Chapter 78 – Banquet – I
The royal castle was wrapped in an aura of splendor that defied the night itself. The proud towers, adorned with the banners of the twelve noble families, cut through the dark sky, illuminated by thousands of floating lanterns that cast a golden glow over the obsidian-black fortress. The tall, narrow windows of the main hall shimmered with the light of crystal chandeliers, their flames dancing in a slow rhythm, as if swaying to the symphony of harps and violins echoing from within.
Carriages drawn by majestic creatures, midnight-black horses with eyes glowing like embers, filed toward the grand iron gates. From them descended imposing figures, dressed in garments that blended elegance and power.
Representatives of the twelve demonic families were present, each led by their heads and heirs, their very presence radiating an energy that made the air feel heavier. The colors of their attire—blood-red, royal purple, emerald-green—contrasted against the backdrop, creating a regal aura.
Glenn walked beside Lesley, his expression shadowed, out of place amidst the surrounding festivity. His eyes, once full of determination, now seemed lost, fixed on the polished marble floor that reflected the hall's shimmering lights.
Dressed in a sleek black suit with silver runes embroidered on the lapel, his bowtie neatly fastened with a golden brooch, he looked every bit as refined as the kingdom's most elite. His gloves, also his Nexus, gleamed, adding to his striking appearance. His jet-black hair swayed with his movements, framing a face carefully groomed by Dália and Hera.
Lesley, walking beside him, seemed unshaken. Her long, sensual dress in deep indigo accentuated her poised posture, flawless curves, and sun-kissed skin, her warm brown eyes gleaming. Her blue hair, styled into an intricate floral updo, cascaded elegantly, adorned with golden jewelry at her neck, wrists, and ears. She glanced at Glenn, noting the tension in his shoulders and the storm in his expression.
"Glenn," she began, her voice soft yet firm, like the wind before a storm.
"Hmm..." I murmured in response.
"You need to pull yourself together. This isn't the time to show your inner turmoil," she chided.
"Phew... I know. It's just... I... I..." My words stuck in my throat.
"Glenn, let me ask you something. What do you truly want?"