Startled into wakefulness, Tallow sat up quickly, rubbing her eyes and trying to shake the pall of sleep away. ‘Scusi?’ For just a moment, her escapade last night came back. Her hands fell away and she became very hot. She glanced at Hafeza, who was busy pouring scents into her washing water. Had she told? Did Giaconda know? There was nothing in Giaconda’s manner to suggest anger, only repressed excitement. Tallow turned towards her cautiously. ‘We have a huge day planned for you, Tarlo! Come on, get out of bed. It’s not like you to be so slovenly.’ She turned to Hafeza, who was sorting through some dresses in a chest near the screen. ‘No, not that one, it’s too bright. The dark one with the silver lace on the sleeves. That will do nicely. Brush down my black cape. Tarlo can wear that as well. It’s cold outside.’ Tallow looked from Hafeza to Giaconda, trying to clear her head. Outside? Giaconda was already fully dressed in an elaborate gown of deep purple and grey with hints of blue cut into the sleeves.
