Anniversary DelightsChapter 7 Hidden Charms
The 1st April, the day appointed for the start of the competition dawned as the ten entrants were assembled in the anteroom of the Golden Palace harem and each fitted with a numbered abaya by the Chief Eunuch. In the Throne Room the honoured guests were seated in the front row of the audience, facing the throne dais and a second small dais. Off to one side was a larger stage equipped with ten chairs where the contestants would be seated. The second row of chairs were reserved for the...