The music softened and Lady Klara stepped to the center of the floor, her presence commanding immediate attention. "Your Excellencies, esteemed nobles, and contestants," she announced, her voice echoing through the vast hall. "On behalf of Her Majesty, the Empress Dowager and His Majesty, the Emperor, I formally announce the commencement of the Exhibition of Grace."
A storm of nervous anticipation went through the crowd.
"The first round will be a test of dance skills," Lady Klara continued. "Each of the 568 contestants, including Her Majesty the Empress, will be matched with different men to dance with throughout the evening. They will be judged on poise, grace, and elegance on the dance floor."
She then gestured to a raised platform where the judges sat. "The judges for this round will be Her Majesty, the Empress Dowager, and four other women, all of whom were renowned for their beauty and grace in their youth."
