“You’re here for that power gem, yes? It seems as though you’ve finally discovered what it does. So you tell me, what price do you think I should ask for?” The Empress smiled wolfishly at Lan Jue, a telling light in her eyes.
“Aren’t we the greedy one,” Lan Jue muttered.
The Empress simply laughed, swaying back towards her guests. “Aww, who says I’m greedy? You just want a star map? It’s yours.”
As she spoke she lifted her right hand. Empty, a light shone in her palm – dimly at first, but growing until it encompassed the appendage. When it receded she bore a silver disk, which she handed to Lan Jue.
Lan Jue made no shows of courtesy, taking up the disk and handing it to Ke’er, who stood at his side.
“Thanks. I owe you a favor. We’ll be on our way.” Saying his piece, he turned and began to make his way from the white chamber. He had no intention to linger any longer than he had to.
“Stop right there!” The Empress’ charming voice interrupted.
