Mistress Deborah helped Vienna with her hair and makeup, working silently and carefully, muttering to herself once in a while.
"Is everything all right?" Vienna asked her.
"Oh yes, of course. But you are looking stunning in that gown, and your hair and makeup must also be satisfactory. I want you to look perfect tonight-- I have a premonition about this ball."
Vienna frowned. "What sort of premonition?"
"It is a good one." She beamed at Vienna. "We have not had a party here in ages, and everyone seems excited about it. I think this will be a night neither you nor his Highness will ever forget. And you look so beautiful, Vienna. I have never seen you so happy. His Highness will be dazzled."
"Thank you." Touched by her words, Vienna went to the mirror again when Deborah had finished. Sh
