It's a Trick

Away from the Blue Guard, who refused to mingle among the unwashed masses, a brown cloaked woman bumped into someone seemingly by accident. "Oh, excuse me," she said shyly.

The gentleman bobbed his head politely, "No need to apologize, I.." the man's face changed to astonishment as the woman's hood fell from her head, revealing her dark hair. The man fell to his knees. "Your Majesty!" he exclaimed with appropriate awe.

The woman shushed him, "Rise please. No one can know that I am here." But those around him took notice.

"That's the Empress!" A man in a black cloak whispered loudly.

Another cloaked gentleman nearby also began to spread rumors of the Empress's presence. Before long, the entire courtyard was abuzz. Anna, who was posing as the Empress, was impressed by Gandr's performance. They had not even really needed the men to start the people talking, but Zan and Ezer were currently doing an excellent job fanning the flame.

"The Empress is so ki