Jin relaxed considerably as Lore adjusted her hairstyle. Her sister’s touch was very warm and soothing. It was so much nicer than when her ladies in waiting did it. They always made the bun too tight. “Much better, Lore. Thank you.” She smiled widely and took a delicate sip of the wine. It was delicious, and quite powerful, and had a different scent entirely than what they usually had with dinner. Sulhana was always good at choosing that kind of thing.

“A drinking contest, hm? I suppose I will join. Consider this my entry.” While she had grown used to the nonalcoholic cider in the silver cups, today was apparently the day she became an adult. She took another careful sip of the wine and watched as Vyarin sputtered over his. What was that about? Was he going to be alright? Lore was already on it, so she turned her attention to Hana as she approached. 

“I wouldn’t have run away. Not from this. I’m supposed to be the bravest of all of us, aren’t I? So here I am.” She chuckled as she was engulfed in a hug. There had always been a bit of the dramatic in Hana, spymaster or not. She had always been the one to make up stories as children. Her speaking of governesses and new-dress days with four less than earnest young ladies brought a sparkle to her eyes and a grin to her face. It had been simpler, yes. Much simpler.

Jin actually lost composure and blushed when Sulhana mentioned the armor she had received. But she was surprised at her elder sister’s advice. “You think I should have? Perhaps. Then the men would know what they’re really working with, instead of… this.” Sometimes the fancy gowns felt like lying. 

She approached Prince Gil, swept a curtsy and smiled. Before they could really get to talk, however, Hana announced that dinner was on the table. Despite her earlier nerves, the head-clearing workout from earlier had made her rather hungry now. It would be good to sit and eat.