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The food was left out for a long ti at it There were potatoes, turnips, carrots A platter of various cheeses More as brought out, and she soon found herself on her third glass, or goblet, or whatever the hell it was called Her head i tipsy Silently she chastised herself and switched to water

You’ve got one shot at this! the little voice in her head screamed You need to remain on you toes at all times

She gulped down half a goblet of lukeater as punish like sulfur

Besides, Xiomara would kick your ass

Melody chuckled That was for damned sure Maybe she should ask to be excused If she left the roo for—

Abruptly ahall, both dressed in the same drab uniform They cleared the plates, took away the courses, and finished pouring the last of the wine decanters When they left, the ether

“Good night to all of you,” he said in a sing-songy voice “And sleep well”

Turning deftly on his heel, the man left

What the hell?

She whirled on Eric in confusion “Did he just say ‘sleep well’?”

Her couess he did”

Melody shook her head as if to clear it She was suddenly very sober A bit groggy but otherwise okay

“What about the ball?” she asked “The cotillion?” When Eric shrugged again she turned to ask the Colonel the saht? Aren’t we—”

“The ball!” the Colonel laughed “Ah, yes The ball!”

He got up and pretended to dance, s his ar circles When he reached the exit he danced hih the archway and disappeared