For months now, the invitation has been out.

Bienvenue au bal masqué.

In the glasses, nectar is poured without a second thought. Elongated silhouettes take shape among dancers wearing costumes finely crafted by local artisans.

Bienvenue au bal masqué.

I place the mask over my features, making them vibrant, luminous, and fresh. I enter the manor where fire-breathers, harlequins, opera singers, and gymnasts mingle. I am among my own.

Bienvenue au bal masqué.