She starts walking, slowly, obliquely. “I never thought a man like you would let himself become a tyrant’s most faithful lapdog. What are you doing here, Jasiri? Why are you fighting the emperor’s battles and wearing his insignia on your chest?” The tingle of shame caresses Kamali’s skin. “I serve the emperor because he’s the best way to restore peace and order to the Yontai. I cannot allow my preferences to cloud my judgment.”
