Celes turned her face from the pillow to look up at Eva.  How was she so ready and alert?  Celes felt like she was put through a wringer with the last few days of travel, briefings, and Eva's "special" lessons.  Of course, she knew they were more catching up on old times, and such a relationship could only be a playful perversion of the proper hierarchy.<br/><br/>"Mmmmrrrr... bath..."  Once she was soaking in the hot water, the room steamy, she was able to float back to alertness.  After camping in the field for months, a real bed sucked her in far too deeply.  She sipped her juice as she considered her options.  There were several appealing choices, politically, financially, and martially.  "I ate worse on the field; thank you.  You set up the estate, I should probably introduce myself in court, try to meet some of the Houses.  While quickly establishing myself with Houses Raes or Saari could provide security, it seems best to insinuate myself with House Wynt while I'm still relatively unknown, and learn what I can about the political climate."  She activated her ring, and started wiping off whatever tiny hairs might be trying to grow on her legs and body.  "I suppose I'll have to dress the part as well.  Could you pick out a gown for me, Eva?  I think I'm going to court."<br/><br/><hr/><br/><div class="floatright">(http://www.strangestory.net/images/2012/01/Corset-Wedding-Dresses.jpg)</div>Assuming she would have to hire a carriage until she could procure her own, Celes gazed out the windows as she rode to the palace.  She had visited Londinium before, but it always amazed her how many people could gather in one place, besides fielding armies.  It made for a dirty, crowded city, but seeing the markets and streets, also full of life and activity.  Arriving at the palace, she would accept the footman's help stepping out in a white corseted gown, retailored from her sister's old wardrobe.  Her sword didn't quite fit, unfortunately, but she did secure a dagger with her garter.  Not having any steel was what made her feel truly naked.