To Qebhet's question about Hecuba, Hecate inclined her head across the other side of the entrance hall, where Hecuba had set up residence at the end of the long refreshment table. "I'll put it this way," she said. "She is sitting by the cheese platter on purpose, but if the cheese platter was any closer to Serene, Hecuba may decide the cheese isn't worth it."
She caught the scent of magic approaching, and turned her head a little to watch Merlin as he joined them. "Your hostess has had a dedicated coven of helpers in the sennight passed," she said. "But she'll gratefully accept your paroxysms on their behalf. Welcome, Merlin. Qebhet, this is Merlin, whose library and advise may prove to be invaluable. Merlin, this is Qebhet, whose heart already has."