Do You Dare Defy Me?

Vlad's eyes narrowed as the presence behind the portal became more vivid, the overwhelming sensation creeping into every corner of the grand hall like an invisible tide. Then his expression shifted—widening slightly with something rare for the King of Anbord. Shock. Perhaps even fear. Madeleine, ever perceptive, didn't miss it. She felt it too—a pulse of something ancient, potent, and undeniable. Unlike the others, who could only sense the oppressive weight, Madeleine and Vlad could feel it—deep in their bones, vibrating through their very souls.