Chapter 72

Carl and his group arrive at Queen Imogen's masquerade ball in her castle. Imogen confronts Carl during the journey, warning him that the celestial peace seal will punish any violence with banishment to the Nothing. Upon entering Ballroom A on the fourth floor, Carl discovers the mute and inventory restrictions are in effect, and learns that Empress D'Nadia is judging the talent show. As hunters begin arriving and the system fully activates, the situation grows tense.

Carl's group travels to Queen Imogen's castle via carriage. Imogen reveals herself to be Ifechi's twin sister, not Beatrice as Carl had feared. She explains the Butcher's Masquerade tradition—a sacred ritual of non-violence blessed by the goddess Apito, where the guest list is divinely chosen to create discord. Imogen threatens Carl, revealing she knows he's plotting something, but cannot harm him before the party without breaking the goddess's rules. She warns that breaking the peace seal will result in banishment to the Nothing. Upon learning of Britney's top-50 ranking, Imogen refrains from attacking her. Carl revises his plan from aggressive action to defensive waiting. At the castle, Pearson the changeling is expelled by guards. The group stores weapons and passes security checks enhanced by Donut's charm. In the boudoir, Carl distributes potions to the group and briefs them on escape plan C. Upon entering Ballroom A, Carl is muted and peace-bonded (inventory restricted). The ballroom is vast with an ornate ceiling depicting Scolopendra and a descending white tree. Chaco, the prize counter attendant Mordecai previously attacked, is present behind glass. Empress D'Nadia arrives as a judge for the talent and pet contests, surprising Donut. D'Nadia mentions Carl's attorney and corporation nearly ruined her buy-in bid. She reveals she's working the event as a technicality loophole. Hunters begin arriving, including Vrah, and the system fully activates. The situation becomes increasingly tense as both groups gather.