He gave a relieved smile at the answer—and the fact that she still seemed to be in good spirits. As she moved to sit, Julius' hand moved to her middle back—not lower; Merlin!—to steady her, knowing that she was likely still out of sorts.

"A small one," the wizard answered apologetically, "but I am afraid a spectacle nonetheless." She was not the first young lady to swoon at a ball and would certainly not be the last, but had the misfortune of being the only one, thus far, to do so at this particular function. That position did, alas, lead to a bit of drama in the air.

"If you feel well enough to stand, we might remove you to the balcony for some air—but only if you feel well enough."