The letter arrived with breakfast.
Aegis cracked the seal, House Valemont's crest, and scanned the contents.
Lady Starcaller,
You are cordially invited to a formal dinner at Valemont Manor this evening. A gathering of rising houses to discuss matters of mutual interest.
Formal attire required.
Duchess Valemont
[Ooh. Networking with the political intrigue professor herself.]
"Another event?" Evelyn appeared at her elbow, already reading over her shoulder. The woman had no concept of personal space when it came to correspondence. Though, given that Aegis was going to tell her all about this sort of thing anyway, she didn't mind.
"Duchess Valemont's hosting. Rising houses."
"Which means she's scouting talent."
"Or consolidating influence before the Stone betrothal shakes everything up."
"Both, probably."
"Both, definitely." Aegis set the letter down. "I should be there."
"I'll have the staff prepare your formal wear." Evelyn paused. "The blue dress or the black?"
