133 ---

¬ HILN

The large hall was ablaze with rummaging royals and nobles, more of whom had appeared than at the previous gathering. Though most of them were appearing because they were curious about me, further solidified by the few fixed stares and multiple hidden ones. 

To my surprise, someone I had least expected approached me just as I made my way to the hall. 

"Hello," Lady Dana greeted, a faint smile on her lips, and her eyes holding a distinct awareness that made me pause. "Your Royal Highness, Hiln, Choska, or which should I use to address you?" she asked, her voice nearing a whisper. 

I jerked my head back, my mouth nearly dropping open.