The sun began to set slowly beyond the edge of the desert, staining the entire Dunecrest Kingdom in deep gold and crimson sunset hues. A warm breeze carried fine grains of sand through the market alleys, where merchants were packing up their stalls one by one, and street musicians played soft melodies under swaying lanterns. The entire city glowed like a mirage sculpted from sun and flame.

Two travelers walked slowly through the massive city gates. Lucian walked quietly, his face showing the fatigue of a long journey, with Vesper by his side. Desert dust rested lightly on their clothes, and a strange mix of tension and familiarity—only found between those who have endured dangerous journeys together—flowed between them. The palace was incredibly magnificent under the darkening sky. Golden silk banners fluttered from massive sandstone pillars, and rounded domes sparkled under countless lanterns. Faint music drifted from a high balcony, its melody mixing with the warm night breeze to make the entire kingdom feel like a dream.

It was then. The massive palace gates began to open slowly. Guards who saw the movement bowed in unison, and servants dressed in gold and ivory stepped aside to create a path. And then, she appeared. Guest emerged slowly at the top of the stairs like someone walking out of an ancient legend. Thin, translucent fabrics flowed behind her like smoke, and the golden ornaments embroidered upon them shimmered brilliantly under the lanterns. The jewelry adorning her wrists and ankles made clear sounds with every step, the rhythm feeling like music meant to enchant the soul. But it wasn't just simple beauty that stole people's gazes. There was an overwhelming presence around her, as if the world itself naturally bent to her will. Lucian stopped dead the moment he saw her. A look of surprise flashed across his face. Guest also stopped on the stairs. At first, she wore the face of a perfectly elegant and cold princess. But soon, her eyes wavered.