The grand hall of the palace shimmered under hundreds of gas lamps and crystal chandeliers. The orchestra played a soft waltz, the music rising and falling like waves. Everyone had been holding their breath when the royal family entered. Now the king stood tall, with his grey beard neatly trimmed and his deep blue robe embroidered with gold thread, he raised his hand.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he said, with his warm voice echoing easily over the room. "Lift your heads. This is a night of celebration, not ceremony."
A ripple of relief passed through the crowd. They lifted their heads as smiles returned to their faces.
