about learning the lineages, even those of distant nations. Politics brings all corners of Toril to Waterdeep, one way or another."

and quite recently fashionable, though not this season. The jacket was once well-made, the trousers once tailored to another - and the curtsy seems so instinctive, Entarra wonders if she's ever worn them before.

"You may be surprised, though. You know how strict some families can be

"Oh, goodness, no, it'll rain within the hour. I'd have traveled by carriage. I can respect a mind trained to the moment at hand, and what lies ahead." She set an even, unhurried pace that allowed Bella to catch up quickly.

Her glance flits to the newcomer's shoes: ill-fitting,

gesturing for the other young woman to follow her.

"And from what court do you hail, Bella?" She certainly made it sound as if she had more than passing familiarity. With the state of her, many would write her off as a liar, or worse, a mind full of delusions.

But she's seen something deeper.

"Hmm." She seems to consider this, but the appraising eye she cast over Bella passed quickly.

"...No, not unless you should find reason to meet me at Court. 'Lady' is for formalities or those in our employ, and the situation calls for neither.

You may call me Entarra," she concludes,

OUT.

"I am indeed, and heir to its legacy - young though it may be. I am Entarra Thunderstaff.

And who might you be, my friend?"

"First and foremost, my dear: never disparage yourself, not before judgmental eyes and not before a mirror. You'll give the vultures too prime an opening, or worse, wonder whether they deserve one."

She offered an arm to her new acquaintance, poised and precise.