<div style="text-align: justify;">Mary watched Lorna closely after she told her new mistress who her parents were. Mary knew that people spoke about her family, and not always in flattering terms. She didn't mind, though. She had been taught well at home. And one thing she had learned pretty soon was that rumors mattered little when you managed to get on the good side of the right people. That was, naturally, the reason why Mary had been sent to court. Getting the favors of the King or Queen was the top aim, but if she could get the favor of any other peer of an equal or better rank than that of her parents, she would take the chance. <br/><br/>When Lorna said she had heard of her parents, the young woman nodded. She would make no comment on them before learning of Lorna's thoughts about them and their conduct. From what Mary could gather from Lorna's previous conduct, she might not have any qualms against people who tried to advance their position. Her current position, though, might mean that she had changed her mind and ways. Perhaps. That was still to be seen.<br/><br/>"I hope I shall prosper. It is a little difficult to be apart from my family", Mary stated, looking out the window for a moment. "But you are right, His Majesty keeps excellent company, and I am sure I shall learn much here". Mary's intelligent gaze kept on Lorna's expression for a moment. There seemed to be some resentment there, which was only to be expected. She wondered about whether or not there was a real feeling involved there, but preferred to file this question in her mind and come to her own conclusions about it in the future.<br/><br/>Smiling brightly when Lorna commented on the New Year, the woman nodded. "Indeed. I am very much looking forward to the celebrations, and even more since my family will be present. It will be a joyful occasion, I believe", she completed. After these words, she stood by Lorna, waiting for her to say anything else, and keeping silent until then.</div>