Chapter 3

For months, Amarah had been training Vyth. One day, they met at their usual time, in their regular training ground.

"Vyth. This will be the last day we train together, at least for a while." said Amarah.

"How come? Did something important come up? There’s still so much I could learn from you." Vyth replied.

"I spoke with High Priest Aryn recently, and she has entrusted me with an important task. I’ll tell you more about it later, but for now, I can’t say any more. However, I’d like to see how much you’ve improved over the past months. Please, tell me briefly what you’ve learned. No need to go into detail."

Vyth straightened his posture and began to list what he had learned.

"Under your teaching, I’ve gained both theoretical and practical knowledge. In theory, I’ve learned about the four basic natures of magic. Earth, Water, Fire, and Air magic." he began. "If two or more base types of magic are properly combined, they can create new natures of magic, such as Metal, Crystal, Ice, Poison, or Soul magic. But countless other variations can be created if the mage is skilled and experienced enough."

"Good, that’s exactly right." Amarah smiled. "Your theoretical knowledge is excellent. I won’t test your swordsmanship today, since magic use is the field you had to start from zero. Please, show me a few spells."

Vyth nodded, then turned toward a nearby training dummy. He raised his right arm, palm facing upward. As he focused the energy within his body into his palm, small flames began to form, slowly shaping into a steady fireball. He held it in the air for a short moment, then aimed at the dummy and threw it. The fireball hit the target, causing a small explosion and leaving a mark on it.

"Very good." Amarah nodded. "Your fireball is stable, and your aim is precise. Its power can still be improved, but that was a solid effort."

"Thank you." Vyth smiled.

"Well, let’s see the next spell..." Amarah began, when a Silver Knight entered the training ground.

"Silver Knight Amarah." the knight addressed him respectfully. "High Priest Aryn summons you. She sends word that she wishes to send you on your mission earlier than planned. She asks that you report to the Temple immediately."

"Thank you for the message." Amarah nodded, then looked at Vyth. "Come with me. I’m heading straight to the Temple. You can’t come inside with me this time, but at least I can tell you a bit about why we can’t continue the training for now."

Vyth nodded sadly, and the three of them left the training ground together.

As Amarah and Vyth made their way toward the Temple, Amarah noticed the sadness on Vyth’s face. Silently, he placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Don’t worry, Vyth. Once I’ve completed my mission, we’ll continue our training." he said, trying to reassure him.

"It would’ve been good to keep going now. I don’t feel ready yet... What if I’m given some task while you’re away?" Vyth asked.

"Don’t say such things. You’ve improved a lot. Considering that you hadn’t even finished your basic training before becoming a Silver Knight, what you’ve achieved in such a short time is remarkable. It’s only your confidence that still needs work."

"Thank you for your teaching and your praise. I hope you’re right." Vyth smiled, though the sadness hadn’t completely left his face.

When they reached the Temple, they saw High Priest Aryn standing by the entrance. Aryn looked at Vyth.

"Vyth, what are you doing here?" she asked, slightly surprised.

"I just accompanied Amarah, High Priest Aryn." Vyth replied.

"I’m glad you did, because in fact, I wanted to speak with you as well. More precisely, with both of you, since what I’m about to ask Amarah also concerns you." Aryn said, then gestured for them to follow. "Come, let’s go inside."

The three of them walked through the Temple, heading toward the High Priest’s chamber.

Once inside, they sat down at a large table.

"Vyth, I assume you already know that you and Amarah will have to stop your training for a while." Aryn began.

Vyth nodded. "Amarah mentioned it, but he didn’t tell me the reason."

"As I asked him not to reveal it to anyone. But now, I’ll tell you as well. I’m not sure how familiar you are with the ranking system of the Knights."

"The ranking system? You mean that there are the Guardians, and above them the Silver Knights?" Vyth asked.

"Exactly. Though there are intermediate ranks as well, like the Commander, whom you already know. But above the Silver Knights stands another, the Golden Knights."

"Golden Knights? I’ve never heard of them."

"Not surprising. The Golden Knights serve directly under Goddess Ylena. They usually carry out her commands, and I act as the intermediary, passing along her instructions when the Goddess is occupied."

Vyth thought for a moment, then looked at Amarah.

"So that means..." he began.

"Yes." Aryn interrupted. "Goddess Ylena herself has requested that Amarah become a Golden Knight. And he accepted the calling."

Joy appeared on Vyth’s face. Though it pained him to part with Amarah, he still felt proud. During their training together, a close friendship had formed between them, and now he felt pride rather than sadness.

"I understand. Thank you for sharing this with me." he said respectfully.

"Our training may end, but don’t forget how much you’ve grown." Amarah said.

"I’m grateful for it, Amarah." Vyth smiled.

Aryn watched the two of them with a warm expression.

"I know how far you’ve come, Vyth." she continued. "That’s why I have a request for you. You have the right to refuse if you feel you’re not ready."

Vyth straightened up, paying close attention to every word.

"It may sound unusual to give you a task so soon after your studies, but I trust your abilities. When I chose you to become a Silver Knight, it wasn’t merely out of necessity. I saw potential in you, even though you hadn’t completed your basic training." Aryn said seriously. "I want you to take a newly appointed Guardian and teach them."

Vyth was stunned, unable to speak for a moment.

"But High Priest Aryn... I don’t know everything myself. How could I teach someone?" he asked hesitantly.

"As I said, I trust you." Aryn smiled. "But of course, you’re not obligated to accept."

Vyth thought deeply. Though he had doubts, he finally nodded.

"I accept the task, High Priest Aryn. I’ll do everything I can."

"Thank you, Vyth. You’ll be a great help." Aryn replied, giving a slight bow that made Vyth a bit embarrassed.

"Amarah will soon attend his ceremony to be appointed a Golden Knight. Once that’s done, I’ll introduce you to your new student."

"Thank you very much for the trust." Vyth said. "When will the ceremony take place?"

"Almost everything is ready. It will happen within a day or two. But be aware, only Golden Knights may attend the ceremony. So unfortunately, you won’t be able to be there."

"That’s completely understandable." Vyth nodded. "I expected as much."

"Excellent." Aryn smiled. "Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a few details to discuss with Amarah."

"Of course." Vyth said respectfully, then left the chamber and headed back to the Guard Quarters.

Over the next few days, Vyth focused on improving his own abilities. He especially worked on perfecting his magic use, concentrating on increasing his offensive power so that he could be better prepared for the student entrusted to him.

After his training sessions, when Vyth returned to the Guard Quarters, he kept thinking about the fact that within days, he would have his own student. He was nervous about it, as he didn’t know what to expect, how well he would perform, or whether he would meet the expectations placed upon him.

One day, halfway to the training ground, Vyth ran into Amarah. He was wearing a shining golden armor that radiated immense energy. Walking beside him was a young man with blue hair. When Amarah saw Vyth, he waved to him from afar.

"Vyth." he called out. "We were just on our way to find you."

"Amarah. It’s good to see you." Vyth replied, eyeing Amarah’s new armor with admiration.

"Vyth." Amarah continued. "I’d like to introduce you to Llyris. He’s the student High Priest Aryn told you about."

"It’s an honor to meet you, Silver Knight Vyth." Llyris said respectfully, bowing his head.

Vyth still found it strange to hear his name spoken with his title. Though he had been a Silver Knight for months, he still hadn’t fully grown used to the formality.

"The honor is mine." he replied with a smile.

"I hope I can live up to your expectations, Silver Knight Vyth." Llyris said a bit tensely.

"My expectations?" Vyth asked in surprise, glancing at Amarah, who smiled for a moment. "Don’t worry so much about that. I don’t have any expectations."

Amarah laughed, clearly seeing the tension in both of them.

"Relax, both of you." he said. "I know this is a sudden change, but don’t make too big a deal of it. It’s true that it’s not common for a Silver Knight to train a Guardian, but given the shortage of people, it was a necessary step. Teaching will be new for Vyth as well, but I truly believe that both of you will do just fine."

Vyth and Llyris looked at each other, then both laughed.

"You’re right, Amarah." Vyth said.

"High Priest Aryn sends word that she’ll give you a few days to get to know each other." Amarah continued. "After that, she’ll call for you. Most likely, you’ll receive a mission soon."

Their conversation was suddenly interrupted by a loud noise. The city’s warning horn echoed through the air, and reacting quickly, all three of them started running toward the city center.

As they approached, they could already see the growing crowd from afar, Guardians and Silver Knights gathering together.

"This is bad." Amarah said. "I can feel a massive surge of dark energy coming from that direction. It’s as if an army of demons had invaded the city."

Vyth and Llyris looked at each other, then kept running toward the center.

When they arrived, they found a single demon standing in the square, watching the gathered crowd with a wicked grin.

Amarah froze in disbelief. "W-what? That enormous energy is coming from just one demon?" he asked in shock.

"Well, what a warm welcome." the demon laughed. "I’m sure I’ll have plenty of fun today."

Several Silver Knights stepped closer to him.

"Who are you, and why have you come here?" one of them asked.

"Unfortunately, during the last battle I didn’t have the chance to visit this place, so I’m making up for it now. I was getting bored down in the Underworld anyway." the demon replied. "My name is Vorgath. One of the Dark Princes of the Dark God. Let’s see what Ylena’s little city is capable of." he said, then lunged into the group of Silver Knights. Before they could react, he cut down several of them with just a few swift strikes.

The response came immediately. The crowd charged at him as one, drawing their blades and unleashing close-range magic.

Amarah joined the attack, and Vyth and Llyris followed him.

Vorgath easily deflected their furious strikes, no matter where they came from. With every move, another warrior fell to the ground, bodies collapsing one after another.

Panic began to spread among the fighters as they saw their attacks having no effect.

"Enough!" Amarah shouted, leaping from the middle of the crowd straight toward Vorgath, striking with his sword imbued with Holy power.

Vorgath sensed the Holy energy but stopped the blade with his bare hand, then laughed.

"Is this all the famous Golden Knights of Ylena can do? Pathetic." he said, snapping Amarah’s sword in half and slamming him to the ground with his fist.

Though the golden armor softened the blow, Amarah was thrown several meters back and struggled to get up.

"This city isn’t even worth destroying." the demon said. "It’s a disgrace that you call yourselves knights when not one of you could even wound me."

Vorgath looked over the people, then smirked again.

"I was hoping for better entertainment. But you’re all just boring."

He then stretched out his arm, and a portal began to open before him.

"I suggest you put up a better fight next time." he said before stepping through the portal. The gate closed immediately behind him.

After some effort, Amarah managed to get back on his feet. He looked over the bodies lying around him. His face showed deep disappointment for not being able to prevent the destruction Vorgath had left behind. The feeling of helplessness gnawed at him. He wore the Golden armor, the symbol of power and honor, yet he didn’t feel he had truly earned it.

From the direction of the Temple, more Golden Knights arrived, accompanied by Aryn. Amarah started walking toward them, but when he got close, he didn’t say a word. He simply walked past them, moving forward with determination, silent and distant. Aryn saw the anger and guilt in Amarah’s eyes but didn’t call out to him. She thought it best to let him be.

Vyth wanted to run after Amarah, but Aryn stopped him.

"Leave him be, Vyth." Aryn said. "He’s burdened by what happened, but we must let him process it."

Vyth looked sadly toward Amarah’s fading silhouette.

"But it’s obvious he blames himself." he said worriedly.

"Amarah has always been like that." Aryn said softly. "He can only face failure on his own. He needs time to think through what happened and to realize it wasn’t his fault. It’s a process we cannot rush."

Vyth nodded sadly, then returned to Llyris.

Later that night, as Vyth was preparing to sleep, there was a knock on his door. When he opened it, he found Amarah standing there. His face was sorrowful, but determination still shone in his eyes.

"Vyth." Amarah said. "I’m sorry to bother you this late, but I didn’t want to leave without saying something."

"Leave?" Vyth asked in surprise. "Where are you going?"

"I spoke with High Priest Aryn." Amarah replied. "I asked her for a leave of absence. I’m going on a personal mission, an expedition of sorts. There’s something important I must take care of before I return."

"Can I help? Or maybe accompany you?" Vyth offered.

Amarah smiled.

"Don’t worry, I’ll be fine on my own. I’ll be back soon. But thank you for offering." he said, giving Vyth one last look before walking off into the night.

Vyth let out a deep sigh. He was truly worried for his friend, but he remembered Aryn’s words and decided to give Amarah the time he needed.

Several days later, as Vyth stepped out of his house, he saw a Golden Knight waiting in front of his door.

"Greetings, Silver Knight Vyth." the Golden Knight said.

"Good day." Vyth replied, slightly surprised. "Can I help you with something? Has something happened?"

"High Priest Aryn has summoned you. Please, come with me to the Temple."

"I see. In that case, let’s go."

Vyth set off toward the Temple of the Goddess, accompanied by the Golden Knight. As they reached the entrance, Vyth noticed Llyris standing nearby, waiting.

"Llyris." Vyth called out. "What brings you to the Temple?"

"High Priest Aryn has summoned him as well." the Golden Knight said. "Please, let us not keep the High Priest waiting."

The three of them hurried to the High Priest’s chamber, where Aryn was already waiting.

"Thank you for coming so quickly." Aryn said. "I have an important task for you. Originally, Amarah was to receive this assignment, but since he requested leave and we’re short on people at the moment, I’ve decided to entrust it to you instead."

Aryn stepped closer to Vyth and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"I don’t wish to burden you with all of Amarah’s duties, but I need your help."

"That’s not a problem, High Priest Aryn." Vyth smiled. "I’ll gladly help in any way I can."

"I’m glad to hear that." Aryn continued. "The task may seem simple, but it could be dangerous. In a few days, I have an important meeting in Ezico. Normally, two Golden Knights would accompany me, but that’s not possible now. So you, Llyris, and Janryc will escort me."

"Janryc?" Vyth asked, a bit puzzled.

"My apologies, I haven’t introduced myself." the Golden Knight spoke up. "My name is Janryc."

"A pleasure to meet you." Vyth smiled. "So the three of us will escort you to Ezico."

"That’s right." Aryn nodded. "We leave tomorrow morning."

Aryn gestured toward the far end of the chamber.

"To make sure we can depart early, I’ve arranged quarters for you. Your rooms are already prepared. Please, get some rest so you’ll be ready for tomorrow."

All three of them bowed, then headed to their quarters. They settled into their rooms and soon went to sleep, resting for the journey ahead.

The next morning, all four of them waited by the city gates, ready to depart.

"We have a long road ahead of us." Aryn said.

"What kind of city is Ezico?" Vyth asked. "I’ve never been there before."

"It’s larger than Glelrun, though not by much." Aryn replied. "But its atmosphere is entirely different. You’ll see soon enough. Let’s go. We’ll have plenty of time to talk on the road."

The group set off along a well-traveled, dusty road mostly used by merchants. As they moved farther from the city, they passed several travelers who politely greeted the respected High Priest and the Knights accompanying her.

Aryn led the way. For a while, she walked in silence, then suddenly spoke.

"In Ezico, it’s important that you act with discretion. Like most major cities, they don’t take kindly to foreign envoys. They’re not hostile, but very cautious."

"Why is that?" Llyris asked curiously.

"In the great cities of the world, Glelrun and Ezico among them, each has a Temple of its own. These Temples are dedicated to different deities. Glelrun belongs to Ylena, the Goddess of Light, while Ezico has its own god. Since these deities aren’t exactly on friendly terms, their followers tend to be wary of one another."

"I see." Llyris said. "So which deity do the people of Ezico follow?"

"Ezico is the city of Favena, the Goddess of Love." Aryn replied gravely.

"You sound like you have strong opinions about her." Vyth noted.

"This isn’t my first time traveling to Ezico." Aryn said. "Though it’s been several years since my last visit. The High Priest there and I... are not on the best of terms. Followers often try to please their deities, and since Favena is not only the Goddess of Love but also of Passion, Ezico is filled with places where people indulge in their desires." She glanced back at Vyth. "Their High Priest also takes great pleasure in Favena’s favorite activities, to put it mildly. Unfortunately, for her, pleasure outweighs preparation. He values entertainment more than readiness for conflict. True, Ezico hasn’t seen war in centuries, but it’s only a matter of time before the Dark God turns his eyes toward them as well."

They continued in silence for a while, Vyth lost in thought.

The day passed quickly, and by afternoon they were walking through a sparse forest. Vyth’s gaze drifted into the distance. He couldn’t explain why, but he had a bad feeling, as though something, or someone, was watching them.

The silence was broken again by Aryn.

"Vyth, Llyris. Since we have plenty of time, tell me about yourselves. What made you join the Guardians?" she asked.

"As for me..." Vyth began. "...my father raised me. He was a Guardian himself. He taught me so many things, and I’ve always wanted to follow in his footsteps. That’s why I became a Guardian, he inspired me, and he still supports me to this day."

"I know him well, a fine swordsman." Aryn said. "It’s unfortunate that he stepped down from service."

"Yes, he is." Vyth nodded. "He used to tell me stories from the days when he was still a Guardian."

"Why did he leave?" Llyris asked.

"I never knew my mother. She left us right after I was born. My father had to raise me alone, so he couldn’t fulfill his duties as a Guardian."

"She left you?" Llyris said in surprise. "You must hate her for that."

"Honestly, I’m not sure what I feel." Vyth answered. "But I don’t hate her. My father always said she didn’t want to leave us, she had no choice. He never told me more, no matter how many times I asked. That was enough for me not to hate her. Still, I want to know why she left... whether she’s even alive. It’s been seventeen years."

Janryc slowed down, raising a hand for the others to stop.

"Something’s wrong." he said quietly.

The group listened in silence. For a moment, there was nothing unusual to hear. Then Vyth caught it too, a faint, fleeting sound.

"Someone’s watching us." Vyth said softly, instinctively reaching for his sword.

In the next instant, a dark figure leapt out before them. Dressed in a long cloak, her face partly hidden beneath the hood, though enough was visible to tell, it was a woman. Her eyes glided over the group with cold calmness before fixing on Aryn.

"High Priest Aryn." she spoke, her voice calm yet threatening. "I’m surprised to see you traveling with such a small escort."

"Who are you?" Aryn asked in a steady tone.

"My name doesn’t matter. You wouldn’t gain anything from knowing it." the woman replied. "After all, you’re about to die."

She lunged straight toward Aryn, drawing a small blade from beneath her cloak. A pair of red eyes glimmered beneath her hood, filled with murderous intent.

Vyth reacted instinctively. In a blink, the woman was upon Aryn, but Vyth threw himself between them. Sparks flew as their blades clashed. The woman was fast. With a graceful motion, she leapt back, then attacked again.

Llyris and Janryc didn’t stand idle. Llyris tried to flank her while Janryc took position in front of Aryn, shield raised to protect her.

The woman’s attacks were restrained, as if she were testing Vyth’s skill. She paused for a moment, a faint smile curling her lips.

Then she moved again, faster, more aggressive. Vyth and Llyris took turns parrying her strikes, while Janryc stayed close to Aryn, ready to intervene if needed.

"Who do you serve?" Vyth asked, blocking another blow.

The woman laughed softly as her blade met his once more.

"You Guardians are always so curious." she said mockingly.

Vyth tried to anticipate her next move, but then he felt a surge of dark energy emanating from her. His arms grew heavy, his reflexes a shade slower.

Llyris staggered back, steadying himself against a tree.

"What is this?" Llyris said in confusion.

The woman smiled again.

"Oh, what a pity. I thought you’d last longer." she laughed, leaping into the air and spinning gracefully before landing behind them.

Vyth turned swiftly, swinging his sword at her, but she blocked it, leaning close to whisper.

"Tell me, Vyth... do you wish to know who I am?" she whispered, then kicked him back with sudden force.

Vyth quickly regained his footing, raising his sword once more.

Her eyes now glowed brighter red. Her skin darkened slightly, faint markings ran down her neck as she smiled faintly.

"My name is Aezyra." she said.

Aryn’s face darkened, and Janryc tightened his grip on his shield.

"The assassin of the Underworld." Aryn said.

Aezyra’s smile widened.

"How flattering." she laughed. "So few recognize that name. Most of those I’ve told... no longer live."

Her eyes flared brighter, her skin deepening to a dark crimson shade.

"The assassin of the Underworld." Vyth repeated quietly.

Aezyra laughed again. "Oh, don’t be so tense, Guardian." she said with a playful wink, then swung her blade once more and resumed her assault.

Vyth moved instinctively, though he already understood, Aezyra was toying with them, testing them.

Janryc finally joined in, striking with his shield in a heavy blow, but Aezyra dodged easily, leaping back. Her eyes still burned red as she glanced at him.

With a swift motion, she struck the ground. The earth trembled beneath them, and a wave of dark energy rippled outward, forcing them all to retreat for a moment.

Llyris jumped aside but felt his legs grow heavy.

"This demon..." Llyris said. "She’s not only fast, even her presence weakens us."

Vyth didn’t hesitate. He charged forward, slashing his sword in a powerful arc toward Aezyra.

The demoness leapt back in a single, fluid motion, and something changed in her eyes. The playful confidence was gone, she knew the fight was turning against her.

Aezyra watched them for a moment longer, then spun her blade with a faint smile.

"Well, this turned out to be more entertaining than I expected." she laughed. "But that’s enough for now."

Dark energy enveloped her form, and her body slowly dissolved into smoke.

Everything fell silent. Vyth held his sword tight, watching the spot where she had vanished, ready for another attack, but Aezyra was gone.

Janryc slowly lowered his shield, though his eyes remained wary.

Llyris let out a quiet sigh and lowered his weapon.

Aryn looked around with a troubled expression. "We must keep moving. Ezico is not far now." she said, and started walking again, followed by the others.

The group continued along the dusty road in silence. Night was beginning to fall. The trees grew sparse until finally they emerged onto an open field. In the distance, they could see the high walls of Ezico.

As they approached, a group of escorts was already waiting for them at the city gates.

"Welcome, High Priest Aryn." one of them said. "High Priest Raeve is expecting you."

Aryn nodded, then glanced briefly back at Vyth and the others. "Then it’s time." she said, and they stepped through the great gate, entering the bustling streets of Ezico.

The group walked with steady steps through the city, heading straight toward the Temple. At the entrance stood two guards, who, recognizing the High Priest, stepped aside to let them in.

As they entered the grand hall, High Priest Raeve was already waiting for them at the far end of the chamber.

"Aryn." Raeve said. "What brings you here?"

Aryn stepped forward confidently, meeting Raeve’s gaze.

"The world faces an ever-growing danger, Raeve. The followers of the Dark God have begun to move. I’m not talking about scattered attacks anymore. A war is coming."

Raeve’s expression remained calm, her arms crossed before her.

"You said the same last time." she replied evenly.

"This is different." Aryn continued. "Glelrun was under siege. The enemy’s forces reached the city gates. It was only thanks to the Guardians and the Goddess’s blessing, that Glelrun still stands."

Raeve listened in silence, her face unmoved. But Aryn did not stop there.

"Ezico may still live in peace for now, but don’t think that will last forever. The Dark God will not ignore this city. As the rest of the world falls, he will turn his gaze here as well."

"And what do you expect of me, Aryn?" Raeve asked quietly. "To raise an army? To call the people of Ezico to arms? To abandon everything this city stands for?"

"I expect you to understand the seriousness of the situation." Aryn said calmly but firmly. "We must unite our forces. Every city, every resource matters. If we stand together now, there may still be a chance to stop what’s coming."

Raeve sighed, as if she had anticipated this conversation.

"Ezico has always been a city of love and peace. Its people are not warriors. I will not change the essence of this city for the sake of a war that may never reach our gates."

"That’s foolish." Llyris spoke up, taking a step forward. "You know that’s not how this works. Sooner or later, the enemy will come here too. And if you still think like that when it does, Ezico will be defenseless."

Raeve looked at Llyris, not in anger, but with patience.

"You’re young." she said softly. "You believe that every battle must be fought, or else it’s lost. But I see things differently. The people here live in peace. Why should I take that peace from them for a war they never asked for?"

Aryn exhaled slowly. "Because if you don’t prepare, by the time it reaches you, it’ll be too late."

The hall fell silent. Raeve studied Aryn’s face for a long moment, then slowly shook her head.

"I will not bring war to Ezico." she said firmly.

Aryn stood silent for a moment, then spoke again.

"Raeve, I know you don’t wish to take part in this war. But think what will happen when the demons appear at Ezico’s gates. Then you’ll have no choice. Now, you still do."

Raeve sighed quietly. "I can’t risk Ezico’s peace over a threat that may never come."

"This isn’t speculation." Aryn said. "Glelrun was under siege. Even the assassin of the Underworld attacked us on our way here. This isn’t some distant war, Raeve. It’s already here."

Raeve’s gaze remained steady, unchanged.

"You’ve always been a fighter." she said softly. "Always ready for battle, that’s your path. But mine is different. My people are different."

Aryn met her eyes unwaveringly. "This isn’t about you or me. It’s about the peace of our entire world."

Raeve was silent for a long time, then finally sighed.

"I cannot give you an army. I will not draw Ezico into this conflict." she said quietly. "But... I don’t intend to ignore your request entirely either."

Aryn listened in surprise.

Raeve continued. "I can offer you one warrior. A powerful one. Someone who may be worth more than an army."

Aryn’s eyes narrowed slightly. "Who?"

Raeve gave a faint smile. "Archion. One of my most loyal guards. He will accompany you."

"One man worth more than an army?" Llyris said doubtfully.

"A dragon." Raeve replied.

The silence between them grew tense for a moment.

"Few in this world possess the kind of power he does." Raeve added.

Aryn nodded. "What made you change your mind?"

Raeve’s expression softened briefly. "Because we were friends once."

Aryn exhaled quietly. "Thank you, Raeve."

Raeve motioned to one of the guards. "Bring Archion. He has a new mission."

The hall’s silence was soon broken by footsteps, as a tall, dark-haired man entered. His gaze was cold and expressionless as he looked over those present.

Archion didn’t bow, nor did he speak immediately. He first looked at Raeve, then slowly at Aryn.

"You called for me, High Priest Raeve?" he asked at last, his tone showing no respect, but no open hostility either.

"Indeed." Raeve nodded. "I need you to accompany Aryn and her companions. Assist them in their mission."

Archion looked over Aryn and the others.

"I owe them nothing." he said with a faintly mocking glance.

"Not them. You owe me." Raeve replied coolly. "This isn’t a request."

The air grew tense. Archion drew a slow breath before speaking again.

"Human wars mean nothing to me." he said. "But if that’s your command, I’ll comply."

Aryn took a step closer, holding Archion’s cold gaze.

"It’s not enough just to be there." she said firmly. "If you come with us, you’ll fight."

Archion didn’t answer right away. It was as if he were weighing his options. Finally, he shrugged.

"If I must, I’ll fight." he said indifferently. "But don’t expect me to swear loyalty to you."

Aryn smiled faintly. "I won’t ask you to."

Raeve stepped back and nodded.

"You may go now." she said. "Good luck, Aryn."

Aryn nodded in return, and the group finally left the Temple.

They walked quietly through the streets of Ezico, heading straight for the city gates. Archion followed a few steps behind, as if unwilling to fully blend in with the group. His face showed only indifference.

Once they left the city, Aryn broke the silence.

"We’re heading to Nuurgan." she said firmly. "Also known as the Devil’s Heart. It’s the center of the Dark God’s domain on earth."

Llyris looked at her curiously. "Why there?"

"Because that’s where we can stop the next wave of attacks." Aryn replied. "We need to create a magical barrier. If we succeed, the Dark God and his followers won’t be able to open portals from the Underworld. Not for a while, at least. It won’t stop them forever, but it will buy us time."

Vyth nodded. "And how do we get into a land ruled by demons?"

Aryn sighed softly. "By accepting that we don’t have a choice."

Janryc listened quietly, his eyes filled with determination.

Archion let out a tired sigh. "You’re really planning to walk straight into a trap."

Aryn turned toward him. "If you have a better idea, say it."

Archion crossed his arms. "The demons aren’t fools. The moment we step into their territory, they’ll know we’re there."

"Then we’ll fight." Llyris said firmly.

Archion said nothing. A faint, cynical smile crossed his face.

"So be it." he muttered at last.

As they continued their journey, the road remained peaceful for now, but they all knew that would soon change. They were heading toward the darkest place in the world, uncertain of what awaited them there.

By the time the sun began to set, the group stopped to rest in a small wooded area.

Llyris sat down beside the campfire, glancing at the others. "How much farther do we have to go?"

"At least two more days." Aryn replied. "But once we cross the border of human lands, we’ll have to be more careful."

"So we still have time." Archion muttered, leaning against a nearby tree, his back turned slightly toward the group. He clearly had no interest in blending in.

"You don’t sound very eager." Janryc remarked.

Archion sighed with a tired smile. "Because I’m not. Why should I be?"

Vyth raised an eyebrow. "They said you’re a dragon. Don’t your kind live for battle?"

Archion slowly turned toward him. "And what do you know about dragons, Silver Knight?"

Vyth looked slightly taken aback, then shrugged. "Only what the legends say. That they’re powerful beings who live for centuries and can wipe out entire armies."

Archion smiled faintly, as if amused. "Well, legends tend to twist things."

Llyris leaned forward with curiosity. "Then what’s the truth?"

Archion paused for a moment, as if deciding how much to reveal.

"Not every dragon is a warrior." he said finally. "And not every dragon wants to be part of the wars of humans."

"Then why are you here?" Vyth asked.

Archion looked up at the sky. "Because I had no other choice."

Silence followed. Vyth and Llyris exchanged glances but chose not to continue the topic.

Aryn eventually broke the quiet. "We don’t have to agree on everything, but one thing is certain. When we reach Nuurgan, we’ll have to count on each other."

Archion didn’t answer right away. He just stared into the fire, then gave a small, almost imperceptible nod to show he understood.

Night slowly fell, and the group turned in for rest.

The beginning of the journey passed quietly. They were still within human lands, moving through villages and narrow forest paths. The group advanced in silence, accompanied only by the sound of birds and the dull rhythm of their footsteps. Archion followed a few steps behind, wearing his usual look of indifference.

"Everything seems a little too calm." Llyris remarked.

"That’s good for us." Aryn replied without slowing her pace.

As time went on, the landscape began to change. The vegetation grew paler, and the air grew heavier. The border was near.

From the bushes, a demon lunged at them. Vyth struck it aside with a single motion and finished it off with a swift slash.

"A scout." Janryc said. "There’ll be more."

They didn’t have to wait long. Three more figures showed up. Archion sighed and stepped forward. With a single effortless strike, he took them down.

"Pathetic." he muttered.

"A warning." Aryn said. "They know we’re coming."

As they continued, more attackers appeared. They came in groups, but none posed any real threat. Llyris cut them down one by one as he ran, Janryc dispatched them with quick, precise movements. Vyth moved with practiced precision, using the techniques he had learned during training. Archion barely seemed to make an effort, yet he felled the most of them.

"It’s like they’re testing us." Vyth said, looking at the bodies lying on the ground.

"No. We’ve only just crossed the border." Aryn replied. "The real resistance awaits us deeper in Nuurgan."

No one said another word. They kept moving forward, into the deepening darkness.

As they reached Nuurgan, the land changed almost instantly. The ground was dark and lifeless, cracked and dry, the air heavier with every breath. Aryn stopped on a rocky ridge.

"This is where we begin." she said softly. She knelt, placed her hands on the ground, and closed her eyes. A golden light began to glow around her body, pulsing stronger with each moment.

The others watched in silence, scanning the surroundings. At first, everything seemed calm. But it didn’t last long.

A deep rumble echoed from somewhere, and then, a few meters away, a crimson portal burst open from nothing. Flames rose high as three demons stepped out. Their eyes burned red, claws sharp, movements swift and merciless.

The group quickly formed a battle stance and struck with coordinated precision. Llyris cast a light spell that blinded one demon before cutting it down, while Vyth drove his sword deep into another’s abdomen. Archion moved from the side, crushing the third enemy with a single strike.

The portal, however, didn’t close. More portals began to open around them. Demons emerged one after another, their numbers growing rapidly.

"Aryn! How much longer?" Janryc shouted, hurling a demon backward with a gust of wind magic.

"The circle isn’t complete yet. If I stop now, all of this will be for nothing!" Aryn called back. Her voice trembled with strain, but her focus didn’t waver.

The group fought back to back, but the number of demons doubled with every passing moment. The battle turned chaotic. Attacks came from every direction. A winged demon dove from above toward Llyris, who barely dodged at the last second. Vyth rushed to his aid, slicing deep across the demon’s chest. Blood and dark energy splattered through the air.

"There are too many portals everywhere!" Janryc gasped, destroying another foe. "We’re trapped!"

Archion had been holding back, his human form already powerful enough to deal devastating blows. But as the circle tightened around them and the air grew heavy with demonic presence, he stepped forward.

"Enough." he growled.

A moment later, white light enveloped his body. His bones stretched, his muscles tensed, and his shape shifted. A massive dragon covered in black scales stood behind the group. His eyes glowed red, and his wings cast a vast shadow across the ground.

The demons hesitated for a moment.

Archion let out a deafening roar that shook the entire field. The nearby portals trembled under the force. With one mighty beat of his wings, he soared into the air and descended upon the enemy. He unleashed fire, flames that didn’t just burn but utterly destroyed the demonic bodies. His claws tore through them, ripping apart any that came too close.

"Now we have a chance!" Llyris shouted, charging back into the fight.

The demons grew disorganized, their movements erratic as panic spread among them. Archion fought with centuries of strength and mastery in every strike. The demonic portals began to fade, retreating one by one.

Aryn sent one final, powerful surge of energy into the ground. The rock beneath her trembled as the barrier sealed. A radiant golden dome of light spread across the land. The demons screamed and stumbled back, the force driving them away. Those too slow to flee burned to ash within it.

Archion slowly descended and returned to his human form. He looked exhausted, but for the first time, his eyes burned not with indifference, but with fury and determination.

The battlefield was covered in ash and scorched earth. The demons were gone or destroyed, and the magical dome now stood as protection against the portals of the Underworld.

Vyth breathed heavily, scanning the group. Janryc held his bleeding arm but endured the pain. Llyris sat beside a collapsed rock, exhausted but unharmed.

Aryn pushed herself to her feet. "It’s done. They won’t be able to open new portals here for a while."

"Next time, don’t let it get this far." Archion said quietly, sitting down on a stone and exhaling deeply.

"We wouldn’t have survived without you." Aryn replied sincerely.

Archion said nothing. He pulled out a flask and took a drink.

"That was one of the craziest battles I’ve ever been in." Llyris muttered.

"And it’s only the beginning." Archion growled.

Aryn nodded. "The barrier will hold the gate closed. For now, at least. Maybe for months, if we’re lucky."

"But it’s only a delay, isn’t it?" Llyris asked.

"Yes." Aryn said. "But time is also a weapon, if we use it well."

Archion stood, stretching his back. "I’m heading back to Ezico." he said.

Aryn stepped closer. "Thank you, Archion. I know you didn’t want to be here. But without you, we would’ve lost."

"It’s nothing. In the end, it wasn’t a bad fight." he replied.

Moments later, Archion turned away and began walking alone toward Ezico. The rest of the group remained silent for a few minutes before Aryn finally spoke.

"Let’s head home."

The group slowly made their way back along the dust-covered path in the red light of the setting sun. The first stars were already beginning to appear on the horizon, but they knew this victory wasn’t final.