CHAPTER 6 : TRUE FRIEND
"Mili... Mili was the only true friend I ever made. But then why... why did it feel so good when I murdered her?" Ashwa asked, with confusion etched visibly on his face.
"It’s not your fault," the demon responded. He continued, "Every individual, whether human, beastman, demon, or even a god, has their own opinions, nature, and pleasures that make them unique to others. But some individuals are forced to suppress them because of their surroundings and societal pressures. As a result, these repressed instincts accumulate inside them, leading to unhappiness and lack of motivation over time. So stand proud, Ashwa. You did nothing wrong. You just followed your instincts like any normal person would, to achieve happiness for yourself."
“But killing is not normal.” Ashwa whispered keeping his head down.
"Why not?" The demon whispered back, a glint of a sinister smile curling the edges of his lips. His eyes flickered with a dark amusement before his brows twitched, contorting his face into a twisted mask of fury. With a sudden burst, he screamed, "Who decides what’s normal and what’s not? Me? You? No, it’s just some pathetic weaklings who establish the delusions of morality to ensure fear among the masses, to distinct them from their natural instincts, indirectly resulting in their despair and depression, taking away their freedom." He took a deep breath, the rage within him simmering beneath the surface.
The demon extended his right hand toward Ashwa and said, "Take my hand, Ashwa.” His voice was smooth, dripping with temptation. “You and I, together, will create a new world where every person, including you, can express their feelings, their instincts, without any pressure, without wearing any masks. There will be nothing wrong and nothing right, a world without any rules, a world without the vague concept of morality. Join me, Ashwa. Let me be your true friend, the friend who understands your true self, the friend who will always support your instincts, no matter what.”
Ashwa stared back at the demon with a faint smile dancing on his lips, untouched by the shadows of doubt or cynicism. His eyes shimmered with admiration, as if beholding his idol. Innocence radiated from his expression, as if he had found the acceptance he yearned for, a glimmer of hope for a brighter future ahead.
Without further delay he clasped the demon's hand, their fingers intertwining like the merging of destinies. In that moment, a surge of energy pulsed between them, an invisible bond forged in the depths of their shared resolve. Their eyes locked in an intense gaze, each reflecting the other's determination and resolve. The scene froze in time, capturing the intensity of their connection as if painted on the canvas of eternity.
Three days had passed since Ashwa’s execution.
Before the royal palace of Olympzeus, a chariot rolled to a halt. Crafted from the finest trees, its polished woodwork bore intricate carvings depicting scenes of ancient battles and majestic landscapes. Gold filigree adorned its edges, catching the sunlight and casting shimmering reflections that danced across its surface.
A figure of a wolf stepped down from it. His fur was a rich blend of silver and gray, accentuating the regal bearing that he carried with pride. Draped around his broad shoulders was a cloak of deep crimson, embroidered with intricate patterns that spoke of his ancient lineage and noble heritage. With every step, he displayed an aura of intelligence, his keen eyes scanning the area with unwavering focus. His demeanor was refined yet spirited, a hint of quirkiness evident in the subtle wag of his tail.
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As he ventured closer to the grandeur of the royal palace, his eyes were drawn to a captivating sight along the path. Amidst the lush gardens and towering trees, stood a young girl, her form lithe and graceful like that of a jungle cat. Her features bore a striking resemblance to that of a tiger, with fur-like stripes adorning her cheeks and golden eyes gleaming with determination. She was dressed in robes befitting royalty. In her hands, a simple wooden sword became an extension of her being, a tool through which she expressed her strength and determination. With every swing and parry, she danced with the elegance of a seasoned warrior, her amber eyes ablaze with fierce determination.
With a warm grin adorning his features, he strolled toward the child and remarked, “ Seems like you have become quite capable with the sword, Princess Alexia.”
Surprised yet delighted, her innocent gaze met his as she responded, "Oh! Greetings, Military Advisor Lupin. Your kind words humble me. What brings you here today, sir?"
"Ever the epitome of grace, Princess," Lupin acknowledged with a respectful bow before continuing, "Lord Griffin seeks my audience. Do you happen to know where he might be?”
"Father is currently ensconced in his office, attending to some paperwork," Alexia disclosed, her hands clasped before her with gentle poise.
As Lupin traversed the grand halls of the royal palace, his senses were enlivened by the opulent surroundings. The air was heavy with the scent of exotic flowers, their sweet fragrance mingling with the subtle aroma of polished wood and aged parchment. Sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, casting vibrant hues of crimson, azure, and gold upon the marble floors, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that danced with each step he took.
Along the walls, tapestries woven with threads of gold depicted scenes from the kingdom's rich history, each stitch telling a tale of valor and triumph. Lupin paused to admire a particularly intricate tapestry, where beastmen warriors rode into battle atop majestic creatures, their banners fluttering in the wind as they clashed with their foes.
Continuing on his journey, Lupin passed by ornate paintings adorning the corridors, each one a masterpiece in its own right. Beastmen of all shapes and sizes were immortalized on canvas, their fierce gazes and proud stances speaking of a culture steeped in tradition and strength. Lupin marveled at the skill of the artists, who had captured the essence of each creature with such vivid detail that they seemed to leap off the canvas and into the realm of the living.
Finally, Lupin reached the inner sanctum of the palace, where Lord Griffith held court. The chamber was bathed in a warm golden light, its walls adorned with gleaming tapestries and priceless works of art. At the center of it all sat Lord Griffin, his regal presence commanding the room with an aura of quiet authority.
"Greetings, my king," Lupin's voice was steady and resolute, a testament to his unwavering loyalty.
King Griffin, seated upon his throne of gold and velvet, regarded Lupin with a measured gaze, his brow furrowed with concern. "I have been waiting for you, Lupin," he intoned, his voice carrying the weight of the crown and the burdens of the realm. "I am in dire need of your suggestions, considering some disturbing events as of late."
CHAPTER 6 END
SOMETHING EXTRA BEFORE THE NEXT CHAPTER
Name : Lupin
Role : Militry advisor of Olymzeus
Age : 43
Hobbies : Reading Books and playing chess
Favorite food : Rabbit stew
Name : Alexia
Role : Princess of Olymzus, 2nd daughter of King Grifin
Age : 12
Hobby : Swordplay
Favorite food : Fruits