The Princess Bride
Wearing: x
The grand halls of Theed shimmered beneath cascading chandeliers and soft golden light, every polished marble surface reflecting the glamour of Naboo's elite gathered for the evening gala. Nobles draped in silks and jewels moved through the palace-like venue in elegant clusters, their laughter blending seamlessly with the music of a live orchestra stationed beneath one of the sweeping archways. Crystal glasses clinked softly alongside quiet political conversations, subtle flirtations, and carefully practiced smiles.
The evening's opera performance had only just concluded, leaving the atmosphere steeped in lingering emotion from the famed galactic singer whose voice had filled the hall like something almost supernatural. Even now, fragments of the melody still drifted through Gwen's thoughts as guests returned to dancing, drinking, and social maneuvering beneath the stars of Naboo.
Princess Guinevere Cavello had attended enough of these events by now to know the rhythm of them. Since her arranged engagement and extended stay on Naboo, high society gatherings had become almost routine, lavish dinners, charity functions, operas, endless introductions to important families whose names blurred together after a while.
Tonight, however, the noise of the ballroom had become suffocating.
So Gwen had slipped away.
She now stood alone upon one of the sprawling balconies overlooking the dark waters beyond Theed, cool evening air stirring the delicate layers of her midnight-blue gown. Below, the lake reflected the city lights in shimmering ribbons of gold and silver while distant boats drifted lazily across the surface. The sounds of the gala were muted here, softened by the open air and the quiet lull of water against stone.
A few steps behind her stood Taza.
As always.
The older woman maintained her perfectly composed posture near the balcony entrance, hands folded neatly before her with that same crisp smile that never fully revealed what she was thinking. Even at a gala filled with senators, royalty, and affluent dignitaries, Taza's sharp eyes remained constantly observant.
Gwen rested her forearms lightly against the balcony railing, gazing out over the water for a long moment and sighing, enjoying the air on her face.
