“Everything you desire of mine is here before you, Men. My throne…my woman. I can think of no place more suitable to fight than here where those treasures lie. And besides, if I must defend them, then why not do it where I can view them? Surely even you would agree to this.”

Menakam shrugged, glancing about the Imperial Ballroom with indifference. “Too bad you play fair, brother. Otherwise, you’d be dead already.”

“Do you agree to have our battle here, Men, or not?” Dammen demanded.

“Let’s get on with it!” Menakam growled back, by way of agreement.

Dammen snorted, then took Casina’s hand and led her across the ballroom...