Miri's fingers tapped on the table, one after the other in sequence, rising then falling. The chatter of her citizens surrounded her. Briskly, she halted her tattoo in order to push dark brown hair out of her eyes. Her meal, a cold pumpkin soup topped with a toast of …

The evening's entertainment ended. People left the hall, for the game rooms and libraries to continue their nights in more intimate environments. Before Miri could stand, she was accosted by her keyholders. “I believe we've had some success attracting new recruits to our demesne. With the university graduation …

Miri's stomach churned. Which, she chided herself, was ridiculous. She was going to meet the musicians and offer them a boon as Lady of her demesne. She had done the same hundreds times before. This was no different. Lila spoke to her, about the annual welcome festival, she thought …