"And I am", Neera said, just as the musicians took another tune. It was softer, slower, dappling the hall in a smooth rhythm. The wine made her head sway. It had been so long since she had such intoxicating goodness, she feared she wouldn't be able to hold out too long for the rest of the night.
From the corner of her eyes, Neera saw a flash of golden and red. Zavian was speaking with a Duke, and from the way his arms were crossed and his face hardened with a frown, it looked serious. The Duke leaned close to the King and whispered something into his ear.
"Even tonight of all nights, he can't take a break," Jasmine sighed. Neera saw she was looking at Zavian too, and with a faraway look. "I was hoping this party would take his mind off things, forget everything for just one night. But it seems I failed."
