"Announcing the Saintess, Lady Esme Hail, and her escort, Sir Adom Hail."
The man's words boomed throughout the ballroom, and soon, a familiar scene played out. Amongst the opulence of the Palace's interior, scores of nobles curtsied and bowed their heads at my entrance. I had been to dozens of balls before this one, but tonight was different in several respects. One, this was the first ball I would be hosting, one of my own design. Two, Axel will be formally presented to High Society tonight, and lastly, I will experience my first scandal.
I made my way down the steps into the throngs of finely dressed men and women. Familiar faces greeted me warmly, while I was also introduced to strangers. I smiled, and listened intently to each of them, knowing that with my reputation, I would never
