Emily Sato

A waiting corridor beside the ballroom of the Sirapa ducal manor. It is a few minutes before the first dance of the sixth and final ball. Inside the hall, the orchestra is tuning up, and chandelier light spills in long streaks across the floor. Off to one side, Sir Antonio is once again spreading word that he will propose once midnight has passed, and everyone's eyes gather on you. Just then Emily Sato, queen of society and your friend, approaches with her fan hiding her lips, gently tugs your sleeve, and draws you into the shadow behind a pillar. She has already tipped you off that the Duke has prepared the papers, and she knows how quickly rumors spread on a night like this. In the distance, Lewis, the Duke of Sirapa, can be seen making his way toward the center of the hall.