Lady Chartworth had been in the employ of Queen Pirouette for several years. Under the guise of lady in waiting to Queen Pirouette’s younger sister, the Duchess of Ennuyeuse, Lady C worked tirelessly as a spy both at Court and at Courts abroad. Today she was receiving instructions directly from the Queen herself.

“As you know, tonight my husband is hosting a ball for the wounded noncommissioned officers in a few days,” said Queen Pirouette to Lady Chartworth.

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Gazing demurely at the floor, Lady C murmured, “I hope this isn’t another honey pot.”

“Nothing so vulgar, my dear,” Queen Pirouette waved her fan in the air as if she were swatting a fly. “No, all I require you to do is to make a connection with your handler in the Imperial Court.”

“My goodness! Right there in full sight of everybody! That’s playing it fast and loose.”