Crimson Nightmares Book Two: Hell's Approval

Chapter Three

Thaïs looked a bit hesitant, but finally mustered the courage to step forward. With a determined expression on her face, she raised her hand and gave the bell a tentative tap.

The sound echoed through the city like thunder, and immediately a chill ran down my spine. The air seemed to shimmer around us as if a great weight had been lifted from the world. I clapped my hands together and smiled at Thaïs, "Ok, lets go prepare." I snapped my fingers and we were in the ball room. "Lily!" I called through the room. A woman came rushing into the room with red skin and black horns, she had long white hair.

"What is it Eliz?"

"We need another ball for the crowing of my freind, Thaïs."

"Thaïs, it is an honor to me one of Eliz's friends." She bowed. "And I would be honored to make a ball for you, but my lady you must rest. You are eight months now?"

"Yes, but I'm fine."

The room was bustling with activity as servants hurried to prepare for the upcoming celebration. Food and drink were brought in, and the decorations were put into place. The black and red theme was accented with gold and silver, creating an atmosphere that was both elegant and foreboding.

"Is every party the same?"

"Well, in hell there are colors that repersent the crime you had in the overworld. If there is black, red, gold and silver you were part of a mafia."

We watched as the ball was being made. It was the best one I had seen since my party, and had a golden ribbon tied around it. The workmanship was exquisite, and it was clear that Lily had put a great deal of effort into creating it. "It's beautiful," Thaïs breathed, her eyes shining with wonder. "Thank you."

As the last touches were being added, a deep rumble shook the floor beneath us. The door to the ballroom swung open, revealing a towering figure clad in black armor. Its skin was pale as snow, and its eyes glowed with an unearthly light. It stepped forward, bowing its head in respect to me. "My lady, the honor is mine to bear your presents."

"Thank you, Xerxes," I said with a smile. "This is Thaïs, the new overlord. Thaïs, this is Xerxes, my good friend and an overlord."

The tall figure turned to face Thaïs, its expression unreadable. "It is an honor to serve under your command, my lady."

She smiled back, feeling a mixture of pride and uncertainty. "Thank you, Xerxes."

The room fell silent as we waited for the other overlords and nobles to arrive. I could feel the weight of their expectations bearing down on me, but Thaïs seemed unaffected. She stood tall and confident, her eyes scanning the room with interest.

Finally, the sound of approaching footsteps filled the air. The grand double doors swung open, revealing a procession of nobles, their finery glittering in the candlelight. Lily changed into a tight black dress and served drinks to the guests. I grabbed Thaïs arm and snapped my fingers. We were standing in my giant closet. "Pick a dress."

She looked around at the array of dresses, each more extravagant than the last. "This one," she said, selecting a black gown that clung to her curves before flaring out at the hem. "It's beautiful."

I nodded in agreement, admiring the way the dress accentuated her figure. "It's perfect for you," I said with a smile. "Let's go." With a snap of my fingers, we were back in the ballroom. The guests had already begun to gather around the throne, their faces expectant.

As the music swelled, I made my way to the throne, motioning for Thaïs to stand beside me. She seemed to glow in the flickering candlelight.

I stood near the throne and cleared my throat. "My lords and ladies," I spoke, "we are gathered here tonight to celebrate the crowning of a new overlord. A good friend of mine from the time above and when I was alive. Thaïs Andréa." The crowd erupted into applause, and I smiled at her. She walked down the dark velvet carpet. As she took each step the carpet changed to her color, from gray to white and then to black. Her white dress shining in the light.