The day of the Solstice Ball dawned with a hysterical energy that vibrated through the castle stones. Maids were crying over centerpieces. Guards were polishing their halberds until they could see their own souls. The kitchen smelled of roasted boar and panic.
Elian sat on his bunk in the servant's quarters, ignoring the chaos.
He was busy shopping.
[Current LP: 265]
"I can't go to the ball in a valet uniform," Elian muttered, scrolling through the [Apparel] tab. "If I want to survive the night—and keep the Prince's attention away from the political shark tank—I need to look less 'May I take your coat?' and more 'I am the coat'."
He needed armor. Not steel plate, but social armor.
His eyes landed on a limited-time item.
[Item: The Phantom Silk Suit (Rental - 24 Hours)][Cost: 150 LP][Effect: +50 Charisma. +20 Mystery. Applies a subtle 'Noble Aura' that confuses lower-level NPCs about your social standing.]
