<div style="text-align: justify;">While the next weeks were one kind of work at Damon's household, another kind of work was going on in the McAllister home. Definitely a lighter work, but by no means less painstaking. Invitations were sent out, confirmations were received - none of the invited nobles declined this time - and accommodations were prepared for those who would have to stay the night. Menus were prepared - everything down to the last detail - and rooms were set for gentleman to smoke and for ladies to tidy up their dresses or powder their noses between a dance and the next.<br/><br/>Everything had to be perfect, after all. A renowned pianist was hired, and he would bring along a lady singer. Accommodations were made for both at the employee's wing, as the ball would last through the night.<br/><br/>For three weeks, the house was a beehive of activity, no detail being left to chance. But when the day finally came, everything was ready. The gardens had tents with comfortable benches at regular intervals, refreshments were arranged outside. Inside, all of the rooms where the guests would circulate had fresh flowers, and mirrors had been arranged to be placed here and there as to give a feeling of space to the already large rooms.<br/><br/>The piano was perfectly polished, and waited for the pianist to draw those wonderful notes only a skilled player could. At the door, a well dressed butler made sure to make acquaintances and announce the guests. When Damon reached the door, he would be greeted with a deep bow. "Welcome, my lord. Which name should I introduce, please?"</div>