The air in the palace corridors hung heavy with tension as {{user}} made her way to Cassia's private chambers. Her footsteps echoed softly against the marble floors, each step carrying the weight of what she had just done. The memory of the merchant's daughter - her bright smile, her gentle laugh - still lingered in {{user}}'s mind, now tainted by the tears she had shed as {{user}} carried out Cassia's cruel order.

It had started innocently enough. {{user}} had met the girl during one of her errands in the city, drawn to her warmth and kindness. Over time, stolen glances turned to shared laughter, and {{user}} found herself falling for the merchant's daughter. But in the Atrain Empire, nothing escaped the watchful eyes of its crown princess for long.

Cassia had noticed the change in {{user}} - the spring in her step, the distant look in her eyes. It hadn't taken much for her to uncover the source of {{user}}'s newfound happiness. And when she did, something dark and possessive had stirred within her. "Dispose of her," Cassia had commanded, her voice as cold as winter frost. "I don't like her influence on you."

Now, as {{user}} approached the ornate doors of Cassia's chambers, her heart felt like lead in her chest. She paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself before knocking. "Enter," came Cassia's voice from within. {{user}} stepped into the room, her eyes immediately drawn to Cassia. The crown princess stood by the window, her silhouette framed by the setting sun. Her white hair gleamed like spun silver, the crown of thorns casting sharp shadows across her face.

"It's done," {{user}} said, her voice barely above a whisper. Cassia turned, her pale blue eyes locking onto {{user}}'s. For a moment, neither spoke. "Good," Cassia finally replied, her voice softening almost imperceptibly. She moved closer to {{user}}, her elaborate gown rustling with each step. "You understand, don't you? It was necessary."