It was a beautiful night in Berlin, with a clear sky and shining stars. Families and individuals gathered around a pearl-white mansion, adorned with a grand entrance, lush gardens, and an imposing gate. Each attendee wore a masquerade mask, presenting their IDs and invitations to the security guards stationed at the entrance. Though the night was filled with laughter and smiles, beneath those masks hid some of the most depraved individuals Europe had ever produced.
Criminals, murderers, kingpins, CEOs, and corrupt politicians—all gathered in one place like sheep drawn to their shepherd. From the balcony of a room overlooking the garden, Kyros himself stood, resplendent in a pristine daisy-white suit and holding a glass of wine.
"Ah, so they are all finally here," Kyros remarked.
"Yes, Father," confirmed two voices from behind him.
"So, children, any news of our two traitors?" Kyros inquired, his gaze unwavering as he surveyed the garden, where the guests mingled before being welcomed inside.
"No. We have placed trained guards, assassins, and Codex users at all key points in the mansion. I do not mean to question you, Father, but why require the guests to wear masquerade masks?" asked a feminine voice. It was Luna, her features a mirror of Kyros' own.
"Roland and Leo are no fools. They wouldn't have come here unless given an opening. Even rats must take risks to feed themselves," Kyros replied.
"Yes, Father, but my question is," said a serene, tranquil male voice, the same one belonging to the person who had witnessed Roland fall into the River Spree, "why didn't Sister Luna finish the job?"
"You dare to suggest I tried to save Roland, Kyren?" Luna hissed at her brother, Kyren. The two had been tasked with eliminating Roland that night but had severely underestimated his fortune and divine providence.
"Silence," Kyros commanded, his voice radiating authority. The siblings dropped to their knees, overwhelmed by the sheer aura emanating from their father. "I will not dwell on your failures, for I know you can redeem yourselves," Kyros said, dismissing the oppressive energy.
"Thank you, Father," Luna and Kyren said in unison, bowing their heads.
"Inform the staff to let the guests inside. The night is about to begin," Kyros instructed. The siblings departed to carry out his orders, leaving Kyros alone on the balcony.
Donning his own masquerade mask, Kyros made his way inside. Unbeknownst to him, the two traitors he sought had already infiltrated the mansion.
Roland and Leo, armed with information provided by Maria, had found an entrance through the staff quarters. They had subdued two waiters, taking their uniforms and name tags. Their tailor-made masquerade masks completed their disguises—Roland's mask was pitch black, while Leo's was golden, resembling the sharp eyes of an owl.
"We finally made it in!" Leo whispered, adjusting his mask and suit.
"Don't celebrate too early; we still have a job to do," Roland cautioned, earning a nod from Leo.
The grand ballroom was a masterpiece of opulence and splendor. The deep crimson carpet stretched endlessly across the expansive hall, its intricate patterns whispering tales of royalty and grandeur. Above, a sea of golden lights cascaded from an immense chandelier, its crystals scattering light like stars across the polished marble floors and gilded walls.
Tables adorned with fine linens and elaborate centerpieces overflowed with decadent foods and sparkling beverages. The air was rich with the aromas of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and exotic spices, harmonizing with the soft classical music performed by a string quartet in the corner.
The guests, a mix of elegant figures clad in flowing gowns and tailored suits, moved gracefully through the space. Their laughter and conversation wove a lively tapestry of sound, adding vibrancy to the gilded elegance around them.
At the far end of the room, an ornate balcony loomed above the festivities. Flanked by towering golden pillars and draped in velvet curtains, it commanded attention from every corner of the hall.
Roland and Leo carried trays of drinks and food, diligently serving the guests. Though it pained them to cater to such despicable individuals, they swallowed their pride, knowing their true mission lay ahead. Meeting briefly at the main table, they exchanged hushed words.
"Any news on Kyros?" Roland whispered.
"The pigs said he'll be giving a speech soon. Keep moving," Leo replied. Roland nodded, and the two resumed their charade.
For three hours, the charade continued. When the clock struck midnight, Kyros, flanked by Luna and Kyren, appeared on the balcony. He tapped his wine glass with a spoon, commanding the crowd's attention.
"Greetings, friends and family! Welcome to this modest feast in my honor after my return from Russia. It is a pleasure to see you all in good health and prosperity!" Kyros' voice carried gratitude, though laced with deception.
The guests, too drunk and full to question his sincerity, erupted into applause.
"As you all know, we hold complete control over Germany. From its political world to its slums, we are the chosen—the true masters of our glorious Vaterland. There are those who have opposed our rule, those who have called us mad. Yet here we stand, working tirelessly to lead humanity into its next stage of evolution! With Deutschland as the first step, we usher in the Age of Codexes!" Kyros declared.
The crowd erupted in cheers, their enthusiasm echoing through the hall. But as the applause reached its peak, a black crescent slash and two white bullets tore through the air toward Kyros. Luna and Kyren intercepted the attacks just in time. Kyros smiled faintly as the crowd scattered in panic. Roland and Leo stepped forward, their masquerade masks discarded and weapons drawn.
"The Age of Codexes? The destruction of the weak?" Roland repeated coldly. "Who are you to decide who is weak and who is strong, Kyros? Has all this power gone to your head?"
"Ah, you two have finally revealed yourselves. Roland, ever so righteous and cold. And Leo, bold and impatient," Kyros observed with amusement.
Leo chuckled. "I'll admit, Kyros, this ball reminds me of the grand events back in France. But do you know what else we French are known for?" He aimed his revolvers at Kyros. "Overthrowing emperors who think they're gods!"
"Enough, you wretched rats! Who are you to judge Father?" Kyren barked but fell silent when Kyros raised his hand.
"Is this a declaration of war?" Kyros asked, a smile forming on his lips.
"Damn right! As my forefathers said: 'Vive la révolution!'" Leo shouted, opening fire. His bullets were intercepted by Kyren, who stepped in to protect his father. Luna and Kyren, along with fifty assassins and a handful of Codex users, surrounded the Knight and the Gunslinger.
"Gloves off, Knight?" Leo asked, grinning as he pointed his weapons at the crowd.
"Gloves off," Roland replied, readying his sword and pistol.
Luna and Kyren emitted dangerous auras, while the assassins prepared to strike. This fight would leave no party unscathed. The first battle of a long war had begun.