"It is no bother," Ari responded smoothly. Explaining the complex root of her respect for Vivi was certainly not in the cards tonight; much better to go along, since she was not that vested in the outcome. "Of course, I cannot deny my disappointment that she claimed Guy first," she winked, "but I'm certain I will live." She laughed. "She has me well-schooled, you see; I showed her disrespect exactly once, and I'm not keen on an encore performance." She raised her glass and toasted Vivi, adding, "May I be as formidable as you, someday; no one ever simply goes along with what I say."
She noted that Aspel did not eat, but chose not to comment; surely sharing a room with her was not that terrible, even if Aspel was inclined to brood today.