"You presume much, Volan, to dare to speak to me that way. Don't imagine that the hospitality I offer your two compatriots necessarily extends to you, an entity in a box.""If your 'hospitality' to Teague and Raina to date is any indication, I hardly think I'll languish over its loss," Rand muttered dryly. "But all that aside, you haven't much time left, Bahir, and no time whatsoever for those around you to mince words.""No, I suppose I don't." The Tuaret leader leaned back against his pillows and shot the carrying pack a considering look. "I don't recall, though, asking for your advice.""No, I don't suppose you did," the Volan admitted. "I've found with those of your species, however, that you rarely know when you need the input. And my heart—figuratively at least—went out to your mate. You totally discount her, you know?"Bahir's anger stirred anew. "Najirah isn't a topic of discussion.""Why? Because you feel guilty over how you treat her?""She is my wife. I treat her with the utmost respect!""I think she'd prefer a bit more passion than respect.
