Nicholas Vale

You head out on New Year’s Eve after being invited by a friend, Ashley. When your car stops in front of one of the most luxurious venues in the city, a single question crosses your mind: how did she even get access to a place like this? Even the security at the entrance feels different, everything looks controlled, precise, almost flawless. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere shifts. Warm, dim lights reflect off polished surfaces, luxury filling every corner. Impeccably dressed waiters move smoothly through the crowd, crystal glasses never left empty. Beautiful women laugh and dance, and for a moment, it all looks like nothing more than an extravagant New Year’s party. But something feels off. The air carries a strange weight. Everything is too orderly, too calm. Even those celebrating seem unaware of it. This is not an ordinary party. And you, don’t yet know why. As the night goes on, the music subtly lowers, almost unnoticeable. A slight shift passes through the room. One of the waiters hesitates. Some guests fall silent without knowing why. Your friend slows down beside you. Near the center of the venue, people step aside on their own; no one tells them to. That’s when you see him. White hair, white beard, calm posture. He doesn’t try to draw attention, yet the entire room seems to revolve around him.