Corinne unpacked the clothes she’d brought—far too many for a mere three days, but this lifestyle was having an affect on her. Who knew what her wardrobe would look like if she came to Terris permanently.

Soon-mi’s offer was never far from Corinne’s thoughts. A life she never could have imagined a year ago, and here it was, laid out before her, if only she had the strength to reach out and take it.

Buried under her clothes, Corinne pulled out the nima-shield she’d crafted back on Pax. The notes and the rest of the evidence were in Yeijiro’s custody—he’d wanted to be able to study them more—but she’d brought the shield to show Lady Snow. She thought Snow would appreciate the craft that went into it. She’d certainly been admiring enough through the mirror.

The gold bracelet at Corinne’s wrist buzzed. Corinne had inserted a tiny communication chip behind the decorative spiral at its center, so she and Yeijiro could stay in touch. She woke it with a brush of her mind, and asked, “Are you settled in?”

“I am,” he answered. “Although this is really unnecessary.”

“I’m not having this argument again.” Corinne had found a resort not far from here, and had gotten Yeijiro a lovely—and expensive—suite to stay in. “I dragged you out here. I’m going to make sure you’re comfortable. Besides, I want you close if the chance comes for you to sneak in to meet with Lady Snow.”

“When do you think you’ll be able to talk to her?”

The party officially started at midnight. Things would be happening. Snow wouldn’t want to talk then. But maybe, “Tomorrow morning, I hope. I should be able to at least whisper in her ear tonight and set up when we can be alone together.”

That was the moment she noticed the note that had been slid under her door.

“Hold on a minute,” she said, unfolding it to read.

Corinne recognized Snow’s handwriting immediately. Shall we start the games early? There’s a secluded pool in the southwest corner of the estate, surrounded by trees, entirely private. Go there. Wait for me. Be patient.

“Yeah, I don’t think we’ll have a chance to talk about the demon stuff until tomorrow. Yeijiro, I’m sorry, I need to go.”

“I’ll be up working, if you need me.”

Corinne couldn’t imagine she’d have any time to talk to him any more tonight, but she did want to say, “Thanks. I’m glad you’re with me on this.”

“Me too. Now go enjoy your party.”