She will try

"I will see what I can do for your father, Lady Say. Whatever grunge this witch had against him, it must have already been paid in full" Liandra had her gratitude. Lady Say prepared a letter of introduction for her, the Lord merchant was based in his estates not far from the city.

It was a fabulous state, even the princess had to admit. It wasn't very wide, it was located on the side of a hill but with a superb view of the sea, the coast and the setting sun. By the amount of carriages coming and going, his parties were obviously very popular, but they were all unmarked vehicles with black curtains. Popular, but not widely accepted.

"Your mask is falling again, princess" Olivia told her in her sheepish tone. The borrowed philosopher mask was bulky and uncomfortable, Liandra would never pick such an ugly thing, but it was the only one Lady Say had that could cover her entire face. It showed a bearded old man, in her light dress it looked stupid.

Olivia, on the other hand, looked angelic. It was Lady Say´s idea, to shift attention from the princess, she applied some blush, light blue eyeshadow, a darker shade of red lipstick and a glittering dust, freckling her cheeks. Olivia was already dressed in a light, well behaved dress, and just by adding two small feathered wings to her back she became a celestial muse. She was very modest and became hopelessly embarrassed whenever she felt the princess showered her with unduly praise.

"It is really unfair, Olivia. You are like a seraphim, a divine inspiration... and I am an Old man in a dress." They both laughed, and were still in a good mood as their carriage went inside the festive states.

There were many people, but it wasn't a crowd. The musicians played a romantic tune that filled the dancing hall and echoed in the garden outside. Servants carried snack trays.

"Princess... you are touching my wings" Olivia complained, and indeed she had been. The pearl! The danger of wearing it in this place was "It was needed, princess. Lies and deceit are ripe here" The two walked around for some more, and then Liandra stopped to ask one of the servants

"Excuse me, we are looking for Lord Say, or one of his sons. Where are they?"

"Senior Say is upstairs, playing cards. Mr Adon Say is probably coming downstairs soon and Rafaellus Say is... probably under that table." And there was at least a leg showing, someone could as well be there.