The nervousness nearly made Luna mess up the following day in the protocol competitions.
It was the same exam theme as always, only this time the tests were slightly different and performance was compared with everyone else's. Demonstrating appropriate knowledge of noble etiquette, correct handling of formal conversations, navigation of complex social situations as always.
Luna normally dominated these things with her intense preparation. Had been trained from the cradle for exactly this kind of thing.
Born into a great house. Raised by tutors who accepted nothing less than perfection. Drilled in every nuance of noble behavior until it became as automatic as breathing.
But her mind kept returning to the announcement board. To that name beside hers.
Ren Patinder - Luna Starweaver
The letters haunted her. Followed her into sleep and ambushed her during waking hours. Made concentration feel like wading through mud when it should have been effortless…
