The grand ballroom glittered with crystal chandeliers and whispered secrets. Faces hidden behind ornate masks smiled with dangerous promises, and every step echoed with silent threats.
Aria – The Game Begins
I moved through the crowd like a shadow, every sense heightened. The scent of expensive perfume mixed with sweat and something darker—fear.
Raiden stayed close, a silent guardian.
"Stay sharp," he murmured. "He's here somewhere."
I nodded, heart pounding. I had never felt so exposed yet so alive.
---
Eyes Behind the Mask
Across the room, I caught a glimpse of him.
Tall. Dark. With a smile that didn't reach his cold, calculating eyes.
Il Principe.
His presence pulled at the air like gravity, and every instinct screamed danger.
Raiden's grip tightened on my arm.
"Don't let him see you," he warned.
---
Whispers and Threats
A silk-gloved hand brushed mine as I navigated the crowd.
"Beautiful night, isn't it?" a smooth voice whispered.
I turned slightly—an ally or a foe? The man smiled beneath his mask but his eyes were unreadable.
"Careful where you step," he said. "Some snakes bite harder when cornered."
Raiden appeared beside me.
"Leave," he hissed to the man.
The man laughed, a sound like broken glass.
"Not yet. The dance has just begun."
---
A Deadly Waltz
Il Principe finally approached, his mask a devilish smile.
"Ms. Aria," he said, voice silky but venomous. "I've heard so much about you."
I held my ground, refusing to show fear.
"Then you should know—I'm not the one you want."
He chuckled darkly.
"Oh, but you are. You're the last piece of a puzzle I intend to complete."
Raiden stepped forward, the tension snapping like a wire.
"Back off."
---
A Silent Warning
Il Principe smiled wider.
"Careful, Raiden. This game is more dangerous than you think."
With that, he disappeared into the crowd, leaving a chill that settled in my bones.
---
Raiden – Protector and Predator
We left the ball quickly, shadows swallowing us.
Raiden's jaw was clenched. "He's planning something. And it's coming fast."
I looked at him, determination burning inside.
"Then let's be ready to burn it down first."
---
End of Chapter 29