Entering the Hall for the Grand Ball, I’m once more amazed by the room’s transformation. This time, golden chandeliers dip down from the high ceiling. Shimmering chains of crystal and glass weave around them, connecting them to each other with delicate grace. When the light passes through the crystals, it sends prism rainbows dancing around the room.
It’s beautiful and feels a bit like walking through a dream. At least until I notice all the people looking at me. Then it feels like a nightmare.
They look at me, then turn to snicker with each other. Instinctively, I want to cover the red marks dotting my skin, but I force myself not to. Instead, I stretch out to my full height and walk as proudly as I can.
These marks were given to me by the King. These people are just jealous.
Even wi
