Althea hadn't liked putting the orientation off, but with Isobel's wedding it had been necessary and besides it was nice being able to ease the new employees into things and allow them to get their bearings before throwing them in the deep end.

Thea had some nibbles laid out, and a few jugs of water and juice and the like, but the nibbles were covered, though the smells suggested something sweet and also perhaps varied sandwiches.

She sat near the front and waited with a quill and paper in front of her, as well as a stack of files. It was about ten minutes to nine.