Cecilia's Birthday III

Once they took their seats, the herald called for the first to offer their greetings: the other superpowers of the world.

The Windwards, led by Lucifer Windward, approached the platform with measured confidence. Lucifer, with his piercing gaze and composed demeanor, bowed deeply before the Emperor and Empress. His uncle spoke with the eloquence expected of the Windward family, extending their formal congratulations to the princess.

Next came the Creightons, led by Rachel Creighton, who moved with an air of refined grace. Her polite smile never wavered as she approached the platform, her presence calm and poised. She bowed respectfully, her older sister, Kathyln Creighton, delivering a warm greeting to the Imperial Family.

The Ashbluffs, led by Jin Ashbluff, approached next. Jin's eyes held a hint of restrained intensity as he offered his bow. His mother was with him and she spoke clearly and firmly, expressing their family's best wishes to Princess Cecilia.

Following them were the Viserions, led by Ian Viserion. The Viserion family, known for their connection with dragons, carried an aura of strength. Ian bowed formally, his eyes meeting Cecilia's briefly before they both nodded in acknowledgment. His uncle's words were respectful, though there was a hint of the fire that defined their lineage.

The Mount Hua sect, led by Seraphina Zenith, came next, their attire reflecting their Eastern heritage. Seraphina, with her graceful movements and calm presence, offered her respects to the Imperial Family, her uncle, Li Zenith, speaking of their honor to be in attendance.

After them, the Kagu family, led by Ren Kagu, approached. Ren's demeanor was more subdued, his eyes betraying little emotion. His father spoke with the polished manner expected of their family, congratulating the princess while Ren bowed in respect.

With the superpowers finished, the next to approach were Archduke Astoria and his daughter, Elara Astoria. Elara carried herself with an air of gentleness, her smile sincere as she bowed to the Imperial Family. The Archduke offered his congratulations in a composed and dignified manner, his words met with polite nods from the Emperor and Empress.

Duke Blazespout and his son, Jack Blazespout, followed. Jack's eyes held an intensity that matched his reputation, and his expression was a mask of politeness. The Duke spoke in a deep, steady voice, extending their family's greetings. Jack bowed slightly, his gaze unwavering as he looked upon the Imperial Family.

Next were Marquis Arundel with his daughter, Liora Arundel, who had an aura of elegance and strength about her. Marquis Arundel offered his congratulations with grace, and Liora bowed respectfully, her presence calm and focused.

Following them, Marquis Grimfeld and his son, Tobias Grimfeld, stepped forward. Tobias, a broad-shouldered young man with a confident bearing, bowed deeply, and the Marquis expressed his family's gratitude for the invitation.

After the prominent families, several more families followed, including Kali Luna and the Luna family, and Naomi Draven with Count Draven. Naomi's eyes were sharp, a hint of curiosity as she took in the scene before bowing, her father offering their greetings to the Imperial Family. Finally, a number of other nobles came forward, each offering their congratulations and best wishes to the princess, their words beginning to blur together as the process continued.

And then, it was our turn.

"Come, Arthur," my father said, his voice low as he gestured toward the raised platform. "Let's make our introductions."

I followed closely behind, aware of the eyes on us as we approached. This was the moment where the Nightingales would present themselves before the Imperial Family—a gesture of respect, but also a chance to establish our presence among the elite.

We reached the platform, and my parents bowed deeply before the Emperor and Empress. I followed suit, inclining my head in a respectful bow.

"Your Imperial Majesties," my father said, his voice steady. "It is an honor for the Nightingale family to be present on this joyous occasion. We extend our sincerest congratulations to Princess Cecilia."

The Emperor nodded, his gaze sharp as he regarded my father. "We are pleased to have you here, Lord Nightingale. Your family's loyalty to the Empire has always been appreciated."

My mother stepped forward, offering a small, beautifully wrapped gift. "A humble token for the Princess, Your Majesty. May this day be filled with joy."

Empress Adeline accepted the gift with a gracious smile. "Thank you, Lady Nightingale."

Cecilia's gaze then shifted to me, her expression softening slightly. "Arthur, it's good to see you," she said, her voice warm.

I met her eyes and bowed once more. "Thank you, Your Highness. It is an honor to be here for your special day."

She studied me for a moment, a faint smile playing on her lips. "I hope you enjoy the festivities tonight. Please, feel free to partake in the celebration."

I nodded, stepping back as my parents finished their greetings.

The crowd had begun to relax again, and conversations resumed as guests moved around the hall, exchanging pleasantries and forming alliances with careful words and smiles.

Suddenly, the herald's voice rang out once more, cutting through the noise, and a hush fell over the room.

"Announcing an unexpected guest," the herald called, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. "This gentleman claims he did not receive an invitation but... wished to attend."

Whispers spread through the hall, curiosity and confusion etched on the faces of those gathered. The grand double doors opened, and a man stepped into the hall, his presence immediately commanding attention.

He wore simple yet refined robes, dark gray with subtle embroidery, nothing as elaborate as the nobles surrounding us. His hair was dark, streaked with hints of silver, tied back loosely. His eyes were sharp, almost piercing, as they swept across the room with an air of casual confidence. Despite his plain attire, there was something about him—a quiet, intense aura that made the air in the hall seem to grow heavier, a presence that suggested he was far more than he appeared.

Hs frame was lean but solid, like someone forged by countless battles. The way he walked, the way he held himself—he moved like a predator, and the room seemed to instinctively part for him, giving him a wide berth.

The man stepped forward, his gaze sweeping across the hall, and everyone waited in tense silence, unsure of what to expect.

He walked with purpose, his expression unreadable, and as he approached the platform where the Imperial Family sat, the tension in the room became palpable.

My eyes widened slightly as realization struck me, and I felt a chill run down my spine.

I knew who he was.