After dressing for the banquet, Belle was escorted by guards to the royal carriage, where she joined Hezekiah for the journey.
Hezekiah couldn't help but notice how composed and confident Belle seemed. Her determination to emerge from the shadows and better herself was both admirable and tempting, it made him want to offer his help. But he knew her well enough to understand that she wouldn't accept his hand openly. Instead, he resolved to assist her quietly, from the sidelines, without risking rejection.
"Could I ask you a small favor?" Belle broke the silence as they rode toward their destination.
"What is it?" He asked, turning toward her with interest.
"I would like to familiarize myself with the guests at the banquet. Would it trouble you to introduce them to me as we move through the hall?" She requested, her voice steady yet hopeful.