Chapter 11: A Nightmare had Begun

As the grand doors creaked open, the royals stepped forward, their presence commanding the vast hall.

At the forefront stood—

Waikatsu Bravestone.

The man revered as the Emperor of Humanity—the undisputed ruler of all humankind. He wore a pristine white ceremonial robe, adorned with intricate gold and red embroidery, a testament to his divine authority. Resting atop his head was a golden crown, its design resembling angelic wings, symbolizing both power and divinity. His long white hair cascaded down his back, complementing his flowing white beard, while his golden eyes shimmered with wisdom and dominance.

Beside him stood his Empress—

Waikatsu Elina.

A woman whose very presence could bring even the heartless to tears. Draped in a white gown, embroidered with the same gold and red patterns, she embodied grace and benevolence. Her crown, delicately crafted with flower motifs, rested atop her head, where strands of wheat-colored hair intertwined with her flowing white locks. The soft glow of magical lights illuminated her features, making her crimson-red eyes appear almost hypnotic.

Behind them followed the two princes of Valoria.

Waikatsu Elios.

The second oldest, carried himself with quiet authority. A long white sword, its blade adorned with golden floral engravings, hung at his side. Upon his head sat a crown intricately designed with praying hands, with delicate golden strings draping over its center like a spider's web, adding an air of solemnity to his regal aura.

Beside him walked.

Waikatsu Echelle.

The eldest of the siblings, mirroring his brother's attire. His pure white hair flowed like silk, and his golden eyes, identical to the emperor's, gleamed with inherited wisdom. Unlike his brother's sword, he carried a greatsword, its pristine white blade adorned with golden patterns of sorrowful tears, as if mourning the weight of responsibility he bore.

At the end of the royal procession walked the two princesses.

Waikatsu Shina.

The third oldest, draped in an exquisitely decorated white gown, exuded an air of mystique. A golden scarf covered her hair and subtly veiled her eyes, leaving only an aura of mystery behind. In her delicate hands, she held a blue crystal rose, shimmering under the ethereal glow of the palace lights.

Beside her, the youngest sibling.

Waikatsu Mizuko.

Mirrored her sister's attire but held a pink crystal rose in her grasp, its petals glistening with an innocent charm.

The melodic harmony of the violin and piano resonated through the grand hall, silencing the crowd with its enchanting tune. The presence of the Royals commanded awe—so perfect, they transcended the very definition of perfection.

As the air grew heavy with reverence, everyone knelt. Ray, confused but instinctively following the crowd, lowered himself a moment later than the rest.

"My people of Valoria, you may now lift your heads"

The emperor's deep yet soothing voice resonated through the hall. One by one, the guests rose, a wave of movement flowing across the room.

"Honored natives and esteemed guests from across Aethyra, please enjoy our celebration"

The emperor proclaimed, raising a glass of crimson wine.

The music continued, weaving an atmosphere of serenity. No words were spoken—only melodies and joyous expressions filled the space. It felt like.....

.....nothing could possibly go wrong.

The banquet proceeded without interruption. An hour passed since the Royals' arrival.

Then, without warning, the air turned deathly cold.

The warmth of the hall was swallowed by an eerie silence—not just quiet, but a suffocating, unnatural stillness.

Confusion rippled through the guests. Murmurs turned to wary glances.

"What is happening?"

The emperor's voice broke the silence, laced with tension.

Ellios and Echelle stepped forward, hands on the hilts of their blades. Their instincts screamed danger.

The sharp scent of blood filled the air.

Not just a single drop.

Not just one life.

Many—

MANY.

SLAM!

The grand entrance burst open, thick, shadowy mist spilling into the room like a living entity.

And then—severed heads came hurtling toward them.

Ellios reacted in an instant, casting a shimmering barrier that halted the grisly projectiles before they could reach the stunned guests.

A nightmare had begun.