"What a good idea," Loki muses, flipping his glower into a smile as easily as anything. He regards Bene with a tepid sort of look and sips from his drink.

"Why it would be unfortunate if Lady de la Fontaine were unprepared for the Fatherland, wouldn't it? And you are very clever at navigating the upper echelons."

He drums his fingers against the back of the chaise.

"Speaking of which, will your lovely mother be in attendance? I do know how she takes an interest in you."