After settling Krista safely in a room at the inn, the envoys of Azurverda began their preparations for the afternoon's banquet. Under the relentless urging of the men—Kasmeri, Netser, Bernard, Aramis, and even Logan—Lara finally surrendered her disguise. With a resigned sigh, she shed Kane Mendel's attire and stepped into a flowing crimson gown that clung to her like living fire.
"Empress, you look lovely," Nympha breathed, her eyes bright with admiration. "Thank you for coming as yourself. If I were the only woman among us, I don't think I'd have the courage to walk through those doors."
"You should feel honored," Bernard teased, looping an arm around his wife. "The only rose among these thorns. Though tonight, it seems my beautiful wife will have competition."
