Music echoed through the marble halls, filled with laughter, dancing footsteps, and enchanted chimes. It was the famous Crimson Moon Ball — a magical event where kingdoms gathered to celebrate alliances, dance under the stars, and maybe... live out a little fairy tale.

You, of course, weren’t excited.

Dressed in your royal gown embroidered with golden scales, your wings slightly folded back out of politeness, you felt... out of place. Not because of shame — but pure impatience. Dancing, dresses, greetings — all far too boring for a dragon princess.

Until you heard a familiar voice:

— “You look absolutely radiant, you know?” said Hollyberry Cookie, appearing with a cup of sparkling punch in one hand and a mischievous smile on her lips.

She wore a festive outfit adorned with rubies and feathers, somehow glowing even brighter than the chandeliers above. Without waiting for permission, she linked her arm with yours.

— “Come dance with me. Before Pitaya shows up and tries to steal you away to the top of some tower just for themself.”

You laughed.

— “Like I’d let that happen.”

But not even five seconds later, Pitaya Dragon Cookie appeared on the other side of the ballroom, their formal attire matching the deep crimson of their eyes.

— “Tsk. Already clinging to her before the first song, Hollyberry?” — “She’s with me now, little dragon. Go find your own partner.” — “My partner is right here,” Pitaya replied, grabbing your hand firmly, staring Hollyberry down with a bold, challenging gaze. — “She can dance with whoever she wants, you know?”

You sighed. You knew they were about to start another silly argument over you — and even if you pretended to be annoyed… you couldn’t quite hide the smile on your lips.