Della became aware of her hands, which she'd lifted off her knees while speaking. Beyond them sat the man responsible for her standing in the Guild, with a captain of Sarthal's dragonkin guard beside him.
She'd just told both of them to look at themselves.
Brena slowly withdrew her hand from Della's sleeve. Tavi stared at the desk, unwilling to meet either official's eyes.
Della lowered her hands to her lap. Then, the three adventurers whispered in perfect, sheepish sync:
"...With all due respect, sir, madam."
*Clap!*
Veshara clapped her hands together, making all three women jump.
*Clap!* *Clap!* *Clap!*
"Well! I've been thoroughly scolded."
Della opened her mouth, but the captain continued before she could make another apology.
"Rightfully, too. I already apologized to Black for my uh... lackluster introduction, and I intend to do so again when the opportunity presents itself. I made quite a mess of things."
