Even before she had spoken to Vax about Stephanie, Lillith had noted the awkwardness of her arrival. She had sympathy, very much of it, for the poor thing and intended to show her kindness. In this setting, and only those similar to it, could Lillith rely on her upbringing to guide speaking. Otherwise, she would be as awkward herself.

She chose not to call attention to Stephanie's discomfort. Her appearance, it was not the first time it had produced a choked reaction. "It is, yes," she answered with a smile that did not flash her fangs. "I confess," she then offered somewhat conspiratorially, "Winter's Crest is not my favorite festival. I need only look in the mirror if I wish to see so much frost and pale."