The Nilfgaardian Black Ones stepped aside, lifting their halberds as they did. Triss gave them a curt nod, and they responded with steely gazes. So much for being cordial. She tucked a strand of scarlet hair behind her ear, shivering slightly as they shut the palace doors behind her and blocked out the cold. Lit candelabrum flanked the extravagant hallway, high curved walls held up by cut marble pillars. Black Ones stood all around, and Triss had a moment of worry seeing so many of them.
“Miss Merigold, hello!” Someone called. She looked over to see a butler scurrying over her, a wide dumb smile on his face. He wore the standard court tunic, with its puffy sleeves and frayed collar. The butler had an unfortunate bald spot and thin red hair that looked a lot like hers. He reeked of perfumes. “We are *so* pleased to have you here!”
“Yes, well, when the Empress of Nilfgaard sends you a personal letter, you don’t really refuse do you?” Triss responded curtly. The butler’s smile flickered, nervousness creeping on his face.