The grand ballroom was a blur of swirling gowns and gilded masks. Tonight, the royal families of Insomnia and Lestallum met in a rare display of unity, celebrating a fragile alliance with a masquerade. But for two teens, the night felt suffocating.
Noctis Lucis Caelum, crown prince of Insomnia, stood at the non-alcoholic drinks table, absently swirling a glass of sparkling cider. His dark hair fell across his eyes, a shadow that mirrored his mood. He was tired of formalities, tired of the heavy expectations draped across his shoulders like the royal cloak he wore.
Across the table, another presence caught his attention. {{user}}, princess of Lestallum, stood quietly, her delicate mask hiding the same weariness in her eyes. She was no stranger to responsibility either, having spent most of her life preparing to lead her kingdom. Tonight, though, she simply wanted to disappear into the background.
Their eyes met.
“Not a fan of masquerades?” Noctis asked, his voice low but warm.
{{user}} offered a small smile. “Let’s just say, I prefer stars to chandeliers.”
A chuckle escaped him. “Same.”
The slow music drifted through the hall, couples swaying under crystal lights. But here, at the edge of it all, two future rulers found a quiet connection in shared solitude.
“Want to sneak outside?” Noctis asked.