King Philip stood up, his face showing a mix of concern and authority. "Belga, the King of the Nightwalkers, here?" he repeated, his voice echoing through the hall. "This is unexpected."
The guests began to whisper among themselves, their worry evident. Eli, feeling the tension, watched closely.
"Bring him in," King Philip ordered firmly. The guard nodded and quickly left the hall.
As the doors opened, a tall, imposing figure entered, followed by another man—Vital, an old man, Belga's right hand. Belga's presence was striking. He had a lean, athletic build and moved with a graceful confidence. His skin was pale, almost glowing, contrasting sharply with his dark, flowing cloak. His hair was a rich, chestnut brown, neatly styled, and his eyes were a deep, mesmerizing shade of blue that seemed to hold centuries of wisdom and secrets. Despite his formidable reputation, there was a calm and composed aura about him, making him appear more like a noble diplomat than a fearsome leader. His sharp eyes scanned the room before settling on King Philip.
"Your Majesty," Belga greeted with a slight bow. "I apologize for the interruption, but I bring urgent news."
King Philip motioned for Belga to come closer. "Speak, Belga. What brings you here?"
Belga took a deep breath, his gaze steady. "I've come to offer an alliance."
The room erupted in whispers. The word "alliance" from Belga made everyone in the hall react. Some looked worried, others exchanged uncertain glances. A few gasped in shock. Everyone knew what an alliance with the Nightwalkers could mean.
Eli's mind raced as he listened. An alliance with the vampires? He couldn't help but feel suspicious. 'Is Belga the demon Asmodeus? Or the old man beside him?' The thought gnawed at him, but he knew he had to stay calm. He discreetly reached for the tiny flute hanging from his necklace.
King Philip's expression hardened. "An alliance, you say? And why do you think we need your help?"
Belga's eyes narrowed slightly, "My followers and I are ready to protect Veloria. We all know that your people lack the physical strength to defend against the Lycans and other threats. With the strength of the Nightwalkers, we can ensure your kingdom's safety."
He paused, studying the beautiful woman beside the king—Princess Denise. Then he continued, looking back at King Philip, "The benefits of our alliance are many. Our strength and abilities can support your defenses. Together, we can create a force that no enemy would dare challenge."
King Philip then leaned in, his eyes narrowing. "What about my people? How can I be sure that the Nightwalkers will not attack them?"
Belga's expression softened. "I give you my word, Your Majesty. If any Nightwalker harms your people, I will personally behead them in front of the citizens of Veloria."
Eli, still deep in thought, decided to test his suspicion. He slowly raised the tiny flute to his lips and blew into it, silently praying it would reveal something. But nothing happened. He clenched his jaw in frustration. 'Too bad.'
"Where will you get the blood to satisfy your thirsty bodies?" King Philip asked, his voice filled with doubt and concern.
The tension in the room grew heavier as everyone sensed the seriousness of his question. His brow furrowed, showing his worry about what an alliance with the Nightwalkers might mean for his kingdom.
"That's easy to discuss. I can guarantee that your people will not be harmed but will instead be protected," Belga said, his voice steady and confident. A glint of determination shone in his eyes, revealing his commitment to the alliance. "What matters most is that our help is available, and you will need it now."
King Philip's face remained stern. "And why do you think we need your help now?"
Belga took a deep breath. "In five days, during the last full moon, the Lycans will attack your palace. My scouts have confirmed this. Without our help, Veloria will fall."
A hush fell over the hall as everyone absorbed Belga's words. King Philip's face darkened, worry etched on his features. The people exchanged nervous glances, understanding the danger they were about to face.
After a moment, King Philip spoke, his voice firm but tense. "Everything you have said is in our favor. So, what do you want in return for this alliance?"
Belga's gaze shifted to Princess Denise, standing quietly by her father's side. "The hand of your daughter, Princess Denise."
The hall fell into a stunned silence. Gasps of shock and disbelief echoed through the hall. Princess Denise's eyes widened in surprise, her face turning pale. The nobles and officials exchanged horrified glances, unable to comprehend the audacity of Belga's request.
King Philip's voice cut through the tension like a blade. "Crixus, the King of the Lycans, has also asked for my daughter's hand. Why should I choose you over him?"
Belga's smile didn't waver. "Unlike the Lycans, we don't seek to conquer lands. They'll take Veloria whether or not you offer an alliance. Soon, they'll set their sights on the entire kingdom."
Belga paused, letting his words sink in. "I do not want to expand my territory, but to protect it. My offer of an alliance was meant to be fair for both our kingdoms. However," he glanced at Princess Denise, "seeing the princess's beauty has changed my mind. Even if the princess alone is enough for me."
Couldn't resist staying silent any longer, Princess Denise suddenly spoke up, her voice clear and strong. "It seems you value appearances over wisdom, Belga. I am not a mere token to be traded for your desired alliance. Marriage to me is sacred, driven by the heart, not a tactic for strategy. I am human, and I belong with my people. It is my duty to lead Veloria, even if it remains the last human kingdom in the world. I would rather die as a human than live long under a curse."
Her words echoed through the hall, leaving everyone in stunned silence. The determination in her voice and the fire in her eyes made it clear that she would not be swayed easily.
Eli, watching quietly, clenched his fists. 'Yeah! That's right, Princess Denise,' he thought, silently cheering her on.
King Philip took a deep breath and spoke, his voice steady. "Belga, this is not a decision to be made lightly. We must consider the advice of my officials and the wishes of Princess Denise. We will think it over."
Belga shook his head, his expression firm. "I apologize, Your Majesty, but I cannot wait. I need your decision tonight."
A tense silence filled the dining hall. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls, and the air was thick with anticipation. King Philip's face tightened as he thought about the situation. He looked around the hall, seeing the worried faces of his advisors and the hopeful eyes of his daughter.
Finally, he turned to Belga and said, "For that matter, the princess will decide." He then looked at Princess Denise with a confident smile, his eyes showing his trust in her.
Princess Denise met her father's gaze and stepped forward, her eyes blazing with determination. She looked directly at Belga and said, "Let them come," she said, her voice unwavering. "Without an alliance, I will prove to you that we can defend our palace against the Lycans."