"Huh? I was plannin' to, yeah," Liya said, somewhat puzzled. "Why?"

"I...I was just wondering! Um...don't forget!"

"I'll be there!"

"Good! I will see you then!!"

Liya, non-plussed, waved a cheerful goodbye. She waited until she was out of sight, further down the corridor, before pumping her fists ecstatically and hissing "Yessss!"

< Did you get any sleep at all, Highness? >

The Cynn was doing up the collar of his crisp white shirt, peering into a mirror at himself with heavy-lidded eyes. < A bit, > he said.

Helly stared disapprovingly at the back of his head. Ne didn't say anything, but as if ne had, the Cynn stifled a yawn and said, < It's fine. I'll nap after the hearing. >

Helly didn't argue. The Cynn rifled through his bag, then, checking the contents. < Let's see, I've got my speeches, my clothes, Hawk's paperwork...and you'll bring Sraddi to the Hub, along with the rest of my equipment...and Liliya. You'll break the news gently to her, yes? > he added.

< Yes, of course, > Helly said quickly. < But, about that...your grandmother Fiaqra is here. The front guard let me know. I think she may have seen the posters that the du Cuppra put up about the hearing. >

The Cynn very visibly flinched at this. < Oh, rot, > he muttered.