The room stared back at her in silence as Talon swept into view, swishing between the women and men in their paint and butterfly colours. This evening he wore acid-green. “Ah, Storm, you are come at last. Betaan has such tardy habits!” He cast an affectionate look at his daughter before turning to Storm and bowing with a well-judged mixture of formality and familiarity. “Let me make introductions. The Pact is dying to meet you!”

Talon paraded her around the room. Face after painted face swam into view; words of greeting were murmured, bows exchanged. Storm saw Waffa of the tally sheets rear up and disappear, before a pair of eyes the colour of burnt apricots caught her gaze. Almond, the young trader who had greeted her at the docks, swept forward and bent in a graceful bow.

“Ah, good,” said Talon. “Just the person to partner Storm in the dancing. You youngsters go and work up an appetite for the feast I have planned!”

Storm wiped what she knew must be a look of horror from her face. “B-but I am sure I do not know how to dance in your fashion and…” The idea of dancing with Almond, who stood looking at her with barely disguised amusement on his too-perfect face, made her want to sink into the yellow floor.

“Nonsense, Father!” Betaan stepped between them. “Our guest is far too young to dance with an old man like Almond.”

Storm felt her eyes open wide at the insult, but an expression of amused tolerance crossed the young trader’s face.

“I shall partner Storm this evening.” Betaan gave her father an admonishing glance. To Storm she said, “Come and meet my friends.”

“Thank you!” Storm gasped as Betaan led her through the crowd. It parted before them as Talon’s daughter called out greetings, gathering a group of other girls. Face after painted face turned to study her, and Storm’s mouth went dry. What had she to do with these perfect, delicate-looking creatures?

“Gather round and rescue Storm!” Betaan sang out. “She’s my new best friend!”

“Lucky Storm,” said a tall young woman in a grave voice. Beneath the painted mask, Storm saw a clever and possibly kind face. “I am Mer,” said the girl. “I used to be Beta’s best friend, but she changes us round weekly.” The group giggled. “Welcome!” said Mer.