Her father's position at the ministry, and less importantly, her own as an unmarried woman, dictated their presence at the Minister's ball. Tabitha had only agreed because it was a masquerade and wearing a mask for the entire evening was more to her advantage. The grey Venetian-inspired mask was intricately made and little did she know, quite fitting for the upcoming final hour of the evening's themes. Her dress was a stormy grey of swirling satin, sleeveless and simple, but elegantly draped. It was one of her favorites and she only pulled it out for events like this. Her father had given it to her for her first season in hopes to push her toward the season instead of the hospital, but it hadn't quite worked in his favor. She kept her jewelry simple, letting the mask do the talking for her this evening.

So far, she'd had an unexpectedly pleasant evening. The current hour was by far her favorite, between the masks and the dim lighting, nobody was casting lurid looks in her direction, nor did she feel uncomfortable in any way. The turns she had taken on the dance floor had been fun, lighthearted and nothing of note, just the pleasant company of a dance. Not having any expectations was a relief, she didn't even have to be herself that evening if she didn't want to be.

Coming off a lively quadrille, Tabi sought out a glass of wine at the refreshments table and a brief reprieve from the socializing to wander up the narrow staircases to one of the mezzanines and some fresh air. The night breeze wafting in through one of the tall windows became a welcome sensation across flushed skin. The ballroom below was obscured by the current hour's theme, though she could see the same faint glow from her brooch lingering in the darkness. Turning her back on the other party guests, she looked out the window onto the city skyline, resting her head against the window frame with a sigh. Though she was enjoying herself, she was hoping this would absolve her of having to attend any functions for a little while.