Effie sighed.
"Damn cheater."
As she did, the two of them heard the sound of hurried steps rushing toward the secluded rampart. She winced and kicked one of the balls lightly.
"I guess that's my cue. I am supposed to be at the waterfront in a short while, welcoming the gathered crowd and warming them up before Nephis takes the stage… my subordinates love nothing more than parading me in front of people. Something about making their blood flow faster."
She glanced at Sunny and asked.
"Did you find me just to chat, or did you want something?"
Sunny shrugged.
"No real reason. I guess I wanted to know if you are joining me for Cassie's thing — if so, I would have caught a ride in your shadow. Getting there by myself is a hassle, considering how thorough the defensive array is."
Effie shook her head.
"What's the point of my going there? It's not exactly my field of expertise."
Sunny grinned.
"Fast-flowing blood is a bit of a universal advantage, though."
