At 6 bells, Curtains returned to the Grand Hotel. It was only a short walk from there to the Palace where the ball was to be held, but he felt it was prudent not to be tardy. After checking with the concierge to confirm that Lady Serena had not yet appeared, he waited in the luxurious lobby. (1/4)
He watched the comings and goings of the wealthy patrons of the hotel. The night's ball was on everyone's lips, each wondering who might attend and with whom.
At half-past the hour, Curtains heard a sudden murmur pass through the lobby. He looked to the central staircase. (2/4)
A vision of surpassing loveliness was descending as from the skies. Lady Serena wore an elegant gown of brocaded cream silk with raised orange patterns that were complemented by an orange ribbon that was wound through her elaborate hairdo. (3/4)