Suddenly, the warmth inside me went ashy cold. “Simon, did you bring that with you?” I asked huskily. “No.” His brow furrowed. “They gave it to me. Is something wrong?” I shook my head. I could not explain now, not when my thoughts were groping about in the dark. What had Helena said to me, at our last meeting? I hope that you will not blame me for pressing my advantage. There was only one explanation: the gown she had given me to wear had originated here, in this place. But what could it mean? I was going to the ceremony in a dress that had been made here, by someone in this community. And
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