The Lady of the Swamp clapped her hands and an assistant capybara folk appeared as if he had been waiting behind the wall.
With a cheerful bow, he led Alaric, Walter, Lilina, Kobto, and Kobluk away for tea in a side room that smelled of warm herbs and wet reeds.
Joji did not get that mercy.
The Lady looped her arm through his again and guided him to a table that looked too rich for a swamp, lacquered wood, cushioned seats, plates set with sweets that shone with sugar glaze.
Steam rose from a teapot shaped like a lotus bud. Joji sat. He did not relax.
People like her did not open doors for charity. They wanted something.
If you were lucky, it was simple. If you were unlucky, it was all you have.
Joji waited. He watched her hands as she poured tea. Her fingers were steady. Her eyes were not.
"I want to get out of the curse," she said at last. "I know you are at a level where you can give pleasure to any woman. Am I right?"
