Marik turned toward the bed, frowned, then shook his head.
"She's no one important," he said. "I didn't even notice she was there."
Jasmine stared at him, shocked.
"You didn't notice a full-grown woman, almost naked, on your bed?"
"It's not what you think," Marik said, stepping closer.
Jasmine held up a hand. "All right."
Then she turned and stepped back onto the balcony.
"Jasmine, wait—"
She didn't stop. Marik contemplating going after her but the generals were waiting for him. He walked to the bed
....
"Hey you, slave girl," a voice called from behind Nerida.
She stiffened, then quickly lowered her head. She was dressed like the others — plain clothes, dull colors, nothing that drew any attention. Just another common werewolf slave.
She had already entered the castle and met with Mira, and now she was leading her to her father's den.
