Gwen stood frozen where she was. She had served Aurelia long enough to know every article of clothing her mistress owned, yet she had never imagined that one day she would be forced to present one of them before the King of Valkoron himself, her brother-in-law, her sister-in-law and her very own brother.
The very thought mortified her.
Vera noticed her hesitation almost immediately.The witch's expression softened ever so slightly.
"You needn't look so embarrassed," she said, her voice calm enough to soothe some of the girl's anxiety.
"Magic is an indifferent thing. It has no understanding of modesty or shame. It recognizes only truth... and essence. If what you carry bears enough of your lady's presence, then it is exactly what we require."
Gwen lowered her eyes. "I understand, my lady."
