Silence rippled through the crowd.
Talia stared at Aegis's outstretched hand like it might explode. But, Aegis kept firm, confident in her own actions.
"You're joking."
"Do I look like I'm joking?"
"You must have lost your mind, then." Talia's voice dripped venom. "Why would I, heir to House Stone, dance with a nobody commoner like yourself?"
[Right. Why would you? There's no real reason... Aside from...]
"Because you want to." Aegis kept her hand extended, smile never wavering. "I can see it in your eyes."
"The only thing in my eyes is contempt. Though it seems the person on the receiving end of that contempt is not aware of it."
"Mm, sure. That's definitely what that is."
A noble girl beside Talia gasped.
"Your Highness, you don't have to acknowledge this... person."
"I'm aware." Talia's jaw tightened. "Run along, Starcaller. Before I have you removed."
