Cecilia's Birthday II

The Slatemark Imperial Palace was massive by any measure. Unlike the palaces of my old world, this one seamlessly combined traditional grandeur with advanced modern technology. The entire structure was an impressive blend of old-world elegance and contemporary innovation.

The security measures were a prime example. Discreet cameras and mana-detection barriers were seamlessly incorporated into the palace's architecture, hidden in the elegant design. Modern lighting fixtures adorned the walls, casting a soft, warm glow that enhanced the palace's opulence while maintaining a sense of practicality. The lights were programmable, adapting to changes in ambience as the evening went on, highlighting key areas and guiding guests effortlessly.

We walked along the marble-floored hallway, our footsteps barely audible against the polished surface. The high ceilings above were adorned with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from the history of the Slatemark Empire—its victories, its rulers, and even myths that had shaped its identity. Chandeliers hung from above, crystal ornaments glittering in the light, adding a sense of timeless beauty to the already impressive surroundings.

Rich tapestries depicting famous battles and alliances lined the corridor, each telling its own story. 

As we made our way through the grand hallway, my eyes were drawn to one of the larger tapestries hanging on the wall. It depicted a regal figure standing amidst a radiant battlefield, his presence alone seemingly holding back the tides of chaos. His armor glimmered with an ethereal light, and his expression was one of unyielding determination.

This was Julius Slatemark, the first Radiant-rank and the founder of the Slatemark Empire. A legend who was known not just for his strength but for his Gift, Empyrean Order, which had allowed him to shape the empire and establish a lasting peace. His presence in the tapestry emanated authority—an indomitable figure who had risen above all others to carve his place in history.

I paused for a moment, taking in the intricate details. Julius stood amidst a maelstrom of elements—fire, lightning, and wind all swirling around him, and yet there was perfect order. The chaos seemed to bend to his will, highlighting his power over reality itself.

As I gazed at the tapestry, I felt a familiar warmth on my arm, the sigils glowing faintly beneath my sleeve. A gentle voice echoed in my mind, soft and wistful.

"Julius... It's been so long since I last saw him."

It was Luna. Her voice carried a deep sadness, one that reverberated through me.

Julius Slatemark was the one who had Luna's qilin will before me.

'I hadn't fully considered this before, but if he possessed both Empyrean Order and Lucent Harmony, wouldn't he have been an unstoppable force?' I thought.

The only two others I knew of who had two Gifts were Lucifer Windward and Jack Blazespout. Technically, Julius didn't have two Gifts—he had a Gift and a qilin will—but they functioned as two Gifts, and together, they made him a true monster.

This was something that wasn't fully explored in the original novel.

Why could only a select few humans wield two Gifts, while most couldn't? It was a mystery that had never been explained.

Lucifer hadn't obtained Luna's will in the original storyline, likely because it would have been his third Gift, which seemed impossible. But the fact remained—he did have two Gifts.

If obtaining two beast wills was even remotely possible, at least some of the Radiant-ranked individuals would have already managed it. But they hadn't.

This was another crucial detail that had been glossed over in the novel.

The only explanation I could think of was that Julius, Lucifer, and Jack were simply special—unique beings whose very existence defied the usual rules of this world.

'Not today,' I thought, shaking my head to dispel the lingering thoughts.

I turned away from the tapestry, refocusing my attention. It wasn't the time to dwell on mysteries I couldn't solve yet.

With a steadying breath, I followed my parents and Count Chase as we stepped through the grand doors and into the hall. The atmosphere shifted instantly—warmth, music, and laughter surrounded us. Nobles dressed in the finest attire mingled beneath the glow of ornate chandeliers, their voices blending into a hum of conversations and polite greetings.

The vast banquet hall was alive with elegance and opulence. Tables were adorned with intricate floral arrangements, while servers moved gracefully between the guests, offering trays of drinks.

"Arthur," my father said quietly, leaning closer, "let's greet the princess first. After that, you may mingle as you see fit."

I nodded. "Understood."

As we made our way through the hall, I could feel the ambient mana in the room—an almost overwhelming presence emanating from the powerful figures gathered here.

The sheer amount of power concentrated in this space was staggering. I could sense many Immortal-rank individuals and dozens of Ascendant-rankers, not even counting the Imperial Knights stationed for security. It was a stark reminder of the influence wielded by those gathered tonight.

Before long, a herald's voice echoed through the hall, commanding everyone's attention. "Announcing the arrival of the Imperial Family of the Slatemark Empire!"

The room fell into a respectful hush, and all eyes turned toward the entrance. The grand double doors opened, revealing the Imperial procession. The sight of the Slatemark family was an impressive one—each member exuding an aura of authority, their presence enough to quiet even the most influential nobles in attendance.

Leading them was Emperor Quinn Slatemark, his expression one of regal composure. His robes were richly embroidered, adorned with the insignia of the Empire, and his bearing spoke of a man who had ruled for decades. Beside him walked Empress Adeline, graceful and poised, her eyes sweeping across the hall as if taking in each face in an instant.

Behind them, Crown Prince Valerian Slatemark followed, his demeanor carefully measured. He offered polite smiles to those who caught his eye, though there was a stiffness in his posture, a hint of unease that betrayed his discomfort amidst such powerful company.

And then there was Princess Cecilia, the guest of honor. She walked with a quiet confidence, her gown flowing elegantly as she moved. Her gaze met mine briefly, and she gave a small, almost imperceptible nod of acknowledgment.

As the Imperial Family made their way to the platform at the far end of the hall, conversations resumed in hushed tones. The room shifted once more, a current of anticipation running through the crowd.