The royal palace of the Vendal kingdom buzzed with activity as everyone prepared for Princess Alora Vi Vendal's birthday celebration.
As night descended, the moon bathed the palace's white marble façade in a serene glow.
Noblemen's carriages rolled slowly toward the venue, contributing to the festive atmosphere with the lively hustle and bustle characteristic of such a grand occasion.
Amidst the crowd, three women hurried down the cobbled streets leading to the grand gates.
Their whispered conversation was animated and filled with intrigue.
"Have you heard about the situation in the Ronen duchy?" one woman murmured, her fan partially obscuring her face as she glanced at her companion.
"Yes, it seems Duchess Maria has been struggling to manage her dealings with the Liander duchy," another replied, the tension in her voice palpable.