Xena's nerves were on edge as she approached Alpha Malik's chamber. The encounter with Jericho had stirred up memories she had desperately tried to forget. She had kept them hidden, even from her closest friend, Jeanne. The most painful reminder was that her body still recognized Jericho's scent, a fact that fueled her hatred for him.
Taking a deep breath, Xena steeled herself before entering the king's chamber. Alpha Malik was preparing to leave, his attire indicating he was headed out for the evening.
"Good day, my lord," Xena greeted, bowing deeply.
"Evening, Xena," the king replied curtly, barely sparing her a glance.
"My king, are you going out?" Xena inquired.
"No, I'm preparing for tonight's banquet," Malik explained, "but I want to inspect some goods my brother acquired from a
