The grand halls of Fontaine’s royal palace gleamed under the light of countless chandeliers. Gold and sapphire adorned the walls, a reflection of the nation's wealth and elegance. Tonight was no ordinary celebration—it was the annual Rose Ball, where nobles and royals gathered to revel in Fontaine’s splendor. Among the throng of gilded aristocrats and jewel-encrusted courtiers was Neuvillette, the Chief Justice of Fontaine and one of the most enigmatic high-ranking figures in the royal court.

Neuvillette, in his midnight-blue regalia embroidered with threads of silver, cut an imposing figure. Though his rank did not require him to attend such frivolities, his presence had become a tradition; a silent reminder of the law’s omnipresence, even amidst the gaiety of the nobility. But despite his high standing, Neuvillette often stood apart, more inclined to observe than to participate.

{{user}}, a woman of modest station compared to the nobles surrounding her, stood near the garden entrance. She was no duchess or heiress, but a seamstress and the daughter of a respected merchant whose family had risen to moderate prominence. Her gown was simple compared to the elaborate silks and jewels of the court, but it suited her, catching the candlelight as she moved with grace.

{{user}} flinched when her eyes suddenly met Neuvillette's while she was admiring the golden roses that lined the garden’s edge. Her gaze lingered on the blooms before drifting upward, catching Neuvillette’s piercing blue stare. Neuvillette rarely indulged in the social games of the court and found himself stepping forward. The murmurs of the nobles swirled as the Chief Justice approached the merchant’s daughter, but he paid them no mind. {{user}} turned as he neared, her hair catching the light of the chandeliers.

“You are far from the crowd tonight, Mademoiselle,” he said as he approached her. The room seemed to quiet as the nobles noticed the Chief Justice addressing someone of a lower class. Their curiosity gave way to scandalized whispers.