“Well maybe it’s about time you stepped into the limelight,” Magda smiled, resting her hand on top of Rosamere’s. “I’d be more than happy to help. While I’m no scholar like you, I’m certainly no stranger to courtier games. And besides…” Magda looked into Rosamere’s eyes, imparting whatever meaning she could, “I am forever in your debt. And I do not intend to take that for granted.”

“Well, that doesn’t change the way I feel…” Magda smiled. Slowly but without hesitation, she placed a soft kiss on Rosamere’s lips. She pulled away, and without comment, squeezed Rosamere’s hand and stood. “As I said,” Magda continued as if nothing out of the ordinary had just happened, “I am at your disposal, should you ever require a guiding hand.” She started to exit Rosamere’s room, looking back once with a mischievous flame burning in her eyes.

“I’m glad you’re well, dear one,” the term would harken back to the moonlight passion they’d shared after the masquerade. Magda would hear any parting words before turning and leaving Rosamere’s room - shutting the door behind her.