And what did that mean? Had Lady Grie changed her mind? Did she not want Barl Lindin’s exclusive services any more?

If that’s so, then Arndel will surely dismiss me. The blow to his pride won’t permit anything less.

And if she was dismissed…

No reputable artisanry took on a mage without first checking that mage’s standing with the Guild. Her standing was precarious now, thanks to the College proctor and interfering Lord Hahren. More than likely she’d be disparaged. Recommended against.

If my life falls to pieces, and takes Remmie down with it, I doubt he’ll forgive me. Not this time.

“Mage Lindin—” Lady Grie leaned forward as far as her belly would allow. “You’ve gone quite pale. Are you unwell?”

Upset, she answered without thinking. “No, I’m angry. The Guild had no right to talk of me. What business is it of theirs if I choose to further my studies?”

“I think you’ll find it’s where you want to further them that’s caused the consternation.”

And now Lady Grie sounded exactly like Remmie. “Why? Because it’s the College and my family is unranked?” She folded her arms tight across her aching stomach. “I tell you I am sick to death of this nonsense. By what right do ranked mages trample my dreams? I am no criminal, I do not seek to use magic in any unlawful way. All I want is a chance to test the length and breadth and depth of my talent in the best school Dorana has to offer. There is no good reason for that chance to be denied me. My rejection by the College is nothing but a conspiracy of pettiness.”

“Well, well, well.” Lady Grie laughed. “You’re quite the firebrand, aren’t you?”

Silenced, Barl let her arms fall by her sides. Oh, my wretched temper. “I’m sorry, Lady Grie. I forgot myself. It won’t happen again.”

“That would be for the best,” said Lady Grie, eyebrows raised again. “Now show me my new clock. I’ve told my mother I have a wonderful surprise for her. I’m keen to know you’ve not made a liar of me.”

So her foolishness was to be swept under the fine cream carpet, was it? Soundlessly sighing, Barl relaxed her tight fingers.

I’ll not complain. I’ll even wield the broom myself if it keeps me safe in the artisanry.

“Of course, my lady.”

She removed the warded cloth from the clock, hefted her heavy crystal creation from the sideboard to the small round table Lady Grie indicated, then stood back.

Like it. Please like it. You have to like it. It’s beautiful.

“Hmmm,” said Lady Grie, roaming her sharp gaze over each twist and curve of the clock’s crystal housing. “Let me hear it.”