“Thanks,” Valena whispers back to Erica. In a louder voice she adds, “Luciana was just about to go. Isn’t that right, Luciana?” She locks eyes with Luciana, and an intense staring contest takes place, neither woman willing to admit defeat.<br/><br/>Finally, Luciana is the one who looks away, turning her gaze towards a potted palm at a corner of the gallery. “Briar, time to go.”<br/><br/><div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/SG9axYg.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/SG9axYg.jpg)</div>From behind the tree steps a woman in leather armor. It is customary for guards or bodyguards to wait in an adjoining room, so it is surprising to see her hiding in the ballroom. Cold eyes survey each of you, showing no reaction until they reach Mara and Erica. Something about them seems to put her on guard, and her stance subtly changes. The skilled fighters amongst you know that she is prepared to draw the sword at her side.<br/><br/>Each of you has the strangest feeling about this woman, Briar. You’re sure you have never met, yet you have the feeling that you know her, somehow. Unease grows inside you, the small hairs at the back of your neck standing on end.<br/><br/>Briar edges towards the doors, still on guard. She opens one, slips through and closes it, making nary a sound.<br/><br/>Luciana starts towards the doors, then abruptly turns on her heels. “This isn’t over. Not by far. If you think a gaggle of untalented hacks who can barely coordinate a matching outfit can replace me, you are in for a shock.” She casts a disdainful eye over Erica’s clothing. “Not to mention that this one teeters in heels. I rather thought she was three sheets to the wind.” She turns her scornful gaze to Alizeh. “And this one can’t even remember his lines. Is he senile already?” She looks towards Henry. “Rank amateurs all, of them. I’ll enjoy watching you grovel on all fours begging for me to return, Valena. I hope you enjoy the fruits of your ludicrous choices.”<br/><br/>Luciana opens the doors and slams them shut behind her, making such a crash that all eyes are drawn towards the gallery.