That evening, the servants snuck me down to the gates. I could hear the sounds of the ball echoing from elsewhere within the castle: a small orchestra, the chatter of those nobles first to arrive. Periodically the hubbub was interrupted by Simon's loud voice announcing the arrival of another important person.

I met Brienne in one of the many rooms adjacent to the gate.

(Wow,) she signed, (you are... you look lovely, Eve.)

(I feel sick,) I signed back.

She laughed. ...