The palace was beautiful, I could not help but to look at everything while Edwin chuckled, “Welcome home.” I nodded then we got to the dinning room where everyone was waiting and I felt my stomach fall so to distract myself I looked around breathing through the panic when I saw a portrait of every Grand Duke and Duchess including Edwin. He leaned in and whispered, “You will soon have a portrait as well.” I forced a smile and breathed all the way to the front of the room and as we sat so did everyone else.

  “Let the feast begin.” Edwin announced and soon the room filled with noise and unlike home everyone was reaching for what they wanted instead of beings served and I soon realized that if I wanted to eat I had to do the same but before I could decide Edwin took my plate and filled it with a bit of everything, “Sorry that I forgot, I hope this helps.” I sighed with relief and after thanking him took a bit out of a cake and began to eat in earnest all that was in front of me. I could not shake the feeling of being watched like at home and scanned the crowd until I found a woman with black hair and brown eyes glaring at me the same way that Delilah did and I sank a little. Edwin turned to me and seeing my form followed my eyes then sighed and took my hand. “You don't have to be scared Lady Emily won't hurt you.” I forced myself up and whispered, “Who is she?”

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  Edwin looked a little upset, “She was my fiancée before the peace treaty with your family.” “Oh.” I looked back at her and saw that her eyes had not left mine until the older gentleman snapped his fingers to catch her attention and so feeling tears prickle I breathed through it and continued to eat until my plate was empty then Everyone started to get up and form a line in front of us. “They are about to declare their loyalty to us and our own.” Edwin said never letting go of my hand, one by one they gave their oaths and I wished that I could be anywhere but here but I kept my face stern as my father had taught me to.

  Then last to come up was Lady Emily and the older gentleman who was with her, she glared at us both as he gave the oath then Lady Emily snapped, “Oath breaker!” Edwin didn't seem phased as the man smacked her, “Daughter, you know that he gave us peace and don't forget it. I'm sorry but it seems that we will not be able to go to the ball but please have a good time my lord and lady.” Taking her arm he quickly led her away as the other nobles seemed to give her dirty looks or seemed like they expected it. Edwin helped me up and walked me to the doors where Belle was waiting and let go of my hand. “I will see you soon my dear.” I nodded and left unable to hold back my tears any longer I sniffled all the way to my chambers.