Kasmeri had emerged from the banquet hall, his posture composed, his eyes bright with restrained fire.
"Forgive my directness," he said calmly, "but I will not allow such an assumptions to stand unchallenged. The tributes presented to Westalis were all conceived, designed, and crafted by the Gabriella Guild — a guild consisting entirely of women."
The Crown Prince studied him. He do not look like an ordinary merchant. He has the bearing of a prince. Was he a prince in disguise?
Slowly, he leaned back — and then laughed.
But this time, the sound was smooth, controlled.
"Is that so?" he said lightly, raising both hands in a gesture of surrender that felt more mocking than apologetic. "How careless of me. I might lose my head if I continue insulting such capable women."
His gaze slid back to Lara — calculating, appraising.
"I believe you," he added softly. "For now."
