image [https://i.imgur.com/eY2gF5l.png]
Arbious's carriage reached nearer, announcing his arrival at Princess Anna's estate. A magnificent marble structure of Romanesque design, siMilar to that of the palace, adorned with grand golden gates stood before them, on its walls, proudly displaying the banners of the empire. As the carriage came even nearer, the gates swung open, Princess Anna emerged, surrounded by her formidable escort of knights. It was from a distance from which Arbious discerned that these were no ordinary soldiers but wielders of formidable magical prowess, all possessing fourth-tier capabilities, with one among them boasting a formidable sixth-tier mastery. Mages were a particular concern for Arbious, as their abilities allowed them to detect his aura, even through his clever disguises. As far as he was concerned however, these soldiers were merely her own escort.
The carriage approached, and Fear, Arbious's patient companion, observed his master chanting unfamiliar spells. After completing the incantations, Arbious turned his gaze toward Fear, prompting a question. "This Arch Mage Mallus Rex was quite a deceptive individual. I'm sure you've realized it by now from his text."
"Deceptive? You mean his quest for immortality?"
"Yes... Many humans consider those who are immortal as demons or witches. Not that they are wrong." Arbious replied, a hint of sarcasm and irony in his voice.
"Is there a reason why one shouldn't seek immortality? Were his ideas really that flawed?" Questioned Fear, who was not akin to the realities of this world yet. He had grown pampered, and from his circumstances, it would be arrogant to ask him to know such things. Thinking of this, Arbious wittedly replied, "Well, they weren't exactly flawed. I'm sure you'll get to that point eventually, but he did attempt to convert human souls to lengthen his own life. That is black magic."
"I'm still unaware of what souls are."
"Keep reading then," Arbious said as the carriage came to a halt. Dorros opened the doors of the carriage for them, allowing Princess Anna and her escort to greet him. "Lord Arbious, you must be weary from your travels. I've heard you've been sitting a lot more lately," she chuckled, amused at Arbious.
"Yeah, yeah," Arbious replied, attempting to establish common ground. "This here is Fear, my assistant."
"Oh, I thought this was the new heir you had assigned."
Fear looked up at Arbious, but he did not return the gaze. "Arbos is currently away at the moment."
"Oh is that so? I would have loved to meet him in person. A shame he could not be here then." She replied, yet undeterred. "I really think fondly of you because of what you did for him. I had my people look into the matter. You saved him from Dorma Rhode. Of that, I am grateful."
"Why are you grateful? It's not as if I've done anything for you." Arbious questioned, casting a suspicious glance.
There was a bright look of hope in her eyes, yet from those very eyes shined something that Arbious could only decern as naiveté, or rather, foolishness. "Those in Dorma Rhode suffer from prejudice and injustice. When I heard of you aiding that boy, I changed my mind about you." She replied with a smile on her face. "And the fact that you also took in Fear and his sister speaks volumes to your character."
"Princess Anna," one of the knights in her escort, clad in shining silver armor with a helmet resembling the head of a lion, spoke. "Perhaps we should go inside."
"Lord Arbious, I understand that you have been in the carriage in some time, however, the matters we are about to discuss are intense and may require a change of atmosphere. Would you do me the honor of joining me in my estate? We can continue our discussions in a more serene setting," she proposed with a diplomatic smile.
Arbious, his expression inscrutable, considered the offer for a moment before finally nodding in agreement. "Very well, Princess Anna. Lead the way."
Anna gestured towards the ornate double doors leading to her estate, and with a subtle but confident sway of her gown, she started walking. The guards, who had been stationed outside, fell into formation as the trio proceeded down the opulent halls of her magnificent estate.
As they entered her estate, the atmosphere shifted to a more tranquil ambiance. Soft music echoed in the background, and the fragrance of delicate flowers wafted through the air. The estate, adorned with exquisite tapestries and elegant furnishings, reflected the affluence of not only the royal family but also herself.
Arbious, ever perceptive, absorbed the details of Princess Anna's estate. As he gleaned new information from the opulence around him, a thought nagged at his mind. While the carefully selected surroundings exuded tranquility and serenity, he pondered whether the reverse could also be true. Surely, this could be crucial when attempting to improve Hellfire Citadel.
image [https://i.imgur.com/7fgH3qs.png]
They found themselves in a private office, Princess Anna's sanctum. Along the way, Arbious gleaned new insights into the Southern Empire's princess. She exuded opulence, and her residence was a testament to wealth and aesthetic taste. Despite being a human, she possessed a certain allure. Seated in the appointed chairs, a table stood before them, devoid of any adornments. Arbious and Fear occupied adjacent seats, while Anna sat alone, a wide smile gracing her face. A picture of her father was hung on the wall, a old yet humble man. He did not appear to be a demi human, though many claimed he was.
As the doors closed, Arbious inquired, "Why did you seek us out?"
Should I place a portrait of myself within Hellfire Citadel...? I do like the notion, yet that would be a feeble attempt to display my grandeur. My sole presence should eclipse this trivial matter. Not to mention that after a second consideration, the whole act is rather absurd...
"Isn't it obvious? I know who you are." Anna spoke yet maintaining her composure and graceful smile.
"What do you mean?" Arbious asked, mentally bracing for confrontation.
"Well, you are the Demon God, aren't you?"
Of course, he could not acknowledge that she had unraveled his identity, instead, Arbious leaned back, prompting her to explain herself.
"When I first saw you, I could sense it, you know? The aura of malice... that's why I came. But that's also when I saw your eyes... they shined like rubies in that darkness."
Unsatisfied, Arbious remained silent, while Fear stayed still. Noticing their reserved stance, Anna pressed on. "I delved into your name. It's taboo to adopt a Demon's name, let alone their God's. Doing so brings a curse upon an individual. Yet, you don't seem to suffer any consequences. You thought you could get away with it, and you did. The final revelation I sought was that army you managed to amass. Tell me, are they undead?"
Arbious grinned. "And if they are?"
"That would make you an enemy of our kingdom."
"So, you desire war?"
"No. No, no! Not war. If we were to engage in war with someone like you, the outcome is apparent. Our kingdom is too feeble to face a demon of your caliber."
"What, then, do you want from me?" Arbious questioned.
"You came seeking it. Am I wrong?"
Arbious remained silent.
"I may be of assistance on the matter. Of course, that is if we can strike a bargain."
"What sort of bargain? How is it that you trust me even knowing of what you already know."
"In my perspective, the demonic forces have never besieged the South. While I've heard of the atrocities attributed to you, I can't unequivocally brand you as evil, as others do. As far as I see it, you've gone out of your way to assist a demi-human in need, and that, in my eyes, clears your name."
She sighed faintly and confessed, "To be completely honest, I gathered my forces here to intimidate you. My holy casters, my soldiers—all seemed ineffective. Even my advisors were against inviting you. They warned that you would be my downfall, yet your willingness to engage in this conversation alone strengthens my belief that you may not be as malevolent as they claim. In light of this, I propose a deal. I may not possess what you directly seek, but I do have a harmonic crystal. In exchange, spare our kingdom from your wrath when the time comes."
Arbious chuckled and erupted into a maniacal laughter that sent chills through the air. "You want me to spare this kingdom in exchange for a measly stone? You are out of your mind."
She remained silent.
"You claim to know who I am, but you disregard history itself, you fool. I'd kill you right here without a second thought. This kingdom, no, this world will burn under my boots of war."
"And to what end exactly?" She refuted. "What enjoyment is there in ruling a kingdom of fire and ash? You seek conquest? No. That's not it. You know exactly what you're doing. Your goal is not to conquer. All you seek is power. Yes. It's power," she continued. "You steal the power of even your own soldiers; the demon race weakens every day because you are siphoning all of their mana for your personal use. It's not just power you want; it's all done to satisfy the one thing you could never let go of..."
Arbious's face grew darker as he became silent.
"It's pride, isn't it? When you created the cardinals of sins, you let go of all emotions except for pride. You were too prideful to do that, and so, you seek to fill the endless abyss within you with magic."
Arbious rose from his seat and headed to the door while she continued, "I've seen right through you; your actions justify my theories. Every move you've made leads to you becoming the greatest, yet through all of this, you choose to take a human form and walk among us. Why? Because you do not discriminate based on wealth, for you are the undoubtedly, one of most powerful beings in this world, and that knowledge feeds this ever-growing abyss of pride within you. Yet, what I do not understand through all of this is why even have warfare when you lead your soldiers to their deaths. Could it be that you enjoy watching your own forces get crushed? Are you seeking maximum casualties from both sides?"
With the door locked, Arbious turned around. Fear and Anna both felt the room as his Arbious's darkness released. The guards knocked, but the imposing strength of the door prevented anyone from entering. With his magic, Arbious raised Anna into the air, a magical force choking her while his approaching footsteps resonated in the room. Fear remained silent, watching Arbious draw nearer, with each step, his form growing larger and more imposing.
"Princess Anna... You are quite the observer, aren't you?"
The guards continued to knock on the door, yet the door did not budge. It was locked, but by magic as well. Reinforced tenfold to stand any attack from the guards. "Princess Anna! Are you okay!"
With a demonstration of absolute control of magic, he released Anna. She fell to the ground, gasping for air, as he stood before her. "I thought you were a fool, but now I see that you have me cornered... A gamble to be sure; I could kill you here and now, but to do so, I would be condemned, and my quest would be for nothing."
She lifted her head, facing the same glowing eyes she did back then, but only now to see something sinister within, "Does that mean we have a deal?"
"What makes you think I would keep my end?"
"Your word is all I need. You are far too prideful to go back on your promises. Isn't that right?"
Fear trembled in the presence of Arbious, but Anna displayed no hint of trepidation. Confronting a God, a Demon God no less and the specter of death itself, she stood unwavering, resolute in her gaze. If nothing else, Fear had gained profound respect for the princess.
She is serious about this... The proposal is certainly intriguing, but what does she gain out of this? Surely, she isn't doing everything to prevent her nations from certain ruins...
"If we strike this deal, you must understand one small thing."
I can't believe I'm considering this.
"And what is that?"
"Demons will rule over the humans and demi humans of the Southern Empire. The results of the trials would be nullified, and I will rule as an absolute sovereign."
"I figured you would say all of that, and I am absolutely fine with those conditions under the terms that my people are not harmed by your forces in any way."
"I cannot guarantee everyone's safety under the invasion."
"Why is that?"
"Demons bear hatred towards all other races."
"You are their God, are you not? Surely you can control a few imps. If you do not accept my deal, this quest of yours would be impossible to accomplish. You know that; otherwise, you would not have spared me. Time is running short and the laboratory you seek may be lost in the sands of time forever."
She knows... How is that possible?
She stood up from her knees, her breath still ragged. The guards continued to knock on the door, only for her to finally respond to them. "I'm fine! Return to your posts."
With the guards obeying her command, she now faced the imposing figure before her. "With a demonic portal opened, you could lead your conquest and have a steady threshold in the south. It's an absolute victory before you, all you have to do is take it."
"And your people?" Arbious questioned. "Will they be fine with this bargain of yours?"
"As long as they are alive, why would they object? However, to ensure their safety, I will humbly request that you make me the voice of the people. You will assign me the power to directly communicate with you and give me the authority to lead them."
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
"And Franz?"
"He is a lost cause. I'm sure you realize that by now."
"He is your brother."
"A brother only in name. A gambling addict, a fool, and a murderer he is."
"A murderer?"
"Do not claim ignorance with me. I know full well of your combined efforts to assassinate..." Her eyes darted off to Fear, realizing that what she was going to say would hurt him the most. Arbious realized this as well and hoped to skip the subject. "Anyhow, I know of your dealings. Do not take me for a fool. I may be young, but my father, and my uncle taught me everything to make for a wise ruler. I am confident I can lead; I know I can. It is my duty to do so and my duty to ensure the prosperity of my people, at any cost."
With her agreement, I can promptly set my plans into motion. A full-scale demonic takeover of the south, facilitated by the power of the harmonic crystal, would be a straightforward endeavor. The royal selection would lose its relevance, and the prospect of having a nation of humans within my ranks is not appealing. Initially, I aimed to turn the south into a puppet state, but now I have the chance to establish an actual empire. This opportunity cannot be lost; I must seize it.
"Where is this harmonic crystal now?"
Her eyes sparkled with intrigue as Arbious posed the question, yet her demeanor remained steadfast. "Does that mean you agree to my conditions?"
Arbious took a moment, deep in contemplation as he gazed down at her. After a brief pause, he spoke, "Could you give me a moment to consider this in private?"
"Certainly." Her smile brimmed with anticipation as she nodded, gracefully making her way to the door. Outside, her concerned followers awaited, their expressions reflecting the earlier commotion. She cast a reassuring glance back into the room, observing Arbious lost in thought over the implications of her request. With that, the doors closed, enclosing Arbious and Fear within.
As she exited, Fear stood steadfast by his master's side. Despite the revelation that Arbious was the Demon God, it failed to dissuade him. Having only heard tales of the demon god's malevolence, much like everyone else in the south, Princess Anna's influence left a different impression. Perhaps Arbious wasn't as evil as many claimed; after all, he had aided Fear's recovery.
image [https://i.imgur.com/lhqCDcB.png]
Message, Alpos.
A spell tethered Alpos's subconscious to Arbious.
"Master? How may I, your unhumble servant, serve you?"
Peering through Alpos's eyes, Arbious surveyed the construction site that Alpos was overseeing. "What is that?" Arbious inquired.
"My lord, recognizing our vulnerabilities during your absence, I deemed it prudent to fortify the citadel itself. We are gathering rare minerals deep underground to bolster the grand citadel's defenses," Alpos explained.
"But you mean the Grand Palace itself?" Arbious sought clarification.
"Yes, my lord. Not only are we reinforcing it, but we also aim to increase its height, enlarging the tower in your image to showcase your greatness and instill fear in the hearts of potential attackers. Moreover, my lord, our research has borne fruit, and I am most proud of presenting to you, our findings."
"And what would that be?" Arbious inquired.
"The Hellfire Crystals, born of your magical powers, are abundant in the depths underground. We have amassed a considerable quantity and fashioned a new weapon – the Judgement of Hellfire. It serves as a long-range defensive artillery, effective against both air and ground forces, capable of annihilating enemy troops and their leaders," Alpos explained with a triumphant grin. "While the project took time, the artillery has a limited range. Therefore, I took it upon myself to adorn the grand palace of the Hellfire Citadel with its presence. It shall remain at the top, operated by our most loyal acolytes."
Hellfire crystals? What...?
"I see. That is excellent news, Alpos. With the firepower of such a crystal, we should gain the upper hand."
"My lord, the crystal's attack speed is somewhat slow, but we are actively working to strengthen that aspect as well."
"It will suffice for now, I am sure."
"As you will it, my lord."
"Might I ask, how did you acquire these resources? I do not recall you having the means to access the depths of the Hellfire Barrens."
"My lord. To enhance our discoveries, a crucial detail we unearthed is that the Hellfire Crystals are inherently unstable. They possess explosive properties upon contact. Leveraging this knowledge, we harnessed their explosive potential to excavate deep into the ground. Presently, we have a mineshaft that extends 190 meters deep, secure within the protective walls of sector two."
...
"I'm at a loss for words, Alpos. Truly a remarkable achievement."
"Thank you, my lord. Now, might I inquire why you have contacted me?"
"Firstly, Alpos, I want to clarify that what transpired during our meeting should not be taken personally. It was merely a strategic maneuver because Morgana was present."
"Yes, I despise her. I'm not sure why you keep her around, my lord."
Arbious could sense Alpos's resentment towards Morgana the moment her name was mentioned. "Well, her cultists operate in the north, preventing them from joining the fray. Her expertise is a necessary addition to our arsenal."
"My lord,"
"Yes, yes, I'm getting to it. I contacted you because I have a direct question for you. I intend to open a gateway in the Southern Empire."
"... What?!?" Alpos questioned, in a sudden burst of excitement and confusion.
"Yes, it appears that I possess the capability to create a rift between Hell and the Overworld. However, there's a risk of immediate counterattack from the angels."
"So you aim to defend the gateway... In other words, secure its continuity."
"Yes. How soon can you prepare our forces?"
"Within hours, under your command. However, I must inquire about the method you plan to employ to open such a gateway?"
"About that, Alpos, that's precisely why I reached out to you. I've discovered a way to obtain a Harmonic Crystal. Such crystals have been elusive since Mallus shattered all remaining ones. However, the individual offering it demands my assurance that the denizens of the Southern Empire won't suffer harm during our invasion."
"Absurd! Making deals with humans?"
"I know, but it seems to be the only viable path forward."
"Why not deceive her?"
"You know I cannot."
A moment of silence enveloped them as Alpos pondered the situation. "Considering the circumstances, the benefits of the deal are too great to pass up. Perhaps we can find a loophole within the contract that allows for their extermination?"
"Hmm, possibly."
"I have another suggestion, my lord. We can accept the deal, but it's too risky to open a gateway immediately. I propose we preserve the crystal until we're adequately prepared. In the meantime, accepting this deal would enable you to personally govern the Southern Empire as a puppet state, shielded from demonic invasion."
Arbious, initially focused on short-term gains, now saw the larger picture thanks to Alpos.
"I see. The crystal is too precious to surrender. Very well, I shall accept her offer."
"My lord I am honored to have you as the channel for my decisions. If anything troubles you, please don't hesitate to share. In another notion, my lord, we could potentially gain further from this endeavor. We could use the humans as our shields to defend the gateway and the city itself during a siege. At the very least, it would complicate matters for the invading forces when they realize the city they are besieging has humans within."
"Mmm... possibly... I have a lot to consider Alpos, however, I will take that into consideration. I shall see you soon."
"Yes, my lord, your wisdom knows no bounds, I am confident that your judgement will strengthen us in the near future."
"Alpos, begin gathering and arming our forces. I will issue my command when the time is right."
"Yes, my lord, it shall be done."
image [https://i.imgur.com/Qj0qq7o.png]
With the conveyed message, Arbious glanced at Fear who promptly watched his master converse with himself about a demonic invasion. Exuding confidence, Arbious signaled for Fear to invite Anna once more.image [https://i.imgur.com/7fgH3qs.png]
Anna entered the room, accompanied by Fear. "Have you decided yet?" she inquired, settling into a seat before him.
"I have. I give you my word that my demons will not harm any humans or demi humans in any way in the Southern Empire."
"Not just your demons, all demons."
"Yes, all demons. Whatever. Where is the crystal?"
"Hmm..." Anna mused. "Actually, about that."
"..."
"Yeah, I'll give it to you once I'm satisfied. I want to ensure I'm placing it in the right hands. Plus, we're still going through with the trial."
"We are? What do you mean, 'we'?"
"We, as in a combined effort. The Harmonic Crystal is a national treasure bestowed upon the ruler of the South. It can only be obtained through the selection."
"I never heard any of this," Arbious added, glancing at Fear.
"It's true, my lord. It's written in the codex."
"..."
"..."
Arbious seethed in anger deep inside, feeling the sting of betrayal from the unexpected turn of events. However, he couldn't back down at this point; he had no choice but to push his agendas forward, now fueled by increased motivation.
"That complicates things. I'm sure you realize this, then, Anna? With your inability to provide me with a Harmonic Crystal, I fail to see why you are of any use to me."
"Because there is a special ceremony that only I know how to carry out. The Harmonic Crystal is not so easily taken. I would not attempt this without a sort of insurance for myself. You will aid me in becoming the next queen, and in return, once I have what I need, you will get your end."
"..." Arbious remained silent, his mind calculating the implications of Anna's proposition and the potential consequences of his next move.
Well, no reason to rush it here, my forces are not yet ready anyway.
"Lord Arbious, to fulfill our contract and in pursuit of our shared goals, I request your personal assistance in taking down the great necromancer to the north. As you are aware, he is the root cause of the land's corruption. Our combined forces will march north, ideally tonight at the latest. I require your expertise to defeat the lich."
"But you've amassed a considerable force already."
"Yes, that may be true. However, I wouldn't seek your help if I didn't deem my forces capable of overcoming the adversary before us. He is a formidable necromancer, of that I am certain."
Still, if possible, I would like to have this necromancer on my side.
"And when do we depart?"
"Now, if you are willing."
"And your escort?"
"Not mine, yours. I will not participate personally; however, my commander will carry my banner in my stead."
"Your commander...?"
"Allow me to introduce to you," she spoke, standing and gesturing towards the door, "Marchioness Ellis Steiner."
As the door opened, a figure emerged. Short-statured, clad in dark robes and a hood, the girl possessed an air of a skilled assassin. Fear's eyes lit up, though he remained silent, while Arbious, unimpressed, glanced at the daggers hoisted around her waist. "Marchioness Ellis is the commander of my forces, one who operates in the shadows. She is a skilled tactician, and I am confident she will fulfill any requirements you may have in taking down the necromancer."
...
Ellis approached, her footsteps silent, and nodded gracefully. Underneath her hood, Arbious caught a glimpse of her for a brief second—purple eyes and a smooth, young face.
"This is your commander? Don't make me laugh."
Her vigilant eyes shot daggers at Arbious, expressing clear hostility. Seeing the tension, Anna quickly intervened. "This is not a joke! She truly is exceptional! Give her a chance; I'm sure you'll grow to appreciate her."
When she uttered the second part, it was a subtle plea for Arbious to give Ellis a chance, a sentiment he picked up on. Soon, Ellis removed her hood. "I am Ellis."
Arbious's smirk faded. What kind of answer was that? Short and direct, as if she cared little for the situation.
"Ellis, you know what must be done, but to ensure your safety, I am going to have Arbious accompany you on your journey."
"My queen," Ellis replied, her tone devoid of emotion. "I do not require help to assassinate a mere necromancer. Have you no faith in my capabilities?"
"It is my faith that leads me to send him with you."
She turned to Arbious and added, "I expect you to be of assistance to her, but know that she theoretically outranks you. It is your chance to make a favorable impression on the higher echelons of society."
Higher class? she's dressed like a common beggar.
"Marchioness Steiner? Or shall I simply call you Ellis? I would be glad to accompany and aid you in taking down the necromancer."
"Mhm. Ellis is fine," she replied, glancing at Anna. "Miss Anna, the forces are ready to depart. Shall I have him assigned a separate carriage?"
It was evident she asked this to avoid being in close quarters with him. Arbious noticed, as did Anna. However, to Arbious, it hinted at how little Ellis understood his strength.
"I would prefer all of you to go with the preparations already made. If my brother reaches the necromancer first, we fail the first trial. We can't have that happen."
"Very well, my queen," Ellis added, turning to Arbious and pointing her finger. "You heard our orders! Let's get moving!"
Arbious stood, and alongside him rose Fear. "Princess Anna, I will hold you true to your word then."
"And so will I."
Arbious and Fear followed Ellis out the doors. As they left, Anna's voice echoed, wishing them good luck.
Exiting the room, Arbious assessed the situation. Ellis seemed focused on the task at hand, while Fear exuded a mix of determination and caution. The trio proceeded down the hallway, heading towards the awaiting forces and the impending mission against the great necromancer. As they approached, the grand gates of gold swung wide, granting them access to the awaiting escort.
Two individuals stood out among the escort, appearing to be hired arms with an aura that suggested they were holy magic casters, donning robes issued by the Holy Empire.
Ellis approached the first carriage as Arbious and Fear followed behind. A guard saluted her and provided a report. Arbious cast a clairvoyance magic spell to review the report, but it only detailed the supplies and arms they were carrying—twenty swordsmen, two healers, a concealed archer, and Ellis.
Arbious caught up with Ellis as she handed back the report. Turning to him, she spoke, "Know that I don't like you."
"Why is that?"
"You are just another filthy rich person trying to get his hands into politics. I would have killed you myself had it not been for our Queen."
"I am grateful for your mercy then," Arbious remarked, a joke that went over her head. Fear, however, chuckled slightly, having grown accustomed to Arbious's humor. Ignoring Fear's reaction, Ellis said, "Please get inside. I am going to issue the move-out order soon."
Arbious looked at Fear. "Ready for another ride?"
"Mhm," Fear replied.
"Good."
Arbious and Fear entered the carriage, and as the door closed, Arbious spoke, "You like her?"
"Who..?"
"I see the way you looked at her. You like her, is that it?"
Fear's face turned red. "No! That's not it!"
Arbious chuckled. "Well, it's fine. She is strong, that much I can tell."
"My lord," Fear spoke, his face still red. "I must humbly make a request. Please, do not say that again if she is around."
Arbious burst into laughter. "Don't worry, I'm just teasing you."
Arbious cast a magical spell, creating a small dark portal where the book Fear was carrying was. The book fell through as he let go. "I'll be taking back that book, by the way. No reason to have it out anymore. I'd rather have it not get damaged."
"A rare collector's book, my lord. Thank you for allowing me to read it."
The door opened once more, with Ellis entering. "I assume we are heading out now?"
As she took her seat beside Fear, her eyes narrowed. "Yes, we are," she replied.
The carriage, adorned with golden embellishments and drawn by sturdy white horses, began their slow procession. The rhythmic clatter of hooves on the cobblestone echoed through the grand courtyard, announcing their departure. As the carriage inched forward, Arbious looked out of the window, observing the vast expanse of Anna's Estate.
Ellis, seated stoically across from Arbious, maintained a vigilant gaze. Her eyes darted between the buildings and the looming shadows, ever watchful for any signs of danger. Arbious could sense her readiness, a silent understanding that the journey ahead would not be without its perils.
Fear sat next to Ellis, his eyes glancing nervously between the vast palace of Anna and Ellis who sat next to him. The atmosphere inside the carriage remained tense, the unspoken anticipation of the imminent clash with the great necromancer lingering like an unseen force. a profound sense of uncertainty enveloped Fear. He grappled with a question that lingered in the recesses of his mind — was his unwavering support for Arbious, the God of the Demonic race, right or wrong? Only time could tell...