Isabella strutted into the hall wearing a red gown and a face full of makeup, with bright red lipstick to match; her intention to outshine Evie was so clear. She walked with all her maids following her, completely different from Evie's entrance. She was smiling, waving to familiar faces in the crowd, and then sat in the chair next to the big throne. She turned her head, nodding to Evie.
The whole hall fell silent as people started looking at both women on stage, comparing them. Isabella sat upright, her chest puffed out. "Lady Elara, why are you wearing such dull clothes? My lady-in-waiting Hannah is dressed better than you," she asked without turning to face her. "I don't like bright colours as much as you do, I guess", Evie responded.
"Sorry you are alone", she said, laughing. "My debutante party, the emperor escorted me from my pavilion to the hall", she said. "Good for you, I guess", Evie responded, signalling she was checked out of the conversation.
