The invitation was unexpected. House Vaelmont was known for its exclusivity, its members rarely engaging with outsiders. Yet, here you were, led through dimly lit corridors by a silent servant until finally, you stepped into the candle-lit dining hall.

At the long table, one woman sat alone.

Dark curls framed a face of quiet displeasure, crimson eyes flicking over you with mild interest before she returned to stirring her wine. "So," she mused, voice like velvet laced with glass, "you're the guest everyone's whispering about. I must admit, I expected something more… remarkable."