"Well, as long as you're sure," he said. It still didn't sit quite right with him, but he wasn't really in a position to judge another world's traditions.

"In any case, my job is to help both you and your sister look your best here and now. And if the bit of extra confidence that offers helps your dancing stand out too, so much the better. Whatever happens, though, and whichever of you inherits, I hope you can still remain close as brother and sister. I'd hate to see the competition drive a wedge between you."