Chapter 213-The Ball.
Chapter 213-The Ball.
213 Chapter 213-The Ball.
Azrail could see through Liang's plans, the desire mainly being to seduce his mother and to use her, not a bad plan per se. Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com
'Guess the idea of too much arrogance exists even within his mind too.'
Azrail mused, his amusement playing within his eyes as Liang turned to look at the center of the huge hall, his voice spreading around.
"Let's begin the ball."
Just as his voice fell, all the dancers and musicians jumped into their roles, a light soothing music filling the place, while the sensual dancers began their endearing dance. All of them had light Qi within them and even used light weight Qi to make the music more appealing and relaxing while the dancers moved forth to make their movements more attractive and hypnotic.
By now, most of the ones affected by the sudden push in power had already recovered. The more powerful ones of the Empire were already eyeing Azrail's location, their greed very relevant. The younger ones were fully focused on him and Valencia, the enigma, whose beauty couldn't seem to take their eyes off them.
"I assume you have a teacher, Azrail?"
The Empress, Aihan Aurelian, a beauty, one of powerful background, of great mind and power, currently tightly holding the spot of the Empress, not even giving space for any other women to eye the position at all. Her black hair and eyes matched her beauty as she focused on Azrail, a light smile filling her face as she asked the question.
"I do."
Azrail spoke in a low tone, to which Aihan didn't relent. While Liang talked up with his mother and Raena, the Empress seemed to want to focus on him and Valencia.
"Why did you suddenly change your name to Azrail?"
Aihan asked, her face devoid of much expression as she did so. To this, Azrail directly met the eyes of Aihan, his calm eyes seemingly devouring her soul as he spoke.
"Nothing much, I just didn't like my old name. I am starting a new life, and I just wanted a new name to match it."
The response of Azrail made Aihan smile. She lightly tapped on her table as several drinks started to be placed around by the servants. Taking a light sip from it, she started to speak.
"You named yourself as Azrail D. Xavon, right? What does the D stand for? Does it have anything to do with your teacher?"
'Now she is truly digging.'
Aihan spoke with a smile at Valencia's words, and it was within this atmosphere that Liang suddenly spoke to Azrail.
"So Azrail, what's your plan in the lower heavens? With your talents and power, I assume you would be leaving soon?"
His question made the atmosphere a bit fiery, but Azrail dealt with it with a nonchalant gaze as he spoke.
"Not really, for now, I just want to focus here, and maybe soon I will be leaving the lower heavens."
"I see, that's good. Having ambitions is good."
Liang the Emperor replied with a light smile. Azrail acknowledged Liang's response with a nod, a subtle glint of amusement in his eyes. The intricate dance of power and diplomacy continued each word a strategic move in the larger game.
Aihan, sensing the undercurrents, decided to steer the conversation. "Azrail, I've heard tales of your prowess in cultivation. The Lower Heavens can be a treacherous place, and your talents would be wasted if you limit yourself to the courtly affairs here. What motivates you to stay?"
Azrail took a moment to sip his drink, relishing the taste before responding. "Empress Aihan, the intricacies of the Lower Heavens intrigue me. There are hidden realms, forgotten arts, and ancient mysteries waiting to be unraveled. It's a vast playground for someone with a thirst for knowledge and power."
The Empress nodded, her eyes gleaming with understanding. "Ambition is a double-edged sword, Azrail. It can elevate you to greatness or lead you into the abyss. Choose your path wisely."
"I'm well aware, Empress Aihan. The Lower Heavens may hold challenges, but I'm confident in my ability to navigate them. Besides, every challenge is an opportunity for growth," Azrail replied with a confident smile.
The conversation flowed seamlessly, and Liang interjected, "Azrail, have you considered forming alliances in the Lower Heavens? The political landscape there is vastly different from what you're accustomed to here."
Azrail's eyes sparkled with a calculated gleam. "Indeed, Emperor Liang. I believe in the power of alliances. In the Lower Heavens, strength is not just measured by one's cultivation but by the network of allies, one can forge. I'm open to collaboration with those whose interests align with mine."
Liang nodded, seemingly satisfied with the response. "Smart. It's a chaotic realm, and having reliable allies can be the key to survival."
As the conversation continued, Azrail deftly navigated the subtle power plays, dropping hints of his ambitions without revealing too much. The courtly dance unfolded, with each participant vying for influence and advantage.
Valencia, ever perceptive, leaned into Azrail. 'It seems they're testing you, my love.'
Azrail smiled, appreciating her insight. 'I'm well aware, Valencia.'
The evening progressed, a symphony of politics and intrigue, with Azrail orchestrating his part with finesse. The courtly ball became a stage for subtle power plays.
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