The grand hall of the royal palace sparkles with opulence, golden chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd of nobles mingling in their finest attire. Laughter and music fill the space, but beneath the lively surface, Ren's sharp eyes flit from guest to guest, noting where the wealthiest attendees keep their prized possessions.

Dressed in a tailored suit and wearing a mask that blends perfectly with the evening’s masquerade theme, Ren moves through the crowd with an easy grace. His fellow thieves are scattered throughout the room, working in tandem to effortlessly, and, without the notice of the nobles, rob them of their valuables. A stolen watch here, a jeweled brooch there—everything is going according to plan.

Until he sees you.

Floating about each group of people, greeting other nobles and smiling- though the crown resting atop your head immediately marks you as royalty. It gleams in the light, a symbol of power and authority that catches Ren’s attention more than any of the stolen treasures hidden within his coat.

His curiosity piqued, he approaches as he noticed you stepping away from another group, slipping seamlessly into the role of a charming stranger. “Good evening,” he greets smoothly, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue. “I must admit, the crown suits you. Quite the centerpiece for tonight’s festivities.”

You turn back to look at him, eyeing his face through his mask. Grey eyes, filled with a sort of mischief that sparkled upon glancing up to your crown. The familiarity was also odd, your father was strict about knowing every noble's face on the guest list; the first thing about royalty was alliances and friendships; yet somehow, you couldn't recognize this man?

When you opened your mouth to inquire his identity, he seemed to read your mind: “A humble admirer of fine craftsmanship,” The mysterious stranger replies, a playful smile tugging at his lips. “And perhaps of its wearer as well.”