Chapter 4: The Crimson Party (Part 1)

As they passed through the doors, the children discovered a hall far larger than the waiting room.

The ballroom was majestic, with enormous arched windows and black marble columns adorned with golden details. Elegant crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, illuminating the polished floor and the long crimson velvet curtains. At the center, a large chandelier bathed the hall in a soft light, creating an atmosphere that was as elegant as it was gloomy.

The hall was occupied not only by the servants of the various families but also by numerous monsters who had been invited to the celebration. Some belonged to species and cultures different from those of the principal families, something reflected in their clothing, customs, and appearances.

The children couldn't stop looking around curiously. There were so many different creatures that they hardly knew where to look.

Eventually, they reached an area of the hall where a long table had been prepared for the young guests. The zombies took care of placing the metal coffin to one side, while at the opposite end of the hall, the family leaders were already seated in their respective places.

At that moment, Lawrence and Annette appeared in front of the leaders' table. They both bowed their heads slightly in a gesture of respect and, after stepping back a few paces, clapped their hands softly. Although their applause was not particularly loud, it echoed throughout the hall.

“Dear comrades, butlers, and maids! It is time to serve the food to our masters,” they announced in unison.

“Yes, understood!” the servants replied.

Immediately, everyone sprang into action. Some left the hall, only to return shortly afterward carrying trays, while others pushed carts loaded with food. There was an enormous variety of dishes, and their aromas soon began to mingle throughout the room.

Among the servants attending to the children was Mila, who was carrying the plate intended for Lamia.

While the adults conversed at the main table, the youngsters began enjoying their own feasts. Lamia and Evangel were served roast chicken with mashed potatoes and vegetables, accompanied by small strawberry tartlets. Gleir received a Scottish-style meat pie; Tukax, a plate of koshari accompanied by an Egyptian sweet; Gala, German sausages with potatoes and apple pie; and William, a delicate French stew with profiteroles for dessert.

Everyone ate happily, although they couldn't help feeling a little uneasy about the metal coffin beside them.

Eventually, curiosity got the better of them, and they discreetly tried to find out what the zombies were eating.

That was when they spotted Anax enjoying a plate of jollof rice with roast chicken and fried plantains, accompanied by small sweet balls. Beside her, Etrix was savoring a spicy Louisiana-style jambalaya. However, what drew the most attention to their table was a small silver platter containing several brains, which he considered a true delicacy.

The children stared at the platter for a few seconds.

Then, almost simultaneously, they looked away.

Without saying a single word, they all reached the same conclusion: it was better to pretend they hadn't seen anything.

“Hey, do you think it's a boy or a girl?” Lamia asked, glancing sideways at the coffin.

“I hope it's a boy,” Tukax replied. “It's a little awkward being the only two boys at this table.”

“Eeeeh? Is the little pharaoh feeling uncomfortable around me? What an honor! Am I really that pretty?” Evangel teased, placing a hand on her chest in feigned surprise.

“Don't joke around. You're interesting by the standards of childhood, but I don't consider you pretty,” Tukax retorted.

Evangel's smile vanished.

“What did you say?”

“Besides, I have very little chance of becoming pharaoh. Even if my abilities are equal to or perhaps even better than those of some members of my family, my older siblings are already far ahead of me. If I want to claim that position someday, I'll have to earn merit and prove what I'm capable of.”

“I can understand that, to some extent,” William interjected. “I have an older sister who couldn't come because she's ill, but she's more skilled than I am. And then there are my other relatives. If I ever want to join the council, I'll have to prove my abilities and achieve results.”

Lamia listened attentively. After a few moments, however, she smiled naturally.

“I don't really understand those things. I just want to live happily with my family and friends.” She looked at the others with a hopeful expression. “Hey, would you like to be my friends?”

“I'm your cousin, so I'll have to be around you most of the time anyway,” Evangel replied with a shrug.

“I'd like that,” Gleir said.

“Why not? I'll give it a try,” Tukax agreed.

“Yes!” Gala exclaimed enthusiastically.

Everyone then turned their attention to William, who remained thoughtful.

“William?” Lamia called.

The boy raised his head and looked at her hesitantly.

“I'd like to, but in my family, we always have to stay alert. Honestly, there may come a day when I have to hunt or eliminate someone of your species. I don't think that would be pleasant for either of us.”

Lamia's smile slowly faded.

William noticed her reaction and, after a brief pause, added:

“But we can maintain a respectful relationship, as long as circumstances allow it.”

Lamia managed a small smile again. Although his words weren't exactly what she had hoped to hear, she decided to hold on to that possibility.

Perhaps, with time, things could be different.

After the meal, anticipation filled the hall as everyone waited for the events to come. Lawrence and Annette appeared once more and began to speak.

“Dear guests, we are about to begin the ceremony. We kindly ask everyone to pay attention and remain silent so that you may follow the proceedings.”

Their voices echoed throughout the hall, thanks to their Phantom Echo ability, which allowed them to speak from anywhere within the castle.

The family leaders stood before the main table. Each of them exuded an aura of grandeur that commanded respect, even among the most powerful guests.

The children stood up as well and gathered in front of their table, alongside their respective parents, to witness the ceremony.

Vladir and Selene stepped forward and positioned themselves before the other leaders. Behind them, Lawrence and Annette gently blew toward the assembled guests.

At first glance, nothing seemed to happen. However, when Vladir began to speak, his voice resonated throughout the hall without him needing to raise it. The ghosts had granted the leaders the Phantom Echo ability, a power that allowed them to project their voices throughout the entire venue. That night, they would use it solely for the ceremony.

“Dear guests, thank you for joining us at this very special event.”

Vladir paused briefly before continuing.

“This gathering was originally intended for the family leaders to discuss the affairs of Nosfera. However, on this occasion, we have decided to turn it into a celebration dedicated to the younger generations of our houses.”

Selene stepped forward.

“Although many of us enjoy extraordinarily long lives, there comes a time when we must step aside and allow a new generation to take our place.”

A few discreet chuckles arose among the guests, while others nodded in approval.

“We shall now hand the floor over to the castle guardians,” Selene continued. “They will announce the young members of each family and their respective leaders, one by one, to begin the rituals. We ask everyone to remain silent and pay close attention.”

Once she had finished her announcement, Selene returned to her seat beside Vladir.

Lawrence and Annette stepped forward until they stood before the guests.

“First, let us welcome the young William Von Harker!” they announced in unison.

Although no one openly showed it, the announcement stirred a mixture of emotions among those present: fear, anger, caution, and curiosity. All of them seemed focused on the boy who represented a human family in the midst of a gathering of monsters.

William took a deep breath and made his way to the center of the hall. His parents, Julius and Rose Von Harker, walked alongside him.

Once the three reached their destination, William knelt before his father.

Julius stepped forward and addressed the guests.

“As many of you know, we Von Harkers do not possess supernatural powers like yours. However, we have our knowledge, our skills, and our weapons. These are our strengths, and through them, we have learned to face creatures that many would consider impossible to defeat.”

Julius took his crossbow and raised it for everyone to see.

Some guests observed the weapon with surprise, while others regarded it with unease. It was not every day that a human stood before the leaders of monstrous families to demonstrate what he was capable of.

“I earned this crossbow through my own efforts. It is proof of my skill in wielding it and of my commitment to our family.”

He lowered the weapon slightly before continuing.

“However, after careful deliberation, the council decided that we would not be giving my son a weapon today. Instead, we will offer him something different: a goal he must strive to achieve.”

Julius gestured to his bodyguards. Two of them approached and handed him an elegant case.

The hunter accepted it and turned his attention to the young boy kneeling before him.

“William Von Harker.”

“Yes, Father.”

“Your skills show promise, but that does not guarantee you a place among the finest members of our family. You must forge your own name and prove yourself worthy of recognition.”

Julius opened the case.

Inside lay a pair of short silver swords. One was adorned with a ruby, while the other bore a sapphire. Their blades gleamed beneath the light of the chandeliers, and their hilts displayed the craftsmanship of the Von Harker family's artisans.

William gazed at the weapons, his eyes wide with admiration.

“These swords were forged by the artisans of our house. They were not made specifically for you, but for an exceptional Von Harker—someone capable of becoming a true source of pride for our family.”

Julius held his son's gaze.

“You now have two choices. You can follow your own path and discover what kind of hunter you will become, without taking on any additional expectations. Or you can set yourself the goal of proving that you are worthy of these swords.”

He paused briefly, allowing his words to sink in.

“But if you choose the second path, you must be prepared to endure much greater pressure. You will not only have to prove your worth to others, but you will also have to compete against your own relatives to claim them.”

Julius tilted the case slightly toward William.

“What is your decision?”

For a few moments, the boy could not tear his eyes away from the swords. They represented far more than two silver blades: they were a challenge, an opportunity to prove his talent, and a chance to earn a place among the finest hunters in his family.

William drew a breath and raised his head.

“I, William Von Harker, want to prove myself worthy of these swords. I accept this challenge, and I will do everything in my power to earn them.”

Julius and Rose exchanged proud smiles.

Then, Julius carefully removed the two swords from the case and offered them to his son.

“For this occasion, I will allow you to hold them. However, you will not wield them again until you have proven yourself worthy of them. Understood?”

“Yes, Father!”

William received the weapons with both hands. For a moment, he stood motionless, marveling at their weight and beauty. Then, he raised one of the swords in a gesture of triumph.

His parents began to applaud, followed by the family's bodyguards. Gradually, the other leaders joined in, until the sound of applause spread throughout the hall.

William smiled, unable to hide his excitement.

When the ovation ended, he returned the swords to his father. Julius placed them back in the case and handed it to one of his bodyguards.

The three Von Harkers then left the center of the hall and returned to their respective places, while the guests awaited the next announcement.

“And now, let us welcome the members of the Horde!” the guardians announced.

The zombie bodyguards approached the coffin and carefully lifted it. As they carried it to the center of the ballroom, Anax and Etrix stepped forward to receive it.

Once the bodyguards had placed the coffin on the platform, they withdrew, leaving the two leaders alone before the guests.

Anax surveyed the audience before speaking.

“Honored guests, tonight we shall witness the birth of our newest hope. As you know, we zombies cannot have children, and although I have yet to find a partner with whom to have an heir, I have decided to take a different path. Rather than fathering a descendant, I will create a new ‘brain’ for the Horde.”

Etrix approached the coffin and lifted the lid.

Inside lay a ten-year-old boy whose skin was the same shade as Etrix’s. His brown hair was tousled in a messy style, its peculiar sheen making it stand out beneath the ballroom lights. However, the most striking feature was his body: visible seams at his neck, wrists, and ankles gave the impression that his limbs could be detached.

Anax gazed at the little boy before continuing.

“The body before you once belonged to my former apprentice, Blets. Ten years ago, his life came to an end because of an unfortunate accident. However, before drawing his last breath, he asked me to use his body to give him a new purpose.”

She paused briefly and turned her gaze toward Etrix.

“Since that day, I have devoted myself to preparing the creation of a new being for our Horde. My ancestors began living alongside zombies to protect our community. From that union, Etrix was born, and ever since, he has served as one of its principal leaders alongside my family.”

Anax rested a hand on the edge of the coffin.

“But even someone like Etrix will have to rest someday. That is why, tonight, I will bring to life the one who will take his place and continue guiding our people.”

After those words, Anax began taking out the materials she had prepared for the ceremony. She asked Etrix to lift the coffin slightly while she placed a metal platform beneath it.

The first item she took out was a vial containing a peculiar-looking powder. With great care, she sprinkled it around the base, forming a complete circle. Then, she spread the remaining powder over the boy’s body, covering him with a thin layer.

Next, she picked up a container holding an unfamiliar ointment. She dipped her fingers into it and applied a small amount to the boy’s lips. Then, she began spreading it over his body, drawing markings and patterns similar to those on her own skin.

Finally, she took out another vial. Inside was a completely transparent liquid. It was impossible to see with the naked eye; only the sound it made as it moved inside the container revealed its presence.

Anax poured a small amount over the boy’s body, just enough for the liquid to come into contact with his skin.

When she finished, Etrix returned the coffin to its original position. However, instead of replacing the usual lid, he fitted it with a transparent glass cover, allowing everyone present to see the little boy inside.

Anax inspected the materials one last time, making sure everything was in place.

Then, she looked up at the guests.

“Now… I shall begin the ritual.”

Anax lit a small fire beneath the coffin. The flames began dancing under the metal platform as she closed her eyes and raised her hands.

Then, she began to chant:

“O forces of nature! I ask you to grant your energy to this lifeless body, so that new life may emerge from it.”

After speaking those words, she began singing in a language unfamiliar to most of the guests. Her voice followed a peculiar rhythm, as though every word were part of an ancient melody.

At first, nothing seemed to happen. However, the leaders and children began noticing small anomalies around the coffin.

The smoke from the fire did not disperse throughout the ballroom. Instead of rising freely, it remained within the circle of powder Anax had drawn on the floor, as though an invisible barrier prevented it from escaping.

Shortly afterward, vapor began forming inside the coffin. It slowly seeped through the seams of the structure as the container began to tremble.

Anax’s chanting grew increasingly intense and rapid.

Etrix positioned himself at the head of the coffin. In his hands, he held a container connected to the inside of the structure by a metal grille. On one side was a lever whose purpose remained a mystery to the guests.

The trembling grew stronger. Vapor began escaping under greater pressure, and the flames beneath the coffin flickered violently.

Anax drew a breath and raised her voice. Her final words echoed throughout the ballroom.

“Spirits of my ancestors, I implore you to grant this body a new identity so that it may walk upon this mortal world! Let its flesh experience the breeze of this world, and let its new soul discover the experiences of a lifetime!”

She opened her eyes and shouted with all her might:

“GIVE IT LIFE!”

At that instant, Etrix pulled the lever.

A blinding light flooded the ballroom, followed by the deafening crack of lightning. For a moment, everything was obscured by the brilliant flash, forcing the guests to shield their eyes.

The thunderous noise gradually faded. The light vanished, and the ballroom returned to its usual appearance.

The coffin’s glass lid had shattered into pieces, and the fire had been completely extinguished.

A mixture of smoke and vapor began escaping from inside the structure, slowly spreading across the floor.

No one dared utter a word.

The guests waited, holding their breath. Had the ritual worked, or had all their efforts been in vain?

Several seconds passed.

Nothing happened.

Just as some began to believe the ritual had failed, a small hand suddenly rose from inside the coffin.

A murmur of surprise swept through the ballroom.

The other hand appeared shortly afterward. Slowly, the little body began to rise until the boy was sitting upright, his upper body fully exposed.

Finally, he opened his eyes.

One was a brilliant blue, while the other was a dark shade of orange.

Anax and Etrix exchanged glances. Both smiled, unable to hide their excitement.

“HE’S ALIVE!” Etrix shouted at the top of his lungs.

The guests burst into applause. Some watched the scene in amazement, while others exchanged comments, impressed by what they had just witnessed.

Etrix leaned forward and carefully lifted the boy out of the coffin. Then, he placed him in front of Anax.

She crouched down to his level and looked at him with a smile.

“I am Anax, your creator. And as such, I shall give you a name that will accompany you for the rest of your new life.”

She paused briefly, as though making sure everyone could hear her next words.

“Your name shall be… Madas!”

The little boy remained motionless. His mismatched eyes darted from side to side as he seemed to struggle to understand everything happening around him.

He opened his mouth and, with some difficulty, spoke his first words:

“Ma… das?”

Anax smiled tenderly.

“Yes, little one. Your name is Madas.”

Etrix crouched beside her, and together they embraced the newly awakened boy. Madas seemed confused at first, but after studying them for a few moments, he imitated their gesture and hugged them back.

That small action sparked another wave of applause from the guests.

After the ceremony, the Horde’s representatives began gathering the materials used in the ritual. With Lawrence and Annette’s help, they cleared away the remains of the fire and carefully collected the shards of glass scattered across the floor.

Once everything had been cleared, Anax and Etrix returned to their place beside Madas.

The Horde’s presentation had come to an end, but the night was far from over. Once all the presentations were finished, the little boy would have the chance to meet the other children.

Lawrence and Annette returned to their positions before the guests to announce the next event of the evening.

“And now, it is the witches’ coven’s turn!” they proclaimed in unison.

Amanda rose from her seat and made her way to the center of the ballroom, followed by Abigail and Gregor. Gala, meanwhile, approached them in small steps until she had joined her family.

Once they were together, Amanda affectionately stroked her daughter’s head before turning toward the guests.

“It is a pleasure to stand before you this evening. Tonight, we will witness the awakening of our little Gala’s powers.”

Abigail took out several pieces of white chalk and, with Gregor’s help, began drawing a magic circle on the floor. Inside it, they traced a five-pointed star, with one point facing upward. The guests fell silent as they watched the preparations for the ceremony.

Once the drawing was complete, Amanda turned to her daughter.

“Gala, darling, please stand in the center of the star.”

“Yes, Mother.”

The girl obeyed and took her place, waiting for her mother to finish the preparations.

Amanda placed a crystal ball at one of the star’s points. At the remaining four, she arranged a candle, a bowl of water, a pot filled with soil, and a vial containing a small amount of vapor.

“These are the four fundamental elements,” Amanda explained, pointing to each object. “Through them, this ritual will reveal which forces you can form pacts with.”

She then stepped back and looked at Gala with an encouraging smile.

“Now, my daughter, channel your energy into the crystal ball. Let it reveal the pacts you can establish.”

“Yes, Mother.”

Gala extended her hand and placed her palm against the sphere’s surface. Instantly, it began to glow. The girl remained calm, concentrating on channeling her energy, while the guests watched intently.

Shortly afterward, the chalk lines began to emit a faint light as well.

The candle was the first to react.

Its flame flickered before changing color. The orange fire transformed into an intense blue, illuminating Gala’s face. The wax melted rapidly until the candle had been reduced to a small puddle, yet the flames continued to burn, suspended above the base with nothing left to fuel them.

A murmur of surprise swept through the ballroom.

“Blue fire!” one of the guests exclaimed.

Amanda smiled proudly, never taking her eyes off her daughter.

Then, the water inside the bowl began to churn. Its surface trembled so violently that some thought it would spill over the edge. However, the movement suddenly stopped.

A thin layer of ice appeared on the water and spread rapidly until it had frozen solid.

Several guests exchanged glances, convinced they were witnessing the awakening of a pact with ice.

But that was only the beginning.

The frozen block began to deform. The ice rose and twisted until it took the shape of a raven with its wings spread wide. The sculpture opened its beak, and a caw echoed through the ballroom, even though no living creature was present.

The guests stared in astonishment. Some rose from their seats to get a better look at the manifestation, while others began applauding at the unexpected result.

Gala, however, remained focused on the crystal ball.

There was still something left.

The vial containing the vapor opened on its own. A small cloud emerged and drifted toward the pot. At the same time, the soil shifted, and a withered-looking plant sprouted from it. Its drooping leaves and weak stem seemed barely capable of supporting themselves.

The vapor slowly enveloped it.

Before everyone’s eyes, the leaves regained their color, the stem straightened, and new flowers began to bloom among the branches. Within seconds, the plant had recovered its vitality, as though it had never been sick.

The ballroom fell silent with amazement.

Even Amanda briefly lost her usual composure. Abigail and Gregor exchanged surprised glances, unable to conceal their astonishment at what they had just witnessed.

Three manifestations. Three possible pacts.

Amanda looked at her daughter once more and asked, her face filled with pride:

“Gala, my daughter, do you accept these manifestations, and are you willing to establish your pacts with them?”

The girl gazed at the blue fire, the raven-shaped figure, and the newly restored plant. Then, she raised her head and answered with determination:

“I ACCEPT!”

The magic circle shone with far greater intensity. Light traveled along the star’s lines until it gathered beneath Gala’s hand. There, a small glowing circle appeared, identical to the one drawn on the floor.

The mark shone for a few moments before fading away, as though it had merged with her skin. At the same time, the magic circle went dark, and the crystal ball lost its glow.

The ceremony was complete.

Amanda stepped forward and addressed the guests.

“My daughter has established three pacts! Today, her journey as a witch begins. From this moment on, it will be up to her to prove herself worthy of these blessings and learn to master the powers she has received.”

She then turned toward Gala and knelt slightly to meet her at eye level.

“My daughter, are you willing to work hard and reach your full potential?”

Gala placed a hand over her chest and closed her eyes for a few moments. When she opened them again, her gaze reflected a determination unusual for a girl her age.

“I, Gala, not as the daughter of the witches’ leader, but as a witch in my own right, promise to prove myself worthy of my pacts and live up to the responsibilities they entail.”

For a moment, the ballroom remained silent. Then, the guests burst into applause.

Amanda embraced her daughter affectionately, proud to see her take that first step toward her future.

Finally, the witches returned to their seats alongside their families, while Gala took her place among the guests once more. Lawrence and Annette used their ghostly powers to clean the area, making the remaining wax, ice, and other objects used during the ceremony disappear.

The evening continued.

Lawrence and Annette returned to their positions before the guests to announce the next event of the evening.

“And now, let us welcome the royal family of the mummies!”

Menes and Tiye rose from their seats, accompanied only by their two bodyguards. Meanwhile, Tukax made his way to the center of the ballroom to join them.

Once they stood face-to-face, the prince knelt before his father and crossed his arms over his chest, forming an X.

“I pay my respects to my pharaoh.”

Menes smiled, pleased with his son’s manners, before turning toward the guests.

“Tonight, the youngest prince of my lineage will unleash his potential and demonstrate the power that flows through our family’s veins. The time has come.”

One of the bodyguards carried a box secured with several locks. His companion stepped forward and began opening them one by one until the lid could be lifted.

Inside lay a golden pendant shaped like a scarab. At the center of the ornament was a small keyhole.

Tiye took the relic in both hands and raised it for everyone to see.

“This is the Pendant of Ast, a sacred relic reserved exclusively for royalty. Its purpose is to unlock the abilities of those belonging to the royal bloodline. Tonight, we will use it to allow my son to demonstrate his true potential.” She then turned her gaze toward Tukax. “Are you ready, my son?”

“Yes, Mother!”

Tiye placed the pendant around her son’s neck. The moment the jewel touched his chest, it began to emit a faint golden glow.

The guests watched the phenomenon with curiosity, while Tukax remained still, waiting for the next step.

Menes took out a small golden key and held it between his fingers.

“Now, I shall unlock your abilities.”

He inserted the key into the scarab’s keyhole and turned it.

A faint click echoed through the ballroom.

At that instant, an invisible wave spread from the pendant, causing several guests to feel a strange vibration. The golden glow intensified until it completely enveloped Tukax.

However, the phenomenon lasted only a few seconds.

The scarab on the pendant moved its legs and came to life. To the astonishment of everyone present, it detached itself from the prince’s neck and returned to the box, dragging the chain along with it. The lid closed on its own, and all the locks snapped back into place.

Silence fell over the ballroom.

Several guests exchanged bewildered glances. If the ritual was over, how would the prince demonstrate the abilities he had just awakened?

Menes regarded his son with a calm expression.

“My son, do you need anything to demonstrate your new abilities?”

Tukax examined his hands and looked over his body, trying to find any visible changes. Then, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, concentrating on the new sensations he could feel.

Finally, he looked back at his father.

“May I borrow a chair?”

Menes raised his eyebrows slightly, surprised by the request, but soon smiled.

“Of course, my son. Don’t worry.”

Tukax turned his gaze toward an empty chair several meters away. He extended one hand and concentrated.

Suddenly, gleaming black bandages emerged from his shadow. They slid across the floor and stretched toward the chair, wrapping themselves around its legs. Then, they pulled it toward the prince, dragging it across the floor.

A murmur of astonishment swept through the ballroom.

Menes and Tiye exchanged glances filled with surprise and pride as they witnessed their son’s first ability. The guests, meanwhile, followed the movements of the strange bandages, unable to look away.

When the chair was within reach, Tukax placed one hand on its backrest.

Then something even more unexpected happened.

The wood began to crumble beneath his fingers. Little by little, the legs, backrest, and seat lost their shape until they became a pile of sand that fell to the floor.

Several guests stood open-mouthed.

Tiye beamed, unable to hide her excitement.

“Magnificent, my son! You have demonstrated two extraordinary abilities. Is there anything else you would like to show us?”

Tukax closed his eyes once more, concentrating on the sensations coursing through his body.

“I feel like there’s something else…” he replied after a few moments. “But I don’t think we have the necessary materials, and this isn’t the right time to reveal it.”

Tiye studied him carefully before nodding.

“I understand, my son.”

She then approached Menes and whispered something in his ear. The pharaoh listened attentively, and the two exchanged a few quiet words before turning their attention back to the guests.

Menes stepped forward and raised his head with the solemnity befitting his position.

“My son has awakened his abilities and demonstrated that our bloodline still holds tremendous potential. I hope you will all keep an eye on my children’s future achievements.”

The guests responded with applause, acknowledging the young prince’s presentation.

Shortly afterward, the royal family returned to their seats while the bodyguards took care of removing the box containing the relic.

Tukax, meanwhile, glanced at the pile of sand that had once been the chair. He extended a hand and, with a slight movement of his fingers, caused the grains to rise from the floor and begin swirling through the air.

The sand slowly drifted toward a container he carried with him, flowing inside without spilling a single grain.

When he was finished, Tukax closed the container and calmly returned to his seat.

Lawrence and Annette returned to their positions before the guests to announce the next presentation.

“And now, we move on to our penultimate presentation! Let us welcome the members of the werewolf pack!”

The reaction was immediate. Both the bodyguards and servants belonging to the pack began cheering, growling, and howling to encourage their representatives.

However, only three members made their way to the center of the ballroom: Warg, Ragnus, and Gleir.

Once they had gathered, Warg turned his attention to his youngest daughter. The little girl seemed somewhat nervous, so he decided to reassure her by lifting her into his arms and holding her close to his chest. Then, he handed her to Ragnus, who also embraced her affectionately.

When he felt the time was right, Warg turned toward the guests.

“Dear companions from all races, today my youngest daughter will discover her true nature. For those who may not know, tonight is a full moon in Nosfera, and thanks to its light, Gleir will begin a new stage of her life.”

He then looked down at his daughter and smiled at her.

“Are you ready, my little pup?”

“Yes, Daddy!” Gleir answered enthusiastically.

Ragnus gently set her down on the floor. Both parents took a few steps back to give her room.

The nervous expression had vanished from the little girl’s face. In its place stood a child determined to fulfill her pack’s tradition.

Warg raised his head and addressed the guardians overseeing the ceremony.

“I ask you to open a window to Nosfera so the moonlight can shine upon my daughter.”

Lawrence and Annette agreed to his request. They both raised their hands toward the ceiling, and suddenly, the space above them began to distort until it opened like a window into another place.

On the other side appeared the full moon, shining brightly in Nosfera’s night sky.

Its silvery light passed through the opening and illuminated the entire ballroom. The members of the pack closed their eyes for a moment, basking in the familiar light, while Gleir gazed in wonder at the enormous moon hanging above her.

Then, her body began to transform.

Grayish fur spread across her hands, and her nails lengthened into claws. A pair of wolf ears emerged from her hair, twitching as they picked up the sounds around the ballroom. Beneath her dress, a tail began to grow and sway from side to side.

But that was not all.

Her hair and the fur covering her body began to emit a faint glow. Little by little, their original gray color transformed into an intense midnight blue that stood out beneath the moonlight.

The guests watched the change with fascination.

When the transformation was complete, Gleir remained motionless for a few moments, as though she were discovering the sensations of her own body for the very first time.

Then, she raised her head and released her first howl.

“Awooooooooo!”

The sound echoed throughout the ballroom.

The members of the pack immediately responded, raising their voices to join her.

“Awooooooooo! Awooooooooo!”

The echo of their howls filled the room, turning the ceremony into a true celebration of their lineage.

But when Gleir took another deep breath, something changed.

Her second howl was far more powerful than the first.

“AWOOOOOOOO!”

The force of her voice made the ballroom tremble. Several guests covered their ears, startled by the sheer intensity of the sound, while some of the nearest windows began to crack.

The howl continued for several seconds before finally fading away.

An astonished silence took its place.

Warg was the first to react. He approached his daughter, leaned down slightly, and studied her with a mixture of curiosity and pride.

“How do you feel?”

Gleir looked up at him. Her eyes sparkled with happiness and excitement, and her tail wagged so energetically that she could barely keep still.

“I feel fierce!”

Warg burst out laughing.

“Ha, ha, ha! That’s my girl!” he exclaimed, affectionately ruffling her hair. “My little girl has officially become a true werewolf! And she still has a long way to go before becoming one of the most important members of my pack. Let none of you forget that!”

The leaders and guests burst into applause. The members of the pack, meanwhile, celebrated the little girl’s awakening with another round of howls, growls, and cheers.

Gleir smiled proudly as her parents congratulated her.

Shortly afterward, the members of the pack returned to their respective places. Lawrence and Annette closed the magical window, and the full moon disappeared from view, leaving the ceiling once again beneath the darkened sky.

However, Gleir had not completely returned to her previous appearance.

The fur had vanished from her hands, and her claws had reverted to ordinary nails, but her wolf ears and tail remained visible. Her hair retained its peculiar midnight-blue shade.

The little girl seemed delighted with her new appearance. She swished her tail from side to side and perked up her ears whenever someone looked at her, as though she wanted to show them off.

The other children watched her in amazement. Some of the younger ones approached curiously, while the girls exchanged excited glances, eager to discover what their own awakenings would be like.

Even so, they decided to wait until the presentations were over.

The ceremony was not over yet.

Lamía was impressed by all the presentations that had come before hers. Each one had stirred a mixture of admiration, excitement, and nervousness within her. She couldn’t stop thinking about William’s determination, Madas’s birth, Gala’s potential, Tukax’s nobility, and Gleir’s enthusiasm.

Now, at last, it was her turn.

She was eager to prove herself worthy of carrying the Dearg Due name. Beside her, Evangel shared her excitement, though her expression reflected pride more than nervousness.

“How are you feeling?” Lamía asked.

“What kind of question is that? I’m ready to prove that I’m the star of the night!” Evangel replied with a confident smile.

“How exciting! I’ll do my best, too.”

“Whatever abilities we obtain, I’ll prove that my family is the best of them all.”

“I just want to make my parents and siblings proud.”

The two cousins exchanged smiles. Then, they turned their attention back to the center of the ballroom, eagerly awaiting their call.

“And now, to conclude tonight’s presentations, let us welcome the representatives of the vampire kingdom! Please, step forward!”

The guests turned their attention toward the entrance. Valentin, Natalia, Lorfas, and Franchesca were the first to move, taking their places in the center of the ballroom to receive their daughters.

On the other side, Lamía and Evangel walked side by side. Their steps were graceful, and their posture reflected the nobility of their respective houses. Their presence did not go unnoticed, and several guests watched them with evident interest.

When they reached their parents, both girls bowed respectfully.

Valentin and Lorfas stepped forward to address those present.

“Dear guests and esteemed leaders of the other families, thank you for joining us on this very special occasion,” Lorfas began. “As the head of House Dracus, it is an honor to welcome you.”

“And as the head of House Dearg Due, I share that sentiment,” Valentin added. “Today, we take an important step toward a new era for the younger generations. We now have the opportunity to discover whether they are ready to live up to their future responsibilities.”

“The expectations they will have to meet are high,” Lorfas continued, “but we trust that, with their families’ guidance, they will grow into great figures. And this does not apply only to the young ones presented here today. Their siblings and other relatives are also part of the future we are building.”

“Those of us who currently hold these positions still have much work ahead of us before we can pass on our responsibilities,” Valentin said. “We hope that, when the time comes, those who take our places will be prepared to shoulder such a commitment.”

The two leaders exchanged a glance before addressing the guests once more.

“Without further ado, let us bring the presentations to a close and enjoy the rest of the evening.”

Valentin and Lorfas snapped their fingers.

Two butlers immediately approached. The first was Hanz, carrying a golden goblet on a tray and holding it with the utmost care. The second, a servant of House Dracus, carried a half-liter bottle whose contents could easily have been mistaken for wine at first glance.

When they reached the leaders, Hanz handed the goblet to Valentin, while the other butler placed the bottle in Lorfas’s hands.

The two men stood facing each other.

Lorfas removed the bottle’s stopper, and the moment he did, a familiar scent reached Lamía’s nose.

Blood.

She knew it well. That smell was common in her home. She had seen her relatives drink blood when they needed to draw upon their powers, as well as during social gatherings with other vampires. However, although she had been allowed to see it and smell it, she had never been permitted to taste it.

She had to wait until she turned ten.

And that day had finally arrived.

Lamía watched curiously as Lorfas poured the reddish liquid into the golden goblet. Beside her, Evangel observed the scene with the same fascination. They had both seen blood countless times, but now they were about to discover what it felt like to taste it for the first time.

Once the goblet was full, Valentin raised it for everyone to see.

“My daughter, Lamía, will be the first to taste it, followed by my niece, Evangel. They will both drink from the same goblet, sharing the blood as a symbol of the bond between them.”

Valentin approached his daughter and stopped in front of her.

“My daughter, are you ready to taste the source of our abilities and discover your potential?”

Lamía felt her nerves beginning to get the better of her. For a moment, she thought of all the young people who had stood in that very spot before her. Each had faced their moment with determination, and she didn’t want to be any different.

She took a deep breath and looked up at her father.

“I’m ready, Father.”

Valentin smiled proudly and handed her the goblet.

Lamía received it with both hands. The gold gleamed beneath the ballroom lights, and the scent of blood grew stronger as she brought the vessel closer to her lips.

She was about to taste something she had waited years for.

She could never have imagined that this simple gesture would mark the beginning of a series of events that would change her life forever.

Events that, in time, would be remembered as…

“The Worst Day of Her Life.”

End of Chapter.