Early morning at the Crown Prince's Palace.
Count Hodges made his way toward the Prince's chambers, carrying two large velvet boxes of pale pink. These parcels had arrived from Marquis Ethel's residence just moments ago, containing the Prince's formal attire and accompanying footwear.
A card dusted with sweet perfume was affixed to the elaborate ribbon adorning the top of each box.
"I shall finish my preparations and enter the palace shortly.Your Maria."
The contents were identical to those of any other banquet. It had become routine for Maria Ethel to arrive at the palace on each day of the festivities, dressing alongside the Prince before accompanying him to the celebration.
Yet Count Hodges paused mid-stride. His gaze drifted toward the garden visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
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