294 Walking a Tightrope

~ SASHA ~

"I will not submit my people," Vayl added more softly, "But I will share a meal with you. You will not take power here, but we can live in peace."

One of the three females behind her huffed in obvious disapproval, but Sasha and Vayl both ignored her.

Sasha blew out the breath she'd been holding, glad she wasn't going to be expected to fight this woman. Because she would lose, she knew. And in that case, she'd also lose all hope at gaining their respect.

"Thank you," Sasha said quickly. "I'm grateful. I don't expect you to… to shift the hierarchy for me. You have to sustain what you have here. I don't know how long you'll have to remain here after I leave. I just want to understand. To gain your insight if you have any."