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The Vraxian’s scales shaded to puce. Kara thought his head might explode.

“Maybe we can play this to our advantage,” mused Rhyn. “If she wins, it will be seen as a sign from the gods that she’s destined to be our Zhaalini. The people would be much more likely to accept her.”

Baelon snorted.

“If she wins? You seriously expect anedekhuman to defeat a phalanx of Vraxian Potentials who’ve been trained for this moment? They will tear her apart.”

“Don’t count on it, snake-shit,” Kara retorted. “I could kickyourass without breaking a sweat.”

Baelon straightened in anger and Vahn forestalled him.

“She’s right. Don’t underestimate her. She is more formidable than she looks. Still, the contest is a complication.”

“A conundrum,” agreed Rhyn.

Baelon was quiet for a long moment.

“Perhaps I am being too hasty,” he said eventually. “Perhaps you are right, my Zhaal. If you truly think she is resourceful enough to compete, you have my full support.”

He thinks he’s won,Kara realized.He thinks either Vahn will drop his plan or I’ll get murdered by a bunch of love-sick groupies.

Something – jealousy? Impetuousness? – shot through her and she found herself speaking out.

“I don’t care how hard it is. I’ll do it.”

Rhyn looked amused.

“You have guts, I’ll say that for you. But it’ll be tough. No holds barred.”

“Good. Bring it on.”

“Don’t be a fool,” Ela said curtly. “This isn’t a competition you can win.”

“Yeah? Watch me.”

Vahn held up his hand to stop further argument.

“Everyone, I need to have a private word with Kara,” he said. “Let’s reconvene later. Ela, take the handcuffs off.”

“I do not advise you being alone with a…”

“Ela, now.”

The general’s face tightened. She removed the thick metal from Kara’s wrists and left the room without saying another word. Vahn shot a meaningful glance at Baelon and Rhyn, and they followed suit.

In the sudden quietness, the two looked at each other.

“Nice crown,” Kara said snarkily. “Surprised they found one to fit your fat head.”

“What do you think of my plan?”

“Brilliant. Right up to the part where I have to fight an army of Vraxian women for you.”

“That is unfortunate.”

“Great for your ego, though.”

A smile tugged at his lips.