Masquerade

Light played on the iridescent feathers of the Kingfisher mask. The huge, dark glass eyes looked strange. An enticing danger, a challenge. Or mockery?

Nico shook her head and looked around her room. It was small, the mask was bulky, and she was foolish for not re-selling it. Though she wasn't so short on either cash or space she couldn't afford a bit of sentimentality. That was all there was to it. Right?

There were people in town she could consult to find out if the mask was enchanted or haunted. But quite apart from the cost, she didn't want to. She was quite sure the feeling of being someone slightly different when wearing it was all in her head. It was the same in other situations where she had to, or wanted to, pretend.

And if she was wrong? Well, it would be rude poking into the mind of anything with a personality, particularly if you liked him. It. Whatever.

That was a better reason than, I like the little thrill of this doubt.

When Nico arrived, Sylvie stared. From Nico's grin and expectant look, she judged that surprise had been the desired reaction, and asked, "Why is your hair pink?"

"It's dyed. I won a bet."

"Won or lost?"

"Won. Someone bet me I wouldn't dye my hair pink. Didn't know me as well as he thought he did."

Taking in the slightly frilly dress, and cat's ears, Sylvie asked, "And the rest?" They were not going to a costume party.

"Just seemed to go with it well."

If it was a joke at Nico's expense, she sure had fun with it, anyway.