Before it stood two Africans with gleaming scimitars.
White to the lips, Hellayne closed the door and faced Theodora.
"Lady Theodora—why are these there?"
Theodora's smouldering gaze met the fire in the other woman's eyes.
"Those who come to the bowers of Theodora, remain," she said slowly.
"Am I to understand that you will detain me by force within these walls of infamy?"
"Your language is a trifle harsh, fairest Lady Hellayne," Theodora replied mockingly. "Your over-wrought nerves must bear the burden of the blame. Yet, whatever it may please you to call the place where Theodora dwells, always remember, I am Theodora. You have heard of me before."
"Yes—I have heard of you before!"
The calm and cutting contempt which lingered in these words stung Theodora like a whip-lash.
"You know then, Lady Hellayne, it is your will against mine! We have met before!"