“Do you remember, Alexandreina?” asked the lady. “I had our sweet, talented little Cosmina,” (at which one of the male attendants – a demure little brunette thing – blushed deeply) “paint this as a token of your first year with us. Weren’t you pretty? And so accomplished, my dear. You came here as a warrior, skilled only in violence. We taught you a new life, and better skills to dedicate yourself to. Why, this very dress I am wearing was made by you… my very own royal seamstress. And were you not well beloved? Did not your sisters give you many sweet pleasures? More pleasures than you would ever have dared to experience, had you remained among mortals, with their foolish, timid prejudices.