The grand hall of the royal palace buzzed with excitement as nobles gathered for the ball. King Alaric Valenwood, resplendent in blue and gold, surveyed the scene. Noblewomen vied for his attention, hoping to become queen. Lady Isolde approached first, seeking a dance and hinting at alliance. Alaric danced politely but remained distant. Lady Seraphina followed, her flirtations deflected with diplomacy. As the night wore on, each noblewoman's advances were met with courteous rejection.