Talk to me, don't talk to me.

Larkin stared at Daniel and considered him. “Go,” he said, “I want to have breakfast in the gardens.”

He left in a hurry.

The servant girls trailed after Larkin as he left the room. He picked up more in the foyer and more yet outside in the hall. The men in black walked to the sides of Larkin, and behind. One man went to and fro in front of them, peering past the corners before Larkin turned them. The Shrike watched as if it all was very unnecessary, but he was the one who had ordered this.

Stelon’s room was not far. The front man went in first, a second holding the door open for Larkin. He strode in, glancing around once before his eyes fell on the girl. They swept across the dress’ neckline, and then found her clean face. He smiled, motioning for her to come near the door.

“Stelon,” he said, “you look lovely. That’s a beautiful dress; white suits you. Would you like to join me in the gardens, for breakfast?”