<em>~ Mila, with Nicci and Angus in the Great Hall ~</em><br/><br/>Mila was immediately taken by Nicci's friendliness.  The other woman's openness, rather than making her feel awkward, soothed her anxiety.  She wondered if she'd ever get to the point where she would be able to kiss a complete stranger, and thought she might like to be more like that, more<em>free</em>.  "Your dress is gorgeous," she said, her voice sweet and lilting.<br/><br/>She took the glass of champagne from Angus, holding it up for the toast.  "New beginnings," she repeated with a small smile on her face as she looked at the stunning woman before her, "And beautiful women."  She took a sip, her smile broadening and her eyes glittering with excitement over what was to come.