Director Chen’s perfectly plucked brows furrowed. “Surely you realize that the papers and radio hosts are taking a passionate interest in your engagement to Lord Iannis. And regretfully, not all outlets are portraying it in a positive manner. It is essential that the Chief Mage’s reputation should not take any damage from this unconventional relationship. As his fiancée, you can no longer stay out of the public eye. If you do not present yourself to the public in a sympathetic manner, the media will gleefully take advantage of your silence.”

“So what do you want me to do?” I asked, trying not to sound irritated. After all, Director Chen had a point, even if I didn’t like what she was saying. Papers all over the Federation had already printed articles speculating about my relationship with Iannis, and that was before our engagement.

“I’ve had my secretary set up some appointments for you. You will be meeting with important mage families and media representatives to answer questions and discuss your future role as the wife of Canalo’s Chief Mage.” Director Chen smiled again. “In fact, the first interview is already set for tomorrow.”

“Oh.” Relief swept through me. “I’m sorry to say I won’t be able to make any of those appointments. I’m leaving for Dara tomorrow, with the Chief Mage.”

“I’m well aware,” Director Chen said, unruffled by my announcement. “Tomorrow’s interview will take place in the morning, at nine o’clock. I believe your flight is not scheduled to leave until just before lunch, correct?”

“Correct,” I said through gritted teeth. Dammit, but I wasn’t ready for this! It was one thing to interview suspects, another thing to be interviewed myself. And I’d never been groomed for the kind of political schmoozing that Chen clearly had in mind.

“Excellent,” Chen said briskly. “Your other appointments will be rescheduled if you cannot return on time. I will assign you a social secretary to help you keep up with your engagements.”

“Whoa, whoa, hang on.” I held up a hand, getting a little overwhelmed now. “I’m not sure I should be doing this so soon. I want to talk to Lord Iannis about this first. Does he know you’ve set this up?”

“I haven’t had a chance to tell him about it yet, but I will, and I’m sure he would approve. With all this adverse gossip about the two of you spreading, Lord Iannis would be the first to demand that something needs to be done.”

“I dunno,” I said dubiously, not sure if I should trust Chen. I wasn’t completely certain she had my best interests at heart. “I think I’d rather pick out my own social secretary, thanks. And I’d rather do the interviews when I’m more prepared for them.”