The chamber music resumed its solemn tone as Guy Crimson and Grayfia Lucifuge glided across the hall. The contrast was magnificent: Guy's wild crimson against Grayfia's gelid silver. Every movement was an exchange of sensory information; Guy attempted to probe the depths of Cocytus's power, while Grayfia maintained her impenetrable mental guard, protected by Sirzechs' authority.
When the final note of the waltz echoed, Guy stepped back with a theatrical bow, kissing the back of Grayfia's gloved hand with a smile that did not reach his eyes. He turned to Sirzechs, who awaited him with the serenity of one who already dominated the board.
— The wine is excellent, the company is impeccable, and your Silver Queen dances as if she were walking over time — Guy said, adjusting the collar of his gala suit. — But entertainment has its limits. I didn't come here just to test your marble, Sirzechs.
Guy walked toward the dimensional rift that still pulsed faintly in the center of the hall. Before entering, he paused and looked over his shoulder, his aura suddenly becoming heavy enough to make the crystal chandeliers creak.
— Consider this my parting gift — Guy's voice turned grave, losing its playful tone. — The balance of the Octagram has been shaken. Your ascension and the creation of this... Las Noches... did not go unnoticed. The next Walpurgis has been summoned. And the main theme will not be the growth of Tempest, but rather the judgment of Alabaster's sovereignty.
Sirzechs kept his gaze fixed on the Primordial Demon Lord.
— A judgment implies there is a judge, Guy. In Alabaster, the only recognized authority is that of Shiva.
Guy let out a genuine laugh, causing the present Arrancars to tighten their grips on their sword hilts.
— I like your arrogance. It reminds me of myself back when I was still learning how to count souls. But take the warning: prepare your best rhetoric and your strongest warriors. Walpurgis will decide if Alabaster is an ally of the world order or a threat that must be erased.
With a dismissive wave, Guy Crimson vanished into the rift, which closed with a snap that sounded like thunder. The silence that followed in the Great Hall of Spheres was heavy with implications. Rimuru approached Sirzechs, concern visible on his slime-like face.
— Walpurgis... this is serious, Sirzechs. They're going to want you to submit to their system — Rimuru said. — And if Guy is giving a warning, it's because he won't make it easy this time.
Sirzechs turned to Grayfia, who was already at his side with her crystal clipboard, ready for the next phase.
— Grayfia, the guests are becoming restless. Ensure the ball continues until dawn. I don't want them thinking the visit of a Primordial shakes us.
— Certainly, my Lord — Grayfia replied, her silver eyes shining with a new intensity. — I will also give orders to Ulquiorra and Grimmjow to begin combat simulation training against Demon Lord-class beings. If Walpurgis wants a judgment, we will give them a demonstration of justice.
Sirzechs walked back to his throne, watching his elite Arrancars resume the dance. The ball of Las Noches continued, but now every waltz step was a rehearsal for the diplomatic war approaching. The Empire of Alabaster was ready to stop being a regional curiosity and become the center of world power.