Lunise did not quite relax when they finally had a space to themselves. She stood with one arm behind her back, looking at the walls. "Marod is skilled at 'seeming' whatever is most beneficial at a given time. I expect no less of him, and you should expect even less of his commitment at this stage."

Despite the serious tone, Lunise pulled loose the bow keeping her dress strung up at her back and tugged to carefully get herself free of the garment.

"Do not think tomorrow's meeting will be any easier, Meesei," Lunise continued with a glance over her shoulder. "Nevertheless, how do you intend to convince Marod and the Empire?"