Diabolis' hand shook as he tried to pour himself a glass of water. Drops of the liquid missed the rim and splashed over his sleeve, dripping onto the counter. His stomach flipped and flopped, sweat beaded his forehead as his fingers trembled. His legs were like jello, and he felt he could hardly hold himself upright. Sighing heavily, he plopped down on a counter stool, water still in hand. His head hung over as he tried to take steady breathes. He could hear the distant chimes of the castle bell loudly echoing through Reges. It was time, his heart fluttered. He tried to stand, but the moment he moved he felt like vomiting.
“I can't do this!” He whispered to himself. Suddenly the kitchen door flung open, and Diabolis jumped, spinning around to see who had found him.
“Ah, there you are.” Bialus smiled from the doorway. Diabolis felt a wave of relief wash over him.
“Oh Bialus, it's only you.” He chuckled, trying to hide his nervousness. Bialus strode over to him, tilting his head slightly. He was dressed in a silk white cape with red velvet trim. His dreads were done up behind him in a decorative bun, adorned with a gold brace. His scars had been covered with makeup and he looked almost completely different.
“You look...nice.” Diabolis complimented him.
“You hesitated, you hate it don't you?” Bialus frowned, leaning on the counter. He grabbed a glass and poured himself a cup of water as well.
“No...I'm just not used to seeing you look so clean or dressed up, it's just strange is all. You don't look bad, but it did take me a moment to recognize you.” Diabolis explained.
“Cynthia grabbed me about an hour ago when she saw me. Insisted I dress up for the coronation. I was just going to go looking like I usually do and hide out in the corner. But...she said that I should sit up front with Toby to support you. And I didn't want to embarrass you, so I let her dress me up.” Bialus sighed, taking a sip of his water.
“Thanks.” Diabolis smiled. He himself was dressed in traditional Domun royalty wear. He had a long, fur trimmed cloak. Golden sashes were tied around his waist, red rubies sewed to them. Glittering braces adorned his biceps, and his hair was gelled back to reveal his crimson eyes.
“Bialus...” Diabolis began, “I...I can't do this!” He slammed his fist against the counter, spilling some of his water.
“I know...but you have to. Do you not want to be king?” Bialus cast a concerned look to his friend.
“No I do, but not now. I don't think...I can. I'm not ready. Bialus I'm...scared.” sweat streaked down his brow but Bialus wiped it away.[
“Rightfully so, this is probably one of the scariest things you'll ever have to do. It'll change your life forever, you'll have the power to pass any law, to start any war and the whole country will bow at your every command. They'll judge every decision you make, good or bad, and no matter what you do some of the people will never like you. Heck, some might even try to kill you. This is the hardest most scariest job I can think of.” He paused, placing both his hands on Diabolis' shoulders. “But Diabolis, you are the strongest, most diligent person I have ever met. If anyone can do this job, and at the ripe age of eighteen, it's you. I know you're scared about making wrong choices, but your heart is good and you care about your country and I know you will always do everything you can for them. There is no one more suited for the job than you. And sure it may change your life, but that isn't a bad thing. You still got me, and Hannah and Toby and even Cynthia. You will meet others to help you and you will never be alone.”
Diabolis was silent, looking into Bialus' golden eyes with a sense of awe. He knew Bialus could be insightful and wise beyond his years at times, but he was deeply moved. He stood up, throwing his arms around his friends shoulders and hugging him.
“Thank you Bialus.” He smiled.
“Are you ready now?” Bialus asked, earning a nod from the prince. The two took deep breathes and walked, side by side out of the kitchen and down the castle halls. Diabolis felt like an eternity passed before they saw Cynthia pacing outside the entrance to the throne room. He could hear her gasp when she turned and saw them coming down the hall.
“Oh! Your highness! Are you ready? It is time!” Cynthia rushed up to him, looking him over. “Bialus, hurry and sneak in, go sit beside Lady Hannah Hollow.” She shewed him away. Bialus gave Diabolis a thumbs up before sneaking through the door and into the throne room. Cynthia grabbed Diabolis' cheeks, turning his head to look at her.
“You've got this, ok? Just walk through the room, keep your eyes on the throne, keep your head high. We've practiced this a thousand times, don't be nervous. If you forget anything at all, just raise your brows to the official, he'll walk you through it.” She was silent, taking in all his features. Then she pulled his head down, planting a gentle kiss on his forehead.
“Your parents would be so proud of you.” She smiled, wiping a tear from her eyes. Diabolis pulled her into a quick hug. He was ever grateful to the older woman. She had always been there for him, from birth to now. Diabolis reluctantly let her go before turning to the door. Cynthia stepped up, and opened it for him.
Diabolis' heart was pounding so hard, it was practically all her could hear. He felts like his powers were suddenly uncontrollable. His ruby eyes shined, revealing all the souls in the throne room, there were thousands of people, watching, waiting for him. He gave a quick sigh, pulling his powers into check. Before him were two double doors, two castle guards adorned in traditional armor opened the doors wide, it was time. Diabolis remembered Cynthia's words, he puffed out his chest and held his head high. The room was long and crammed with Ladies, Lords, Dukes, Mayors, Soldiers and anyone of any importance. At the end of the room was his fathers throne, before it was the official who would be performing the coronation. Diabolis cast a quick glance up to the balcony that wrapped around the room. It too was packed with Domuns all peering over the edge as he slowly walked towards the throne.
Diabolis was so nervous, he didn't hear the traditional coronation trumpets being played. He forgot about the officials marching in behind him, and the soldiers carrying the Domun and Reges flags. He tuned it all out, and kept his eyes on the throne. Once he got to the end of the room, he kneeled on the stairs, his head bowing down.
The official stepped up, and removed his fur trimmed cloak. He then took his prince crown from his head, and placed it, along with the cloak, in a silver chest. The official pulled a crystal flask from his traditional robes, its contents gold in color. He uncorked the top and very carefully let a few drops fall onto Diabolis' head.
Diabolis flenched as the cold drops ran through his hair then trickled down the back of his neck. Suddenly, the trumpets sounded again, and four officials carried in a golden chest, held by two golden rods. It was placed beside the silver one, and opened. The man in charge of the coronation retrieved an equally golden cloak, this one lined with jewels that dangled from tassels. Diabolis recognized it to be his fathers cloak, and his heart rose in his chest. The official swung the cloak around Diabolis and hooked it over his shoulders. It was much heavier than his older cloak and Diabolis couldn't help but feel strange wearing it.
Again the trumpets sounded and two hooded figures appeared from behind the throne. They both wielded swords. One was a crimson red, the other, sapphire blue. The one with the blue sword was adorned with white and gold cloaks. The other was dressed head to two in black and gold. They approached Diabolis from either side and raised their swords high. The official grabbed the ancient book of Domun laws and began to read from it while he placed his hand on Diabolis' head.
“Today, the great land of the Domuns will be blessed with a new king. With this new reign we pass the throne over to Diabolis Z Reges, son of Avarice Z Reges. He will reign over this land with a firm fist and kind heart. He will not waver when faced with great tribulations and will lead our country to further glory. We give him our blessing,” the two cloaked figures lowered their swords, resting them on either of Diabolis' shoulders. Then the swords were raised and they walked back behind the throne. The official continued,
“May your reign be long and prosperous, and your path clear and straight.” The official turned back to the golden chest, placing the book down. He retrieved a large golden crown, lined with ruby red jewels.
“With this crown upon your head, I proclaim thee, King Diabolis Z Reges, of Domun country.” Cheers rang up as the crown was placed on Diabolis' pale mop of hair. He stood to his feet, turning to face the throne room filled with people. They all stood, waving and cheering and throwing red flowers in the air. All at once an orange flame burst through the open window above the throne. It stretched into the form of an eagle, its wings spread wide. It gave a mighty call before swooping down and perching itself on Diabolis' shoulder. The Pheonix, which Diabolis recognized to be his fathers, had died, the very day his father had and remained a pile of ash over his fathers grave. It was the Domun family phoenix, reborn with every new reign.
The people cheered louder and the trumpets sounded once the Phoenix had landed on his shoulder proving that he was, indeed, their new king.
Diabolis couldn't help but cast a quick glance over to the front row where his brother and friends sat. Bialus was throwing red roses in the air like a mad man, and Hannah blew him a kiss. He looked over to Toby, who was sitting and clapping, he was smiling, but Diabolis could tell it was genuine. For a moment they met each others gaze and Diabolis felt the sudden urge to run over to him and pull him out of his chair and let him walk with him out of the throne room. However he decided against it and simply smiled kindly at his little brother.
Although the ceremony was complete, Diabolis knew there was more he still had to do. He walked, head held high back through the throne room and out into the hall. Cynthia was standing there, waiting for him. Tears streaked down her face when she saw him coming, the crown on his head and Phoenix on his shoulder. She laughed and smiled, tossing a red tulip at him.
“Your highness.” She bowed, the brightest smile adorning her cheeks. She then stood and looped her arm with his, guiding him down the hall now lined with soldiers. The two walked, arm in arm up the staircase to the third floor. There soldiers stood guarding the massive balcony that overlooked the front of the castle. Diabolis could hear the murmur and hum of a large crowd gathered out front. Excited, he stepped out onto the balcony and peered over.
“There he is!” Someone shouted and pointed up. The crowd of citizens immediately irrupted into chants and cheers. More red and orange flowers were tossed in the air. Cynthia gave a wave of her hand, and servants atop the castle released a shower of rose petals out over the crowd. Diabolis stood, stunned at how many people were gathered to see him. They filled up the front courtyard and spilled out the gates and into the streets outside the castle grounds. He could see the crowd for miles through Reges. Children and teens were sitting all along the brick castle wall, waving small Domun flags. Diabolis suddenly realized how supported he was, he hadn't known how many Domuns had been anticipating this day with great excitement.
He waved and smiled, practically leaning out of the balcony. However, he wasn't up there long before Cynthia came and grabbed his arm again.
“I know you are enjoying yourself, but you must go to the Banquet Hall. There is going to be a party in your honor, remember?” Cynthia whispered to him. Diabolis' eyes glistened with excitement.
“I had completely forgotten! What type of party is it?” He whispered back down to her.
“Well, first we are going to the Banquet hall to dine with the Domun Lords, Mayors, Militant leaders, Officials, Judges and Ladies and Dukes. Then afterwards, everyone who was in the throne room, and a few others will be attending a grand ball. There will be music, and dancing, and entertainment from the farthest corners of Domun country. Afterwards the servants will serve desserts to everyone.” Cynthia explained.
“Sounds like a long day.” Diabolis teased.
“Yes, we must have a large celebration, because today is a wondrous day.” Cynthia winked at him.
“I am looking forward to it.”
At the banquet, Diabolis wasn't pleased when he learned that neither Bialus or Hannah Hollow would be joining him. He was placed at the end of the table, wedged between the head of officials, who had preformed the ceremony, and the eldest Domun Lord, who was stuck in the politics of old. Diabolis tried to come across as completely overtaken with how good the food was to talk, but they hardly gave him a moments peace. Everyone at the dinner table had questions for him, and some of the elder people offered advice that was never wanted. Diabolis knew it would be wise to listen to what they had to say, and he did for the most part, but he also couldn't help but feel bored with them all. However, things did get rather interesting, when one of the officials poked a jab at a Domun Lord.
“Well, I guess it wont be long before you are picking your own Domun Lords. A year to be exact.” One of the officials chimed, casting a quick glance toward a Domun Lord he wasn't particularly fond of.
“Why would I need to do that? We already have four Domun Lords.” Diabolis had missed the hateful looks between the two and continued with his meal.
“Yes that is true, but no one ever said you had to keep any of them. Now that you are in power, you can place whoever you chose as the new Domun Lords, well...in a year that is.” The official continued.
“I wouldn't be so smug if I was you,” the oldest Domun Lord warned, “you're due for a re-instatement in just a few months. What makes you think you have the peoples votes?” He raised his brow to the Official.
“I have their votes because I have always represented them in official matters. I want what they want, therefore I think our new king would be wise if he listened to what I had to say.” the official smiled, popping food in his mouth. The Domun Lord rolled his eyes, leaning closer to Diabolis.
“I'm sure you know this already your highness, but most of the officials like to talk big, makes up for the lack of work they actually do. Be careful though, they are all in their positions because they are wise and cunning. Don't let them pull the wool over your eyes. They may claim to represent the people, but they mainly represent themselves. Just remember, they don't make the decisions, you do.” He gave a sly smile, winking at the new king. Diabolis couldn't help but chuckle, perhaps listening to their antics wasn't all that boring.
After the banquet came to an end, Cynthia came to escort Diabolis to his chambers where he was able to refresh.
“Finally, I can get out of this hot cloak.” Diabolis sighed, moving to take off the kings robes.
“No, your majesty, you must keep these on until the ball is completely over. It is traditional.” Cynthia stopped him.
“Is it traditional for the king to sweat like a dog during the celebration in his honor?” Diabolis teased.
“Why yes of course.” Cynthia joked back, “In all seriousness though, you must keep these on. The guests will be looking forward to seeing you, their new king. You wouldn't want to ruin the occasion by showing up in some common get up. Which reminds me, we will have to change out your formal closet, you are no longer a little prince.” She winked, making her way for the door. “The ball will begin in just a few moments, I expect you to be on your throne while they announce the guests. After the clock strikes seven, you may leave the throne and begin to mingle and enjoy the party. And do try to fit in a dance or two, it would make the young ladies' day.” Cynthia instructed him before leaving his chambers for good.
At the ball Diabolis found himself sitting patiently on his throne, his Phoenix perched on the edge. A soldier stood across the room by the massive double doors, announcing the visitors as they flooded into the room. Many of the guests approached the bottom of the throne and gave Diabolis a bow to show respect, some even congratulated him. He was happy when the castle bell chimed seven and he was able to leave the chair. His Phoenix too left the throne, he however didn't stay to enjoy the ball, and flew out the window instead. Diabolis wondered what he was supposed to do with the bird, was it his pet? He had only ever seen the Phoenix with his father a few times, and his late dad never talked about it. He decided that was something he would worry about later, and turned his attention to the party at hand.
He was surprised how people seemed to flock around him the moment he stepped off of his throne. First he was greeted by officials and elder Dukes, then came the women. First there were a few, casually following him from a distance. Then all at once dozens of them appeared out of nowhere and flocked around him in a wide circle. However, only a few of them had the nerves to speak with him.
“Your majesty,” one young lady bowed to him. She offered her hand and Diabolis took it, he brought it close to his lips, but did not kiss it.
“Madam.” He replied.
“I'm sure you may have heard of me before. My father is one of your officials. I am Lilith.” She introduced herself. At the introduction, several of the other girls backed off, dispersing and breaking the circle.
“A pleasure to meet you.” Diabolis nodded. He didn't want to come across as rude to any of the guests, but he wasn't too keen on speaking with all of them.
“If you find you need a dance partner later tonight, please remember me.” She smiled kindly, flicking her long locks behind her. She had brilliant gold hair and bright blue piercing eyes. She moved around the ball room like a leaf gently floating on a breeze. Diabolis was for a moment, captivated by her, but their conversation was interrupted by Hannah Hollow.
“Diabolis, I have been looking for you everywhere.” Hannah cooed, placing her hand on Diabolis' shoulder. She ignored Lilith, turning her back to her so fast that her midnight skirts whipped against Lilith's own dress.
“Excuse me, I'm not sure if you saw, but I was talking with the King.” Lilith coughed, tapping Hannah's shoulder. Hannah turned, looking her up and down for a moment.
“I'm sorry, I didn't see you there. What is your name?” Hannah smirked.
“I am Lilith, daughter of an official, who might you be?” Lilith placed her hands on her hips. Diabolis wasn't sure what was happening, but he could feel the tension in the air and he suddenly didn't want to speak with either Hannah or Lilith.
“I am Hannah Hollow, daughter of Duke Emerson, and Diabolis' childhood friend.” Hannah scoffed.
“Oh yes, I remember you. You're the girl who was betrothed to the King, but he broke that off with you the moment he had the chance.” Lilith sneered, glaring down at Hannah as if she had dealt some fatal blow to her enemy. Hannah gasped, surprised by her rudeness. She turned to Diabolis for support but was shocked to see that he had walked off, leaving the two girls to bicker between themselves.
Diabolis had spotted Bialus and his brother across the room near a table of drinks. He rushed over there quick as he could, doing his best to avoid anymore conversations with strangers.
“Bialus,” Diabolis smiled as he approached him and Toby. Bialus turned, a bright grin on his face, Toby frowned when he saw Diabolis coming, he made to leave but Bialus grabbed him.
“You did great Diabolis. You're king now! See I knew you could do it!” Bialus congratulated him. He looked at Toby who he had trapped under his arm.
“Wasn't he great Toby?” He gave him a small shake, hoping he would encourage his older brother.
“Yeah, it was good. You did great kneeling there and walking and stuff.” Toby grumbled, being his usual smart self. Bialus rolled his eyes and reluctantly released Toby. Toby grunted, dusting off his suit and turned to leave.
“Wait, Toby, I wanted to talk with you.” Diabolis called, grabbing his sleeve. Toby halted, fighting the urge to smack his brothers hand away, however, he didn't want to embarrass himself in front of the whole party.
“W-what is it?” Toby murmured, turning to meet his brothers gaze.
“I wanted to thank you for coming to the coronation. I know you didn't have to go, but I appreciate you showing up.” Diabolis smiled.
“Well, Cynthia made me.” Toby grumbled, looking at his shoes.
“You and me both know Cynthia can't make you do anything, she wishes she could.” Bialus added, earning a chuckle from Diabolis.
“Toby, will you stay with us tonight. I would like to have you with me.” Diabolis asked. Toby looked at him wide eyed, surprised for a moment. He quickly buried his emotions deep down and looked at his shoes instead.
“Well...I don't want to miss the whole party just because you want me to follow you around all night.” Toby grumbled.
“No, you can go whenever you want, I just...want us to be able to enjoy some of the party together. I know we haven't done anything together in years, and i'm sorry for that.” Diabolis admitted, speaking from his heart. Toby winced, he hadn't expected an apology from his brother, especially during the ball.
“W-whatever. I'll stick around for a bit, but only because there's no one else to hang out with.” Toby snorted, grinding his teeth.
“Just like old times!” Bialus grinned, slapping both of the brothers on the back.
Hannah frowned, watching as Diabolis mingled with his brother and Bialus, how dare he leave her to bicker with this girl all on her own. Hannah turned slightly, looking over her shoulder at Lilith who was also searching the room to see where Diabolis had gone.
“I know you are up to no good. I'm guessing your father is the official representing the voice of the populace. He doesn't have such a great reputation amongst us nobility.” Hannah snorted, earning a sharp glare from Lilith.
“My fathers reputation can't stop me from making my life better. Everyone knows there is no Queen and no rumor of a love interest. You blew your chance, so don't get mad when I take mine. Also, don't expect an invite to the royal wedding.” Lilith warned, and with that she twirled her skirts and marched off to plan her next move.
Furious, Hannah marched toward Diabolis, hoping to inform him that Lilith was merely a snake in the grass. Just before she could make it to the beverage table, Diabolis was approached by three officials, one of which was Lliliths' father. They had Diabolis walk with them to the far side of the room, and Hannah knew it wasn't her place to interrupt them. Instead she settled to complain to Bialus.
“Ugh, did you see that?” Hannah hissed, grabbing a drink off the table.
“See what?” Bialus questioned, looking about the massive ball room for something out of the ordinary. Toby also looked confused, but he didn't comment and pretended not to be listening as he sipped at his drink.
“That...girl Lilith.” Hannah growled.
“I don't know anyone named Lilith. Why? Did some girl piss you off?” Bialus chuckled.
“Yes, she is bad news. I saw her talking with Diabolis so I went up to see who she was. She was completely rude to me. After Diabolis walked off she said she was trying to become Queen. She didn't even try to hide it, she just flat out told me!” Hannah slammed her fist on the table, causing the drinks to shake.
“Wow, she has some guts. How was she rude exactly?” Bialus was now scanning the room, looking for her, even though he had never seen her in his life.
“She made fun of me because Diabolis broke the betrothal off. Also, her father is the official representing the voice of the Domun people.” Hannah tilted her cup back, downing the last of her drink.
“Is that her?” Bialus pointed off towards one of the pillars all the away across the room. Hannah looked, gasping when she saw her approach Diabolis and the officials. The other officials had gone and Diabolis was left talking with just Lilith's father, making it easy for her to approach him. There was no way they hadn't planned it.
“Look, her father took him away from us, knowing we wouldn't be stupid enough to interrupt a conversation between an official and the king. But look! She's walking right up, because he's her father!” Hannah stomped her foot, furious.
“You really think she is bad news?” Bialus watched as Lilith waved her father off, looped arms with Diabolis and began to walk with him around the ball room.
“Yes! She is forcing him to notice her, and she literally said that she wanted to be Queen. She must think I'm stupid.” Hannah fussed, “If they get too friendly tonight, then he might invite her over and then they'll be friends and he'll be falling right into her trap! We can't let this happen, he has too much to worry about.” Hannah growled. Toby, who had been watching the girl walk around with his brother, suddenly slipped off into the crowd, unnoticed by Hannah and Bialus.
“How are we going to stop them from being friends? I don't think she would just leave if we walked up to him.” Bialus thought.
“No...but if we can get Diabolis to step away from her for just a moment, I can spill wine on her dress. She wont want Diabolis to see her like that and more than likely she'll go off to change. Then all we have to do is keep him occupied the rest of the night.” Hannah thought aloud.
“How are we going to do that?” Bialus questioned.
“When Diabolis gets called away by someone else, like a duke or a Domun Lord, then we'll spill the drink on her, but we've got to keep him occupied so that when she comes back, she can't talk with him.” Hannah was quiet, ideas running through her head. Suddenly she had a brilliant thought and turned to Bialus, grabbing his shoulders while a sly grin spread over her cheeks.
Meanwhile, Diabolis and Lilith strolled through the ball room, making their way over for some drinks.
“Have you ever been to Sapphire Sea Bay?” Lilith questioned him. Diabolis had been a little surprised by her boldness to approach him, but after a while he grew to appreciate the company.
“No, can't say I have.” He admitted.
“It's in Erip.” She explained, “It's the most beautiful beach there. The waters are so clear. You should visit some time. It's definitely a nice place to just...get away.” She waved her arm in the air gingerly. Before they could reach the drink table, the eldest Domun Lord approached Diabolis.
“Excuse me your highness,” he bowed, “I have someone here I would like you to meet, if you could spare a moment.” He asked. Diabolis nodded, then patted Lilith's hand,
“I'll be back.” he assured her, then walked off with the Domun Lord, leaving Lilith alone by a pillar. Lilith watched as Diabolis walked off, a frown rested on her face and she furrowed her brows, growing impatient. Suddenly she could feel something cold on her stomach and immediately looked down to see a massive red wine stain dripping down her dress.
“Ooops,” Hannah gasped, seemingly appearing out of nowhere beside Lilith. “Oh how clumsy of me! I tripped on the him of my dress.” She pretended to be ditzy all of a sudden and retrieved a handkerchief from her pocket. “Let me just clean that off.”
“No don't you'll just...spread it everywhere! Leave me alone you idiot, you've ruined my dress! Now i'll have to go change!” She barked loudly, turning a few heads. Hannah smiled as Lilith stormed off, leaving the ballroom.
“Phase one, complete.” She whispered to herself. It wasn't long before Diabolis returned looking for Lilith.
“Hannah, did you see where Lilith went?” He asked, spying her leaning against the same pillar.
“Yeah, I watched her walk off with some duke, I was going to follow them but I lost them in the crowd.” She shrugged. Diabolis looked stunned, but he wasn't going to let that ruin his night.
“Well, guess I am free to talk with you now.” He smiled, leaning on the pillar beside her. Before he could say another word, trumpets sounded and everyone cleared from the center of the room. The live orchestra that had been patiently sitting on the balcony, all at once began to play. Not but seconds after the music started and couples were out dancing together on the floor. They spun and dipped and twirled around each other.
Hannah smiled, watching as Cynthia walked towards them through the crowd. She was dragging a young girl with her.
“Diabolis,” Hannah tapped his shoulder, drawing his attention away from the dancers. “I would like you to meet a friend of mine, her name is Tonya.” Hannah grabbed the girls gloved wrist and yanked her closer to Diabolis. Diabolis was taken back by the amount of red she was wearing. Her hair was red as a rose, done up in curls and braids. She wore a lacy crimson dress with matching gloves, her jewelry was gold, dotted with little rubies, but her eyes were as bright and golden as sun rays. She gave a shy smile and bowed, dipping her head gracefully.
Diabolis couldn't take his eyes off of her, something about her seemed so familiar.
“You two should dance. The king must dance with somebody.” Hannah shrugged, giving them both a push in the direction of the dance floor. Tonya squeaked in surprise, casting a quick glare back to Hannah.
“Well, would you take this dance?” Diabolis chuckled, offering his hand to her. Tonya seemed hesitant, but she eventually nodded and placed her hand in his. Diabolis pulled her close and led her out onto the floor. They spun into place beside the others, earning “oos” and “awes” from the people watching. The king had stepped onto the dance floor and everyone was gathered to watch.
“Who is the red lady?” they whispered amongst themselves, wondering where the crimson girl had come from. As Diabolis pressed his hand against Tonya's back, he couldn't help but feel like there was something strange about her. He stared at her features, unsure why he thought she seemed so familiar, perhaps he had met her before. Tonya smiled up at him, snickering to herself. The song was drawing to an end, and Diabolis leaned her into a dip.
“What's so funny?” Diabolis smiled, wondering why she was giggling and staring at him.
“Oh, nothing.” She raised her eyebrow at him as he leaned her farther into a dip. Diabolis suddenly stopped, holding her just inches off the ground. His eyes widened, he recognized her voice.
“B-bialus!” He gasped, blushing furiously.
“Shh-shhh,” Bialus snorted, trying not to burst into laughter, “You'll ruin the fun, just go with it. We were having such a good time.” He joked. Diabolis pulled him up, as the song ended.
“What on Mundus Bialus,” Diabolis couldn't help but chuckle, “You look like a real woman, you had me fooled.” He saw Hannah from the corner of his eye, she was laughing while watching them, Lilith was still gone. The next song started up and Diabolis and Bialus looked at each other.
“I know you were enjoying yourself, come on, everyone wants to see the king dance with the mysterious red lady.” Bialus joked and grabbed his shoulder and arm. “It's my turn to lead though.” Bialus snorted. Diabolis smiled, this was indeed the most interesting ball he had ever attended.
Diabolis and the crimson woman danced every single dance until the band retired and the ball came to an end. Slowly the guests began to flood out of the castle and to their carriages, all congratulating their new king. Bialus had immediately rushed to change once the dancing was over, meeting Hannah in the gardens as soon as he was back in his normal get up.
“I'd say that was a success, that Lilith girl was too intimidated by the beautiful red lady to approach Diabolis.” Bialus puffed out his chest with pride.
“Actually,” Hannah chuckled, “she never came back. I spilled the wine on her and she said she was going to go change, but she never returned to the ball.” Hannah shrugged.
“What? Why not? Where did she go? Are you telling me I dressed up like that for nothing?” Bialus gasped. They began to stroll through the garden, admiring its beauty in the moonlight.
“Honestly I don't care where she went or what happened, I just hope we never see her again.” Hannah snorted.
“About that.” Bialus stopped Hannah, pulling her behind a shrub. “Shhh,” he held his finger over his lips, then pointed across the garden fountain to a cherry tree just by the garden wall. Under the tree was Lilith, standing with Toby. Lilith's hair had been undone and her wine stained dress was a bit wrinkled. Lilith suddenly leaned in, pressing her lips against Toby's, running her fingers through his hair. Hannah sneered, unsure of what was happening, but she could tell Toby was not returning the gesture as passionate as Lilith was. Eventually the two parted and Lilith ran off through the garden, leaving toby under the tree. Toby watched as she disappeared before he spat, disgusted, on the ground. He walked over to the garden fountain, dipping his face in the crystal clear waters. He splashed the water over his cheeks and through his hair, before leaving the garden.
“What...on Mundus.” Bialus whispered, peeking out from behind the bush.
“So...that's what happened to Lilith.” Hannah added. The two decided that this information was best kept between themselves, and Diabolis should not be told. After all, who would want to ruin such a perfect night.
And....this is where things get long XD (I changed the spelling of the name for the woman who is head of the household. It was Synthia, it's now Cynthia. )
ns 15.158.61.20da2
