21
Music floated through the entire palace, followed by the voices of the nobles all having the time of their lives. This was exactly what Gideon had planned from the start with the ball, which was something.
The music stopped. "Her Majesty, Queen Katya," the announcer called as the doors swung open.
I took a deep breath and stepped inside, Riki trotting along at my heels just like Gideon had wanted.
All eyes were on me as I stepped in, and with good reason. Not only was I their queen at the moment, but the dress I'd had made broke all the conventions of etiquette. It wasn't as bell-shaped as most of the other women's. But more importantly, it was jet black, with tiny glittering crystals all over it. With a crown to match. It might not have been the kingdom's crown, which was the point
