It's when she gets to Chorus that her resume makes a real impression. The impassive expression gives way to a light of curiosity, and he looks her over again with renewed perspective. She's upright, forthcoming. A woman of honor, it seems.

"You clearly have a soldier's discipline." This is a glowing compliment, coming from Piotr. "And you've experience in guerrilla warfare. Not a claim that many of you outsiders can make."

His hand hovers over a broadsword laying bare on the table. Not breaking eye contact, he picks it up with one-handed ease, like it may as well be attached to his arm.

"But how are you with a blade?"