to start forgiving and healing. "But you have to understand that it was personal to me. Not only did you make me believe I was a monster, but you also drove everyone I loved away from me. But, what you broke, I have fixed. I'm Darcie, but I'm also Princess Naila of the Seelie Court."
Darcie's eyes run across all four of them — determined to hold them accountable. Even if they were apologising and felt the guilt, they were still continuing to discriminate within their own tribe. Since Darcie's return, Leah has been an example of that.
"Would you prefer us to call you Darcie or Naila?" Billy asks.
"You can call me whichever you prefer," Darcie offers. "After all, it's you who has seen me differently when I have always seen you as Billy."
