Of course, it goes without saying, that she sabotaged her step-sisters’ outfits. Her outfits were not as spectacular as hers but she was not going to take any chances. From each she took one shoe and threw them away. Then she completely destroyed the skirt of one and the bodice of the other. She was sure that this would stop them from going.

Lavina and Riberta were devastated. There was no time to make more outfits and shoes for the Ball was going to start within the hour. It would seem that Emma had succeeded and that there was no way they could attend.

Joyfully and laughing gaily, Emma left for the Ball. She was convinced that she would be chosen to become the Queen before the night was out. There would be no-one there that could compete with her.

As she made her grand entrance every eye was on her, even the King stopped what he was doing to observe her. At this point there was no doubt in her mind that he had already chosen her to be his Queen.

Her bearing was regal and arrogant. The servants she treated with complete disdain to the point that she spoke to them as if they were just dogs. Nothing and no-one would stand in her way now.

To her surprise, another guest arrived at the Ball. There was something odd about her. Her shoes were miss-matched and her gown was of two different colours and materials. It was as if her bodice was of one gown and her skirt of another.

The King was instantly attracted to her. She bore herself in a regal manner, yet modest and talked kindly to the servants, even thanking them for any service provided.

All night he danced with her, totally enchanted by her. This woman had to become his Queen. Many times he tried to remove the mask but each time she gently stopped him.

Emma was furious, the more furious she became the rougher she treated the servants around her, to the point of even striking some. Emma made up her mind that the moment she found out who this woman was she would kill her.

Just before the Ball was to finish and all had to unmask, the mysterious woman slipped out of the King’s grasp and ran away. There was no stopping her for she was as nimble and as quick as a gazelle.

The King was desolate, he had to find her. Without even seeing her face he had fallen in love with her. He had fallen in love with her goodness and her gentle soul. He offered a huge reward if anyone could lead him to her, but no-one seemed to know anything.