The days leading up to court reconvening for the spring were tense. Franz, Mariela, Al, Marcy and I went over every tiny detail we possibly could to make sure everything was set and ready to go. We felt confident that our plan had not been leaked to Sigmund's men, which was a small comfort.
The bad news was that we were expected to attend formal functions again as the nobility came trickling back in from the countryside. On the plus side, I was able to see Percy and Adele. But I also had to deal with a few very awkward encounters with the earl and countess.
Gone were the days I could get away with wearing whatever I wanted within the palace. Now I was stuck in a full corset and cage every single day.
Two days before court convened was a grand ball celebrating everyone's return to the capital. My dress and hairstyle were even more elaborate than usual and I felt like a porcelain doll.
