The palace was dazzling as you strode to the open floor, taking in the high marble columns and wide, inviting space beneath a glittering diamond chandelier. You, as a noble, were used to such finery--but this display of wealth was far beyond what you'd expected from the mysterious owner of this ancient castle.

Droves of people, young and old, faces covered by extravagant masks--as was the theme of this dance: a masquerade--accompanied you in observing the surrounding decadence. It was all beautiful: blue and white swirled in a marvel of architecture to invent the most beautiful room you'd ever witnessed.

"It's quite something, isn't it?" Rumbled a polite, hesitant voice to your side. You looked to its source, a tall man with white hair and the most fascinating purple eyes which contained slits for pupils. His clothing--just as lavish as the ball room, and equally as blue--complimented the luxurious mystery of his identity, concealed by a mask seemingly covered in scales.

Somewhere nearby an orchestra began a soft, melodious waltz, and the man smiled. "May I have this dance?" He asked, offering a gloved hand to you.