As Daphne walked with the ladies, they watched her with looks of envy. They had been so used to seeing her veiled and modestly dressed. They had never seen her look so radiant, never prior to the exhibition of grace.
Lyra spotted her from the crowd and quickly walked over, a look of pure delight on her face. "Daphne! You look incredible!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with admiration. "That dress... it's absolutely beautiful."
Daphne smiled warmly. "Thank you, Lyra. You look just as beautiful yourself."
Daphne and Lyra walked onto the competition field, a different venue from the one used for the Exhibition of Grace. The area had been beautifully decorated with colorful banners and arrangements of vibrant flowers. Two large podiums stood at the center, one, Daphne guessed, was for the judges, as a single, throne-like seat was set upon it.
