Far beyond Earth’s blue skies, deep within the spiraling arms of the Milky Way, exists a distant star system located approximately fifty-seven light-years from humanity’s home world. Seen from the depths of space, that stellar region resembles a cluster of diamonds scattered across black velvet — cold, ancient, and silent.

  Orbiting a star nearly as bright as the Sun is a colossal planet cloaked in a thick, luminous cloud layer. Instead of the familiar blues, browns, or yellows seen on typical gas giants, this world glows with an unusual pearlescent pink — as though dawn itself had been captured and dissolved into its atmosphere. Starlight passing through mineral-rich gases and strange compounds creates a refractive effect, making the entire planet shimmer softly like a rose-tinted crystal.

  Massive cloud bands curl slowly like drifting silk, while the upper layers suspend countless microscopic crystals that reflect light like stardust. Nearby stars appear slightly distorted through the dense atmosphere, giving the illusion that the planet wears a crown of light.

  From orbit, it looks like a gemstone floating in the cosmic night. Yet hidden within the upper cloud layers — where pressure and buoyancy reach a rare equilibrium — exist structures that defy natural law… and within that ocean of pink clouds, a vast palace floats amid storms and starlight.

  The Queen’s palace does not rest upon land, but hangs suspended within an endless sea of swirling rose-colored atmosphere. Below lie no mountains or continents — only thick layers of cloud rising like waves, moving slowly yet powerfully, glowing with shades of peach, pale violet, and molten gold under starlight. Occasionally, silver-blue lightning streaks across the deeper layers, flashing before dissolving into the luminous mist, making the sky resemble a breathing sea of cosmic cotton candy.

  The entire palace complex is stabilized by a colossal ring of force-field crystals. Thousands of energy stones embedded in a circular matrix beneath its foundation pulse rhythmically like a heartbeat, generating an anti-gravity field that supports the structure. Energy anchors extend deep into stable atmospheric layers, locking the palace against violent wind currents. Surrounding it, slow-rotating magnetic halos shimmer like invisible aureoles, neutralizing turbulence and storms.

  Its architecture is regal yet delicate, like a colossal flower blooming in the sky. Multi-tiered domes cast from milky crystal tinged with rose glow softly under light. Slender spires rise like crystalline thorns, their pale metallic edges engraved with ancient runic formations. Broad curved balconies resemble flower petals, opening toward the shifting cloud sea. Bridges connecting palace wings are not built of stone — but of solidified light, transparent beneath one’s feet, each step sending ripples of faint radiance outward.

  Inside the grand hall, the ceiling stretches like a miniature sky, where suspended nebula spheres slowly rotate, mimicking the movement of atmospheric currents beyond. The floor is paved with violet quartz and rose gemstones, beneath which streams of energy glow and flow. The Queen’s throne rests upon a floating dais, backed by a veil of luminous mist that constantly shifts shape with magical fluctuations.

  Semi-translucent corridors extend through hanging gardens suspended in midair. Vegetation here does not grow from soil but clings to stabilized gas pockets — flowers glow, leaves are thin as crystal, drawing energy from the environment. Cascading “cloudfalls” spill over garden edges into the layers below, dissolving into sparkling mist. Energy beings shaped like birds and fish drift freely, trailing faint lines of light behind them like brushstrokes across the sky.

  Further beyond lies the royal bath chamber — a circular sanctuary open beneath a half-dome roof, where a gemstone basin is suspended by a force-field ring. Water does not flow from spouts but condenses from energetic vapor, warm and softly radiant. Crystalline fragrance fills the space, blending with steam into a shimmering veil that makes the chamber appear suspended within a star cloud.

  The entire floating palace functions like a living organism — glowing, breathing, pulsing — hanging serenely within an endless ocean of clouds. Those who stand upon its balconies feel not that they are standing above the sky… but drifting within it.

  Within a translucent hanging garden of crystalline leaves and luminous blossoms gently swaying in stabilized air currents, the Queen reclines upon a soft pink cloud resembling silk. The cloud gathers into a crescent form, lifting her body a short distance above the surface, emitting a gentle glow like sunset dissolving into mist.

  Two attendants stand on either side, each holding a large fan crafted from pearlescent pink feathers with crystal-inlaid handles. With each slow movement, a cool breeze carrying a faintly sweet fragrance spreads through the air, stirring the drifting luminous vapors — making the entire scene appear like a dream suspended in the heavens.

  The Queen leisurely enjoyed translucent green grapes that looked like crystal. When she bit into them, they produced a crisp sound like condensed sugar shattering. She gently closed her eyes, savoring the sweetness spreading across her tongue. Her soft yet authoritative voice spoke:

  – “I wonder when that mayor will finally deliver the goods. Any further delay will affect my son’s business.”

  A young woman with a seductive figure entered, dressed in a pastel purple women’s suit. The lace-trimmed blazer paired with a short pleated skirt highlighted her long, straight legs in golden high heels. The sound of her heels lightly tapped against the floor before stopping. It was Hedy, Queen Stella’s assistant, who bowed respectfully:

  – “Your Majesty, everything has been prepared. We will depart according to your schedule.”

  Stella slowly straightened her posture, her gaze turning toward the distant orbit of Earth. Her voice deepened, tinged with an unspoken heaviness:

  – “I only worry that I might run into him. Not out of hatred… but because a wrong choice in the past pushed everything too far. Since then, no one has stood on the same side anymore.”

  Hedy understood that sorrow well, but some laws could never be reversed. She spoke gently in reassurance:

  – “Please do not dwell on it. No one can defy fate. I will double-check everything to ensure the journey is safe and smooth.”

  ***

  At that moment on Earth, inside one of the most famous casinos in District 1, Alistair Thorne was giving Huy a tour of the facilities.

  The space unfolded like a palace of light and wealth. The high domed ceiling held massive tiered crystal chandeliers, each prism catching the light and scattering it into a warm golden glow across the grand hall. Marble-paneled walls interwoven with polished metallic accents reflected passing movements into streaks of light. The thick carpet beneath their feet was soft and embroidered with royal patterns in metallic thread, making footsteps almost soundless.

  Gaming areas were arranged in circular sections, separated by transparent glass partitions and finely carved wood featuring classical motifs. Each table resembled a miniature stage — focused lighting, impeccably dressed dealers, and sharp, precise card movements. Hundreds of Baccarat, Roulette, Poker, and Blackjack tables operated continuously; multicolored chips stacked into columns clinked together with dry, crisp sounds. Electronic displays, odds boards, and running numbers pulsed constantly, creating the sense of money flowing in an endless rhythm.

  The VIP area was elevated onto a separate floor, with softer lighting, thick leather seating, and wider table spacing for privacy. Staff moved swiftly and silently, silver trays carrying cigars, liquor, and chilled towels.

  A long bar stretched along one wing of the hall, its solid wood surface polished to a depth resembling dark water at night. Behind it stood multi-tiered glass shelves displaying premium liquors such as Whisky, Cognac, Vodka, Rum, Gin, Dry Martini, and Champagne.

  Bottle bodies gleamed like cut crystal, reflecting light like gemstones. Rows of inverted glassware hung neatly, flaring into tiny sparks with every passing glimmer of light. Further beyond lay a five-star standard kitchen operating behind glass, where top chefs prepared custom menus for VIP guests.

  The entire space exuded an exclusive upper-class atmosphere — where everything was polished, controlled, and smoothly operated around a single axis: Power and wagers.

  Huy could barely stand steady before the lavish spectacle stretching before him. The lights, the clinking chips, the scent of alcohol and expensive perfume blended into the air, making him feel as though he had stepped into another world — one that shimmered beyond his reach. Born into poverty and accustomed to cramped, noisy gambling dens, this was the first time in his life he had stood in such a luxurious space. His heart pounded with both awe and a rising, unspoken craving.

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  Alistair Thorne clearly noticed the flicker of ambition in his eyes. He approached the bar and instructed the bartender:

  – “Prepare a non-alcoholic drink for Huy, and teach him how to serve guests.”

  The bartender began mixing skillfully. Alistair turned and called:

  – “Come here. The bartender will prepare your drink and show you how to serve it.”

  Huy immediately stepped forward, eager:

  – “Yes, please teach me.”

  Behind Alistair Thorne’s polite smile, a glint of calculating malice flashed in his eyes.

  At the Gothic mansion, Erion and the others continued to closely monitor everything unfolding in the second preliminary round of the representative model competition. The signal transmission remained stable. At this moment, Nicolas and the shareholders were on their lunch break, while discussions on the other end of the connection continued regarding how to properly welcome the Queen.

  Yin rested her chin on her hand and sighed softly:

  – “His mother is a Queen? That means he also has royal blood.”

  Erion smirked:

  – “Everyone here has royal blood anyway. But royal or commoner — we deal with them all the same.”

  Chen, already used to such scenarios, spoke calmly:

  – “Criminals with powerful backing often have their families use money, influence, and connections to escape punishment when they’re caught. Sometimes, innocent people are even made to take the blame.”

  Din let out a scoff:

  – “Some even fake their deaths and change their names to live new lives.”

  Hearing that, Trang glanced toward C?u D?ng’s villa:

  – “Like Uncle D?ng’s family. They refused to admit their crimes. I even had to take the blame for Anh Th?’s theft, bearing the stigma of being a thief for five years. That’s why after I was driven out, I couldn’t find a job and had to turn to selling street food just to survive.”

  Din’s fingers continued flying across the laptop keyboard, his voice firm:

  – “Rest assured, Princess. Their family’s tragedy is coming soon. This time, it will be heavy enough… to bring everything down.”

  ***

  At C?u D?ng’s villa, the whole family was having lunch. M? Linh glanced at the wall clock and muttered irritably:

  – “That boy probably ran off to have fun. What kind of health checkup takes this long? Just wait until he gets back.”

  Anh Ph??ng was equally harsh, filled with disdain:

  – “Sister Th? really has no taste, ending up with someone from the bottom of society. If it were me, never.”

  Anh Th? felt her pride sting, irritation rising:

  – “Easy for you to say. Watch it — your turn might come next.”

  Anh Ph??ng maintained her arrogant tone:

  – “Dream on. Guys like your husband would be crossed off my list immediately. They wouldn’t even qualify to carry my shoes. I only deal with wealthy elites like our family. You didn’t set clear standards, so you got easily fooled by some nobody.”

  C?u D?ng grew increasingly irritated by his daughter’s foolishness, allowing herself to become a stepping stone for others. Looking at Anh Th?, anger surged within him as he gritted his teeth:

  – “Look at your sisters. They listen to their parents and set clear standards. If they date someone, he must have something. If they marry, he must meet certain conditions. But you? A few sweet words and you’re head over heels — and now you’ve dragged shame upon your mother and me. Proud of yourself?”

  Amid the tense meal, Anh Tú quietly ate his portion. Though he was the eldest son-in-law, he always stayed out of his wife’s family arguments unless directly involved. At this moment, his mind held only one clear thought: to find a way to use Huy — indirectly pushing this guilty family toward bankruptcy and total ruin.

  At this moment, on the rooftop café of a high-rise building, the open space was flooded with midday sunlight. The sky stretched endlessly blue above, while strong winds swept through decorative potted plants and rows of cream-colored parasols. The light wooden floor reflected the sun’s glow, and rattan tables and chairs were arranged neatly with generous spacing. Beyond the glass railing lay a full view of the bustling city below.

  Professor Charles gently stirred his iced black coffee, the ice cubes clinking softly against the glass. Sitting across from him were Join and Mary, both watching him with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

  Join went straight to the point:

  – “Professor… who exactly are you? I remember when you saw Demon King Satan in the mirror — you weren’t afraid at all. In fact, you looked impressed.”

  Mary added:

  – “You even recognized us as witches. A human wouldn’t be able to do that.”

  Charles smiled faintly, his gaze drifting toward the sunlit garden beyond:

  – “He and I have been close friends since childhood. When I was bullied and beaten by a group of classmates, he was the one who stepped in to punish them. He also awakened the hidden shield deep within my soul and taught me to resist — to fight back. He said that if I wanted to protect the people I love, I must first learn to protect myself.”

  Join narrowed her eyes, still doubtful:

  – “So that friend… is Demon King Satan, right?”

  Charles nodded gently:

  – “Yes. My soulmate friend. We were separated for several centuries and have only just reunited.”

  Mary continued to watch him intently:

  – “Then… who are you?”

  Charles looked at his two students and answered calmly:

  – “The force that stands opposite to the darkness of demons.”

  Both of them stared at each other in shock:

  – “You’re an angel? Oh my God… how is that possible?”

  For the first time, Charles seemed truly relieved. He lifted his glass and took a sip of iced coffee:

  – “There are many unexpected and fascinating things in this world. Just because you haven’t seen them doesn’t mean they can’t exist.”

  Join asked cautiously:

  – “The two mooncakes yesterday… they were from him, weren’t they?”

  Charles nodded:

  – “He put a great deal of effort into that gift. Since you’re Canadian, the cakes were designed with your national symbols — even the fillings matched your traditional flavors.”

  Mary lowered her head slightly, a trace of regret on her face:

  – “I used to think he was truly evil, but I didn’t expect that…”

  Charles smiled, his eyes holding a deeper meaning:

  – “Those who refuse to live according to the majority’s expectations are often labeled as villains and accused of selfishness.”

  Join nodded in understanding:

  – “That’s true. I’ve experienced it myself. People who can’t manipulate you for their benefit will try to push you down into the abyss — turning you into the villain while they play the victim.”

  Charles continued stirring his coffee, the sound of ice striking glass echoing coldly:

  – “His philosophy of life goes against the world. Though many envy and resent him, what’s admirable is that he lives true to himself. It is difference that creates extraordinary individuals.”

  On the Dark Planet, dawn had risen high. Pale violet sunlight spread across the vast ancient forest, casting a mystical hue over every layer of leaves. A thin mist still lingered on the grass, and the silence was so deep that even the wind whispering through the ancient tree trunks could be clearly heard.

  The butler and the nobleman stood quietly, observing the morning scenery. The nobleman glanced toward the abandoned production factory in the distance before speaking in a steady voice:

  – “Contact Nicolas and tell him to prepare his people to receive the goods.”

  The butler frowned slightly:

  – “When will you open the spatial gate?”

  The nobleman replied calmly:

  – “We don’t possess spatial abilities, so we must use the energy from this planet’s black core. Although the Royal House of Satan currently holds it, we have an octopus tentacle within that family. Obtaining the energy will be as easy as turning over one’s hand.”

  The butler showed a hint of concern:

  – “Be careful. I have a feeling this time won’t be as easy as before.”

  The nobleman remained composed, a faint smile on his lips:

  – “No need to worry. Everything is within my calculations.”

  ***

  Inside the Royal Palace of Satan, Queen Seraphina sat before an exquisitely carved wooden dressing table, its mirror reflecting the warm glow of crystal lights. Her close maid Lyly stood behind her, gently brushing her long silky hair.

  Before a large gold-framed mirror adorned with vine and angel motifs, she sat upright on a high-backed velvet chair. The thick mirror frame curved at the corners, its glass deep and clear like a lake, reflecting candlelight from the multi-branched crystal chandelier above, forming a warm honey-colored halo around her face. The polished dark wooden table gleamed like a mirror, its small drawers fitted with bronze handles engraved with antique patterns.

  On the table lay a tray of handmade Eastern cosmetics: a white porcelain container of Hue royal powder, an eyebrow brush resting on a jade stand, two lipsticks in red and orange, along with blush and pearl finishing powder. All were from the Hue royal cosmetic brand of Vietnam — simple yet refined, standing out within the luxurious surroundings.

  She opened the container and took out a small ivory powder pellet, shaped like a flower bud. Its dry, smooth surface carried a faint scent of milk and herbs. Using a silk puff, she gently pressed and rotated it over the powder, letting a fine layer adhere to the surface. Each application onto her skin was slow and precise — the powder settled like mist, naturally absorbing oil while leaving her complexion bright and soft without heaviness.

  She then picked up a thin brush, dipped it into ash-grey crushed shell powder, and drew her eyebrows in long, curved strokes as sharp as calligraphy ink, giving her gaze a dignified depth.

  Next, she applied a layer of red lipstick, smooth as velvet. The translucent reddish-orange hue caught the light, standing out against the powdered skin — a classic and elegant beauty blending the grace of Hue’s royal court with Western royal charisma.

  Tilting her face slightly, she admired her smooth, youthful complexion:

  – “The Lord truly is a thoughtful husband. This Hue royal powder creates such beautiful makeup. A simple gift from Earth, yet of remarkable quality. I like it very much.”

  From outside came the voice of a guard:

  – “Your Majesty, the Princess Consort has arrived.”

  Seraphina calmly picked up her blush brush and lightly applied it to her cheeks:

  – “Let her in.”

  Then she glanced behind her. — “You may leave.” Lyly bowed and withdrew.

  As the door opened, the maid had barely stepped out when Princess Sophia entered hastily:

  – “Elder Sister, they’ve begun opening the spatial gate, but they require our energy source.”

  Seraphina remained focused on her reflection, her voice slow and growing colder:

  – “So there is a spy within the family — none other than that one. We shall act normal to avoid alarming them. Let them take it… because I want to know the exact location of the spatial gate between the two planets.”

  Sophia immediately understood and bowed:

  – “Yes, I will continue monitoring.”

  Seraphina set down the blush brush and put on her diamond earrings, their light shimmering:

  – “Tell the Lord they are preparing to deliver the goods. Inform Arian to continuously scan signals via satellite and radar. We are about to catch a big catch.”