100: Familiar Fake Smiles

“This is really an elaborate ball. You have outdone yourself once more, Duchess Natalia,” Lady Lorelei commented as she walked up to Natalia with a glass of wine in her hand. It appeared like she was already tipsy so Natalia searched for her husband or Duchess Everon in the vicinity.

“I have Princess Temara to thank for that. Where is your husband?”

“Who knows? I really enjoy the ambience of this ball. How does one even get this much fresh food in the North?”

“I wonder that as well. Maybe you should sit down and have some water. I will get someone to fetch some for you.”

“Thank….” she hiccuped, “....you.”

Natalia sighed, calling the nearest servant to get her a glass of water. The rest of the guests seemed to enjoy themselves, dancing to folk songs and generally laughing and having fun. She never imagined this was the kind of thing that would happen. The balls at Ducroft were a lot stifling with the exchange of fake smiles and making connections.

“If you keep staring, you might crea