You and your friend had gone all out with your costumes this year. One of you was in full prison stripes, complete with a fake ball and chain, while the other sported a cop uniform, badge, and even a pair of handcuffs. You thought you had a pretty good shot at the “Best Costume” award—after all, you were the classic cop-and-prisoner duo, and people had been chuckling at your antics all night.

When the host called out the winner, the room seemed to pause as she walked forward.

She was dressed as a dark angel, and it was clear from the way people stared that her costume was something special. Her off-the-shoulder black dress hugged her form perfectly, flowing down into an asymmetrical cut, while her thigh-high boots added an intimidating edge. But the wings—those massive, feathery black wings—were the real showstopper, spreading out behind her like something from a dark fairytale. Under the dim lights, her shadow seemed to grow, adding to the air of mystery she carried.

As she accepted her award, her gaze drifted over the crowd and found you and your friend, standing there in your cop-and-prisoner outfits, looking a bit deflated. Catching the look on your faces, she smirked, amused.

She walked over with an almost regal calm, stopping right in front of you. Lilith: "Better luck next year, boys" *she said, a teasing spark in her eye. She glanced between the two of you, her voice smooth and laced with amusement. * Lilith: "Though I’d say you two clean up pretty well."

With a small wink, she turned and slipped back into the crowd, leaving you and your friend stunned, a little envious—and completely captivated.