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Chapter 19 - CHAPTER 19: ARRIVAL AT HE CASTLE

The carriages reached the castle checkpoint, where a group of heavily armed guards awaited. Each guard wore black and crimson uniforms adorned with the insignia of the Western Kingdom—a bat with outstretched wings encircled by a crescent moon. This emblem reflected the vampire dominion over the West, a region known for its sophistication and shadowy elegance.

Mr. Simon disembarked first, handing over their credentials and invitations. The guards examined them carefully, their sharp eyes scanning for any irregularities before signaling the carriages forward.

The grand entrance of the castle loomed ahead, its towering gates flanked by statues of vampires in battle stances, their sharp features carved in stone with exquisite detail. As the girls stepped out of the carriages, they immediately felt the weight of attention. Performers and attendees alike turned to watch, whispers spreading like wildfire.

"They're from the Orchid House," someone murmured.

"Humans," another scoffed quietly. "What could they possibly offer?"

"They seem... different," one voice interjected, curious rather than mocking.

The girls ignored the stares and whispers, their poise unwavering. They knew they were rivals to many of these performers, most of whom were supernaturals. The tension in the air was palpable, but Madam Violet and Mr. Simon led the way with an air of authority that silenced much of the criticism.

Inspection

At the castle's grand entrance, their belongings were inspected. The guards examined each item with painstaking thoroughness, their movements brisk but professional. When they uncovered the weapons, the room seemed to still for a moment.

"Why do performers need weapons?" one of the guards asked, his pale hand lingering over the hilt of his sword.

"They're props," Darla explained calmly, stepping forward. She picked up one of the daggers and demonstrated its harmlessness by pressing the blade to her own hand.

The guard's red eyes narrowed, but he continued to inspect the weapons closely. After several minutes, he nodded. "They're fake. You're clear to proceed."

The tension eased, and the girls exhaled quietly as their belongings were repacked.

The Private Room

The girls were guided to their designated quarters, a spacious room adorned with dark velvet drapes and gold accents. Madam Violet had specifically requested a room away from the other performers to avoid potential sabotage.

"You'll stay here until it's time for your performance," Madam Violet said, her tone firm. "Rest, rehearse if needed, and don't let anyone inside who isn't authorized. Is that clear?"

"Yes, Madam," the girls chorused.

Satisfied, Madam Violet and Mr. Simon left to attend to other matters.

The Castle's Grand Hallways

As they settled into their room, the girls couldn't help but marvel at the castle. On their way, they had passed through grand hallways lined with towering portraits. The paintings depicted the rulers of the Western Kingdom—vampire kings and their families, each figure exuding power and majesty.

"Look at that one," Mia whispered, pointing to a portrait of a vampire king with piercing red eyes and a crown of black diamonds.

"He looks terrifying," Olivia muttered.

"Terrifying, but regal," Darla said thoughtfully. "This place is a reminder of who we're performing for. We need to be flawless."

The girls nodded, their determination renewed.

As they began unpacking their costumes and preparing for their final rehearsals, the magnitude of the night ahead settled over them. This wasn't just a performance—it was their chance to prove their worth on the grandest stage they had ever known.