The Grand Hall of Vermillion Palace buzzed with activity, its opulent interior filled with the hushed murmurs of anticipation and the rustling of elaborate gowns. Nobles arrived one after another with their families and retainers, filling the previously spacious hall to capacity. Over a thousand people mingled in the grand hall, where connections were being made, deals struck, pacts signed, and trades arranged amidst the backdrop of glittering chandeliers and polished marble floors.
The nobles didn't let this rare gathering of every power in the Empire go to waste. They seized the opportunity to strengthen alliances, some even arranging marriages between families to secure their futures. The heirs of different noble houses also mingled, forming friendships that would be invaluable when it was their turn to lead. The air was thick with the scent of rich perfumes and the savory aroma of the banquet being prepared, promising a night of indulgence and revelry.
The banquet came to life with food and drinks being served by an army of well-trained servants. Golden platters piled high with delicacies from across the realm—roast pheasant, spiced venison, and exotic fruits—were placed on tables draped with silken cloths. Goblets of the finest wines sparkled under the warm glow of candlelight. People enjoyed the beautiful music played by a small orchestra tucked into one corner of the hall, and some couples even stepped onto the dance floor, allowing themselves to be swept away by the enchanting melodies.
Soon, Duke Izark Gremory joined the banquet, his arrival announced by a guard whose voice echoed through the grand hall. The entire hall turned toward him, recognizing him as the main star of the evening. Many nobles approached to greet him, and he responded with warm wishes, his presence commanding respect and admiration.
He then made his way to greet the other eight Dukes, each greeting a display of political finesse. For the other nobles, being greeted or ignored by Duke Izark was inconsequential, but he had to pay respect to these eight individuals, as they held significant power in the Empire. Each one was a pillar supporting the Empire, their influence extending far beyond their own domains.
The nine Dukes of the Zinovia Empire were Duke Martin, Duke Ronald, Duke Marcus, Duke Solomon, Duke Joseph, Duchess Salvina, Duchess Katarina, Duke Olgel, and Duke Izark himself. These great families had rendered meritorious service to the Empire, earning the hereditary title of Duke. Each family wielded considerable military power and resources, not limited to the Miraz plane but extending to multiple planes, their reach vast and formidable.
Zain, Draig, and Lilith also joined the banquet, garnering significant attention as they entered the hall. Zain, adhering to noble customs, attended to each guest with a short conversation before moving on to the next, his demeanor poised and respectful. Draig and Lilith followed Zain closely, their presence adding to the intrigue and splendor of the evening.
Soon, Duke Izark invited the eight Dukes to the main table, which had ten seats, with a slightly larger seat left empty for the Emperor. Behind each Duke stood their close aides, symbols of their power and status. Zain stood behind Izark, his posture straight and attentive. Most of the important figures of the Zinovia Empire were now gathered at this table, their collective aura formidable and imposing.
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"It's been so long since the Dukes of our empire have gathered like this." one noble whispered, his voice filled with awe.
"The aura of these people makes the atmosphere very intense here." another replied, his eyes wide with admiration.
"Every single one of them is a powerful individual, with few who could match their strength." a third added, the reverence in his voice unmistakable.
The presence of all nine Dukes of the Zinovia Empire created a tense atmosphere at the banquet, the weight of their combined influence palpable.
"I am greatly honored that the Dukes have joined my son's coming of age ceremony." Izark said as the host, his voice carrying the weight of his gratitude and pride.
"And mainly the Empire meeting." Duke Martin interjected, his tone laced with a hint of derision.
Everyone present was indeed there for the Empire meeting rather than Zain's coming-of-age ceremony, but no one dared to say it to Duke Izark's face. Duke Martin, however, was on bad terms with Duke Izark and didn't hesitate to poke him, his words a thinly veiled challenge.
Izark was triggered by this and was about to say something when he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was Zain, his presence a calming influence. Izark chose to ignore Duke Martin's comment and continued, his voice steady.
"Due to some important affairs, His Excellency Henry will be joining us a bit later. Please enjoy the banquet in the meantime."
The banquet hall erupted with chatter as guests quickly resumed their discussions. This gathering was a perfect opportunity for them to join new ventures, make allies, and trade, and no one wanted to miss this chance. The clinking of glasses and the murmur of voices filled the air, a symphony of ambition and camaraderie.
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While the banquet continued in Vermillion City, far away at the border of the Zinovia and Dranes Empires, deep in the shadowy embrace of the mountains, a solitary figure moved through a labyrinthine cave system. The darkness was oppressive, the air heavy with a sense of foreboding.
"The stench of Abyss is still present but faint and quickly dissipating. He probably came because of a void storm." the man observed, his voice echoing softly against the damp, stone walls. His eyes, sharp and perceptive, scanned the surroundings, noting every detail.
"The contact with the surroundings is minimal. It looks like he was in a hurry to leave. That's good. Everything should be fine." he muttered to himself, his tone measured and thoughtful.
As he examined the cave, a black-cloaked figure appeared behind him, moving with a silence that spoke of years of practiced stealth.
"Emperor Henry!" the new arrival exclaimed, his voice a mix of surprise and deference.
The man turned around to see the newcomer, a slight smile playing on his lips. "Old man Julius, why are you here?"
"Why ask when you know the answer? You and that old hag from the Dranes Empire are hiding things. Why did a demon king visit our plane?" Julius demanded, his aura bursting forth with an intensity that made the very air around him seem to crackle. He was one of the four Novas present on the Miraz plane and part of the Holy Moon Alliance, his presence commanding immediate respect and attention.
Henry returned to examine the surroundings as he answered, his tone calm and unhurried. "It's already been dealt with. It was Azazel. He was heavily injured after fighting another demon king and came here accidentally because of a void storm. He's already fled. I've taken the necessary precautions to check if he did anything."
"So, what did you find?" Julius asked, his voice tight with tension.
"Nothing. Azazel's aura is restricted to this cave. He formed a space pocket here. It seems he was still recovering. Manaira and I found out when he activated a formation. Even though we don't know what formation, it was likely a teleportation formation. So, there shouldn't be anything to worry about."
"Be extra careful. You know the coming years are very important for our Miraz plane." Julius warned, his voice carrying the weight of his concern before he disappeared from the cave as suddenly as he had appeared.
Emperor Henry sighed, muttered something and also vanished, leaving the cave behind in an eerie silence. The darkness closed in once more, the only sound of the distant drip of water echoing through the empty tunnels.
