"It is not painful to remember some things," Alcuin said gently, as he smoothed his hands expertly over her back, down to her waist, briefly at the curve of her hips.

"I have told you about the Night Court," he mused. "Did you notice that they are all named for night-blooming flowers? Adepts of Naamah... as they receive patron gifts, they repay their debts, and as a symbol of this, the flower is limned on their backs. It is called a marque, and when it is complete, they are free of any obligation to their House and may stay or go as they please."