As the grand hall fell into silence, the clock struck nine. A soft chime echoed across the palace, marking the beginning of the final ceremony of the night.
The towering double doors at the far end of the hall opened with regal elegance, and the royal announcer's voice rang out with authority:
"Presenting—His Majesty, Emperor Charles de Angelis!"
All nobles rose from their seats as the Emperor strode forward, his golden cape trailing behind him, embroidered with the imperial sigil of the twin dragons. His presence was overwhelming—a man forged in war and crowned in peace.
Beside him walked his daughter—Princess Charlotte de Angelis. Her blonde hair was tied elegantly, her eyes—voids of swirling mystery—reflected the chandeliers' glint. She wore a majestic black gown with intricate silver embroidery, fitting for the moment she would become Crown Princess.
The emperor turned to her, his voice firm and solemn, yet warm.
"Charlotte. My daughter. Today, you cross the final bridge between youth and destiny. As your father, I see the girl you once were. As your emperor, I see the leader you are meant to become."
He then gently placed the small golden crown upon her head. It shimmered like captured starlight—adorned with a single moonstone at its center, and etched with protective runes only known to the royal family.
Applause thundered through the hall.
But before the crowd could settle, another announcement followed:
"Presenting—Her Majesty, Empress Louise de Angelis!"
The Empress glided across the hall, holding something gleaming—an imperial blade.
Her expression was unreadable as she addressed Charlotte with a tone that left the hall in unease.
"This sword has passed through generations. A symbol not just of power... but of burden. Wield it carefully, Charlotte. For those who shine brightest often cast the longest shadows."
Charlotte tilted her head in confusion, but stepped forward regardless.
Noah, seated at his table beside Olivia and the girls, narrowed his eyes.
That's when it happened.
[ALERT: Emergency System Trigger – UNKNOWN – RED LEVEL THREAT]
His system screen burst open in a blood-red glow. Noah blinked, startled. "What—"
Before he could speak, the unthinkable occurred.
The Empress lunged.
The sword pierced Charlotte's chest.
Silence.
Then screams.
Then—BOOM!—a massive explosion tore through the northern wing of the palace. Glass shattered. Lights flickered. Another explosion followed, then another—encircling the palace like a trap laid long ago.
Flames danced outside the windows. Panic erupted.
Charlotte's body slumped forward, the silver embroidery of her gown stained crimson.
Her crown hit the marble with a sharp, final chime.
Noah stood up so fast his chair flew back.
His eyes narrowed.
His system rang again.
[New Quest: Protect the Empire]
—To be continued..