"Oh," she says, losing interest. "That sounds like the kind of thing Nonagesimus would be into."

For Gideon's part, she prefers to grip hold of the workings of Fate and punch Destiny in the face – especially when it comes to endangering two stupid kids. Whatever the mysterious plans at hand, she's reasonably sure there's usually someone she can hit with a sword.

"The Fourth are fodder for the front lines. Everyone knows they tend to die young." Her expression grows fierce underneath her paint, and her hand clenches on the tabletop.

"But it shouldn't be now."