image [https://i.imgur.com/eY2gF5l.png]

Perched upon his throne in the fiery depths of the Hellfire Citadel, Arbious's mind teemed with sinister schemes to overthrow the human world. Alpos, his trusted advisor, proposed a brilliant idea—a new addition to their demonic army, a breed of demons specializing in ranged combat and capable of wielding formidable magical powers. Recognizing the significance of magic in warfare, Arbious resolved to consult the cultists who toiled tirelessly in the demon pits, for they held the knowledge and expertise required to summon demons into existence.

Though he possessed the capability to accomplish the task himself, doing so would be a needless drain on his mana reserves. Creation magic exacted a substantial toll even upon a being as formidable as he, whereas the cultists could undertake the summoning ritual more efficiently.

Thus, Arbious transferred his consciousness into his dormant human vessel, which lay nestled in the highest chamber of the citadel. As he emerged from his slumber, he found himself reclining on an opulent bed adorned with plush cushions and other human indulgences. Adjacent to him, a table with a lamp emanated an eerie, negative energy—a magical artifact employed to enhance the room's ambiance.

Beneath the bed, a scarlet carpet unfurled, extending all the way to the chamber's entrance. Surveying the meticulous arrangement of the room, Arbious marveled at Alpos's attention to detail, for he had not personally overseen these embellishments.

His limbs felt revitalized, pulsating with the renewed power of his magic coursing through this human vessel. Yet, as he inhabited this mortal form, a wave of melancholy washed over him, a sentiment long forgotten since he assumed his divine manifestation. Was it the consequence of dwelling within a human shell? It seemed likely.

He was a towering figure, both in human and demonic form, shrouded in darkness. His long hair cascaded down his back like a river of shadows, adding to the menacing aura that surrounded him. Draped over his broad shoulders was a robe as black as the void, its fabric seemingly absorbing the light around it. The robe was intricately embroidered with ancient runes and sigils, glowing faintly with a malevolent energy. These clothes were made by his very own hands to sustain his demonic energies.

However, Arbious had no time for trivial musing, for his ambitions far surpassed indulging in the peculiarity of his outfit. He rose from his bed, marching across the carpet as his footsteps reverberated in the air. With incredible force beyond comprehension, he pushed open the grand doors, stepping out of his chamber.

Awaiting him outside were two vigilant Impions assigned to guard his physical body. As he emerged, they bowed in deference to their sovereign.

"Rise," he commanded, and the Impions lifted their heads in response.

The Impions felt a shiver run down their bones upon hearing Arbious's voice. Although he took a human form, the terrifying aura that surrounded his body left even demons in fear. Some would go as far to say that he was scarier in his human form.

"You shall accompany me," Arbious declared, as he descended the citadel's staircase, leading to the first floor.

The two Impions looked at each other and gulped in fear. They couldn't refuse, this was not a request, it was an order. They followed quickly behind Arbious, the two of them watching Arbious's black hair cascade like dark tendrils. From his hair to the end of his robes, everything about his form was menacing. Upon reaching the spiral stairway's base, a cultist garbed in dark robes but nothing as elegant as Arbious's stood in the throne room, anticipating their arrival. Arbious's presence in this human vessel left the ornate throne vacant.

"My lord," the cultist bowed respectfully, his eyes gleaming at Arbious's human form.

"Stand," Arbious gestured, granting the cultist permission to rise, his red eyes fixated on the human before him.

"My lord, I have come in response to your summons," the cultist spoke.

"Lead me to the Demon Pits," Arbious commanded.

"But, my lord, do you believe it wise to descend into our humble summoning grounds? It is not a place fit for one such as yourself."

"Enough prattle. Obey my command," Arbious curtly responded.

With a nod of acquiescence, the cultist motioned for him to proceed ahead.

Taking the lead, Arbious employed his magic to part the gates of the Hellfire Citadel, revealing the expanse of the courtyard beyond. As they descended the stairway, the cultist-initiated conversation. "I presume you intend to create a new race of demons," he surmised.

"And how do you come by this knowledge?" Arbious inquired.

"Alpos discussed this endeavor with me a few days ago, my lord," the cultist divulged.

So Alpos went out of his way to discuss this with the cultists although he objected to it?

"I see," Arbious replied, taken aback by the cultist's revelation.

Together, they ventured towards the dreaded demon pits—a foul place from which the Impions were spawned. A massive gate loomed before them, guarded by sentinels who bowed in deference upon witnessing Arbious's presence.

The cultist unlocked the door, and they descended deeper underground. Eventually, they arrived at a spacious chamber adorned with a large pentagram, etched upon the floor using blood. Five cultists stood within, fervently chanting their demonic incantations, each clutching a copy of the infernal scripture.

Silently, Arbious and the cultists observed as chaotic energies swirled at the heart of the pentagram, gradually materializing into a newly-formed Impion. However, in its mindless frenzy, the demon unleashed its wrath, only to discover that it was confined within the circle's boundaries. The cultists persisted with their ritual, skillfully exerting control over the Impion through their magic, preventing it from breaking free from its prison.

"As you can see, my lord, we are understaffed down here... If I may be so bold as to make a request, would you permit us to expand the demon pits and accommodate a greater number of cultists?" the cultist proposed.

"I suppose I should, considering the forthcoming orders I am about to bestow upon you, which will undoubtedly increase your workload," Arbious mused.

The cultist nodded in understanding, and they remained in the chamber, awaiting the arrival of the head of their organization.

As the ritual concluded, with the Impion subdued, a figure clad in resplendent purple robes, adorned with purple gems, approached. The remaining cultists trailed behind, their attire a solemn black along with the one standing beside Arbious—a symbol of their apprenticeship, while their leader embodied mastery.

"Master Vorner," the cultist standing next to Arbious spoke as the leader of their team approached them.

Vorner... Right... I forgot his name for a moment, he has gotten older since the last time we met...

"Your Highness, what brings you to our esteemed establishment?" Vorner inquired, dismissing the other cultists with a wave of his hand.

"Assuming Alpos has already briefed you, I shall get straight to the point," Arbious responded, leisurely pacing around the intricate demonic circle etched on the ground. "I am here to ascertain the extent of your summoning capabilities... to explore the potential creation of a new breed of demons."

"If it's possible?" Vorner questioned.

"Well, what I mean is, I desire to discern the limitations of the demons you can summon... I wonder if you possess the ability to summon beings more advanced than mere Impions—creatures adept at wielding magic," Arbious elaborated.

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

Vorner's eyes narrowed as he listened to Arbious's request. Even he was terrified of Arbious, and his request left him wondering his intent. "My lord, with all due respect, our ranks are already stretched thin. We face scarcity in numbers, and even the Impions are difficult for us to control," Vorner explained.

"What do you mean?" Arbious inquired, curiosity piqued.

"As you witnessed earlier, the Impions we summon display immediate hostility towards us as humans. Over the years, many of our brethren have fallen victim to the very demons we have summoned under your name. I implore you, we require assistance if we are to continue our work."

"Then recall your acolytes from the human world. We no longer need them to fulfill their duties there," Arbious suggested.

"My lord, our acolytes were slain by the holy knights. We require fresh recruits," Vorner explained, hoping not to get more work placed on his shoulders.

"So, what you are telling me is that until I resolve this issue for you, we cannot proceed with the production of new demons?" Arbious deduced.

Vorner, not wanting to seem impractical in front of his master explained, "My lord, we can redirect our efforts if you deem it necessary. However, as matters stand, we cannot sustain both endeavors,"

"Then redirect our efforts until I can provide the necessary recruits to accommodate your needs,"

"Most excellent, Your Highness. But, if you would indulge me, what specific type of demon are you seeking?"

"A ranged demon... Ideally capable of casting fireball spells." Arbious explained. "I understand this may place a significant burden on you, but can you ensure that their fireball spells are at least of the third tier?" Arbious articulated, acknowledging the challenge it posed to the cultists.

Vorner pondered for a moment, weighing the possibilities in his mind. "My lord, summoning such beings would indeed exact a tremendous toll on us, but it is within our capabilities. However, I must caution you that the production of these demons will be a slow process."

"That is of no concern to me. As long as the demons are summoned," Arbious affirmed. "Now, as for their physical appearance... I envision demons with slightly lesser physical strength than the Impions, in order to reduce the mana cost of summoning."

"I understand, my lord. May I offer a suggestion?"

"Speak," Arbious permitted.

"We could equip these demons with tier one staves to enhance their magical prowess. As for their armor, I propose a lighter type, such as leather, to ensure agility and swift movement on the battlefield. Speed is paramount for our mages, as our forces often face peril from enemy cavalry. However, considering your preference for heavy armor, it would render the mages ill-suited for the battlefield."

"I understand," Arbious replied, contemplating Vorner's advice. "Proceed as you deem necessary. Have your acolytes devise suitable designs for the demon's attire, and submit a report to Alpos."

"Yes, my lord. It shall be done," Vorner acknowledged, prepared to carry out the task assigned to him.

Turning away, Arbious made his way towards the exit, filled with satisfaction at the progress achieved. At long last, a new formidable demonic force would soon join their ranks, capable of casting spells at the third tier.

Ascending the stairway, accompanied by his escort, Arbious's thoughts drifted to the demise of the acolytes who had faithfully served under him. The last directive he had issued to them was to remain in hiding until the threat of the archangels had been eradicated. It seemed that the holy knights had found a way to lure his followers out into the open.

Of course, there was always Morgana's forces who would be more than willing to aid him, but Alpos and she had a rivalry every time they would meet. Working together was nearly impossible.

Emerging from the pits, Arbious was greeted by Alpos, standing before him with a sinister grin etched upon his face. "My lord, I have returned from the human world," Alpos announced, giving a humble and courteous bow.

"I presume Clovis had a pleasurable journey back?" Arbious inquired, sensing a trace of sarcasm in Alpos' response.

"Most pleasurable indeed, Your Highness. I ensured he experienced the excruciating torment of having his eyeballs devoured by worms and maggots before restoring them to their former state using unholy energies during our journey. I am confident that such an ordeal will make him think twice before betraying us again," Alpos gleefully revealed.

"With him paying our ransom, we gain not only monetary wealth but something far more valuable. Hence, under no circumstances should he be killed," Arbious emphasized.

"I understand, my lord," Alpos acknowledged. "But may I inquire about the nature of this valuable asset we have acquired?"

"Certainly," Arbious replied. "By securing his payment, we have acquired an agent whom we can blackmail at a later date—a mole within their ranks whom we can exploit to our advantage."

"I see. Your wisdom knows no bounds, your grace," Alpos remarked in awe.

"Please, it is nothing," Arbious modestly responded.

Alpos glanced at the guards behind Arbious, curiosity evident in his eyes. "My lord, may I inquire why you have taken on your human host?"

"Must I always explain myself?" Arbious retorted.

"I apologize, my lord," Alpos quickly apologized, averting his gaze.

"Follow me, Alpos. I wish to show you something," Arbious beckoned, dismissing his query with a wave of his hand. With Alpos and the guards trailing behind him, they proceeded toward the fourth sector.

On their way to the fourth sector, they encountered demons carrying goods to the construction site. Alpos followed closely behind Arbious, seizing the opportunity to engage in conversation about his recent endeavors. "I assume you've conversed with Master Vorner of the Dark Cultists?" Alpos inquired.

"Yes, an unpleasant individual," Arbious remarked with a hint of disdain.

"It unsettles us demons to have humans among our ranks," Alpos expressed, his thoughts spilling out as he trailed behind Arbious. "We should be wary of humans who serve only their own self-interest."

"Do we demons not act in the same manner?" Arbious retorted. "Are we not driven by our own desires and ambitions? Please, spare me the laughter. Those humans are willing to betray their own kind just to serve us. I dare say they are far more deplorable than we are."

"I suppose you have a point," Alpos conceded, realizing the truth in Arbious's words.

In the distance, thousands of Impions toiled diligently, constructing a grand wall. A vast pile of stones stood adjacent to the construction site, as the demons swiftly arranged each brick atop another.

"My lord, how did you manage all of this?" Alpos inquired, awe evident in his voice.

"Follow me," Arbious replied, leading the way toward the construction site. They traversed a road that had been created by numerous caravans transporting goods to the location.

Sigfi stood amidst the construction site, surrounded by his loyal aides. As they approached, the air thickened with Arbious's sinister aura, causing Sigfi to turn and acknowledge their presence.

"My lord, I did not anticipate your personal visit," Sigfi greeted Arbious with a bow.

Alpos motioned for Sigfi to rise, engaging in a friendly yet sarcastic exchange. "So, Sigfi, how does it feel to hold my position now that you work directly under our master?"

"I am deeply honored," Sigfi responded without a trace of defiance or anger. "It is a dream come true for demons like us to be entrusted with such a significant task. I have gone to great lengths to bring our master's plans to fruition."

"I am glad to hear that," Alpos remarked, clearly vexed by the efficiency of Sigfi's organization. "But let's not forget the massive amount of work that lies ahead of us with this wall."

Sigfi acknowledged the challenge, expressing his concerns. "Indeed, we face limitations with our current workforce. If only I had undead labor at my disposal around the clock, it would alleviate many of our worries."

"Enough bickering," Arbious intervened, his voice commanding attention. "Remember that both of you serve under me, and I am displeased to see you at odds. You are comrades first and foremost. Do not forget that."

Both Alpos and Sigfi nodded in agreement, though Alpos's nod carried a hint of defiance.

"Now, concerning the wall, are you implementing the four-gate plan I initiated?" Alpos inquired.

"Yes, I am," Sigfi confirmed. "The construction phase is projected to be completed within two days. We have meticulously managed our resources, and we have just enough to suffice."

"How is that possible?" Alpos questioned, his curiosity piqued. "The resources required were far beyond what we had."

"I played a part in the creation of these evil bricks that now lay here, hoping to aid the construction process," Arbious stated as he approached the construction site, closely inspecting their progress.

Alpos and Sigfi followed Arbious, standing alongside the pile of bricks, observing the workers as they diligently carried stones and assembled them.

"The construction is progressing splendidly," Arbious commended. "You have done an exceptional job, Sigfi."

"Thank you, my lord. I will strive to do even better," Sigfi responded with gratitude.

"Sigfi, I want you to delegate your authority over the construction to someone under your command. You and Alpos are to report to the throne room immediately. We shall discuss our future plans together."

Alpos glanced at Sigfi with envy in his eyes, clearly annoyed by Arbious's acknowledgment of Sigfi's accomplishments. Arbious was well aware of Alpos's competitive nature and hoped to spur him into greater productivity through this action.

"Alpos, dispatch a messenger to summon Vorner. He is to join us at the meeting."

"Yes, my lord. Consider it done," Alpos affirmed.

With a raised hand, Arbious summoned a beam of hellfire, transporting his human form back to the citadel. Severing his connection to the mortal vessel, Arbious assumed his divine form upon the throne, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his generals to discuss their future endeavors.