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My pulse surges inthe steps The air seeht flickers I have to pause to catchof the second story An open door looks onto a cha out two night-robes I flinch away frohts of stairs

On the top floor soldiers wearing the Garon badge guard the open door They wave me to a halt and I am oddly thankful they are so cautious offurniture boxed up," ray-streaked hair and fleshy back I recognize as belonging to Steward Haredas "I am sure Lady Menoë has a warehouse in Garon Palace for all the finery"

He glances up, alert to the ht, the tray inbut look

Then his nostrils flare as he takes in a sharp breath His lips silently fornized me even in my mask

"General, is all well?" Haredas asks "You look as if you have seen a rat"

The steward notices er, for unlike eneral drinks his tea before he goes to his bed, not now Be away! Must I speak to your supervisor and have you whipped?"

"No, Haredas, I asked for tea to settle my stomach" Father wears a mask too: a mask of indifference But he clenches his left hand "I will take a few uests and my wife"

Does his tone bite on the words ry that his unwanted daughter has shown up where her presence can harrunt "This irls hired in for the feast Lady Meno&eu her servants"

"Go see that the wagons are being loaded properly," says Father

I step aside to let Haredas leave He does not givethe tea," says Father in his command voice As I step into the room, he adds to the soldiers, "Close the doors I need a few hts before the evening’s ordeal"

The guards tap hands to chests "Yes, General"