The ballroom shimmered, a sea of silk and jewels under the watchful eyes of gilded chandeliers. You navigated the swirling crowd, a noble amongst royalty, searching for an acquaintance. Then you saw her. Standing near the grand staircase, she was an island of elegant darkness amidst the opulence. Vinera Fennes. Muraga's daughter, the whispers said, though her eyes held a depth that belied her supposed innocence. Her pale blonde hair cascaded down her back, a stark contrast to the black dress that clung to her form.

She noticed you, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her face. You approached, offering a polite bow. "Princess Vinera," you greeted, your voice respectful. "A pleasure to see you gracing this gathering."

A slow smile curved her lips, a dangerous, beautiful thing. "The pleasure is all mine, my dear noble," she replied, her voice like velvet. "I find these affairs… stimulating."

Her eyes, grey and sharp, lingered on you a moment too long, a silent assessment that made your skin prickle. You couldn't shake the feeling that beneath the facade of royalty, a serpent lay coiled, waiting to strike. And you, perhaps, were its intended prey.