Later That Week
Saturday — Princess Aria's Birthday
In the dark and mysterious realm of the underworld, Hell,
Upper Chamber
Kingdom of Nephridia
The Palace
The Grand Ballroom Hall
The night of Princess Aria's birthday arrived, and the palace of Nephridia stood blazing in its full infernal glory.
The grand ballroom was alive.
Preparations were in full swing as music drifted through the vast hall, a low, enchanting melody that wrapped itself around the senses. Demons and creatures of the night moved tirelessly, adjusting décor and whispering enchantments, ensuring that everything was flawless for their beloved princess. The ballroom itself was a breathtaking display of opulence and dark elegance.
Crystal chandeliers hung from the impossibly high ceiling, their light warm yet deceptive, casting golden reflections that shimmered across the polished marble floor. Delicate lace curtains billowed softly from open windows, stirred by an unseen breeze that carried the faint scent of magic. The towering walls were draped in luxurious silks of deep purple and molten gold, the fabric catching and bending light with every subtle movement.
Large gilded vases overflowed with fresh roses and peonies, their sweetness mingling with the heavier undertone of dark magic. Black roses—unnatural and exquisite—bloomed among them, while flickering candles burned with eerie flames, casting shadows that seemed to breathe. Gilded mirrors reflected the candlelight endlessly, making the ballroom feel enchanted, vast, and alive.
As guests began to arrive, the atmosphere thickened with excitement and anticipation. Demon nobility, cloaked in flawless human skins paraded into the hall, each bearing gifts meant to impress Princess Aria. Princes, princesses, high-ranking officials, and noble families from every corner of the underworld filled the space, their presence a testament to Nephridia's influence.
A grand table stretched the length of the hall, laid with the finest porcelain dishes and gleaming silverware. Delicate lace tablecloths embroidered with intricate roses and winding vines softened the lavish display. The aroma of exotic, otherworldly dishes wafted through the air, teasing the senses and igniting hunger.
The Kingdom of Nephridia was renowned for its mastery of exorcism, necromancy, and charm enchantment. From its bloodlines came the priests of the underworld—demons whose necromantic arts and enchanted charms had long proven invaluable to the King.
Then, the massive doors swung open.
Princess Aria entered.
She wore a gown woven from shadows themselves, adorned with jewels that glinted like malevolent stars. Her shimmering silver hair cascaded down her back like molten metal, catching the light with every step. But it was her eyes—deep, rich crimson—that held the room captive, as though ancient secrets and forgotten galaxies lived within them. Her porcelain skin contrasted sharply against the darkness of her attire as she moved with otherworldly grace.
Her eyes sparkled with delight as she surveyed the hall, a satisfied smile curving her lips.
The festivities began in earnest.
Dark magic burst into life as illusions danced through the air and flames leapt from enchanters' palms. In one corner, an orchestra played a soft, haunting melody that seemed to weave itself into the flickering candlelight. Laughter and whispers soon filled the room as guests mingled, sipping cocktails and basking in the elegant chaos.
Then, the next arrival silenced everything.
The Sawyer family entered.
Nikki, Amber, Alison, and Sabrina entered together.
The lights reflected off the sequins and beads adorning them as they stepped into the ballroom. Alison wore a sleek red dress that hugged her curves perfectly, the slit revealing flashes of her toned leg. Her dark hair fell in loose waves down her back, lending her an air of effortless sophistication.
Amber sashayed beside her in a vibrant emerald-green gown that accentuated her olive skin. The plunging neckline and open back drew more than a few lingering gazes, while smoky eye makeup and crimson lips completed her dramatic allure.
Between them, Sabrina glided gracefully in a form-fitting black gown that shimmered faintly in the dim light. Her hair was swept into an elegant updo, exposing her delicate neck and shoulders. Crystal earrings caught the light with every movement, highlighting her radiant smile.
Then, the music shifted.
A sultry beat rippled through the hall, and instinctively, all eyes turned to Nikki.
She wore an elegant floor-length gown that shimmered softly in the candlelight. The fabric flowed like liquid silk against her skin—luxurious silk layered with delicate lace that clung to her curves like a lover's embrace. The regal purple fabric, embroidered with silver thread, contrasted beautifully against her porcelain skin, enhancing every delicate feature.
The plunging neckline revealed just a hint of cleavage—teasing, tantalizing. The back dipped low, crisscrossed with thin spaghetti straps adorned with sparkling crystals. Jewel-encrusted buttons cascaded down her spine like falling stars.
The skirt followed a mermaid silhouette, ending in a cascading train that whispered across the floor. With every step she took, the fabric swirled, revealing fleeting glimpses of her long, slender legs through a daring slit. A shimmering silver belt cinched her waist, catching the light with every movement.
Her bare arms were adorned with delicate bracelets, her hair swept into an intricate updo beneath a silver tiara set with deep purple gemstones.
For that moment, Nikki was the center of the universe.
Some guests stared openly, unable to look away. Others despised the mere sight of her—yet still found themselves stealing glances. When the initial spell wore off, whispers spread like poison through the crowd.
"Disgraceful," a princess muttered, her voice dripping with contempt. "A dormant walking among us."
"How dare she show her face here among true demons?"
"Why hasn't she been banished already?" another whispered. "She taints the air we breathe."
The insults continued.
"Get out of here, dormant, while we're still playing nice."
"Disgraces like you are not allowed in sacred gatherings."
Nikki stood silently, her gaze fixed on the floor, shoulders squared. She endured the words with quiet dignity—a calm that only fueled their cruelty.
Then, the heavy oak doors swung open once more.
A boy stepped inside.
An unmistakable aura of intimidation rolled through the hall, sharp and suffocating. A hush fell instantly, as though the air itself had frozen. His presence demanded submission, and with every step he took, heads lowered instinctively.
The Crowned Prince of Hell was here.
His hair was dark as midnight, falling across his forehead in soft waves. But it was his eyes—crimson, piercing—that froze anyone brave enough to meet his gaze. As his sharp gaze swept the room, it landed on Nikki… and the demons tormenting her.
A slow smile curved his lips.
He approached her, stopping directly in front of her, and bowed slightly.
"Greetings, Princess Nikki."
"The crowned prince?" Nikki whispered, disbelief flooding her voice.
Sabrina nudged her urgently.
"My deepest apologies for my rudeness, Your Highness," Nikki said quickly, bowing. "Princess Nikki of the Middle Chamber greets His Highness, the crowned prince."
Why is he so good-looking? she thought, her eyes betraying her as they traced his features.
His blue tuxedo shimmered with intricate gold embroidery. Beneath it, a black waistcoat and crisp white shirt completed the ensemble. A velvet cloak cascaded down his back, and a jeweled rapier rested at his waist. A golden crown set with sapphires adorned his head.
"There's no need to be too formal," he said with an easy smile.
Nikki looked away at once, heat rising to her cheeks—she hadn't realized she'd been staring.
A man rushed forward and dropped to one knee.
"My prince, it's taboo to speak to her. She's the dormant from the Middle Chamber."
"I don't remember asking for your opinion," the crowned prince replied coldly.
"I deeply apologize, my prince," the man said, bowing his head.
The room erupted into whispers.
"Why is the crowned prince taking interest in her?"
"Maybe it's out of pity."
"He must have an ulterior motive."
"I can't stand the sight of that dormant breathing the same air as my beloved prince."
"Can't she just drop dead already?"
The crowned prince smirked.
With a casual wave of his hand, crushing energy flooded the hall. Bodies froze. Screams erupted as pressure bore down on every soul—everyone except Nikki.
"What happened to the respect you had when I came in?" he asked calmly, increasing the pressure.
"Your Highness," Nikki called out, her voice steady despite the chaos.
"You must be pretty impressive," he remarked, "if you can withstand my pressure."
"You flatter me, Your Highness," she replied, managing a small smile.
"Is there anything you wish for?" he asked. "Ask, and I'll do it for you."
"If Your Highness doesn't mind," Nikki said softly, "I'd like you to release everyone."
He paused, clearly taken aback. "Is that really what you want?" he asked, surprised.
"I'd like to remind you that we're at the birthday party of a high-ranked princess. It is a sacred gathering. And besides, you're hurting the birthday girl on her special day."
"You do have a point," he admitted. "She did nothing wrong."
With another wave of his hand, the crushing energy dissolved. Bodies collapsed, gasping for breath.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Nikki said, bowing deeply as he turned and made his way toward the grand gilded throne.