It was the first time I had seen the palace so lively. The palace, which was always silent and cold, was suddenly surrounded by flowers, wine, and candlelight. The waiters walked through the hall, serving the nobles in their fancy clothes.

I stood on the balcony on the second floor, looking down at the guests through the white veil. The women were graceful in their postures and the men were gentle in their manner. They gathered together in twos and threes, greeting each other politely and ...