Hollow Grounds

Her eyes

«  Stop! Don't move ! You're on hollow grounds !!! »

Her eyes flickered open. The day she dreaded had finally arrived. She patted her shoulder and mumbled some words of encouragement to herself.
' You've got this Luna'. It was time for her to be initiated into the society. It was a norm for any girl who had come of age to attend the ball - coming of age means getting married. That's what she feared.
The attendants were already waiting for her.
' Young miss , we're here to get you ready.' It was an older woman that spoke.

After countless efforts to make her look 'prim and neat' , they finally left the room. The sun was setting. She admired the sunset from her window, which overlooked the grassy lawns of her house. A carriage was parked in-front of the house. It was time to go for the ball.
George, her father was at the door waiting for her. He held his breath as she elegantly descended the stairs. 'Luna you look gorgeous ' he mumbled under his breath.
He was happy - that's an understatement he was elated.

His only daughter had finally come of age. What more could he wish for? But there was this unfathomable expression on his face as he took her hand and led her to the carriage. He paused in his tracks and smiled worriedly at her, ' Luna dearest, can you promise me that no matter what happens you'll be safe ?' It was more of a plea than what he intended.
Luna took his hand and kissed his cheek . "I'll be fine father ", she assured him.
She knew her father was worried about her going out into the world. She would eventually have to move in with her husband - hmm that word. She'd be fine , she promised herself.
****
They arrived at the entrance of the royal palace of Lyra. Luna took a deep breath and made her way to the ballroom with George.

The ballroom was large with high ceilings and an ample space for dancing. The ceilings were embellished with plaster medallions and scalloped edgings. The walls were adorned with paintings. There was a balcony that overlooked the dance floor, and a warm romantic glow that illuminated the place. The lights that reflected off the polished floors created a captivating ambience. There was an opening floor area for seating. There were small groups of people chattering amongst themselves.
' Is it not our renowned business man ?'an older man said. ' Lionel' George replied. He didn't seem happy to meet him
but his friend didn't bat an eye. "Come on George, it's her night. Let her be." Lionel said jokingly.
" She's lived under your shadow for too long," he patted his friend's shoulders. " She can make her way around a party" he continued. Reluctantly, he left with his friend. He turned back to Luna for an assuring smile and walked away.

Luna made her way to the food stand and tried some of the delicacies. She was going to eat her worries away.
She felt someone watch her. She unconsciously turned to the person's direction and she froze.....