THE CRIMSON WEAVE

ted lazily along the Grand Canal, their gentle sways matching the rhythm of the serene evening breeze. Among the labyrinth of cobblestone stree

armonious melodies of a live orchestra. Every detail of the event spoke of luxury-from the golden drapery that framed the windows to the exquisite centerpieces of rare orchids a

s intricate beadwork shimmered under the light, each step she took a calculated performance of allure and precision. Her signature lipstick, a bold crimson that matched her dress, was the finishin

from scratch, turning her passion for style into a global phenomenon. Her presence at the gala was expected, even celebrated; Scarlet Vogue was one of the event's primary sponsors. What no one knew,

llano was a kingpin in the international arms market, a broker of chaos whose deals had fueled conflicts across t

ho stood near the edge of the grand ballroom. His rotund figure was adorned in a tailored suit, a garish gold chain peeking out fro

g into the roles she assumed. Tonight, she was the queen of the evening, her charm as disarming as it was lethal.

d the edge of the tray as she retrieved a glass, her movements so fluid that no one noticed

tly brushed his arm, murmuring an apology. The interaction lasted less than a second, but it was enough

is hand clutched at his chest as his face twisted in agony. The room descended into chaos as gue

rimson camellia-a symbol she had adopted as her calling card-on the edge of a silver tray near the exit

er skin as she removed the pins securing her elegant bun, letting her hair cascade in dark waves. She allowed herself a brief moment to sa

g the canal. Azalea descended the rooftop with the ease of someone who had done this a thousa

ue collection-a reminder of the other life she led, the life the world believed was her sole identity. Azalea smirked as she typed a brief response, her m

s. For most, Venice was a place of romance and wonder. For Azalea, it had been just another stage,

nt vigilance and unrelenting challenges. Yet, she embraced it with every fiber of her being. To her, there was no greater thril

had only