Ead went to the queen and moved her hair aside to reach her nape, where her carcanet was clasped. “Ead,” Sabran said. “Did you enjoy the ceremony?” “Yes, Your Majesty. You looked magnificent.” “Do I not still?” She asked it lightly, but Ead heard the trace of doubt in her voice. “You are always beautiful, madam.” Ead worked the hook free and slipped the jewels from about her throat. “But in my eyes . . . never more so than you are now.”