The chamber was quiet except for the steady, rhythmic whisper of the brush moving through Aurelia's hair. Gwen stood behind her lady, her hand firm but gentle, each stroke deliberate as if she could untangle the thoughts knotted in Aurelia's mind along with her hair. The pale evening light slanted through the tall windows, falling in soft gold across the floor.
"You've been frowning for half an hour," Gwen said, breaking the silence.
Aurelia's eyes lifted to the mirror, but she didn't look at her reflection — only past it. "Have I?"
"Yes you have that look," Gwen replied, tilting her head as she studied her lady's face. The one you get when you're already somewhere else in your head. It's that faraway stare. I've seen it before .... usually before something unpleasant."
Aurelia gave a faint smile, though it barely curved her lips. "Tomorrow I leave for Caelmont. What else would occupy my mind?"
