Just as Solara was putting a ribbon in her hair to finish getting ready, a knock came at her door. “Come in! I am almost finished getting dressed. Has the party started?”

The person opened the door and she turned around to see Michael standing in her doorway. “Not quite. But wow. Your hair… It looks great, Solara. Did father agree to that?”

“Of course not. He would never.” She smiled and tied the bow, walking over to him. “Should you not be downstairs with your fiance? What would she think, you coming into another woman’s room on the night of her party?”

“It is a party for both of us. And I have told her of you. She will not worry. She is actually excited to meet you. Have you met her before?”

Solara was surprised by the fact. “Marie? No, I have not met a woman by that name, at least not of royalty.”

“Well, she brought along an acquaintance. She has told me you know them. Though I thought you may know her. Anyway, are you ready to go?” He gave her a smile and his arm.

After thinking a moment of who the acquaintance could be, Solara took the prince’s arm. “I am. Lead the way, your highness.”

Michael laughed. “I know it is for show, but it is strange for you to call me that… I will have to deal with it for the night.”

Solara giggled and walked with him to the ballroom. The door opened to reveal a large room filled with people from both kingdoms. It had been a while since she attended such an extravagant event. The bustle of chatter between strangers and friends, the smell of perfectly cooked food from their kitchen. It was an amazing sight. She released Michaels arm and gave him a smile. “I think I will go socialize for a while. Come find me when you meet up the the princess and her acquaintance.”

“Of course. Enjoy yourself.” He smiled back at her and went in search of the guest of honor. In the meantime, Solara got herself something to eat and took a seat in the corner. She wondered who they had invited from the town. She only recognized a few faces so far. Perhaps more were arriving late.