Aegis stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of her dress for the fifth time.
The outfit was one of Lady Roseheart's gifts—deep emerald with silver embroidery along the sleeves. It hugged her curves without being scandalous, formal without looking like she was trying too hard.
"You look nervous," Lune said from her bed.
"I'm not nervous."
"Your hands are shaking."
Aegis looked down. Her fingers trembled as they smoothed the fabric.
"Okay. Maybe a little nervous."
"You'll be fine. You talked your way past a Shadow Sorceress, a ghost queen, and Headmistress Valdris. One noble matriarch shouldn't be a problem."
"One noble matriarch who could change my entire future."
"Then don't fuck it up."
Aegis shot her a look.
"Thanks for the pep talk."
"You're welcome."
Aegis grabbed her coin purse and headed for the door. She paused at the threshold.
"If I'm not back in two hours, assume I've been murdered and tell Talia I loved her."
"I will do no such thing."
"Lune—"
