Mrs Vale's gaze settled on Elara calmly, it was neither warm nor distant. "Elara Veyne," she said gently. "I've heard quite a bit about you."
Elara inclined her head slightly, her smile polite and restrained. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs Vale. Thank you for the invitation."
Mrs Vale studied her for another brief second, then nodded as if confirming something only she could see. Her eyes shifted to Ziva. "And you must be Ziva, her assistant."
Ziva stood up at once and gave an exaggerated, dramatic bow. One hand pressed to her chest. "In the flesh," she said solemnly.
Relanie coughed, trying not to laugh.
Mrs Vale's lips curved faintly. "I've heard you're… lively."
"I prefer 'memorable,'" Ziva replied, with an exaggerated expression.
Relanie turned to Elara, her eyes bright. "Your dress suits you very well," she said warmly. "It looks like it was made just for you."
