Part 76: Week 17 Part 2

No, I don't want the Duke of Sedna to think badly of me. I will skip the dancing.

Very well.

Between the dances, there is time for the guests to mingle, chat, and sample tiny bites of exquisite food.



During a lull in the music, Banion, the duke of Maree, taps an elegant fingernail against a wineglass, letting the clear note ring out through the room.

If I might have your attention? I believe we should offer our compliments to our lovely hostess. Her words of wisdom guide us through our difficulties.

Everyone applauds politely. As the gala continues, you take the opportunity to observe nobles that you rarely see. There's Gwenelle, for instance - the Young Lady of Sudbury, only months older than you and due to finally inherit control of her duchy soon. Or Adele, the youngest daughter of the Duchess of Lillah and a fierce sportswoman. She was a few years ahead of you at school and the absolute terror of the ballfields. No Briony - she had said her parents were leaving her stuck at school this season. Her parents are here, dancing together - the Duke-Consort clutching his Duchess possessively tight. Strange that there's no sign of your cousins, though. Shouldn't they be here? Your aunt and uncle are here, of course. It would be scandalous if they hadn't come, Merva being so close by.



There's something itching at your senses, something familiar. Then it hits you. Aunt Lucille is a Lumen!





Don't vote for classes.