Karenine was dumbstruck, but no in a bad way. For once, a man didn't suck it up and enuure all her remarks. Over the years, men have done all they could in order to gain even the slightest of favor from her. Only a handful have suceeded in becoming a form of friend with her. However, they weren't men who seek riches and power. They are people who have a cause, which, to their luck, was in line with what she protects. "I changed my mind, Sir Charles of Adellan. You've certainly become an interesting man," Karenine whispered to herself, using the fan to cover her face, hiding the smile that formed, as she watched him walk away.<br/><br/>****<br/><br/>That night, Karenie was excused by the queen to prepare for tonight's ball. The gown she was to wear has been laid out and the maids rushed to make her hair perfect for the occassion. Karenine had allowed jewels be adorned in her hair, taking out the small diadem made of silver and pearls. The maids have arranged her hair, so that her wavy raven black hair are intricately designed, where long curled strands flowed down her neck. Pearls were placed in several strands of her hair, making it so that if she turned a certain way, they would "peek" from certain areas. Her gown was of a<a class="link link--external" data-proxy-href="/proxy.php?link=https%3A%2F%2F78.media.tumblr.com%2F3a2d0070c047626b5612a144916ff046%2Ftumblr_p5te55TdCK1xn0pnko7_500.jpg&amp;hash=fab02bb6a89aee8570a4501d5c8a0cf2" href="https://78.media.tumblr.com/3a2d0070c047626b5612a144916ff046/tumblr_p5te55TdCK1xn0pnko7_500.jpg" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" target="_blank">slightly dark blue with black embroideries, underskirts and lining of black</a>, a perfect contrast to her pale skin and dark hair. "You look lovely, my lady," complimented one of her maids, as they made final touches to her hair and gown. "As long as I am not lovelier than the queen, I'm satisfied," Karenine replied, checking herself in the mirror.<br/><br/>The ball was grand, with the queen allowing the use of the large grand ballroom of the castle. Every high noble was in attendance, even those who has the lowest title have decided to join the gathering. Long tables have been seet by the walls, with food and refreshments available for the guests. The middle of the hall was left for dancing, which many bachelors have taken up with the women they have decided to eye for the night. An orchestra was placed by the terrace situated on a terrace, right above the entryway. the walls and windows are decorated with rich cloths made to mimic curtains, and everyone was enjoying the time. But it wasn't the grandeour and extravagance of the ball that attracted them, but rather it was the honored guest, the new Earl of Adellan, sir Charles, who is to present himself to the queen, with the man vouching for his status. That is, to proove that the will is indeed true.<br/><br/>"I wonder if he will present himself soon? Was he a good man, when you talked to him Karenine?" whispered the queen, as she made sure she was being discreet. She sat upon her throne, in a magnificent green gown, a diadem of gold and diamonds, and elaborate necklaces. Her throne is elevated by dais with a few steps. Karenine stood a step below the throne, trying to act like she was enjoying the public display.<br/><br/>"Interesting, my lady, that is a word I am certain describes him well," she replied with a soft smile on her face. The light from the many candles that light the whole room made her pale skin glow and reflect welll from her dark clothing. "I am sure he shall be presented to the court in a little while, your majesty."