Social gathering earns Maria a look of mixed surprise and amusement, moreso because of the wryness and that she called it a 'social gathering.'

"The ball," Leliana amends, and though she isn't smiling yet, the brief reprieve of amusement is a welcome one. "It would also, conceivably, be a fine opportunity for you to relax and take an evening from your duties."

But they both know that's a lie, because there is never a moment of rest in the Game, and that is exactly what this ball will be. Relaxing is a luxury.

"The work would have to be subtle," she adds, rather dryly. "You may be required to dance."