Sabine continued to explain the basic properties of the flowers Karl held. Karl had apparently found quite a number for her. Although he did not use each flower to pass a compliment, they were evidently enjoying themselves.

Meanwhile, Lunise looked on at the pair. She kept her arms loosely around Meesei. Her only relent was to adjust her collar to allow her neck to cool.

"Having children has never been more than a curiosity to me," Lunise said. "Even if I found a man I liked, I am far too busy. The last thing I would wish is to let a child of mine go without a proper mother."

Lunise adjusted to look at Meesei. "I am impressed that you wrought a girl like Sabine with your circumstances. I cannot imagine it being easy. But with all the love you have, she is a most bright and fortunate woman."

[hr]
"If nothing else, it will send a message that we are capable of killing them if we wanted to," Fendros said. "I was honestly surprised that Oswall didn't stand up and leave outright."

When Ahnasha took a seat, Fendros did not sit down immediately. Instead, he reached for the bottle, carefully took it to have a sip himself, and laid it back in Ahnasha's hands.

"Sit still for a moment," Fendros said. He stepped behind Ahnasha and began to rub her shoulders. "Do you think you can pull this plan off?"