Chereads / Love at hell’s gate / Chapter 12 - Chapter Twelve

Chapter 12 - Chapter Twelve

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,

In the grand ballroom hall,

The preparations for the party were in full swing. The sound of music played in the background as demons and creatures of the night worked tirelessly to ensure everything was perfect for their beloved princess. The ballroom, adorned with opulence and elegance was a sight to behold. Crystal chandeliers hung up from the high ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow over the room.

Delicate lace curtains billowed in the gentle breeze that wafted through the open windows, adding a touch of whimsy to the elegant setting. The towering walls were adorned with draperies of luxurious silk, in shades of purple and gold, catching the flickering light of the crystal chandeliers and adding a regal touch to the decor.

Large, glided vases of fresh roses and peonies were placed throughout the room, their sweet fragrance filling the air. Dark magic was used to decorate the ballroom with black roses and flickering candles that added an eerie glow. Glided mirrors reflected the flickering candlelight, making the space feel magical.

As the guests began to arrive, the atmosphere was thick with excitement and anticipation. Demons, in their human skin, paraded into the hall, each one bearing a gift meant to impress the princess. The room is filled with princes, princesses, important officials and important families from all corners of the underworld.

A grand table stretched the length of the room, set with the finest porcelain dishes and sparkling silver ware. Delicate lace tablecloths adorned with intricate patterns of roses and vines added touch of whimsy to the lavish display. The aroma of exotic, otherworldly dishes wafted through the room, tantalizing the senses of all who were present.

The kingdom of nephridia was known for their ability of exorcism, necromancy and enchantment of charms. From them came the priest of the underworld. They are known to be the best for their necromancy and charm enchantment which proved to be helpful to the King.

The large doors swing open as Princess Aria made a grand entrance, dressed in a gown made of shadows and adorned with jewels that glinted like malevolent stars. She was a vision of ethereal beauty, with shimmering silver hair cascading down her back like molten silver. But what truly captivated those who gazed upon her were her eyes – a deep, rich crimson that seemed to hold the mysteries of the universe within them. They shone with a fiery intensity, contrasting starkly against her pale, porcelain skin. She moved with a grace that was otherworldly, her eyes sparkled with delight as she surveyed the scene before her, a smile playing on her lips.

The festivities began with a displaying of dark magic, as illusions danced through the air and fire leapt from the palms of the enchanters. In one corner of the room, an orchestra played a soft melody, filling the air with enchanting music that seemed to dance along with the flickering candlelight.

The room filled with whispers and laughter as the guests mingled sipping on cocktails and enjoying the elegant atmosphere.

Nikki, Amber, Alison and Sabrina made their way into the room. The lights of the party reflected off the sequins and beads that adorned them as they made a grand entrance.

Alison wore a sleek red dress that hugged her curves in all the right places, the slit up the side revealing a hint of her toned leg. Her dark hair cascaded down her back in loose waves, adding to her air of sophistication.

Amber sashayed into the room in a vibrant emerald, green dress that accentuated her olive skin tone. The plunging neckline and open back added an element of allure to her ensemble, drawing the eyes of everyone in the room. Her smoky eye makeup and crimson lips completed her dramatic look.

Sabrina glided gracefully in the middle of Alison and Amber in a form fitting black gown that sparkled in dim light. Her hair was swept up into an elegant updo, showcasing her delicate neck and shoulders. Her crystal earrings caught the light with every moment, drawing attention to her radiant smile.

Suddenly the music turned to a sultry beat as all eyes turned to Nikki. She is wearing an elegant floor length dress that shimmered in the soft candlelight. The fabric flowed like liquid silk against her skin, shimmering luxurious silk with a delicate lace overlay, clung to her curves like a lover's embrace, forming a fitting silhouette, hugging her in all the right places.

The regal purple colour with silver embroidery contrasted beautifully with her porcelain skin, enhancing her delicate features. The plunging neckline revealed just a hint of cleavage, teasing and tantalizing all who dared to look. The back of the dress dipped low, an open back with criss-cross spaghetti straps adorned with sparkling crystals. Jewel encrusted buttons cascaded down the back.

The skirt of the dress was styled in a mermaid silhouette with a cascading train. With each step she took, the dress swirled, revealing glimpses of her slender long legs.

The delicate lace detailing added a touch of sophistication while the dramatic slit up the thigh hinted at a daring side just waiting to be unleashed. The fitted bodice accentuated her hourglass figure, cinched at the waist with a sparkling silver belt that sparkled with every moment she made, drawing eye to her slender waist.

Her long, bare arms were adorned with delicate bracelets and her hair swept up in an intricate updo, revealing the graceful line of her neck and allowing her dangling earrings to catch the light. Her hair is accessorized with a silver tiara adorned with purple gemstones.

At the moment, she was the centre of attention, a vision of elegance and allure that captivated the whole room. While some couldn't take their gaze away from her, some despised the mere sight of her but couldn't help but steal glances.

After they all get over the mesmerizing effect Nikki had on them, whispers and sneers quickly spread through the crowd as they recognized her as the only "dormant" present among them.

"Disgraceful", a princess muttered, her disdain dripping with contempt. "How dare she show her face here among true demons?".

The insults and ridicule continued, echoing through the room, as Nikki stood stoically, her eyes fixed on the ground, enduring the verbal assault with a quiet dignity that only seemed to incense her tormentors further.

"Get out of here dormant while we're still playing nice".

"Yeah, disgraces like you are not allowed in such sacred gatherings".

Suddenly the heavy oak door swung open, as all eyes turned towards the figure stepping into the room. The boy had an unmistakable air of intimidation surrounding him, causing a wave of fear to ripple through the occupants. His presence alone demanded respect, his posture exuding confidence and authority.

As he stepped into the room, a hush fell over the crowd like a sudden chill, sending shivers down their spines.

His hair was as dark as the midnight sky, falling across his forehead in soft waves. But his eyes drew the most attention – a striking shade of crimson that seemed to pierce anyone who dared to meet his gaze.

The silence in the room was deafening as the boy made his way further in, each step echoing with power, making everyone lower their heads in submission. As his sharp gaze scanned the room, his eyes fell upon Nikki and the demons who were taunting her. He smiles at the sight of Nikki and headed for the centre of the room.

As he reached the centre of the room, he stops in front of Nikki. He smiles and then bows slightly. "Greetings Princess Nikki", he greeted.

The crowned prince?" Nikki called as she stares in disbelief at the sight of him. What was the crowned prince of the underworld doing bowing in front of her? Sabrina nudges Nikki from behind.

"My deepest apologies for my rudeness your highness. Princess Nikki of the Middle chamber greets his highness, the crowned prince", she said taking a bow. "Why is he so good looking?" she pondered as her eyes cruises his features.

His ensemble consisted of a sleek tailored blue tuxedo, adorned with intricate gold embroidery that shimmered under the soft glow of the chandeliers. The coat, double breasted with gold buttons, was fitted perfectly to his form accentuating his broad shoulders and commanding presence.

Beneath his tuxedo, he wore a black waist coat and a crisp white shirt with a high collar, fastened with dazzling gold cufflinks. His coordinating trousers were expertly tailored, draping elegantly over black leather shoes with gold buckles that gleamed under the room's light.

A velvet cloak, the colour of the midnight sky, cascaded down his back, enhancing his stature. The garment lined with rich silk, displaying a subtle pattern of intertwined gold and silver that caught the light with each moment.

On his waist, he carried a polished silver rapier, its hilt encrusted with precious gemstones that sparkled like stars against the dark velvet of his cloak. His hands covered by velvet gloves a golden crown adorned with sapphires on his head.

"There's no need to be too formal', he smiled at her as Nikki looks away realizing, she had been staring.

A man rushes towards the crowned prince and goes down on one knee. "My prince it's a taboo to talk to her. She's the dormant from the middle chamber", he said.

"I don't remember asking for your opinion", the crowned prince remarked averting his gaze to him.

"I deeply apologise my prince", he said as he bows his head.

The once silent room became filled with whispers and murmurs.

"Why is the crowned prince taking interest in her?"

"Maybe it's out of pity".

"I believe the prince has 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 smirks and then fixes his gaze on Nikki. With a wave of his hand, a powerful surge of energy emanated from him, immobilizing everyone in the room except Nikki, causing them to scream in pain.

"What happened to the respect you had when I came in?" he inquired, increasing the pressure on them.

"Your highness", Nikki called.

"You must be pretty impressive if you can withstand my pressure", he remarked.

"You flatter me your highness", she smiled.

"Is there anything you wish for? Ask and I'll do it for you", he stated.

"If your highness doesn't mind, I'd like if you release everyone from your pressure", she replied.

"Is that really you what you want?" he asked shocked by her request.

"I'd like to remind you that we're at a birthday party of a high ranked princess. It is a sacred gathering. And besides, you're hurting the birthday girl on her special day", she responded.

"You do have a point. She did nothing wrong".

"So, you'll release them?" she asked.

"Sure", he said as he waved his hand as the energy disperse releasing everyone from its immobilizing effect. He then made his way to the grand, gilded throne at the of the room.

"Thank you, your highness", she said as she bows.