ã€ŠSacrificed to Summon a Shattered Godã€‹


 1 - The Ritual

    Derzina trembled as the morning bell tolled, signalling her last moments were upon her. Rising from her bed, she looked in the mirror one last time. There wasn¡¯t a single brown hair out of place and her ceremonial robe of white-gold silk was pristine. Nothing had changed from the last time she¡¯d checked, yet she found herself curiously drawn to her reflection.

    This was the face of the sacrifice, of the hero. The one the speakers had chosen as the last hope of their city. And yet, try as she might, Derzina could only see herself. Tired and lifeless, yet otherwise ordinary. The fear that had filled her yesterday when the speakers chose her had faded. All that remained now was resignation.

    She wondered if this was how Paladins felt on the eve of battle. Or did their courage and honour sustain them? If so, perhaps it was lucky she¡¯d never have a chance to join them. She clearly wasn¡¯t brave enough; it was no wonder she was still an initiate.

    There was a knock at the door, and Derzina knew the time had come. She looked around her room to see if there was anything she¡¯d forgotten, but of course there was nothing; it was only her that they wanted.

    Taking her first step toward her death, she froze as the fear washed over her anew. She was supposed to just cast her life aside like this? In the moment the terror that inspired felt insurmountable; it was only by reminding herself again and again that she willed herself into action. For the first time everyone was depending on her and she couldn¡¯t be allowed to fail them, regardless of how she felt about it.

    The knocking started again, only to be cut short when she opened the door. Warden Crusirus drew back his hand and inspected her, his visage a grim mask. She¡¯d heard he¡¯d demanded to take her place, though she didn¡¯t know if it was out of compassion or a lust for glory. Either way, she¡¯d have been happy to let him take it.

    ¡°Are you prepared?¡± he asked, his voice steady and strong.

    ¡°I am,¡± Derzina said, trying to inject a little confidence into her words. Seeing the warden¡¯s stern, unmovable countenance helped.

    ¡°Then follow me, the speakers await you on the roof.¡±

    He turned his broad back on her, clad in white gilded armour of the speaker¡¯s personal guard, and marched off. In a daze, Derzina walked after him through the central temple¡¯s high-ceilinged corridors of polished white stone.

    She¡¯d always thought it was a marvellous building, the crowning jewel of the city. Yet now that she was finally here, she hadn¡¯t the slightest interest in it. In her detached state, it struck her as humorous. Had she the energy to spare, she probably would have laughed.

    Climbing the winding stairs through the central temple, they passed not a single soul. Everyone other than those deemed essential to the ritual were busy preparing for the last defence of the city. The only send-off Derzina would get was from the most senior members of the priesthood. Technically it was a great honour, yet it saddened her that none of her friends or family would be attending. Maybe that was for the best, this way they could imagine she¡¯d done her duty with courage.

    The honour bestowed on her made it all the more uncomfortable, for she was underserving of it. What had she, a mere initiate, done to earn this right? But there was no arguing with the speakers, their words were those of the Lady herself.

    They were all they had left of her now, after her fall two days before. It still didn¡¯t feel real to Derzina, there simply hadn¡¯t been time to process it. Especially with her own impending death.

    Perhaps she was lucky to have been chosen, she didn¡¯t know how they were supposed to go on with the light of their lives snuffed out. Though she wouldn¡¯t get to see it, Derzina prayed that her life would be used to destroy those responsible. Then she¡¯d be able to look on with satisfaction from the afterlife.

    Derzina and Warden Crusirus reached the roof to find the three speakers waiting for them inside the glass dome. A series of lenses focused the sun¡¯s light, focusing it into a golden beam in the centre where the Lady¡¯s avatar had stood to deliver her address.

    Seeing it up close gave Derzina an all new appreciation for its beauty, only now could she appreciate the intricate designs decorating the glass. And yet, it only reminded her of the loss they had all suffered. But she reminded herself that there was no time to mourn, they had more important matters to take care of.

    ¡°Initiate Derzina,¡± called Orvist, his voice carrying crystal clear across the rooftop, ¡°step forward.¡±

    Leaving her escort by the door, Derzina bowed her head and approached. Orvist moved aside to her let pass, and Derzina took up her position in the centre of the innermost circle. The pillar of light was blinding, and she struggled to keep her eyes open. Through the lenses¡¯ magic, the red light of the suns was turned to gold.

    ¡°Kneel in the Lady¡¯s light,¡± Orvist instructed.

    Derzina did as she was bid, lowering her head.

    ¡°Servant of Ortesia,¡± he continued, ¡°the Lady has taken note of your devotion and seen fit to bring you into the fold.¡±

    Though she knew the words were simply part of the ceremony, the lie was painful to hear. If Ortesia were still alive, Derzina would have remained an initiate. Closing her eyes, she reminded herself to keep it together as she struggles to keep the tears from welling up.

    Orvist placed his hand lightly on her head, a task normally given to the goddess herself. ¡°Do you swear to defend her city and uphold her honour?¡±

    ¡°I do.¡±

    ¡°Then, on the Lady¡¯s behalf, I bid you welcome to her service.¡± He removed his hand from her head and offered it to her. ¡°You knelt an initiate, now rise a Paladin of Ortesia.¡±

    Taking his hand, Derzina rose. Becoming a Paladin had been her dream as long as she could remember, yet her elevation brought her no joy. All it did was remind her of the goddess death and the duty she now faced. A part of her wondered if she was the first Paladin initiated after the death of their god. If so, it was a miserable deed and yet it was easily her most significant to date.

    Normally a Paladin would have left the circle to be given their armour and other accoutrements, but here becoming a Paladin was a mere formality. Standing before the sombre speakers, Derzina waited for death.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    ¡°Jarasin,¡± Orvist said, ¡°the avatar¡¯s remains.¡±

    The other speaker unwrapped the bundle clutched in her arms and presented it to Derzina. She took the three jagged shards of white-gold metal, all that was left of their god¡¯s mortal form, and clutched them reverently to her chest. The edges snagged in her clothing and damaged her robes but she paid it no mind.

    The speakers joined hands in a tight circle around her, and Tirvest, the last of their number, said, ¡°May the Lady be with you and with us.¡±

    They closed their eyes and concentrated, drawing forth every iota of divine energy they could muster. Derzina clenched her fists, bracing herself for the oncoming tide. And yet when the energy rushed into her as a wave of gold, she found her preparations completely insufficient.

    The first surge so overwhelmed her that her vision went completely white and she nearly lost consciousness. It raged through her body, searing hot and electrifying as it threatened to tear her apart. But she clung to her sense of duty and held herself together by force of will, she couldn¡¯t break. Not yet.

    She¡¯d recovered enough to faintly perceive the world around her when another infusion of energy, even greater than the first, overwhelmed her completely. The world fell away, leaving her with only the faintest sense of self and she knew this must be the end.

    With the last of her consciousness, she prayed that Ortesia, Lady of the Seeking light, would find her paltry vessel worthy. Everything went dark, and Derzina floated, unburdened by worldly sensation. She was wondering if this was death or if she¡¯d already died without realising it, when she heard a woman¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Most benevolent child,¡± it called, echoing through Derzina¡¯s mind, ¡°would you be so kind as to offer me your name?¡±

    Derzina¡¯s mind ground to a halt, overwhelmed by being spoken to by the Lady personally and within her own mind at that. That personal connection was the single greatest thing that had ever happened to her, even her imminent death seemed of little importance beside it.

    Now that she was here, with a chance to become a part of her god like no one else before her, being afraid of what was to come seemed silly. She felt only a mixture of joy and awe at the idea now, such that it was difficult to think. It was only the knowledge that she¡¯d been asked a question and the Lady expected a response that brought her back to sensibility.

    As her muddled mind tried to remember her name, it occurred to her that there was something off about the voice. It was similar to the one she¡¯d heard at each of the Lady¡¯s speeches, but distinctly different. And with that realisation, her joy was snuffed out in an instant leaving only confusion in its wake.

    ¡°I am Derzina Omun, and if it¡¯s not too impolite of me, may I ask your name in return?¡±

    She fell back on the lifetime of manners instilled in her, especially when it came to a god. Even if this wasn¡¯t the Lady, she didn¡¯t want to offend whatever magical entity was addressing her. Whoever they might be.

    ¡°Of course, I am Atasimon, who was once called the Lady of the Twisted Veil. Though I must confess that I¡¯m confused as to why you¡¯d ask for my name after going to all this trouble to summon me.¡±

    ¡°Atasimon?¡± Orestia¡¯s sister? How could that be? ¡°Forgive my ignorance, but I had heard you fell to save your sister when the gods warred against the Demon King.¡±

    ¡°You are correct. But thanks to your efforts, I am reborn once more. I cannot thank you enough for restoring me, that I might see my sister once more.¡±

    This couldn¡¯t be true, there had to be some mistake here. If this was Atasimon, then was Ortesia gone forever? Derzina suddenly found it hard to breathe and swallowed to stop herself retching.

    ¡°No,¡± Derzina said within her head, unintentionally speaking to Atasimon, ¡°she can¡¯t be gone. There must have been a mistake.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± The goddess replied, perplexed.

    ¡°Please tell me there¡¯s been a mistake, Lady Ortesia can¡¯t be gone.¡±

    Atasimon¡¯s reply cut through her thoughts like a thunderbolt, rendering her concerns meaningless before the goddess¡¯ will. ¡°Explain yourself this instant. What¡¯s this about my sister? What¡¯s happened to her?¡±

    Derzina desperately didn¡¯t want to tell Atasimon the truth, but she could see no way around it; she had to find out eventually. ¡°My Lady, I don¡¯t quite know how to say this, but your sister fell in battle against the invaders.¡±

    There was a long, pregnant pause. ¡°When?¡±

    ¡°As far as we know, it was early yesterday morning. That was the last time any of us saw her alive. I¡¯m sorry for your loss, know that every citizen grieves with you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Atasimon said, sounding like she really meant it. ¡°Is that why you summoned me?¡±

    ¡°Not precisely, my lady. In truth, we were trying to summon your sister. I mean no disrespect, but I haven¡¯t the faintest idea how it could be that we revived you instead from her remains.¡±

    Derzina spoke without engaging much of her mind, between losing Lady Ortesia forever and being connected with her sister like this she¡¯d gone numb. While reviving Atasimon was still of great importance and may have felt like a dream to some, Derzina¡¯s grief transformed it into a nightmare. One that gripped her tight, sealing away her sensibilities.

    ¡°That, at least, I can explain,¡± Atasimon said, her voice was tinged with sadness but she seemed to be keeping it together far better than Derzina was. ¡°I was only able to save my sister¡¯s life by merging my form with hers. Whatever remained of her must have been primarily derived from me. I realize this must be disappointing, but I swear I will do everything I can for you and your people in my sister¡¯s place.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, I¡¯m sure they will be most grateful for your aid, as I am.¡± They were sure to be as disappointed as Derzina was that their Lady was gone for good, but the situation was too dire for them to refuse any aid out of sentimentality. Reminding herself of what was at stake, Derzina set aside her grief and found new life within herself. It wasn¡¯t much, but it would get her through these last moments of her existence.

    ¡°If you are prepared, then I ask that you complete the ritual and assume my mortal form. I offer it to you freely, so that you might save our city.¡± Derzina could see no reason to put it off any longer. In fact, she wasn¡¯t sure why Atasimon hadn¡¯t done so already. Had she just wanted one last chance to converse with her future vessel?

    ¡°Are you certain? I can¡¯t imagine someone else inhabiting your body is a very pleasant thought, though given my circumstances I can hardly afford to be picky.¡±

    ¡°I understand your hesitation, but it is our only option, my lady. Don¡¯t feel bad on my account, I volunteered for this and have already made my peace.¡± Derzina hoped that the god couldn¡¯t tell she was lying.

    ¡°You volunteered to bring back your revered Lady, not her sister. Thus, I ask once more; are you certain?¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± Derzina replied, without hesitation. This was still her city¡¯s best chance of survival.

    ¡°Very well, then I shall delay no longer.¡±

    Derzina braced herself, whatever was to come must be even more intense than what came before it. Being the conduit for a god¡¯s entrance into the world had to be one of the most extraordinary things a mortal could experience.

    The central temple slowly faded into view around Derzina, though a dark haze covered all. She stood in the centre of the circle, with the speakers clustered in front of her. Their brows were furrowed and they appeared to be speaking with considerable excitement, though Derzina was deaf to it all.

    She wondered if this was how it ended, one last glimpse before Atasimon took over completely. Whatever happened from here on out was in the gods¡¯ hands, beings with capabilities she could only dream of. Reassured and surprised by how peaceful her end was, Derzina waited for the last vestiges of her being to die out.

    She heard herself, as if from a great distance, say something to the speakers. Eyes widened as they subsided into stunned silence and the world came rushing back. Colour and sound returned, leaving Derzina more confused than ever.

    ¡°Well?¡± Orvist asked.

    Derzina cleared her throat, the speaker¡¯s disapproval spurring her to action. ¡°Well what, speaker?¡±

    ¡°Atasimon spoke through you; she said you would explain what has happened.¡±

    ¡°From what I understand, when you attempted to revive our Lady, you instead revived her sister who became part of her during- ¡°The speaker raised his hand, interrupting her.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m aware. And is Lady Atasimon willing to aid us?¡±

    Derzina nodded.

    ¡°Excellent, then we have not a moment to spare. Accompany the goddess to the postern, Commander Miriten awaits you.¡±

    ¡°Um,¡± Derzina said in her mind, ¡°did you hear what he said, my lady?¡±

    ¡°Indeed. Do you know the way to the postern?¡± The goddess¡¯ voice was eerily calm, almost devoid of emotion.

    ¡°I do.¡±

    ¡°Then you will direct me.¡±

    Colour drained from the world around Derzina once more and, with a startled cry, her body leapt off the temple roof.

 2 - Sally Forth

    A veil of shadows surrounded Derzina, from which extruded long limbs that carried her safely down the high temple¡¯s wall and across the city¡¯s rooftops in a series of leaps. Soaring above her city, Derzina¡¯s terror soon turned to joy as she beheld the familiar buildings laid out beneath her. The ordered streets of white-gold buildings, interspersed with statues depicting the gods that were all that stood between mankind and destruction.

    Derzina mused that now they¡¯d need to erect one for Atasimon, now that she¡¯d taken her sister¡¯s place as protector of the city. Assuming they survived long enough for that. But before Derzina could think of what was to come, there were more pressing matters to consider.

    ¡°My lady, I have something I must ask. Though of trifling importance compared to the demons on our doorstep, I¡¯m utterly bewildered by my survival.¡±

    ¡°Was your survival ever in doubt?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Derzina replied immediately, regretting her snap response almost as quickly. ¡°Or so we thought. They said they were sure a mortal body could not contain the essence of a god for long, let alone hold both the mortal and the divine.¡±

    ¡°And they were right.¡±

    ¡°But¡ª¡°

    Atasimon didn¡¯t let her finish. ¡°However, what they brought forth was only a fragment of my former power. Your body should be able to contain it for the time being.¡±

    Derzina hoped the goddess was right, they wouldn¡¯t be much use to the city otherwise. ¡°What happens to you if I can¡¯t endure it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll have no choice but to disperse, along with my sister¡¯s remains. Without you providing a vessel, I won¡¯t be able to hold myself together any longer.¡±

    Though it didn¡¯t help them in the slightest, it reassured Derzina to know that her sacrifice wasn¡¯t for nothing. For the first time in her life, she felt truly useful to her people. Even her only contribution was offering her body as a vessel to allow a goddess to influence the world once more.

    Travelling quickly through the air, they soon arrived at the postern. Visible only from this side, the narrow gate was designed to be easily defensible while allowing the city¡¯s soldiers to venture out without opening the main gate.

    A small company of Paladins, arrayed in their shining plate of white and gold, awaited them by the base of the wall. Commander Miriten, distinguished the stylized wave of light on his breastplate, watched from the front as they alighted before him.

    Though Derzina had never met him personally, she¡¯d seen him many times and he was known to all initiates. A talented warrior and leader with many years of experience, he was the nominal commander of the city¡¯s entire military might, having assumed Ortesia position after her untimely death.

    ¡°What is this strange magic?¡± He asked, narrowing his eyes at them. ¡°Can you truly be Lady Ortesia?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, commander,¡± Derzina said. ¡°There was too little of her left to revive. But the ritual wasn¡¯t in vain, instead it revived her sister; Lady Atasimon.¡±

    The commander adopted a neutral expression and, with a sniff, he donned his helmet. ¡°Her sister?¡± he echoed. Looking Derzina over, he sighed. ¡°I suppose we should be grateful that the ritual succeeded at all. Is Lady Atasimon willing to lead us into battle?¡±

    Derzina nodded, before looking inward to converse with the god sharing her body. ¡°What now?¡±

    ¡°Tell me briefly of the threat we face.¡±

    ¡°A vast army of demons, at least forty thousand. Between our walls and our departed Lady, it wouldn¡¯t normally have been much of a threat. But when she went out on her own to get a better look at them, she was gravely injured.¡± Derzina paused to collect herself, sorrow threatening to overwhelm her. ¡°Such that she died before she could even make it back into the city.¡±

    ¡°Even after all this time,¡± Atasimon said, sounding no less sad than Derzina felt, ¡°I see she has made no effort to curb her reckless nature. That damned fool.¡±Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.

    A reproach immediately rose within Derzina¡¯s mind, only checked by the knowledge that Atasimon didn¡¯t sound like she meant it badly. She wouldn¡¯t stand for anyone insulting the memory of her Lady so brazenly, even if they were a god. ¡°Is there anything else you¡¯d like to know about the disposition of the demons¡¯ forces?¡±

    ¡°How close are they to the city?¡±

    ¡°Just outside the walls. From what I¡¯ve heard, they¡¯re preparing their assault as we speak.¡±

    ¡°Why did you let them get so close? Are you not the defenders of this city? What have you been doing?¡±

    ¡°After the Lady¡¯s fall, the speakers decided it best that we wait until after they attempted their ritual. If they were capable of defeating her, then there is likely little we can do against them without divine assistance.¡±

    ¡°I see, then I shall have to do my utmost to turn the tide.¡±

    Without warning, Atasimon spoke through her. ¡°Know that your goddess speaks,¡± she said, though her melodic, booming voice made the shift abundantly clear. ¡°I shall lead you into battle in my sister¡¯s place, but first, I require a weapon.¡± She extended her hand toward Miriten. ¡°Hand me your dagger, commander.¡±

    ¡°Are you certain, my lady?¡± he asked, hesitating for an instant before using her title. ¡°I can easily furnish you with a spear, sword or any other weapon you may require.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate the offer, but your dagger will suffice.¡±

    He handed it over and Atasimon raised it up to eye level. After a brief inspection, she nodded to herself and let her hand fall by her side. ¡°Now then,¡± she said, addressing the gathered Paladins at large, ¡°as we are short on time, I shall keep this brief. These invaders have taken Ortesia from us, and they shall pay with their blood. Will you join me in visiting ruin upon these loathsome creatures?¡±

    A hush fell over the gathered Paladins, their eyes wide with surprise. Then, beginning with the commander, a wordless cry of rage sprung from the throat of every man and woman present. Derzina would have joined them without a thought, were she able.

    Atasimon stepped forward and the crowd parted to let her through. ¡°Prepare yourselves,¡± she said, ¡°I will hide us from the enemy¡¯s sight as we emerge, so that we might catch them off guard. Refrain from using the power granted to you by my sister until we are revealed, then fight for all you are worth.¡± A dark haze fell over each soldier present, including Derzina. It rendered them indistinct blurs, though none seemed bothered by it.

    Atasimon gestured to the nearest Paladin and said, ¡°Open the gate.¡±

    Two of the men grabbed the gate¡¯s handles and slid it silently into the wall, opening a gap barely large enough for two people to stand abreast. And thus, without further preamble, they sighted the most forward elements of the demon army standing right before the wall.

    At first glance, the only thing that separated them from the human¡¯s militiamen were the patches of colourful skin visible through gaps in their armour and the small horns visible on those few who were unhelmed. It was comprised for the most part of varying shades of yellow, with a few blue skins here and there.

    Derzina didn¡¯t know what the different colours signified, if anything, and she didn¡¯t care. Whatever the colour of their skin, they would die for their crimes and water the barren earth with their blood.

    The dark haze of Atasimon¡¯s enchantment clung to them as they drew closer to the demons, and to Derzina¡¯s surprise their approach went unnoticed. Atasimon walked within arm¡¯s reach of the nearest demon, a lanky yellow-skinned brute, and plunged her borrowed weapon into his throat. Burying it up the hilt, she ripped it free with a spurt of blood and moved on.

    The demons around them, alarmed by the sudden death of their comrade, readied their weapons and started to close ranks. But Atasimon was already among them. She left the Paladins behind and moved unseen amongst the demons in a flurry of bloody carnage.

    Such was the alacrity with which Atasimon dispatched the demons, that Derzina had trouble following what was happening. Demons lashed out, fled, or tried to cover their exposed flesh but still they died.

    Her knife lodged in bone and she left it behind, making use of whatever weapons she could lay hands on. And regardless of her methods, their foes fell by the moment until their ranks were broken and Atasimon was surrounded by the dead or dying.

    But still the goddess was unsatisfied, and she ran down the demons as they retreated toward the rest of their forces. After another slaughter, Atasimon left her spear in the back of a demon and stopped to survey the battlefield.

    The enemy was now in full retreat, and Derzina decided now was probably a good time to speak. ¡°Should we not fall back as well, my lady?¡± They were now a considerable distance from the walls and the copious bloodshed had sated her righteous anger for the moment.

    ¡°No,¡± her voice boomed. ¡°Not until I have slaughtered them all.¡±

    ¡°But what of the others, my lady? This is beyond any of us mortals.¡±

    Atasimon looked back to see the gleaming ranks of Paladins, stripped of their concealment and somewhat diminished, far behind. ¡°It matters not. If need be, I shall continue alone.¡±

    As Atasimon watched, the centre of the demons¡¯ formation rallied and turned to face her. She waited for them to approach but they simply stood there, facing in her direction until their ranks parted to admit a small group of soldiers.

    A bodyguard of black-armoured demons with broad shields surrounded a central figure. Atasimon uttered a vile curse and Derzina realized, a moment before Atasimon took up her stolen spear and charged them, that this must be the demon who¡¯d slain Ortesia.

 3 - Duel with the Demon Lord

    With his deep purple cape flowing behind him, the demon¡¯s leader stepped forward to meet Atasimon. A sonorous voice emerged from beneath the bestial visage of his helmet that carried easily to the goddess¡¯ ears. ¡°It appears I am blessed with the most outrageous fortune. To slay two gods in one day? The Demon King favours his champion beyond belief.¡±

    Hefting his crescent-bladed halberd in one hand, he pointed the tip right at Atasimon, despite her concealment. ¡°Petty tricks will not avail you. Come and meet your end at the hands of Meztraxia, rightful lord of all demons.¡±

    Head tilted haughtily back; he maintained his pose until she was almost within striking distance. In a single stride, he drew back his halberd and brought the blade crashing down on Atasimon.

    The haze that surrounded the goddess darkened and the halberd cleaved into its now tangible form. Where the darkness tore, clinging strands sprouted and wrapped around the weapon, ensnaring it.

    Twisting her body, Atasimon went around the haft of Meztraxia¡¯s trapped halberd and stabbed into his right armpit. It punched straight through the mail protecting the areas his plate didn¡¯t cover, and continued through to his vital organs.

    She followed up with a quick thrust at his face, and Meztraxia, releasing his grip on his weapon, caught the shaft of Atasimon¡¯s spear in his gauntlet. The hardwood shattered in his grasp and Atasimon dropped her now useless stick.

    ¡°Well?¡± Meztraxia asked, pulling his halberd free from the strands of decaying shadow. ¡°Have you run out of tricks already, godling?¡±

    Despite the wound Atasimon had dealt him, the Demon Lord hadn¡¯t shed a single drop of blood. Stepping back, Atasimon frantically searched the area while trying not to take her eyes off Meztraxia.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect much, but this is just pathetic.¡± The Demon Lord shook his head, and a torrent of dark purple liquid sprayed from his gauntlet. Atasimon threw herself to the side, and instead of hitting her dead centre it caught only her leg.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    The liquid resolved into a swarm of tiny armoured forms, each with vicious claws. They wrapped around her limb, hardening while others formed chains anchoring her to the ground. She pulled with all her strength but the demon¡¯s minions held firm.

    Meztraxia raised his weapon again and the same shadowy veil that stopped him before appeared around the goddess. ¡°That won¡¯t save you,¡± the Demon Lord said, ¡°not this time.¡±

    Glowing purple, his halberd struck Atasimon¡¯s defence and the shadowy veil melted away upon contact. Had she not contorted her body to get out of the way she would have sliced in twain, as it was the heavy blade still left a deep gash in her chest.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Atasimon muttered within her mind to Derzina, who woke from her stupor.

    Taking in the situation, she was about to forgive the goddess for her defeat when she realized that wasn¡¯t what she meant. The remaining shreds of Atasimon¡¯s veil reformed around her leg, just above where Meztraxia¡¯s magic held her, in a thin band. It tightened, forming razor-sharp blades, and cut off her leg.

    Ducking beneath the Demon Lord¡¯s next strike, Atasimon used her veil to carry herself across the ground. She fled toward the city, leaving a trail of blood behind her. Seeing their goddess retreat, the surviving Paladins ran for the postern.

    ¡°I¡¯m beginning to see how my sister was defeated,¡± Atasimon said within her mind, sounding exhausted.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Derzina asked. She could recall only scattered fragments of the battle.

    ¡°He possesses a strange power, capable of negating my magic entirely. I¡¯ve never encountered it¡¯s like before. Even the Demon King wasn¡¯t capable of such things.¡±

    ¡°Then we are doomed.¡± If he was beyond even the Demon King, then they hadn¡¯t the faintest hope of defeating him.

    ¡°Not necessarily,¡± Atasimon said, nearing the gate, ¡°potent as his power may be, it¡¯s far from unassailable. From what I saw, it either has a very limited range or he can maintain it for only a short span of time.¡±

    In a flurry of shadow, she set down beside the gate. ¡°Now, I must rest. I shall return as soon as I am able, but until then you must do your utmost to survive.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± Derzina would have continued, but she could sense that Atasimon had already gone dormant. Control of her body, and all its associated sensations, came rushing back to her. She experienced an instant of incredible pain, in which her leg appeared to be aflame, before falling unconscious.

 4 - Invasion

    Derzina awoke in a stiff bed with white linen sheets. Judging from the sunlight streaming in through the window, it was already afternoon. How long had she been asleep?

    She was looking around the room when she noticed the bandages wrapped around her missing leg, and she bit back a scream. Forcing herself to stop and take a deep breath, she tried to stay calm. She was still alive, and despite the pain that came flooding back, she had to go on.

    Even though she¡¯d come out the encounter against the demon a cripple, she¡¯d still been exceptionally fortunate. Many of those who¡¯d gone with her had perished, and by all rights she should have been among them. Her survival was nothing short of a miracle. The same went for the goddess who dwelt within her.

    She tried reaching out to Atasimon, but the goddess didn¡¯t stir. Well, if the goddess couldn¡¯t help her, she was just going to have to make her own way for now. ¡°Hello?¡± Derzina called.

    She heard footsteps and Speaker Orvist stepped into her room. Pulling up a chair, he sat down beside her bed. ¡°May I ask whom I¡¯m addressing?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me, Derzina.¡±

    ¡°I see. May I speak with Lady Atasimon? We have urgent matters to discuss.¡±

    Derzina bowed her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but she said she needed to rest after she fought the Demon Lord who slew Ortesia.¡±

    ¡°Mm, yes, I heard about that. Tell me more about that, specifically how the goddess was defeated.¡±

    ¡°I struggled to follow their battle, but he possessed magic that was capable of nullifying the goddess¡¯ power.¡±

    Orvist stared at her, frowning as if trying to discern something about her. ¡°Are you certain?¡±

    ¡°Absolutely, as was Lady Atasimon.¡±

    ¡°That is most concerning, though it explains how he was able to overcome both our Lady and Lady Atasimon.¡±

    ¡°But,¡± Derzina added, sensing his growing dismay, ¡°Lady Atasimon said we still a chance of defeating him. All that¡¯s required of us, is to hold out until she recovers.¡±

    ¡°I see. Unfortunately, that will prove rather difficult, as the demons have already breached the walls.¡±

    Derzina sat bolt upright in her bed. ¡°What? What of the Paladins?¡±

    ¡°They are fighting as best they can, though they¡¯ve had no more success against the Demon Lord than Lady Atasimon did. Currently they still hold the temples, but it seems only a matter of time until they are forced to retreat here to the central temple.¡±

    ¡°Speaker, I mean no disrespect, but shouldn¡¯t you be out there helping them?¡±

    With a sigh, he slumped in his chair and seemed to deflate. ¡°I spent all I that remained to me of the goddess¡¯ power bringing Lady Atasimon into this world. Without it, I¡¯m just an old man. If the enemy reach us here, I shall do my duty.¡± He chuckled bitterly. ¡°Though I fear I will present little obstacle.¡±

    ¡°It will be okay,¡± Derzina said, ¡°the goddess will return and turn back the demons.¡± She couldn¡¯t allow herself to think otherwise.

    ¡°I hope for all our sakes that you are proven right. But until she returns, it seems all we can do is pray.¡±

    Derzina wasn¡¯t satisfied with that, she was already chafing at her inaction. There had to be something she could do. ¡°Then I¡¯m just supposed to lie here and wait?¡±

    ¡°What else do you suggest? Can you walk?¡±

    Pushing herself out of bed, Derzina managed to propel herself in an awkward hop. ¡°Barely.¡±

    ¡°Then I can¡¯t imagine you¡¯ll be much use, best that you wait here where it¡¯s safe.¡±

    ¡°I understand that it¡¯s impertinent of me to ask, but can I at least see what¡¯s happening? I assume it¡¯s safe enough for now.¡±

    ¡°Very well, it shouldn¡¯t put the goddess¡¯ vessel in any danger. But the moment a threat presents itself, we¡¯re retreating to the inner sanctum, understood?¡±

    ¡°I understand, Speaker.¡±

    She took a few hops toward the door, before Orvist offered her his arm. ¡°Here, you¡¯ll never get there at this rate.¡±

    Swallowing, she took his arm and limped out of the room. A few sets of stairs later, they were beneath the glass dome atop the roof once more. After stopping to catch her breath, Derzina looked out across the city.

    There were a number of fires, concentrated a large breach in the western wall, but they weren¡¯t spreading. Derzina assumed the city¡¯s predominately stone construction would keep it safe from any threat of a large-scale fire, and she wondered why the demons were bothering.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    Were they already so confident in their victory? It wasn¡¯t unreasonable given their progress, but it only made Derzina hate them all the more. These vile creatures were befouling the only home she¡¯d ever known. And for what? To settle an old grudge? She wished her ancestors and the gods had succeeded in wiping the demons out when they¡¯d had the chance.

    The thought that others were out there fighting for the very fate of their city while she stood her watching turned her stomach, but there was nothing to be done. She looked down at her missing limb, even if she still had it, there would have been little she could do to help. Despite the goddess dwelling within her, she was a Paladin in name only with no more power than any other citizen.

    Looking down at her leg once more filled Derzina with dread, and she could feel the tears welling up in her eyes, but she forced herself to stare at it. She couldn¡¯t let something like this beat her, not while her fellow Paladins were enduring far worse. And the more she stared at her bandaged leg, the stranger it became.

    The bandages were pristine, without the slightest sign of blood and she felt no pain. It was impossible without magic and the Speaker, who was now without power, seemed to be the only one here. Which meant the goddess must have done something to ease Derzina¡¯s suffering.

    It wasn¡¯t much in the grand scheme of things, but the fact that the goddess had thought of her in the midst of all that chaos made her smile. Silly as it was to care for something so trivial when they were in the midst of a disaster, she¡¯d never felt more special.

    ¡°Are you satisfied, initiate?¡± Orvist asked, jolting Derzina from her reverie.

    ¡°Yes, Speaker,¡± she replied, before adding in a softer voice, ¡°though I¡¯m a Paladin now.¡±

    ¡°Right, of course. Forgive me, I meant no disrespect. Shall we head back inside then, Paladin?¡±

    ¡°I suppose we should.¡±

    They were going down the stairs when Derzina heard a great cry spring up from a multitude of throats and rushed back to the roof. A dark wave of black and purple clad demons poured forth into the street, with only a thin line of Paladins supported by a few militiamen to hold them.

    Derzina prayed for Atasimon¡¯s return, pleading within herself to the goddess. But there was no reply, Lady Atasimon remained dormant.

    ¡°Derzina,¡± Orvist shouted, seizing her by the arm, ¡°come with me this instant.¡±

    Defying the speaker went against the habit of a lifetime, yet Derzina couldn''t turn away from the people of her city being slaughtered. The thought of them dying out here, and dying they were before the demons¡¯ superior numbers, while she cowered in safety was appalling.

    Orvist pulled on her arm, hard. ¡°Listen to me; whatever you see out there doesn¡¯t matter, what¡¯s important is that you do your duty. And your duty is to safeguard the goddess¡¯ vessel. It is the only hope for our city.¡±

    ¡°I know, I know, but¡­¡± Derzina could think of nothing that would persuade Orvist, but still couldn¡¯t let this happen. To do so would mean admitting she was completely helpless and she¡¯d rather die than surrender to such an outrageous fate.

    She felt the foreign essence of the goddess within her stir, yet she couldn¡¯t sense Lady Atasimon¡¯s presence. Instead, a portion of the divine entity flowed into the part that was Derzina and power surged through her.

    Shadow sprouted from her stump, writhing and shifting until it formed a leg. She tried moving it, and it flexed just as if it were her real leg. It seemed that even while the goddess was asleep, she still wished to aid Derzina. Deciding that this must mean the goddess wanted her to fight, Derzina ran back down the stairs on her new leg to the nearest window.

    Deaf to the speaker¡¯s cries, she climbed out into open space, trusting that the goddess¡¯ power would keep her safe. The shadows grew, enveloping her like a cloak. Her magical adornment clung to the wall and supported her as she descended the sheer surface.

    The sounds of clashing steel and dying men grew louder as she reached the street, and Derzina paused to consider how to proceed. Even with divine assistance, she was unarmed and clad only in her ceremonial robe. Communing with the goddess, or rather the portion of the goddess¡¯ power that had been lent to her, Derzina pleaded for a weapon.

    In answer to her prayers, shadow swirled around her hand and coalesced into a sword of darkness. It was far from the shining blade she¡¯d imagined herself wielding one day in Lady Ortesia¡¯s service, but it would serve her purpose. Clutching her new weapon in hand, she rushed to meet the enemy

    She called out to the faltering militiamen ahead, her voice loud and commanding. ¡°Stand firm!¡±

    The white-uniformed men and women tightened their ranks, jabbing at the demons with their long spears with renewed vigour. Yet they still continued to get the worst of it. No matter their courage, it seemed they were simply no match for the swarming demons.

    Seizing a flag from its place beside the central temple, Derzina used the shadows to scale the wall once more and bypassed the formation of friendly troops. She held the flag high and plunged into massed demons, sword leading.

    All her training up to this point had given her no small amount of skill with the sword, but skill alone availed her little against such numbers. She impaled the first demon who came at her, her shadowy weapon passing easily through a gap in his armour.

    And she would have been slain in kind by the fallen demon¡¯s fellow if not for the shadows enveloping her. They shot out like living things, snaring the oncoming blade just as they had against the Demon Lord. Only this time, there was no mysterious magic to stop them.

    Supernaturally-sharp blade bared, Derzina cut through their ranks. Forgoing defence entirely, she focused only on slaughter while trusting in the goddess¡¯ protection to keep her safe. Once close to a score had fallen to her blade, the demons broke and ran, and Derzina stood unharmed. It seemed she¡¯d been wise to put her faith in Atasimon¡¯s gift.

    A ragged cheer sprung up among the humans who were still standing, while those nearest Derzina looked upon her with awe. Sensing that they were in need of direction, she planted her flag on the ground and said, ¡°Follow me, we must defend the central temple.¡±

    She walked off, followed at first by a slow trickle of people but eventually the entire crowd was swept up in her wake.

    Knowing that they were willing to follow her was empowering, even more so than her victory over the demons had been. Not only were people attention to her, they were willing to put their trust in her. Uplifted, Derzina waited by the doors until everyone was inside before barring the entrance.

    That they were falling back to their last line of defence so quickly did not speak well of their chances, but Derzina swore to herself that she would protect the central temple. It was the most defensible structure in the city, it would hold. It had to.

 5 - Eye of the Storm

    Most of the survivors didn¡¯t make it far inside before stopping to rest or tend to their wounded. It pained Derzina to see her fellow citizens so injured, and she was giving them what little aid she could offer when one of the few remaining Paladins approached her. They removed their dinted, much scarred helmet to reveal the familiar face of Yormis, a senior Paladin that Derzina had trained under.

    ¡°Derzina?¡± she asked. ¡°What¡¯s happened to you? I heard that you were part of a ritual to revive our Lady, but I see little sign of her presence upon you.¡±

    Derzina looked at herself. Wisps of shadow, alongside the blood of herself and her foes, darkened her once white robes. ¡°They couldn¡¯t bring back our Lady, instead they brought back Lady Atasimon who dwelt within her. It is the mark of her power you see upon me. She granted it to me, that I might fight alongside you.¡±

    ¡°And I thank you for your aid, without you we may have been lost, but why did Lady Atasimon not join us herself?¡±

    ¡°She was wounded fighting the demon¡¯s leader and forced to rest in order to regain her strength. I had resigned myself to awaiting her return when Lady Atasimon saw fit to grant me a measure of her power. Without it, I would never have been able to join the battle.¡±

    Glancing at where the flesh of Derzina¡¯s leg met shadow, Yormis winced. ¡°Well, even if we have only the goddess¡¯ mercy to thank, I¡¯m most grateful for what you did. We all are.¡± She smiled. ¡°After I heard about the ritual, I feared we¡¯d never get the chance to fight side-by-side, but it seems my concerns were ill-founded.¡±

    Derzina scarcely remembered anything of the battle, had they encountered each other in chaos? Despite wracking her memory, she hadn¡¯t the slightest idea. She decided it didn¡¯t matter, they¡¯d still been together in spirit.

    ¡°It appears there was a modicum of good fortune to be found amidst the calamity that grips our city,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°Well said. Perhaps this is an omen that the tides are turning and our triumph is forthcoming.¡± Yormis¡¯ lips twisted into a bitter smile. ¡°Though somehow I doubt that. Do you mind if I speak frankly of our chances? I wouldn¡¯t want to break your spirit.¡±

    ¡°No, go ahead. I¡¯ve already resolved to do what I can to help, regardless of how bleak things look.¡± Derzina spoke with courage, and she was surprised to find that she believed what she was saying.

    ¡°From what I can tell, we¡¯re one of the last pockets of real resistance left in the city. And no matter what we do, I fear it won¡¯t be enough. Were it an option, I¡¯d have abandoned the city with anyone able enough to flee as soon as the walls fell. But I¡¯d rather die fighting than wither away out there.¡±

    ¡°Is it truly so bad? We turned them back once, what¡¯s to say we can¡¯t do it again?¡±

    ¡°Though we sent them running, too few of us remain. At this rate, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if there wasn¡¯t a soul left in the city by morning.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s first impulse was to refute Yormis¡¯ grim prediction, but she couldn¡¯t deny that they were in dire straits. Having witnessed only a fraction of the slaughter Yormis must have experienced while fighting in the city, it was easy to imagine how one might fall to despair. ¡°The day may be dark, but we must not lose hope. Lady Atasimon will return and she shall destroy them.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, it¡¯s too early to give up. Perhaps the goddess will still be able to save us.¡±

    She clasped Derzina¡¯s shoulder as she passed, and muttered, ¡°Us lucky few.¡±

    Derzina watched her former mentor go, her heart growing heavier by the moment. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this,¡± Derzina said, quietly talking to herself, ¡°we have to. We just have to hold until the goddess returns.¡±

    Shaking off her dark thoughts, she went to organise the surviving soldiers. It wasn¡¯t really her place to do so, but no one else was doing it and she doubted anyone would try to stop her.

    ¡°You there,¡± she said, accosting a man around her own age who was staring at the wall with unfocused eyes.

    He blinked, slowly turning his head toward her. ¡°Me?¡±

    Derzina stood up straight, suddenly feeling self-conscious about her soiled robe. ¡°That¡¯s right. What¡¯s your name?¡±If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°Bonth.¡±

    ¡°And you¡¯re with the militia?¡±

    He looked down at his white uniform and mail coat. ¡°Yeah.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s in charge around here?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯d be Captain Norshe.¡±

    ¡°And where can I find the captain?¡±

    Bonth shrugged. ¡°Somewhere in the street, he¡¯s dead.¡± His eyes focused on her, and he seemed to truly see her for the first time. ¡°Who are you, anyway?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m Derzina¡­¡± She paused, fumbling for how best to explain her position. ¡°I¡¯m the one who was sacrificed to bring back Lady Ortesia.¡±

    ¡°You look pretty alive to me. And I don¡¯t see our Lady anywhere. Are you sure you didn¡¯t get hit on the head or something?¡±

    ¡°Stop with this nonsense, surely you heard about the ritual the speakers attempted.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right. That was you?¡± He looked down at her leg, apparently noticing the shadowy limb for the first time.

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°So, the ritual was a failure then, or what?¡±

    ¡°Partially. The speakers revived her sister instead, Lady Atasimon.¡±

    ¡°Huh. Where¡¯s she then?¡±

    ¡°She dwells within me, though she¡¯s been asleep since we sortied out to strike at the demons.¡±

    Bonth scratched his head. ¡°Damn funny time to be sleeping.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like she has a choice in the matter, she was gravely wounded in battle against the Demon Lord who leads their army.¡±

    ¡°Oh. That¡¯s a pity, we could certainly use the help.¡± His voice was cold and dull, as if this was all someone else¡¯s problem.

    ¡°Lady Atasimon will be among us again soon.¡± She felt like she¡¯d been saying that a lot as of late. ¡°Until then, we just have to hold. Can you do that?¡±

    He mumbled something, and Derzina asked again, louder this time. ¡°Can you do it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± His face showed little emotion, but there was a measure of steel in his words that was absent before.

    ¡°Good. We can still hold; everyone just has to do their part. Now then, let¡¯s see about getting things in order around here. Go and see if you can find any surviving officers.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± Bonth asked, shrinking back.

    ¡°Of course. Now get to it, time is running out.¡±

    Head low, he climbed slowly to his feet and moved off into the crowd. Derzina wondered if he was actually going to do as he was told, or if he was just trying to get away from her.

    She¡¯d like to believe the former, surely spirits weren¡¯t so low around here that soldiers would shirk their duty when they were on the brink of defeat. But she couldn¡¯t be certain, not after the hell they¡¯d been through. The hell the demons had put them through.

    Sitting down in Bonth¡¯s place, Derzina¡¯s eyelids grew leaden as she waited. If she¡¯d had nothing to worry about, she¡¯d have drifted off then and there. But as it was, her concerns for the future kept her awake until Bonth returned with a bandaged soldier by his side.

    ¡°I checked everywhere, but this was the only captain I could find.¡±

    ¡°Captain Fornon, at your service,¡± the older, moustachioed man said. ¡°I understand you¡¯re trying to organise what¡¯s left of us.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m-¡°

    Fornon raised his hand to interrupt her. ¡°Derzina. Yes, Bonth already told me your story.¡±

    ¡°Story? Are you saying you don¡¯t believe me?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, I meant no such thing. I was there when you broke the demons¡¯ formation, I¡¯d be a fool not to believe you.¡±

    ¡°Good. Then you¡¯ll help?¡±

    ¡°As much as I can,¡± he said, hand held protectively over his injured side.

    Noticing his deathly pale skin, it occurred to Derzina that he might be more seriously wounded than she first thought. ¡°I¡¯d greatly appreciate your help, assuming you can manage it.¡±

    ¡°No need to worry on my account, I won¡¯t slow you down.¡± He began to turn, stopping short to wince. ¡°So long as it doesn¡¯t require me to run anywhere, at least. I can certainly get this rabble in order.¡±

    ¡°Excellent, then let¡¯s get to it.¡± She wasn¡¯t sure how much she¡¯d be able to help the captain, but she¡¯d sat around long enough; it was time to get moving again. Following the injured officer, she watched as he spoke a few words to each person or group and they immediately moved to obey. At some point Bonth went off with some other militiamen he recognized, but there was so much going on that Derzina barely even noticed.

    He issued them one of several different tasks; find out what supplies they had, count how many could still fight, relay to others that they were assembling in the central chamber, and a number of other straightforward assignments. There was nothing particularly remarkable about the process, and Derzina felt sure she could have come up with the same ideas, but as a result a palpable change swept across the gathered survivors.

    They held their heads a little higher and where they had listlessly drifted around the temple¡¯s grand entrance, they now moved with purpose.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Derzina said, once most of the people around them were abuzz with activity. ¡°We can probably take it from here, if you¡¯d like to rest.¡± She assumed he must be exhausted after all the energy he¡¯d imparted to the soldiers.

    ¡°I appreciate your concern,¡± Fornon said, ¡°but I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll rest once we¡¯re finished here.¡±

    She considered insisting that he must at least take a short reprieve given his injuries, but he spoke with such vigoro that she was convinced he could continue all night if need be.

    ¡°Very well, I suppose we need all the help we can get. What¡¯s next?¡±

    ¡°Waiting, mostly. Things have been set in motion, all that¡¯s left is for everyone to get themselves in order. Once that¡¯s done, then we await the demons¡¯ next move.¡±

    ¡°You want us to wait for them to attack again? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to strike while they¡¯re still trying to take control of the city?¡± It would only get harder, the more entrenched their position within the walls became.

    He shook his head. ¡°Too risky. If the attack went poorly, we¡¯d likely be wiped out. Or near enough for it not to matter. Besides, unless your newfound goddess has some tricks to offer us then there¡¯s not much chance of us surprising them.¡±

    ¡°I still haven¡¯t heard from her,¡± Derzina said, frowning. ¡°It¡¯s probably best to assume that we¡¯re on our own for the time being.¡±

    ¡°Then we wait.¡±

 6 - Breaking the City

    Meztraxia removed his helmet, and took a deep breath. The air was thick with choking smoke and the metallic taste of blood. Distasteful as the combination was, the smell filled him with satisfaction. The human¡¯s great city had all but fallen before his might. With the Demon King¡¯s blessing, it would be the first of many snuffed out by his champion.

    A soldier wearing a breastplate decorated in his colours stepped out from one of the side streets and said, ¡°I have returned, my lord.¡±

    Meztraxia deigned to glance at his underling before returning to his inspection of his victory. ¡°How goes it?¡±

    ¡°We have purged every ward in the north and west districts.¡±

    ¡°Did you meet much resistance?¡±

    ¡°Their militia made us work for it, but it was nothing we couldn¡¯t handle, my lord.¡±

    ¡°Casualties?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a precise count at this stage, my lord, but I believe ours number approximately eight thousand.¡±

    Meztraxia sneered. ¡°Eight thousand? Against this rabble?¡± That was close to a fifth of their forces, an absurd number given the ease with which the city had fallen. Were his subordinates so incompetent? He turned to glare at his courier. ¡°What was your name again?¡±

    ¡°Vont, my lord.¡±

    ¡°Have we met before?¡± Now that he looked at him, there was something vaguely familiar about the young red-skinned demon.

    ¡°I¡¯ve served as your aide for years, my lord.¡±

    ¡°Hm, no matter. Tell me, Vont, does this figure not strike you as excessive?¡±

    Vont lowered his head. ¡°I could not possibly make such a judgement, my lord. Though I will note that we suffered a considerable number of them at the hands of the goddess and her Paladins, when they sortied. It¡¯s only thanks to your intervention that the number wasn¡¯t higher.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯re saying our losses are my fault for not cutting down that godling sooner?¡± Meztraxia maintained his glower, though inwardly he was laughing at the poor fellow¡¯s discomfort. Still, to his credit, Vont didn¡¯t hesitate.

    ¡°I would not dream of assigning blame, my lord. I¡¯m sure you arrived with all due haste.¡±

    Meztraxia allowed himself a slight smile at his aide¡¯s carefully chosen words, it was no wonder the man had maintained his position for years. Assuming he¡¯d been telling the truth, one could never be sure of such things. He¡¯d have to confirm Vont¡¯s story once the battle for the city was over.

    ¡°And you¡¯re certain about the wards?¡± Meztraxia asked. If by some incredible stroke of misfortune, the humans reclaimed their home, he meant to render it unhabitable to them. It seemed a fair trade for the disaster they¡¯d brought to his world.

    ¡°Yes, my lord. I confirmed the destruction of each myself. Barring the possibility of wards undetectable by our mages, then I am certain none remain in the parts occupied by our forces.¡±

    ¡°Excellent. We¡¯ll be done by morning at this rate.¡± Regrettable as their losses were, they did nothing to sour the sweet taste of victory. He could always get more soldiers; the humans could not replace their cities. The more Meztraxia thought of it, the more he was unable to contain himself. Why was he wasting time surveying the city when he had yet to finish vanquishing its owners? Vont made some passing remark of assent, which made no impression on Meztraxia¡¯s musing.

    Seized with renewed purpose, the Demon Lord donned his helmet and reclaimed the halberd he¡¯d left leaning against the wall. ¡°I tire of waiting. Gather my guard, we march for the city centre.¡±

    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡±

    Vont hurried off to carry out Meztraxia¡¯s will, and the Demon Lord went back to enjoying his conquest. Though now that the true destruction of the city was so close, watching smoke rise from the humans¡¯ dwellings had lost some of its appeal and he soon grew weary of it. Drawing upon his sanguis ¡ªthe power granted to each Demon Lord¡ª he created a swarm of purple soldiers in miniature.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    Driven by his will, they latched onto the stone wall of the nearest building and pulled until it collapsed. It was a pointless exercise, given that the humans wouldn¡¯t be able to survive here anymore, but it brought him a measure of satisfaction.

    He continued his petty destruction until he was interrupted by the arrival of his guard, and he allowed the soldiers he¡¯d summoned to disappear. The short column of his personal guard, dressed in a less ornate version of Meztraxia¡¯s own purple and black plate, marched through the rubble. They stopped a few paces away at the order of their commander who strode forward to meet Meztraxia.

    ¡°Your messenger said we¡¯ll be taking the centre of the city; but I thought he must surely be mistaken,¡± Esamion said.

    ¡°Oh? And why is that?¡±

    ¡°Because, as I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware, we¡¯ve yet to finish consolidating our hold on the city.¡±

    Meztraxia nodded. ¡°I¡¯m well aware of that, what makes you think that would influence my decision to attack the centre?¡±

    ¡°I had thought you would prefer to attack with the full might of our army, rather than just your personal guard.¡±

    ¡°Have some faith,¡± Meztraxia said, chuckling at his subordinate¡¯s sour demeanour, ¡°we few are more than enough. The humans are all but broken, they can¡¯t have more than a few dozen men left in the centre.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no way to know for certain how many human soldiers are left,¡± Esamion said. ¡°Nor what other resources they might throw at us, we¡¯re fighting on their home ground after all.¡±

    ¡°You worry too much; you¡¯ll never advance to the third circle if you let something so trivial check your ambition.¡± It was a wonder to Meztraxia that Esamion had even reached the second circle, he¡¯d never met such a cowardly Demon Lord.

    ¡°I¡¯m merely indulging in exercising a little prudence. I thought one of us should try it; just for a change. And as for the subject of my advancement, we will see.¡±

    ¡°Very well, I have received your objections and I shall endeavour to taunt you with them after our victory.¡± To Meztraxia¡¯s disappointment, Esamion¡¯s placid expression remained fixed in place. He really was a terrible bore, if Meztraxia had another Demon Lord free to replace him he would¡¯ve done so in an instant. Unfortunately, that would have to wait until he demonstrated to his people that his was the only path to destroying the humans once and for all.

    ¡°Then I take you still intend to proceed with this farce? I can¡¯t say I¡¯m surprised, though somehow, I still manage to be disappointed. Will you at least allow your guard time to rest, we¡¯ve only just returned from hard fighting in the western district.¡±

    Meztraxia glanced at the column of soldiers behind Esamion. There was a considerable amount of blood on their dark plate, but their formation was still impeccable. ¡°You can rest once we¡¯re done. Unless you truly think you and yours can¡¯t manage one more scuffle.¡±

    ¡°If that is what you ask of us, then we will endeavour to meet your needs. Even if both the strain and risk are strictly unnecessary.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d expect nothing less. Form up behind me, we march now.¡±

    Orientating himself toward the city¡¯s centre, Meztraxia started walking. Esamion repeated his order, and the other fifteen members of Meztraxia¡¯s personal guard marched off. They encountered a few scattered demons, who Meztraxia paid little attention to, but there wasn¡¯t a human in sight; at least not a living one.

    It was only when they reached the ruins of a stone bridge that crossed the canal surrounding the centre, that they encountered any resistance. An arrow hissed through the air, catching Meztraxia square in the face and his head snapped back, mostly in surprise.

    He glared at the shaft protruding from his cheek before grabbing it in his gauntlet and ripping it from his flesh. The wooden shaft came free, but the metal head remained embedded somewhere in his face. Meztraxia sighed, now he¡¯d have to dig it out. But that would have to wait until later.

    ¡°Esamion, take your men and hunt down whoever that was.¡± Turning back to his personal guard, he pointed in the general direction of whoever had loosed the arrow.

    ¡°What about you?¡± Esamion asked.

    ¡°I will proceed to their temple alone.¡± He had no interest in chasing after a lone archer, that was what he had soldiers for.

    ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s wise?¡±

    ¡°Not in the slightest, nor do I care. Now get moving.¡±

    Esamion grunted in dissatisfaction, but he did as he was told. The black-armored demons hurried off into the city with their shields raised and swords drawn. Meztraxia hopped nimbly over the canal, despite his heavy armor, and made for the temple.

    Alone once more, he hummed a rousing tune as he advanced upon the human¡¯s last redoubt. There were no humans in the streets here either, which served only to confirm his belief that his foes were all but ground to dust. However, he did encounter something in the wide lane before the temple that gave him pause; a contingent of his soldiers lying dead upon the stones.

    He didn¡¯t recognize them, probably the troops of one of the minor lords under his command, and nor did he recall having ordered this attack. Therefore, he concluded, it must have been a Demon Lord trying to seize the glory of taking the city¡¯s greatest temple for themselves.

    Meztraxia shook his head, if the Demon Lord had only possessed the courage to accompany their soldiers, perhaps they would have succeeded. Now it fell to him to avenge them, along with the vast multitude of demons the humans had killed before them.

    Drawing air into his lungs, he bellowed in the direction of the temple. ¡°Foolish creatures, your reckoning has come! There is nowhere left for you to hide, so come and face your destruction!¡±

 7 - Last Stand

    Derzina was adjusting the padding beneath her borrowed mail shirt, trying to make it more comfortable, when she heard someone shout something outside. Despite the fearful volume of their call, she couldn¡¯t make out the words. In response, a voice in her head said, ¡°He¡¯s here.¡±

    Derzina jumped and it took her a moment to realise what was happening. Lady Atasimon had returned at last. ¡°Who¡¯s here, my lady?¡±

    ¡°The Demon Lord I fought outside the city.¡±

    ¡°Then the demons¡¯ army is already upon us?¡± Derzina asked, looking frantically around. Were they ready? Other than herself, most of the other soldiers were already in their positions. Clustered in small groups, they stood prepared to defend the narrow corridors and stairways of the central temple.

    ¡°No, as far as I can discern, he has come alone.¡±

    ¡°What? Why would he come alone?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but we can¡¯t afford to waste this opportunity. Order everyone to attack him at once. We must overcome him as quickly as possible.¡±

    ¡°But- ¡°

    ¡°There is no time to argue, if you wish to save your city, then you will do as I say.¡±

    Licking her lips, Derzina ran off to find Captain Fornon from his position on the second floor where he was overseeing the troops. ¡°Captain,¡± she called, interrupting his conversation with another soldier.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Fornon asked, brow furrowed in concern.

    ¡°We need to sally forth and attack the Demon Lord outside.¡±

    ¡°And abandon our position? Sounds damned foolish.¡±

    ¡°I know it must seem strange,¡± Derzina said, trying to remain calm, ¡°but this is what the goddess has commanded. She believes it to be our best chance of victory.¡±

    ¡°Be that as it may- ¡°

    ¡°Enough,¡± Atasimon said, speaking through Derzina, yet in a voice that was nothing like hers. ¡°If you refuse to give the order, then I shall do so myself.¡± Her shadowy veil flickered into existence around her and her next words echoed throughout the temple. ¡°I am Atasimon, hear me and obey. The demons¡¯ commander is approaching alone, Ortesia¡¯s killer. Now get out there and avenge your goddess!¡±

    Derzina felt control of her body shift back to her as the soldiers around them hurried out. Only Fornon remained where he was, sitting down on one of the stone benches with a sigh. ¡°I hope your lady will forgive me; I¡¯d be more of a detriment than anything if I went with them.¡±

    ¡°Then you agree that her decision was best?¡± Derzina asked.

    He shrugged, and Derzina left him to follow the others, turning her attention inward to address Atasimon. ¡°What¡¯s the plan?¡±

    ¡°Find a vantage point close to the action and wait.¡±

    Derzina hurried down the stairs to the ground floor, already lagging behind the others. Many of the soldiers had already left the temple. ¡°Wait? For what? I thought we were in a hurry.¡±

    ¡°We are, but we must pick our moment carefully.¡±

    ¡°Then should I tell the soldiers to wait?¡±

    She was about to stop one of the soldiers when Atasimon answered. ¡°No, let them go. We must wait and rely on them to create the proper opportunity for us.¡±

    Emerging onto one of the temple¡¯s balconies, Derzina sighted the Demon Lord at last. He was already engaged with the human soldiers, cutting down a man with his halberd as Derzina watched. ¡°Then we¡¯re just meant to stand here and watch as he butchers them?¡±

    ¡°We have no choice. All we can do is hope that they¡¯re able to tire him out and force him to expend some of his power, only then will we have a chance of defeating him.¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t seem to have this problem last time you fought him.¡±

    ¡°And look how that turned out, we were lucky to survive the encounter. I let anger cloud my judgement then; I cannot allow it to do so again. This is the last chance I will get to avenge my sister and save your city.¡±

    Much as she wanted to look away from the sight of her allies being cut down while she stood there doing nothing, Derzina forced herself to watch. She had to be ready for any opportunity that might present itself. That, and she as if she¡¯d be doing them a disservice if she refused to witness their sacrifices.

    She watched as a pair of militiamen thrust their spears at him, only for them to deflect off his armour as he stepped forward and dispatched them both in a single stroke. But for all his speed and strength, he was still one against many. Before he could withdraw his halberd, another soldier grabbed onto the metal haft.

    As he moved to pulled it free, a pole hammer smashed into his shoulder and he lost his grip on the weapon completely.

    ¡°Now?¡± Derzina asked, already stepping forward.

    ¡°No, not yet.¡±

    ¡°But he¡¯s disarmed.¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. His weapon is the least of our worries.¡±

    The soldiers around Meztraxia rushed in, looking to bear him to the ground, only to find themselves covered in the Demon Lord¡¯s tiny summoned warriors. Tearing a polearm with a curved blade from one of the trapped humans, Meztraxia was about to bring it down on its former owner when he was hit by a wave of light and toppled to the ground.

    Shaking off the Demon Lord¡¯s conjurations, Yormis swung the hammerhead of her polearm down at him. It smashed him against the ground, leaving a great dent in his breastplate. Rolling away, Meztraxia came up standing and seemingly uninjured.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    Yormis threw out another wave of light, only for it to vanish upon touching the Demon Lord. Though faint, and hard to make out at this distance, Dezina saw a flash of purple mist as the Paladin¡¯s magic dissipated.

    ¡°Did you see that?¡± Derzina asked inwardly.

    ¡°Indeed. Whatever that mist is, that¡¯s precisely what we need to exhaust.¡±

    ¡°Any idea how we¡¯re going to do that, my lady?¡± Other than Yormis, who was now on the backfoot against the Demon Lord, she could only see two other Paladins present. And for all the fury the soldiers had brought against Meztraxia, it was waning in the face of their mounting losses.

    ¡°The Paladins need to use all the power they have left. Hopefully it will be enough.¡±

    ¡°Alright, then you should probably call out to them so they know what to do, my lady.¡± Derzina braced herself, waiting for the goddess to take control.

    ¡°No, the Demon Lord would hear me and I¡¯d risk giving away the plan. You¡¯re going to have to get in there and tell them yourself.¡±

    Taking a deep breath, Derzina ran toward the fray. Yormis was staggering back, bleeding freely from a deep cut on her arm, while others took her place and Derzina went to meet her. The Demon Lord had regained his halberd, and was once more laying waste to the soldiers around him.

    ¡°Yormis,¡± Derzina called, speaking just loud enough to be heard over the tumult of clashing steel and battle cries.

    ¡°What?¡± Yormis asked, hand clasped over her wound while she kept her eyes fixed on the Demon Lord.

    ¡°I need you to use your power on him again, it¡¯s our only hope.¡±

    ¡°Are you blind?¡± Yormis snapped. ¡°It did nothing to him.¡±

    ¡°I know, but you have to keep trying. It will work eventually, trust me.¡±

    Yormis grunted, light already forming in her free hand. Lifting her arm in the direction of the Demon Lord, she loosed another blast of golden light, only for it fizzled against his black armour once more.

    ¡°Again,¡± Derzina commanded, not giving Yormis a chance to get discouraged, ¡°keep trying until you have nothing left to give.¡±

    Seeing the same golden light appear, Derzina moved on. She was weaving her way through the soldiers as they alternated between advancing and retreating, when a shout cut through the chaos.

    ¡°There you are!¡± Meztraxia bellowed, looking right at her as he cut down the militiaman in front of him. A wave of tiny purple warriors erupted before him, and he ran through the beleaguered soldiers as they struggled with his minions.

    ¡°Shit,¡± Derzina said aloud, drawing her sword and backing away before speaking to the goddess within. ¡°Here he comes. Do we run?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no time,¡± Atasimon said, taking over and turning to confront the Demon Lord. ¡°We triumph here or die with the rest of your city.¡±

    Meztraxia felled a man with an offhand blow from his gauntlet as he approached, and said, ¡°Let us begin where we left off.¡±

    His halberd arced through the air in a powerful overhead strike that Atasimon didn¡¯t even try to parry. Two quick steps back, and the blade sailed harmlessly past. She created a patch of clinging shadow and hurled it at the Demon Lord¡¯s head only for it to dissipate as the Paladin¡¯s light had.

    Deprived of her power, Atasimon was forced to resort to ordinary steel. Deflecting the spearhead of the demon¡¯s halberd, she stepped in and slashed at his leading hand. Her sword came down hard on his fingers, but his grip remained firm.

    ¡°Is that all you can manage?¡± Meztraxia taunted, holding his weapon at the ready ¡°You¡¯re even more pathetic than the last godling I killed.¡±

    ¡°Stay calm,¡± Derzina said, speaking within her mind.

    ¡°I know,¡± Atasimon snapped, replying in kind before responding aloud to the Demon Lord¡¯s provocation. ¡°My sister was far greater than you¡¯ll ever be. You may have defeated her by some stroke of luck, but I will take my vengeance.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome to try.¡± He punctuated his statement with a sweeping blow, and as Atasimon staggered back to avoid it, he struck with the metal haft. It caught her in the abdomen, the mail and padding doing little to blunt the impact, and she doubled over.

    ¡°Unfortunately, it appears you¡¯re not up to the task,¡± he said, bringing the axe head down on her.

    Stunned, with her mortal forming failing her, Atasimon didn¡¯t even see it coming until it was too late. An instant of regret, so intense that even Derzina felt it, passed through her before the end came.

    The halberd¡¯s black blade descended, missing her by an inch. Looking up, Atasimon saw that Meztraxia was now looking back over his shoulder. Not wasting time, Atasimon regained her posture and scrambled back out of reach. Only then did she spare the attention to see what had caused the Demon Lord to miss.

    Amongst the remaining soldiers, most of them injured or bound, stood Yormis and her two fellow Paladins. Each held a number of small glowing objects, the golden light surrounding them too bright to make out further detail.

    They hurled them at the Demon Lord, their missiles streaking through the air with incredible force like little comets and slamming into his armour. Though the light vanished on impact, turning them back into rocks, the force behind them was enough to stagger the Demon Lord.

    ¡°Must I be constantly interrupted?¡± he exclaimed, raising his hand in their direction. ¡°Enough of this.¡±

    A veritable horde of tiny warriors sprung up around the Paladins, climbing up their legs and seeking out gaps in their armour. Seeing that Meztraxia was still focused on these last champions of her sister, Atasimon dashed in.

    With one hand gripping her sword blade for better control, she drove the tip into the back of the Demon Lord¡¯s knee. The blade penetrated the mail, but just as before there was no sign of blood as she withdrew it.

    Before Meztraxia could bring his halberd around to strike at her, Atasimon summoned long strands of shadow that shot out and wrapped around a stone arch behind her. Setting her feet, she pulled, adding her strength to that of her animated shadows. Together, they tore the section of stone free and brought it toppling down on top of Meztraxia. With a terrific crash, the broken arch slammed into the ground and pinned him beneath it.

    Atasimon ran toward the fallen Demon Lord, sword at the ready. Only part of his legs remained unburied, still covered in his black armour. There were dents in the metal where the impact had struck, and a number of jagged cracks. She jammed the tip of her blade into one of the larger cracks, piercing the flesh beneath.

    There was no reaction, the Demon Lord¡¯s body was completely still.

    ¡°Is he dead?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°It¡¯s too soon to say,¡± Atasimon said, shifting the rubble with her foot as she sought a more vulnerable location to strike.

    A faint purple mist rose from the Demon Lord, growing denser before her eyes. Atasimon directed a thin tendril of shadow toward it, which touched the mist and vanished. Slashing it with her blade to little effect, she watched as the mist formed into a humanoid shape.

    ¡°What is that thing?¡± Derzina asked.

    Atasimon drew back from it, though it remained stationary. ¡°I have no idea, but it¡¯s coming from the Demon Lord so he must still be alive.¡±

    She was in the process of pulling more of the city Meztraxia invaded down upon him, when the purple figure surged toward her. Reflexively raising her arm to protect her face as she jumped back, the mist only brushed against Atasimon. Derzina¡¯s skin tingled and her whole arm went numb, while Atasimon let out a high-pitched scream of pure agony.

    Still screaming as her now useless limb dangled at her side, Atasimon brought another piece of stonework toppling down upon where the Demon Lord lay, yet it did nothing to disrupt the mist before her and she only narrowly avoided its grasp.

    Atasimon, breathing heavily, manifested her shadowy veil and used it to scale the building behind her. ¡°There is nothing left I can do.¡±

    Derzina couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing, was the goddess thinking of giving up? ¡°There has to be something, you have to keep trying.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯ve done what I can; my power is spent. Even if I were at full strength, I fear I wouldn¡¯t be able to overcome whatever that thing is.¡± The purple mist floated toward her, and Atasimon fled further across the city¡¯s rooftops.

    ¡°Then you¡¯re just going to run away? What about the others?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing more I can do for them, they¡¯re on their own.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re leaving them to die?¡± Derzina shouted within her own mind. ¡°How can you be okay with that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not, but I have no choice.¡± Continuing her flight, she paused for one last look back at the temple¡¯s courtyard. The mist had stopped its pursuit, descending upon the remaining human soldiers instead. Helpless to resist the immaterial creature, they fell at its touch. ¡°The city is lost.¡±

 8 - Into the Blight

    Using her veil for protection and mobility, Atasimon ran with reckless speed through the city. Derzina pleaded with her to go back, demanded that they couldn¡¯t leave the others behind, but the goddess ignored her or offered only curt refusal. Reaching the outer wall, Atasimon paused for the first time in her flight.

    Her shadowy legs gripped the stone, and she was soon over it. Once they were outside the city, Derzina stopped talking and concentrated all her willpower into taking control back but she was no match for the goddess. Unaffected, Atasimon didn¡¯t stop once they were over the walls. She kept running until the suns were sinking behind the horizon and the city was a distant speck. Only then did she return control.

    Tears rolled down Derzina¡¯s cheeks as she was finally allowed to express the depths of her sorrow. They¡¯d left it all behind, abandoned her people in their time of need. No, she wouldn¡¯t allow it. She had to fight with them.

    Starting back toward the city, she took only a single step before her body froze up.

    ¡°Stop,¡± Atasimon commanded, speaking from within. ¡°There¡¯s nothing left for you there, and I won¡¯t let you throw our lives away for nothing.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t know that, there must be something we can do. There must still be people alive in there, we can at least save some of them.¡±

    ¡°And do what with them?¡± Atasimon demanded coldly. ¡°Bring them out here to die? Look around you, this is no place for humans. If it weren¡¯t for my presence, you wouldn¡¯t survive a day out here.¡±

    Derzina stopped, seeing her surroundings for the first time. The bleak wasteland of blackened earth, that she¡¯d only ever caught glimpses of from the highest points of the city, stretched as far as the eye could see around them. They were stranded in this accursed place while her friends and family were left to die. And it was all because of this cowardly goddess.

    ¡°This is all your fault,¡± Derzina said, ¡°we never should have summoned you.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous. Your city would have fallen with or without my intervention, you should count yourself lucky that I was able to save your life.¡±

    ¡°Lucky?¡± Derzina spat. ¡°Am I supposed to be glad that you¡¯ve made me a coward?¡±

    ¡°Better a coward than a corpse.¡±

    Derzina sat down in the dirt, staring at nothing in particular. ¡°What¡¯s the difference? At least I could have died honourably. Instead I¡¯m out here, with you. And for what? To waste away and die anyway?¡±

    ¡°We will not waste away, not while I still have power. We still have important work to do; get up.¡±

    ¡°What important work?¡± Derzina asked, scornfully. She¡¯d lost her entire life, there was nothing left to do.

    ¡°That Demon Lord commanded a strange power; unlike anything I¡¯ve ever seen before. I must find the source of that mist that was able to negate even my divine power.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the point? He¡¯s already taken the city, it¡¯s too late to stop him.¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t save your city, but we can still prevent this happening to humanity¡¯s other strongholds. Even if all we can do is warn them, we may still be enough to save them.¡±

    Tears welling up in her eyes again as she thought of all she¡¯d lost, Derzina hugged her knees to her chest. ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that. Don¡¯t you have a duty to protect the rest of humanity?¡±

    ¡°My duty was to my city, and to Lady Ortesia. But they¡¯re both gone now.¡±

    ¡°I understand that, but we have to keep moving. Or what? Do you intend to wait here until the demons catch up with us?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°Well you should.¡±

    ¡°With all due respect, fuck off.¡±

    ¡°How dare you speak that way to a goddess.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not a goddess to me, you¡¯re just a coward. Your sister, my goddess, would never have abandoned her people.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s why she¡¯s dead,¡± Atasimon shot back. ¡°Sometimes you have to give up to fight another day. Even if you are a goddess.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t fucking lecture me, I¡¯m not some child in need of your guidance.¡±

    ¡°Then stop acting like one and get up.¡±

    ¡°What do you care, anyway? If you want to move so badly, then do it. It¡¯s not like I can stop you.¡±

    ¡°Though I would prefer not to depend on you, I¡¯ve exhausted almost all my power. Until I¡¯ve had time to rest, you¡¯re the only way we¡¯re going anywhere.¡±Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Closing her eyes, Derzina cried in silence as she thought of all that she was leaving behind. Her mother and father, her home, everyone and everything she¡¯d ever known. It was nearly too much for her to bear, but the thought that she might be able to stop this from happening to other people kept her from breaking.

    Much as she hated to admit it, Atasimon was right; they might be able to make a difference. What else was the point of Derzina¡¯s survival? She had to make it count for something. If not for herself, then for all those she¡¯d left behind. Wiping the tears from her eyes, she got to her feet.

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go. Just tell me one thing first; are you absolutely certain you couldn¡¯t have finished that Demon Lord? He seemed all but beaten.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t understand; when that thing touched me, I could feel my very essence unravelling. I¡¯m absolutely certain I couldn¡¯t have destroyed whatever he had become, I can¡¯t fight something like that.¡±

    ¡°Then what are we supposed to do? If they can¡¯t fight it, there¡¯s not much point in warning the other cities. Even if they know he¡¯s coming, there¡¯s nowhere for them to run.¡±

    ¡°I know, but I might be able to devise a way of defeating him with one of the other gods. If they know what he¡¯s capable of, a god who can access the full extent of their power might be able to defeat him. Or, failing that, we may be able to discover the source of his power.¡±

    ¡°And all I need to do is walk?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Where am I supposed to go?¡± Other than her distant city, there wasn¡¯t a single landmark in sight.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter which way we go, for now you need to put as much distance between us and that Demon Lord as you can.¡±

    Putting the city at her back, Derzina marched toward the horizon. She set a rapid pace, the exertion helping her keep her mind off what happened. If only a little.

    ¡°I know you¡¯re hurting,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°Your feelings are strong enough that I can sense them. I know how much it hurts to lose what¡¯s most important to you, but it gets easier as time passes.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s really not much consolation.¡±

    ¡°I know, it¡¯s just the best I can offer. If your experience is anything like mine, you¡¯ll always miss them. It only gets easier as you start to forget them.¡±

    ¡°Do gods forget things?¡±

    ¡°Only if we want to.¡±

    ¡°Then you chose to forget whoever you lost?¡± Derzina wondered if what she¡¯d do, if she could choose to forget. To erase her home and everything else she¡¯d lost from her memory. No matter how she thought about how much pain it brought her, she still wanted to hold onto her memories. They were all she had left now; without them she¡¯d be nothing.

    ¡°We were in battle against the Demon King. I¡­couldn¡¯t let myself be distracted,¡± Atasimon said, sounding ashamed.

    ¡°Then you regret it?¡±

    ¡°I did for a long time. But after I became one with my sister, I had ample time to think. Eventually I made peace with it. It was the best decision at the time, and there was nothing I could do to change it; there was no point regretting it.¡±

    Derzina thought it sounded like they¡¯d been through a similar situation, though Derzina¡¯s regret was still fresh in her mind. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you just forget that as well?¡±

    ¡°I could, and it would probably make my life easier. But it would mean losing one of the last memories I have of my children and my husband.¡±

    Feeling a portion of the goddess¡¯ sorrow, Derzina stopped in her tracks. One of the last things she remembered about them was choosing to forget them? ¡°That¡¯s terrible, I¡¯m sorry for your loss.¡±

    ¡°As am I, for yours. And I must apologise for what I said, I spoke harshly to you when you were grieving as any decent person would.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± It hadn¡¯t made that much of an impression on her, and the goddess had been partially right; she couldn¡¯t afford to wallow in her grief. ¡°I should never have spoken to a goddess the way I did.¡±

    ¡°Think nothing of it, you were well within your rights to do so after the way I acted. We¡¯re in this together.¡±

    Reassured, Derzina started walking again.

    ¡°If it¡¯s not too painful for you,¡± Atasimon said, after a while, ¡°would you mind telling me about your family?¡±

    ¡°Um, I don¡¯t mind talking about it but my family is pretty ordinary; I doubt they¡¯d be of much interest to a goddess.¡±

    ¡°Even still, I¡¯d like to hear about them.¡±

    ¡°What do you want to hear?¡±

    ¡°You can start with their names.¡±

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s Jorsmina and Goeth, my mother and father. Then there¡¯s my sister, Toria.¡±

    ¡°Is she older or younger?¡±

    ¡°Older.¡±

    ¡°I see, and is she a Paladin as well?¡±

    ¡°No, my sister ran a greengrocer with her husband. We were never much alike growing up. I always wanted to protect my city as a Paladin and, well, I guess she was more normal than that.¡±

    ¡°Did you two get along?¡±

    ¡°Sometimes. We had our ups and downs. I haven¡¯t spoken to her in a while, I wanted to before the ritual but there wasn¡¯t time.¡± Derzina sighed, tears welling up in her eyes. ¡°Now I¡¯ll never see her again.¡±

    ¡°What about your parents?¡±

    ¡°I saw them the night before. They both acted like they were proud of me, and I¡¯m sure they were, but underneath that they were both heartbroken.¡±

    ¡°It can¡¯t have been easy, sending your child off to die like that. They did make the right choice at least.¡±

    ¡°Even though you¡¯re right, I don¡¯t really want to hear that right now. Not after how things turned out.¡±

    ¡°I would have kept up the fight, even at the cost of my own life, if I¡¯d thought we had the slightest chance of victory. It¡¯s important to me that you understand that.¡±

    ¡°I understand it, but¡­¡±

    ¡°But what? Don¡¯t you believe me?¡±

    Derzina shrugged, shuffling toward the horizon. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to believe anymore; we left everything I thought I knew behind.¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll have to learn anew together, I don¡¯t know much about this world either. It¡¯s nothing like the place we fought to protect.¡± A bitter laugh sounded within Derzina¡¯s mind. ¡°It seems I wasn¡¯t too successful back then either, I¡¯m really not much of a god; I can¡¯t imagine what my followers were thinking. Not that I have any left.¡±

    Derzina felt a little bad for the goddess, yet she had no comfort to offer. There was no comfort to be found for either of them in this bleak place. Whatever they ended up doing, Derzina decided she¡¯d rather be anywhere else and picked up the pace.

    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°Much as we need to hurry, there¡¯s no point if you overexert yourself and collapse.¡±

    ¡°I can keep going for a while yet. Though training didn¡¯t count for anything when it came to defending the city, I can at least manage a hike.¡± Despite her exertions in the battle, or those of Atasimon using her body, she was full of energy.

    ¡°Good. Just don¡¯t be afraid to rest if you need to, we should still have plenty of distance between us and the demons.¡±

    ¡°Do you think they¡¯ll pursue us? That Demon Lord seemed quite intent on you.¡±

    ¡°Sooner or later, I imagine. I couldn¡¯t fathom anything of his intentions beyond the destruction of the city; he struck me as more than a little mad, even for a demon. He might strike out for another city immediately or stop to enjoy his conquest. It¡¯s best that we assume he¡¯ll be right on our heels, it¡¯s not as if we have any reason to wait around.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Getting further away from her former home than she¡¯d ever been with every step, Derzina jogged through the broken wilderness.

 9 - Seeking Knowledge

    ¡°Wait,¡± Atasimon said, as Derzina climbed over what felt like the hundredth hill of black dirt. ¡°I sense something.¡±

    Derzina looked around, the world looked as empty as it had since they¡¯d set out. ¡°I don¡¯t see anything.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s beneath the ground, not far from here. It¡¯s probably easier if I just show you. I assume you don¡¯t mind if I take over for a little while?¡±

    ¡°Go ahead.¡± It wasn¡¯t like the goddess had worried much about her consent before, why start now?

    Atasimon turned, closing her eyes, and slowly advanced a few dozen paces. ¡°Here,¡± she said, opening her eyes to behold a narrow crack that extended deep into the earth. A faint blue light flickered, far beneath them.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, there¡¯s a strange magic emanating from something down there.¡±

    ¡°Like the Demon Lord¡¯s?¡± Derzina asked, suddenly on guard.

    ¡°No, this is far more familiar. It¡¯s something like a mixture of magic from our old world and the demon¡¯s. There¡¯s another element mingled with the other two that I can¡¯t identify, though nothing like what the Demon Lord possessed. I couldn¡¯t sense his magic at all beyond his power as a Demon Lord.¡±

    ¡°Is it dangerous?¡±

    ¡°That remains to be seen. Though judging from the amount of energy; it shouldn¡¯t be much of a threat, even if it proves to be hostile.¡±

    Without waiting for Derzina¡¯s opinion, Atasimon squeezed into the crack and began her descent. The sharp rock cut into her hands, and Atasimon brought forth her veil. Clinging to the sheer surface, the shadows trivialized what would otherwise be a difficult climb.

    As they went deeper, leaving the light of the surface behind, the sound of humming rose from deep below. It was a halting, out of tune melody, which seemed to shift at the whim of whoever was down there rather than resembling an actual song.

    The sound carried a long way through the crack, and it wasn¡¯t long before Derzina wanted to wring the neck of whatever was humming. Was it really so hard to hold a tune? Or to keep quiet if you couldn¡¯t? A small, petty part of her hoped that Atasimon would smite the creature living so far beneath the ground.

    As the light at the bottom drew closer, Derzina wondered what manner of being would live down here. It couldn¡¯t be a human; they¡¯d never survive out here without divine protection. Which left what, a demon? That didn¡¯t seem right either. Why would a demon be wallowing at the bottom of some hole?

    Atasimon touched down, her veil fading to nothing, and bent down to examine the light that had led them here. The ball of blue light hovered above the ground in a little recess in the stone, surrounded by intricate designs so minute that Derzina couldn¡¯t make out any detail.

    ¡°What¡¯re these supposed to be?¡± she asked.

    ¡°They resemble the runes used by wizards.¡±

    ¡°Wizards? Aren¡¯t they all dead?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d know more than I do, but even if they are; their knowledge may have survived the Demon King¡¯s curse.¡±

    Had Derzina been in control of her body, she would have shivered. The wizards¡¯ destruction was the only positive part of the Demon King¡¯s curse. ¡°I hope not, someone might finish what they started and end the world.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t worry about that; I doubt they still have the power to achieve anything like that. Assuming any of them are left.¡±

    Seeing a passage ahead, lit by more of the same blue lights, Atasimon left the entrance behind.

    ¡°Are you sure we should be in here?¡±

    ¡°No, though it seems worth exploring. It¡¯s not as if we have much else to do, and we may be able to find information related to our quest. This seems as good a place to search for it as any.¡±

    Derzina found it hard to believe they¡¯d find anything of value in a hole, though she supposed the goddess must know far more of magic than she. Hopefully that knowledge would be enough to combat the Demon Lord who destroyed her city. As things stood, he seemed untouchable.

    The humming grew louder as Atasimon walked down the narrow tunnel, and Derzina felt sure they must be nearing the source. Which meant she was that much closer to making it stop, at least if she had any say in the matter.

    The corridors of smooth, worked stone continued for a short distance until they reached a circular room crammed to the roof with books. A hunched man sat in the only available space amidst the stacked volumes, dressed in bright red livery adorned with the same complex symbols carved around the lights.

    He was reading by the illumination of one such light, which hovered in place by his shoulder. Seemingly oblivious to the goddess¡¯ presence, they continued to assault Derzina¡¯s ears with their discordant attempts at music.

    ¡°Hello?¡± Atasimon called, remaining at the entrance.

    ¡°Master?¡± the wrinkled man replied almost immediately, climbing to his feet as the humming ceased at last. ¡°No, no, you are not the master. Are you guests? Where are my manners? I¡¯ll prepare you something to eat immediately.¡± He remained where he was, looking around the room in confusion.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know this master you speak of; we¡¯re certainly not his guests.¡±

    ¡°Not guests? How can they not be guests? Why else would anyone be here? How could they have discovered the master¡¯s hideaway without his invitation? Could they have stumbled upon it by chance?¡±If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    Looking up at the ceiling, his questions didn¡¯t seem addressed to anyone in particular, and Atasimon took it upon herself to reply. ¡°It wasn¡¯t chance exactly; I could sense the magic down here.¡±

    His head snapped down and he locked eyes with her. ¡°Sensed it? Are you a wizard?¡±

    ¡°No, nothing like that. I¡¯ve just gained a little magical ability over the years.¡±

    His whole body drooped, and he looked down. ¡°If you¡¯re not guests or wizards, then please leave. This is no place for you.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to impose, but we¡¯re seeking information.¡± She glanced at the books around him. ¡°Would you mind if I asked you a few questions? It seems as if you have an ample supply of knowledge at your disposal.¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°It belongs to the master. Not for you, not for you. Only for the master.¡± His voice grew louder as he spoke, until it echoed through the tunnels. ¡°It all belongs to him, and him alone!¡±

    ¡°Okay, I understand,¡± Atasimon said, raising her hands as the man inhaled in preparation of another tirade.

    He deflated, relaxing his posture. ¡°Then you will leave.¡±

    ¡°Can I at least explain our circumstances before we go?¡±

    ¡°If it will hasten your departure, then by all means. It will make no difference, so make it quick.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m trying to learn more about a Demon Lord I encountered recently, who possesses the ability to negate any magic he touches. He¡¯s already destroyed one city, and if he¡¯s not stopped, he may be the death of many more humans.¡±

    The bald man nodded sagely at the ceiling. ¡°I have heard your circumstances, goodbye.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Atasimon demanded. ¡°Do you care nothing for the plight of your fellow man?¡±

    ¡°Fellow man?¡± He looked at her again, tiling his head sharply to the side in confusion. ¡°Venestamino has not counted himself among their number since times immemorial. What do I care about the fate of humanity? They have served their purpose, why not allow them to die off? If anything, their destruction would only make way for more useful creatures.¡±

    Derzina couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing, the man before them might not be a demon, but he was certainly acting like one.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to accept that, are you?¡± she asked, speaking within her own head.

    Atasimon replied in kind, irritation plain in her tone. ¡°Of course not.¡±

    ¡°If you refuse to help us willingly,¡± Atasimon said aloud, ¡°despite knowing of our plight, then I shall have to insist.¡±

    Shadows shot forth, wrapping around Venestamino¡¯s body until he was held fast. He tilted his head haughtily back. ¡°Do you now rely on petty threats? How far you have fallen. Tell me, do your pets still call you a god?¡±

    ¡°Do not test me; provide me with the knowledge that I seek or I shall end you and take what I require from your little library.¡±

    ¡°I am happy to share what I know with those who deserve it, but you and your little vessel do not number among the worthy. Whatever paltry attempts at intimidation you make will do nothing to alter that, I do not fear you or your kind. Kill me if you must, I tire of conversing with a being of such exceptional ignorance.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Atasimon said, her shadows forming a cloak around her. ¡°Despite your vaunted knowledge, it seems you still have much to learn.¡±

    A dark tendril, pointed like a spear, flew toward Venestamino¡¯s head. True to his word, he didn¡¯t so much as flinch. Not until it arced past him and pierced straight through a tome, barbs extending to shred the paper within. Venestamino cried out, struggling against his bonds.

    ¡°You fool!¡± he shouted. ¡°How dare you? Have you any concept of the worth of what you¡¯ve destroyed? Far greater than your lives, especially once my master hears of this.¡±

    ¡°Be that as it may, he¡¯s not here now. And if you don¡¯t want to watch me destroy every one of your precious books, then you will aid us.¡±

    When Venestamino hesitated, her veil seized another book and dangled it before him. ¡°Well?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Fine,¡± he said, glaring. ¡°I¡¯ll help you, just don¡¯t destroy anything else.¡±

    She released him, and he muttered, ¡°None of you barbarous creatures should ever have been allowed to survive.¡±

    ¡°Would you rather the demons then? I doubt they¡¯ll treat you with any more kindness.¡±

    ¡°I care not for kindness,¡± Venestamino said, sneering, ¡°at least they have some respect for knowledge.¡±

    ¡°And I care not for your opinions; what do you know of the power I spoke of? One that can negate magic?¡±

    The brightly dressed man sat back down on the only clear patch of ground. ¡°That depends, do you mean all magic or just your tawdry brand of it?¡±

    ¡°I have only seen it interact with magic born from the divine, and that of the demons. It negated the former and seemed to have no effect on the latter.¡±

    ¡°I know of nothing of that precise nature, but if it only effects your magic then it stands to reason that they spring from the same source.¡±

    ¡°Are you implying that he possesses the power of a god in addition to that of a Demon Lord? That¡¯s ridiculous, there¡¯s no way one being could sustain such a thing. Besides, I would have noticed.¡±

    Venestamino blinked at her, long and slow. ¡°It¡¯s possible that he may not have what you would recognise as a god¡¯s divine power, perhaps it is simply derived from the same source.¡±

    ¡°Is there the slightest bit of precedent to what you¡¯re suggesting?¡± Atasimon asked, shaking her head. ¡°Or is this simply a wild guess?¡±

    ¡°I can think of one, very pertinent bit of precedent.¡± He paused, drawing out the moment as a twisted smile bloomed across his features. ¡°One of which I can see you know nothing, for all your supposed wisdom.¡±

    ¡°Your doubts regarding my wisdom are of no concern, so long as you trust in my wrath. Now stop wasting time and tell me of this mysterious history you alluded to.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it is not so mysterious for those who truly seek knowledge. There is one who is like you, yet unlike you, who is known to my master and others who possess true power; Darmis the Immaculate, the only being in this world worthy of being called a god.¡±

    ¡°Have you ever heard of this god?¡± Atasimon asked, speaking within her own thoughts.

    ¡°Never,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°Nor have I.¡±

    Refocusing on Venestamino, Atasimon asked, ¡°And from does this Darmis, who styles himself immaculate, draw his strength?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps you should ask him yourself,¡± Venestamino said, laughing. ¡°Assuming he would deign to speak with but a shadow of a god.¡±

    ¡°Shadow I may be, but shadows are capable of concealing much that you would be wise to leave unknown. If all you have to offer as to his origins is this stale repartee, then I suggest you say your farewells to the hoarded volumes you surround yourself with.¡±

    The threat sufficed to wipe the smile from Venestamino¡¯s face, his dour countenance reasserting itself. ¡°Calm yourself. I do have one tidbit to offer you. Small as it may be, I believe you shall find it of great use in your search. For you see, I know, through the grace of my master, where Darmis first came to be. He was born beneath the first full moon of the new world, within the Great Rift where the blood of gods mixed with that of their foe; the Demon King.¡±

    ¡°And where is this rift?¡±

    The bald man chuckled. ¡°Do you not know it? I had thought all your kind would know the location of their last, and greatest battle; where their strength was broken. Perhaps you were too busy cowering while your kin fought and died to note the location.¡±

    ¡°You presume much. It was by the Demon King¡¯s own hand that I fell and was left as you see me now; with only a fraction of my former strength. The scenery of the accursed land in which we fought is still etched in my mind but the world has changed much since that terrible day, and what little knowledge I had of the demon¡¯s world is of little use now.¡±

    ¡°Then allow me to direct you; travel northward until you reach a great chasm. It is there that you will find what answers are to be had regarding your Demon Lord¡¯s origins. If you have nothing further to trouble me with, then begone. I have much reading to do.¡±

    ¡°I shall depart, though I swear if you¡¯ve deceived me-¡°

    Venestamino made a dismissive gesture. ¡°Yes, yes you¡¯ll wreak terrible vengeance upon me. I have given you only the truth as I know it, I would never stoop so low as to offer falsehoods to fellow seekers of knowledge. However rude and ill-formed they may be.¡±

 10 - The Grove

    ¡°Would you really have killed him?¡± Derzina asked, once they returned to the surface outside Venestamino¡¯s underground home and Atasimon returned control of her body. ¡°Not that I¡¯d blame you if you did, he probably deserved it.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps he did,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°Yet if we were to slay all those who may deserve it, I fear we¡¯d have no time for our search. In answer to your question; I would not have killed him unless he gave me a good reason. I regret that I was forced to resort to threats at all, but I could see no other option.¡±

    ¡°I did not mean to offer reproach, my lady, it simply caught me off-guard.¡±

    ¡°Think nothing of it, you were right to question. Though if I¡¯m not mistaken, it has been a while since you last addressed me so.¡±

    ¡°It has indeed, my lady. I have treated you with terrible rudeness. All I can say in my defence is that I have not been myself. These are¡­ dark times, far darker than any I¡¯ve known.¡± Orientating herself by suns¡¯ position, Derzina made for the north.

    ¡°Have you not? In my experience it is in such times that one¡¯s true character comes to light, for better or worse. Think nothing of it, nothing in your manner was not unwarranted. Besides, I see little sense in you standing on ceremony when we are of one body. There is little opportunity for either of us to maintain distance or secrets now, much as we might wish it were otherwise.¡±

    The goddess¡¯ voice grew wistful, and it occurred to Derzina that perhaps Atasimon wasn¡¯t too happy about their circumstances either. Distracted by her own concerns, she hadn¡¯t thought much of what her companion must have been through.

    She¡¯d arrived in this world to find her sister dead, and that she was forced to share a body with a lowly mortal. Anyone would have ample reason to be dissatisfied, the goddess voicing little of her displeasure spoke a great deal of her benevolence.

    ¡°How would you prefer that I address you then?¡±

    ¡°I believe calling me by my name will suffice, if you find that tolerable.¡±

    ¡°A strange though, I suppose I shall have to get used to it. After all, there is little that can be kept sacred between us, as you said.¡± Looking to the horizon, she could see no sign of the chasm Venestamino spoke of. ¡°And I fear we have a long trip ahead of us.¡±

    ¡°Do you know anything of the place we seek?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°This Great Rift?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard it spoken of in stories, though none I would put much faith in.¡±

    ¡°Dubious as your sources may be, I would still like to hear what you know. There is likely some small measure of truth to it at the very least, which may prove invaluable to us.¡±

    Derzina found that unlikely, she doubted the accounts she¡¯d heard originated from anyone who¡¯d ever seen the Great Rift. ¡°They say the world was split open all the way to its centre, and out poured horrific creatures; the things of nightmare, far more terrible than demons. Now they make their homes within the Great Rift, laying waste to anyone who would approach.¡±

    ¡°And why should anyone,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°barring ourselves, wish to approach? Is the rift not simply more of this dark empty land? I find it hard to imagine it could have much to offer.¡±

    Looking at the lifeless waste surrounding them, it seemed to go on forever. ¡°I share much the same sentiment. Supposedly as we draw closer to the Great Rift the landscape will shift.¡± She stopped to close her eyes, that she might better imagine this fanciful place the legends spoke of. ¡°Fields of jagged living crystal sprout from the ground, tended by the same foul creatures that dwell within the Great Rift. The demons harvest both to fuel their magic. We shall have to take care to avoid whatever enemies might be lurking amidst the crystals, if they even exist.¡±

    Atasimon let out a low and weary laugh. ¡°I had thought this new world I find myself in bad enough already, yet it appears we must venture into lands that are worse still. At least we should have little to fear from whatever dwells there, I should be able to shield us from their gaze. So long as there aren¡¯t more like Meztraxia on the path before us. If there are other such beings out there, then we were doomed before we ever set out.¡±

    ¡°This must indeed seem like some twisted hell to one born upon Oelindrey. Truth be told, a peaceful world such as that seems harder to credit than these children¡¯s tales I have recounted at your lady¡¯s pleasure. For what little it is worth, a part of me does look forward to seeing what lies in these distant lands.¡±

    ¡°Likely little that will make you glad to have seen it,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°though I hope for both our sakes that I am mistaken, and there is some light to be found in the far ends of the world. We could certainly both do with some at this stage.¡±Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    ¡°Without a doubt.¡± Derzina said, shaking her head ruefully. ¡°Life would be far easier if fate ran by such logic.¡±

    ¡°Do not be so quick to dismiss hope, however ill-founded or foolhardy it may be. For it is hope that gives us the strength to continue, and we shall need great strength of will indeed if we are to walk this dark path.¡±

    Much as the goddess¡¯ words resonated, Derzina could find no hope within herself. Her world was gone, destroyed by a Demon Lord¡¯s evil will, why should the wider world not follow? It seemed only fitting for it to fall to ruin in turn.

    These fell thoughts filled her mind almost to overflowing, but she chose not to bother Atasimon with them. If the goddess still had hope, then Derzina had no wish to test it. It was sure to be sorely tested by what was to come without the tainting it with Derzina¡¯s doubts. The goddess¡¯ hopes would have to be enough to sustain the both of them.

    For all Derzina¡¯s worries, her body felt as light and full of energy as ever; more than up to the journey. Ever since she was joined with the goddess, she had felt neither thirst nor hunger, and sleep had turned from need to luxury. It was not much in the grand scheme of things, but it brought Derzina some small comfort. And comfort was a rare thing in these blighted lands their enemy called home.

    It was no wonder the demons held such evil in their hearts, born as they were into this living hell. Though whatever their circumstances, it would win them no sympathy from Derzina. Given the option, she would see them suffer a far more terrible fate than simply living in this twisted world.

    Dreams of vengeance for all that she had lost, so occupied Derzina¡¯s waking mind that she took little notice of the passage of time until the last sun sunk beneath the horizon.

    ¡°Should we continue on?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°I believe we are far enough from the demon¡¯s army for a little rest.¡± Atasimon said, ¡°We have covered a great deal of ground and you must be exhausted by now.¡±

    ¡°I can keep going if need be. I imagine it would be best if we made for the Great Rift with all possible haste, and I have no desire to sleep out here. This barren expanse is too foul and exposed to be comfortable. What if a demon should happen upon us in our sleep?¡±

    ¡°Then perhaps we should keep going for a while longer. Hopefully we can find a more suitable spot, you must rest eventually.¡±

    Derzina didn¡¯t bother to look around, she was all too aware that there was no such place in sight. ¡°It¡¯s a pity Venestamino was so hostile to our cause. His little hideaway didn¡¯t seem too comfortable, but it would still be far better than anything else we¡¯ve seen. What better can we hope to find out here?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps I should have killed him after all,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°that we might have taken his home for ourselves.¡±

    ¡°Much as I disliked him, it seems a poor reason to take his life. Especially as we¡¯d spend at most a few hours there before setting off again.¡±

    ¡°My apologies, that was my attempt at a joke. Please ignore my rambling.¡±

    A joke? That the goddess would be joking, especially at a time like this, surprised Derzina more than Atasimon wishing she¡¯d murdered Venestamino so they had somewhere to stay. ¡°Oh, I see.¡±

    Derzina hadn¡¯t the faintest idea of how to console a god after a failed attempt at humour or if she should even do so. Had she done it in the hopes of raising Derzina¡¯s spirits? If so, it only made the situation all the stranger. Atasimon spoke no more on the subject, while Derzina was quite content to let it drop and keep walking.

    Despite the potential danger all around them, travelling through the demons¡¯ lands had become terribly monotonous. Derzina had little desire to make conversation, yet she found herself searching for some distraction to break up the tedium. A star, streaking across the sky, caught her eye.

    It descended lower and lower until she realized it was not a star at all, but a speck of light much closer than she supposed. Whatever it was, the pale-yellow light had departed the sky to hover over a hill not far from Derzina¡¯s chosen route. It flitted about, bent to some inscrutable purpose, before dipping down out of sight.

    Faintly disappointed by the light¡¯s disappearance, Derzina set off after it. Given the vagueness of their destination, a slight detour would make little difference and it may behove them to discover the light¡¯s source.

    Given that it stemmed from the demon¡¯s lands, she doubted it would prove friendly. Still, if it were hostile, it was better to discern its nature and intent than leave an unknown threat at their back.

    Reaching the top of the hill, Derzina beheld what lay beyond. So unexpected was the sight, that she doubted her eyes¡¯ veracity. A grove of tall trees with leaves of brilliant green, shining with moisture, sprouted from the otherwise lifeless soil.

    ¡°Do you see this?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°I do,¡± Atasimon said, sounding every bit as amazed as her host. ¡°I would never have thought such wonders remained upon this world.¡±

    ¡°Nor would I. I¡¯ve never heard of anything growing out here.¡±

    ¡°What of those crystalline formations you mentioned? Didn¡¯t you say they were alive?¡±

    ¡°Well, yes. But simple trees are a far cry from magical crystals.¡±

    The apparent mundane nature of the trees made it all the more puzzling. While she¡¯d never seen this particular variety within the city¡¯s gardens, they would not have looked out of place among those that once sheltered within the walls under Ortesia¡¯s protection.

    ¡°I have no idea how they can survive out here,¡± Derzina said, ¡°where nothing grows, save that which is under the sway of the demons¡¯ corruption. Are you certain that this is not some kind of illusion?¡±

    Some manner of deception seemed far more believable than these impossible trees being here in truth.

    ¡°Quite, unless illusory magic has advanced far beyond my understanding after my century-long absence.¡±

    ¡°Is that likely?¡±

    ¡°I certainly hope not, though I cannot deny that there is some small possibility I am mistaken.¡±

    Peering at the densely packed trees from a distance, Derzina searched for the little wayward light but could not detect the slightest hint of its radiance. There were simply too many places for something so small to hide.

    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s safe to approach?¡± Derzina asked. While nothing seemed overtly dangerous about it, the inexplicable nature of the grove made her wary.

    ¡°Safe enough, there appears to be little here other than trees. I should be more than capable of protecting you from a few misplaced plants.¡±

    Putting her faith in the goddess of shadow dwelling within her, Derzina approached the grove.

 11 - Soaristers Servant

    Moss carpeted the ground beneath the boughs and in a small, perfect circle beyond them. The vegetation was so dense that not a single speck of the black dirt beneath was visible. Taking a tentative step forward, Derzina found the moss both soft and yet resilient beneath her foot.

    She walked as carefully as she could manage, so as not to disturb or damage anything, and laid her palm against the nearest tree¡¯s trunk. The bark was firm and unyielding, yet she could feel warmth beneath the hard exterior. If it was an illusion then it was an awfully convincing one.

    Marvelling at the heat, quite unlike that of any plant she¡¯d encountered, it occurred to Derzina that they may be far more than they appeared. That there was something unnatural at work behind the grove¡¯s existence went without saying, but she had assumed the trees were ordinary enough.

    ¡°Is there any magic present within these trees?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°I detected the faintest hint when you touched it, but beyond that I can sense nothing of them or the rest of the grove.¡±

    Derzina frowned, how could that be? If there was no magic, why hadn¡¯t the plants withered and died? Even without the demons¡¯ corruption, from which it seemingly had no protection, there was no water to be found in these lands. At least, not on the surface.

    She looked down at the mossy ground at her feet. Could there be a hidden spring nurturing the grove from below?

    It seemed the most plausible explanation, though she could see no way of confirming it short of digging for it. Deciding that the source of the grove¡¯s vitality was of little consequence, Derzina walked deeper.

    She passed more than a dozen trees and was approaching the grove¡¯s centre, yet she could still find no sign of the light that led her here or any like it. Despite her lack of success, she felt sure it must be concealed within the leaves or behind one of the trees. If she just kept looking, she was bound to discover it eventually.

    After staring at the trees, which she noted were almost identical, until she grew frustrated with her search, Derzina sat down upon the grove¡¯s mossy floor. Though the grove was too alien for her to feel comfortable sleeping here, it made for a nicer place to rest her legs than the barren landscape beyond it.

    Running her hand through the ubiquitous moss, she was appreciating its softness when she felt a slight tremor in the earth and the tree before her split open. The wood and bark peeled back as if of their own accord, disgorging a tide of white grubs.

    With a startled cry, Derzina scuttled back as the insects poured forth. They continued until there was a mound of squirming insects that would have come up to her ankle, had she not moved, and the flow ceased. Recovering from her initial surprise, Derzina simply stood and watched.

    As unexpected as their arrival had been, she had little to fear from such tiny and helpless creatures. Numerous as they were, nothing about them seemed dangerous. Though she still had no desire for them to touch her and kept her distance from them as they writhed on the ground.

    Acting in concert, they slowly came together in the shape of a head. It was difficult to tell, as grubs were far from a precise medium to work with, but it vaguely resembled a human¡¯s. The mouth opened, revealing a tongue composed of the soft, pale insects and spoke in a voice formed from the sound of the creatures rubbing together.

    ¡°Interloper in the domain of the great Soarister, identify yourself.¡±

    After taking a moment to process that she was being addressed by a collection of grubs, Derzina introduced herself. ¡°My name is Derzina, I¡¯ve travelled here from the city of Ortesia.¡±

    ¡°And for what reason do you intrude upon this scared land?¡±

    ¡°I am bound for the Great Rift, passing through your lands by chance. I did not realize they were sacrosanct.¡±

    ¡°A feeble excuse,¡± the voice boomed in its alien tone, ¡°all know Soarister.¡±

    ¡°My apologies,¡± Derzina said, bowing her head, ¡°I have spent my entire life within the city walls and know little of the outside world. This is the first time I¡¯ve heard the name Soarister, and I am wholly ignorant of his will.¡±

    The bugs that made up the face confronting her seethed with activity, losing cohesion for a few moments before resolving back into the strange visage they were portraying. ¡°If you speak the truth, then listen well. No creature, barring his subjects, are allowed within the bounds of Soarister¡¯s realm without his express permission.¡±

    ¡°And how would I obtain such permission? Does he live around here?¡± It was unlikely that such permission would matter in their quest, but Derzina was curious about this unknown ruler claiming dominion so close to her former home.

    ¡°He dwells in his native realm; this blighted world is still too corrupted to be worthy of his presence. If you seek a boon, then you must request it through his servants; only his favoured may commune with him directly.¡±

    ¡°If I were to ask you for the boon of free passage through your lands, would you grant it?¡±

    ¡°To an unknown interloper?¡± The grubs generating the voice shook to produce a tone of outrage, several of them falling out of place and crawling back. ¡°Perhaps other servants of Soarister would display such imprudence, but I have wisdom enough not to commit such an error.¡±Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°If you are unwilling to grant it freely,¡± Derzina said, ¡°then is there anything I could offer in exchange for this boon?¡±

    ¡°I would accept the service of you or others, or an offering of food. Though I doubt that has any relevance to a lone traveller. Unless I am mistaken, you have little of either to offer.¡±

    ¡°You have the right of it, it appears I have nothing to offer. I assume that means I need to leave?¡±

    ¡°Indeed, though you may stay for a time under my supervision if you so desire.¡±

    Deriza blinked. ¡°I apologize for my rudeness, but why? I thought you didn¡¯t want me here.¡±

    ¡°Your presence is of no concern to me; I am merely an instrument of Soarister¡¯s will. So long as you are properly supervised, and cause no disruption within his realm, he would be willing to tolerate your presence for a time.¡±

    ¡°As much as I would like to continue our conversation,¡± Derzina said, ¡°I should probably be going, I have pressing business at the Great Rift.¡±

    ¡°Wait,¡± Atasimon interjected, speaking within Derzina¡¯s mind. ¡°I agree that we shouldn¡¯t linger over long, but before you depart, ask him about the intentions of this Soarister he serves. I would like to know more of this new force encroaching upon our world. Though he may appear benign, I think it wise to mistrust any creatures who would make their home out here. Especially those supposedly from another world of which I know nothing.¡±

    ¡°Very well.¡± Derzina held similar suspicions. She had thought it best not to pursue them now, to avoid wasting time or angering their host.

    ¡°Before I go,¡± Derzina said, speaking aloud, ¡°may I ask that you enlighten me further about the one you serve? What does he wish of this world? Beyond that his lands are left undisturbed by its inhabitants.¡±

    ¡°A fine question,¡± the voice said, sounding pleased for the first time. ¡°Soarister¡¯s greatest desire is to rejuvenate the land, that simple plants and animals might find homes here; as they have within the humble sanctuary I have the honour of overseeing.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Derzina said, ¡°how can they grow here? From what I can understand there appears to be little magic here, how could the land possibly be restored without a great deal of magic?¡±

    If his servant was telling the truth, Soarister had done the impossible. Derzina doubted even a god¡¯s intervention would be enough to restore the land that ordinary things might grow their again. What manner of being was this mysterious Soarister then?

    ¡°If you seek insight into how Soarister performs his miracles, then I have little to offer. He brings life where nothing could otherwise live. Though even for the great Soarister, it is a monumental task and he requires the assistance of all who will give it.¡±

    ¡°It is certainly a noble aim and were I not otherwise occupied with my own task of great importance; I would be delighted to assist in whatever small way I can.¡± She spoke primarily of out of politeness, though Soarister¡¯s cause did sound admirable.

    ¡°If you speak truly, there may indeed be a way you can aid Soarister that does not ask much of you in time or resources. You are no clearly no demon, yet you said that you were travelling through these lands. Thus, you must be able to go where Soarister¡¯s servants, who cannot survive beyond the reach of his influence, cannot reach.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Derzina said. ¡°Do you wish me to convey something beyond the bounds of your grove? Perhaps a message?¡±

    ¡°We have little need of messengers, all servants of Soarister know his will. I wish you to carry something of another nature entirely, if you are so willing.¡±

    A lone grub separated from the head and moved toward Derzina. It opened its mouth and deposited a tiny brown seed at her feet.

    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Derzina asked, picking up the seed. From what she could tell, it seemed perfectly ordinary.

    ¡°A seed, as I¡¯m sure you¡¯re aware. Though one quite unlike those the trees around us sprung from. While most plants thrive off the bounty of the natural world, the one which I hope to entrust to you needs a powerful source of magic to flourish. You shall find a multitude of such locations within the Great Rift. So, what say you? Will you carry it?¡±

    ¡°What will this plant do once it¡¯s grown?¡± The thought of something feeding off magic to some unknown end was unsettling.

    ¡°If allowed to grow, it shall bring forth a portion Soarister¡¯s power so that he might continue his grand work of allowing life to return to this world.¡±

    ¡°Allow me a moment to consider your proposal, it would not do for me to take on a task of such import without proper consideration.¡±

    ¡°As you wish, take all the time that you need.¡±

    Derzina turned inward once more, addressing the god dwelling within. ¡°What do you think? Should we bear this seed as he asks?¡±

    ¡°I still have little trust for this Soarister,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°but I doubt his servant¡¯s request will do any harm. It¡¯s not as if this land could get much worse, and there is some chance that planting this seed may lead to much good.¡±

    Nodding to herself, Derzina refocused on reality and spoke to the head formed of grubs. ¡°I have considered your request, and can see little reason to refuse.¡± She drew herself up and tucked the seed into her pocket. ¡°I can offer no guarantee of success as I proceed into these lands that are both unfamiliar and hostile, but if it is within my power, I shall carry this seed to a suitable location. Is there anything I should know about planting it?¡±

    ¡°Only that you should bury it in the earth as close to a source of powerful magic as you can manage. If you can do that much, it will be able to survive on its own from there.¡±

    ¡°I shall remember that, thank you for putting your trust in me. Glad as I am to have found your grove and met you, I should probably be on my way.¡±

    ¡°Before you depart,¡± the head said, the insects that composed it moving slowly toward her, ¡°I would bestow upon you a token of Soarister¡¯s favour, that his servants might recognise your service.¡±

    ¡°What manner of token?¡± Derzina asked, standing her ground before the approaching swarm of grubs.

    ¡°A simple mark upon your forehead.¡±

    Derzina blanched. ¡°Made with bugs?¡±

    ¡°If that is not agreeable to you, then I can provide you with a more tangible token for you to carry along with the seed.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I think that would be preferable.¡±

    ¡°Then place your hand against the tree,¡± Soarister¡¯s servant said, the grubs that made up its eyes fixed on a tree behind Derzina.

    She did as instructed, setting her hand against the bark.

    ¡°Now what?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Good, now keep it there for a few moments while I work.¡±

    A thin strip of the tree¡¯s rough exterior peeled free and wound itself around her wrist until it formed a bracelet.

    ¡°Will they truly recognise such a simple token?¡± It was little more than band of bark, free of any ornamentation or marking.

    ¡°It may appear simple to your eyes, but to the servants of Soarister it contains a wealth of information. If you should happen across any of them, show them this token and they will know of your service.¡±

    She withdrew her hand, and the head continued, ¡°We are done here, you may go now. I wish you a safe journey.¡±

    With a dip of her head, Derzina echoed his farewell and went on her way.

 12 - Taking Stock

    ¡°From the quartermaster¡¯s report,¡± Vont said, standing before Meztraxia in his command tent, ¡°we have enough crystals to safeguard our army for at least a fortnight.¡±

    ¡°That will suffice,¡± Meztraxia said, ¡°though we¡¯ll have to see about obtaining more along the way.¡± He went back to looking at his maps, only to notice that Vont was still there. ¡°Do you need something else?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing important, my lord, I was simply wondering if we couldn¡¯t have killed the remaining humans and taken their city for ourselves. Then we would no longer need to worry about corruption.¡±

    ¡°Does it terrify you so that you¡¯d prefer to hideaway behind walls built by humans?¡± Meztraxia asked, amused.

    ¡°No, my lord. I as happy to serve you as ever in the field, my concern is for the women and children. Would it not be better if they had a safe place to live?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps it would, and they¡¯re welcome to conquer a city for themselves if they desire one so badly. But such things are of no concern to me; the Demon King tasked me with continuing his revenge against the humans, and that is precisely what I intend to do.¡± He punctuated his point by slamming the table with his fist, and Vont flinched.

    His aide looked as if he wished to retreat and abandon his ill-founded line of questioning, but he remained in place as Meztraxia rose from his seat and continued. ¡°Their cities are no place for even the weakest among us. I would erase all trace of the humans¡¯ presence upon this world if I had the time. Unfortunately, that shall have to wait until the humans themselves are all dead.¡± He stepped in close to the shorter demon, their bright red skin paling in fear. ¡°That is our holy mission, and you would do well to remember it. Now go, and see to it that the troops are ready to march.¡±

    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± Ducking his head, Vont fled the tent.

    Full of righteous anger, mostly directed toward the humans, Meztraxia found himself too wound up to continue planning. Instead he paced back and forth, imagining all the other cities he would bring to ruin. It would only get easier from here; he could already feel the power he¡¯d stolen from the god he¡¯d slain becoming part of him. If he could keep steal the strength of a few more, then he wouldn¡¯t even need an army.

    Reminding himself that he still had conquering to do and many preparations to make before that day came, he calmed himself enough to return to work. Much as he¡¯d prefer to entrust command to someone else, that he might focus only on destroying the humans, there was simply no one else he could trust with it. He was the only one the fallen Demon King had given his favour to; how could he ever allow another to give him commands?

    Plotting the course of his army¡¯s march was tedious work, and blessedly he was almost done, when another of his underlings came calling. Cyaform was tall and broad-shouldered, with light grey skin and three blunt horns. Many years ago, he got into a disagreement with another Demon Lord and had his face disfigured as a result, causing him to appear perpetually in a foul mood. Which, in Meztraxia¡¯s appearance, he generally was.

    ¡°Arxen,¡± he said, calling Meztraxia by his given name despite being a circle beneath him in rank, ¡°my scouts report Lord Nostlinum¡¯s army to be two days away.¡±This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    And of course, he didn¡¯t fail to refer to Meztraxia¡¯s rival by his proper name. If he didn¡¯t know the man, Meztraxia would have thought Cyaform might be trying to get under his skin. However, he¡¯d known his fellow Demon Lord for years, and Meztraxia was certain that was exactly what his underling was trying to do. Cyaform had always been more brave than clever; were it not for his service and the men who followed him, Meztraxia would have killed him for his insolence.

    ¡°My scouts, you mean,¡± Meztraxia said, making a vain attempt at putting the man in his place. Even death likely wouldn¡¯t be able to manage that. ¡°How many does Nostlinum bring with him?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps twelve thousand men.¡±

    Meztraxia tapped his fingers on the table. ¡°Scarcely enough to replace our losses, and fewer than was promised. Fetch Vexoxin, we may need to alter our plans.¡±

    ¡°Fetch him yourself,¡± Cyaform said, taking a seat at the table and picking his teeth.

    While Meztraxia could easily have called for one of his attendants waiting outside, he simply could not let this insult stand. ¡°If you no longer desire to follow my orders, then you¡¯re free to take your men and leave. Though I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll mourn the loss of their glory, just as I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll mourn the loss of your head.¡±

    ¡°Are you threatening me?¡± Cyaform demanded, hand going to the dagger on his belt.

    ¡°Of course I¡¯m threatening you, you ugly fool. Now do as your bid before I remove that useless appendage attached to your neck.¡±

    Cyaform got to his feet, towering over the seated Meztraxia. ¡°You can¡¯t talk to me like this.¡±

    ¡°And yet I am. I still have much work to do, so hurry up and make your choice.¡±

    Cyaform¡¯s whole body tensed, as if to spring at his superior who continued to coolly await the outcome. Ultimately, torn face twitching, Cyaform walked out. He returned less than a few minutes later with the other commander of their forces. Though Meztraxia¡¯s two direct subordinates shared the same rank, the two were rather different. Unlike Cyaform, who was very much in his prime, Vexoxin was old and withered, with deep blue skin and a single broken horn. His advanced age had also brought him wisdom that was sorely lacking in his escort. In Meztraxia¡¯s estimation, he was the far more dangerous of the two. Fortunately, he had sense enough to know his place; if they were to lose their leader, then their cause would die with him.

    ¡°You sent for me, my lord?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Indeed, take a seat.¡±

    Once his two subordinates were seated, Meztraxia continued. ¡°I¡¯ve been told Nostlinum approaches with twelve thousand men. A sizeable force, but not enough for us to confidently strike at one of the larger cities as I had hoped. Thus, I have asked you both here to ask your opinion. Should we wait for additional reinforcements, strike at one of the lesser cities, or press on as I initially intended despite the risks?¡±

    ¡°We should strike wherever we please,¡± Cyaform said, ¡°what do we have to fear from those who cower behind their walls? Has your victory so easily satisfied your taste for blood? I thought you wished to bring humanity to their knees.¡±

    Meztraxia was amazed at the rapidity with which Cyaform had forgotten the reprimand, or perhaps this was his idea of tact.

    ¡°I do, and we shall do so in time one way or another.¡± He gestured for Vexoxin to speak, though even then the old man was slow to oblige him.

    ¡°Normally I would counsel you to wait; the humans¡¯ cities aren¡¯t going anywhere. But Lord Azuren¡¯s demands for us to join his host grow more insistent by the day, if we still wish to win any glory for ourselves then we must strike sooner rather than later. Much as I mislike the idea of assaulting one of their greater cities with our current forces, I fear it is the best course.¡± He bowed his head to Meztraxia. ¡°We shall simply have to trust in your leadership and strength, my lord.¡±

    ¡°So be it. Ready the men. Once Nostlinum arrives, we shall march for the Arid Sea.¡±

    Though whatever water had once stood there was long gone, many of the humans¡¯ greatest cities still stood upon its shores. He would see to it that their cities ended up every bit as barren as the sea.

 13 - The Unknown Threat

    ¡°Who are they?¡± Derzina asked, sighting a dozen figures travelling two abreast in a column. They were still a considerable distance away, and she struggled to make out further detail. ¡°Demons?¡±

    ¡°I assume so, though I don¡¯t recognise their colours. They¡¯re probably not from Mextraxia¡¯s army.¡±

    ¡°What should we do? Attack before they notice us?¡±

    The demons were still a long way off, but they were getting closer and it was only a matter of time before they spotted Derzina.

    ¡°As much as I¡¯d like to put an end to a few more of the loathsome creatures, we¡¯d best avoid them for now. There¡¯s no sense alerting whatever lord they serve to our presence; our task is too important to take such a risk. I¡¯m still recovering from my encounter with Meztraxia, I¡¯d rather not deal with another Demon Lord and his forces.¡±

    ¡°Then should I hide?¡± Derzina asked, already searching for somewhere to conceal herself on the empty plain.

    ¡°Not yet, I¡¯d like get to get a closer look at them.¡± Atasimon said, her shadowy veil appearing around Derzina.

    ¡°Whatever for?¡±

    ¡°To learn more of them. The world has changed much in my absence, and I wish to know more of our enemy.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s wise? I thought you said we should avoid attracting any notice.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about in that regard. So long as you have my veil to shield you, they haven¡¯t the slightest chance of noticing you.¡±

    Trusting in the goddess¡¯ magic and her words, Derzina sought out the demons. They were travelling at a brisk pace for mortals, though lacking Atasimon¡¯s divine energy and encumbered by their equipment rendered them much slower than Derzina.

    More lightly equipped than the soldiers of Meztraxia¡¯s army, Derzina at first thought they wore no armour at all. But as she drew closer, she noticed the cloth garments covering their upper bodies were unusually thick and covered in rivets, denoting some form of armour beneath. Judging from the fresh bloodstains on their clothing, they must have seen combat recently.

    Walking with their long spears in hand, they passed within a few steps of Derzina without so much as glancing in her direction. She¡¯d expected the goddess to be able to conceal them, but experiencing it now that she was so close was a different experience entirely.

    Being almost within arm¡¯s reach of them was both unsettling and thrilling, like she had the power to do anything. Not that the power belonged to her, of course, but it was still part of her.

    Seeing the demons up close also reminded Derzina of what they¡¯d done to her city, and her hand twitched toward the non-existent sword at her belt. No matter how much she¡¯d like to take vengeance on them, the goddess was right that they shouldn¡¯t draw attention to themselves.

    With the self-control she¡¯d cultivated over years of Paladin training, Derzina suppressed her anger. She reminded herself that the time for revenge would come soon enough, and they¡¯d repay the demons for what they¡¯d done to her city ten times over.

    ¡°Anything in particular you want to know?¡± Derzina asked, speaking within her mind.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to know where they came from and where they¡¯re going,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°That would make for a good start, though someone I doubt they¡¯ll be so good as to tell us even if we were to ask.¡±

    Derzina looked out across the black plain in the direction the demons were travelling, only to find more of the same without the slightest hint of civilisation. And yet, the demons didn¡¯t seem provisioned for a long journey. ¡°I have no idea where they came from, but I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll be travelling much longer. Probably not more than a day or two.¡±The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°What makes you say that?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re not carrying much in the way of supplies, and I doubt there¡¯s much to eat out here.¡±

    Though given that demons lived out here, she wasn¡¯t sure what they ate in the first place. The thought drove home to Derzina how little either of them knew about the demons; Atasimon was right to seek out knowledge about them.

    ¡°I¡¯m almost tempted to follow them, but maintaining my veil for that long would hardly be worth it. We¡¯ll likely need all the power I can muster once we reach the Great Rift. Continue following them for now.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps we could¡ª" Atasimon began, while Derzina kept pace with their quarry, only to trail off when one of the demons in the middle of column spoke.

    ¡°Do you think that creature is still following us?¡± the demon asked, a woman with yellow skin.

    The comment startled Derzina and she was wondering how they could have noticed them through the goddess¡¯ veil, when she realised they were talking about something else.

    ¡°I doubt it, we haven¡¯t seen it for almost a whole day now,¡± the blue-skinned male demon walking beside the other replied.

    ¡°But why would it stop chasing us? It¡¯s not as if we stand any chance of outrunning it.¡±

    ¡°Maybe one of the others managed to wound it.¡±

    ¡°None of them even saw it coming, it would be a miracle if they were able to defend themselves. And even if they did hurt it, it didn¡¯t seem to slow it down when it tore them apart. If it truly gave up the hunt, it was likely only because it had eaten its fill.¡±

    The man made a disparaging sound. ¡°Or maybe it didn¡¯t want to travel this far south. Have you ever seen anything like that this far from the rift?¡±

    ¡°No, and I hope never to see it or it¡¯s like ever again.¡±

    From there the demons lapsed into silence and Derzina parted ways with them, going to considerable effort to create distance between them quickly so that Atasimon could lower her veil.

    Once they were free of them, the goddess sighed. ¡°I loathe being unable to even spare the strength to destroy them and their master. Never before have I felt so helpless. I couldn¡¯t even avenge my dear sister or save her city, and now I have little more power than a mortal.¡±

    ¡°I know exactly how you feel,¡± Derzina said, ¡°I bear much the same terrible burden. All I could do was watch as I lost my family, my home; everything.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not the same. I don¡¯t mean to make light of what you suffered, but you¡¯re not a god. You¡¯re not expected to protect people like I am. I failed them all, even you. Perhaps you most of all.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologise to me,¡± Derzina said, resolutely, ¡°you did everything you could to save us and defeat Meztraxia.¡±

    ¡°But I didn¡¯t, there was much I could have done differently. I was terribly reckless and it got the people I was supposed to safeguard killed; it nearly got me killed.¡±

    ¡°I know it must be hard, but we can¡¯t afford to dwell on such things. It was a time of great chaos; I doubt anyone was thinking clearly.¡± Derzina certainly hadn¡¯t been.

    ¡°I should have known better. I nearly defeated Meztraxia, even with his strange magic. Perhaps I could have finished him for good if I¡¯d stayed.¡±

    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you?¡± Derzina asked. She knew the question wouldn¡¯t help the goddess¡¯ mood, yet if there was a chance they could have destroyed Meztraxia then and there, she had to know about it.

    ¡°I was terrified. When the mist touched me, I nearly unravelled entirely. I don¡¯t quite know how to describe the feeling, but there was something truly terrible behind his power, I could sense it. Meztraxia seems of little concern next to whatever that being was.¡±

    ¡°You could have told me all this sooner.¡± Weren¡¯t they in this together?

    ¡°I know, and I should have.¡± There was a pause, long enough that Derzina wondered if the goddess had abruptly ended the conversation until Atasimon¡¯s voice returned, choked with sorrow. ¡°I was ashamed, I didn¡¯t want to admit my failure to myself let alone you. You must think me a truly pathetic excuse for a god. If only my sister had survived instead of me, she never would have made such a mess of things.¡±

    ¡°Given the circumstances you did the best that you could, I¡¯m sure of it. And I don¡¯t think you¡¯re the least bit pathetic. Even after abruptly appearing in this world to find your sister dead, you still took charge and brought the battle to the enemy. While it may not have been the wisest move, it still took true determination.¡± Derzina would also have preferred that Ortesia survived, but she was never going to say that to Atasimon. True as it was, it was far too cruel to say aloud even if Atasimon surely knew it already.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Atasimon said, sounding somewhat relieved. ¡°Silly as it is for me to draw encouragement from the speech of a single mortal, your words and conviction have made things easier. While little else has gone my way, at least I have been gifted with an exceptional vessel.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re too kind. I am merely a servant. First of your sister, and now of you.¡±

 14 - Fields of Crystal

    Heading in the opposite direction of the demons they¡¯d encountered, Derzina left them far behind. As they went further north, the terrain slowly shifted. Small patches of multicoloured crystal grew from the earth, spread out like the leaves of a bush. There was a certain beauty in the colourful, finely formed materials, though Derzina kept her distance. Whatever their appearance, they were likely far more dangerous than they seemed, given where they were found.

    The closer they got to the Great Rift¡¯s supposed location, the more numerous the crystals became until they covered much of the ground. It became difficult to walk without getting uncomfortably close to the vibrant clusters protruding from the black soil. The artificial thicket reminded her of the grove they¡¯d passed through, though in Derzina¡¯s estimation this was easily the more sinister of the two.

    Strange as Soarister¡¯s creation was, it concerned her far less than the manifestation of dangerous and likely corrupt magic before her. If the demons made use of it, then it was surely a substance best avoided wherever possible. Despite that, they were now forced to walk through fields of the magical crystals if they wanted to get anywhere. She couldn¡¯t feel them having any effect on her, and she imagined Atasimon would have warned her if they did, but it seemed only a matter of time.

    Pointless a task as it was, keeping an eye on the crystals helped to soothe Derzina¡¯s unease and it proved to be of use when she saw the colour drain from one of the patches. She stopped in her tracks and watched as it was reduced to dull rock in the span of seconds. A faint shimmer of colour passed through the air, briefly highlighting a shape moving amidst the crystals in the distance. The shimmer faded and with it the shape was faded back into invisibility.

    ¡°Did you see that?¡± Derzina asked, speaking internally.

    ¡°I did,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°I¡¯m guessing that¡¯s what the demons were talking about.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure? It didn¡¯t seem dangerous to me.¡± She found it hard to imagine something which peacefully fed off the crystals could inspire such terror in the demons.

    ¡°It would explain why they didn¡¯t see it coming, and if it feeds off the magic here, then I¡¯m sure it must be a being of considerable power. We should avoid encountering it while I¡¯m still recovering, otherwise it may cut our journey tragically short.¡±

    Though Derzina wasn¡¯t convinced of the threat before them, it still seemed prudent to heed the goddess¡¯ wisdom. Watching as more of the crystals were drained of colour, Derzina determined the creature¡¯s rough position and trajectory. She moved horizontally from its path, aiming to keep well clear of it.

    Running along while keeping an eye on the creature, she was surprised to see its course and speed change dramatically. Crystals lost their colour with such rapidity that she caught only the faintest glimpse of what was draining them. She continued to flee from it, only for it to become apparent that it was both chasing her and that she wouldn¡¯t be able to outrun it.

    ¡°Can you conceal us once more?¡± Derzina asked, seeing no alternative if they were to escape whatever was pursuing them.

    ¡°It appears I must,¡± Atasimon said, and her veil appeared around Derzina who continued her flight after changing direction once more.

    Their pursuer continued straight ahead until it reached the point where Atasimon¡¯s magic had cloaked Derzina, and stopped. The colour around the spot drained away but it went no further, and it was soon out of sight.

    ¡°Good,¡± Derzina said, ¡°it¡¯s lost our trail. You can probably lower your veil now.¡±

    ¡°Gladly.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s surroundings returned to normal and she continued to make her way northward. Disconcerting as the brief chase had been, it was nothing worth getting worked up over. They were sure to face far worse things within the Great Rift and wherever they went beyond that, assuming they survived that long. Other than right back to Meztraxia, Derzina could think of no worse places for them to go. Yet it was their only chance at defeating the Demon Lord who¡¯d destroyed her city.

    As she continued, Derzina encountered several strange looking creatures living amidst the crystals; from many legged beasts with hard shells to incredibly soft beings that oozed between tiny gaps. She kept a wide berth from all of them regardless of their form. Fortunately, none of them noticed her as the invisible entity that fed off colour had.

    Whether or not the others were actually harmless or simply had no interest in chasing after, was something Derizna was happy to leave open to speculation. They had enough battles ahead of them as it was without disturbing whatever dwelt here without good cause. Presumably the demons intent on gathering the crystals had no such luxuries, it seemed strange to her that they would go to such lengths in order to obtain them. Or perhaps she was simply attributing too much rationality to demons, she doubted the way they thought was anything like humans.

    Perhaps in their mind, their task was every bit as important as hers. If that were the case it was no wonder that they¡¯d risk their lives, they may very well consider it a great honour. Derzina chuckled to herself at the thought of the demons¡¯ honour, if they¡¯d had any of that they never would have invaded humanity¡¯s old world in the first place.

    Reaching a dip in the ground, with crystals growing from the walls on either side, Derzina stopped to check if anything dwelt within. Not seeing a single creature stirring amongst the minerals, she walked in while avoiding direct contact with the crystals around her. Even if they weren¡¯t magical, which they clearly were, they also looked rather sharp and that offered ample reason for her to avoid touching them.

    She did, however, pause to admire a particularly large and splendid formation in the deepest part of the cleft. The colours pulsed and shifted, forming endless patterns that quite entranced her. Watching waves of light blue and green soar across the structure, she was reminded of the wave of light that had served as Ortesia¡¯s symbol. Eyes moistening, she was thinking about moving on when the display abruptly ended as the colour vanished from the crystals before her.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    She threw herself to the side and a rush of wind passed her, followed by something smashing into the wall behind where she¡¯d been standing. Catching only a brief glimpse of her attacker, a towering vaguely humanoid shape rendered briefly visible by the colour it had absorbed, Derzina fled. Without a word, Atasimon¡¯s veil fell over her again and the world darkened around her.

    She kept running, the only sound her feet scraping against the ground. Once she was back on relatively level ground, she glanced back and ran all the harder. Though she couldn¡¯t feel anything amiss, she saw the long fingers sinking into the dark veil that enshrouded her.

    ¡°Do something!¡± Derzina demanded within her mind, the veil alone clearly wouldn¡¯t suffice this time.

    Pointed tendrils of shadow shot toward the creature and pierced deep within it. In a spray of colour, their attacker released its hold on the veil and fell back. Derzina kept running and it kept pace, though it remained beyond arm¡¯s reach this time. Whenever Atasimon tried to skewer it once more, there was no sign of it making contact with their pursuer.

    Acutely aware that Atasimon¡¯s power would run out sooner or later, Derzina searched for another means of escape. Sighting a narrow ravine ahead, and recalling the creature¡¯s considerable size, she decided to risk entering it. She entered at a run and the walls shuddered behind her, accompanied by a flash of colour, prompting Derzina to hurry further in.

    Rounding the corner, she encountered a solid wall ahead and put her back to it. There she waited, until she felt sure the creature hadn¡¯t followed them inside.

    ¡°I think you can remove your veil,¡± Derzina said, ¡°at least for now.¡±

    Atasimon did as requested, leaving Derzina defenceless once more. As uncomfortable as her vulnerability made her, it was essential to preserve as much of the goddess¡¯ energy as possible. It didn¡¯t seem like the creature could reach them in here and if they waited long enough, perhaps it might leave. At the very least, it would give Atasimon an opportunity to rest.

    Derzina watched the crystals around her intently, each shift in their colour that might signal the creature¡¯s presence causing her to tense. Not that there was much she could do if it did find its way in after her. Without the goddess¡¯ assistance she had no hope of defeating it, or retreating from the corner she¡¯d backed herself in. Thinking on how trapped she was made her question how wise this idea had been. Yet, despite her disquiet, she could come up with no better alternative. She couldn¡¯t outrun it, and if she were forced to fight then this was as good a place as any to make her stand.

    Seeing and hearing no sign of her pursuer after a long while of tense waiting, Derzina slowly moved forward. She approached the entrance of the little ravine she¡¯d sheltered in and paused. Confirming that the crystals around her were still as vibrant as ever, she was about to take her first step out onto open ground when she heard a slight shift in the dirt above.

    Not wanting to take any chances, she stepped back and something sharp grazed her arm. It cut right through the cloth and flesh as she fled back inside. Examining the wound, she saw the claw marks had made a clean, shallow cut. She could easily have lost the whole arm had she been slower to react, but there was no point worrying about that. Especially when Derzina could instead busy herself with worrying about how she was ever going to escape.

    She¡¯d hoped her pursuer would lose interest and seek easier prey, but evidently that wasn¡¯t going to happen anytime soon. For whatever reason, it seemed fixated on her. Perhaps it was simply its nature to chase things until it devoured them or it may be after the divine energy dwelling within her. If it consumed magic, then Atasimon¡¯s must be very tempting indeed. Surely far better than what the crystals had to offer.

    ¡°What should we do?¡± Derzina asked, so thoroughly out of ideas that she deemed it prudent to interrupt the goddess¡¯ rest. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if continuing to wait will get us anywhere.¡± For all they knew, the creature could linger outside their hideaway for days.

    ¡°I agree,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°though I¡¯m not certain what else we can do. Much as I¡¯d like to take the fight to it, it seems to have become rather cautious after I wounded it. Likely it will just continue to wear us down without putting itself in danger.¡±

    Derzina hadn¡¯t put much thought into defeating the creature, partly because she¡¯d be relying solely on Atasimon to do so and if the goddess had been confident in doing so, she would have said so. Hearing Atasimon mention the idea, however, gave her an idea.

    ¡°It only seems to be cautious when you¡¯re protecting me.¡± It had been rather quick to attack her when she was on her own. ¡°If I leave unprotected, then I¡¯m sure it will pounce the moment it can get at me.¡±

    ¡°And how exactly would that help us? I can¡¯t see you being torn to shreds benefitting our cause overmuch.¡±

    The goddess was right to be wary, but Derzina thought this was the best chance they were likely to get. ¡°I have no intention of dying here if I can avoid it. I was thinking that if you could raise me out of here then conceal your magic until the creature approaches, it would give you an opportunity to strike a decisive blow.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that strike you as rather dangerous?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°If I fail to strike it down or I¡¯m too slow in doing so, then we¡¯ll never defeat Meztraxia.¡±

    ¡°We shall never defeat him regardless if we¡¯re not willing to take risks, and I trust in you to protect me.¡±

    The goddess murmured something that Derzina couldn¡¯t make out, followed by, ¡°Then prepare yourself, we shall leave in a few moments.¡±

    While Derzina waited, she focused on the point where she¡¯d last seen the creature. Her noticing it wouldn¡¯t do much good, given that it all depended on Atasimon, but tracking its movements would give her a certain peace of mind. If things went poorly, at least she¡¯d be able to see her impending death. The shadows of the goddess¡¯ veil gripped the sides of the ravine and propelled Derzina out in one motion.

    Expecting the leap, she landed well and set off running. Though it would be more difficult to spot the creature this way, it seemed the best way to lure it to her. It appeared to be intelligent and it would know something was up if she stood her ground. Dirt flew as Derzina sprinted across the cracked expanse, dodging crystals while keeping an eye on their colour. She soon left the ravine where she¡¯d sheltered behind, without a trail of drained crystals following her. Either the creature wasn¡¯t chasing her or it was taking a different path.

    Figuring there was no point in running further, Derzina stopped that she might keep a better watch on the crystals. She turned on the spot, craning her head as she tried to keep all of them in view, but still nothing changed. It was starting to look like it had given up the chase after all when Derzina collapsed and hit the ground hard.

    She realised only after the fact that Atasimon had seized control for an instant and hurled her to the ground. Rolling away from whatever threat must be there if the goddess had taken such an action, she caught a glimpse of a mass of pointed shadows retracting from a wave of colour. She assumed the creature was either dead or sorely wounded and set off running once more. Regardless of its condition, there was no sense sticking around here. She ran for hours before she finally decided they were safe, and slowed her pace.

 15 - Into the Rift

    Derzina looked out across the chasm before her, its dark depths of twisted stone extending far beyond her sight. For all that she had heard of its size, she still found herself unprepared for the sheer scale of the Great Rift. Beholding the vast emptiness between the sharp-edged cliffs of black rock unnerved Derzina; it looked large enough to swallow the whole of Ortesia¡¯s city with room to spare.

    This was the result of the gods¡¯ clash with the Demon King? She tried to imagine a battle that could cause such destruction, only to find that it was beyond her. For all the power Meztraxia and the gods had displayed, it was nothing compared to what had been unleashed to form the Great Rift.

    ¡°Have you ever seen anything like it?¡± she asked, addressing the goddess within.

    ¡°I visited King¡¯s Canyon back on Oelindrey a few times; it was quite the impressive sight, though it was tiny compared to this. Size aside, I don¡¯t think the Great Rift compares very favourably. There was life in King¡¯s Canyon; a wealth of tiny creatures and hardy plants that sheltered within it. Here there is only those damnable crystals, and whatever foul beings dwell below.¡±

    ¡°And yet,¡± Derzina said, sighing, ¡°we must descend into this wretched abyss if we are to defeat the creature responsible for destroying my home. Is there truly no other way? A place as ill-omened as this seems fit to bring only ruin upon us.¡±

    ¡°I share your doubts, but we must be resolute. Uncertain as it may be, this is the only path that remains to us if we are to discover the source of his power.¡±

    ¡°And if we cannot?¡± Derzina asked, staring down into the darkness.

    ¡°Then we are lost. But enough talk of what may be, let us see what awaits us within the rift.¡±

    Derzina walked until she stood before the very point where earth gave way to emptiness. Looking down from the precipice, she caught the metallic scent of blood on the wind. By the strength of the odour, it seemed as if the source must be nearby. Yet wherever she looked, she could find no trace of blood.

    Deciding that an unpleasant smell was the least of her worries, Derzina climbed down the cliff. Atasimon¡¯s shadows did the bulk of the work, making the otherwise arduous climb easier than the journey here. The god¡¯s veil adhered to sheer rock where Derzina¡¯s mortal hands would have found no purchase and carried her down at speed.

    As she hurtled downward into darkness with only nominal control of her descent, Derzina felt the icy grip of fear settle over her. If she had been relying solely on herself during the climb, she would surely have clung to the rock in terrified paralysis or fallen to her doom.

    But she was not alone; a goddess, whose sister had protected Derzina for her entire life, shared her fate. Clinging to the tenuous faith that still dwelt within her heart, Derzina grit her teeth and reminded herself of all that was at stake. For all the fear that the sharp rocks below and the horrors that were sure to be among them evoked, they were nothing compared to what they must face if they were to defeat Meztraxia.

    Sharing her concerns would likely have done much to ease Derzina¡¯s mind, but she could not bring herself to admit such weakness to the goddess nor did Derzina dare to distract Atasimon whilst they were climbing. They travelled deep beneath the surface, passing through chaotic formations of stone and leaving the suns¡¯ light far behind.

    The depths were silent but for the whispering wind, while the stench of blood only grew stronger. It made her gag, though wondering as to the smell¡¯s source helped distract from the darkness enveloping her. Was the carcass of some great beast rotting nearby? It must be truly colossal to have contained such a vast quantity of blood.

    Though it made little difference given the darkness, Derzina found it reassuring to keep her eyes closed. In some way that she didn¡¯t fully understand, it helped isolate her from her surroundings. At least it helped right up until the point where they suddenly stopped moving.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± Derzina blurted out, opening her eyes and looking around frantically. The darkness around her offered no answers, serving only to amplify her fear.

    ¡°My strength is waning,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°and I must rest a while before we continue. By my reckoning we are nearing the bottom and I would prefer that we face whatever dwells in this accursed place with some fraction of my power behind us. Seeing this cave during my climb, I thought it a perfect place for a short respite.¡±

    Carried by Atasimon¡¯s veil, Derzina was carried horizontally through a narrow opening the rock. Though she could still see nothing, she felt comparatively safe in this enclosed area. Feeling foolish at having reacted with such alarm, she took a deep breath. ¡°Oh, of course. I just was caught unawares, what with this blasted gloom. I don¡¯t mean to be impolite, but how can you be certain we¡¯re close to the bottom?¡±Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    ¡°I saw a faint light, far below.¡±

    ¡°I had my eyes closed, how could you see anything?¡±

    ¡°While we may share a body, I am not limited to your mortal senses. We would not have gotten very far if I were. You can likely see the light for yourself, if you look for it.¡±

    Derzina peered into the gloom, struggling to discern anything amidst the endless black. Catching a glimpse of the faintest flicker of red, she took it to be but a figment of her imagination. Yet as she continued to stare, she realized that tiny light was simply a great distance away and quite real.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°I assume it must be magical in nature.¡±

    ¡°As do I, though I can discern little of its nature amidst this tangled mess of magic that befouls this place. I thought our battle against the Demon King would leave the world scarred in its wake, but nothing of this scale.¡±

    ¡°Is there truly that much magic present? Everything I have seen has been normal enough.¡±

    ¡°It is the greatest concentration of magical energy I have ever witnessed, barring the wizards¡¯ great spell that led to the merging. Unlike that carefully calculated mixture of arcane and divine, here it is a combination of many disparate sources harnessed into one tightly bound whole.¡±

    ¡°Harnessed? Then is someone controlling all this magic?¡±

    Derzina shuddered, feeling fresh terror at invading the realm of such a powerful being.

    ¡°I can sense nothing directing it and I would be surprised to learn that a being capable of such a feat still remains in this world. Even the greatest of the gods at the height of their power would be hard pressed to control such power. If someone who surpasses even them dwells here, then Meztraxia seems of little importance by comparison.¡±

    ¡°Then I suppose there¡¯s not much sense worrying about something being in control of it,¡± Derzina said, calming down once more.

    ¡°Indeed, we have far more pressing matters to concern ourselves with. Though for the moment, I can see none more pressing than my need for rest. Thus, unless you have something of considerable import to discuss, I would prefer to cut our conversation short.¡±

    ¡°Very well, then I wish you a restful sleep.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, I shall try,¡± Atasimon said, and she faded away until Derzina could barely sense her at all.

    If Derzina had any reason to doubt Atasimon¡¯s strength was flagging, the goddess¡¯ lack of presence confirmed it. Derzina had thought she¡¯d grown used to sharing her mind, but she felt relieved to be alone with her thoughts.

    Lying in the darkness, thinking of what might await them below, Derzina¡¯s exhaustion finally caught up with her and her mind nestled gently into sleep. For all the peace that she had felt as she drifted off, it was soon lost as a dream like no other took hold.

    The darkness that had surrounded her for so long was replaced by an endless tide of crimson. Swept up in its wake, she drifted along as shapes rose from the ground. They were indistinct at first, slowly shifting into more recognisable forms. Despite the strange turn, Derzina felt no alarm; somehow, she knew nothing here could harm here.

    The strange crop continued to sprout, until she was surrounded by humans and demons. Dyed the same deep red as everything else in the dreamworld, they paid her no attention in favour of staring downward. A thunderous cry, full of rage and anguish, shook the ground and the people around her fell to their knees.

    Derzina couldn¡¯t tell whether the gesture was done out in fear or supplication, though she was left with the unaccountable impression that the cry¡¯s source was no longer alive. Was this dream born from the vestiges of the Demon King? If so, then presumably the ones around her were those mortals who had died in the same battle.

    As sound as she thought her assumption to be, she had a faint sense of the emotions of those around her and their anger could only belong to the living. After the depth of hatred her sole encounter with the demons had left her with, Derzina could only imagine how it must have been for those at the height of the war. All in all, the planned destruction of the demon¡¯s world had likely seemed an undeserved mercy.

    Despite her initial detachment, fury swelled within Derzina¡¯s heart and she reached out for the nearest of the demons. Bearing the crimson demon to the ground, she grasped their head with both hands and slammed it down while they struggled. Chaos broke out all around her, as both sides followed Derzina¡¯s example.

    Once her foe stopped twitching beneath her, Derzina moved onto the next. Striking out with her bare hands, she attacked any demon she could reach. Yet the violence brought her no relief, it served only to foster her rage until hatred coursed through her entire being. Stained with the blood of her foes, it wasn¡¯t long before Derzina was covered head-to-toe and became one with the crimson tide around her.

    She lost all sense of time and self, slaying and being slain in turn in the endless battle that enveloped the world. After what felt like an eternity, the dream faded and the empty darkness of reality returned.

    ¡°Can you hear me?¡± Atasimon asked, not for the first time by her tone.

    ¡°I can,¡± Derzina said, breathing heavily. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±

    ¡°I was hoping you could tell me. I was asleep when you started howling like a frenzied animal.¡±

    ¡°I had a strange dream, but I¡¯m fine now.¡±

    As vivid as it had been at the time, the details of the nightmare Derzina lived were already growing hazy.

    ¡°What kind of dream?¡±

    ¡°It was red, everything was red. And we were all killing each other.¡±

    ¡°And have you ever had such a dream before?¡± Atasimon asked, sounding concerned.

    ¡°No, never. It felt almost real.¡±

    ¡°Strange indeed. I fear your experience was born from the influence of this corrupted place.¡±

    ¡°Does it matter? It was still only a dream.¡±

    ¡°Only a dream? I certainly hope so, and perhaps you are right. But it may be something more. I fear I was mistaken to discount the magic present here.¡±

    ¡°Then is there something controlling it after all?¡± Derzina asked. How else could it have sent her a dream.

    ¡°I doubt it. Instead the accumulated magic seems to have acquired a will of its own. An altogether more worrying and unpredictable prospect. But there¡¯s nothing for it; no matter what lies ahead, we cannot turn back.¡±

    ¡°What about me? Should I be worried?¡±

    ¡°I can shield you from its influence while I¡¯m awake, though only time will tell what that dream might have done to your mind.¡±

    Derzina sighed, as if she needed more magic living within her. ¡°Then let us make haste, before any further misfortune can befall us.¡±

 16 - The Gate

    ¡°What precisely are we searching for?¡± Derzina asked, as Atasimon brought them yet deeper beneath the surface.

    ¡°The source of Meztraxia¡¯s power. As to what form that may take, I know no more than you do. Though whatever it is, I imagine I¡¯ll know it when I see it.¡±

    ¡°You seem awfully sure you¡¯ll be able to sense it, especially given that you didn¡¯t notice whatever it was that gave me that dream.¡±

    ¡°You may be right. But as unreliable as my senses may be in this accursed rift, they¡¯re only option for finding what we seek.¡±

    ¡°And? Do you have the faintest sense of where that might be? Or even where we should look?¡± Derzina was already blind down here and if the goddess didn¡¯t have a plan, it only made things all the more uncertain.

    ¡°Not yet. It¡¯s almost impossible to perceive anything beyond our immediate surroundings with all the magic present in the environment.¡±

    ¡°Then are we supposed to wander through the whole Great Rift in the hopes of encountering whatever granted Meztraxia his power?¡± Derzina asked, shaking her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯ve noticed, but this place is enormous; I¡¯ll surely die before we can find anything like that.¡±

    The goddess sighed, pausing in her descent. ¡°Our chances are slim, yes, yet we must continue in spite of the risks.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong, I¡¯m willing to stake my life even on such a dim hope at this stage, but only if there are no better options. I wasn¡¯t the only one in my dream, there were many others with me and it felt like they were real. If I¡¯m not mistaken and they truly dwell within the rift, they may be able to help us find what we seek.¡±

    ¡°A pleasant notion, but what makes you think the denizens of such a place would have even the slightest inclination to help us? Venestamino refused to give us information even on pain of death, and whatever corrupted beings live here must surely be even more hostile than that. We¡¯d be better served asking Meztraxia himself what we wish to know.¡±

    ¡°I understand your hesitation and I share some measure of your trepidation, but I¡¯m not yet convinced of their ill intent. From what I could sense in the dream, they didn¡¯t seem so different from us.¡±

    Only a few vestiges of what she experienced within the dreamscape remained with Derzina, yet she was certain she¡¯d shared some connection with the others. It felt strange to rely so heavily on a mere dream, but these were strange times.

    ¡°Even if they were willing to render us the slightest assistance, I¡¯m no more able to locate them than I am the object of our search.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps you don¡¯t need find them. Why not rely on them to find us instead? If they live down here, then surely their senses are attuned to the Great Rift¡¯s unique nature. I struggle to imagine how they could survive here otherwise.¡±

    ¡°Even if what you¡¯re saying is true,¡± Atasimon said, resuming her descent, ¡°I don¡¯t see how it helps us. I haven¡¯t done anything to conceal our presence, yet nothing has sought us out nor have we seen the slightest sign of another being.¡±

    ¡°Is there some way you could make it easier for them to notice us?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°None that I know of, conspicuous displays are not exactly my forte.¡±

    ¡°Then maybe we need find somewhere we¡¯re likely to be noticed. If they live down here, there must be food and water or whatever it is that sustains them. Do you think you could find something like that?¡±

    ¡°Only if I had something to guide me toward them,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°If there¡¯s a path they frequent or some such, I can likely track them by the signs of their passage but that does us little good when I have no idea where they might live. There doesn¡¯t seem to be anything living in the regions we¡¯ve passed through thus far.¡±

    ¡°And why might that be?¡± Derzina asked, speaking mostly to herself. ¡°Are there parts of the rift that are different to what we¡¯ve seen? More hospitable to live in some way? Can you sense anything like that? Or any sort of abnormalities at all?¡±

    ¡°Not that I¡¯ve noticed, but I may be able to find something if I concentrate. I suppose we can take a short break in the meantime.¡±

    The goddess¡¯ shadows deposited Derzina in a narrow recess and dissipated the moment they stopped supporting her. Though no outward sign Atasimon¡¯s presence remained, Derzina could still feel the goddess through the connection they shared. Glad not to be left alone, even if the goddess was too occupied to pay her much attention, Derzina sat and waited.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Though she was doing little more than waiting while they were descending, sitting still like this changed her perception. Absent a sense of movement, it felt as the crack in which she was perched was the entire world.

    How long had it been since she¡¯d seen the suns? Hours? Days? Within the endless dark, time lost all meaning. Would they ever see another living thing again? Or had

    Venestamino lured them into this abyss that they might never return to bother him again?

    After brooding on her doubts for a few moments, Derzina decided it didn¡¯t matter. If this was a trap, then they were already well within its clutches. Perhaps this was a fitting end for her, consigned to oblivion along with everyone she¡¯d ever known. There was a certain appeal to giving up like that, but to Derzina¡¯s surprise she found she still had hope that they might accomplish something.

    Amidst her dark musings, strangely Derzina found remembering her dream brought her a measure of comfort. She remembered enough to know it had been far from pleasant, yet it reassured her that there was something down here beyond rock and darkness.

    ¡°I¡¯ve found something,¡± Atasimon said, cutting through Derzina¡¯s thoughts and bringing her back to reality. ¡°I don¡¯t know if it will be of any use to us, but I located a particularly dense concentration of magic. It¡¯s far beyond that of the surrounding area, so I assume it must have some significance.¡±

    ¡°Was that all you could find?¡± It didn¡¯t sound too promising.

    ¡°Indeed, and I was fortunate to sense that much. You have no concept of how difficult it is to detect anything through the maelstrom of energy around us.¡±

    ¡°I suppose that¡¯s our best option then. If what you said is true, then there must be something of note about it.¡±

    ¡°One can only hope,¡± Atasimon said, leaving the recess and setting off once more. ¡°At least we have some kind of destination now, I was beginning to tire of trying to reach the bottom of this seemingly bottomless hole.¡±

    ¡°As am I, I think this place is already affecting my mind. It never occurred to me that I would long for something so mundane as the light of the suns and the stars. Yet after spending all this time beyond their reach, seeing them again is now one of my greatest wishes.¡±

    ¡°It did not occur to me that you might feel so discomforted down here,¡± Atasimon said, perplexed. ¡°I had forgotten that mortals are not as at home in the dark as I am. Well, fear not, we shall see the surface again in good time.¡±

    Having a goal seemed to spur Atasimon on, and they sped through the rocky maze. Derzina lapsed back into quiet contemplation, marvelling at the goddess¡¯ ability to navigate in this lightless place. Judging from how often Atasimon changed direction, Derzina doubted she¡¯d be able to find her way through even if they were on level ground beneath the midday suns.

    ¡°We¡¯re getting close,¡± Atasimon said, after a while. ¡°Can you feel it?¡±

    It was subtle enough that Derzina hadn¡¯t noticed it at first, but the air was warmer here and she had a vague sense of rising agitation. She would never normally have attributed the latter to a location, were it not for dream she¡¯d seen under the great rift¡¯s influence.

    ¡°To my surprise, I can. There must an enormous amount of magic present if even I can feel it.¡± She hadn¡¯t been able to sense anything in the presence of gods or Demon Lords.

    ¡°There is, though there¡¯s more to it than mere power. Now that I¡¯m near enough to discern more of its nature, I¡¯m certain that the magic is contained within a living being of some sort.¡±

    ¡°Like a person?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°I doubt it, though I¡¯ve yet to determine its precise nature. It appears that will have to wait until we encounter it for ourselves. I suggest you brace yourself; we¡¯ll be there in moments.¡±

    The wind rushed past her as Derzina¡¯s body was propelled forwards. Turning a corner, Atasimon¡¯s shadows splayed wide and pulled Derzina to a halt. A gate, rendered barely visible by a faint red glow, stood before them. Set into the surrounding stone, it depicted an eyeless face with a wide yawning mouth.

    The stone face shifted before her eyes, slowly changing its expression. Teeth appeared in the formerly empty mouth and were promptly bared at her. Once the change was complete, the gate fell motionless and a booming voice emanated from it. ¡°Identify yourself, outsider,¡± it said.

    ¡°I am Derzina Omun, Paladin of Ortesia,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°And why does a Paladin seek entrance to the great city of Merstaneon? Have you come seeking demons to slay?¡±

    ¡°No, I seek to learn more of the Demon Lord Meztraxia. Do you know him?¡±

    ¡°He visited the city some time ago.¡±

    ¡°Is that it? What did he do here?¡±

    ¡°I am but a guardian, I know little of what goes on within the city. If you wish to know more, you would have to ask one of Mestaneon¡¯s denizens.¡±

    ¡°Very well, I would like to ask them about it. Will you let me pass?¡±

    ¡°I will not. Only those who bear the mark of Mortisflor may enter.¡±

    ¡°And how does one acquire this mark?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°All those who find their way here fall under her sway. All except for you, it would seem. What makes you so special, I wonder?¡±

    Having no good answers to offer the gate nor any ideas of how to convince it to let her pass, Derzina looked inward. ¡°Have you ever heard of Mortisflor?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Never,¡± Atasimon replied. ¡°I assume they must be some manner of demon, or possibly a wizard. I find it rather hard to believe that there¡¯s a whole city down here, it would be best to treat anything you hear from whatever creatures call this place their home with suspicion.¡±

    ¡°Even if it¡¯s not a city, there must be something behind this enchanted gate. Whatever lays beyond, it¡¯s our best chance of finding out how Meztraxia acquired his power.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m well aware of that. But no matter how great our need, I doubt this guardian has any interest in our plight. If we need the mark of this Mortisflor to get in, then ask to meet with them. It seems the most direct option, barring trying to force our way in. Which I¡¯d rather avoid, unless we have no other option.¡±

    Heeding the goddess¡¯ advice, Derzina returned her attention to the outside world and said, ¡°May I speak with this Mortisflor, that I might ask for their permission?¡±

    ¡°Are you certain?¡± The gate asked, its frozen features continuing to scowl at her. ¡°Mortisflor can be most inquisitive of new arrivals that catch her attention¡±

    ¡°I am.¡±

    ¡°Then she shall see you presently.¡±

    A blinding flash of red light burst forth from gate¡¯s empty sockets. Once Derzina¡¯s vision recovered, she found herself somewhere else entirely.

 17 - City of the Mad God

    Gone were the walls of sharp rock and the dimly lit gate, replaced by a high-ceilinged chamber of polished wood with a floor of smooth yet firm red carpet. But a few steps before Derzina sat a tall woman upon a delicately wrought disc of gold suspended in the air. Her maroon gown was marked by a haphazard collection of slits, exposing far more of her alabaster skin than Derzina thought tasteful or proper.

    Yet far stranger still were the crimson patterns that moved across the woman¡¯s body, changing as they went, and her eyes of pure red. It seemed unlikely that she could even see, yet the woman¡¯s gaze roved across Derzina¡¯s body as if taking in every detail. Derzina stood, rooted in bewilderment, until the woman ceased her inspection and locked eyes.

    ¡°The gate told me of your coming,¡± she said, her voice breathy yet devoid of emotion, ¡°but I did not expect you to be so wonderous. Greeting our occasional new arrivals is delightful enough as it is and you are of a far higher grade than most.¡±

    Smiling vacantly, she gestured toward another golden disc that floated over to Derzina.

    ¡°Sit,¡± she commanded.

    ¡°I apologise for my rudeness,¡± Derzina said, sitting down and finding that her seat did not shift in the slightest beneath her weight, ¡°but are you Mortisflor?¡±

    ¡°Of course I am,¡± Mortisflor snapped, irritation flaring before vanishing beneath the same empty smile as before. ¡°And now that we¡¯ve been introduced, I¡¯d like to speak with your companion. Atasimon, I believe?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Atasimon said, sitting up a little straighter as she took over. ¡°Did you want something from me?¡±

    ¡°Is that really you in there?¡± Mortisflor asked, chuckling as she looked over Derzina once more. ¡°You¡¯ve certainly fallen on hard times.¡±

    ¡°Strange, you act as if we know each other yet I¡¯m certain we have never met.¡±

    ¡°Oh, but we have. We fought against the Demon King together, I was the one who slew him. Don¡¯t you remember?¡±

    ¡°I remember the battle¡¯s end with perfect clarity. I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re playing at, but you were not present at the battle nor did you slay the Demon King. It was Koristena who struck the final blow, I saw it myself.¡±

    ¡°Ah yes, Koristena, it¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve heard that name. I¡¯d half-forgotten it, but that is what I was once called.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be absurd, Koristena died with the Demon King.¡±

    ¡°I can see why you might think that,¡± Mortisflor said, her long gown pooling on the ground as she stood up. ¡°I thought it myself for a long time, but I came back.¡±

    She tilted a hand toward her chest dramatically and continued, ¡°I know you must hardly recognise me; I hardly recognise myself sometimes, but I am the same god you fought beside all those years ago.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s so, then you must be able to prove it.¡±

    ¡°You still doubt me?¡± Mortisflor asked, eye twitching.

    ¡°I do, as would anyone else. What business would a god possibly have living in a place like this? Only a lunatic would live here by their own choice.¡±

    Mortisflor threw back her head and laughed, then snapped her teeth together. ¡°You¡¯re not far off the mark there. And fine, if you demand proof then I shall take it upon myself to enlighten you.¡±

    Raising her hand, Mortisflor plunged it straight into her own chest. Blood ran down her body as she pulled her flesh and bone aside to expose the spearhead embedded within her. Enveloped in dark flame, its scintillating metal shone with a multi-coloured hue under the light amidst Mortisflor¡¯s organs.

    ¡°He left me with a little souvenir after our last meeting,¡± Mortisflor said. ¡°I trust this serves as sufficient proof. I doubt his spear is part of anyone else you¡¯ve met. Though on the off chance that you have, be sure to send them to me. I¡¯d love to get properly acquainted with such a rare individual.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Atasimon said, swallowing. ¡°Well, you weren¡¯t wrong, this has certainly been enlightening. I suppose you may indeed be Koristena. How did you survive?¡±

    ¡°After I came back, I used to ask myself that same question all the time. How? Why? But you know what I eventually learned? That it didn¡¯t matter. It matters only I am here now in all my glory.¡±

    ¡°You do seem to have made a home for yourself,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°But I didn¡¯t come here to talk about you. I understand that Meztraxia visited your city, do you know him?¡±Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    ¡°The Demon Lord? Yes, I remember him well. Why do you ask? I take it you¡¯ve had the pleasure of meeting him?¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t put it like that, but yes, I encountered him recently. During that encounter, he displayed the power to negate my magic. Do you have any idea how he gained such a power? Or if there¡¯s a way to negate it?¡±

    ¡°Of course I know how he got it,¡± Mortisflor said, with a knowing smile as she fluttered her eyelashes, ¡°I was the one who led him to it in the first place. Though that¡¯s probably not how he tells it, the ungrateful bastard.¡±

    ¡°You led him to it?¡± Atasimon asked, in disbelief. ¡°I thought you seemed strange, but I didn¡¯t realize you¡¯d go so far as to align yourself with our enemies.¡±

    ¡°Our enemies?¡± Mortisflor¡¯s eyebrows shot up and she laughed. ¡°You clearly haven¡¯t been paying attention; we have little in common now. Nor are we on the same side. I¡¯m on my own side, and whatever enemies I may have are of my own choosing.¡±

    ¡°So that¡¯s it then,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°you¡¯ve turned your back on us. I don¡¯t know what madness has taken hold of you, but how can even your deranged mind justify aiding our mortal foes? Have you forgotten all the suffering they have brought upon us and those we protect?¡±

    ¡°I have forgotten nothing,¡± Mortisflor spat. ¡°And I refuse to be lectured by someone of your limited understanding. Normally I would smite someone for speaking to me so within my own realm, but as we have a shared history and you are so recently arrived, I will spare you. I suggest you watch your tongue more closely from now on, if you wish to keep it.¡±

    She gestured dismissively toward Atasimon and continued, ¡°Now begone. Experience what my city has to offer and perhaps you will come to understand my point of view.¡±

    Before Atasimon could respond, their surroundings changed once more and Mortisflor¡¯s chamber was replaced by a narrow street that terminated in a slender door of gold.  The squat buildings around them were lit by a combination of a dull red glow that surrounded the stone and swirling orange lights caged within small glass enclosures. Though they were free of Mortisflor and there wasn¡¯t a drop of it in sight, all Derzina could smell was blood.

    ¡°That was far from the reunion I would have hoped for,¡± Atasimon said internally, giving control back to Derzina.

    ¡°Indeed, I didn¡¯t realize gods could be so¡­¡± Derzina trailed off, trying to think of how to phrase it politely.

    ¡°Mad. She was completely mad. I think we¡¯d have had more success trying to reason with Meztraxia. I can¡¯t imagine what kind of terrible place her city might be.¡±

    Derzina looked around, the stone around her was rough and covered in a layer of grime coupled with the stench of rot

    ¡°Though it¡¯s not pleasant,¡± she said, ¡°it¡¯s still better than most of what we passed through to get here.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps the city itself is somewhat hospitable,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°but I¡¯m far more concerned with its inhabitants than I am with its architecture. They are likely as unhinged as the one who rules them, if not more so. I suggest you exercise all possible caution in your dealings with them.¡±

    ¡°The gate we spoke with earlier wasn¡¯t so bad, maybe they¡¯re all like that.¡±

    ¡°That would be quite a stroke of fortune, particularly considering our recent run of luck.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Derzina said, moving to exit the seemingly deserted street, ¡°regardless of what they¡¯re like, it doesn¡¯t appear we¡¯re going to get anywhere without encountering those who dwell here.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, just don¡¯t expect them to have anything to offer beyond whatever madness their god has seen fit to inflict upon them.¡±

    Derzina would have liked to refute the goddess¡¯ prediction, if only she held any hope of encountering another reasonable being down here. After all, why would anyone in their right mind live here? A city far below the surface, steeped in foul magic and ruled by a mad god seemed a terribly unlikely place to find someone willing to aid their cause.

    Leaving the dull, grimy buildings behind, Derzina discovered that Merstaneon¡¯s residents did at least possess some regard for beauty. Meagre as their homes were compared to those of the city Derzina had lost, their exteriors were clean and painted in a variety of hues. Even if most of them were inevitably red.

    But their appearance only caught her eye for a moment, as it was of little significance relative to the presence of the building¡¯s occupants. Two men were engaged in heated conversation in a doorway, both wearing bright colours with equally vibrant colours painted on their skin.

    Outlandish as their dress was, it barely registered to Derzina in light of one of them being a demon. Sighting her as she emerged from the street, they ceased their discussion and turned to Derzina.

    ¡°Have you just come from the palace?¡± the human asked, both of them looking at her in disbelief.

    ¡°I was briefly a guest of Mortisflor,¡± Derzina said, ¡°if that¡¯s what you mean.¡±

    ¡°And you¡¯re still in possession of all your limbs?¡± the demon asked, despite it clearly being the case.

    ¡°Yes, as far as I know. Does that come as such a surprise?¡±

    Derzina found it difficult to muster much hatred toward the demon what with the strangeness of her encounter with Mortisflor and the bizarre nature of this city.

    ¡°Of course,¡± the human said, ¡°you¡¯re the only person who¡¯s ever left the palace unscathed. But I can see you must be new here. You should join us; we¡¯re headed to the Royal Gala.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate the offer, though I¡¯m not sure I¡¯m dressed for such an event,¡± Derzina said, looking down at her battered formerly-white robes.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be fine,¡± the demon said. ¡°No one will care what you¡¯re wearing once we tell them your story. Speaking of which, how did you ever end up in the palace?¡±

    ¡°I was talking to the gate, and it sent me to see Mortisflor.¡±

    ¡°The gate?¡± the human asked. ¡°How did you get there?¡±

    ¡°I was climbing into the Great Rift and I found it.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯re from beyond the rift?¡± the demon exclaimed. ¡°You absolutely must come with us; we want to hear all about you.¡±

    Though Derzia felt a certain sense of trepidation at attending an unknown event in such a mad place, she could see little reason to refuse. They still needed to gather information and Mortisflor had told them to experience her city; whatever this gala was, it seemed a prime opportunity to do both.

    ¡°Very well, I¡¯ll join you. You said it was a royal gala? I didn¡¯t realise your city had royalty.¡±

    ¡°Oh, it doesn¡¯t,¡± the human said, ¡°at least not right now; that¡¯s what the gala is for. I¡¯m sure it must seem confusing, but it will all make sense once we get there.¡±

    Looking into the welcoming eyes of her hosts, Derzina took a deep breath and said, ¡°Then lead the way.¡±

 18 - Reinforcements

    ¡°Surely you can¡¯t mean to advance with so few men,¡± Lord Nostlinum said, between bites of meat. Blood from the raw flesh trickled out of the corner of his mouth. ¡°Do you truly mean to risk losing everything just for the sake of haste?¡±

    Meztraxia had opted to receive him alone, but for their attendants. His underlings didn¡¯t need to see them argue, nor did he think they had anything of value to contribute here. If he couldn¡¯t convince Lord Nostlinum himself, then there was no hope of it.

    ¡°I can and I do. It will not be easy, but our forces are sufficient for the task ahead and the reward is more than worth the risk.¡±

    ¡°Is it now?¡± Nostlinum asked, setting down his fork and steepling his fingers. The yellow skin of his hands was supple and unmarked, a curious sight in a Demon Lord. ¡°I hardly think the opportunity to put a few humans to the sword is worth losing our army over.¡±

    ¡°Our victory would be no small matter. None of the cities along the Arid Sea have ever been taken, destroying one of them would go a long way towards rallying men to our cause.¡±

    ¡°Toward satisfying your vanity, you mean. Do you really believe that to be worth courting disaster?¡±

    ¡°Courting disaster is an inevitability in war. If it were easy, I would hardly need so many soldiers.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s funny,¡± Nostlinum said, without a trace of humour, ¡°when you proposed this alliance to me, you made it all sound so easy. As if our victory was all but assured.¡±

    ¡°And it would have been, had you brought the thirty thousand we agreed upon. Instead I am forced to make do with far less.¡±

    Eyes cold, Nostlinum toyed with the silver ring on his index finger as he spoke. ¡°Lord Azuren demanded I send soldiers, you¡¯re lucky I came at all instead of answering our lord¡¯s call myself.¡±Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°He is no lord of mine; I serve only the Demon King.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes, you¡¯ve spoken at length on the favour our late king has bestowed upon you. Not all of us have the luxury of abandoning Lord Azuren on a whim.¡±

    ¡°Yet it appears you have no trouble straying from our agreement. It¡¯s interesting to me that you would choose to honour your commitment to him, and not to me. Do you hold him in such high regard?¡±

    ¡°Of course, he is the greatest among us. I would be a fool not to.¡±

    ¡°Great he may be,¡± Meztraxia said, ¡°but he is also very far away. And from what I¡¯ve heard, he appears to be rather occupied.¡±

    Overt threats would not serve for Nostlinum, his position was nearly equal with that of Meztraxia. Even if it forced his compliance for a short time, he¡¯d be certain to betray Meztraxia the first chance he got. However, reminding him of the danger certain courses posed could be most useful.

    ¡°He is occupied for now. But Lord Azuren never fails to repay his debts. Or to answer insults.¡±

    ¡°I respect that you would not want to incur his wrath, and that you have been forced, by circumstances outside your control, to divert a significant portion of your troops. But I cannot respect your lack of faith in my cause, why have you come at all if you are not willing to take a risk? One way or another the humans will be destroyed, don¡¯t you want a hand in it? It¡¯s a far grander goal than Lord Azuren¡¯s petty schemes.¡±

    ¡°Let us not mince words,¡± Nostlinum said, ¡°you and I both know I never had any faith in your cause. I came because of the rewards you offered me, and if I stand to lose more than I gain by assisting you, then it makes for a rather unappealing prospect.¡±

    Meztraxia wished to berate him and brand him a coward, but he supressed the impulse; it would bring no benefit to his cause. Instead, he tried a different tact. ¡°Unappealing as it may be, it is quickly becoming the only course open to you if you wish a stake in this. If I cannot produce additional results soon, likely my army will melt away before too long and you will have gained nothing at all in exchange for displeasing Lord Azuren. And to my understanding, it would be during a time in which he very much does not wish to be displeased.¡±

    Meztraxia raised his hand to silence Nostlinum¡¯s reply, he still had more words to add to box be was building around his fellow Demon Lord. ¡°While it¡¯s true that your commitment of troops will deflect the worst of his ire, you would be a fool to think that you will reap any of the benefits. They shall all go to his loyal supporters that offered him everything they had without restraint or condition. The time for playing both sides has ended, you must make your choice now.¡±

 19 - The Choosing

    Following her hosts at what she judged to be a safe distance, Derzina walked through the downward sloping streets. After a long walk, they reached a large cavity within the earth filled almost entirely by an expansive tent of red fabric. There was no one else in sight, though a continuous burble of voices came from within the tent.

    ¡°Just follow our lead,¡± the human said, looking over his shoulder with a confident grin.

    ¡°I shall try,¡± Derzina said.

    The demon pulled the tent flap aside, exposing the garishly dressed crowd within. They were clustered around a wide ring of gold, atop which perched a figure shrouded from head-to-toe in red.

    ¡°Is that the last of them?¡± the figure asked of no one in particular.

    The crowd looked at the new arrivals, and a woman near the middle said, ¡°That¡¯s everyone, high priest.¡±

    ¡°Then let us begin the royal selection,¡± the high priest shouted, rising to her feet and towering above the crowd atop her platform. ¡°To your positions, my beloved worthies.¡±

    Everyone gathered around the ring and Derzina followed, mirroring them as they clutched handholds carved into it.

    ¡°Come now you children of Mortisflor,¡± sung the high priest, her voice sonorous and clear. ¡°Let us dance our deepest devotion, that we might win her love evermore and drown within that splendid emotion.¡±

    Still holding onto the ring, the crowd walked a slow circle as they sung their reply. ¡°The new world¡¯s glorious mother, by her power was it all remade.¡±

    Spinning the ring along with the others, Derzina tried to keep in step as she wondered what they were doing.

    ¡°She slew the Demon King, no other,¡± continued the crowd, ¡°on the edge of her great golden blade.¡±

    ¡°Only through her can be we eternal,¡± the high priest sung, gesticulating wildly atop her perch, ¡°and transcend our meagre existence. That we might know true love maternal, we must shed all worldly resistance.¡±

    The tempo steadily sped up, as did the spinning of the golden ring.

    ¡°Thus do we play the great royal game,¡± sung the crowd, ¡°to honour her setting the world straight. For which she deserves the greatest fame, yet none know her beyond the red gate.¡±

    ¡°Faster!¡± the high priest shouted again and again, until those beneath her ran with reckless speed.

    As they ran, the ring opened up and a long blade extended upward. Before Derzina could react, the blade speared down and impaled the man a few places ahead of her right through the chest. She cried out in surprise as the group came to a stumbling halt.

    As the ring slowed, the blade retracted and the man fell to the floor twitching. Other than Derzina, no one seemed to pay him the slightest mind. Instead, they focused all their attention on the high priest up on her perch.

    ¡°You,¡± she said, pointing to a demon woman, ¡°take this husk outside. When you return, we shall begin the choosing once more.¡±

    As the demon dragged the heavily bleeding man away, the high priest addressed the others. ¡°What luck, now you all have another opportunity to be chosen.¡±

    The crowd let out a half-hearted cheer, appearing more bored than anything. Had they not just witnessed a man die? Did they not realise that any of them could have died in his place? Shaking off her initial disbelief, Derzina realized they were well aware of all of that; they simply didn¡¯t care.

    She knew madness could take several forms, but she hadn¡¯t thought to encounter beings with such disregard for their lives and the lives of others.

    ¡°Is Mortisflor responsible for this?¡± Derzina asked, speaking inward. ¡°Is her power blinding them to what¡¯s happening?¡±

    ¡°If she is,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°then I cannot sense it. As far as I can perceive, there is no trace of her magic upon them. The ring and the priest are both steeped in her magic, but they don¡¯t appear to influencing the others.¡±

    ¡°Then they¡¯re taking part in this appalling charade of their own free will?¡±

    If this was the nature of the city Mortisflor had told them to experience, then Derzina wanted no part in it. Much as she hated the demons of the surface, she¡¯d have preferred their company over the gang of lunatics around her.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    ¡°It appears so,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°though I struggle to fathom it.¡±

    The demons she knew were certainly evil, but at least she could comprehend some portion of their intent. They killed for conquest or vengeance; even killing for sport she understood more than spectacle before her. Here death seemed to happen for no reason and was of no concern to those involved.

    Much as Derzina wished to leave, it was simply not an option. She doubted they could get out without Mortisflor¡¯s approval and they still needed to find out how Meztraxia had acquired his power. If they left now, they would have accomplished nothing.

    ¡°Do you understand what has just occurred here?¡± Derzina asked aloud.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Atasimon demanded, within her head.

    ¡°If we must stay here, then I must try to stop to this,¡± Derzina replied in kind.

    The high priest looked down at Derzina, expression concealed behind their enveloping robes.

    ¡°There has been a minor delay in the proceedings,¡± the priest said, ¡°but resumption is imminent.¡±

    ¡°A man died here,¡± Derzina said. ¡°Killed by us spinning this absurd ring around, and for what purpose?¡±

    ¡°For the grandest purpose of all; winning the favour of Mortisflor. Though fortune was not with him today and now he is nothing.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s still a person, even in death.¡±

    The demon assigned to remove the corpse returned, and the high priest motioned for them to wait.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know where you hail from stranger,¡± the priest said, ¡°but I have never met a person with a blade through the heart. A person who cannot talk or walk is no person at all.¡±

    She laughed and the crowd laughed with her, as if on cue.

    ¡°Even if he¡¯s dead,¡± Derzina said, ¡°he should still be treated with respect.¡±

    ¡°Respect?¡± the high priest asked, sounding as if she thought the idea wholly absurd. ¡°He was not worthy of respect when he was alive, let alone now that he¡¯s dead. None of us are. The dead are nothing, and the living only slightly more.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous. How can people be nothing in your eyes? What would even be the point in living if that were the case?¡±

    ¡°To win Mortisflor¡¯s favour, of course. That she might uplift us and bestow meaning upon our sorry existence. Even her high priests are devoid of value without the favour she bestows upon them.¡±

    The high priest concluded by shaking her head and asking, ¡°Were you not listening to the song?¡±

    ¡°I heard it, but it did nothing to explain or justify this behaviour.¡±

    ¡°No? Then understanding will come sooner or later, as it does for all who find their way to Merstaneon. Or perhaps you¡¯ll die before then, it makes no difference.¡±

    She turned away from Derzina and addressed the rest of the crowd. ¡°I have tarried long enough with this fool, let us resume!¡±

    Stunned by the sheer force of their conviction, Derzina moved out of the way. If they were intent on this mad ritual, she had no desire to be caught up in it. Yet she remained within the tent and did not avert her eyes as the ring began to spin once more. As much as their ritual horrified her, she couldn¡¯t turn away.

    ¡°Now then,¡± the high priest said, ¡°let¡¯s pick up where we left off.¡±

    As the crowd spun the ring once more, she resumed her song. ¡°Bare all of that which makes her distraught, that she might burn away all our sin. So her will might be our only thought, that she might share that most wondrous grin.¡±

    The crowd wasted no time in getting the ring up to speed this time and before they could continue the song, the blade extended once more and put a hole through the head of the demon who¡¯d brought Derzina here.

    A collective groan rose from the survivors and they were already dispersing when the high priest shouted, ¡°A prince has been chosen!¡±

    She climbed down and inspected the facedown body. ¡°That is a man, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Yes, high priest,¡± the demon¡¯s companion said, ¡°his name was Loztet.¡±

    ¡°Then he is now Prince Loztet of Merstaneon, carry him and we shall proceed to the next choosing.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s still more to this?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re still here,¡± the high priest said. ¡°There is one final choosing beyond this, that we might have a new king.¡±

    Derzina glanced at the corpse. ¡°Then this dead man might be chosen as the king? What¡¯s the point? You already said the dead have no value.¡±

    ¡°Ah, but he is not simply dead. He has been chosen by Mortisflor herself.¡±

    ¡°Has he?¡± Derzina asked, the demon looked like nothing more than a corpse to her. ¡°He looks just as dead as the first one soon will be.¡±

    ¡°Of course he¡¯s dead, it wouldn¡¯t be much of a choosing otherwise. Only those willing to give up their lives could possibly be worthy of Mortisflor¡¯s favour.¡±

    ¡°Then why does he need to go through this second choosing if he¡¯s already worthy?¡±

    ¡°Because he needs to be doubly worthy to be king. Now, enough questions. I have more important things to do than listen to you blather on with this nonsense.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Derzina said, ¡°then let¡¯s proceed to the final choosing.¡±

    She could understand the high priest¡¯s irritation, Derzina was getting awfully sick of talking to them herself. It seemed unlikely this next event would make any more sense, but at least she would be able to see this through to the end. If all the other candidates were dead, then it would make for a more pleasant spectacle than the one she¡¯d just witnessed.

    ¡°You may attend,¡± the high priest said, ¡°if you must. We¡¯ll likely have plenty of room if the other choosings went anything like this one.¡±

    The tent was empty but for the high priest, Derzina and her two hosts. It seemed the citizens of Merstaneon had lost interest in the proceedings now that someone had been chosen. Derzina more or less understood that, but she still had no idea why anyone would want to be chosen in the first place.

    Though Derzina was no stranger to devotion, the manner in which Mortisflor¡¯s followers expressed their faith was utterly alien to her. Was Mortisflor so fond of death that that she demanded it of her followers simply for her own entertainment?

    If so, then she was even more monstrous than Derzina had thought. Contrary to all the evidence she¡¯d witnessed thus far, part of Derzina still believed that there was a reason for all this beyond mad hedonism. How else could this city have survived? Surely no god be so heedless. Mortisflor had once been a peer of Atasimon and Ortesia, some semblance of her former divinity must remain within her. Or so Derzina hoped.

 20 - The Kings River

    Derzina followed the high priest deeper beneath the surface, passing buildings and down stairways carved into the stone. The sound of rushing water echoed through the tunnels around them, growing louder the further they went. Along with the sound, the ever-present coppery tang of blood that tainted the air grew stronger. Derzina had almost gotten used to the smell, but now she was forced to safeguard her nose within her robe to avoid gagging.

    ¡°Where does this second choosing take place?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°At the King¡¯s River,¡± the high priest said.

    ¡°Why a river?¡± It seemed to have little in common with the tent where they¡¯d held the first stage of this bizarre rite.

    ¡°Because it is the King¡¯s River that both grants Mortisflor her great power and spreads her influence. It is the bringer of all life within Merstaneon. If Mortisflor is our mother, then the river is our father.¡±

    ¡°Were you all truly born from Mortisflor?¡± Derzina asked.

    She¡¯d never heard of gods giving birth to humans, let alone demons. Though up to this point, her previous experience with the world had done little to prepare her for Merstaneon.

    ¡°No, of course not,¡± the high priest said, sound exasperated. ¡°I was merely speaking figuratively. How would we be born from the union between a river and a god? Do you even listen to yourself?¡±

    ¡°Forget I asked.¡± Derzina felt a fool for even trying to converse with the madwoman.

    ¡°What, did you think Mortisflor would waste her time giving birth to worthless creatures like us?¡± the priest asked, ignoring Derzina¡¯s words. ¡°If we had truly been born from her, then we wouldn¡¯t be such a sorry mess now, would we?¡±

    ¡°Right, and I apologise; it was an ill-considered question.¡±

    ¡°That seems to be all you have to offer,¡± the high priest said, her voice dripping scorn. ¡°Why did you even come to Mesataneon? Was it simply for the sake for annoying Mortisflor¡¯s children? And that¡¯s children in the figurative sense, by the way.¡±

    ¡°I came here with no such intentions; I didn¡¯t even know your people existed until I ran into them by chance. I¡¯m seeking the source of Meztraxia¡¯s power. He¡¯s a Demon Lord on the surface who destroyed my city.¡±

    ¡°Destroyed? However did your god allow that to happen?¡±

    ¡°Meztraxia is able to negate magic, even that of a god. Hence why I have gone so far as to travel here that I might discover how he acquired this ability.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure what led you to believe you might find any answers here,¡± the high priest said, ¡°but you¡¯ll find no shortage of magic here.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯ve never heard of Meztraxia?¡±

    ¡°Never.¡±

    Derzina was disappointed, but she hadn¡¯t expected to learn much from the high priest or any of the city¡¯s other inhabitants. It was becoming increasingly clear that they had little to offer anyone, and that only Mortisflor had the answers she sought.

    She felt no closer to earning another audience with Mortisflor, but the choosing seemed like the best opportunity Derzina was likely to get. Even if the goddess herself didn¡¯t attend, presumably she or those in her favour would be watching.

    As they continued their approach, the noise of the river reached the point where conversation was all but impossible. If they were planning on singing during this part of the choosing, the location seemed ill-considered though she¡¯d expect no less of Mortisflor¡¯s demented children.

    Derzina left the wide streets that had brought her most of the way here and entered a sprawling cavern, the limits of which extended beyond what she could see through the bright light that surrounded them. The cavern was split in two by a wide chasm, filled with a raging river of glowing red liquid.

    ¡°Is that blood?¡± Derzina asked. It certainly looked and smelt like it, but that made no sense.

    ¡°It¡¯s blood, or something close to it.¡± Atasimon said, the only one able to hear her.

    ¡°How could there possibly be this much blood? Let alone in the form of a river.¡±

    ¡°I suspect it was originally water that has since been ensorcelled.¡±

    ¡°Why would someone possibly want to do that?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t the faintest idea, I suspect it must be unintentional. Perhaps the accumulated power within the Great Rift is leaking into the river.¡±

    ¡°There must be a considerable concentration of magic here then, would this be a good place to plant the seed we were given?¡±

    ¡°If you wish,¡± Atasimon said, disinterested. ¡°I mislike the idea of letting anything grow in this place, but if you insist on following through then this seems as good a place as any.¡±

    While everyone was distracted by the ceremony taking place, Derzina took the seed from her pocket and tucked into a rack in the wall near the river. Here it would have access to water and magic in abundance though hopefully what she¡¯d been told about it was accurate and it had no need for sunlight. After making sure it was secure and concealed, Derzina refocused on the matter at hand.

    On a cliff not far from where Derzine entered, stood four other figures cloaked in red, each with a corpse beside them. More priests, she assumed. A motley collection of demons and humans was assembled behind them, who watched the proceedings with the same apathy that the people here seemed to hold for most things.

    The high priest grabbed Loztet¡¯s body, while the human who¡¯d brought him this far drifted over toward the rest of the crowd. Preferring to keep her distance from the rite itself, Derzina went with him.

    A few of the high priest¡¯s fellows turned toward her and they seemed to hold a short conversation before returning to their positions. It appeared they were still waiting for something, and Derzina had little choice but to wait with them for the coming ritual.

    ¡°Do you think there¡¯s any point to us being here?¡± Derzina asked, within her own head. ¡°Will Mortisflor ever agree to help us?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t imagine she¡¯ll do it out of the goodness of her heart,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°but perhaps her fickle nature will work in our favour. Her followers don¡¯t seem capable of offering much in the way of interesting conversation, so that alone may prompt her to seek us out again.¡±Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!

    Mulling over the idea, Derzina decided it made for a rather dismal hope.

    ¡°Is there no other way we can convince her? She clearly cares nothing for our plight, but is there anything we could offer her?¡±

    ¡°What could we possibly offer her?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°All we have to offer is our service, and I doubt that would earn us any more consideration. She seems quite content with her city, what else could she want?¡±

    ¡°What do gods want in the first place?¡±

    ¡°I can hardly speak with confidence on the behalf of my fellows,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°particularly after having met Mortisflor, but I believe they want much the same as any living creature capable of reason. I believe their foremost desire to be safety for themselves and those under their protection, though that clearly doesn¡¯t apply to Mortisflor.¡±

    Derzina watched as another priest approached, while Atasimon continued her explanation. ¡°Each of us also wishes for glory; whether it be from battle, the veneration of our followers or from our great works. The choosing appears to be some twisted reflection of that desire for glory.¡±

    The newcomer reached the rest of their group with a corpse in tow, apparently the last of those they¡¯d been waiting for as the other priests dragged the bodies with them toward the cliff¡¯s edge. Derzina wondered if they were simply going to toss them into the river after all that waiting, but they left them just beside its banks.

    Free of the bodies they bore, the priests joined hands in a line of red cloth before the cliff. Derzina could just barely make out them singing something at the top of their lungs over the river¡¯s roar. They went on and on, until the fast-flowing river before them froze in place and silence prevailed.

    Derzina stared in wonder at the vast quantity of now motionless blood that lay within the chasm before her.

    ¡°Rise!¡± shouted the priests in unison.

    A great spout of crimson liquid surged upward from the river and hung motionless in the air. The red column towered high above all those gathered and Derzina flinched, feeling that it must surely fall at any moment. But whatever magic the priests commanded kept it steady as they continued their ritual.

    ¡°Come forth,¡± the priests chanted, ¡°herald of the King and choose the mortal who would rule in the stead of his fallen majesty.¡±

    The suspended pillar of red moved to the river¡¯s edge and from it stepped a hunched creature formed entirely of blood. It shuffled forward, sanguine fluid leaking from the gaping hole in its chest with every step.

    Without so much as lifting its head toward the priests, it contorted its body until it was just above one of the corpses. Its hand split off, moving independently of the main body as it pressed itself into what remained of the dead man¡¯s head.

    The body shuddered as the construct of blood disappeared within it, then it clambered to its feet as the priests rushed forward to assist it. Moving closer for a better look, Derzina saw that the man¡¯s eyes were pure red as were the formerly missing portions of his head. The king¡¯s herald repeated the process with another of the bodies, raising another man from the dead.

    ¡°Mortisflor,¡± the priests cried out, ¡°behold the new kings of Merstaneon.¡±

    With both its hands gone, the herald returned to the suspended column of blood from which it had sprung and they both sunk back into the river. The empty eyes of the kings it had created stared straight ahead, while the rest of their bodies grew redder by the moment.

    As the priests gathered around the kings they¡¯d helped create, there was a blinding flash of red light and Mortisflor herself appeared. She stepped out from nothingness and every one of her subjects threw themselves to the ground in abject supplication, leaving only Derzina still standing.

    ¡°Your representatives have been chosen,¡± Mortisflor said, raising her hands in triumph, ¡°and I shall deliver unto them their just reward. The rest of you worthless creatures, beings utterly below pity, shall have to wait until next the next choosing for an opportunity to elevate yourselves.¡±

    The kings shuffled over toward Mortisflor and she drew them into an almost tender embrace. Before whatever was happening could go any further, Derzina stepped forward.

    ¡°I think we¡¯ve seen enough of your city already,¡± she said. ¡°Are you willing to assist us or not?¡±

    Mortisflor scowled at her and seemed on the verge of a retort when her features softened. Still holding onto the kings, she said, ¡°I shall grant you another audience at the palace later, after I¡¯ve rested. Until then, you may enjoy what hospitality my city has to offer.¡±

    The words had scarcely left her lips before Mortisflor and the kings disappeared. In the wake of their goddess¡¯ departure, her followers got to their feet. They stared at where Mortisflor had stood, looking utterly bereft.

    ¡°Is that it?¡± Derzina asked aloud, of no one in particular. ¡°Do the rest of you not get anything out of this choosing?¡±

    ¡°We receive more than we deserve,¡± one of the priests said, the same one that had brought Derzina here by the sound of her voice, ¡°for we have glimpsed Mortisflor¡¯s divinity. Only those few that are chosen may receive additional blessing.¡±

    ¡°And none of you have a problem with that?¡±

    ¡°We would not dream of having the slightest issue with whatever Mortisflor decides to do. We are hers, heart and soul.¡±

    Though the high priest spoke with complete conviction, Derzina noted that no one else was so quick to the defence of their goddess. Then again, they may have just been too overwhelmed by her disappearance to manage it.

    Derzina was leaving in search of more amiable company, such as her own, when the high priest hurried over and cut across her path.

    ¡°Did the goddess truly invite you to her palace?¡± The high priest asked. ¡°Or do my ears deceive me?¡±

    ¡°No, you heard right.¡±

    Derzina kept walking and the high priest fell into step beside her.

    ¡°Why? Does she need something from you?¡±

    ¡°Not that I know of. It sounded like she¡¯s changed her mind and decided to help me in my search.¡±

    ¡°Help you?¡± the priest asked. ¡°Help an unbeliever from beyond our borders? What could she possibly see in you?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps she appreciates my lack of blind faith.¡±

    The high priest fell back a few steps before catching up. ¡°That surely can¡¯t be true. Why would she ever want someone to be unfaithful?¡±

    ¡°She may very well find it more interesting; I imagine the company of her followers gets boring rather quickly. Though all I can say for sure is that my own interest in the subject is rapidly waning.¡±

    They left the river behind, the flow of which was slowly returning to normal. Derzina didn¡¯t much see the point in trying to divine the will of a being as unstable as Mortisflor, but the high priest seemed very interested in the subject as far as it concerned the goddess¡¯ intentions toward Derzina.

    ¡°Perhaps she wishes simply to guide you along the path of faith. That seems far more likely. Worthless as we may be, why would she ever value an outsider over her own children?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d probably know far more about it than I do, I don¡¯t claim to understand Mortisflor in the slightest. Nor do I particularly wish to discuss it.¡±

    ¡°What did you say you came here for again?¡± the high priest asked, seemingly taking no notice of Derzina¡¯s words.

    ¡°I¡¯m trying to understand how a Demon Lord gained the power to negate magic.¡±

    ¡°And Mortisflor knew this Demon Lord?¡±

    ¡°It seems that way, though I know nothing of their relationship. She didn¡¯t seem to have any hatred for him at least, despite him being a demon.¡±

    ¡°What does that matter?¡±

    ¡°Though it appears to have little bearing on her current state,¡± Derzina said, ¡°Mortisflor was once the sworn enemy of demons. She used to protect humans from them, as the other gods still do.¡±

    ¡°Why would you need to be protected from demons? We¡¯re much the same as your people.¡±

    ¡°Only in this foul place, where you¡¯ve all been rendered witless servants of a corrupted god. In the outside world, demons are the vile creatures responsible for most of the world¡¯s woes.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s statement sounded a little dramatic even to her own ears, but she stood by it. After all, they were the ones who¡¯d invaded the human world and been the cause of the two worlds being so disastrously combined.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know little of life beyond Merstaneon, but from what you¡¯ve said it seems all the stranger that anyone would choose to live out there. How could anyone prefer such a life when instead they could be one of Mortisflor¡¯s children; living among their equals without a glimmer of hate.¡±

    ¡°And do you take joy in your life here?¡± Derzina asked, growing tired of the priest¡¯s endless dogma.

    ¡°Joy? Of course not. We are not worthy of joy, only Mortisflor and her chosen deserve such things.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you one of her chosen? I thought you were a high priest of Mortisflor.¡±

    ¡°Though I am one of her high priests,¡± the priest said, ¡°it grants me no special privilege, beyond that of being allowed to serve her more directly than her other children.¡±

    ¡°Is serving her enough for you? It does not sound like much of a reward at all.¡±

    ¡°Of course not. I always strive to seek further favour.¡±

    ¡°And how has that been working out for you?¡±

    From what Derzina had seen, Mortisflor seemed utterly indifferent to her servants.

    ¡°Thus far I have found only abject failure, and likely that is all I shall ever know. As befits one so devoid of worth as myself.¡±

    Seeing that the high priest wasn¡¯t going to change her mind in the slightest, Derzina just kept walking. She felt foolish for thinking there might be anything to gain from engaging with the priest.

 21 - Servants of the Gods

    ¡°You¡¯re a very strange creature,¡± the high priest said, her face shrouded by her red robes as she continued to follow Derzina.

    ¡°And how¡¯s that exactly?¡± Derzina asked, genuinely curious. There was no doubt in her mind as to which of them was the strange one and if the priest had the slightest understanding of herself, she should be able to see that. Unfortunately, she clearly couldn¡¯t or she wouldn¡¯t have said it.

    ¡°You don¡¯t live to please any god; you¡¯re just a lost soul wandering on your own. I don¡¯t know how one could possibly endure an existence so bereft of meaning.¡±

    With no destination in mind, Derzina continued down the street while she mused upon her past. ¡°I did once, in a way. I once served a god as you do, though my service took a different form and my god was nothing like yours. She was kind and just, not a mad creature incapable of compassion like the abomination who rules this city.¡±

    ¡°Incapable of compassion? Why ever would you think such a thing? Mortisflor is the most loving creature imaginable.¡±

    ¡°Is that right?¡± Derzina asked, faintly amused at high priest¡¯s ridiculous ardour. ¡°She doesn¡¯t seem to have much love or compassion for you or her other children.¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± the priest said, without the slightest hesitation or concern. ¡°We are worthless. Only a fool would concern themselves with us.¡±

    Mad as the priest clearly was, Derzina felt a little sorry for her. Even such a twisted creature didn¡¯t deserve this pitiful existence. Their beliefs, and whatever influence the Great Rift exerted over them, cursed them with a more wretched fate than even the beasts who dwelt on the surface. At least they were free, twisted by corruption as they were.

    ¡°Then what about her is loving?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°What is it she loves, if not her so called children?¡±

    ¡°Her kings of course, and the one true king they represent. They are the only beings worth of both her love and hate, the rest of us are beneath her notice.¡±

    ¡°How can she both love and hate them?¡± It seemed quite the contradiction.

    ¡°I could not possibly speak to her reasons, that is simply the way things are. Do you also occupy yourself wondering why water flows or light illuminates? Some things are beyond mortal comprehension, I should think a servant of the gods would know that.¡±

    While there were certainly aspects of the world that gods understood and mortals never would, Derzina didn¡¯t think feelings were among them. Ortesia and Atasimon¡¯s feelings and the reasons behind them seemed plain enough to her. Or at least, as plain as those of a mortal. Though she could see how such things could be far more difficult to understand when it came to Mortisflor, given the goddess¡¯ madness.

    ¡°As far as I¡¯m concerned, Mortisflor ceased to be a true god a long time ago.¡± If Mortisflor¡¯s recollection was accurate, more than a century had passed since her transformation. ¡°She bears little resemblance to any I have met or heard of in all my years.¡±

    ¡°Mortisflor is the truest god there has ever been and ever can be,¡± the priest declared hotly. ¡°You blaspheme against her at your own peril.¡±

    ¡°Do I? Would you truly harm a guest your god invited into her city? Or are you implying she will strike me down herself?¡± While incurring Mortisflor¡¯s wrath would hardly be surprising, Derzina doubted it would be from anything so straightforward as speaking ill of her to one of her followers. She was unlikely to even notice it had occurred, given how little attention she paid to both her followers and her city.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I would never harm one of Mortisflor¡¯s guests. I should never even consider such a thing.¡± The high priest hung her head. ¡°Though there is nothing I can do to stop you, I still ask that you not speak ill of my god.¡±

    Ashamed at having brought about the sadness in the priest¡¯s voice, Derzina resolved to speak of Mortisflor with more respect. As little regard as she had for the goddess, this was still their city and nothing good could come of insulting them to her followers in this fashion. ¡°My apologies, I should never have done so. Whatever my view of her, I can see that she means a lot to you and your people.¡±

    ¡°More than you can imagine.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your name, anyway?¡± Derzina asked. She felt some small connection with the high priest and it was strange knowing only their title.

    ¡°I have no name, not anymore. I gave it up when I chose to serve her as one of her priests.¡±

    ¡°How did come to become one of her priests, anyway? Did she choose you?¡± If so, it would be a considerable deviation from the goddess¡¯ usual disregard for her people.

    ¡°Yes, though not directly. The ceremony is not unlike the choosing you witnessed; would you like to see it?¡±

    Recalling how horrific the choosing had been to witness, Derzina shook her head. ¡°No, I would not.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure? We begin by flaying the skin from the kings, once Mortisflor has discarded them. It¡¯s what each priest¡¯s robes are made from. Then¡ª¡±

    ¡°Enough, I don¡¯t want to hear any more.¡± Being here was bad enough without having to dwell on the evils that were doubtless perpetrated all around her in this twisted place.

    ¡°Is there anything you would prefer to see? I wish to know more of you, who are so favoured by Mortisflor.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, is there anything that doesn¡¯t involve anyone getting hurt or killed?¡±

    ¡°That is a most difficult condition, are you sure about that?¡±

    ¡°Completely.¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    They walked in silence for a while, the high priest muttering under her breath as she thought until finally, she formulated a response. ¡°There is a large bathhouse reserved for the priesthood, which you may enjoy. To my shame, soaking in the water does bring me some measure of relief after a long day of working in Mortisflor¡¯s name.¡±

    ¡°Very well, that sounds pleasant enough.¡± Or at least as pleasant as anything in this city. There was sure to be some distasteful elements to it, but surely a bathhouse couldn¡¯t be all that bad. ¡°How far away is it?¡±

    ¡°Not far, we should be there shortly.¡±

    The high priest navigated the winding streets with ease and they reached a large stone building covered from wall-to-wall in garish red designs that Derzina couldn¡¯t make heads or tails of.

    ¡°Are these supposed to mean anything?¡± she asked, looking up at them as they stood before the entrance.

    ¡°Not really, priests just paint whatever they feel like on here; they¡¯re not usually very good.¡± She pointed to a narrow line of red that encircled the whole building. ¡°That one¡¯s mine. It¡¯s supposed to be the King¡¯s River.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± The line did resemble a river, to the extent a simple line could. ¡°Shall we go inside?¡±

    The interior was similarly decorated and consisted of one large chamber with a single enormous stone bath spanning the length of it. A few priests were already present, each still wearing their robe. They bathed in the red-tinged water or sat beside it talking amongst each other. Several of them looked at Derzina as she entered, though none of them approached. It seemed they didn¡¯t have the same interest in her that their high priest did.

    Derzina stood near the entrance, uncertain, while the priest who¡¯d brought her here exhibited no such hesitation as they walked over to the bath and submerged themselves to their shoulders.

    ¡°Is that water safe?¡± Derzina asked, moving over to the edge. The liquid smelled faintly of blood and she could feel its warmth from here.

    ¡°Perfectly,¡± the high priest said, with a contented sigh as she sunk deeper.

    Despite the priest¡¯s assurances, Derzina was far from convinced. ¡°You¡¯re sure it won¡¯t cause me any harm?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s just water.¡±

    ¡°Why are you all still wearing your clothes? Isn¡¯t this supposed to be a bath?¡±

    ¡°We can never remove our robes once we join the priesthood,¡± the priest said, sounding completely relaxed, ¡°they become one with our body after we don them.¡±

    ¡°And that doesn¡¯t bother you?¡± It seemed quite the unpleasant fate to submit to, though she supposed it was probably no worse than much of what went on within Merstaneon.

    ¡°It is what Mortisflor desires, my wishes are of no consequence.¡±

    ¡°Wait, does that mean you didn¡¯t want it?¡± If so, that would the first sign that she was the least bit dissatisfied with her lot in life. The first sign that she had any true sense to her.

    In lieu of replying, the high priest submerged her head for a few seconds before resurfacing. ¡°My body, along with every other part of me, belong to Mortisflor.¡± She stood up in the bath facing Derzina. ¡°Now, are you going to get in or not? I did not bring you here to appreciate the architecture.¡±

    Though she still had her reservations, it had been a terribly long time since Derzina had taken a hot bath. She was taking off her clothes when she glanced at the other priests and stopped. The high priest was a woman, at least as far as she could tell with the robes, but she had no idea about the others. ¡°Is there nowhere more private I can use?¡±

    ¡°Why? This is the finest bath in all the city.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not comfortable disrobing in front of men, particularly those I don¡¯t know from a foreign city.¡± She decided it was best she explain her reasoning without further back and forth. If her experiences here had taught here anything, it was that there was no sense expecting any level of common sense from the residents of Merstaneon.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be afraid of. We priests are above petty carnal desires.¡± She tugged on Derzina¡¯s clothing, who relented. It was silly to fear exposing her body; it was nothing next to all the other trials and tribulations she faced. Pulling off her shirt and breeches, Derzina climbed into the water beside the high priest who paid no attention to Derzina¡¯s naked body except for her false leg formed of shadow.

    ¡°What happened to your leg?¡± the priest asked, amazed.

    ¡°I lost it in battle and Atasimon, the goddess within me, was kind enough to provide me with a replacement.¡± She didn¡¯t know if it was permanent or not, but it had lasted well enough so far and she was afraid to ask if it was going to disappear.

    ¡°To carry the blessing of your god with you everywhere you go in such a manner is a great blessing indeed, even if the one you serve is beneath the contempt of Mortisflor. I can only hope that I too will be worthy of such favour one day.¡±

    Enjoying the water, which seemed perfectly ordinary beyond the colour and smell, Derzina rubbed the accumulated grime from her body. ¡°Would you serve another god in her place? If you had the option? The gods I¡¯ve known would be happy to reward a follower as devoted as yourself for their service.¡±

    The high priest closed her eyes, breathing in and out before replying. ¡°I cannot be tempted to stray from Mortisflor¡¯s grace, regardless of what false promises the others may offer. She is my life and the only one I shall ever follow.¡±

    A fine little speech, though Derzina wasn¡¯t sure she believed it. ¡°What if you could have joined their service instead of Mortisflor¡¯s then? Would you have changed your decision?¡± She wasn¡¯t sure what she hoped to accomplish by speaking so to the high priest and it was unlikely to do much good, but it felt right to question the madness present within the city and the path that had led them to it.

    ¡°Enough, please; I have heard enough of this blasphemy for today. You cannot sway my devotion, best that you spare us both such fruitless words.¡±

    Tiring of trying to change their mind, Derzina finished washing herself and dried herself with a towel offered to her by the high priest.

    ¡°Do you know any way I can contact Mortisflor?¡± Derzina asked, as she was putting her clothes back on.

    ¡°None, short of petitioning her at the palace. Something which she takes a very dim view of. I think she tortured the last person foolish enough to demand her attention for days.¡±

    However poorly Mortisflor may treat her subjects, Derzina wasn¡¯t one of them and she was fairly confident the goddess would be more willing to receive her. ¡°Be that as it may, I still think it my best option. I have important business with her and I¡¯ve lingered her long enough.¡±

    ¡°Disrespectful as you may be,¡± the priest said, leaving the bath to follow Derzina, ¡°I would rather not see you dead. It would be a waste of a rather novel creature. You should simply wait until Mortisflor wishes to speak with you, that is the only sensible course.¡±

    Laughable as the priest claiming to speak sense would ordinarily have been, there was some merit to what she was saying now. But it did nothing to alter Derzina¡¯s resolve, her mind was made up. ¡°While I thank you for your advice, I refuse to wait here any longer.¡± She was about to leave on her own, when she realised she had no idea how to get to the palace from here. ¡°You have treated me with more kindness than I would have expected from anyone in your city; will you do me one last favour and return me to the palace?¡±

    The high priest sighed. ¡°I will, though I urge you to reconsider.¡±

    After a short jaunt through the city, they reached the street where Derzina had emerged after being dismissed from the palace the first time. She strode forward and pounded on Mortisflor¡¯s golden door. When no reply came even after more than a minute of waiting, she continued to strike the barrier before her until it finally opened and Mortisflor appeared. Contrary to Derzina¡¯s expectations, there was nothing of anger in her manner. The goddess¡¯ lazy grin and unfocused eyes spoke of another emotion entirely.

    ¡°To what do I owe the pleasure?¡± Mortisflor asked.

    ¡°I have seen enough of your city; it is time that you render me assistance.¡± There seemed little point in being polite with the mad goddess, it would make no difference either way.

    Mortisflor shrugged and beckoned her inside. Following the goddess, Derzina left the stunned high priest out on the street.

 22 - The Whims of Gods and Wizards

    ¡°Well, here I am,¡± Mortisflor said, seated upon the disc that served as her throne in a short robe of silky red material which left little to the imagination. ¡°Whatever you want, I suggest you make it quick. Had I not given you my word that I would grant you an audience, you would already be dead or banished from my city.¡±

    ¡°Then I won¡¯t waste your time,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°Where and how did Meztraxia obtain the ability to negate magic?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know the exact details, as I wasn¡¯t there when it happened. But from what he told me and what I could confirm on my own, he drew it forth from a magical device of some kind that he discovered in the King¡¯s River. It had been sapping the life from my city for some time before he rooted it out for me.¡±

    ¡°Where is this device now?¡±

    ¡°Destroyed, quite thoroughly I might add. I take a dim view to such tampering.¡±

    ¡°Is that all you have to offer? Without the device, your story is of little use to me.¡±

    ¡°While I may no longer have it, I do know where it came from and who made it. It was all the work of a wizard by the name of Erstanos. He has been trying to bring down my city for some time now from his tower near the Great Rift. If anyone knows about that device, it¡¯s him.¡±

    Mortisflor got up and walked towards the exit, only turning back for a few last words. ¡°While you¡¯re there, kill him for me, would you?¡±

    Mortisflor¡¯s chamber faded away to red, and Derzina appeared before the Great Rift.

    ¡°That went surprisingly well,¡± Derzina said, ¡°given what Mortisflor is like.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°Though I don¡¯t relish the prospect of dealing with a wizard, he may very well prove to be worse than Mortisflor. At least her madness was manageable.¡±

    ¡°How would you suggest we go about it then? I know nothing of wizards.¡±

    ¡°I recommend that you treat him with as much courtesy as you can manage, wizards tend to be both mercurial and prickly in my experience. Much as I¡¯d prefer to kill him and be done with it, I have little faith in our ability to discern anything about his plans or how he created the device in question without questioning him.¡±

    ¡°You want me to talk to him?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you handle that, given how important this is?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much good it would do, you¡¯re as likely to get things right as I am. I would much rather maintain my focus in case he decides he¡¯d prefer to destroy us than hear our plea.¡±

    ¡°Is that likely to happen?¡± It would make for quite an unfortunate end to their journey if they were to die here when they were so close to finding the answers they¡¯d come all this way for.

    ¡°I hope not, though it¡¯s impossible to say without knowing the wizard himself. The ones I knew more than a century ago were quick to take offense, and I imagine the current state of the world has done little to improve their temperament.¡±

    ¡°I fear you likely have the right of it,¡± Derzina said. ¡°After seeing a god brought so low by the corruption the demons brought to this world, it seems a miracle that any semblance of true civilisation still remains within this realm.¡±

    Seeing little reason to delay further, Derzina searched the vicinity of the Great Rift. Try as she might, she could find nothing that so much as hinted of a tower or any worked stone at all. It was only when Atasimon sensed faint amount of peculiar magic emanating from a rock formation that Derzina located the tower nestled within it.

    She squeezed through the narrow passage and beheld the structure of pale crystal. Tapering sharply at the top, it resembled a great spearhead pointed toward the sky. Curiously, unlike the colourful crystals Derzina encountered on her way here, the enormous crystal that made up the tower was without pigment. Its only hue came from taking on those of its surroundings.

    ¡°Am I supposed to knock?¡± Derzina asked within her mind. There was no door or any other means of egress to be seen.

    ¡°I doubt he¡¯ll be able to hear you, but the mere act of touching it may serve to alert him. Though before you do anything allow me to offer what little protection I can.¡±

    Shadows wrapped around Derzina¡¯s right hand, and she used the same to rap lightly on the tower¡¯s hard exterior. Her knocking produced little in the way of sound and, bereft of any indication that the wizard had noticed her, she tried again to equally poor results.

    ¡°Do you think he might be away?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Though possible, I think it rather unlikely. Wizards tend to keep to themselves, and I imagine he would have little desire to venture out in this accursed land. I know I would much rather be sitting in a tower right now, given the option.¡±

    Derzina was considering how else they might be able to rouse the master from his home, when a narrow slot opened in the tower. An old man peered out at her, eyes narrowing as if he was struggling to see her across the short distance separating them.

    ¡°Hello?¡± Derzina called, leaning forward.

    ¡°What?¡± the old man demanded, veins standing out on his forehead through his dark parchment skin.

    As she opened her mouth to repeat the greeting, he cut her off with another question. ¡°Who are you then?¡±

    ¡°My name is Derzina, I¡¯ve come to ask about a device of your creation, capable of negating magic.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re a human, are you?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t see many of your sort around these parts. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve spoken with a human in decades.¡±This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    ¡°That¡¯s understandable, this- ¡°

    ¡°¡¯Course,¡± the old man said, ¡°it¡¯s not as if I wanted to. Bunch of half-wits with the imaginations of rocks if you ask me.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for Erstanos; are you him?¡± Derzina asked, pressing on in spite of the old man¡¯s ramblings and interruptions.

    ¡°Who wants to know?¡± he demanded, brows knitting together in confusion.

    Derzina wondered if old age had robbed him of his wits, but she heeded Atasimon¡¯s warning and proceeded with caution. ¡°As I said- ¡°

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve made many things over the years. You¡¯ll have to be more specific.¡±

    ¡°It was a device capable of nullifying even the power of a god. I was told it was placed in the King¡¯s River before being found by the Demon Lord Meztraxia.¡±

    ¡°Where did you hear such a thing?¡± he asked.

    ¡°From Mortisflor.¡±

    ¡°That demented old beast? Are you one of hers?¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯ve only recently become acquainted with her,¡± Derzina said, disgusted at the very thought that someone would think her a servant of the mad god. ¡°And that was purely for the sake of my search, I must know how Meztraxia acquired this power and what can be done to defeat him.¡±

    With a grunt, the old man rubbed his brow. ¡°For what reason do you wish for his destruction with such fervour? You must harbour a great deal of resentment toward him to have come so far and dealt with an entity as foul as Mortisflor.¡±

    Derzina knew from his tone that he was just being polite, but even that much recognition was reassuring. Too long had she been the company of those who cared not in the slightest for the tragedy she sought to avenge.

    ¡°You have the right of it, sir. Meztraxia destroyed my city and slew my god. If he is not stopped, I fear he shall do the same to the last of my people¡¯s havens.¡±

    Heat spread through her chest as righteous fury built within her. Had Meztraxia presented himself at that moment, she doubted she could have restrained herself from trying to end the Demon Lord who had caused her, and her people, so much suffering.

    ¡°Then you act for the sake of averting further destruction? Admirable enough, assuming what you say is true. ¡°

    ¡°I swear on the memory of Ortesia, who I pledged to serve, that what I have told you is without falsehood.¡±

    He narrowed his eyes at her, looking her over for the first time. ¡°You seem sincere enough. Very well, I shall render unto you what assistance I can. I did indeed create the device you speak of, but it does not negate magic; it absorbs it. Forged from a combination of cunning artifice and the raw energy of creation, I named it the Heart of Imistala, after our founder. If he possesses the same power, it because he has absorbed the heart¡¯s essence.¡±

    ¡°For what purpose did you create such a thing?¡±

    ¡°I cannot say. Though I wish to help you, there are some secrets that are mine alone to bear.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Derzina said, trying to keep the disappointment out of her voice. For all that he claimed to support her cause, the wizard seemed to be offering little of value. ¡°Then is there any assistance you can provide against this blight upon the world? Can the heart be destroyed?¡±

    ¡°Destroyed? I think that rather unlikely, barring some method of cutting it off from the world entirely. You¡¯d best look elsewhere if that is what you seek. For what it¡¯s worth, I would much rather you leave what remains of the heart intact; it took quite a lot of time and effort to create.¡±

    Derzina took a deep breath, struggling to remain patient in the face of someone who obviously cared little about the outside world. And why would he? Humanity being wiped out wouldn¡¯t change much for him out here, hidden away in his tower.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to destroy it, then is there some way to disable it? Meztraxia simply cannot be allowed to wield such power.¡±

    ¡°I suppose demons are the not the most stable creatures, it likely would be prudent that the heart was not left in his hands overlong. Unfortunately, it also cannot be disabled; it possesses far too much energy for that.¡±

    ¡°Is that it then?¡± Derzina asked, struggling to keep from shouting. ¡°Is my only course to accept the eventual doom he will bring upon my people?¡±

    ¡°There may be a way to separate the Demon Lord from the heart,¡± the old man said, stroking his chin. ¡°To what extent are you willing to go to see this thing done?¡±

    ¡°I will do whatever it takes,¡± Derzina said, covering her heart with her fist.

    Wrinkles shifting, the old man smiled ever so slightly. ¡°So long as that resolve remains true, then Meztraxia shall be deprived of his pilfered power before he has a chance to do further harm to the world.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s frustration evaporated, it seemed the wizard finally had something to offer. It would have saved her a considerable amount of disquiet if he¡¯d simply led with that, but she was happy to overlook it.

    ¡°What must I do?¡± she asked, steeling herself for whatever he might propose.

    ¡°I created the heart to bond with any sources of magic it came into contact with, though that didn¡¯t quite work out as far as the river was concerned. It did, however, work quite splendidly with Meztraxia.¡±

    He let out a short bark of laughter. ¡°I was largely unconcerned with that result until you arrived at my door and informed me of the damage my creation had caused through its new owner. But I digress, all you require is someone a subtle touch and a great deal of expertise with magic. And, of course, the willingness to get close enough to interact with the heart¡¯s bond directly.¡±

    ¡°Where could we find such a figure?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Meztraxia was able to defeat gods, so I doubt any of those would fit the bill. Except maybe for Darmis.¡±

    The old man blinked. ¡°Where did you hear that name?¡±

    ¡°From a servant named Venestamino, he was the one who pointed us in the direction of the Great Rift in the first place.¡±

    ¡°That explains much. While Darmis would certainly be a suitable candidate, I fear we haven¡¯t the slightest chance of persuading him to aid us. No, my thoughts were of a rather different being; a colleague of mine, by the name of Araveena.¡±

    ¡°Another wizard? Would they truly be willing to risk themselves to combat Meztraxia? I imagine getting close enough to him to remove the heart will be quite dangerous.¡±

    ¡°Likely it will be, but Araveena has always had a soft spot for humans; she was one of the lead proponents of the plan to destroy the demon¡¯s world after all.¡±

    Derzina was surprised enough that Erstanos had been willing to aid her to this extent, it seemed almost too good to be true that there was another wizard out there willing to do so much more. Clearly the merging of the worlds had done little to tarnish the hearts of wizards, perhaps it had even improved them.

    ¡°Wonderful, then I would be delighted to meet her. Where does she reside?¡±

    ¡°Near a city to the south-east, if you will but allow me a few moments I shall provide you with a map.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Derzina said, ¡°I¡¯m happy to wait.¡±

    The slot closed, hiding the old man from view.

    ¡°This is going far better than I could have hoped,¡± Derzina said, within her mind.

    ¡°He has been surprisingly helpful, though I still don¡¯t trust him.¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°I know he¡¯s not too concerned about our plight, but he¡¯s clearly willing to help, isn¡¯t that enough?¡±

    ¡°It speaks in his favour, but I cannot forget that the last time I trusted a wizard it resulted in this ruin of a world. I suggest you keep that in mind.¡±

    ¡°I will, though I doubt we have anything to concern ourselves with in that regard. I¡¯d say it¡¯s best that we focus on the task at hand.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Atasimon said, sounding chastised, ¡°I should be thinking of what¡¯s important. I fear watching events unfold as a mere spectator like this leads me to overanalyse things.¡±

    The tower opened up again, and the old man thrust a piece of dark red parchment through the narrow gap. Derzina took it and saw there were only two locations marked, with a little symbol at the top to indicate north. Erstanos was obvious enough, but she didn¡¯t recognise the name atop the other mark.

    ¡°What is Brtet?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°One of your human cities; you¡¯ll find her tower on the outskirts.¡±

    ¡°Would it be possible to get more detailed directions? I wouldn¡¯t want to miss it.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve got eyes, don¡¯t you?¡± the old man asked scornfully. ¡°If you get anywhere close, you¡¯ll spot it.¡±

    Crystal shifted, concealing the wizard from view and cutting off further conversation. Taking the hint and satisfied with all she was given, Derzina took her leave.

 23 - Brtet

    Traversing the crystal fields once more put Derzina at ease, she was more familiar with them now and they seemed almost pleasant compared to the streets of Merstaneon. Dangerous as the creatures attracted by the freely available magic were, it was a peaceful enough journey so long as she remained at a distance from them and kept her wits about her. Though she did keep a careful watch on the colours of the crystal to ensure the invisible colour-eaters didn¡¯t take her by surprise. To her relief, the colours along her path were vibrant and showed no signs of fading.

    ¡°Did you ever visit a land as strange and magical as this during your time on Oelindrey?¡± Derzina asked, speaking inward.

    ¡°None where so much magic leaked out into the world, though it does remind me of Estalius¡¯ garden to an extent.¡± Atasimon¡¯s tone grew wistful, tinged with both sorrow and joy. ¡°He filled it with a staggering variety of beautiful plants and flowers, many of them his own original creations. I recall there being several pools of reflective water near the centre, where the plants were densest, and you could see all the colours of the garden reflected within them.¡±

    ¡°I would love to have seen it, though I don¡¯t believe I¡¯ve ever heard of Estalius.¡±

    ¡°He was not much of one for public appearances. Regrettably he and his garden were both lost long before your time. I passed many afternoons there when my travels brought me to his doorstep. At least until the war came, then there was no time for such indulgences.¡±

    Derzina could only guess at the tragedies that had befallen Atasimon during her long life. She imagined that the fall of Ortesia and the city named for her, terrible as they had been, were not even the worst things Atasimon had faced. That single event had almost broken Derzina, yet the goddess had suffered so much more and kept on fighting. Derzina doubted she could ever be that strong, but she found the example encouraging. If the goddess could do all that, then she could do her duty and put an end to Meztraxia.

    ¡°Were there ever times during the war when you just didn¡¯t know what to do?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°When things seemed completely out of your control?¡±

    ¡°Oh, all the time, especially towards the end. Why do you think we ever agreed to the wizards¡¯ plan? But you learn to get used to it, you have to.¡±

    Derzina nodded. It seemed she still had a lot to learn, as she didn¡¯t feel the least bit used to any of this. She doubted she ever would be, that sort of fortitude was surely beyond mortals. Still, there was no use fretting over it. One way or another, her task would come to an end soon. All she could do was try her utmost and hope it worked out in the end. At least she could look forward to leaving the Great Rift and the crystals behind.

    Clinging to that thought inspired her to yet greater speeds as she traversed the broken landscape, running around the wider rifts and leaping over the smaller ones. Focused on the physical challenges of the journey as well as staying alert, she was almost able to forget what lay ahead. Yet no matter what she did, some shadow of it remained with her always. It was hardly surprising; she probably wouldn¡¯t be free of trepidation until the day she died.

    ¡°Did you have anything you desired from the future?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Before the demons invaded, I mean.¡± Such a calamity would surely have disrupted almost anyone¡¯s plans. Before Derzina¡¯s city fell, she¡¯d planned to be a Paladin one day. That had been the extent of her hopes and dreams for what was to come.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°I believe my foremost concerns were with my children, though I struggle to remember any of the details after what happened during the battle.¡±

    ¡°Oh, my apologies. I didn¡¯t mean to dredge up painful memories.¡± Or the lack thereof, the goddess¡¯ fragmented memory sounded maddening. As much as their fate saddened her, remembering her family helped Derzina to maintain her resolve. They, more than Ortesia or her former city, were what she was fighting for. She regretted being too caught up in her training to spend more time with them, but there was nothing for it now. The only way she could make up for the past was to avenge them. ¡°Was there anything else you wanted to do?¡±

    ¡°Beyond my family, I was mostly concerned with travel and petty intrigue amongst the gods. However, none of that was important then, and it¡¯s certainly not important now; I have no desire for either of things anymore. There¡¯s no where in this blighted world that I want to go and the gods have far more important things to worry about than silly squabbles.¡± The goddess sighed. ¡°Had we set them aside long before the invasion and worked together, perhaps this terrible calamity could have been avoided.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you all did what you could to protect Oelindrey.¡± Hollow words, given that the war happened long before Derzina was born but she wished to believe in the gods, especially Atasimon. There was precious little else to believe in now.

    ¡°I wish I was nearly so confident in that as you are.¡±

    Hoping to raise the goddess¡¯ evidently low spirits, Derzina changed to a topic she hoped would be at least be amusing. ¡°You know, horrible as it was, Merstaneon was somewhat of a funny place. Full as it was of Mortisflor¡¯s followers and their bizarre devotion. Despite all the time we spent there, it still doesn¡¯t quite feel real.¡±

    ¡°Indeed. I found myself wondering at times if we weren¡¯t afflicted by some form of illusion magic, despite knowing that couldn¡¯t possibly be the case. It seemed a more reasonable explanation than the city and its people being real.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully we¡¯ll never have to go back there again,¡± Derzina said, relieved that she¡¯d been successful in distracting the goddess from her tragic past.

    ¡°Indeed. Her citizens were somewhat bearable, but I never wish to meet Mortisflor ever again, unless it is to slay her. She disgraces the memory of Oelindrey and all those who fought against the demons, especially the gods who fell in battle against the Demon King.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t realise you felt quite so strongly about it.¡± Though it was hardly surprising, Mortisflor was an abomination onto the world.

    ¡°I tried not to let my feelings influence me too much while we were there, our work was too important. As appalling a creature as Mortisflor has become, she seems content to seal herself away in the Great Rift.¡±

    ¡°What about all the people who live in the city under her rule? Do you not wish to liberate them from her influence?¡±

    ¡°I do, and were it within my power I would gladly do so. Though even if we were to depose Mortisflor, I doubt they would ever return to normal. They have likely been twisted beyond recognition by the very nature of their home and she who rules it.¡±

    During her time among Merstaneon¡¯s inhabitants, Derzina had developed a small measure of sympathy for them, and Atasimon¡¯s insights were painful to hear. If there was any chance of saving them, then Derzina wanted to do so one day. After deciding that, she realised she now had something of a goal beyond defeating Meztraxia. It wasn¡¯t much, but it made her feel a little more alive.

    She continued to run all day and night, following the vague directions provided to her until the towering walls of a city came into view. They were of a more elegant, sweeping nature than those of her home, and much of the stone was decorated with simple designs of green and gold. Impressive as the walls were, Derzina¡¯s attention was immediately drawn to the tower that stood beside them.

 24 - Dark Dreams

    Marching at the head of his army, Meztraxia advanced through the trackless wastes. Each step brought him that much closer to victory, and he proceeded with a satisfied smile. The heart within him whispered of how it was but a matter of time before he brought final judgement upon humanity and the world that would follow, full of opportunity for his people. They would no long be forced to eke out a meagre existence, instead they would surpass even the world of their forefathers.

    Once his work was complete, the Demon King would be reborn through him and he would reign over the world for all eternity. Though he didn¡¯t much believe in the heart¡¯s grander promises, they made for a pleasant diversion. It¡¯s not as if there was much else to think about while marching, his plans had been made and all that remained was to execute them.

    Distracted as he was by his thoughts and dreams, it was a few moments before Meztraxia realised he could no longer hear anyone marching behind him. Had they already stopped to rest despite the suns still being out? Wheeling around, Meztraxia was already preparing to deliver a furious rebuke when he stopped cold and the words died on his lips. Only darkness lay behind him, covering everything. Glancing in the other direction, he found the path ahead similarly obscured. It consumed all light, save for a slowly shrinking circle around him.

    Despite the strangeness of it all, Meztraxia wasn¡¯t afraid in the slightest. There was clearly some deception in play here, everything couldn¡¯t have simply disappeared. After a brief spell of consideration, Meztraxia recalled the godling he fought several days ago and had failed to kill. He didn¡¯t know how or to what end, but this had to be her doing somehow. Calling out to the heart, he asked that it dispel this nonsense. He waited, but the heart was silent and the darkness remained.

    It continued to close in until all he could see was himself, wreathed in shadow.

    ¡°Your tricks don¡¯t frighten me, godling,¡± he said, standing defiant against the dark. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter what you do, I shall hunt you down along with the rest of your kind.¡±

    Tendrils of shadow appeared all around him and he fumbled for a weapon, only to find that he carried none. Nor would his sanguis¡ªthe power inherent to all Demon Lords¡ªrespond to his will. The shadow ignored his attempts to beat it back with his bare hands, forcing itself into his eyes and mouth. Laughing in contempt, Meztraxia stopped his struggling and allowed it to happen. There was a brief sensation of something akin to oily smoke against his flesh before everything went dark and even his laughter was lost to the dark.

    Meztraxia jerked awake and found himself in his tent, with his skin as cold as ice despite his blanket. Rubbing warmth back into his limbs, he looked down at himself. The perfectly smooth circle of purple crystal tinged with red still sat in the centre of his chest, but an inky blackness emanated from the edge of it. The closest portions of his flesh had already been dyed black by it. Commanding the heart to dispel it to no success, Meztraxia shook his head. Whatever this was, it wasn¡¯t a serious threat. To rid himself of it, all he had to do was slay the godling.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

    Angry at being so tainted by the goddess¡¯ magic, he dressed himself and stormed out. He looked around and saw his army¡¯s camp arrayed before him, just the way he¡¯d left it last night. Chiding himself for harbouring the slightest bit of doubt, Meztraxia dismissed his dream and set out about the day¡¯s business.

    Though the suns were barely over the horizon, many of the soldiers were already preparing to march. Seeing them work with such conviction never failed to gladden Meztraxia. It reinforced, if only a little, that his men were committed to his cause. Not that he should require any reminders, after they¡¯d fought and died for him against the humans. And what a great victory they¡¯d won, he could practically feel the pride that flowed through those around them. They were all a part of something far greater than themselves, the same even applied to Meztraxia himself.

    Walking amongst the soldiers, Meztraxia called out from time to time to those he recognised. After exchanging a few pleasantries with them, he moved on. Though not a productive exercise, he felt it helped to keep their morale up. Something which they¡¯d need every bit of if they were to triumph over one of the better defended cities. As he was making the rounds, the shadows around Meztraxia dramatically lengthened.

    He was reaching for his sword when they returned to normal. Shaking his head in the hopes of clearing it, the Demon Lord swore once more to destroy the godling who dared torment him. Occupied with imagining just how he would end her; he was taken by surprise when one of his soldiers called out to him.

    ¡°My lord,¡± the woman in his livery said, holding an envelope toward him, ¡°a letter came for you. I looked for you at your tent but¡ª¡±

    Waving off her explanation, he took the letter and tore it open. The grey paper within contained only a short message from Lord Azuren, informing him that his army was to march to meet up with the demon¡¯s main force immediately or Meztraxia would be deemed a traitor. Tossing the letter on the ground, he brought forth his miniature warriors and had them tear it into tiny pieces.

    ¡°My lord?¡± the soldier asked in horror. ¡°That was from the supreme commander.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m aware. Lord Azuren¡¯s position is only temporary, we have nothing to fear from him.¡±

    ¡°As you say, my lord.¡± Not sounding entirely convinced, she ducked her head and withdrew from Meztraxia¡¯s presence.

    The Demon Lord had expected Azuren to send him an ultimatum eventually, though this was sooner than he anticipated. It didn¡¯t matter much in the grand scheme of things, so long as he was able to continue destroying the humans. But if he were to fail, then his troops were bound to desert him before long. They¡¯d probably leave the moment they believed his campaign¡¯s progress had stalled. All the more reason to destroy the goddess of shadow once and for all, that her interference wouldn¡¯t affect his future plans.

 25 - City of The Triumvirate

    Within sight of the city¡¯s graceful arcing walls, the tower ahead surely belonged to Araveena. Situated within a dense cluster of trees, which to Derzina¡¯s surprise she recognised as being from her own world rather than Soarister¡¯s realm, it was made of light-coloured wood. Despite being a similar shape, the construction was quite unlike Erstanos¡¯ tower. This one was wider, with windows and a door.

    Encouraged by the far more welcoming appearance of Araveena¡¯s home, along with its accessibility, she strolled right up to the door and knocked.

    ¡°Hi there,¡± called a high-pitched voice and a bird of silver metal fluttered down from one of the windows.

    Derzina marvelled for a moment at the intricate construct, its metal wings flapping almost effortlessly to keep itself aloft, before reminding herself that she had important business to attend to. ¡°Hello. My name is Derzina, I¡¯ve come to speak with Araveena.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid Araveena is away at the moment. Though I may be able to help you in her stead, what is this regarding?¡±

    ¡°A task of considerable importance, the outcome of which will determine the fate of cities, quite probably including this one. It¡¯s a little hard to explain; I¡¯d rather go over with Araveena herself if that¡¯s alright with you. Do you know when she¡¯ll be back?¡±

    ¡°Probably not until tomorrow, but if its urgent you could always seek her out in the city.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s in the city?¡± Derzina asked, she¡¯d assumed the wizard would have business somewhere far more distant. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go and meet with her, if I can. Where would I find her?¡±

    ¡°Most likely in the company of Inea, or somewhere within her palace.¡±

    Derzina cleared her throat. ¡°And where might I find this palace?¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± the bird asked, dumbfounded.

    The bird¡¯s reaction threw her for a moment, until it occurred to her that it hadn¡¯t realised she wasn¡¯t from around here.

    ¡°I¡¯ve travelled here from Ortesion to see Araveena, and I¡¯m afraid I know nothing of your city beyond the name.¡±

    It seemed prudent to leave out her trip to the Great Rift and the corrupted city within, it would only make people suspicious.

    ¡°A visitor? Oh my, I don¡¯t believe we¡¯ve ever had one of those before. Well I¡¯m sure Araveena shall be delighted to meet you. At least until you explain why you came here, that part doesn¡¯t sound very delightful at all.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all well and good,¡± Derzina said, clearing her throat, ¡°but I¡¯d appreciate those directions, if you don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Oh, right, of course.¡±

    The bird explained that the palace was the huge structure near the northern wall, which was the one closest to her. Nodding and thanking the bird for its help, Derzina set off toward the city.

    She was approaching the base of the walls, wondering how she was going to get inside given the lack of entrances, when a figure in light armour descended via a rope. Not wanting to alarm whoever was clearly coming to accost her, Derzina remained where she was and waited.

    ¡°What should we do?¡± she asked internally.

    ¡°I¡¯ll speak with them,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°that ought to resolve things more quickly. I imagine they¡¯ll be much more likely to take the word of a god, over that of a wayward human without a city. No offense.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯re right about that, go ahead then.¡±

    Atasimon rose to the forefront of Derzina¡¯s mind, and called out to the approaching figure in a booming voice, ¡°I am Atasimon, Lady of the Twisted Veil; identify yourself.¡±

    Only when they reached the ground did the soldier reply.

    ¡°I am Mostanto, Paladin of Xanathel. He told me of your coming, and asked that I convey you to him upon your arrival.¡±

    ¡°I would be happy to meet with him,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°but I prefer to do so after I¡¯ve spoken with Inea, I have important business with her.¡±

    ¡°I assure you Xanathel is more than capable of assisting you with anything Inea might be able to help you with.¡±

    ¡°Though I don¡¯t doubt that, there is simply no substitute for Inea in this matter.¡±

    ¡°Then at least meet with him briefly on your way to her palace; he awaits you just beyond the wall.¡±Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°Can¡¯t this wait?¡±

    ¡°Please,¡± the soldier pleaded, ¡°it is imperative that he speaks with you as soon as possible. I swear it will not delay you long, and then you will be free to do as you wish.¡±

    He seemed utterly sincere in his desire to do his god¡¯s bidding, something which Derzina found all too relatable. That same earnest desire to serve her people and her god still lived within her. It was what kept her going, more than anything else.

    ¡°You may as well hear what Xanathel has to say,¡± Derzina said, within her own head. ¡°We can afford a slight delay.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Atasimon said aloud, ¡°take me to him.¡±

    ¡°A thousand blessings upon you, my lady,¡± Mostanto said, bowing before her. ¡°Then I shall meet you atop the wall, and we will go from there.¡±

    As he climbed the rope, Atasimon¡¯s shadows extended around her and quickly carried her past him. Reaching the top, she looked out at the city. Though the city was larger and the architecture more elegant, it was enough like home to make Derzina¡¯s heart ache and she wondered if she might find a place here, once Meztraxia was vanquished.

    Alone on the wall, for this stretch was deserted, Atasimon waited and knelt down when Mostanto was close to the top. She extended her hand and pulled him the rest of the way.

    ¡°Thank you, my lady,¡± he said, out of breath. ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll allow me to lead the way.¡±

    Atasimon nodded and followed him as he descended the narrow staircase built into the wall.

    Once they were back outside, Mostanto gestured toward a low building ahead of them of plain stone and said, ¡°Xanathel waits you within, my lady.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Atasimon said, walking toward it without the slightest hesitation.

    The windowless interior was dimly lit and smelt of dust and oil. Ordered racks of weapons and ammunition stood within; clearly it was an armoury. The silhouette of a man sat in the dark ahead of them, barely visible.

    ¡°Then it truly is you,¡± the man said, speaking just above a whisper. ¡°I had wondered if my senses deceived me.¡±

    ¡°Here I am in the flesh,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°in a manner of speaking.¡±

    ¡°Mm, you do look different.¡±

    ¡°As do you. Time changes us all.¡±

    A flickering blue light appeared in the air before Xanathel, illuminating a long-haired man with dark eyes and a deep cleft in his cheek which was covered in old scar tissue.

    ¡°That it does,¡± he said, with a wry grin on the undamaged side of his face. ¡°Close the door, I¡¯d rather we discuss this in private.¡±

    Atasimon did as requested, exhaling through her nose in amusement.

    ¡°About that,¡± she said, once they were cut off from the outside world with all its light, ¡°I¡¯m never alone anymore. I was brought back by the sacrifice of Derzina Omun, a Paladin in the service of Ortesia, who now selflessly allows me to exist in this world once more.¡±

    Had she been in control of her body, Derzina would have smiled as her eyes misted up, but as Atasimon was otherwise engaged she let the goddess continue undisturbed.

    ¡°I suppose that would explain your miraculous resurrection,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°though I am curious as to what brought you all the way here.¡±

    ¡°Ortesion fell at the hands of the Demon Lord Meztraxia, along with my sister Ortesia. He possesses something known as the Heart of Heart of Imistala, which is capable of absorbing even the magic of a god. I have come to meet Araveena, who I am told can assist me in bringing this terrible threat to an end.¡±

    ¡°I extend my condolences for your loss to the both of you, it must have come as quite a shock. I assume it was all over quickly?¡±

    ¡°It was, on both accounts,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°Yet, you don¡¯t seem too surprised.¡±

    ¡°From what little news I get of the outside world, what happened to Ortesion is hardly an isolated incident. Two other cities have fallen within the past few years; it appears the demons are in the process of a major offensive.¡±

    ¡°I see, I had no idea such events were underway. I¡¯m afraid my long absence has left me rather ignorant of such things.¡±

    Shaking his head, Xanathel showed his teeth. Perfectly white as they were, his injury made it so the two rows didn¡¯t even come close to aligning.

    ¡°You¡¯re little different from the rest of us in that regard, we may as well be prisoners in our own city for all that we know of what happens outside it. Only through Araveena do we get any idea of what might be coming.¡±

    ¡°You claim to be ignorant of it,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°but you seemed to have no trouble noticing me before I even arrived in the city.¡±

    ¡°I was just fortunate enough to be trying to discern the movements of that very same Araveena when you showed up. Though I may not be able to sense much out there in this twisted world, I can at least figure out that my mother is on her way.¡±

    A sudden pain shot through Derzina¡¯s head, and she cried out within her own mind. Or so she thought, as she was momentarily thrust back into control of her body. The cry had barely left her throat before Atasimon was back.

    ¡°You¡­¡± Atasimon said, struggling to get the words out. ¡°You¡¯re saying you¡¯re my son?¡±

    His eyes crinkled in a combination of amusement and confusion. ¡°Of course, is this some sort of joke? Because I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t quite follow.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to be humorous; the battle against the Demon King cost me more than just my life. I also lost almost all memory of my family.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Xanathel said, dusting off his shirt. ¡°Well there was little love lost between us, if that makes you feel any better. Though if you¡¯re anything like you used to be, I doubt you¡¯re too broken up about it.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t speak much to what I was like in the past, but you¡¯re right that I have other priorities right now. Perhaps we can talk of the past later, when there¡¯s nothing at stake.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps. I didn¡¯t summon you here to reminisce. Do you recall anything of Inea?¡±

    Atasimon shook her head. ¡°The name sounds familiar to me, but I don¡¯t believe I ever met her.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s likely for the best, as she is nothing like she once was. I fear governing a city has worn away at her, making her paranoid and ungrateful of the aid of others. I would be wary of relying on her gratitude or good graces.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the only reason you wished to speak with me?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°To deliver a warning?¡±

    ¡°Not exactly. I also wanted to confirm if it was really you and hear why you¡¯d come for myself, rather than learn about it second-hand from Inea. Now that I¡¯ve done that, I¡¯ll let you be your way. Mostanto will escort you to the palace, assuming you find that arrangement agreeable.¡±

    ¡°I do. Goodbye, Xanathel.¡±

    ¡°Remember to keep your senses about you while in Inea¡¯s company,¡± he said, remaining where he was and waving goodbye.

    Atasimon returned to Mostanto, leaving her son in the armoury, and said, ¡°To the palace then.¡±

 26 - Lady of the Splendrous Host

    ¡°Do you mind taking over now?¡± Atasimon asked. ¡°I need some time to rest and think.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t say I¡¯m looking forward to meeting Inea after what your son said, but I¡¯ll try my best.¡±

    ¡°Thank you. You¡¯ll probably handle it more diplomatically than I would at any rate, I trust your judgement.¡±

    Knowing the goddess had confidence in her filled Derzina with pride as she explained to Mostanto the change that had taken place and concluded by asking, ¡°Is that alright?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± he said, ¡°I¡¯d planned to introduce the both of you anyway.¡±

    The palace towered over the rest of the city and Derzina was sure she could easily have found her way through the sweeping avenues leading to it, not that she minded the escort. Though Mostanto¡¯s presence was technically superfluous, it was reassuring to have someone she knew in this city of strangers. Even if she¡¯d only recently made his acquaintance.

    A great circle of clear space surrounded the palatial structure, the enormous circular balcony looming over the entrance before them, fenced by iron delicately shaped into flowers and branches. Though the effect was somewhat spoiled by the soldiers holding polearms placed at regular intervals all around the fence.

    From what Derzina could see, it seemed to be composed primarily of circles. The inner circle from which the balcony extended was flanked on both sides by two far larger ones that made up the bulk of the building. They curved upward toward the outer edge, resembling the wings of a colossal stone bird. Even the stone itself was decorated, covered by a mixture of spiralling murals and elegant inscription.

    Grand as the structure was, Derzina only found it captivating until she began to wonder just how much space had been wasted on it. Though none of the tightly-packed buildings in Ortesion could match the palace¡¯s beauty, they had done an exceptional job of maximising the amount of liveable space.

    How many had been crammed into tiny homes or forced to go without entirely just for the sake of this display? After what Xanathel had said, and seeing where the goddess chose to make her home; Derzina already found herself disliking Inea.

    They were approaching the wide steps enclosed within the fence leading up to the palace¡¯s entrance when several of the guards present, wearing far heavier armour than Mostanto, stepped forward to block their way.

    ¡°State your business,¡± the foremost guard said, an officer by his more ornate armour.

    Mostanto gave his name and position, before informing the officer that he was here to convey Derzina to Inea on the orders of Xanathel.

    ¡°Will you consent to handing over your weapons?¡± the officer asked.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Mostanto said, already unbuckling his sword belt.

    Unarmed, Derzina simply stood there as Mostanto disarmed himself. Once he was done, the officer handed the weapons off to one of his men and said, ¡°We shall escort you inside.¡±

    He gestured to two of his fellows who moved behind Derzina and Mostanto, then the gate was opened and the five of them climbed the steps together. Up close Derzina was able to appreciate how intricate the designs carved into the stone were. They¡¯d appeared disjointed from each other at a distance, but now she saw that they were all connected into one grandiose work of art.

    The officer proceeded them as they reached the front doors and pushed open the curved wood with ease, though they were easily several times the height of a man. Beyond lay a vast open space with high ceilings and a floor of polished white marble. In the centre of the room sat an empty throne of pale blue on an elevated platform.

    As the group approached the throne, their footsteps echoed through the immense emptiness, making Derzina feel small and unimportant. What business did a mere mortal have here, in the home of a god? As they walked, she stared up at the ceiling which held the grandest art of all.

    Dozens of gods, many of whom she didn¡¯t recognize, were arrayed in all their splendour while opposing them stood the Demon King. Depicted as a giant of black fire with a spiked crown atop his head, he bore a long fiery spear with which he menaced his foes.

    Derzina was led across the room to stand before the throne, where the officer who¡¯d brought her stopped.

    ¡°Wait here while I announce your presence to Lady Inea.¡±

    Nodding, she watched as he walked past the throne and up a narrow staircase set into the wall. The floor was cold beneath her feet, which by Derzina¡¯s reckoning fit well with her impression of the palace. Beautiful as the chilling edifice was, she could not imagine any human truly feeling at home here.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    Derzina grew tired of staring at the throne room and turned her attention inward.

    ¡°What¡¯s Inea like, anyway?¡± she asked, speaking within her mind.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never spoken with her myself, so I can only offer what I¡¯ve heard; she used to style herself Lady of the Splendorous Host, which she may still though from what we¡¯ve seen of her so far that seems doubtful. When last I saw her, she was one of the generals commanding the human armies. From what I heard, she was considered well-spoken and well-liked by humans and gods alike.¡±

    Well-liked? It was clear the humans of Brtet respected the goddess, but Derzina would be surprised if they were actually fond of her. If the enormous empty palace was anything to go by, the line between god and human was crystal clear in Brtet.

    It was nothing like Ortesion had been, where Ortestia regularly held gatherings for even the humblest of her citizens at her temple and spent much of her time walking among them. Though her impression of Inea seemed to worsen by the moment, Derzina reminded herself to withhold judgement until she¡¯d at least had a chance to meet them. Not that she fancied her judgement of a god¡¯s character was of much significance to anyone.

    ¡°Did gods often reside in such grand residences in the days of Oelindrey?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°More or less,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°they were all much too ostentatious for my liking.¡±

    ¡°Where did you live then?¡±

    ¡°My family had a sprawling temple of their own, but I didn¡¯t spend much time there when I could avoid it. I much prefer travel to staying in one place, that tends to get terribly boring before long.¡±

    Derzina found the idea that anyone could prefer travelling difficult to understand. Given the option, she¡¯d have much rather stayed in the city where she¡¯d grown up. Enduring being away from it all was the least of her trials, but it was a trial nonetheless. One she would never have undertaken were there not far more at stake than her own comfort.

    ¡°What about Ortesia?¡± Derzina asked ¡°Did she ever travel with you?¡±

    ¡°Rarely, and never of her own volition. Her responsibilities were always far more important than seeing the world.¡±

    That struck Derzina as eminently reasonable, the latter seemed frivolous and that was only compared to the everyday responsibilities Derzina had been burdened with before Meztraxia¡¯s army arrived. Surely those of a god ought to take precedence over their own amusements.

    ¡°Did you not also have followers that depended on you? Or did they travel with you?¡±

    ¡°I generally travelled alone. Those few who opted to follow me required little from me when it came to running their own lives, they were more than capable of doing that themselves. It must seem strange to you now, in this world where men can only live by the protection of their gods, but in my day, mortals were free to live as they pleased without our tampering. Not that it never seemed to stop most of my kind.¡±

    Derzina was surprised by the bitterness with which Atasimon spoke. Though she now felt na?ve for having done so, she¡¯d thought the gods had all worked together for the sake of humanity. That was how Ortesia had made it sound when she¡¯d spoken of her past glories won by her and her family. Now that Derzina thought about it, Ortesia had seldom mentioned Atasimon during her reminiscences.

    She stood there staring into space as she contemplated the past, only for the present to force its way to the fore with the arrival of what Derzina could only assume was Inea. The woman was more than a head taller than anyone in the room and wore a fine dress of green, the length of which trailed several paces behind her. Between her person and her clothing, she bore more jewels than Derzina had ever seen in one place, each one forming part of a delicate design formed of silver.

    Taking slow measured strides, Inea strode toward the throne while her officer proceeded her. He walked right past Derzina and left with the rest of his men.

    ¡°My task here is done, good luck,¡± Mostanto whispered, before slipping out with the others.

    Inea said nothing and seemed to pay her surroundings no attention until she reached her throne and looked down at Derzina from atop it. Her eyes, pools of deep green, betrayed not the slightest emotion.

    ¡°You are Atasimon¡¯s vessel?¡± she asked, though it was clear by her tone that she was already certain of the answer.

    ¡°I am, my lady,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°A mere mortal?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, my lady.¡±

    A faint tremor of rage passed across Inea¡¯s features so quickly that Derzina nearly missed it and the goddess said, ¡°Yet you stand in the presence of your betters.¡±

    ¡°My lady?¡± Derzina asked, confused.

    ¡°Kneel.¡±

    Though she was still taken off-guard, Derzina obeyed. Inea was far from polite, but it wouldn¡¯t do to disrespect a god; especially when she had something they needed. Taking a knee, Derzina looked down and waited for Inea to speak.

    ¡°Then you do have some concept of respect,¡± Inea said, ¡°unlike that pitiful husk attached to you. Why has Xanathel the treacherous son sent his deceitful mother to my door?¡±

    ¡°We have come in search of Araveena, my lady. We were told she was in your palace.¡±

    ¡°The goings on in my home are no concern of yours. Your transgressions already border on unforgivable; I will not tolerate impudent questions regarding my affairs. You do realize you¡¯re a stranger here, do you not?¡±

    ¡°I do, my lady, and it was not my intention to pry. I fully respect that your business is your own, I only wish to ask Araveena for her aid.¡±

    After having been in the company of Ortesia, Atasimon and even Mortisflor, Inea¡¯s insistence on protocol was completely unexpected. Derzina wished Xanathel had told her about that rather than the goddess¡¯ supposed paranoia, as she tried her best to assuage the goddess¡¯ outrage.

    ¡°Do you now? You¡¯ve brought your filth into my palace purely for the sake of one little wizard? You must take me for a fool if you expect me to believe such an outlandish story. I had hoped a goddess, even one so diminished, would have more sense. I have heard enough; get out of my sight.¡±

    Her patience reaching its end, Derzina opened her mouth to protest. Before she could get a word out, she heard Atasimon¡¯s voice in her head.

    ¡°Don¡¯t. There¡¯s nothing to be gained here, we should leave while we still can.¡±

    Swallowing her pride and her words, Derzina bowed to Inea and walked out.

 27 - The Grand Tour

    Derzina hurried from the palace, weaving past its guards, and only slowing when she noticed Mostanto approaching.

    ¡°How was it?¡± he asked, walking with her.

    ¡°Even worse than your master led me to expect. Were she not a god and were this not her city, I would have something unkind to say about her manner.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s probably for the best that you don¡¯t, at least not while there¡¯s a chance of her servants overhearing you.¡±

    ¡°I doubt it would make much difference; she already ejected me from the palace.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d be surprised,¡± Mostanto said, with a sly smile. ¡°She has a particular dislike for people speaking ill of her behind her back and there are far worse fates than simply being barred from the palace.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s first impulse was to insist that even going that far was unfitting for a guardian of humanity, but Inea¡¯s priorities didn¡¯t seem anything like what Derzina would have expected of a god. After having met Inea, it was entirely possible she might punish Derzina over a slight. Imagined or otherwise.

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Thank you for the warning; I shall watch my words more carefully.¡±

    ¡°Good, doing so can only be to your benefit if you choose to remain here. Incidentally, what are you planning on doing next?¡±

    ¡°Waiting for Araveena, I suppose. Her pet told me she¡¯d return to her tower tomorrow; I should be able to meet her then.¡±

    ¡°Then you have nothing further planned for today?¡± Mostanto asked.

    ¡°I only came here to find Araveena. So no, I have no other plans. Why do you ask?¡±

    ¡°I hoped you might allow me to show you around the city, if you find that agreeable.¡±

    Derzina shrugged, she had nothing better to do as she¡¯d just told him. If the citizens of Inea¡¯s city were anything like its ruler, then she had little desire to meet them, but her aversion was not so great that she¡¯d prefer to stand around doing nothing. Besides, the city itself was far from unpleasant to look upon and she wouldn¡¯t mind seeing more of it. It had to be a lot more pleasant than Merstaneon.

    ¡°Sure, lead on. What is there to see around here? Other than the palace, of course.¡±

    ¡°It is quite a sight,¡± Mostanto said. ¡°I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s nothing that can match the palace¡¯s grandeur, but there is still ample charm and beauty to be found within these walls. Especially now that you¡¯ve chosen to grace us with your presence.¡±

    Derzina missed a step and tried to conceal the resulting stumble as best she could. The compliment threw her completely off balance, particularly as it was delivered in such a suave manner.

    ¡°Um, thank you?¡± Derzina said, her mind devoid of meaningful responses.

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± Mostanto said, laughing before continuing smoothly along like nothing happened. ¡°Now let¡¯s see, I suppose the closest place worth seeing would be the palace gardens. How does that sound?¡±

    ¡°That sounds fine to me.¡±

    After a quick stroll down the wide street before the palace, the garden came into view. Between the expansive size and its perfectly manicured appearance, it had much in common with Inea¡¯s residence. Amongst the shrubs and flowers, Derzina couldn¡¯t find a single leaf out of place in the ordered rows.

    There were several people working at various points in the garden, a testament to the sheer work required to maintain it. They pruned and swept, paying no attention to the garden¡¯s only two visitors.

    ¡°Why isn¡¯t there anyone else here?¡± Derzina asked. There was still plenty of daylight left and this was the perfect place for people to enjoy lunch amongst the greenery or for children to frolic.

    ¡°Lady Inea takes quite a dim view to people disrupting her garden, as she does for everything that belongs to her, and most people would rather stay away then risk her wrath.¡±

    ¡°And are we unlike most people in that?¡± Derzina asked. Their aversion seemed perfectly reasonable, and she¡¯d rather not upset Inea any more than she already had.

    ¡°I am, at least.¡±

    ¡°Why is that? Do you not fear her?¡±This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ¡°I do have a healthy respect for her power and authority,¡± Mostanto said, bending over to pluck a flower, ¡°but I trust Xanathel to protect his servants from her when it comes to such a minor matter. Besides, she barely pays her garden any attention. I can¡¯t even remember the last time I heard of her leaving the palace.¡±

    He handed the flower to her, a wide-petalled purple specimen.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, feeling silly for not having any better ways of replying. ¡°Why does she even have a garden then? I imagine it¡¯s a lot of work.¡±

    ¡°To be frank, I have no idea. I do not claim to understand the workings of her mind or her heart, they both seem utterly unknowable.¡±

    They walked through the garden¡¯s lanes, where at the end of each stood a stone likeness of Inea in a variety of heroic poses. Whatever Inea¡¯s intentions, it was clear she had a lot of regard for herself. Were all gods like this? Ortesia had always struck Derzina as humble, but maybe she just hadn¡¯t known the goddess well enough. After a moment¡¯s thought, she shook her head. Even if Ortesia had been vainer than Derzina knew, there wasn¡¯t the slightest chance she was as bad as Inea.

    It wasn¡¯t long before Derzina tired of touring the gardens. They were too ordered for her tastes and knowing what she did about their owner, she found it difficult to appreciate them.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen enough,¡± she said, ¡°what else is there?¡±

    ¡°Brtet still possesses a great many wonders; you have but to follow me and I shall show you the city¡¯s magnificence in its entirety.¡±

    Though Derzina¡¯s limited enthusiasm was waning, she didn¡¯t object to Mostanto¡¯s suggestion. Maybe one of the other locations would be more palatable. They surely couldn¡¯t all be testaments to Inea¡¯s vanity. Departing the garden, Mostanto showed her an array of masterful artworks and magnificent buildings.

    Despite their beauty, they served only to convince her that she¡¯d underestimated Inea. From the innumerable statues and the ever-present depictions upon stonework, she could find no escape from the goddess. This was truly her city, through and through.

    ¡°Does Xanathel live within the city?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    That was what she¡¯d assumed, but it was hard to tell from looking. Despite the exceptionally excessive proof of Inea¡¯s presence, nothing within the city bore Xanathel¡¯s likeness or symbol.

    ¡°I suppose he doesn¡¯t care much for statues and the like? I haven¡¯t seen a single thing of his thus far in your tour.¡±

    ¡°He has little interest in such displays,¡± Mostanto said, ¡°preferring instead to devote his time, and that of his followers, to more gainful endeavours. Though it must be said, Inea is undoubtedly the far more popular of the two.¡±

    It made sense when Derzina thought about it, presumably those who¡¯d made all of Inea¡¯s decorations were followers of hers, but it still surprised her to hear it.

    ¡°She is? Xanathel wasn¡¯t exactly overflowing with charisma when I met him, but why would anyone want to follow Inea?¡±

    ¡°For all her flaws, she has done a lot for the people of Brtet. That, and I believe the dominion she enjoys over the city is at least somewhat attractive to most people. It¡¯s better to be part of something powerful, even if you don¡¯t necessarily agree with what it¡¯s doing, right? I think that¡¯s how her followers must see it.¡±

    ¡°And what about you?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°How do you see it?¡±

    The concept of people choosing a god to follow. and their reasons for doing so, was far more interesting to her than any of the places they¡¯d visited. Of the options she¡¯d seen so far, she would certainly have chosen Ortesia, but the very idea of having an option was new to her. Everyone in Ortesion had been a follower of Ortesia, even if some were not as devote in their service.

    ¡°I have no desire to besmirch her past deeds, I¡¯m sure she was once a fine leader. But her mind is firmly rooted in the past. Xanathel, however, cares about what the future holds for this city and its people.¡±

    Derzina had little difficulty believing Inea was stuck in the past, she was willing to believe a great many negative things of the goddess at this stage, but she¡¯d seen little evidence of Xanathel¡¯s supposedly better intentions.

    ¡°Not to be rude, but if Xanathel is working towards that, how did the current state of the city come to be? Everywhere I look there seems to be only decadence born from wasted effort. Has he done nothing to keep that in check?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s tried. Inea can be exceedingly difficult to work with, as I¡¯m sure you realized from your meeting.¡±

    ¡°Has he truly?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Lurking in armouries to warn others of Inea¡¯s unpleasant nature doesn¡¯t exactly strike me as very proactive.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t argue with that,¡± Mostanto said, smiling. ¡°My lord does greatly prefer to do things in a roundabout fashion wherever possible, often to his own detriment. I may serve him, but I¡¯m well aware of his flaws.¡±

    It was strange for Derzina to hear someone speak so frankly of a god, particularly one they claimed to serve, but she appreciated the honesty. Whatever his god¡¯s faults, Mostanto seemed to have a good head on his shoulders.

    ¡°Good. Then I wish you both luck in improving your city.¡±

    ¡°I take it you don¡¯t have much of an interest in our cause then?¡±

    ¡°To be frank,¡± Derzina said, ¡°no, I don¡¯t. Laudable a goal as improving the city is, my task is far more important to all of humanity. Once it is done, and assuming I survive to see the end, perhaps I may take more of an interest in your city. Until then, well-wishing is all I can offer you.¡±

    ¡°Disparate as our objectives may seem, I think you¡¯ll soon come to realize that they¡¯re quite closely related.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough,¡± Mostanto said, with a smug expression that quickly degenerated into laughter. ¡°I fear I¡¯ve spent too much time in Xanathel¡¯s service; I¡¯m even starting to sound like him.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of Xanathel,¡± he continued, not giving Derzina a chance to press him further on what he¡¯d meant, ¡°I assume you don¡¯t have anywhere to stay tonight?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s correct. Why do you ask?¡±

    ¡°Well it¡¯s getting late, so I thought it would be a good time to extend to you the hospitality of Xanathel¡¯s temple.¡±

    Derzina didn¡¯t feel much like sleeping, but the sun was low in the sky and she had little intention of wandering the streets at night. Hopefully Xanathel¡¯s temple was as understated as his appearance; the gold in which so much of the city was bedecked was starting to give her a headache.

    ¡°Very well, you may show me to this temple. It seems I¡¯ll be in your care for a little while longer.¡±

    ¡°Then I am truly blessed,¡± Mostanto said, turning on his heel and striding off through the fading daylight.

 28 - The Temple of Shadow

    ¡°This is his temple?¡± Derzina asked.

    The two-story stone building with its curved roof before them looked much the same as those crammed either side of it. Not only did it lack in both beauty and grandeur, but there was nothing to indicate that it was a temple or anything of the sort. From what she could see, it was just an ordinary building.

    ¡°One of them. He has a number of temples around the city, which he prefers to keep discreet.¡±

    ¡°Why would he wish to obscure such a thing? Aren¡¯t his temples meant for the people to work in his name and receive his blessing?¡±

    She could see little legitimate reason for such secrecy and it made her wonder if Inea¡¯s supposed paranoia wasn¡¯t justified. What was the point of a temple, if people didn¡¯t know it was one?

    ¡°We make sure that those who need to find such a temple know how to. For everyone else, it¡¯s better than for them and us to keep them in the dark where possible.¡±

    Derzina didn¡¯t much like the sound of that, she believed strongly that being honest was almost always the best policy but she also didn¡¯t claim to understand what living in this city was like. Mostanto and Xanathel seemed sensible enough, so if that was what they¡¯d decided there must be a good reason behind it.

    Though it was becoming increasingly clear that they weren¡¯t willing to share too much of their reasons with her, which was perhaps only reasonable given that they¡¯d just met. Still, she¡¯d thought Xanathel would trust his own mother more. There was probably a lot more to their family than Derzina knew, and she¡¯d rather not pry regarding what was likely a sensitive subject.

    ¡°So Xanathel doesn¡¯t have any problem with me staying here? I¡¯m definitely not one of his followers.¡±

    ¡°I believe he¡¯s happy to make an exception in your case, someone of your unique nature is due far more consideration than ordinary people.¡±

    She wasn¡¯t too comfortable with receiving preferential treatment, but it was also hard to argue that she should be treated the same as the citizens of Brtet. All the more so because she had enough problems already without trying to make things harder for herself.

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you at least ask his permission? Or are you so confident that you know the will of your lord?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m quite confident making decisions like this in his stead. I¡¯ve known him long enough to be able to discern what he would prefer, and I can say without a doubt that he would put his temple at your disposal.¡±

    Then Xanathel was committed to helping them? That wasn¡¯t the way he¡¯d come across when they met him, but perhaps he also liked to keep his true feelings discreet. It was a strange way of acting, particularly for a god, but Derzina was in no place to judge him for it.

    ¡°It appears we owe both you and your master thanks, as we will take him up on his hospitality. At least for a little while; if things go well with Araveena, we shan¡¯t be visiting your city for long.¡±

    ¡°Then I wish you a speedy departure,¡± Mostanto said, smiling as he opened the way into Xanathel¡¯s temple and ushered Derzina inside.

    Stepping beyond the temple¡¯s unassuming exterior, she found the inside to be every bit as ordinary once Mostanto had the lights on. A few pieces of rude furniture and a rug of some coarse material made up the bulk of the decoration, other than that it was mostly bare stone. Xanathel clearly didn¡¯t have much use for luxury, at least as far as his follower¡¯s accommodations went.

    ¡°Where will I be sleeping?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°There¡¯s a few bedrooms upstairs for you to choose from. I understand that you¡¯re probably tired, and may prefer you can go right to bed, but I was hoping to show you around the temple proper before that.¡±

    ¡°Then there¡¯s more to the temple than this? I¡¯d be happy to see it.¡±

    She was faintly relieved to hear the temple contained more than just this terribly mundane interior. Though she didn¡¯t have high hopes, whatever the building had in store had to be more interesting than seeing even more of Inea¡¯s statues.

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t get your hopes up, it¡¯s little better than the rest of the building. Be that as it may, and maybe this is just my vanity talking, but I think it¡¯s worth seeing.¡±

    Kneeling down, Mostanto pulled aside the rug to reveal a trapdoor. Hinges creaking as it was opened, it revealed a series of rungs built into the wall.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go in first then, shall I?¡± Mostanto asked, not waiting for a reply before he climbed downward.

    After his head disappeared beneath the floor, Derzina went over and followed him below. As the light above faded away, it was replaced by dull brownish glow of the stout altar which dominated the subterranean room.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Other than the glow, the only mark upon the square altar¡¯s flat surface was a metal emblem depicting a pitch-black wave. It reminded Derzina of Ortesia¡¯s symbol though it was black instead of gold.

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Derzina said, once she was finished climbing, ¡°it¡¯s really not much to look at.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not, but,¡± Mostanto said, ¡°for me it feels like home.¡± He turned toward her with laughter in his eyes. ¡°Though it¡¯s hardly surprising, given that I was raised in one of his other temples.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡±

    If it was anything like how things were in Ortesion, then the only children raised by the temple were orphans or those from similarly tragic backgrounds. Whatever the reason that Mostanto had ended up there, she thought it best not to dwell on it. He didn¡¯t seem too bothered by the subject, but it could only make things awkward between them given the short duration of their acquaintance.

    ¡°Does anyone else live here?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Not right now, but they do from time to time. Xanathel¡¯s servants tend to keep to themselves unless there¡¯s work to be done or they need somewhere to stay.¡±

    Derzina was glad to hear that she was likely to be alone. Spending time with Mostanto was tiring enough, it would be exhausting if there were more like him around. Though she didn¡¯t much feel like resting, she could still do with some relaxation after her long journey.

    ¡°Is that all then, or can I go to my room now?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Your lack of enthusiasm wounds me. I thought somehow you might feel some measure of wonder looking upon a sacred altar of Xanathel, but I suppose I was na?ve to expect as much. How could one appreciate such a meagre display after the grandiosity that Inea so generously bestows upon the city?¡±

    ¡°I think you¡¯ve misunderstood my position,¡± Derzina said. ¡°Though this isn¡¯t much to look at, I do prefer it over most of Inea¡¯s gaudy ornaments. It¡¯s just that I already have my own god, and I have too much on my mind to have much appreciation for these sorts of things.¡±

    She found it difficult to appreciate anything after the loss of her city, but he didn¡¯t need to hear that. All she wanted to do was ease his disappointment and to do that she would tell him no more than what was required. It¡¯s not as if he¡¯d understand, he still had both his god and his city.

    She tried to tell herself that she was only doing this to help ensure his future cooperation, but the truth was that she found it difficult to tolerate people being upset in front of her when there was something she could do to make them feel better.

    ¡°That makes perfect sense, it was silly of me to expect anything else. I suppose I was just excited to show off my god to an outsider; at least what little there is to show. After all, it¡¯s practically a once in a lifetime opportunity. I hope my thoughtless efforts haven¡¯t done anything to displease you.¡±

    ¡°You can rest easy on that count; you¡¯ve done nothing of the sort. On the contrary, you¡¯ve made me feel exceptionally welcome.¡±

    It was the best welcome she¡¯d received so far, though it wasn¡¯t exactly hard to offer one more pleasant than what she¡¯d experienced in Merstaneon. She imagined even visiting demons would be pleasant compared to the company of Mortsiflor and her devotees.

    ¡°Wonderful,¡± Mostanto said. ¡°Hopefully seeing where you¡¯ll be staying won¡¯t do anything to tarnish your experience thus far, though that might be too much to hope for.¡±

    Despite his words, his tone was light and she smiled politely as they left the altar behind. He closed the trapdoor and covered it, before heading up to the second floor.

    ¡°There¡¯s not a lot of difference,¡± he said, ¡°but this is the largest room we have to offer.¡±

    He pulled opened the door to a modest bedroom with a bed, covered by a tan sheet, with a single pillow. It wasn¡¯t much to look at, but it was clean and that was good enough for Derzina.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine here.¡±

    ¡°Do you need anything else? A change of clothes or a bath perhaps?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s kind of you to offer, but for now I just wish to rest.¡±

    Once she brushed the dirt from her clothes, they should be clean enough. Normally she¡¯d be bothered by her current state and happily taken him up on his offer, but right now it just didn¡¯t seem to matter.

    ¡°Then I shall leave you to rest, have a good night.¡±

    ¡°You too,¡± she said, and with a dip of his head, he left.

    Once the door was closed, Derzina made a perfunctory attempt at cleaning her clothing and lay down on the bed.

    ¡°It appears you had a rather pleasant day,¡± Atasimon said, within Derzina¡¯s head.

    ¡°I did, apart from the meeting with Inea.¡±

    ¡°I doubt I need to remind you, but you haven¡¯t forgotten why we came here, have you?¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Derzina said, a little guiltily.

    Their mission hadn¡¯t truly left her mind for even a second, but it felt wrong to have gotten caught up in things as she had. There had been points where things felt almost normal for the first time since Ortesia fell. Being around humans again brought her a certain degree of peace she¡¯d lacked until she reached Brtet.

    ¡°Good, because we can ill afford to make mistakes. Especially ones born of carelessness.¡±

    ¡°If this was bothering you, why did you not simply bring it up earlier? I didn¡¯t mean to give you the impression that I was taking my duty lightly.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to interrupt. There was nothing wrong with what you were doing, so long it doesn¡¯t affect your focus. Besides, I needed to rest and do some thinking of my own. Seeing my son again, assuming he truly is my son, was difficult.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t pretend to understand what that¡¯s like,¡± Derzina said, ¡°as I¡¯m both a mortal, and have no children of my own. But if you ever want to talk about it, I¡¯d be happy to listen.¡±

    ¡°Thank you. I appreciate the gesture, though I assure you it¡¯s not necessary. Crippled as I may be, I¡¯m still quite capable of handling my own affairs.¡±

    Derzina hadn¡¯t meant to imply that she couldn¡¯t, but arguing would was more likely to upset the goddess to no useful end than accomplish anything. After a little thought, Derzina decided Atasimon was probably right to be annoyed at her suggestion. However well-intentioned she may think herself; she was very much overstepping her bounds.

    Close as they were, she was still only a mortal. What right did she have to question a god? Particularly one who¡¯d shown herself to be rational and capable up to this point; she felt ashamed for ever having said it.

    Staring up at the ceiling, Derzina reflected on the lessons in humility she¡¯d learnt in Ortesia¡¯s service, but all she succeeded in doing was remembering the goddess herself. Tears rolled down her cheeks as sorrow overcame her and she remained still, simply letting them flow.

 29 - Drawing out the Poison

    Jolted awake by the sound of something hard striking the front door, Derzina rolled out of her bed and was surprised to find that it was morning. It felt like she¡¯d closed her eyes just a moment ago, but apparently the night had passed her by. The banging continued with considerable urgency, and she hurried out of the room to see what the fuss was about.

    By the time she left her room, Mostanto was already opening the front door. He was wearing his armour and his sword, though she assumed he must¡¯ve taken them off during the night. The moment the door opened it was forced wide by a gauntleted hand and a soldier in Inea¡¯s colours stormed in, closely followed by three of his fellows.

    ¡°What seems to be the trouble?¡± Mostanto asked, making no move to oppose them.

    ¡°We have come to search this building,¡± the leader said, ¡°on the order of Lady Inea. I swear if you make trouble this time, she will hear of it and see that you are executed for obstructing her servants.¡±

    Mostanto raised his hands. ¡°You¡¯ll find no trouble from me; I would never dream of defying Inea¡¯s will. Assuming this is actually her will, of course.¡±

    ¡°I am a Paladin in the service of Lady Inea, do you doubt my word?¡± the Paladin asked, hand resting on his sword hilt.

    ¡°I know well who you are, Temius, and I don¡¯t doubt your word. I merely find myself confused as to why Lady Inea would wish to violate the sanctuary of Lord Xanathel, her loyal ally.¡±

    ¡°It is not my place to guess at her reasons nor is it yours, I merely serve her will. Temple or not, this building is within her city and she has every right to do as she wishes with it.¡±

    ¡°Is that right?¡± Mostanto asked, tilting his head as Derzina continued to watch from the top of the stairs. ¡°Because the last time I checked Brtet was under the protection of three gods, of which Inea is but one.¡±

    ¡°Your joke is in remarkably poor humour,¡± Temius said, ¡°you and I both know the city would have fallen years ago if it weren¡¯t for Inea. Much as we all appreciate Gorthar¡¯s charity, it does little to keep us safe from our true enemies. Your lord on the other hand is far too busy skulking in the shadows and scheming to do anything to protect us. I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if he was in league with the very demons who seek to destroy us all.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s quite the allegation. I don¡¯t suppose you have any evidence to support it?¡±

    ¡°Not yet,¡± Temius said, brushing past him, ¡°though perhaps we¡¯ll find just that in here.¡±

    ¡°Even if we were involved in such a ridiculous thing, which of course we¡¯re not, we¡¯d never leave something so terribly incriminating for the likes of you to find.¡±

    ¡°Good, then you should have no problem with us searching the place.¡±

    He walked past Mostanto, and his men fanned out behind him. Shaking his head, Mostanto looked up at Derzina and went to meet her.

    ¡°Do you see what we have to deal with?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Do they frequently search your temples then?¡± Derzina asked, watching as the soldiers scoured the ground floor.

    Disrespectful as it was to invade such sacred places, it confused her more than anything. Why would they waste their time raiding a building with so little in it?

    Sighing, Mostanto sat down on the stairs. ¡°From time to time, despite Xanathel¡¯s protests. But their harassment continues far beyond that, they¡¯re always making life difficult for the servants of Xanathel.¡±

    ¡°Why? I can hardly imagine them going to such lengths for no good reason.¡±

    ¡°Then you know little of their nature, their paranoia towards us knows no bounds.¡±

    ¡°Paranoia founded on? You must have done something.¡±

    There had to be some kind of reason, even if it wasn¡¯t a good one. The only other explanation was that they were completely mad, which didn¡¯t fit what she¡¯d seen of them so far. They seemed unpleasant and arrogant, but also of relatively sound mind.

    ¡°I cannot begin to list all the imagined slights and crimes they accuse us of, but there is no truth to any of it. We wish only to be left alone.¡±

    Mostanto had been honest with her so far, and she trusted him more than Inea¡¯s servants, but she felt sure he was leaving something out. This just didn¡¯t add up, yet she had no idea what he might be hiding nor did she wish to interrogate him on the subject with so little to go on.

    ¡°Then I shall leave you to your solitude. Good luck with being searched, and thank you for your hospitality.¡±

    ¡°Any time. Hopefully we¡¯ll see you again before you leave our city for good, assuming your meeting with Araveena goes well. Goodbye.¡±

    Stopping at the door to wave to him, Derzina left the temple behind. Her stay had been pleasant enough, but it was a relief to leave the city¡¯s problems behind and focus on the more pressing issue of Meztraxia. If everything went well, he might be defeated soon.

    On the way, Derzina wondered what Araveena was like. If she was similar to Erstanos then it may be difficult to get her to cooperate. But surely she¡¯d be more helpful than that if she was working with the humans.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Assuming she really was working with them; for all Derzina knew Araveena was only aligned with Inea. And if they were similar, then this meeting might go rather poorly. Derzina shook off her worries, and decided she¡¯d just have to be careful. Whatever the wizard was like, Derzina still needed their help.

    After a considerable amount of walking and a few wrong turns, Derzina reached the outer wall and was carried over it by Atasimon¡¯s shadows. From there it wasn¡¯t long before she was back at Araveena¡¯s tower. Though it looked the same as last time she¡¯d seen it, its simplicity was refreshing after the visual ordeal that was Brtet¡¯s architecture.

    Spying the mechanical bird she¡¯d spoken to last time in the window, Derzina called out to it.

    ¡°It¡¯s me again, is Araveena back yet?¡±

    ¡°The master has returned. Would you like me to fetch her for you?¡±

    ¡°Please,¡± Derzina said, and the bird flew inside.

    She was drawing circles in the dirt with her foot when the tower¡¯s door opened and a short woman wearing a light blue robe stepped out.

    ¡°You¡¯re Atasimon then?¡± she asked, looking Derzina over.

    ¡°In a manner of speaking. My name is Derzina, but Atasimon dwells within me. Are you Araveena?¡±

    ¡°I am. Inea warned me about you, she told me you were most disrespectful.¡±

    Derzina flinched as if struck, what had Inea said about her? If she¡¯d poisoned Araveena against them, then coming here might have all been for nought.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what she told you, but I intended no disrespect. Though my word likely doesn¡¯t mean much to you, I swear I did not mean to insult her.¡±

    ¡°Few mean to,¡± Araveena said, speaking softly, ¡°and yet it¡¯s practically a daily occurrence. Why do you think that is?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ve only just arrived in the city and have little insight to offer on such a matter.¡± She had almost no knowledge of Inea, so it seemed best to answer diplomatically.

    ¡°I appreciate your tact, but humour me for a moment and tell me your impression of Inea. Be honest, I will not hold it against you, nor repeat what you have said to anyone.¡±

    Derzina took a moment to breathe and organise her thoughts, trying to process all that she had seen within Brtet. ¡°From my meeting with her, it seemed as if she were looking for a reason to be offended. I know my manners aren¡¯t perfect, and maybe things are even more different here than I supposed, but I¡¯ve never had someone take such offense at my words.¡±

    ¡°And what do you think of how she governs the city? From what you saw.¡±

    That was a subject Derzina had a more definite opinion on and she decided to speak her mind without any regard to etiquette. ¡°Everywhere I looked,¡± Derzina said, looking into Araveena¡¯s dark eyes, ¡°there was naught but waste. From the buildings and statues to the gardens. Even the soldiers seem to spend more time accommodating her whims than doing anything productive.¡±

    Araveena smiled, her eyes brightening with humour. ¡°It¡¯s refreshing to hear frank speech for once. Between Inea and the sycophants she calls her advisors, I¡¯d almost forgotten what it sounds like. Come, let us speak further inside.¡±

    Derzina followed her into the tower to a room just beyond the door. Small and dusty, it contained an ancient looking set of two wooden chairs with a matching table.

    ¡°Sorry,¡± Araveena said, dusting off the chair closest to Derzina with her robe, ¡°I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t get many visitors these days, and I¡¯ve let the place become a bit of a mess.¡±

    ¡°If I may continue to speak honestly,¡± Derzina said, sitting down, ¡°I don¡¯t mind at all. I¡¯ve travelled a long way to get here; a little dust is of no concern to me.¡±

    ¡°From where have you come?¡± Araveena asked eagerly, taking the other chair.

    ¡°I travelled here from Ortesion. You may not have heard of it; it¡¯s a city to the south. Or at least it was.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard of it, though my business has never brought me that far south. What do you mean by ¡®was¡¯?¡±

    ¡°It fell, along with Ortesia and all the people who lived there, at the hands of a Demon Lord named Meztraxia and his army.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s terrible news. How was he able to breach the city¡¯s defences?¡±

    ¡°From what Erstanos told us, Meztraxia stole the power of a device called the Heart of Imistala. He also said that depriving Meztraxia of its strength would require someone with a great deal of expertise with magic and suggested that you would be suitable for such a role.¡±

    ¡°Did he now?¡± Araveena asked, amused. ¡°I suppose it¡¯s a reasonable choice, though I wish he¡¯d just done it himself. Especially when it¡¯s his creation that¡¯s causing the problem in the first place, but I suppose it would be too much to ask for him to take any responsibility.¡±

    Derzina had a little trouble following Araveen¡¯s outburst, but it seemed she was familiar with Erstanos. Hopefully that would work in their favour, it certainly made convincing her about the heart¡¯s importance easier.

    ¡°Are you willing to help us then? If left unchecked, he¡ª¡°

    ¡°I understand,¡± Araveena interrupted, ¡°I¡¯ll do what I can to help. Though I think Erstanos has rather overstated the simplicity of removing the heart.¡±

    ¡°How do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Though I¡¯m sure I can unravel his magic, it will take time and my complete concentration. I assume you can imagine the difficulty that would entail, especially when we¡¯re dealing with a Demon Lord.¡±

    Derzina was all too familiar with how dangerous Meztraxia could be, she¡¯d never expected this to be easy no matter what she was told.

    ¡°I can imagine, but are you willing to try despite that?¡±

    Araveena fidgeted in her chair, tugging at the sleeve of her robe. ¡°Is it truly of such importance that we deprive him of the heart? It would require me to take a terrible risk.¡±

    ¡°If he is not stopped, there is no doubt in my mind that more cities will fall by his hand while he only grows all the more powerful. It will be a terrible blow to humanity if he is allowed to continue, he might even wipe us out entirely by the time it¡¯s all over.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Araveena said, spending a few moments inspecting Derzina before sighing. ¡°Then I suppose I will do my part. Though the question of how we are going to contain him long enough for me to work still remains. We¡¯d need quite a lot of help to manage it, unless you have far more resources than I assume.¡±

    Derzina was about to say she had no idea what they should do, when Atasimon spoke in her place. ¡°I can lure him here. Myself and the three gods of this city are probably our best chance of stopping him.¡±

    ¡°Lure him?¡± Araveena asked. ¡°As in get him to attack the city?¡±

    ¡°Precisely.¡±

    ¡°If he¡¯s as dangerous as you say, we¡¯ll be putting a lot of people at risk.¡±

    ¡°I realize that, but it¡¯s still preferable to alternative. He¡¯s a danger to humanity so long as he has the heart.¡±

    ¡°Inea will never agree to this,¡± Araveena said, biting her lip.

    ¡°Probably, though you¡¯d know better than I. But I don¡¯t mean to ask for her permission. Best that they fight to defend their city without knowing what brought Meztraxia here.¡±

    ¡°I really don¡¯t like that idea.¡±

    ¡°Neither do I, yet it is the best way I can conceive and thus it is what we shall do. It¡¯s quite possibly the only way.¡±

    Rubbing her forehead, Araveena looked down at her feet. ¡°I don¡¯t know, I can¡¯t agree to something like this without spending more time thinking about it.¡±

    ¡°As you wish,¡± Atasimon said, standing up. ¡°But whatever you decide, he¡¯s on his way.¡±

 30 - Divine Provocation

    Meztraxia was looking over a map of the region, trying to divine which city would be the best target to strike at, when wisps of shadow wafted out from beneath his clothing. Assuming it to be another of the godling¡¯s meagre tricks, he waved them away and continued his work. He was staring down at the table, planning a route, when something closed around his neck.

    His hands immediately went to his throat, clawing at the shadows as they constricted. The shadows parted before his fingers, causing his nails to gouge into his own flesh without weakening the magic¡¯s hold. Already starting to black out, he summoned a line of tiny soldiers around his own neck and set them to destroying the shadow. It still tried to evade and maintain its hold, but attacked from all sides it had no choice to disperse and Meztraxia fell to his knees gasping.

    As he was struggling to get his breath back and clutching at his windpipe, the shadows renewed their assault. Avoiding his protective ring of soldiers, the darkness poured into his ears and open mouth. Overwhelmed, Meztraxia abandoned all semblance of effective resistance and thrashed madly on the ground to no avail. After a brief struggle, as brutal as it was ineffectual, the darkness claimed him.

    The next thing he knew, he was surrounded by shadow, but for a dim purple light hovering in the air before him. It illuminated the emptiness around him as well as an image of the goddess of shadow he¡¯d fought, formed of her namesake.

    The strikingly accurate figure stared daggers at him and said, ¡°I will kill you eventually, I swear it.¡±

    ¡°Your efforts are admirable,¡± Meztraxia said, returning the look, ¡°but ultimately inconsequential. You and your people will perish, and there is nothing you can do to stop it. I am beyond your petty magics now.¡± He felt the very strength she¡¯d brought against him slowing becoming part of him as well along with a new understanding within him. He had some sense of the goddess herself, allowing him to sense just how depleted she was. She would not threaten him again any time soon, perhaps ever.

    But there was more to it than that, he could also sense her location. The thrill of victory rushed through him at her foolish ploy being turned back on her in such a manner, only for him to realise this must be exactly what she¡¯d intended. Why else would she have risked this? Surely she knew she was no match for him by now.

    ¡°A clever scheme,¡± he said, ¡°but you will not lure me so easily. Your time will come, after I¡¯ve taken the essence of a few more gods for my own.¡±A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°Are you truly so afraid to face a crippled god on your own?¡±

    The taunt was so obvious it almost made him laugh, was this all the godling had left to offer? Insults more befitting a child than a god? ¡°Please, spare me your transparent provocations. I have nothing to prove to you, I¡¯ve already shown you the inevitability of your doom. Our battle will be at a time and place of my choosing, unless you¡¯ve the courage to seek me out on your own. Something which I doubt very much.¡±

    The goddess smiled. ¡°You seem awfully sure of your control of the situation. Where do you think we are right now?¡±

    ¡°I imagine it¡¯s some manner of illusory realm you¡¯ve constructed as part of your pathetic little gambit,¡± Meztraxia said, unsure of what she was getting at. Was this simply an attempt at throwing him off balance?

    ¡°A reasonable assumption, but it is nothing of the sort.¡± The goddess spread her arms wide. ¡°We are within you, specifically the part of your essence that you stole from me.¡±

    ¡°If you say so.¡± It didn¡¯t matter what she said and she would soon be unable to keep him here any longer, he was surprised she¡¯d managed as long as she had. ¡°Assuming what you say is true, then I congratulate you on your first and only victory over me. May it bring you much joy in your final days. Are we almost done here? I¡¯ve an army to command and cities to put to the sword.¡±

    ¡°Then I shan¡¯t waste any more of my time or yours,¡± she said, with a vicious smirk.

    Before he had time to analyse what she might mean, the only source of light went out and he was plunged into darkness. For all the goddess¡¯ theatrics, he assumed she¡¯d simply given up the fight and he¡¯d soon be back in the real world. However, he remained where he was and felt a foreign presence emerge within his mind. It came not from without, but from the portion of his being that once belonged to the goddess of shadow.

    Outraged at this instruction, Meztraxia lashed out mentally and tried to crush this invader by force of will alone. For all his efforts, he may as well have been trying to tear out his own mind. The other consciousness within him remained as it was, unaffected and simply there. Even without it actually doing anything, the profound invasion of his very self was maddening.

    The darkness around him faded, and he found himself back on solid ground, but it did nothing to dispel his unease. This new part of him was still there, he could already feel it eating away at his mind as its influence grew ever so slowly. He clenched his fists; this could not be allowed to happen. The goddess could not be allowed to take over, not now or ever.

    There was a good chance she wouldn¡¯t even be capable of that much, but he simply couldn¡¯t risk it. There was only one thing to do; hunt her down and rip the last of her essence from her as soon as he could. He could sense where she was, all the remained was to do exactly as she hoped and pursue her. Foolish as he felt for being manipulated by her like this, the heart would soon show her the folly of opposing them.

 31 - The Final Step

    Derzina sat in the dirt, out of sight of Brtet¡¯s walls. After all their work, everything was abruptly coming together. Now they were close to the was the final and most difficult stage of their task; defeating Meztraxia.

    ¡°Do you really think the other three gods will be willing to work together with us?¡± she asked, within her mind.

    ¡°They have no choice,¡± Atasimon said. ¡°If they wish to survive, then they will work with us one way or another. The same goes for Araveena.¡±

    ¡°Still, was there truly no better way to do this? It feels wrong to force their hand like this.¡±

    ¡°The wrong and right of it are irrelevant. Either we force them or put ourselves at the mercy of their bickering, and humanity deserves better than that. Now let me rest, I feel on the verge of disappearing.¡±

    Derzina didn¡¯t agree, but she also didn¡¯t have any other suggestions to offer. Like it or not, Meztraxia was on his way. Deciding that she owed it to her city to do make the best of this opportunity, Derzina got to her feet and marched toward Brtet. If they were going to persuade the gods, then there was no place for hesitation.

    She was over the walls when it occurred to her that she didn¡¯t know where to start; none of the gods were likely to be easy to win over. Inea was the only one she knew how to find easily, but she was also the one least likely to listen to her and Derzina knew almost nothing about Gorthar. Which left Xanathel; he was as good a place to start as any.

    ¡°Excuse me,¡± she called, hailing a townsperson walking near the wall, ¡°do you know where I can find Lord Xanathel?¡±

    The woman¡¯s eyes widened and she walked quickly in the other direction. A little thrown by the woman¡¯s reaction, Derzina continued her search, but none of the other citizens or soldiers proved anymore helpful. Each responded with either fear or hostility and she soon gave up.

    Was the negative perception of Xanathel solely Inea¡¯s doing? It seemed far more likely that the god himself was to blame. Either way, how could humans distrust a god so? He was supposed to be one of their inviolable guardians, yet few seemed to have any faith in him.

    Derzina was initially hesitant to press for answers given how reticent people were to talk about Xanathel at all, but there was too much at stake for her to allow such niceties to dictate her actions. Opting to avoid the soldiers wearing Inea¡¯s colours, she instead sought out a middle-aged woman who seemed to be in no particular hurry.

    ¡°Hello there,¡± Derzina said.

    ¡°Hello,¡± the woman said, smiling politely at her.

    ¡°My name is Derzina and I¡¯ve only just recently arrived here. Do you think you could answer a few questions?¡±

    ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re Derzina.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve heard of me?¡± Derzina asked, blinking in surprise. She¡¯d only arrived yesterday.

    ¡°Of course, you¡¯re the talk of the town. We don¡¯t exactly get many new arrivals around here.¡±

    Though unexpected, it might actually be to her benefit if the people here already knew her. ¡°Then would you mind if I asked you a few things?¡±

    ¡°I probably shouldn¡¯t be talking to you,¡± the woman said, taking a step back. ¡°They say Lady Inea had you thrown out of the palace, best that I not get involved.¡±

    Derzina put her hand on the woman¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°I realize what they¡¯re saying about me probably doesn¡¯t sound too great, but I¡¯m really trying to help your city and I could use your help. Please, it will only take a few moments.¡±

    ¡°Well, I suppose I could answer a few questions,¡± the townswoman said reluctantly, her expression fearful.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Derzina said, releasing her. ¡°First of all, why do you all seem to have such distaste for Xanathel? Is he not one of your gods?¡±

    ¡°One of mine?¡± The older woman looked appalled at the idea. ¡°He¡¯s no god to me, he¡¯s little better than a villain.¡±

    ¡°What did he do to deserve such a reputation?¡±

    ¡°The better question would be what didn¡¯t he do. He stole from her, threatened her servants, defaced her temple. In my view it¡¯s only due to Lady Inea¡¯s benevolence that he hasn¡¯t been exiled from the city altogether, though it seems like only a matter of time from the way things are going.¡±

    If what she was saying was true, and it certainly seemed to be what the common people thought, then things were worse here than had Derzina assumed.

    ¡°Be that as it may, I need to find him. Do you have any idea where he might be? This concerns the safety of the city.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve not the faintest idea and I¡¯m quite happy to keep it that way, thank you very much. No honest citizen would know his whereabouts, I doubt those loonies who follow him know most of the time. Now, if that¡¯s all you want to know I¡¯d best get going.¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    It seemed clear the woman wouldn¡¯t be able to tell her anything more of value and Derzina would rather not detain her unnecessarily. ¡°That¡¯s all. Thank you, you¡¯ve been a great help.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. I know it¡¯s not my place to say, but you¡¯d best steer clear of Xanathel. He¡¯ll only bring you trouble.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best,¡± Derzina said, giving the woman a little wave as she walked away.

    Heeding the woman¡¯s advice would certainly be easier, but Derzina needed to find him. Even if he wouldn¡¯t help her, she had to at least tell him what was going on. Finding his temple would help, if only she knew where it was. It was unremarkable enough that if she were on back on the same street, she wasn¡¯t sure she¡¯d recognise it.

    At a loss for how to find him, Derzina headed for the palace instead. They¡¯d have to meet with Inea sooner or later, she may as well get it out of the way now. If by some miracle Inea was willing to listen, she might even help Derzina contact the other two gods. It was a nice thought, though it seemed more likely she¡¯d bar Derzina from the palace or worse.

    Making her way through the city, Derzina was approaching the palace only for the crowds to grow thicker until traffic was at a standstill. There was a general buzz of excitement around here, but it didn¡¯t seem like anything was happening. At least not yet.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Derzina asked, addressing a soldier standing within the crowd.

    ¡°Lady Inea is going to make an announcement,¡± he said, glancing at her before going back to peering through the crowd in the direction of the Palace.

    ¡°About what?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but it¡¯s bound to be something important. Probably something to do with that outsider who arrived yesterday.¡±

    He glanced back at her again, looking alarmed but Derzina was already backing away. There was no easy way to get through the crowd without Atasimon¡¯s magic, and Derzina was going to be without the goddess¡¯ divine assistance for a while. She was thinking of what else she could do, when Inea¡¯s voice rung out across the city.

    ¡°Citizens of Brtet,¡± she proclaimed, ¡°I have grave news I must impart to you. As I speak, a vast army of demons marches upon our city, intent on our destruction.¡±

    Inea paused and the cluster of humanity before Derzina collectively grasped or cried out.

    ¡°For the sake of the city¡¯s defence,¡± Inea continued, ¡°Xanathel and Gorthar, along with their followers, shall be under my direct command until such time as the crisis has passed. In these troubles times we must stand resolute and unified, rather than allow petty conflicts to weaken us.¡±

    The crowd murmured amongst itself, as a great many men and women discussed the announcement with their neighbours. Though Derzina could make out little of what was being said over the general level of noise, by the sound of it, they seemed encouraged by Inea taking charge.

    ¡°My Paladins and I are working tirelessly to finalise our plan to defend the city, and I shall make another announcement when everything has been decided. In the meantime, return to your homes and report to your local militia commander for duty.¡±

    Inea¡¯s voice faded and everyone started to disperse, talking amongst each other at a frantic pace as they did so.

    ¡°Now do you see what she¡¯s like?¡± Mostanto asked, stepping out of the mob to stand beside her.

    ¡°Do you have some problem with defending your home?¡± Derzina replied, moving to avoid the flow of people toward her while Mostanto followed along.

    ¡°No, but she¡¯s just using that as an excuse. Assuming there¡¯s an army coming at all.¡±

    ¡°There is, without a doubt.¡±

    ¡°Oh?¡± Mostanto asked, as they left the crowd behind. ¡°And how do you know that?¡±

    ¡°I had just discovered it myself while I was talking with Araveena and came to deliver the news to Inea, though it appears the news preceded me. I tried to reach Xanathel first, but no one was willing to help me find him. He¡¯s certainly not popular amongst the people.¡±

    Mostanto shrugged. ¡°Xanathel has other priorities than trying to win over the people with empty gestures and promises.¡±

    ¡°Is working together to protect the city one of these empty gestures?¡±

    ¡°We will protect our home, but we will do it on our terms. Who is Inea to dictate how we should live our lives?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s your goddess, does that mean nothing to you?¡±

    ¡°At this point? No, not really. I never chose to be born here or for her to rule over us, why should I meekly suffer beneath her divine thumb?¡±

    Mostanto¡¯s voice grew progressively louder as he spoke until he was shouting, and Derzina found herself taken aback. In the short time she¡¯d known him, he¡¯d been quite calm even when his temple was raided, but Inea¡¯s announcement appeared to have crossed a line.

    ¡°What is it you¡¯re worried she¡¯ll force you to do?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no one particular thing I¡¯m worried about,¡± Mostanto said, lowering his voice, ¡°it¡¯s more a matter of principle. Besides, she¡¯s sure to screw us over somehow. Whether it be putting us in the most dangerous position or trying to keep us out of the fighting entirely so she can take all the glory.¡±

    ¡°Do you really think she¡¯d do something like that?¡± It sounded ridiculous that anyone would even consider such a thing in the face of such a terrible threat.

    ¡°I see you still don¡¯t understand the depths of Inea¡¯s arrogance. Did you learn nothing from touring the city?¡±

    ¡°I learnt that she wastes a lot of time and resources on building things to appease her vanity, but nothing of her being willing to endanger her city for the sake of pride.¡±

    She paused for a moment as she considered her next words. Though she didn¡¯t wish to upset him unnecessarily, she decided it was important for her to speak her mind.

    ¡°I am, however,¡± she said, ¡°starting to have my doubts about you on that count. And the god you serve, if he supports such a course. Can you not simply set aside your animosity until the city is safe again?¡±

    ¡°It is not our animosity, justified as it is, that¡¯s the cause of this,¡± Mostanto spat, baring his teeth. ¡°If all she wanted was our cooperation, then she had only to ask, but we are not her slaves to be commanded.¡±

    Sword swinging at his belt, Mostanto stomped off and Derzina simply watched him go. It seemed a miracle to her that Xanathel and Inea had managed to tolerate each other for so long if this was all it took to drive a rift between them, especially when there was so much more at stake.

    How could gods be so selfish? They were behaving worse than children. Once she¡¯d believed they were better than mortals; wiser and more just, but that just wasn¡¯t true. For all their power, they were very bit as fallible as humans. Much as it pained her to admit it, the same applied even to Ortesia. If she hadn¡¯t been so reckless as to go forth and face the Demon Lord alone, then her city might still be standing and Derzina would be safe at home with her family.

    But it had happened, and there was nothing anyone could do to change that. Drawing herself up, Derzina renewed her determination that it would never happen again. She¡¯d see to it that Brtet¡¯s gods kept their city safe, starting with Inea. Their last meeting had been disastrous, but it would go better this time. It had to.

 32 - Cruel Reality

    Wading through the tide of humanity, most of whom were heading away from the palace, Derzina reached the grounds before the colossal structure. Awe-inspiring as it been when she first laid eyes on it, now it only served to agitate her. She could only see it as a symbol of divine arrogance and the disregard they had for other people; mortals and gods alike.

    Derzina walked up to the nearest guard outside the palace and said, ¡°I need to speak with Lady Inea.¡±

    The woman looked Derzina over and replied, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one she threw out yesterday?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±

    Shifting uncomfortably on the spot, the guard looked down as she spoke. ¡°And you still want to see her? Even if you do, I doubt she wants to speak with you.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, but I must speak with her. Tell her that I have important information regarding the coming attack.¡±

    After a short pause the guard nodded and hurried toward the palace. Left to wait, Derzina looked around at the other guards to pass the time, but none of them would meet her eyes. There was none of the excitement of her first visit to the palace, now Derzina was just another person out of favour with Inea. A list which seemed to grow longer by the day.

    However, that would all change soon enough. She was going to win over Inea, at least enough for her to work with Atasimon and the other gods on more equal footing. Then the people of Brtet would see that Derzina was only trying to help them.

    Eventually the same guard returned, walking quickly out of the palace and toward Derzina. ¡°Lady Inea will see you now.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Derzina said, allowing the guard to escort her to the palace¡¯s front entrance where they left her to enter alone.

    Taking a deep breath, Derzina stepped inside to find Inea already waiting for her. The goddess¡¯ long dress was gone, in its place she wore a jewel encrusted suit of plate armour with a long silver cape draped over the back of her throne. Each of the green individual plates was a work of art, bearing intricate symbols etched in silver.

    ¡°I had not thought to see you again,¡± Inea said, once the door was closed and they were cut off from the outside world. ¡°Did I not make my displeasure clear in our last meeting?¡± Though she sneered at Derzina, her voice spoke more of exhaustion than rage.

    ¡°You did, but as I said to your servant, I have important information.¡±

    ¡°Information which you could have freely given to them rather than wasting my time; something which you continue to do. So, tell me, what do you want?¡±

    ¡°I want the same thing we all do; to protect this city from the demons who seek to destroy it. And to do that, I need you and the other gods to stop all this nonsense and work together as equals.¡±

    Inea drummed her fingers on the armchair of her throne, looking down at Derzina in irritation. ¡°I don¡¯t know what nonsense you¡¯re insinuating; I have done nothing but try to work with them. Now more than ever.¡±

    ¡°Then why do you insist that they must work under your command? They would surely serve the city better if allowed to act of their own free will. It would certainly make Xanathel more willing to help.¡±

    ¡°Would they? Like they have all these years they¡¯ve wasted in their own frivolous pursuits? Would you have me stake the lives of all my people on the whims of a dotard and a crook?¡±

    Though Derzina had intended to keep a level head and try to persuade Inea, she simply could not let such a comment pass. ¡°I do not mean to lecture you on your own people, but how can you in good conscience speak of frivolity when we stand within this enormous palace of yours? I¡¯ve never seen such a monument to arrogance and waste.¡±

    ¡°I see Atasimon did not choose you as a vessel for your wisdom or your foresight,¡± Inea said icily. ¡°My palace, along with all the works with which I have graced this city, exists to inspire my people and bring them together. In everyday life, and especially in times of crisis, as we now find ourselves.¡±

    ¡°And how, precisely, does plastering your face across the city help to bring people together?¡±

    Rising from her throne, Inea descended the steps until she was level with Derzina. The goddess looked her in the eye and when she spoke once more, the anger was gone. In its place was respect, even reverence tinged with sorrow.

    ¡°People need something to believe in. It gives them purpose, makes them better than they are. All I have ever done is try to give them that, difficult as it is in this blighted world that we¡¯ve made for ourselves. Not that I¡¯d expect you to understand that, none of the other gods seem to be able to grasp it either.¡±Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    Inea was right, Derzina didn¡¯t understand it and she wasn¡¯t sure she believed it either, though Inea seemed to. Did humanity really need such a thing? She wasn¡¯t certain they did, but then again, what was her life without Ortesia?

    She¡¯d devoted most of it to her city¡¯s protector, it had defined her whole life. Without that goddess to follow what would she have become? What was she now for that matter? Derzina found herself at a loss, both on how to answer her own questions and what she could say to Inea.

    Nothing she said seemed to reach the goddess, who clearly had her own very strong ideas about how the world worked. It probably should have come as no surprise, to her Derzina was a mere child. A mortal child at that. Inea wouldn¡¯t listen to the gods who¡¯d ruled this city with her for so many years, why had Derzina thought she might listen to a mortal interloper?

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I don¡¯t understand it or your city. Even still, I implore you to reconsider forcing the other gods and their followers to serve you. This course will only serve to foster anger and distrust among them.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps,¡± Inea said. ¡°Or it may demonstrate to them the benefits of my rule, which so many have already come to appreciate. This is the perfect opportunity for them to learn the strengths of unity. I¡¯ve often thought I was too lenient with them and now that shall be rectified. If they have any regard for the city and the safety of its people, they will fall in line.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t just force them to obey, do you care nothing for their freedom?¡±

    ¡°There was a time where I did,¡± Inea said, looking upward, ¡°before the merging. That freedom is what has brought us to where we are now; prisoners within our own cities at the mercy of the demons that roam free over what was once our home. Freedom does not make one happy or prosperous, it merely allows mistakes to happen. Mistakes like people wasting their whole lives to no purpose. Through following my will, my followers have all been spared such an ignoble fate.¡±

    Face to face with Inea¡¯s cold yet beautiful visage, framed by her long dark hair, Derzina understood why people followed her. The goddess possessed vision and the strength to see that vision realized, yet Derzina could see nothing for herself within the goddess¡¯ ambitions.

    Inea wished for a world where humanity was bent to her will, ostensibly for their own good. For all its supposed benefits, it was a fate Derzina would not wish upon anyone she¡¯d ever known. If you weren¡¯t free to live as you chose, what was even the point? Were you even a person then? They would be little better off than the people of Merstaneon, whose lives were defined by their own ruler and her ideas of how people should be.

    Derzina wished Atasimon were awake, perhaps the goddess would better be able to grasp the true scope and implications of Inea¡¯s ideas. Painfully aware of her own failure to do so as Derzina was, she rejected them on a fundamental level. She was certain that all Ortesia had ever wanted her for followers was for them to be what they thought was their best, not what the goddess decided for them.

    While Derzina stood there deep in thought, Inea returned to her throne. Once she was seated, straight-backed and proud, she gave Derzina almost a pitying look. ¡°I thought there was the slightest chance that you might understand, but for all your experience with the outside, world and the divine you¡¯re no different than the others. No more than a lost little person in a vast world.¡±

    Derzina thought it most strange that the goddess might pity her, given that she felt much the same way about Inea. ¡°I never claimed to be anything more. I¡¯m a simple woman, I know that, but even I can see what you¡¯re doing is wrong. You speak of mortals being lost, yet you are the most lost of all. I can scarcely imagine the path that brought you to the point where you seek to control humanity rather than protect it.¡±

    ¡°Imagine?¡± Inea asked, answering her own question with a furious shake of her head. ¡°Whatever you are imagining isn¡¯t even close to the reality of it. I doubt even I could have imagined what would happen during the merging.¡±

    Inea seemed to look straight though Derzina as she continued, ¡°I heard that Meztraxia destroyed your city. How much of the destruction did you see?¡±

    ¡°Enough.¡±

    ¡°You saw your people butchered before you while their homes lay broken?¡±

    Derzina swallowed as sorrow welled up anew within her. ¡°I did.¡±

    ¡°Such sights were commonplace during the great war, that¡¯s precisely why we resorted to such extreme measures. But what we brought about was worse than any war. Entire continents were snuffed out in an instant, and the world we once knew was gone forever. We just wanted to put an end to the war. Instead, we nearly destroyed mankind and ourselves.¡±

    Inea blinked and just like that she was staring at Derzina, instead of the past. ¡°Nothing like that can ever happen again if we are to survive, I won¡¯t allow it. What¡¯s left of humanity will work together under my leadership and we will take this new world for our own. Is that not the worthiest of aims?¡±

    Hearing both the hope and absolute conviction with which Inea spoke made Derzina¡¯s heart ache. There was such determination and righteous intent within the goddess, yet it was utterly misplaced.

    ¡°There are parts of it that I agree with,¡± Derzina said, ¡°but on the whole I still believe you are wrong. Unity cannot be forced.¡±

    ¡°You are solely mistaken on that point. My city is a testament to the virtues of my method. Do you think any of my followers wanted to serve me as they do? Always working for the benefit of the city, rather than themselves? Of course not, humans are too selfish for that. And yet, despite their natural inclinations, they obey me and are better for it. The entire world is better for it.¡±

    Derzina almost wanted to cry out of frustration and powerlessness; nothing she said was getting through to Inea in the slightest. Which, as she was increasingly coming to realize, was exactly what she should have expected.

    Of course Inea wasn¡¯t going to discard everything she¡¯d learnt over the past century, especially when her methods had achieved such success. If Derzina was going to change her mind, then she would have to demonstrate to the goddess the error of her ways.

    ¡°It is as you say,¡± Derzina said. ¡°I would like to take my leave, if you will permit it, my lady. It appears you have already heard all I know about the threat Meztraxia poses; thus, it would be best that I didn¡¯t take up anymore of your valuable time.¡±

    ¡°Then go,¡± Inea said, not sounding convinced in the slightest by Derzina¡¯s sudden turn. ¡°But remember what I have told you here today. If we are to triumph over the demons, it will be through enacting my vision.¡±

    Bowing her head in deference, Derzina strode out of the palace.

 33 - Last Resort

    Derzina was walking down one of the side streets near the palace when Xanathel stepped from the shadows ahead. ¡°I did not expect you to seek Inea¡¯s company so readily after your last visit, have you decided to submit to her rule like a good little mortal?¡±

    ¡°Hardly, I¡¯ve never been more resolute in my opposition of her. I was a fool not to listen to your servant when he told me of her nature. I suppose I just didn¡¯t want to believe someone like that could be in control of this city. It seems almost too terrible a fate to countenance.¡±

    ¡°Oh? And what prompted this sudden change of heart?¡± Xanathel arched an eyebrow, clearly doubtful.

    ¡°I spoke with her in depth this time. My previous visit was perfunctory at best. It was more of a show of manners, or lack thereof on my part, than anything of substance. I don¡¯t know what came over her today, perhaps the approaching demon army has greatly unsettled her mind, but she told me everything of her intentions. Of how she wishes absolute authority over not just the city, but all of humanity and our gods.¡±

    ¡°I suppose it does sound hard to believe when you put it that way,¡± Xanathel said, chuckling. ¡°But absurd as it may seem, you have the right of it.¡±

    ¡°Had you told me what I¡¯ve learnt earlier,¡± Derzina said, ¡°I certainly would have thought it absurd and yet, after speaking with her I do not doubt it one bit. Inea is utterly convinced that her way is the only way.¡±

    ¡°Though I¡¯m sure it must have been a painful revelation, I¡¯m glad that you finally see the truth. Does this mean you are willing to support our opposition of her?¡±

    ¡°If you will have me, then absolutely. I will do all that I can to free this city from its bonds.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful. Come with me, we¡¯ve not a moment to lose.¡±

    He set a rapid pace through the city, at points forcing Derzina to run to keep up. All the while, she was keenly aware that everyone saw who she was with and made note, yet none seemed to be willing to look directly at her.

    Normally the attention would have made her uncomfortable, but now she wanted them to see. And it seemed Xanathel wanted the same thing, she couldn¡¯t imagine that he typically moved through the city in such a conspicuous manner.

    After a long journey from the palace, Xanathel led her to a large townhouse and knocked on the door.

    ¡°My lord?¡± came the startled reply a few moments later, as a finely dressed man with greying hair opened the door. ¡°You do me a most unexpected pleasure, I had not the slightest concept that I would be so honoured as to receive your august presence. May I ask what has brought you to my humble home?¡± Despite his honied words, he seemed agitated and he was clearly looking past them to see who else was watching.

    ¡°I take it you heard Inea¡¯s announcement,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°I¡¯ve had to accelerate our plans; discretion is of no more use to us.¡±

    Xanathel stepped inside and Derzina went with him.

    ¡°No more use, my lord?¡± the man asked, closing the door the moment they were both inside and showing them to a set of plush chairs arranged around a low table. ¡°I do not mean to doubt your wisdom, but if I were to act overtly, Lady Inea would have me arrested before the day is done.¡±

    ¡°She can try. If our luck holds, she¡¯ll be too otherwise occupied to deal with us. If not, then we shall have to resort to other means.¡±

    Xanathel sat down, beckoning for Derzina to do likewise while Xanathel¡¯s associate paced the length of the room.

    ¡°I take it you¡¯ve succeeded in winning Derzina over then, my lord?¡± he asked, glancing in her direction.

    ¡°Not quite. She realized the merits of our cause largely on her own, it seems Inea is a far better advocate for our cause against her than I could ever hope to be.¡±

    ¡°If I might interject,¡± Derzina said, feeling overwhelmed and finally able to get a word in edgewise, ¡°I don¡¯t believe we¡¯ve been introduced.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°it appears I¡¯m getting ahead of myself.¡± He gestured toward the still-pacing older man. ¡°Derzina, this is Arenth, one of my followers who¡¯ll be assisting us.¡±

    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± Arenth said, without warmth before turning to Xanathel. ¡°What do you require of me, my lord? I am ever at your disposal.¡±A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to speak with our guest, it is time he took a more active role.¡±

    Arenth stopped in place, frowning. ¡°I see. Things are progressing even more rapidly than I supposed then. Are you certain this is wise, my lord?¡±

    ¡°Not in the slightest,¡± Xanathel said. ¡°Such certainties are a luxury that we cannot afford, given our rather disadvantaged position. We must take every advantage we can obtain, no matter the risk.¡±

    ¡°As you say, my lord. I shall retrieve her at once.¡±

    Arenth left the room, leaving Derzina alone with Xanathel once more. It seemed that Arenth had calmed down after his god¡¯s explanations and was now working efficiently to carry out his will. Though Derzina did wonder how Arenth had become involved in this dangerous business, he didn¡¯t seem nearly reckless enough for it to suit his temperament.

    ¡°What precisely is the aim of all this?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°The aim is simple enough,¡± Xanathel said. ¡°I wish to demonstrate to Inea that her path is one of folly. We shall not bow before her, no matter how she tries to force us to bend to her will.¡±

    ¡°And you shall accomplish this how exactly?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll discover that for yourself when the timing is more opportune, I have said all that I will on the subject.¡±

    His blunt refusal to discuss his plans threw Derzina for a moment, until she realized he must not trust her yet. It was hardly surprising, given how sudden her change of heart had been. Though she still found it odd to be doubted so, she¡¯d never encountered this back in Ortesion. Then again, she¡¯d also never done anything like plot against a god.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t wish for me to know, why am I even here?¡±

    ¡°To see and be seen. And perhaps you will even prove to be useful, I, for one, certainly hope so.¡±

    ¡°And if I don¡¯t prove to be useful?¡± Derzina asked. Reading a threat in his words, she shifted uncomfortably in her seat.

    ¡°Then that will be unfortunate,¡± Xanathel said, with a tight smile. ¡°You¡¯re rather odd for a mortal, do you know that? I don¡¯t believe I¡¯ve had so candid a conversation like this with your kind in many years.¡±

    ¡°It has been strange for me as well, but I am no longer a mortal. At least not in the same way as the others.¡±

    ¡°Ah yes, of course, you¡¯re one with my mother now. I can¡¯t say I envy your predicament.¡±

    ¡°Though it is not ideal,¡± Derzina said, ¡°I have nothing to complain of. I would bear far worse for the sake of defeating Meztraxia.¡±

    ¡°Would you now? That is both commendable and worth remembering. Though I would advise that you focus on Inea for now, the Demon Lord will have to wait until more pressing matters are dealt with.¡±

    His reminder, fair as it was, still made Derzina wonder what he was trying to achieve. Did he truly think she had forgotten Inea in the slightest when she had only just declared herself in opposition of the goddess? Either he greatly underestimated her intelligence or he wished to deflect from the subject of the Demon Lord.

    ¡°Then we shall have to move quickly indeed. As great a danger as Inea poses, she is nothing compared to the threat Meztraxia represents. I would suggest you exercise the greatest possible caution in dealing with him, or you could easily see yourself slain as the god my city was. Your mother quite nearly shared in her sister¡¯s fate.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind, not that I had planned on rushing into a fight against him. I prefer to avoid battle where possible, particularly when there is such risk to my own personage.¡±

    Derzina frowned at that, narrowing her eyes at Xanathel. Though she would not be so bold to accuse him of cowardice without good cause, his words did not speak favourably of his courage. Hopefully his conduct in the actual battle would be considerably better, or he may be less aid than she had hoped.

    While Derzina was pondering the usefulness of her new allies, Arenth returned with his guest. A long-haired woman with an unhealthy grey cast to her skin and a battered wide-brimmed hat atop her head. Her dark eyes flickered from Xanathel to Derzina and, crossing her arms, she stood in the corner away from everyone else.

    ¡°This is Nirinphage,¡± Xanathel, ¡°another visitor to our grand city. Though she arrived some months before you.¡±

    Derzina would have told Nirinphage what a pleasure it was to meet them, but there was something in their gaze that set Derzina on edge. It contained both a readiness for action and a considerable measure of enmity.

    ¡°How unusual,¡± Derzina said, glancing at the woman again. ¡°However did she manage the journey?¡±

    ¡°You are not the only mortal so blessed,¡± Xanathel said.

    Derzina wasn¡¯t sure what he meant by that, likely just as he intended. She felt certain that Nirinphage didn¡¯t have a god dwelling within them, yet she couldn¡¯t think of what else he might be referring to.

    ¡°And how did she come to join your cause?¡±

    ¡°In much the same way you did,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°she witnessed Inea¡¯s many injustices and wished to do something about it. But enough questions, I did not bring you here to hear a recounting of Nirinphage¡¯s personal history. There will be time for that when our work is done, if you are still so inclined.¡±

    ¡°Fine, then why did you bring me here?¡± Derzina asked.

    That was largely what she¡¯d been trying to discern with her questions concerning Nirinphage, who was apparently vital to their cause in some manner. Why else would Xanathel have bothered with all of this?

    ¡°I wished for you all to become acquainted,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°as you have done, and to begin the first stage of our great work.¡±

    He rose from his chair and addressed the room. ¡°The time has come to free this city from the tyrant¡¯s grip and restore it to its former glory. Our first act of defiance shall be a grand demonstration of our resolve. The whole city has been profaned by her likeness, and it against that very likeness that we shall strike our first blow.¡±

    Walking over, he put his hand on Arenth¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Gather your men; your task is to topple the statues along the high street. You will strike when the moon begins its descent, before fading into the shadows. Do you understand?¡±

    ¡°Yes, my lord,¡± Arenth said, bobbing his head before leaving the room.

    ¡°What about us?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°You and I will destroy the largest of her statues, in the town centre.¡±

    He was reaching for the door when Derzina asked, ¡°Is Nirinphage not coming with us?¡±

    ¡°Not tonight, her task will come later. Now come, we have one more stop to make before we begin.¡±

 34 - Uprising

    Derzina watched as Xanathel walked to the end of the dark alley ahead and withdrew a pole from beneath a pile of decaying sheets. Hoisting it high, he revealed a rust brown flag depicting a leering face formed of darkness.

    ¡°What is that for?¡± Derzina asked, unfamiliar with the symbol.

    ¡°Our cause needs something to rally around, why not my own flag? While I may have little use for it under normal circumstances, our city is entering a new stage in its history and this seemed a perfect occasion to display it.¡±

    It wasn¡¯t exactly an inspiring design compared to Ortesia¡¯s wave of light, but Derzina supposed they weren¡¯t trying to inspire people. While she didn¡¯t much care for it herself, its dark austerity did serve as an effective counterpoint to the gaudy ornaments with which Inea was so enamoured.

    ¡°Is that all you need?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°It should be, so long as everything goes to plan. And thus, it¡¯s time for us to go to work.¡±

    Leaving the alley behind, they made their way toward the city¡¯s centre not far from the palace. Not long after suns dipped below the horizon, they entered the largely deserted square. Those few townspeople who lingered quickly made themselves scarce at Xanathel¡¯s approach.

    The only notable feature in the cobblestone square, Inea¡¯s colossal statue immediately drew the eye toward it. Its stone visage seemed to look back at Derzina, and she faltered before it¡¯s stern gaze.

    ¡°I assume you can destroy it on your own,¡± she said, ¡°Lady Atasimon is still resting.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Xanathel approached the statue alone, while Derzina watched. From the back, there was little to distinguish him from the mortals he dwelt among. She thought it was no wonder he seemed to have few followers, he was sorely lacking in both presence and majesty compared to Inea.

    Pausing for a moment before his target, Xanathel raised his hand and a jet of darkness erupted from it. The statue¡¯s legs vanished beneath it until it seemed to seep into the very stone, turning it from white to grey. His magic continued to discolour the image of Inea, until there wasn¡¯t a speck of white left.

    Derzina was wondering if that was all he intended to do, when the statue collapsed in on itself. In a matter of seconds, it was reduced to a soft grey mound atop its pedestal with nothing of its former nature left. Vaulting atop it with one hand, Xanathel plunged his flag into the small newly-formed hill in the same motion.

    That done, he hopped down and walked back toward Derzina.

    ¡°And thus,¡± he said, ¡°the first blow is struck.¡±

    ¡°Will this make much of a difference?¡± Derzina asked. Ruining a statue was far from the grandest of gestures; especially when Inea had so many.

    ¡°One way or another. Symbols are terribly important after all. Destroying one of the largest of hers and replacing it with my own ought to get the message across. Besides, destruction of Inea¡¯s monuments is punishable by death. Regardless of how this ends, the city shall see true change for the first time since it was established.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s punishable by death?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Has she truly killed people over something like that?¡±

    Harsh and inflexible as Inea had seemed, that was far beyond what Derzina had imagined. Only murderers, rapists and traitors had been executed under Ortesia¡¯s rule, and destroying a statue was nowhere close to any of those crimes.

    ¡°Indeed. Her executing one of my followers for just such a charge is precisely what instigated our current feud, though the true problem goes back much further than that. It likely began when we were forced into this prison together in the first place.¡±

    ¡°How did anyone force you into it?¡± She struggled to imagine how one could dictate to another god in such a fashion, even if they were one themselves.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°It was not Inea or anyone else who forced me, but rather the circumstances in which we found ourselves after the merging. This was the only location sufficiently free of corruption that my followers could easily reach. There were many more who followed me in those days, many of them died even during that short journey and most of those that remained deserted me eventually. Or if not them, then their children or their children¡¯s children.¡±

    He sounded rather melancholic by the end of it, though Derzina hardly blamed him for losing faith in people who had lost faith in him. It only made his cause all the more appealing, she was sure Ortesia would have been devasted if most of her followers had turned their back on her.

    From what Xanathel had said about Atasimon, it didn¡¯t seem like he¡¯d had a good relationship with his mother, but surely she¡¯d still want him to be happy. And how happy could a god be when everyone had deserted him? If he was anything like Ortesia, then he lived for his people; their joy was his joy and their sorrow was his sorrow.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that, it sounds awful. All the more reason why we must bring change to this city, I suppose.¡± If they were able to change that, then a little destruction seemed a small price to pay. It¡¯s not as if breaking a few statues would hurt anyone.

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Xanathel said, admiring his handiwork.

    ¡°What now? Do we just wait here?¡±

    Xanathel turned to her, looking mildly befuddled.

    ¡°I suppose we do; I hadn¡¯t quite thought that part through. I intend to deliver a speech to the crowd once they gather but,¡± he looked up at the night sky,¡± it seems it will be quite some time before that happens. My apologies, I feel a bit of a fool for dragging you all the way out here so pre-emptively.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±

    It¡¯s not as if Derzina had anything else to do, and she was happy to forgive such a minor error in planning. She¡¯d wait around far longer than a few hours if it meant freeing the city from Inea¡¯s tyranny.

    While she waited, Derzina spoke of small things and trivial matters until she hesitantly raised the subject of Atasimon. It seemed treacherous ground to tread, but she also needed to know. If there was bad blood between the two gods, then it could only serve to harm their cause.

    ¡°What was it like growing up under Atasimon¡¯s care?¡±

    ¡°Under her care?¡± Xanathel echoed, his lip curling in irritation. ¡°That¡¯s not quite how I would describe it. She was never much of a carer by any means, not when she had her own interests to pursue out in the wide world. I don¡¯t know how such things play out amongst your mortal families, but we never forget. My early memories, most of which she was absent from, forever stained our relationship. Not that either of us ever had much desire for one.¡±

    Derzina was relieved to hear that it was merely a matter of neglect, she had worried it might be something far more serious. ¡°I take it you have no problem working with her then.¡±

    ¡°Indeed. I would never have suggested any of this were that not the case, our personal misgivings are of little significance next to freeing the city from Inea¡¯s iron grip.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Derzina said. ¡°We have more than enough obstacles in our path without dissent amongst us creating any more. If we are to show Inea the error of her ways, then we must be both resolute and united in our efforts.¡±

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t agree more, and frankly I¡¯m relieved to hear you say that. As important as freeing the city is to me, I would not have expected the same level of commitment from a new arrival such as yourself.¡±

    Derzina smiled with a touch of true delight, she realised now how she¡¯d misjudged him. Though they may not be alike in character, their purpose and intent in this matter aligned almost perfectly.

    ¡°You¡¯re right that I have little personal stake in the city¡¯s wellbeing, but I simply cannot abide such injustice. Not while I have any ability to correct it.¡±

    ¡°I see that you possess a noble heart, a rare thing in this troubled world. My mother was most fortunate to have ended up with a woman of your quality.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s kind of you to say so.¡± She knew Xanathel was just flattering her, but there was no harm in being praised for doing what was right. ¡°I¡¯m sure your mother will be proud to hear all that we have done when once she has recovered.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps. That a little optimistic in my view, though I hope to be proven wrong. Do you believe her recovery will take much longer? We shall likely need to call upon her aid sooner rather than later.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m unsure how long it will take; she expended much of her power to lure Meztraxia. All we can do is hope that we shall see her again soon.¡±

    She could sense little of the goddess¡¯ presence within her, which did not speak favourably to the speed of her recovery. Without what Meztraxia had stolen from Atasimon, she¡¯d never be whole again. Or at least as whole as she ever was upon her return to this world in Derzina¡¯s paltry vessel.

    ¡°That is most troubling. If we are to do this without her, our chances of success shall suffer greatly. Helpful as you have been thus far, and I¡¯m sure you will continue to do, there is only so much mortal support can do for our cause.¡±

    Troubling as it was, Derzina was all too aware of how little mortals could do in a conflict involving beings of such power. ¡°Of course, Lord Xanathel. Though if we do manage to win over the people, will that not be enough to stay Inea¡¯s hand?¡±

    ¡°It would be enough for some gods,¡± Xanathal said, nodding, ¡°perhaps even most. I watched Inea rule this city for more than a century, and in that time, she has never allowed anyone to defy her. If the whole city turned against her, she will likely see sense. I would not put much faith in anything less.¡±

 35 - Deposing a God

    Derzina watched as the first light of the suns swept across the city, highlighting and reddening the white marble. With the dawn came yet more of the city¡¯s people, joining the growing crowd within the town square. None of them seemed to know quite what to do about Inea¡¯s broken statue, Xanathel¡¯s flag or his defiant presence.

    It was a strangely peaceful scene and Derzina took some solace in the tranquillity, especially as she knew it couldn¡¯t last. The crowd soon parted like water before Inea and her retinue of Paladins. Both god and followers were armed and armoured, their steel glittering beneath the suns¡¯ rays. They advanced to the edge of the square and halted. Inea¡¯s cold expression would have looked perfectly at home on one of her statues, like the one which had so recently stood within the square.

    ¡°Am I correct in assuming that you¡¯re responsible for this senseless destruction?¡± Inea asked of Xanathel, loud enough for everyone present to hear.

    ¡°I tore down your monument,¡± Xanathel replied, ¡°though I would hardly call it senseless destruction. It was more of an act of kindness really, removing an eyesore from such a public place.¡±

    ¡°And you?¡± Inea asked, disregarding Xanathel¡¯s glib reply and addressing Derzina.

    ¡°Xanathel alone undertook the destruction,¡± Derzina said, ¡°but I endorsed his actions and take full responsibility.¡±

    Inea drew her sword, holding it down by her side.

    ¡°You have both admitted your guilt, do you have anything to say in your defence?¡±

    ¡°Only that I acted in the interests of Brtet¡¯s people,¡± Xanathel said. ¡°All I wish is for them to be free.¡±

    ¡°This is how you try to benefit the city?¡± Inea demanded. ¡°By the wanton destruction of its property? Especially now, when we are all under threat.¡±

    She pointed the tip of her blade at them. ¡°Xanathel and Derzina, you are hereby sentenced to death. In deference to your status, I shall carry out the sentence myself.¡±

    Derzina froze, dumbfounded by the goddess proclamation and utterly defenceless before her. Shocked as she was, she was quite aware of unfazed Xanathel was. As if everything was going according to plan.

    ¡°You would butcher your fellow gods over a mere statue?¡± Xanathel asked, sounding appalled at the idea. ¡°Do you truly have so little concern for your people that you would rather defend the city alone?¡±

    ¡°Better alone than with traitors at my back,¡± Inea said. ¡°At least we¡¯ll be free to plan the defence without worrying about who might decide to side with the demons over humanity. I had my concerns about a visitor from the blighted lands beyond our walls, and it seems I was right to be cautious.¡±

    Inea approached slowly and purposefully, each armoured footfall ringing throughout the square. Breathing rapidly, Derzina retreated behind Xanathel. Though she was still unsure of what to do, she was certain she wanted no part in any violence that might be done here. Only a fool would stand between gods intent on killing one another.

    Unarmed and dressed only in his dirty cloth, Xanathel hopped down from the pedestal to face Inea. ¡°I am no traitor. I have only broken this statue to demonstrate to our people they don¡¯t have to live in fear of you any longer.¡± Ignoring Inea completely, he turned to the people around them. ¡°Her tyrannical reign has lasted far too long, it is past time that we take a stand. Will you not join me in opposition, that we might win freedom for yourselves and your children? Only then shall¡ª"

    His speech was cut short by Inea crossing the remaining distance in a series of rapid steps and attempting to cut his head from his shoulders. Leaving a trail of white light through the air, her blade missed his neck by less than an inch as he swayed aside.

    ¡°Do you see how¡ª"Was all he managed, before Inea pressed her attack and he was forced to defend himself. A spray of darkness enveloped Inea¡¯s sword for an instant, long enough to stay its momentum and give Xanathel time to scramble out of the way.

    More of the same inky blackness spewed forth, covering Xanathel from head-to-toe.

    ¡°Lady Inea please,¡± Derzina pleaded, ¡°can we not talk about this? There¡¯s no need for anyone to die.¡±

    Inea paid no mind to Derzina¡¯s words, thrusting her sword straight through Xanathel¡¯s barrier. The darkness flowed around the point and shot toward Inea, forcing her backward to avoid being enveloped by the other god¡¯s magic. Cutting apart the darkness with a few quick slashes, which reduced them to nothing, Inea was stepping in again as Xanathel brought forth more of his power when a hoarse, booming voice called out.

    ¡°What do you fools think you¡¯re doing?¡± shouted a man as he shoved his way through the collected mass of humanity. Strips of faded cloth concealed all but his head, the features of which were largely obscured beneath a thick layer of dirt and his unkept beard.

    Both of the gods halted, turning to the newcomer. ¡°I am working to execute a traitor,¡± Inea replied, completely calm despite having been locked in mortal combat but a moment ago.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    ¡°For the crime of breaking one of your ridiculous statues?¡± the interloper demanded. ¡°A life ought to be worth more than that, especially that of a god.¡±

    ¡°Do not presume to judge me, Gorthar. You know my laws.¡±

    ¡°I know them better than I¡¯d like, and they bear little resemblance to anything sensible. Is a statue truly worth so much to you that you¡¯d kill one of your fellow gods over it?¡±

    ¡°Thank you for interceding,¡± Xanathel said, dismissing his protection. Though he still kept his distance from Inea. ¡°It is wonderful to hear someone speaking sense at last.¡±

    ¡°Shut your idiot mouth,¡± Gorthar spat. ¡°You knew exactly what would happen but you still went ahead and provoked her. And for what? Your own petty amusement?¡±

    Returning to his place atop the pedestal where Inea¡¯s statue had once stood, Xanathel adopted an expression of injured dignity. ¡°I am trying to improve the lives of our people by bringing Inea¡¯s injustices to light. Something I asked you to aid me in for many years, though you have finally seen the truth.¡±

    ¡°I see nothing more than squabbling children. I had hoped to stay out this matter, that you both might eventually see sense, but it appears you would rather risk the city than move past your differences.¡±

    ¡°If you would interfere with me enacting my rightful judgement,¡± Inea said, pointing her blade toward Gorthar, ¡°then you are as traitorous as the ones you defend.¡±

    Glaring at the naked steel, Gorthar approached until he was well within striking distance. ¡°If disagreeing with the garbage that comes out of your mouth makes me a traitor, then I¡¯ve been a traitor since the day we met. What do you intend to do about it?¡±

    Moving her sword into a guard position, it seemed as if Inea would strike at any moment. Yet she merely continued to stand there, staring at the impudent god before her. Overwhelmed as Derzina felt, she took it upon herself to step in and try to stop this madness before it got any worse.

    ¡°I understand that you all have your grievances, and I don¡¯t mean to make light of any of them, but we cannot allow ourselves to descend into violence. You can ill afford to weaken your city in this time of crisis, and the people deserve better from their rulers.¡±

    Lecturing a pair of gods poised on the edge of battle was the scariest thing she¡¯d ever done, even more so than facing off against Meztraxia¡¯s army. At least Atasimon and the people of Ortesion had been with her in one way or another back then, now she was all alone.

    ¡°I will not be chastised by you or anyone else,¡± Inea said, focusing on Derzina over the other two. ¡°The people stand behind me now, just as they have always done.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Xanathel asked. ¡°Then why don¡¯t we ask them?¡± Raising his arms, his amplified voice rung out through the square and beyond. ¡°Do you truly think it is just that a god should die over a mere statue?¡±

    There were a few muttered replies, but for the most part the crowd remained silent, and for the first time since her arrival, Inea looked uncertain. She opened her mouth to speak only to apparently think better of it and sheath her sword. ¡°If the people wish to overlook your crime in deference to your status and the coming war,¡± Inea said, ¡°then I shall heed their wishes and allow you to walk free. Do not test my patience further, they shall not be so merciful next time.¡±

    She marched off along with her Paladins, the people around them wilting from their presence and beginning to disperse once they realized the spectacle was at an end. Noticing Gorthar shuffling off with the rest, Derzina caught up to him. ¡°Thank you for your assistance, I fear things would have escalated even further without your assistance.¡±

    Gorthar grunted and kept walking. ¡°Just wanted to stop those idiots killing each other, there¡¯s nothing to thank me for.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Derzina said, keeping pace with him, ¡°regardless of your intentions, I still appreciate your assistance.¡±

    ¡°Appreciate away, it doesn¡¯t make a lick of difference to me.¡±

    Seeing that her presence only seemed to be irritating the already irritated god, Derzina cut her losses and let him be. Xanathel was still standing there looking dazed when Derzina returned. It was only now that she noticed the bloody tear in his clothing.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡± he replied, blinking.

    ¡°You¡¯re bleeding.¡±

    He looked down at himself, apparently seeing the wound on his chest for the first time. ¡°So I am. Don¡¯t worry about it, it¡¯s nothing serious.¡±

    Though Derzina suspected he was just trying to play it off, he wasn¡¯t bleeding that much and she decided it wasn¡¯t all that important. ¡°You could have told me she would try to kill you.¡±

    He shrugged. ¡°You¡¯ve met her. It never occurred to me that you might not expect such an outcome. Still, even if I had, what would you have done differently?¡±

    ¡°To be frank, I don¡¯t know if I¡¯d have agreed to do any of this. As important as your cause is, I¡¯m not sure it¡¯s worth either of us dying over. We still have a city to defend.¡±

    ¡°I thought you understood the danger Inea¡¯s tyranny posed to that very defence; has this encounter sapped your resolve?¡±

    It had certainly dampened Derzina¡¯s desire to oppose Inea, though it ashamed her enough that she¡¯d rather not admit it. ¡°I still believe what she¡¯s doing is wrong, but it seems a terrible risk to take.¡±

    ¡°You need not concern yourself with the risk, I had the situation perfectly in hand. This is not the first time Inea and I have come to blows, and I suspect it shall not be the last.¡±

    She dearly hoped he was wrong and this was a one-time thing, though seeing the depth of enmity between the two she held little faith that her hope would become reality. That two people who ostensibly worked toward the same purpose could be so at odds with one another boggled her mind, let alone two gods.

    ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right, I shall have to consider this further. Would you be willing to halt your plans for the time being, that I might have more time to think?¡±

    ¡°I suppose I can wait a little while; I¡¯ll relay that to my men. Those of whom are still alive at least.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t they be alive?¡±

    Xanathel gave her a puzzled look. ¡°You saw what Inea nearly did to me, what do you think she¡¯s going to do my followers who defied her?¡±

    ¡°Then what are we still doing here? Do you mean to just leave them to die?¡±

    ¡°Their deaths shall serve our cause even better than our little confrontation; a perfect illustration of Inea¡¯s flaws.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s awful,¡± Derzina said, open-mouthed.

    How could he be so callous toward his own followers? Well, whatever his feelings toward them Derzina would not let them die for this if she had any say in it.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Xanathel asked, as she was in the process of leaving.

    ¡°To see if I can still save their lives. I would not presume to tell you what to do, but if you will not help me save them then I can no longer support your cause. If you have any regard for your followers, you cannot allow them to sacrifice themselves. Not like this.¡±

    Without waiting to see if he would follow her, Derzina strode out from the square.

 36 - The Burden of Leadership

    After going over the maps to cross-reference his sense of where Atasimon was with the geography of the land, Meztraxia summoned his generals.

    Cyaform stormed into the tent, full of bluster despite being the last one to arrive. ¡°What is it now?¡± he demanded.

    ¡°I have decided on our target,¡± Meztraxia said, pointing at one of the human cities marked on the map spread out across the table.

    The generals all leant in to look, and Vexoxin asked, ¡°Why this one in particular, my lord?¡± He looked at Meztraxia. ¡°I thought we¡¯d agreed it was best to strike at one of the less populated cities on the coast.¡±

    ¡°We did, but the situation has changed. The power of the goddess who escaped me has become more my own, now I can sense where she is. I can tell she¡¯s hiding in that city, thus that¡¯s where we will strike. She¡¯s the only one who has any idea of what¡¯s coming, it¡¯s best that we destroy her before she has a chance to warn any more cities.¡±

    Though not a perfect explanation, it was the best Meztraxia could come up with on such short notice. He¡¯d been having trouble thinking clearly ever since his most recent encounter with the goddess. The other presence in this head was a constant irritant, and he couldn¡¯t stop worrying about what might happen if he gave it more time. If she truly was capable of taking over his body, he¡¯d lose everything and give the humans a powerful weapon at the same time. One that could easily turn the balance of power in their favour.

    Nostlinum frowned, tapping on the table. ¡°Then why not simply strike at the other cities before she has a chance to warn them? Wherever she is will be the best prepared to resist us.¡±This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    ¡°But it is still only one city,¡± Meztraxia said.¡± It¡¯s best that we destroy it while our forces are at full strength, or this problem will only continue to spread.¡±

    ¡°How can we even be sure that the goddess won¡¯t simply flee at the approach of our army? It seems the sensible thing to do, especially if her aim is to warn the other cities. She could very possibly have moved on long before we reach the walls.¡±

    ¡°She won¡¯t,¡± Meztraxia insisted, ¡°I know her mind. She¡¯d rather die than abandon another city to destruction.¡±

    Nostlinum cleared his throat and raised an eyebrow. ¡°And how did you come by this intimate knowledge of how she thinks?¡±

    ¡°Through my growing connection with her, the very same one that allows me to sense her location. I¡¯m beginning to think you don¡¯t trust my leadership, Lord Nostlinum. Have I performed so poorly thus far to warrant such doubt? Or does the thought of truly taking the fight to the humans strike such fear in you that you¡¯ve taken leave of your senses?¡± Before the other Demon Lord could reply, Meztraxia added, ¡°I trust that my other generals are neither so craven nor so doubtful.¡±

    ¡°I do not fear the humans or their pathetic gods,¡± Cyaform declared, sneering.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know the wisest course, my lord,¡± Vexoxin said. ¡°I did not intend to call your decision into doubt, merely to offer counsel.¡±

    ¡°And there you have it,¡± Meztraxia said, pre-empting Nostlinum once more, ¡°the rest of our forces are committed. You can either make your peace with it, or march your men home. At least those who are willing to be denied a share the coming glory.¡±

    With a sour look on his face that Meztraxia took to be acquiescence, Nostlinum retreated from the command tent. Though one of his generals was missing, Meztraxia had no trouble planning out the specifics of their troop movements. He trusted his remaining officers to relay his orders, and take command over any elements that might be confused as to what they should be doing.

 37 - Seeking Allies

    Xanathel overtook Derzina only moments after she set out, but she pressed on regardless. Though he would surely be able to do much more to affect the fate of his followers, she could at least try to ensure he made the right choice. Ignoring the many knots of people she passed, each engaged in heated discussion, she burst out onto the high street.

    Crowded as it normally was, it was now all but deserted, which offered her a clear view of the massacre. Nearly a dozen men and woman lay dead, their blood dirtying the pristine stone beneath them. Their killers were gone, leaving only Xanathel to watch over his fallen followers.

    Seeing these civilians butchered, and by their own people no less, turned Derzina¡¯s stomach. It was several moments before she could work past the knot of sorrow and rage in her throat to speak.

    ¡°You never should have tasked them with this. How can this possibly be worth it?¡±

    ¡°I had thought it a small price to pay for a chance at breaking the back of Inea¡¯s tyrannical rule, I was certain of it. I told myself that if I wasn¡¯t willing to sacrifice this much, then I lacked the resolve to challenge her on what she was doing.¡± Turning away from the bodies, he looked to Derzina with tears in his eyes. ¡°But I was wrong. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever been so wrong about anything in my life.¡±

    ¡°At least you realise it now. Small a thing as it is, it is far better than learning nothing from this tragedy. At this stage, we must take whatever we can from it.¡±

    Looking truly pitiful as the physical manifestation of his sorrow flowed freely, Xanathel spoke in a faltering voice. ¡°Will you still aid me? I know I don¡¯t deserve it after what I¡¯ve done to my followers, but it is precisely for the sake of the fallen that I must see this through. Will you do this? If not for me, then for them?¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± Derzina answered, without hesitation. It was not in her to refuse such a heartfelt plea and she wished to make good on their sacrifice just as much as he did. ¡°I doubt we can ever make up for what was lost on this day, but I shall do my utmost to try.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Xanathel said, clasping her hand in both of his. ¡°I swear we shall redeem this city on their behalf and Inea will answer for all that she has done. I know I said I would postpone my plans, but in the face of this awful butchery I find that I cannot wait any longer.¡±

    ¡°I completely understand and I¡¯m not so foolish as to insist that you wait. I was unsure before; now I know for certain that she must be stopped.¡±

    ¡°Then we have not a moment to lose.¡±

    He was walking away when Derzina called out to him. ¡°Wait, surely you don¡¯t mean to leave your followers lying dead in the street. Urgent a matter as this is, we cannot simply leave them here.¡±

    ¡°Of course, forgive me; my mind was clouded by the thoughts of all that we must yet do. I shall send some of my followers along at the first possible opportunity to collect them and administer their burial rites.¡±

    Derzina nodded, satisfied. ¡°Good, then let us continue. What did you have in mind for the next step?¡±

    ¡°The people¡¯s confidence in Inea and her confidence in herself have been shaken, but they are far from broken. She still has many Paladins who are sure to be loyal to her.¡±

    ¡°After the executions of your followers and her public attempt on your life, what more can we do to show them the true nature of their goddess?¡±

    If that was not enough to move them, then were they supposed to engineer a tragedy of even greater magnitude? Because Derzina would not even entertain such an appalling notion, there had been more than enough death as it was.

    ¡°I have other plans in motion which take a less overt approach, but they shall proceed without our direct intervention. In the meantime, I believe we will be best served appealing to the people ourselves. The seeds of changes have been sown, we have only to nurture them and we shall see Inea brought low.¡±

    ¡°What about Gorthar?¡± Derzina asked. Standoffish as he¡¯d seemed, he clearly cared about the fate of the people. ¡°Should we not ask for his support as well? I¡¯m sure having all the other gods in opposition to Inea would send a stronger message.¡±

    ¡°I have asked for his aid many times. If he were willing to help, then he would have done so a long time ago. Then we could have been spared many of the injustices that have happened since.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps I should talk to him; a new perspective might make all the difference.¡± The plight of the people was plain for all to see, she only had to convince him that Xanathel¡¯s path was for the better.

    ¡°I rather doubt it,¡± Xanathel said, sounding dispassionate and exhausted, ¡°he¡¯s the most stubborn man I¡¯ve ever met. Better that we focus our efforts on more gainful endeavours. The more time we waste, the more time Inea has to destroy what we have begun before it even gets off the ground.¡±

    ¡°I understand what you¡¯re saying, but I have to at least try. Ignoring such a valuable potential ally does not sit well with me. Besides, he¡¯s a god; does he not have a duty to protect the people of his city?¡±

    ¡°He doesn¡¯t see it that way, otherwise he¡¯d already be helping us.¡±

    ¡°Then I shall simply have to change his mind, where can I find him?¡±

    Xanathel sighed, looking utterly depleted. ¡°You¡¯re as stubborn as he is; perhaps that will offer you the slightest chance of convincing him. If you insist on this foolishness, then you can find him in his temple near the western wall. Anyone you ask within the vicinity should point you in the right direction.¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    ¡°Thank you, good luck with your own work.¡±

    ¡°To you as well,¡± Xanathel said, without sincerity. ¡°though you¡¯ll need it a lot more than I will.¡±

    Putting Xanathel¡¯s objections down to grief more than anything, Derzina didn¡¯t think too much of them as she left the god behind and headed westward. Just as Xanathel had said, as she drew close to the wall, she had only to ask someone and they took her right to Gorthar¡¯s temple.

    Comprised of several long buildings with curved rooms joined by sheltered walkways, the only ornamentation was a square plaque near the entrance displaying red and white stripes. Though a humbler affair than Inea¡¯s palace, its sheer size still easy to spot amongst the surroundings buildings.

    Knocking at the door, Derzina was greeted by a grim looking woman in white.

    ¡°Hello,¡± Derzina said. ¡°I wish to speak with Lord Gorthar, is he in?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just Gorthar, and I¡¯ll go get him.¡±

    Though a little thrown by the woman¡¯s blunt speech, it was a favourable enough reception. Hopefully Gorthar himself would be as amicable. He emerged a few moments later, wearing breeches and a long tunic, that had both once been white, and grumbling under his breath.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you,¡± he said, sounding not the least bit pleased to see her. ¡°What do you want?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve come to speak with you about our cause.¡± He seemed an honest sort and Derzina thought it best to treat with him in a forthright manner.

    ¡°And what cause is that? Starting fights in the town square?¡±

    ¡°I had no part in that, it was Inea that attacked Xanathel.¡±

    ¡°Uh-huh. And you mean to tell me you had nothing to do with provoking her?¡±

    ¡°Well, I was in league with Xanathel but I didn¡¯t think it would come to violence. Either way, it does nothing to justify her actions.¡±

    ¡°Spare me, I¡¯ve heard it all before. I have work of actual importance to do.¡±

    ¡°Please,¡± Derzina said, as he moved to close the door, ¡°I know the rift between Xanathel and Inea must seem silly, but hear me out. If you aren¡¯t convinced, then I shall leave you in peace.¡±

    Gorthar made a sound of discontentment and gestured for her to come in. ¡°If you insist on being here, then you must assist me. I can always use more helpers, especially when the chaos of your little conflict has both distracted a number of my flock from their duties and created yet more patients.¡±

    As they passed through the entrance to the wide room beyond, he asked, ¡°Have you any experience caring for the sickly or wounded?¡±

    ¡°A little. I know enough to clean and dress wounds.¡±

    Rows of beds filled most of the interior, all but a few containing men and women in different stages of injury or illness. On the whole they did not seem too badly off, though Derzina was still surprised to see they numbered so many.

    ¡°Is this what all the buildings that make up your temple are used for?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Mostly.¡±

    He continued past the rows of patients, many of whom looked upon him with joy, and a few of his white-clad followers, to a smaller section at the back.

    ¡°This is where I tend to those in need of more drastic measures.¡±

    A young man, either asleep or unconscious, with bloody bandages wrapped around his arm lay on a wooden table with a long board extending from either side. There were straps holding his injured arm on one of the boards as well as several around his torso. A variety of blades and other tools lay within easy reach of the table.

    ¡°Have you a strong stomach?¡± Gorthar asked.

    ¡°I do.¡±

    ¡°Good.¡±

    Gorthar unwrapped the bandage, showing a broken mess of bone and exposed flesh. Though Derzina had answered with confidence, she felt a small measure of disquiet in her belly at the sight.

    ¡°What happened to him?¡±

    ¡°Some accident while he was working on one of Inea¡¯s latest monuments, the details are unimportant. I need to remove the arm and I need you to do as I say, can you manage that much?¡±

    ¡°I can.¡±

    ¡°We shall see.¡±

    He selected one of the small blades and began cutting away the skin as he gave Derzina her first commands which she hurried to obey, wiping away blood and handing him tools upon request. By the end of she was bloodied and exhausted, but satisfied. Gory as it had been, they¡¯d removed the damaged arm and done what they could with the remainder. Though the man they¡¯d worked on was terribly pale, he was alive.

    ¡°How did I do?¡± Derzina asked, as Gorthar washed his hand in a basin of water.

    ¡°Poorly,¡± he said, shaking his hands dry, ¡°but better than I¡¯d expect of someone with no experience.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯ll listen to me?¡±

    ¡°For a short while, make it quick.¡±

    Once his hands were cleansed of the worst of it, he started cleaning his tools.

    Stressful as the operation had been, it had given Derzina plenty of time to marshal her arguments and she wasted no time in beginning. ¡°You clearly care a lot about people and- ¡°

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Derzina asked, dumbfounded.

    ¡°You¡¯ve no idea what you¡¯re talking about, I don¡¯t care the slightest bit about you or the others.¡±

    ¡°But then why would you do all this? Isn¡¯t your temple set up purely for the sake of helping people?¡±

    ¡°It is, doesn¡¯t mean I give a damn about them.¡±

    ¡°Why else would you do it? There seems little profit in it for you from what I¡¯ve seen.¡±

    ¡°Because it¡¯s the right thing to do,¡± he said, as if it were the simplest thing in the world.

    ¡°And is putting an end to Inea¡¯s tyranny not the right thing to do?¡± She was perplexed that it could even be in question, was Inea¡¯s rule not obviously to the detriment of the city?

    ¡°Maybe. But helping Xanathel¡¯s sure not the way to do it, I¡¯d trust that man we just cut to draw a bow more than I trust that scoundrel¡¯s plans. Even if we unseated Inea, we¡¯d probably end up right where we started; only with a lord instead of a lady.¡±

    ¡°Though I can¡¯t claim to know him like you do,¡± Derzina said, ¡°in my time with him he has been honest, compassionate and righteous.¡±

    Gorthar made a low sound of amusement from the back of his throat. ¡°Then it sounds like we know two different people.¡±

    He set aside the last of his implements and was moving to return to the main room when Derzina blocked his path. ¡°Fine, maybe putting Xanathel in charge would be no better; I can¡¯t say for certain. But I¡¯m certain that the people deserve better than living under Inea¡¯s rule. Besides, the events we¡¯ve already put in motion will have grave consequences regardless of what you choose to do.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t argue with that,¡± Gorthar said, grinding his teeth, ¡°you¡¯ve set a disaster in action.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s all the more reason why we need your help. I know very little of this city and, if like you say, Xanathel can¡¯t be trusted; then we are in desperate need of a man of influence with no ulterior motives such as yourself.¡±

    Gorthar scowled at her but Derzina stared back at his frightening countenance, unwavering. The silent match went on for some time until finally Gorthar said, ¡°You¡¯re not going to leave me alone, are you? Even if I refuse.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ll argue with you until I¡¯m blue in the face if I think there¡¯s the slightest chance it¡¯ll get you on our side, we really do need you. Especially if we¡¯re to prevent further bloodshed.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not giving me a lot of options here.¡±

    ¡°That was precisely my intention,¡± Derzina said, with a confident smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ll help bring down Inea, but only so long as you two will accept my counsel and I¡¯m free to act as I wish.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful. I agree to your terms, and while I can¡¯t speak for Xanathel, I¡¯m sure he will too.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful, is it?¡± Gorthar asked, moving past Derzina now that she was no longer obstructing him and stomping towards the front door. ¡°You have much to learn about this city.¡±

 38 - When Gods Clash

    ¡°What¡¯s Xanathel doing right now?¡± Gorthar asked, once they were outside his temple.

    ¡°That¡¯s a good question,¡± Derzina said. ¡°I¡¯m not really sure.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not sure?¡± Gorthar demanded. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be working together?¡±

    ¡°Well, we share a common goal but we¡¯re not exactly working together toward it right now. He said we should appeal to the people directly; do you have any idea how best to go about that?¡±

    She¡¯d considered simply setting up in a public space and speaking at length on the evils of Inea¡¯s rule, but she doubted people would listen to her. They already knew how they were suffering far better than she did and a call to action by an outsider wasn¡¯t likely to change much, especially without any divine support.

    ¡°Nope. In my experience it¡¯s much easier to convince people to be oppressed or to oppress one another than it is to get them to break that cycle.¡±

    ¡°Then what would you do?¡±

    ¡°I was hoping you two would have some suggestions, given that you¡¯re apparently trying to fulfil some grand plan; but I see that this attempt is just as ill-considered as I¡¯d imagined it to be.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s heart sunk and she feared he might already have given up on their cause. ¡°Then you no longer wish to aid us?¡±

    ¡°I never had any desire to in the first place, but I gave you my word, and I¡¯ll see this through on my own terms.¡±

    ¡°Then I assume you have a course you¡¯d rather pursue than rousing the people?¡±

    ¡°I do. One I think is more likely to succeed, at any rate. Inea is the heart of all this, I will rip her out and put an end to this foolishness.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s wise?¡± Derzina asked. It seemed bound to result in another battle between gods, wasn¡¯t that exactly what they¡¯d been trying to avoid?

    ¡°There¡¯s no wisdom in any of this, all the more reason to put a stop to it as quickly as possible.¡±

    Desperately unsure as to if bringing Gorthar into this had been a good idea, Derzina walked beside him to the palace. Despite his words, he set a leisurely enough pace which left Derzina ample time to worry over what might happen. She wasn¡¯t usually given to worrying, but she couldn¡¯t help herself when the fate of the city hung in the balance.

    The streets around the palace were largely deserted and Derzina fancied that they might have an easy path to Inea, right until they reached the palace¡¯s outer grounds to find it swarming with Inea¡¯s Paladins. Ranks of green-armoured men and woman turned to face them as they approached. Or to be more precise, turned to face Gorthar. They paid little attention to Derzina.

    ¡°The palace is off limits until further notice,¡± bellowed a man Derzina recognised as Temius, the same man who¡¯d raided Xanathel¡¯s temple.

    Not wishing to incur the wrath of the soldiers unduly, Derzina stayed back while Gorthar approached unfazed.

    ¡°You forget yourself,¡± he said, ¡°nowhere is off limits to me, this is my city as much as hers and you¡¯ve no authority to tell me anything.¡±

    Doing credit to his courage or his foolishness, Derzina wasn¡¯t sure which, Teimus refused to back down. ¡°Leave at once, or we will remove you by force.¡±

    The faces of those around him looked rather less certain about his threat but they remained by Temius¡¯ side as he barred the passage of a god.

    ¡°You are welcome to try,¡± Gorthar said, strolling toward the palace.

    ¡°I will not warn you again,¡± Temius said, ¡°halt!¡±

    Gorthar ignored his warning and the Paladin slammed into the robed god at full force. Though it was surely enough to bring most people to the ground, his efforts made not the slightest impression on Gorthar. The Paladin may as well have been trying to hold back a raging river for all the effect he had.

    His fellows, perhaps taking courage from his bold display, jumped in to help. But to their cries of dismay, they found themselves incapable of even slowing Gorthar. After a few steps of effortlessly dragging the half a dozen people hanging off him, Gorthar paused.

    ¡°You cannot stop me,¡± he said, ¡°leave me to pass in peace and I shall overlook your actions.¡±

    The Paladins broke off and moved aside, all except for Temius who decided to definitively cross the oft thin line between bravery and stupidity. Shouting something meaningless but encouraging, he drew his blade and struck at Gorthar.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    In one sweep of his arm, the god broke both the blade and its bearer. Not sparing a glance for the fallen, Gorthar stepped over the man writhing in pain and advanced on the palace. Wiping his hand on his robes, Gorthar shouted with such force that Derzina¡¯s ears rung and she shielded them with her hands.

    ¡°Inea,¡± he roared, ¡°face me!¡±

    When no reply came, he put his fist through the stone wall and tore it asunder like a piece of paper. His rampage continued until the ground was strewn with rubble and Inea emerged, clad in all-encompassing plate armour with a halberd in her hands and a sword at her hip.

    ¡°Thrown in with the other traitors, have you?¡± Inea asked, her scorn palpable even with her face hidden by steel.

    ¡°Someone had to put an end to your little war, this seemed the fastest way to do it. Now, will you surrender your hold over the city willingly? Or would you prefer to do this the hard way and mess up more of your fancy palace?¡±

    ¡°I would sooner die than surrender to the likes of you, I will not give in to threats.¡±

    ¡°As you wish. Know that I take no pleasure in this, though I¡¯m sure that will bring you no comfort.¡±

    As he approached, Inea swung the halberd¡¯s axe head in a wide arc and sent it hurtling toward him. Brushing aside the blow as one would an errant insect, he caught the haft of her weapon and tore it from her hands. He broke it broke it over his knee and let the pieces fall to the ground.

    Inea¡¯s sword was halfway drawn when Gorthar¡¯s fist caved in her breastplate, sending her to the ground. As she struggled to rise, he set his foot on her chest and ground her into the dirt.

    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± he said, ¡°this isn¡¯t worth your life.¡±

    When she continued to fumble for her sword despite his advice, Gorthar lifted her by the feet and swung her into the wall of her palace. The white stone splintered and collapsed atop Inea. Shoving aside the debris, Inea staggered to her feet with sword in hand.

    ¡°There is nothing I would rather die for than my city,¡± Inea said, defiant.

    ¡°So be it,¡± Gorthar said, stepping toward her.

    The faces of the men and women around Derzina reflected the fear and impotence within her. But she couldn¡¯t let that stop her. If she left this matter for the gods to decide it could only end in tragedy.

    ¡°Wait!¡± she shouted and Gorthar paused. ¡°The last thing we need is more dead gods, especially from fighting with each other.¡± She turned to Inea. ¡°Lady Inea, as applaudable as your determination is, this is not what the people want. Do you really think your followers will be happy to know that you died purely for the sake of continuing your rule?¡±

    When Inea stopped but didn¡¯t reply, Derzina addressed the silent crowd of Paladins. ¡°Why don¡¯t we ask them? Do you wish your god to sacrifice herself here; fighting a pointless battle she cannot hope to win?¡±

    Looking at the collected faces, Derzina saw only incomprehension. Was this how she¡¯d looked when she first heard Ortesia had fallen? It seemed likely, and she could understand how overwhelmed they must be, but this was no time for sympathy.

    ¡°Please, if you ever had any faith in her, speak now or she will die here today.¡±

    It began as a murmur of despair, rising until they were crying out in horror and begging Inea not to throw her life away. Tears flowed unchecked, and even the gravely injured Temius was far more dismayed at his goddess¡¯ plight than his own.

    Steeling herself, Derzina moved between the gods and faced Inea. Only the goddess¡¯ eyes were visible from behind her helm, and they were full of fury as she clutched her sword. Yet there was an uncertainty to her stance which gave Derzina hope she might convince the goddess after all.

    ¡°Please, let this end without further bloodshed. No one wishes you to leave the city or anything so drastic, just that you allow your people enough freedom to live in peace.¡±

    Inea¡¯s sword arm trembled and to Derzina¡¯s relief, she tossed it at Gorthar¡¯s feet.

    ¡°The city is yours,¡± Inea said.

    ¡°Thank you, child,¡± Gorthar said. ¡°That is all we wished.¡±

    ¡°Then it seems it¡¯s my time to step in,¡± Xanathel said, voice rich with smug satisfaction as he emerged from the gathered Paladins with Mostanto by his side. ¡°I¡¯ll figure out the details of her surrender, that we might restore proper order to this city and rid it of tyranny once and for all.¡±

    As he reached Derzina, he put his hand on her shoulder. ¡°Thank you for all that you have done, our city is blessed to have received your presence. This is your victory as much as anyone¡¯s.¡±

    Embarrassed by the praise, particularly in such a public setting, Derzina just nodded and went after the departing Gorthar. Xanathel did nothing to stop her, instead retiring to the palace with Inea.

    ¡°I¡¯m still not sure I agree with your methods,¡± Derzina said to Gorthar, once they¡¯d left the Paladins behind, ¡°but you made Inea see sense where no one else could.¡±

    Gorthar grunted in dissatisfaction. ¡°All I did was beat my granddaughter, probably would killed her if you hadn¡¯t done anything. Am I meant to take pride in that?¡±

    ¡°Well, no.¡± Derzina floundered for a few moments, thrown by the grim reality reflected within his words before rallying. ¡°You can take pride in having ended her tyranny without further loss of life. That¡¯s the most important part, that¡¯s what people will remember of this day.¡±

    ¡°Maybe,¡± Gorthar said, not sounding the least bit convinced. ¡°Maybe they¡¯ll remember the fall of their beloved goddess and the dark days that followed. Either way, I wash my hands of it. This is your mess now. Yours and the crook you¡¯re in league with.¡± He stopped in the street, looking at her with tired contempt. ¡°This is goodbye, I don¡¯t want to hear from either of you again. I¡¯ve given enough of my life to end the foolishness you two began.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wrong,¡± Derzina declared, unable to let him go like this. ¡°People will look back on this as the day their city rose to glory, I¡¯ll make sure of it.¡±

    Gorthar¡¯s eyes bored into her as he searched her features. ¡°You really believe that, don¡¯t you? That one mortal can change the course of this whole city. How is it you think you can do what Xanathel failed to do for all these years?¡±

    ¡°Because I¡¯m working on the people¡¯s behalf to do what¡¯s right. They know my cause to be righteous, all they need is a little nudge and they¡¯ll be the ones to make it reality.¡±

    She may not have much power, but she knew the people of the city had all they needed to make it a better place. Besides, she was more than a mere mortal now, that had to count for something.

    ¡°I thought I didn¡¯t have any pity to spare for mortals after all these years, but I pity you.¡±

    With that, Gorthar walked off and Derzina let the sour old god go. Let him dwell in the past, he¡¯d done his part and there was a future to build. Not letting his pessimism get to her, Derzina went back to the palace.

 39 - Divine Deliberation

    Inea¡¯s Paladins were still milling around palace grounds in confusion when Derzina arrived, though they¡¯d regained enough of their senses to take Temius away. From what she¡¯d seen, he¡¯d probably live. If he was lucky, he might even be able to use his arm again. Avoiding eye contact with the lot of them, Derzina reached the palace¡¯s front door to find Mostanto leaning against it.

    ¡°You¡¯re back,¡± he said.

    ¡°I am,¡± Derzina said. ¡°Have they already started talking things over?¡±

    ¡°More or less. There was a little unpleasantness at first, though I believe they¡¯ve moved past that now and gotten down to the real meat of things. Though there¡¯s no need for us to concern ourselves with it, I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll work it out eventually.¡±

    ¡°Still, I¡¯d like to do what I can. While I don¡¯t know much about your city, I¡¯d like to see justice done.¡±

    Mostanto smiled at her. ¡°Your dedication is admirable. You¡¯ve done more than enough; don¡¯t you think you deserve a rest? I¡¯d practically be demanding one if I¡¯d worked as hard as you have.¡±

    To Derzina¡¯s growing annoyance, she realised he was trying to keep her out. The dishonesty annoyed her more than what he was trying to do. Did he really think she was too stupid to notice?

    ¡°I can rest later, once this is all over. Be honest with me, is there some reason why you don¡¯t want me to go in there?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re a sharp one,¡± Mostanto said with laughter in his voice, completely unashamed at his deception being exposed. ¡°I¡¯ll give you that. It¡¯s nothing serious, Xanathel just thought it would be simpler if he handled this himself without interruptions. Besides, I know your heart¡¯s in the right place but it¡¯s just like you said; you don¡¯t know much about this city. They¡¯re likely to spend hours arguing over the finer details, you¡¯re lucky you don¡¯t have to be part of it.¡± He shook his head. ¡°In all honesty, I envy you. I¡¯ll probably be out here the whole time.¡±

    Derzina weighed the value of being part of the negotiations against interrupting and trying to force herself into them. It was likely she¡¯d upset one or both of them, and given that she probably had little to offer to the discussion it seemed foolish to cause trouble over something like that.

    ¡°I suppose I can sit this one out.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your consideration, Lord Xanathel would¡¯ve been much more upset at me than you. Given that this was my one job in all this. You¡¯ve done amazingly by the way; you practically flipped the city on its head within a day.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t take much credit for that; it was the efforts of Xanathel and Gorthar that brought this about. As well as Inea listening to reason in the end. If she hadn¡¯t, I doubt we¡¯d be chatting like this.¡±

    ¡°True.¡± Mostanto gestured toward Inea¡¯s paladins. ¡°They¡¯d probably be after our heads at the very least, and I have more than enough to deal with as it is. Anyway, you¡¯re welcome to stay and chat if you¡¯d like.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Derzina said, ¡°but I have more important things to do.¡±

    Relatively pleasant as his company was, now that the situation within the city was in hand it was probably about time she paid Araveena another visit. The wizard¡¯s support was arguably more important than any of the gods.

    For all their power, they likely wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat Meztraxia without a way of severing his connection with the heart. Though, after having witnessed Gorthar¡¯s power, they might have more of a chance than she¡¯d initially thought.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    Mostanto pouted, doing his best to look hurt. ¡°Then I shall think of you until next we meet.¡±

    ¡°Alright, you do that,¡± Derzina said, coldly. That last line struck as her more creepy than charming, and she¡¯d rather not get too involved with Xanathel¡¯s followers. Though they were technically on the same side, she¡¯d prefer to remain impartial where possible. Leaving Mostanto behind without looking back, Derzina left the city.

    Without Atasimon to help her scale the wall, she was forced to get a soldier manning the walls to help her down with a rope but they recognised her, and complied without complaint. When she told them she wouldn¡¯t be long, they were even so kind as to await her return. She reached the base of the wall, and from there it was only a short walk to Araveena¡¯s tower.

    After all the conflict with the gods, the sight of the wizard¡¯s relatively simple home came as a relief. Though Araveena had not precisely agreed to help in the fight against Meztraxia, she had seemed amicable enough to the idea. If the gods of Brtet were all willing to work together, then surely the wizard would agree to join them. Once Derzina reached the tower, she called for Araveena and the door opened a few moments later.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you again,¡± Araveena said. ¡°If you¡¯ve come about your Demon Lord problem, I still need more time to consider it.¡±

    ¡°That is why I¡¯ve come, but I have some new information on the subject that I believe will force you to reconsider your position.¡±

    ¡°Go on then, I¡¯m listening.¡± The wizard crossed her arms, sounding intrigued.

    ¡°Inea has surrendered her hold over the city and agreed to share power with the other gods in a more equal fashion, which includes the matter of Meztraxia. Thus, I have come once more to beseech you for your aid. Will you not join our fight?¡±

    ¡°How strange,¡± Araveena said, brow furrowed in confusion, ¡°it sounds as if you¡¯re telling the truth, and yet I cannot fathom how you could have managed such a feat. Did you find some way to strip her of her free will and force her to do your bidding?¡±

    ¡°I suppose so, in a manner of speaking. Gorthar defeated her rather handily in single combat and she was forced to concede to our demands.¡±

    Derzina shifted uncomfortably, all too aware of how such a tactic might be perceived. If Araveena was anything like her, then she was sure to be unhappy with it.

    ¡°He attacked her?¡±

    ¡°He did, by his own choice. Though I bear some of the blame, as I was the one who demanded he involve himself in the first place.¡±

    ¡°How did she fare?¡± Araveena asked, voice tinged with concern. ¡°Is she injured?¡±

    ¡°Fortunately, despite her defeat, she wasn¡¯t seriously injured. For a time, I feared the battle could only end her in death, but I was able to convince her to see sense and give in before it came to that.¡±

    ¡°Good. Whatever miracle it was that allowed you to change her mind, it was well-timed. I would hate to have lost Inea, especially in a fight amongst those who should be allies.¡±

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Derzina said, ¡°but that¡¯s all in the past now. We must look to the future; will you join us?¡±

    ¡°I will. If Inea has gone over to your side, then I shall as well.¡±

    Derzina restrained a cheer, contenting herself instead with a smile. Defeating Meztraxia, the most difficult part of all, still lay before them. Now was no time to celebrate, that would have to wait until the Demon Lord¡¯s foul blood watered the corrupted soil. Only then could she finally rest.

    ¡°Wonderful,¡± Derzina said. ¡°You have my deepest gratitude. If there is anything you need once this is over and we¡¯re triumphant, then you have only to ask. I will do anything in my power.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate the thought, but that¡¯s really not necessary. This is my fight as much as yours and I¡¯m happy to help. Let me just get a few things together and I¡¯ll join you in the palace.¡±

    ¡°The palace?¡± Derzina asked.

    ¡°Is that not where we will be organising the city¡¯s defence from?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure at this stage, it¡¯s probably as a good a choice as any. Regardless of what they decide to do, I¡¯ll meet you there.¡±

    ¡°Then I suppose this is goodbye for the moment,¡± Araveena said, closing her door once Derzina finished saying her farewells.

    Once she was alone, Derzina took a deep breath as she struggled to remain calm. Excitement and dread filled her, combining to form a storm of emotion. Vengeance was nearly hers, yet potential disaster loomed ever closer. Chiding herself for getting so wrapped up in what might happen, Derzina refocused herself on the present; on what she could do now.

    Though she likely wouldn¡¯t play much of a role in the actual defence of the city, there was sure to be far more work than there were people to do it, and she would help however she could. Even discounting her desire to see Meztraxia destroyed, she didn¡¯t wish for the people of Brtet to suffer unnecessarily. It could never replace Ortesion in her heart, but her short time here had endeared it to her; feuding gods and all.

    Scaling the wall using the rope that had been left for her, Derzina re-entered the city and headed for Inea¡¯s palace.

 40 - Mending Bridges

    Derzina hurried to the palace only to slow when she saw that it was deserted. Neither Mostanto or a single Paladin of Inea remained, leaving the structure entirely unguarded. Confused, Derzina pushed the door open to find Inea sitting on the stairs below her throne. She still wore her armour, though she¡¯d removed her helmet and weapons. The goddess glanced up as Derzina entered, her expression lifeless.

    ¡°Have you come to pick the bones of my reign?¡± she asked. ¡°Because you¡¯re too late, there¡¯s nothing left for you to steal.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry for what happened, this was never my intention.¡± When Inea just stared despondently at the floor in lieu of replying, Derzina continued, ¡°I know it must have been terrible for you, but the worst is behind us. Now we can work together and defend the city.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing left that¡¯s worth defending, this city is doomed. Even if you defeat the demons, it will only end up a ruin. Though I doubt you¡¯ll even get that far with that traitor on your side, he¡¯ll stab you in the back the first chance he gets. Just like he did with me.¡±

    Though Derzina had hardly expected Inea to be pleased at losing control of her city, she hadn¡¯t expected her to take it quite so hard. The goddess seemed practically a shell of her former self. Most of what they had done was right and yet Derzina found that she pitied Inea. Even if the goddess¡¯ pride had overtaken her better sense, there was still good in her; she didn¡¯t deserve to be broken like this.

    Derzina dearly wished she could comfort Inea, for all the good that it was likely to do, but there simply wasn¡¯t time for wallowing in self-pity. Much as it pained her to do so, she needed Inea to get it together and work to protect the city. If she had been dealing with a mortal, Derzina likely would have allowed herself a gentler hand, but gods had to be held to a higher standard. Especially when there was so much at stake.

    ¡°Is that it then?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°You¡¯re forced to give up control of the city, so you abandon it altogether? The people who live here are still yours to defend; you have a responsibility, just like all the other gods. You can either live up to that or accept that whatever the flaws of Gorthar and Xanathel, you are the worst of them by far.¡±

    ¡°Then so be it. If the people of this city don¡¯t want me anymore, then the ungrateful creatures can burn for all I care. To think that they would turn on me after all I¡¯ve done for them over the years, even my own followers turned their backs on me.¡±

    Derzina could scarcely believe what she was hearing, where had Inea gotten such an impression? ¡°They¡¯ve done no such thing. I can¡¯t speak for the rest of Brtet¡¯s people, but your Paladins still believe in you. They even went so far as to try to stop Gorthar as he approached your palace, one of them nearly died for it.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous,¡± Inea said, angrily. ¡°I was humiliated out there, no one will want to follow me now. What faith could they possibly have in such a pathetic goddess?¡±

    To Derzina¡¯s dismay, she saw that even after Inea¡¯s defeat their pride still rendered them blind to the world. For all their efforts, it seemed the city¡¯s former ruler had learnt nothing. Anger rose within Derzina, at Inea, the other gods who had brought them to this situation and herself; they had all behaved like fools.

    ¡°No one thinks you¡¯re pathetic for being defeated by Gorthar. If there¡¯s anything that will make them think that about you, it¡¯s abandoning your people when they need you most.¡±

    Appealing to Inea¡¯s pride seemed the only way to salvage anything from the situation, distasteful a method as it was. ¡°Even if they don¡¯t respect you now, if you defend them from the demons; I¡¯m certain that they will love you more than ever.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure they will,¡± Inea said, ¡°for a time. But how long until they cast me aside yet again? I would rather leave Brtet to its deserved fate and seek out a new home, one where I shall be shown the respect I deserve. One where my supposed allies, such as Xanathel and yourself, do not work against me at every opportunity.¡±

    ¡°Do you truly care nothing for your subjects and the city you spent more than a century building with them?¡± Derzina asked, in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re content to leave all that to be destroyed?¡±

    Inea¡¯s hands dropped into her lap and she sat there for a while before replying, ¡°No, I suppose not. What happened out there will torment me for the rest of my days, but so would abandoning these people. However undeserving of my help they may be.¡±Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

    Derzina¡¯s relief was such that she felt a little unsteady at the sudden flood; Inea had seen sense at last. ¡°I thank you for your benevolence on behalf of the entire city. Even if your people forget all else that you have done for them, they shall remember this; I swear it.¡±

    ¡°We shall see. If you misliked my reign, I doubt you shall find Xanathel¡¯s any more agreeable.¡±

    Seeing little sense in putting much stock in Inea¡¯s hateful view, Derzina simply nodded along. ¡°Now that you¡¯ve agreed to defend the city, do you mind we use your palace as our headquarters?¡±

    ¡°You may as well, it¡¯s of little use for anything else now.¡±

    ¡°Good, then I and the others shall see you again soon to begin the planning. Araveena should be along shortly.¡±

    When Inea didn¡¯t reply, Derzina simply left the goddess to her thoughts and walked out of the palace. If she stayed much longer, it was only a matter of time before she said something to upset Inea and undo all the progress she¡¯d made. Inea¡¯s arrogant self-centred nature was already getting on Derzina¡¯s nerves, and it could only get worse. Best that she saved her patience for the meditation between gods that was sure to be required if they were all to work together.

    Taking advantage of a chair near the entrance to the palace gardens, Derzina sat back and relaxed. There would likely be little opportunity for her to do so in the coming days, so now seemed a good opportunity to take a breather.

    Though the path they¡¯d taken to reach this point was far from ideal, it had turned out well enough in the end. All the gods and the wizard working together offered the best chance they had of defeating Meztraxia. As crushing as their ultimate failure would be, assuming she survived it, she could take some solace in having done her utmost to achieve victory.

    For the first time in her life, Derzina felt truly satisfied. She had done the memory of Ortesia proud, even if no one else from Ortesion was left to witness it. That her goddess would never know of all she had done after the city fell brought her a pang of sadness, but she refused to let herself get caught up in such thinking. She still had a duty to fulfil, whether she liked it or not.

    Taking in the greenery around her, Derzina found the gardens a far more tranquil place without Mostanto pestering her. In hindsight the measures he¡¯d taken to demonstrate Inea¡¯s tyranny felt ridiculous, but she couldn¡¯t fault him for his intentions. The city could only improve from here, now that control was more evenly distributed. For all Inea¡¯s complaints, they were sure to reach an equilibrium soon. It likely meant there¡¯d be fewer places of beauty such as the gardens, but it was a small price to pay for the security and prosperity of Brtet¡¯s people.

    Whilst in the midst of enjoying the sunshine and her verdant surroundings, Derzina was interrupted by a voice in her head.

    ¡°I have returned,¡± Atasimon said, quiet and insubstantial like a whisper on the wind.

    ¡°At last,¡± Derzina said, filled with joy. ¡°It¡¯s most wonderful to have you back; I was beginning to worry that you would not return before Meztraxia arrived.¡±

    ¡°It was a near thing, I narrowly avoided not returning at all.¡±

    ¡°What happened? Did you expend too much of your power?¡±

    ¡°That was a part of it, calling out to Meztraxia as I did required almost all of it. In my weakened state I was very nearly drawn to the part of me trapped within the heart.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m most glad that you were able to avoid such a fate, I would hate to have lost you, and Meztraxia is powerful enough without having access to your full strength.¡±

    Atasimon laughed. ¡°Much as my vanity appreciates the compliment, even if he had all my power it would make little difference given how much he already possesses.¡±

    ¡°Still, Brtet can use all the aid it can muster. Especially your sage advice.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much of that I¡¯ll be able to offer, but I shall try. What has happened in my absence? You appear to be having an easy time of things.¡±

    ¡°It has been a most trying time in your absence,¡± Derzina said. ¡°The conflict between your son and Inea came close to open war within the city. For a time, I feared Inea might even be slain, but we were somehow able to make the best of things. Now the city is united and as ready to face Meztraxia as it can be, especially with your return.¡±

    ¡°It seems I missed much. I would very much have liked to witness how you turned this near disaster into such a miraculous victory, but no matter, I congratulate you on having done so well on your own. Hopefully we shall have the same luck against the Demon Lord and his army.¡±

    Such luck was probably too much to hope for, but Derzina was sure Atasimon knew that just as well as she did. ¡°The gods and Araveena shall be meeting in the palace later today to plan the city¡¯s defence and I had thought to join them, what do you think?¡±

    ¡°I think that wise. You should be able to help keep the peace amongst them as well tell them what you know of Meztraxia and his army.¡±

    ¡°Would you be willing to do the same? You likely have more insight to share than I. Or would that be asking too much, drained as you are?¡±

    ¡°I can handle speech, if required, though little more. Luring him here and advising how best to defeat him is about all I can offer to the war effort.¡±

    Much as Derzina hoped it wouldn¡¯t be necessary, it was reassuring to have Atasimon¡¯s support once more.

    ¡°Then that shall have to suffice, you¡¯ve already done a great deal to help. I would have died along with the rest of my city if it weren¡¯t for you.¡± Derzina¡¯s eyes misted as the gratitude within her overflowed. ¡°Thank you for that and everything else, I¡¯m so glad that you¡¯re back.¡±

    ¡°I only did what I had to, but you¡¯re welcome.¡±

    Pleasure brought a little life back to Atasimon¡¯s voice but not much, she still sounded as if she might vanish at any moment. Not wishing to overtax the goddess, Derzina suppressed her excitement and allowed her partner to rest.

 41 - Preparing the Defenses

    ¡°I say that Inea¡¯s Paladins should be dispersed amongst the militia, to better defend against the rest of his army,¡± Xanathel said, sitting at a table in one of the palace¡¯s many rooms with Derzina, Araveena and the other gods. ¡°Then we can focus on dealing with Meztraxia while my Paladins support us.¡±

    ¡°If my paladins are assisting the militia, then yours should be as well,¡± Inea said, icily.

    ¡°I believe my Paladins will be better utilised assisting us, their abilities lend themselves more to that than direct combat.¡±

    ¡°They hardly seem very useful then.¡±

    Xanathel shrugged. ¡°It is what it is. But I suppose a small bodyguard of your Paladins could remain behind to protect you and Atasimon, in the event of anything unforeseen happening.¡±

    Before Inea had a chance to argue further, Derzina took advantage of Xanathel¡¯s offer to interject. ¡°That handles the distribution of the Paladins then. Unless Gorthar has anything to add regarding his followers?¡±

    ¡°I have no Paladins of my own, my followers will fight with the other militia or tend to the wounded as their inclinations dictate.¡±

    Sensing that was the extent of what Gorthar had to say, Derzina moved on. ¡°I believe that¡¯s pretty much everything, unless anyone has something else they wish to discuss?¡±

    Though she looked upset, Inea abstained from speaking in favour of glaring at Xanathel who seemed unconcerned by her attention.

    ¡°Are we certain we¡¯ll be able to immobilise him long enough for my magic to take hold?¡± Araveena asked, clearly uncomfortable with her role in all this.

    ¡°As certain as we can be about any of this,¡± Derzina said. ¡°For all the power that we have available here, it means nothing if it gets absorbed by the heart.¡± She stood up and addressed the gods as a whole. ¡°I can¡¯t stress this enough; you must keep the use of your power against him to an absolute minimum. Save it for when we need it most, or you¡¯ll soon be all but helpless.¡±

    Derzina imagined that must be what had happened to Ortesia. Without knowing about the heart ahead of time, it would have been impossible for the goddess to predict that it would be capable of absorbing her power.

    ¡°Yes, yes,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°we¡¯re all well aware of what we need to do.¡±

    ¡°Good, then I believe all that remains is to spend the rest of today and tomorrow preparing. Atasimon assures me that he¡¯s about two days away at present. But be cautious, advance elements of his army might be upon us at any moment.¡±

    Gorthar grunted. ¡°I¡¯m not worried about them.¡±

    With little left to discuss, the meeting broke up and everyone went their separate ways. Despite the arguments, things had gone better than Derzina had hoped. Their plan was sound enough and she¡¯d managed to get through the whole process without Atasimon¡¯s intervention. Even if it had taken them until close to midnight to work through it all.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Inea asked, once the other gods were gone and Derzina was on her way out.

    ¡°Nowhere in particular, probably just to look over the city¡¯s walls, why?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s best that you stay here. This is our headquarters after all and you¡¯re the one Meztraxia is after. Or at least, the goddess within you is.¡±

    ¡°True, I suppose I may as well stay ten. Thank you for the invitation, Lady Inea. Your palace is a most beautiful residence, truly the jewel of the city.¡±

    Inea sneered at her. ¡°Save your flattery, I¡¯m well aware of how little respect you have for me. There¡¯s no point pretending otherwise.¡±

    Derzina¡¯s first impulse was to insist that she had every respect for Inea¡¯s position, but it simply wasn¡¯t true. After how she¡¯d treated her people and the terrible things she¡¯d said, Derzina had little fondness or respect for the arrogant goddess.

    ¡°I may not always agree with you,¡± Derzina said, choosing her words carefully, ¡°but I respect your insights and your wishes to the greatest extent I can without alienating any of the others.¡±

    ¡°You have a great deal of conviction for a mortal. It¡¯s admirable in a way, no matter how misplaced it might be. Yet for all your righteousness, in the end, all you will bring to my city is ruin.¡± She strode past Inea, pausing at the door. ¡°I shall enjoy seeing everything you wished for turn to ash.¡±

    As she watched Inea leave, Derzina found herself at a loss as to how the goddess could have become so hateful in their short association. It was only when Derzina compared Inea losing her city to her own loss that she appreciated the depth of Inea¡¯s feeling. Perhaps to Inea this was also the worst thing that had ever happened in her life, such that it eclipsed all other sorrow she¡¯d ever felt.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    That the two incidents could have similar impact spoke to the sheer extent of Inea¡¯s arrogance, but Derzina hardly needed further confirmation of that. One had only to look at the statues throughout the city, or the sprawling palace in which they stood. It was incredible that even now, beyond a few rooms step aside for the war council and Inea herself, it was unoccupied. Once Meztraxia was defeated, they¡¯d have to see about having it put to better use.

    Irritated by Inea¡¯s conduct after the meeting, Derzina found the constant reminders of the goddess throughout the palace served only to annoy her further. Wishing to clear her head, Derzina walked the streets of Brtet. She rationalised it as inspecting the city¡¯s defences, but that was just an excuse. All she truly desired was a little peace before the coming storm. Most of the people she passed were engaged in errands in service to the war effort, such as ferrying supplies or weapons.

    There was a frantic edge to their activity, and she was sure they must be afraid. She¡¯d been terrified when she learnt of the demon army outside the walls of Ortesion. Yet for all their fear, they went about their duties in an orderly and efficient manner. Afraid as they must be, Derzina saw nothing that gave her reason to doubt their resolve.

    Seeing an elderly man hunched beneath his heavy burden, Derzina stepped in to help. ¡°Do you mind if I give you a hand with that?¡± she asked.

    ¡°By all means,¡± he said, giving her a weary smile. As he was shifting some of the load to her, he seemed to recognise her for the first time. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you, the one from outside the city. Do you really have a god inside you?¡±

    ¡°I realise it might be hard to believe, but yes, I do.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s anything like the ones we have around here, then I can¡¯t say I envy you.¡±

    They finished distributing the weight and she followed him down the street.

    ¡°It¡¯s taken a little getting used to,¡± Derzina said. ¡°I never would have imagined such a thing was even possible before it happened. Though it¡¯s hardly all been great, I¡¯m still glad to have her.¡±

    ¡°Well good for you then. I¡¯m sure it must have its benefits.¡±

    ¡°Indeed, our bond offers many advantages. Lady Atasimon is the only reason I¡¯m still alive today.¡±

    ¡°I hope she can help our city the same way she helped you.¡±

    He directed her into a building and they both set their loads down inside.

    ¡°That¡¯ll be all,¡± the old man said, as he sat down beside his cargo to catch his breath. ¡°Thank you very much for your help.¡±

    ¡°It was no problem, I¡¯m just happy to do what I can.¡±

    As she was leaving, she saw Mostanto waiting for her at the door. He seemed to have made quite a habit of it since she¡¯d arrived in Brtet and she was getting rather tired of it.

    ¡°Did you really follow me all the way here?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Of course not, I was just passing by when I saw you helping that man. You¡¯re quite a helpful sort, aren¡¯t you?¡±

    Derzina walked out to stand before him, distinctly unamused. ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything better to be doing than wasting my time? I would have thought a Paladin would have more duties to attend to, especially with the coming battle.¡±

    ¡°No need to worry about that,¡± Mostanto said, ¡°I¡¯m attending to my duties just fine. No matter how it might seem to an outsider like yourself.¡±

    ¡°Is that it then? Your job is to watch me?¡±

    ¡°I never said that, though the view has given me little cause to complain.¡±

    Nor did he have to say it, his hints were far from subtle. What was the point of letting her know? Frivolous as he may be, she found it hard believe that he¡¯d let her know he was following her solely for his own amusement. If his Xanathel still wanted him to watch her, then there must be an important reason for it. Was Mostanto trying to warn her about something in his own roundabout fashion?

    ¡°Do you need something from me? Or have you simply come to shower me with compliments?¡±

    ¡°Would that be such a crime?¡± Mostanto asked.

    ¡°Given all the more important things you could be doing to protect the city, it certainly approaches one. But to be frank, I tire of these games. If you have something to say to me, then speak clearly and spare me these meandering vagaries you seem so fond of.¡±

    The Paladins nostrils crinkled, as if disturbed by a foul smell. ¡°If you insist on draining all the fun from it, then I suppose I must do as you say if only to spare myself a rather tedious conversation.¡±

    All humour faded from him, and he drew her gently but firmly aside. ¡°I have been watching you for much of your time here, and I¡¯m convinced that you care more about Brtet than any of our gods. Before I tell you what I know, you must swear that you will never repeat it to anyone.¡±

    For all his facades and skulking about, it seemed Mostanto had an honest heart. Not that Derzina had expected any less. ¡°I swear that I will tell no one of this.¡±

    Licking his lips, Mostanto checked to make sure no one was watching them before speaking in a hushed tone. ¡°The moment the battle is over, Lord Xanathel intends to kill Inea along with his Paladins. If you wish to prevent Lord Xanathel from holding sole dominion over the city, then Inea must strike before he has a chance to do so.¡±

    ¡°Why would you tell me all this?¡± Derzina asked, horrified. ¡°If you speak the truth, then you have utterly betrayed the god you swore to serve.¡±

    ¡°I know,¡± Mostanto said, eyes downcast, ¡°and I shall bear that stain for the rest of my days. Yet I will bear it proudly rather than allow such a terrible crime to take place. I have never liked Inea and I owe her no loyalty, but if we are to build a better future for our city then we cannot begin by breaking the peace you forged for the sake of eliminating my lord¡¯s sole rival.¡±

    ¡°Then why tell me this and not Inea?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯d never trust me. I doubt she¡¯d trust you either, but you at least have a chance of succeeding. If not, you or Atasimon may still be able to save her. All I ask is that you try.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for entrusting me with this, you¡¯re a more honourable man than I thought. I promise that I shall do all I can.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all that I ask. No matter what happens, your arrival here was the single greatest event in the city¡¯s history. I only hope that it all ends well.¡±

    ¡°As do I.¡±

    They said their farewells, and Mostanto faded into crowd.

    ¡°Do you think we can trust him?¡± Derzina asked, turning inward. Her inclination was that they could, but this was far too important a matter for her not to consult Atasimon.

    ¡°His intentions seem good, though I am loath to trust one of my son¡¯s servants. They¡¯re likely to be every bit as devious as he is. Still, you should not let the bad blood in my family influence you overmuch. You know this Paladin far better than I; do you trust him?¡±

    ¡°I do, he has been honourable in his dealings with me and I believe his heart is in the right place.¡±

    ¡°Then that will have to suffice for us both, his account was certainly believable.¡±

 42 - Into the Breach

    ¡°The siege mages report that their charges are primed and ready, my lord,¡± Vont said, standing by Meztraxia¡¯s side.

    ¡°Good,¡± Meztraxia said. ¡°Any trouble with deserters?¡± He was primarily concerned with Nostlinum¡¯s troops, but it was best not to say so here where others may overhear.

    ¡°A pair of soldiers were caught trying to leave the camp without permission, other than that morale is high, my lord.¡±

    ¡°What happened to those soldiers?¡±

    ¡°Already dealt with by their commanding officers, my lord.¡±

    Meztraxia took a deep breath and nodded. Their preparations were complete; all that remained was to assault the city ahead. Atasimon had to know they were coming and Meztraxia¡¯s army had been on high alert for any possible sorties by the humans or their gods, but there had been nothing. Whatever the goddess was planning, she seemed content to let Meztraxia come to them.

    Even at a glance the city before them was considerably larger than the last he¡¯d taken, yet Meztraxia felt not the least bit concerned. While their casualties were sure to be higher this time, he was certain of their eventual victory. With the heart, and the strength stolen from the goddesses, he had nothing to fear from gods or any other being in this world. If every soldier in his army was killed, then he would just have to destroy the city on his own.

    Glorying in his power, Meztraxia conjured a beam of light which carved a furrow in the ground. Vont¡¯s eyes widened, but he said nothing. That small demonstration alone was enough to strengthen Meztraxia¡¯s resolve, yet he knew he was capable of so much more. He looked forward to his inevitable clash with the goddess of shadow and whatever divine allies she¡¯d found for herself, then he would finally be able to use his power to the utmost.

    ¡°Vont,¡± Meztraxia said, ¡°assemble the men for a speech before we begin.¡±Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    His aide hurried off to do his will, and as Meztraxia waited for his troops to assemble, he went over what he wanted to say in his head. Assuring the men of their victory was imperative, but it was also essential that he made them understand the importance of what they were doing. The soldiers who¡¯d been with him during the last siege probably didn¡¯t have too many doubts he needed to worry about; it was Nostlinum¡¯s untried troops that he was concerned with.

    If they faltered, they were sure to get themselves and others killed. Assaulting the humans¡¯ cities was a great risk, and they could not afford anything that might jeopardise their chances. Even if he were to triumph on his own, it wouldn¡¯t be much of a victory. Not for himself, or for the sake of rallying more soldiers to his cause. While there were many who were willing to die to see the humans destroyed, there were far fewer who would throw their lives away for the dim hope of seeing that accomplished.

    Once his army was arrayed before him, Meztraxia took a breath and drew on a little of his stolen divine power to enhance the volume of his voice. ¡°We have come here today to continue the great war our ancestors began more than a century ago, when our world was still whole. A great deal has changed since that fateful day, when our invasion first began. But one important truth has remained constant; peace and prosperity for ourselves and for our children, can only be won by shedding the blood of humanity. Only once the blood of every man, woman and child of that wretched race has been spilled can the living and the dead know peace.

    He paused to look out at the sea of faces, wearing their bright armour and arrayed in formation. To his grim delight, naked hatred was reflected in the features of every man and woman before him. ¡°We made war upon their world for the sake of surviving the death of ours, and they repaid us with an attempt at snuffing out our entire people. Even now they hoard their protective magics for themselves while we are left to suffer.¡±

    Meztraxia made a sharp gesture and raised the volume of his voice further still. ¡°I say enough! Never again shall they decide our fate, never again shall we suffer at their hands! We will wipe them from the face of this world, and make it our own!¡±

    At his next gesture the horns sounded, calling his people to battle. A great cry sprung up from the assembled soldiers, drowning out the rest of the signals, but it didn¡¯t matter; they all knew what to do. Meztraxia¡¯s personal guard fell in behind him as he marched toward the city at the forefront of his army to bring death and destruction upon the humans.

 43 - Death Comes

    In the leadup to the coming battle, Derzina tried to keep busy by assisting with the defender¡¯s preparations where she could. Yet no amount of work could truly distract her from Meztraxia¡¯s approach. Either Derzina would avenge her fallen city, or die by the same hands that had brought it low. The warning came from Atasimon that the demons were nearly upon them and Derzina relayed the news to the gods. Every soldier the city could muster took their positions and the waiting began.

    Breathless with a combination of excitement and dread, Derzina could hardly contain herself. Were she not bound by both good judgement and their plans, she¡¯d have left the city and hurled herself at the approaching host. The fear of death seemed a paltry thing before the emotions raging within her.

    She sat in a chair in Inea¡¯s study, part of an underground wing of the palace which they¡¯d determined as the most defensible part of the city. If everything went according to plan, then the other gods would waylay Meztraxia as he pushed forward to claim the last of Atasimon¡¯s essence. It was far from a certain thing, but it was the best chance they had of defeating him.

    In theory Derzina¡¯s role was by far the easiest, all she had to do was wait down here and the others would take care of the rest. In practice, she already found the thought of sitting back while others were fighting and dying excruciating. Once the battle began it would only get worse.

    ¡°Have you fought in many battles before?¡± Derzina asked, turning to Atasimon for support.

    ¡°Only a few. After the battle against the Demon King, this is easily the most important.¡±

    ¡°This must seem like nothing to you then, compared to fighting against the Demon King himself.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure the difference is as great as you imagine it to be. This battle may very well decide the fate of humanity, much as our fight all those years ago did. And while the Demon King was far more powerful than a mere Demon Lord, we also have but three gods left to oppose him rather than almost every divine being of Oelindrey.¡±

    Though Derzina was sure the goddess was just trying to reassure her, the idea that this battle might someday be remembered with reverence approaching the slaying of the Demon King brought a certain sense of wonder. She had dreamed of being part of the annals of history as a devoted defender of Ortesion and its goddess, but even her wildest imaginings had never placed her as a defender of humanity working alongside gods.

    Entranced by this endless interplay of hopes and fears, Derzina was caught completely by surprise when someone knocked on the door and practically leapt out of her chair. ¡°What is it?¡± Derzina called through the door.

    ¡°I¡¯ve just been told the demons have reached the walls,¡± Araveena said. ¡°The battle has begun.¡±

    ¡°Understood.¡± Derzina checked her loaned sword and armour for what had to be at least the fiftieth time, finding them to be to her satisfaction just as before. It made her feel a little foolish but she couldn¡¯t help herself. Green armour clinking, she paced back and forth as she waited for the next tidings of battle. After what felt like a painfully long time, they finally arrived. Though not from a source she would have expected, much to her consternation.

    ¡°Something¡¯s wrong,¡± Atasimon said, ¡°he¡¯s already here.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Meztraxia, he¡¯s¡­ I¡¯m having a hard trouble pinning down his precise location but he¡¯s very close.¡±

    Derzina was running for the door when she heard cries of pain and steel striking steel. Golden light appeared around the doorframe and she stopped dead. There was no one here with magic like that, it was just like¡­ Ortesia¡¯s light.

    For a moment hope stirred within her, could Ortesia be alive after all? Only for it to be crushed by her own thoughts; Ortesia couldn¡¯t possibly have survived. If her power was present then it could only be Meztraxia who was wielding it. She didn¡¯t think she could hate the Demon Lord more than she already did, but his latest sacrilege brought forth such fury that it felt as if fire flowed through her veins.

    ¡°Stop,¡± Atasimon commanded, as Derzina was on the verge of bolting out there in heedless rage. ¡°I know that you want to bring him to justice, but we have to follow the plan. We cannot allow our personal feelings to defeat us, not again.¡±

    Derzina drew her blade, clutching the hilt with such force that her hand hurt. As angry as Derzina was, Atasimon was right; they had to wait. Even if beyond this room people were fighting and, by the sounds of the screams, dying. An impact shook the entire structure and Derzina flinched. Unless Meztraxia had grown enormously in power since they¡¯d last met, the cause could only be Gorthar. Figuring that battle must be approaching its end, one way or another, Derzina decided she¡¯d waited long enough.

    Flinging the door wide, she found the corridor beyond empty but for one of Xanathel¡¯s Paladins lying at the end of it. The poor woman was curled up in agony, covering her eyes with her hands. If she¡¯d been looking at Ortesia¡¯s stolen light directly then she¡¯d likely never see again. Tragic as it was, Derzina had no time for pity. She ran out, hopping over the fallen Paladin, to see yet more Paladins locked in battle with Meztraxia¡¯s spiked constructs. Unlike the last time she¡¯d seen them, the Demon Lord¡¯s creations were easily the size of a man and seemed to be fighting on equal terms with the Paladins.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Derzina stabbed at the closest creature, trying to find a weak point in its armoured form, but all she managed to do was get it to turn on her instead. Fortunately, it was an opportunity the Paladin facing it took full advantage of. A thin stream of darkness shot from their hand and connected with the back of the creature¡¯s head. As its claws slashed at Derzina, its head crumpled inward and it fell to the floor, where it expired in a matter of moments.

    Within the tight confines of the building, the fighting was quick and vicious. Derzina watched helplessly as the visor of one of the Paladins was smashed open and the demonic construct ripped straight into their skull. In less than a minute, they destroyed the last of Meztraxia¡¯s minions albeit at the cost of several dead or injured Paladins. Thanks to their protection and prowess, Derzina was unscathed when the survivors burst out of the corridor into the larger room beyond where the battle still raged.

    Inea and Xanathel, both wielding pollaxes, fought alongside each other against Meztraxia while Gorthar was doubled over in the corner, his robes wet with blood as he clutched his stomach. The Demon Lord¡¯s armour was crumpled over his right arm, which hung limp at his side, but he was holding off the gods using the light and shadow that enshrouded him, with a sword in his hand and protected by a hard, purple shell formed from his magic.

    The two gods drove the Demon Lord across the room at speed, the three of them moving with such fluidity it seemed more a dance than a battle. Xanathel struck high, while Inea struck low only for their weapons to be deflected by Meztraxia¡¯s stolen divine power. He hopped atop a large piece of fallen stolen, slashing at them with blades of golden light. Looking out at the battle, she struggled to even follow, Derzina felt helpless. The Paladins who¡¯d accompanied her apparently felt the same way, as they stood and watched the gods clash with the Demon Lord.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Araveena hissed, sheltering behind a pillar.

    ¡°Sorry, I couldn¡¯t just sit there and wait.¡±

    ¡°You could at least try to stay out of sight,¡± Araveena said, dashing over to Derzina. ¡°It¡¯s you he¡¯s after.¡±

    ¡°He knows where I am, hiding will make no difference.¡± Nonetheless, she let the wizard drag her behind one of the pillars that it might afford them some measure of protection. From there she watched as the Demon Lord, perhaps galvanised by Derzina¡¯s presence, went on the offensive. A wave of intertwined light and shadow fell upon Inea, obscuring her completely, while Meztraxia turned his focus to Xanathel.

    Using only his good arm, he deflected the head of Xanathel¡¯s weapon with his sword and drove it downward. He stomped down on it and his opponent tried in vain to pull it free. Xanathel abandoned his weapon, using his free hands to spew darkness upon the Demon Lord.

    It melted right through the purple shell surrounding Meztraxia, only to be consumed by the mist that emanated from the Demon Lord. Unperturbed by the torrent of darkness capable of disintegrating steel and flesh alike, the demon in his black and purple armour slashed at the god¡¯s exposed face with his blade.

    Ceasing the flow of darkness, Xanathel danced back and only received a long cut along his cheek. But the Demon Lord was far from finished, he continued to hack and stab at the unarmed god. Powerless, Xanathel gave ground easily, dodging and weaving, until he found himself pressed against a wall.

    Abandoning all pretence of grace, he raised his armoured forearms to protect his head. Inelegant as it was, it was a defence Meztraxia found difficult to break with only one arm. After a few ineffectual swings of his blade, he paused for a moment and brought another of his full-sized soldiers into being. Unlike the ones Derzina encountered earlier, its features were clearly defined and there was a weight to its presence. It leapt on the cowering Xanathel and, using its entire bodyweight, pulled one of the god¡¯s arms aside enough to give Meztraxia a clear opening.

    Struggling against the demon as he lowered his head to protect his face, Xanathel was hammered to the ground as Meztraxia brought the pommel of his sword down on the god¡¯s head. As the Demon Lord knelt down, surely seeking to finish the struggling god, Inea charged forth from the maelstrom of gold and black at Meztraxia¡¯s back.

    Her once magnificent suit of green-silver steel was riddled with cracks and marred by her own blood. Only her weapon was undamaged, the metal-clad shaft held high as she emerged and brought the hammerhead down on Meztraxia¡¯s back. Caught totally unaware, the blow caved in his backplate and sent him to the floor. He tried to regain his feet while light and shadow gathered to defend him once more, but Inea didn¡¯t let up. Sweeping aside his paltry protection, her next strike slammed down and he screamed in agony.

    Purple mist leaked from his armour and Derzina was about to shout a warning when Gorthar, the front of his robes torn enough to expose the deep gash in his belly, crossed the room in a few bounding steps and brought a solid block of stone down atop the Demon Lord. The crunch of breaking steel and bone filled the room, and Derzina clapped Araveena on the shoulder.

    ¡°Go.¡±

    Taking her meaning immediately, the wizard ran out as the demon continued to struggle in spite of the ruined body surely concealed beneath the stone. Araveena pulled back her sleeves and removed her gloves, revealing wooden arms covered in dimly glowing sigils of every colour. Once she reached the Demon Lord¡¯s side, she touched the purple mist with her bare hands and it froze in mid-air. She made incredibly rapid, seemingly nonsensical motions through the air, her hands sometimes seeming to phase right through each other. As she worked, the colour of the mist cycled rapidly through all manner of hues and Araveena¡¯s glow grew brighter until the entire room shone with her radiance.

    ¡°Is it working?¡± Derzina asked of Atasimon, not daring to distract Araveena.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, all I can sense is chaos. There¡¯s certainly something happening, but the stolen portion of my essence feels no closer than before. Wait, I can feel Meztraxia¡¯s presence fading. That must be a good sign.¡±

    The Demon Lord¡¯s struggles ceased as Araveena¡¯s light grew brighter still. She was muttering to herself as everyone else looked on in silence, afraid of disturbing her work. The wizard shouted something of which Derzina caught only a syllable or two before she was blinded by a flash of colour and lost consciousness.

 44 - From the Ashes

    When Derzina awoke, she was still in the underground wing of Inea¡¯s palace, but most of the ceiling was missing. Where there had once been tons of stone overhead, now there was only the night sky high above. Derzina realised, with a sense of growing awe, that it was not only the ceiling that had vanished; almost the entirety of the palace had gone with it.

    With no one else in sight, Derzina addressed the goddess within her. ¡°What happened?¡±

    She looked over the debris of the battle that had taken place here while she waited for a reply. But none came, nor could she sense Atasimon¡¯s presence. With no idea what to do next, Derzina sat down and thought. Something had happened with the Heart of Imistala, that much was clear. Had it somehow consumed Meztraxia, the gods and Araveena? It seemed the most logical explanation. Even the Paladins who¡¯d accompanied here were gone, yet she alone had been spared? Why?

    Finding precious few answers and entirely too many questions in her own thoughts, Derzina left the room. There had to be something or someone out there who could explain what had happened. She made her way back to the city proper at a slow pace as her limbs felt unusually heavy and searched the place where the palace had once stood.

    There wasn¡¯t a soul to be found, human or demon. She couldn¡¯t see anyone and there wasn¡¯t a sound to be heard in the city around her. Yet she found herself unable to accept that it could be deserted; no matter how apparent it became that there was no one here, she kept expecting to run into someone at any moment. Never in her life had she felt so directionless, this eclipsed even the loss of Ortesia. At least then she¡¯d had some idea of what to do.

    She searched and searched, until she came to a breach in the outer wall. All that remained of the great battle that had been fought here were bloodstains, broken or abandoned armaments and debris from the wall. Many had fallen here judging by all that they¡¯d left behind, yet not a single body remained.

    The reality of the vanished population slowly sunk in and she considered leaving the city. But to go where? She had nothing else left in the world. Were there even still people out there? Whatever event had stolen away the humans and demons here might extend to the entire world.

    Much as it horrified her, she couldn¡¯t deny the possibility. That thought, the idea that she might have had a hand in wiping all life from the world, was what finally broke her. She simply sat down in the rubble and stopped.

    The resolve that had sustained her all this time was gone, now she couldn¡¯t even muster enough willpower to keep moving. Her mind showed her the horrors that the fall of her city had brought, both real and imagined, but she didn¡¯t feel the slightest hint of sorrow. Such things were beyond her right now.

    She didn¡¯t know how long she sat there, doing nothing and thinking of nothing; being nothing. At some point she heard a voice upon the wind, a wordless murmur. Thinking it some trick of her mind, she remained as she was. She was done with giving credence to illusions, especially those born of her own wishes. That the voice may be real never entered her mind, she had too little hope to even entertain such a possibility. Yet when it next came, the sound was distinct and undeniable.

    ¡°Why are you here?¡± the voice asked, its pitch that of a child.

    Which was precisely what Derzina saw when she turned around. A little girl, her every feature formed of iridescent light, stood before Derzina.

    ¡°Why am I here?¡± Derzina asked, repeating the question after the few moments it took her to find her voice. It took her longer still to formulate an answer, though the girl seemed content to wait. ¡°I came to Brtet to kill Meztraxia, after he destroyed my home.¡±

    The little girl shook her head, disagreeing with Derzina¡¯s assertion. ¡°Why are you out here instead of within me like the others?¡¯ There was no hint of reproach in her tone, only curiosity.

    Within her? Had she absorbed every other person within the city? ¡°I don¡¯t know. Why are they inside you? What did you do?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. When I woke, this is how things were.¡±

    ¡°Are you Imistala?¡± Derzina asked. The person the heart had been named for seemed as likely as anyone.

    ¡°I might be. Who is Imistala?¡±

    ¡°I think she was a wizard who died a long time ago and the person who made the heart that must have created you named it after her.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m dead. Am I a wizard?¡±

    ¡°Probably not. If I had to guess, I would say you were a god.¡±

    ¡°A god¡­ What¡¯s that? And why would you think I am one?¡±

    ¡°Gods are beings born from the world itself, just as you appear to have been. Though you would be the first since the merging more than a century ago.¡±This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    ¡°Are you a god?¡± the girl asked.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m only a mortal. Nothing more than a normal human being.¡±

    ¡°Oh. Do you like gods?¡± the new god asked, her voice bright with hope.

    ¡°I did, once. Many of them are the allies of humanity, the sole reason why we were able to survive in the new world. I used to think they were so much better than us, but, other than their divine power, they seem no greater than mortals.¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯re equals?¡±

    Derzina shrugged. ¡°As much as we can be when you could destroy me at a whim.¡± Beginning to wake from her stupor, Derzina grew tired of the child¡¯s questions and moved on to the pressing matter at hand. ¡°You said the people of this city were inside you now? Can you bring them back?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s possible, I can¡¯t really say if I can or cannot without trying. But why should I bring them back?¡±

    ¡°This is their home, the humans and gods at least; it¡¯s where they belong.¡±

    ¡°Where do I belong? Is this also my home?¡±

    ¡°If you wish it to be. It appears you were born here, so it would make sense. Though if you wish to live here, then that¡¯s all the more reason to release the people of Brtet. Otherwise you¡¯ll be living here alone.¡± Derzina had no idea if that was something the new god would care about, but it seemed worth a try.

    ¡°What about the others?¡± the little girl asked. ¡°The ones who aren¡¯t humans or gods?¡±

    ¡°The demons can stay where they are,¡± Derzina said, with steel in her voice, ¡°the world is better off without them.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t they also have homes?¡± For the first time, the god spoke with a fraction of judgement intermingled with her curiosity.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure they do, but they tried to destroy Brtet and they already destroyed my home. They have no right to them anymore.¡±

    ¡°Why did they do that?¡±

    Derzina¡¯s honesty compelled her to tell the new god about the wizards¡¯ attempt at destroying the demons¡¯ world, but that would only complicate things and do nothing to improve her position. Yet, how else was she supposed to answer? Spinning a lie from whole cloth seemed a step too far unless she had no other option, so she settled for a partial truth.

    ¡°They hate that we¡¯re able to live freely in our cities, protected from the harmful effects of this tainted world, and seek to destroy us out of jealousy.¡±

    ¡°Could you not simply share your cities then?¡±

    Raising her voice, Derzina replied without thinking. ¡°We built these cities with our own hands and it is our gods that defend them, why should we share them with our enemies?¡±

    Once she was done speaking, she immediately regretted what she¡¯d said and expected the goddess to question everything anew.

    ¡°Then it can only be one or the other? The humans or the demons?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right, there¡¯s no way for us to coexist.¡±

    ¡°Then I should destroy them, even though they¡¯ve done me no harm?¡±

    Much as she wanted to answer yes, Derzina could not rationalise it as anything resembling the right choice. Twisting the impressionable god, so recently born into this world, to her own ends was something she could not stomach.

    ¡°I suppose not. This is no fight of yours.¡±

    ¡°No? Then what is? Who am I to fight?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s up to you to decide, I don¡¯t think anyone can decide it for you. What do you want from life?¡±

    ¡°For now,¡± the girl said, ¡°all I wish for is knowledge. Knowledge of myself and the world around me. Can you provide me that?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t say I¡¯m especially knowledgeable but I will answer any of your questions that I can on one condition; you will release the humans and the gods contained within you.¡±

    ¡°Agreed, then let us start from the beginning.¡± The little goddess launched into a long series of questions, starting with many of the more mundane aspects of the world. Thusly Derzina passed several hours, answering all that she could until her head ached and felt as if it were stuffed with cloth. Only then did she pause.

    ¡°Do you understand?¡± she asked.

    ¡°No,¡± the goddess said, ¡°but I¡¯m beginning to.¡±

    ¡°Good, I¡¯m glad to be of service. Will you release them now? I swear I will continue to help you where I can, I simply wish for them to return home as soon as possible.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± the goddess said, speaking with far more confidence than she did when they first met, ¡°though before I do, I have two more questions for you. Who am I? And who are you? There will be many people here soon, many names, and I wish to know ours.¡±

    ¡°I am Derzina Omun,¡± Derzina said, bowing her head in greeting. ¡°I don¡¯t know your name. I rather doubt you have one.¡±

    ¡°Then how do I get one?¡±

    ¡°Normally your parents would name you. In your case that doesn¡¯t seem to apply. I was involved in your creation, so I suppose that makes me the closest thing you have to a parent in this world.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯ll give me a name?¡± the little goddess asked eagerly.

    ¡°I will. Though you must give me a few moments to think.¡± Naming a god was, of course, quite outside anything she¡¯d ever done before. She came up with a few choices, but none of them sounded right to her, nor did it seem fair to arbitrarily assign a name to god who was quite capable of making their own decisions. ¡°I don¡¯t suppose you have any idea of what sort of name you¡¯d like?¡±

    ¡°No. What sort of name is one supposed to have? What is the choice of a name based on?¡±

    ¡°Well, my name in part reflects where I came from. My second name, Omun, was one borne by all of my immediate family.¡±

    ¡°Your family? Does that mean your parents?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± That had been one of the many things she¡¯d explained in part to the little girl.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a family,¡± the goddess stated, without feeling.

    ¡°I know,¡± Derzina said, an idea forming, ¡°but you were born here in the city of Brtet. Though it¡¯s rather crude, what do you think of the name Brtetsia?¡±

    ¡°That will let people know where I came from?¡±

    ¡°More or less. Do you like it?¡±

    ¡°Well enough.¡±

    ¡°Then so be it, from this day forward you shall be known as Brtetsia.¡± When the newly named goddess frowned, Derzina immediately worried she¡¯d done something to upset her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I thought you liked it.¡±

    ¡°I do. It¡¯s just that if you¡¯re my parent, or something to close to that, shouldn¡¯t I bear your name as well?¡±

    ¡°I suppose you¡¯re right.¡± It didn¡¯t seem like it could do any harm to give the goddess a second name, it¡¯s not like she had any family left to complain about it. ¡°Then I name you Brtetsia Omun.¡±

    ¡°Brtetsia Omun,¡± the goddess echoed, speaking slowly as if savouring every syllable of her new name. ¡°Good, I have a name. Now I shall fulfil my part of our agreement.¡±

    ¡°Wait,¡± Derzina said, raising her hand, ¡°before you do, let¡¯s put you somewhere out of the way for the moment. Things will be simpler if they don¡¯t see you until they¡¯re ready.¡±

    ¡°As you wish.¡±

    Brtetsia allowed herself to be led away and Derzina took her to an intact out of the way little building that didn¡¯t look to be in use. After making sure she¡¯d be okay to wait in there, Derzina closed the door and told her to release the humans.

 45 - Into the Great Beyond

    The return of Brtet¡¯s inhabitants was a far gentler event than whatever had occurred beneath Inea¡¯s palace, when there was still a palace. Brtetsias¡¯ control was fortunately sufficient that she deposited all the gods close to Derzina that she might explain to them what had happened. Or at least those few parts of it that she understood.

    As she was doing so, she felt a jolt of panic; Atasimon had not returned. Trying to keep calm, she paused in her explanation for a moment and considered immediately returning to Brtetsia. But reason prevailed, and she decided that if Atasimon had waited this long she could wait a little longer.

    Resuming her hurried recounting of events, Derzina found that Inea and Xanathel followed along just fine, while Gorthar limited himself mostly to groans and grunts. She asked him if they shouldn¡¯t attend to his wounds first, but he waved her off, claiming to be fine.

    Once she¡¯d told Inea the broad strokes of what had happened, the goddess made a quick announcement to the many people of Brtet who were doubtless rather confused at this point. Inea told them a simplified version of what had happened, putting much emphasis on their victory, and little on any of the more confusing details. She concluded by asking that they all return to their homes and wait for the next announcement. Only then did Derzina reveal Brtetsia to the assembled gods.

    The diminutive goddess stepped out before her assembled peers; her eyes bright with interest.

    ¡°Hello,¡± she said, ¡°I am Brtetsia Omun, named by Derzina Omun for the city of Brtet in which I was born. What are your names?¡±

    ¡°I am Inea, Lady of the Splendorous Host,¡± Inea said, cutting off Xanathel as he opened his mouth. ¡°And this was once my city, before it was stolen from me by this scoundrel.¡± She gestured towards Xanathel, who only smiled politely at the insult.

    ¡°While I have the honour of being Xanathel,¡± the dark-haired god said, ¡°Lord of the Creeping Dark.¡±

    They both paused at that point to give Gorthar a chance to introduce himself.

    ¡°I¡¯ve had enough of bickering children,¡± he muttered, ¡°let me die in peace.¡± Still muttering under his breath, he staggered off on his own. Derzina considered going after him, but he was sure to refuse her aid and she didn¡¯t want to leave Brtetsia alone with the other two gods.

    Brtetsia turned to Derzina and asked, ¡°Am I supposed to have a title like that?¡±

    ¡°Not yet,¡± Derzina said, ¡°they¡¯re generally acquired later in life.¡±

    ¡°Oh okay.¡± Brtetsia went to stand before Inea, craning her neck to look up at the much taller goddess. ¡°How did you acquire your title?¡±

    When Inea shifted in place in lieu of replying, Xanathel answered for her. ¡°She didn¡¯t. She never received one before the merging, so she gave herself one in the early days of our city.¡±

    Inea stared daggers at him while Derzina wished she could have joined Gorthar, she was also beyond tired of the gods¡¯ petty fighting. Hopefully Brtetsia wouldn¡¯t think this was a proper way for gods to behave.

    ¡°Am I allowed to live here?¡± Brtetsia asked.

    A collective hush fell across Derzina and the gods. Derzina had no idea how to answer, it was really not her place to decide such things. She was certain if the question had been posed before Inea¡¯s downfall, the goddess would have demanded Brtetsia¡¯s service in exchange for her joining the city. However, now that the order had shifted, no one seemed to know quite what to do.

    Several moments passed before Xanathel finally spoke. ¡°Are you willing to serve and protect the people of Brtet? If so, then I see no reason why you shouldn¡¯t be allowed to stay.¡±

    ¡°Serve and protect?¡± Brtetsia echoed. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I can do either of those things.¡± She looked to Derzina. ¡°Can I?¡±

    ¡°I would assume so,¡± Derzina said. ¡°You are a god after all, though I know little of what you¡¯re capable of.¡± Certain that the little goddess¡¯ knowledge of such scarcely exceeded her own, Derzina decided to offer a little test. She pointed to the abandoned building where she¡¯d concealed Brtetsia. ¡°If that whole structure was somehow a threat to the city, what would you do to prevent it doing any harm?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. How would I know that?¡±

    ¡°I realise you don¡¯t yet know, but think about it. Try to use whatever power you have within you to achieve what you wish.¡±

    Though she had almost no personal experience with such power, that was more or less how she¡¯d heard the process described by Paladins when she was training to become one.

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± Brtetsia said, closing her eyes. Her whole body faded away, growing insubstantial, and the building did likewise. They turned to faint lights, then shadows and finally vanished altogether. Derzina was wondering if the goddess had disappeared for good when they popped back into existence, though the building remained gone.

    Brtetsia admired her handiwork with a look of wonder. ¡°It¡¯s gone?¡±

    ¡°It certainly appears so,¡± Derzina said, waving her arm through the now empty space. ¡°What did you do?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, I just focused on making it go away.¡± The little goddess shrugged. ¡°And, well, it did.¡±If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    ¡°Quite the impressive feat,¡± Xanathel said, punctuating his statement with a muted round of applause and a friendly smile. ¡°If you¡¯re capable of that much, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll be of great use to our city. We¡¯d be happy to have someone so capable helping us.¡±

    Derzina was sure he was only doing it in hopes of gaining another ally, but she was still glad to see Brtetsia accepted so easily and Derzina finally began to relax. Meztraxia and his army were gone, along with the heart. Everything else seemed of little importance next to that. All that remained was to return Atasimon from wherever she¡¯d ended up.

    ¡°It looks like you have a place to call home now,¡± Derzina said, ¡°which I¡¯m glad to hear, but there is one thing I still must ask of you. There was another goddess, or at least part of one, that dwelled within me. She was taken from this world along with the others but never returned. Do you have any idea what might have happened to her? Or if you can bring her back?¡± Back from wherever it was they¡¯d all gone. Had the building gone to the same place?

    Brtetsia shrugged. ¡°I brought all the gods back, are you sure she was one?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m certain. Are you sure you don¡¯t know what might have happened to her? Where could she have gone?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, you should see for yourself.¡±

    ¡°Wai¡ª" Derzina didn¡¯t even manage to finish the first word of her objection before she was whisked away from the world she knew.

    The sky was gone, replaced by endless black, and all around here sat a great host of demons atop ground formed of a strange mirrorlike substance that made everything appear doubled. Derzina darted away from the armoured demon sitting before her only to stumble over another behind her. Hopelessly surrounded and thinking she must surely be dead or about to be, Derzina lashed out blindly.

    When nothing happened, she looked around to see that none of the demons had moved a muscle or reacted to her presence in the slightest. They were all fixated on the same single point. Derzina turned to see what so entranced them and beheld a globe formed of a thousand-thousand dancing purple lights. Every demon sat facing it, though those closest to it were slumped over.

    ¡°I¡¯d suggest you avert your eyes,¡± called a voice, ¡°unless you wish to end up like them.¡±

    Heeding their advice, Derzina instead sought out the speaker. Naked to the waist, with most of his exposed flesh raw and bleeding, Meztraxia stood amongst his soldiers. There was a large hole straight through his chest, the edges covered by smooth flesh. Suddenly confronted with the scourge of her home, Derzina felt a surge of hatred tinged with fear. But, perhaps owing to the strangeness of this place, it soon drained from her as she realised he hadn¡¯t the slightest intention of fighting. Assuming he even could with the current state of his body, it looked as if he were having trouble remaining upright.

    ¡°What happened here? Where are we?¡±

    ¡°This is all the doing of that,¡± he said, pointing toward the lights, while carefully avoiding looking directly at them, ¡°which once resided within me. As for where we are, I have only a faint idea. We are elsewhere from our own world; that¡¯s about as much as I¡¯ve been able to discern.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the Heart of Imistala?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°I thought it could only absorb magic.¡± Whatever was happening here implied another sort of capability entirely.

    ¡°As did I. It seems we were both mistaken. Why have you come here? How have you come here?¡±

    She was tempted to refuse to answer any more of his questions, but that seemed unproductive. Much as she hated him, he was trapped now, and denying him would serve no useful purpose. Spiting him solely for the sake of it held a certain appeal, but ultimately, she decided it was better to communicate with him for now.

    ¡°I have come searching for Atasimon, who did not return along with the others. As to the how, I was sent here by Brtetsia, a goddess born from the very event that transported you here.¡±

    ¡°You seek Atasimon as well? Then it seems we share a purpose. Though,¡± he showed his teeth, brown and rotting, ¡°I imagine we have very different intentions.¡±

    ¡°And what is it you wish of her? To end her life?¡±

    ¡°Hardly. I wish to take what is left of her that I might be whole again. Or if not whole, at least more than a walking corpse.¡±

    Derzina exhaled through her nose, amused despite herself. ¡°Then our purposes are not so different after all. Have you had no success in locating her?¡±

    ¡°None, though I assure you it¡¯s not for want of trying. I¡¯ve walked far across this empty place and screamed until my throat was scorched. Wherever she is, she either cannot answer me or would rather remain hidden.¡±

    ¡°Does that come as a surprise to you?¡± Derzina asked, scowling at the decrepit Demon Lord. ¡°You¡¯re her enemy, in case you¡¯ve forgotten. And mine as well for that matter.¡±

    ¡°That we are, though that doesn¡¯t mean we cannot treat one another with some measure of honour.¡±

    This time Derzina couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°What concept do you have of honour? You destroyed my city and butchered the men, women and children who lived there. And over what? A grudge?¡±

    ¡°A grudge? That¡¯s one word for it. You tried to wipe our world from existence, do you expect me to turn a blind eye to that atrocity?¡±

    ¡°There wasn¡¯t a single person living in Brtet that had anything to do with that.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps not, but their ancestors and the gods who shelter them did.¡±

    ¡°That does nothing to excuse the devastation you¡¯ve wrought,¡± Derzina said hotly.

    ¡°Would you have done any different? If you were attacking our lands, would you spare the children? Or the elderly? I doubt it; you¡¯d be a fool to do so. Such mercies are the purview of idiots and madmen.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right. Given the chance, I would have killed every last one of you and not lost a bit of sleep over it.¡± He was right, they were similar in that regard, albeit in few others. But even if they were exactly the same, it changed nothing; the demons still needed to die.

    ¡°I would expect nothing less. I assume this means you intend to leave my men and I here, to be consumed by the heart?¡±

    ¡°Of course, why would I not?¡±

    ¡°I could offer you peace, or even the service of my men, in exchange for our freedom.¡± Before Derzina could refuse his absurd offer, he continued. ¡°But I know you would never accept or trust us to keep our word, nor do I begrudge you that.¡±

    ¡°Then what else do you propose?¡± Derzina asked, confused. What else could he possibly offer?

    ¡°Nothing else, I¡¯m afraid. Much as it pains me to admit it, you¡¯re free to leave us to our doom and there isn¡¯t the slightest thing I can do about it. I have been defeated completely and utterly by you and your godling.¡±

    ¡°We may have engineered your fall, but we had little hand in your defeat. It was the wizard, Araveena, that we have to thank for our victory. Without her, we could never have gotten the heart away from you.¡±

    ¡°And this is how she¡¯s rewarded for her service?¡± A bark of crazed laughter erupted from Meztraxia¡¯s lips. ¡°It seems a most ungracious end, unless being the first one consumed by the heart was exactly what she wished.¡±

    Derzina frowned, hadn¡¯t the wizard returned with the others? Or had humans and gods not included her? Though if what Meztraxia said was true, it may have been too late to save her regardless. She felt a pang of sadness at the wizard¡¯s death, she¡¯d been instrumental in their victory and she¡¯d seemed a righteous ally. Feeling a renewed desire to get out of here before she met the same fate, Derzina set off in search of Atasimon.

 46 - Secrets of the Heart

    Moving through the tightly packed demons required her to spend far more time looking at them, and their strange reflections on the ground, than searching for Atasimon. She called out for the goddess a few times, only to quickly give that up as a fool¡¯s errand. If Atasimon was still able to see, then she¡¯d surely spot Derzina standing amongst the demons, none of which seemed able to stand.

    Amongst the ranks of her silent enemies, she was all too aware of Meztraxia dragging his feet behind her in an effort to keep up. She understood why he refused to give up, given that his only other choice was to meekly accept oblivion, but she had nothing further to say to the foul creature nor any desire to waste another thought on him.

    Strangely, Derzina found that the further she got from the heart the higher above it she rose, despite the ground appearing perfectly flat. Looking back at the visibly lower demons that simultaneously appeared to be level with her made her head ache, and she resolved to avoid looking at them. Being here was strange enough without letting something like that warp her senses and burden her mind.

    Once she left the demons behind, she found that only emptiness lay beyond. Here, other than herself, only the darkness above was reflected and it seemed as if she walked atop a sea of pure black. The illusion took hold in her mind to such an extent that she expected it to swallow her up at any moment. Yet she kept walking; what else was there to do? If she was going to die here, she may as well do it while searching for her lost goddess.

    And what a place this was to be lost in, it seemed to go on forever with no sign of a horizon or any landmarks other than the heart itself. Had this place always been here? Or had the heart created it? And now that Derzina thought about it, how had the heart come to be here at all? Whatever had moved it must have been some manner of magic, which it was supposed to absorb. Tiring of her search, Derzina stopped to rest and search for some answers from the only other person here who could offer them.

    She sat and waited until the struggling Demon Lord caught up. ¡°Do you have any idea how the heart got here? I thought it was supposed to absorb magic, how could magic have moved it here?¡±

    ¡°That is precisely it¡¯s function,¡± Meztraxia said, easing his battered body to the ground using only his legs. ¡°Or at least, it was. That wizard of yours altered it somehow, perhaps she even became part of it.¡±

    ¡°As you were?¡±

    ¡°No, I still retained my will and body. She must have bonded with it far more than I ever did, as I can see no trace of her remains.¡±

    ¡°How ever did you come into possession of the heart in the first place?¡± Derzina asked. ¡°Mortisflor offered little in the way of information when I was a guest in her vile city.¡±

    ¡°Oh? How fortunate that you had the pleasure of meeting the mad god. I trust her company was far more interesting than that of your infuriating little godling.¡±

    ¡°Our meeting brought little pleasure to anyone involved and I have no wish to discuss it. How did you acquire the heart?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s not a story that I¡¯m particularly fond of sharing,¡± Meztraxia said, curling his lip. ¡°It doesn¡¯t paint me in the most favourable light.¡±

    ¡°I assure you that my opinion of you could not possibly worsen.¡±

    ¡°A pity. After being bested, I have developed a certain grudging respect for you. Even a sort of admiration.¡± Before Derzina could berate him and insist he get to the point, Meztraxia continued. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be entirely accurate to say I acquired the heart at all, it was more the other way around. You see, in my own time as the mad god¡¯s guest somehow my charming personality incurred her ire and she had me thrown into the King¡¯s River.¡±

    He paused, putting his finger to his lips as he remembered. ¡°I believe she said I was to be an offering to the Demon King, something about returning one of his ungrateful children to his embrace. Amidst that accursed blood I was broken and remade; it was there that the heart found me.¡±

    ¡°Then you know nothing of who created it? I met with the wizard who claimed to have made it, but he would tell me nothing of its purpose.¡±

    The more Derzina learnt of the heart, the more she doubted it could have been the work of a lone wizard. If it were, then he must surely command power beyond comprehension, and that was hardly the impression she¡¯d gotten from the befuddled old man.

    ¡°I had thought it a gift, given to me by the fallen Demon King that I might destroy his enemies. It was only recently that I came to doubt that, and now I no longer believe it at all. Isn¡¯t the death of faith a terribly amusing thing to behold?¡± Despite his words, Meztraxia sounded more haunted than amused. Not that Derzina had the slightest pity to spare for him, his reasons did nothing to shift her opinion of him.

    ¡°I find nothing about you, or what you¡¯ve done, the least bit humorous.¡± Starting to wish she¡¯d never bothered to speak to him, Derzina shook her head. ¡°Do you know anything about the heart that might be of use?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure I know anything of use anymore,¡± Meztraxia said. When Derzina glared at him, he added, ¡°I don¡¯t know terribly much about it, beyond that it was alive.¡±

    ¡°Alive? How do you know that?¡±

    It was a strange claim to make, nothing about what she¡¯d seen of it struck her as it being alive. Even now, it seemed like nothing more than an inanimate object. Albeit one of incredible power.

    ¡°It whispered to me. Sometimes when I was awake, but mostly when I was asleep. It was always there in my dreams, a great purple inevitability.¡±

    ¡°What did it whisper of?¡± Derzina asked, intrigued as to what the heart could possibly have to say.

    ¡°Most of what it said concerned my eventual victory, though it appears it either missed the mark or deliberately deceived me. Other than those false promises, it occasionally spoke of a woman named Imistala and her return. Though given what happened with me, I¡¯m not sure I¡¯d put any stock in that talk either.¡±

    Imistala? Erstanos called her a founder and said he named the heart after her, but beyond that he had hinted at no deeper connection. Had he known and chosen to mislead her? Assuming he had created the heart, or at least understood it, then he must have deceived her. But to what end? What was the significance of Imistala, who he¡¯d said was their founder? Much as she wished to ask Meztraxia about it, she was sure he knew nothing more of it than she did.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    ¡°I see,¡± she said, ¡°then it appears I have nothing further to gain from speaking with you.¡±

    Leaving the Demon Lord behind once more, she strode off in search of Atasimon. The wayward goddess had to be around here somewhere, assuming she still existed at all, and hadn¡¯t been swallowed up by the heart. Much as Derzina wished to deny it, she was finding it harder to believe that Atasimon could still be found. The goddess would surely have returned to her by now, were she still capable of it.

    Staring up at the great abyss overhead as she walked, Derzina slowed. She could feel what little strength remained to her draining away and she knew she was dying. Something had been bothering her since not long after she was joined with Atasimon, a sense that she was no longer as she once was; no longer a mortal.

    Whatever she had become, it seemed she could not survive without the goddess. It was possible it was just the effects of the heart, but she doubted it. Some part of her had figured it out quite some time ago, she had ceased to live in the ordinary sense and now all she had left was to die. Even if Brtetsia were to bring Derzina back to her own world, only death awaited her there.

    Confronted with dying on her back in this dark, empty place, Derzina considered killing Meztraxia. His death at her hands would make for a fitting end to her life, yet looking back at the cripple she couldn¡¯t muster much enthusiasm for the idea. They were both corpses now, they just hadn¡¯t finished dying yet.

    If that was the case, Derzina decided, then she would rather die on her own terms than wait to wither away. The heart must have consumed Atasimon and Araveena, so it seemed only fitting that Derzina join them. She turned back and headed for the heart, no longer bothering to avert her eyes from it.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Meztraxia demanded.

    ¡°Going to my death. Feel free to stay here and wither away. It¡¯s only matter of time, no matter what you believe.¡±

    As she passed him, she heard the Demon Lord dragging himself along after her and paid it no mind. Though she had no wish to die with him, her concerns would soon be immaterial.

    Now that she was moving toward the heart, Derzina found her passage far easier. The ground still remained flat beneath her feet, yet it felt as if she were drawn toward the purple lights. Comatose demons posed no trouble this time, as she glided through them without obstacle. If she still held any doubts about the heart¡¯s power, feeling it draw her toward it would have erased them.

    After a much faster journey back, Derzina stood before the heart. The complex interplay of the lights was beautiful, made all the more so by their reflections from the mirrored ground. Any fear that she felt towards it had vanished the moment she¡¯d decided her fate. Now she was free to appreciate the purple lights dancing in the dark as they drifted further apart until Derzina was amongst the swirling display.

    To her surprise there was no sense of heat or any sensation that proved the heart was there at all. Portions of it passed right through her flesh and she didn¡¯t feel a thing. It almost seemed like nothing more than an illusion, yet she knew that could not be true. There had to be something else at work here. Whatever it was, it must be linked to why she was the only one who¡¯d been left behind in Brtet.

    If the heart¡¯s greatest desire, assuming it had any desire at all, was to absorb magic, then perhaps that was the reason. Perhaps Derzina was the only one in all the city that possessed no magic, it would make sense given that her god was dead and she was just a corpse. Being spared the effects of the heart would normally have been a blessing, but now all it meant was that she was denied the death she was chosen.

    After coming all this way and after all this toil, her reward was to die here; cold and alone. At least within the heart, she could have been with the two goddesses that had so defined her life. Instead, she was doomed to die alongside her mortal enemies. Sitting beside the heart, which seemed content to ignore her, Derzina reflected on the unfairness of it all. This was to be her reward for her service? She hadn¡¯t expected songs to be sung of her, or any such nonsense, but she¡¯d at least expected a better death.

    Dying in their last battle against Meztraxia would have been far better. There would have been real nobility in dying to protect a city that wasn¡¯t her own. Instead she was granted a death that was anything but noble. No longer seeing any beauty in the light, Derzina stared up at the void and waited for the end.

    As time passed, she found she was mistaken. Derzina thought she¡¯d been resolved to die, yet the longer she waited, the more untrue that proved to be. For all the courage and resolve she¡¯d shown up to this point, she was afraid. The thought of her impending death, and she could feel that it was approaching, filled her with a sickly, paralysing fear that stole the strength from her limbs. Combined with the waning of life in her body, it rendered the simple act of getting to her feet an arduous task. With much struggle, and several false starts, she stood.

    A minuscule victory compared to Meztraxia¡¯s defeat, yet in the moment it felt the more difficult of the two tasks. She¡¯d only defeated the Demon Lord with a great deal of help, and there was no help for her here. Without anywhere else to go, and each step taking a monumental effort, Derzina walked deeper into the heart. Everything else around her vanished, obscured by the purple light, and still she continued.

    She had no reason to believe there was anything of use to be found within, it was only a faint hope that propelled her forward. It was a fragile little thing, born of fear in this dark, empty place. Yet within her it shone brighter than any sun, banishing even the darkest of her despair and compelling her to live. Blinded by the purple light surrounding her, Derzina heard a voice. Not that of Atasimon, as she hoped, but one she¡¯d never heard before.

    Even as the first syllable was uttered, Derzina felt her terror grow. For the voice was not born of ordinary sounds as a mortal¡¯s was, nor did it resemble the elevated tones of a god. As the words came into being around Derzina, it put her in mind of many wordless screams twisted into language. Yet even that comparison did it little justice, the agonised howls of the dying were music next to the voice that emanated from the heart.

    ¡°Lost little thing,¡± it screeched, ¡°why do you struggle so?¡±

    Overawed and on the brink of death, it took several of Derzina¡¯s few remaining moments to answer. ¡°I want to live.¡± Speaking in a polite or sophisticated manner was beyond her means and her interest now, though it seemed unlikely the being surrounding her would care much one way or the other.

    ¡°Then coming here was a curious choice.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t tell if they were threatening her or amused by her actions, it was impossible to derive any nuance from the awful cacophony that erupted around her whenever the heart spoke.

    ¡°I came here to seek Atasimon, the goddess you devoured.¡±

    ¡°A necessary sacrifice. Your world has abused magic for too long, it is past time it was stripped away and put to better use.¡±

    Though she would have imagined it to be impossible, the voice grew more terrible with each word it spoke, with each syllable it wove. Even to her failing body, it seemed to burn as it entered her ears and she clutched her hands over them as her whole body trembled.

    ¡°I have no wish to destroy you or drive you mad, little visitor,¡± the voice said, now growing gentler by the moment until it spoke with Araveena¡¯s voice. The lights retreated to reveal the wizard; her eyes blank beneath her hood while her arms were missing entirely.

    ¡°Whatever you wish, I will die without Atasimon.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re quite the broken little thing, aren¡¯t you,¡± the puppet who was once Araveena said, lips contorting into a smile. ¡°In honour of your visit, I will give you back your goddess. What little remains of her¡±

    A thin snake of purple light crept into Derzina¡¯s eye and beyond, into the confines of her skull. There was an instant of incredible agony and Derzina felt the familiar presence of Atasimon bloom within her mind.

    ¡°You may have her a little longer,¡± the shell of a wizard concluded, as Atasimon returned in full and Derzina was pulled back to the world she called home.

 47 - Final Reckoning

    The suns had already set by the time Derzina returned to the world she knew, though the moonlight was still bright compared to the darkness of the other realm. Appearing amongst the palace gardens beside Brtetsia, Derzina let out a sigh of relief.

    ¡°How did you find her?¡± the young goddess asked.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± Derzina said, ¡°the heart returned her to me. Do you know anything about the heart or what lives within it?¡±

    ¡°Something bad.¡± Brtetsia¡¯s usually bright tone was dampened by fear. ¡°I can feel it hungering for me even now.¡± Then, as if forgetting the subject entirely, her voice returned to normal as she continued. ¡°Now that your god is back, are they also going to fight?¡±

    ¡°If they must. Why do you ask?¡±

    ¡°Well, the other gods are already fighting, so I thought yours might as well.¡±

    ¡°Who are they fighting?¡± Derzina asked, struggling to shift her focus from the heart back to this world.

    ¡°Each other. Well, Inea and Xanathel are at least. I don¡¯t know what Gorthar is doing.¡±

    Recalling the warning Mostanto had given her, Derzina cursed the foolishness of gods. They¡¯d only narrowly defeated Meztraxia and they were already turning on each other? It was madness.

    ¡°We need to stop them,¡± Derzina said, ¡°is there anything you can do to help?¡± Even with Atasimon restored to her, the goddess¡¯ diminished power could only do so much on its own.

    ¡°Like what?¡± Brtetsia asked, tilting her head to the side. ¡°I might be able to send them back to the other world, would that help?¡±

    Sending just one of them would certainly put an end to the fighting, but Derzina misliked the idea of sending anyone to that place. Especially a god. ¡°Is there anything else you can do?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    ¡°I see. Do you know where they are?¡±

    While Brtetsia only shrugged, Atasimon¡¯s voice sounded in Derzina¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯ve located my son, let¡¯s not waste any more time here.¡±

    Without so much as a goodbye, Derzina rushed off at Atasimon¡¯s behest. Trying to navigate through the city using only the goddess¡¯ vague directions proved difficult, but as Derzina got closer she was able to follow the sounds of clashing steel and dying men, punctuated by stone crashing to the ground. She passed Paladins of the two gods doing battle, but ignored them in favour of seeking out those they served. Once the gods stopped fighting, their followers would as well.

    A building, stained black by the power of Xanathel and his Paladins, collapsed in on itself before Derzina. Beyond it lay a great flowing mass of darkness which hurled itself at Inea. Standing defiant before it, the goddess¡¯ blade cut through great swathes of darkness as it sought to envelop her.

    As blackness flew around her, some of it sticking to her armoured form, she thrust her sword deep inside it. Xanathel cried out in pain and fell back, but his power was already taking effect on Inea. Pieces of steel sloughed off her like dead skin, falling away as she pursued her foe.

    ¡°Stop this at once!¡± Derzina shouted, Atasimon lending her voice greater volume.

    The duelling gods before her fell back from each other, staring at her and their opponent.

    ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be allies protecting the city, not trying to kill each other. And over what? Who rules the city?¡±

    ¡°She attacked me first,¡± Xanathel said, darkness fading to reveal a hole straight through his shoulder, ¡°I seek only to defend myself. Help me in this, that we might defeat the tyrant once and for all.¡±

    ¡°Why did she attack you?¡± Derzina asked, recalling the warning Mostanto had given her. Had that simply been a ploy to engineer this very situation? If so, it appeared it hadn¡¯t been necessary to provoke Inea¡¯s wrath.

    ¡°Because she refuses¡ª¡± Xanathel began, only for Inea to talk over him.

    ¡°He was plotting to steal my followers for his own and give this city over to the demons.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous,¡± Derzina said, ¡°he fought every bit as hard as you did to defeat Meztraxia. How can you claim he¡¯s in league with the demons after he helped destroy them?¡±

    ¡°He only did that so he could hand the city over to those he¡¯d already pledged it to.¡±

    ¡°Do you see the depths of her madness?¡± Xanathel asked. ¡°I know you to be a just woman; help me rid the city of her poison once and for all.¡±

    Though she didn¡¯t entirely trust Xanathel, he was the only one speaking sense.

    ¡°If there¡¯s any truth to what he says,¡± Atasimon said inwardly, pre-empting Derzina¡¯s question, ¡°then we should support him in this.¡±

    ¡°Lady Inea,¡± Derzina said, moving between the two and approaching the goddess, ¡°please, be reasonable. Whatever you believe is happening here, we can resolve this peacefully.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re long past that,¡± Inea said, not wavering for an instant. ¡°Stand aside, or you can die with him.¡±

    She spoke with such hatred and conviction, that Derzina knew peace was no longer possible. Without a word, she gave control over to Atasimon. The goddess¡¯ dark veil manifested around her, a fitting accompaniment to the flowing darkness surrounding Xanathel which swelled to obscure the god once more.

    Inea slashed at Atasimon¡¯s head and the sword shredded right through the goddess¡¯ veil, forcing her to duck. Even while forced to retreat, Atasimon¡¯s shadows curved around her attacker and sought out the gaps Xanathel had opened in their armour. Yet the few shallow cuts she was able to inflict did nothing to slow Inea as she continued to press Atasimon with a rapid series of strikes. Focused on her opponent, Atasimon lost sight of Xanathel until he appeared behind Inea as a dark cloud and fell over the goddess before she could turn.

    Hidden from view, Inea¡¯s limbs and sword poked out from time to time as she struggled. But Xanathel¡¯s grip was firm and her flailing slowed before stopping completely when her sword arm, still clutching the weapon, fell from the cloud. When the darkness lifted, all that remained of Inea was a puddle of green, silver and bone.

    ¡°Thank you, mother,¡± Xanathel said, beaming as he emerged from the darkness he¡¯d brought. ¡°you have done a great service, to me and to the people of Bretet. One we shall never forget.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°You can handle the rest,¡± Atasimon said, speaking internally. ¡°I fear even that paltry display has expended my strength.¡±

    ¡°Atasimon extends her appreciation,¡± Derzina said, ¡°but the battle was most draining for her and she must rest.¡±

    ¡°Then I hope she recovers quickly, though I¡¯m sure we can handle what comes next between the two of us. After all you¡¯ve done for our city, I hesitate to ask more of you, and yet I must. There is still a great deal to be done here to bring order to the city, will you assist me? Having the support of a figure as pivotal as yourself, would go a long way toward soothing the minds of the people. They have never liked me for the most part, and I¡¯m sure many of them will be terribly upset by Inea¡¯s death.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m willing to help, what do you need from me? What do you intend to do with the city now?¡±

    Brief as the fight against Inea had been, Derzina was still numb from it. But she had to work past that; Xanathel was right, there was much to be done here. The sounds of battle had faded with Inea¡¯s death, presumably her paladins had sensed her fall and given up the fight.

    ¡°Come with me and I¡¯ll explain. There¡¯s an associate of mine who shall play an integral role in what comes next; their presence is necessary before I can go into the details.¡±

    Derzina accompanied the god through the city while he spoke at length of Derzina¡¯s glorious deeds and how tragic Inea¡¯s end had been, whatever her flaws. Though initially she tried not to let Xanathel¡¯s words influence her overmuch, in the end the validation of all her efforts was too sweet to ignore. By the time they reached the home of one of Xanathel¡¯s followers where they¡¯d stayed previously, Derzina was fully convinced of the righteous nature of their actions. Regrettable as Inea¡¯s death had been, it was for the best.

    The owner of the home was nowhere to be seen when Xanathel came calling, the only occupant was the traveller he¡¯d introduced to Derzina last time. After all that had happened, and was happening at the time, she couldn¡¯t recall their name.

    ¡°I apologise,¡± Derzina said, as they were moving deeper into house, ¡°but I seem to have forgotten your name. Would you mind refreshing my memory?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Nirinphage,¡± the woman said. She wore the same wide-brimmed hat Derzina had seen her in last time, and from the way her clothing bulged slightly, it seemed she was wearing armour underneath her clothes. A somewhat odd choice, but not unreasonable given the current state of the city.

    ¡°First of all,¡± Xanathel said, as the three of them sat down at a table, ¡°I¡¯d like to congratulate you both on the glorious future that awaits us.¡± He turned to Derzina. ¡°I¡¯m sure you must be confused as to Nirinphage¡¯s role in all this, so allow me to explain. She is an emissary from another city, not so distant from ours, who I intend to make an alliance with.¡±

    ¡°How exactly would an alliance between cities work?¡± The concept was appealing in theory, but she struggled to imagine what support another city could realistically provide given the largely impassable wastes that separated the two.

    ¡°We would agree to protect one another if attacked and generally support the endeavours of the other. Now, of course, normally such aid would be largely impossible. But Adytum, the city which Nirinphage represents, offers us a unique opportunity. For you see, they have developed a way to travel overland without succumbing to the effects of corruption.¡±

    ¡°And how have they accomplished this miraculous feat?¡± Derzina asked. If what he said was true, then it may change the very nature of human existence. Perhaps they would no longer be prisoners in their own walls.

    ¡°After a great deal of effort and study, they have determined a way that humanity might be altered to resist this corruption.¡± He put his hand on Nirinphage¡¯s arm. ¡°Please remove your hat.¡±

    Doing as she was bid, Nirinphage placed her hat on the table. Beneath was a pair of short grey horns, that protruded from the top of her head.

    Derzina jumped up, drawing her blade as she did. ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡±

    ¡°I understand why this may frighten you,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°but I assure you that there is no cause for alarm. Nirinphage means no harm, not to us or to the people of Brtet.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s a demon,¡± Derzina spat.

    ¡°Not exactly. She¡¯s a human that has received a carefully portioned dose of their essence. Well, it¡¯s more complicated than that, but suffice to say she is still very much human. This change simply allows her to travel beyond the walls without fear. At least for a certain time, they¡¯re still working to improve upon the process.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care what the supposed benefits are, tainting ourselves with the demon¡¯s corruption is no solution at all. It¡¯s better that we die.¡±

    ¡°I assure you,¡± Xanathel said, ¡°it¡¯s quite safe.¡±

    Derzina shook her head, she¡¯d heard enough of his excuses and explanations. ¡°Inea was right, you really do mean to hand this city over to the demons.¡±

    The smile disappeared from Xanathel¡¯s face, rendering his features cold and barren in an instant. ¡°I intend to do no such thing. This is merely an alliance, forged for the betterment of both cities.¡±

    ¡°I never should have listened to you, nor will I ever accept this appalling alliance of yours.¡± She got up and moved to leave, only for Xanathel to block her path.

    ¡°Where are you going?¡±

    ¡°To tell the people exactly what you plan to do with them. Now move aside.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I cannot. The people are not yet ready to know what I have revealed to you. I had thought you a reasonable woman with righteous intent, but I see that I was mistaken. In the end, you are little better than Inea was.¡±

    Atasimon¡¯s veil appeared around Derzina, as Xanathel¡¯s darkness bore down on her. The goddess¡¯ shadows held back the tide, but Xanathel¡¯s darkness grew and grew until she was surrounded by it. From there, it took only a few moments before flowing death rushed inward. It dug channels in Derzina¡¯s flesh and she reeled back, only for it to vanish.

    She thought that perhaps Xanathel had decided to be merciful, but when his face was revealed he looked just as surprised as she was. It was only then that Derzina noticed the purple light emanating from her body. With a blinding flash, it covered Xanathel as he turned to flee. When the light faded, he was gone.

    ¡°What have you done?¡± Nirinphage whispered, horrified.

    ¡°I had no part in this,¡± Derzina said, standing there stunned. Blinking several times, she gathered wits. ¡°But I don¡¯t regret it. Better that he be destroyed than pollute this city with your taint.¡±

    ¡°I know that if you didn¡¯t believe him, then there¡¯s no way you¡¯ll believe me, but we really are trying to do what he said.¡± With pain in her eyes, Nirinphage looked away. ¡°I¡¯m still human,¡± she pleaded, sounding as if she were trying to convince herself as much as Derzina, ¡°just as much as you are.¡±

    Derzina raised her blade, useless as it was against a god, it would serve well here. Every atrocity the demons had committed, from the destruction of her own city to the terrible stain they¡¯d inflicted upon this world, compelled her to end the foul creature before her. Yet the torment that warred across their features gave her pause.

    ¡°What would have happened if I¡¯d agreed to help the both of you with your wretched plan?¡±

    ¡°We would have prepared the city for the arrival of a contingent of my own people, who would help to prepare those who were willing to endure life beyond the walls.¡±

    ¡°You mean corrupt them as they did you,¡± Derzina said, sneering. ¡°And will this contingent now no longer come?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re already preparing to leave,¡± Nirinphage said, ¡°though it will take them a while before they¡¯re ready. Probably no more than a few weeks.¡± She eyed Derzina¡¯s sword. ¡°Please, don¡¯t do anything hasty. I swear that our intentions are noble.¡±

    ¡°We shall see,¡± Derzina said, sheathing her blade.

    ¡°Then you¡¯re willing to admit them to the city? At least to hear what they have to say?¡±

    ¡°Far from it. Given the choice, I¡¯d stop them getting anywhere near Brtet. But you will take me to Adytum, so that I can see your foul city for myself.¡±

    Nirinphage nodded ¡°If that is what it will take, then I will gladly make the journey.¡±

    ¡°So be it.¡±

    They were leaving the building when Brtetsia stepped into existence before them.

    ¡°What happened?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Xanathel and Inea are dead,¡± Derzina said. ¡°I¡¯m leaving the city to investigate something that may be vital to its future.¡±

    ¡°The gods are dead? What is Brtet going to do without them? I thought they were responsible for protecting it.¡±

    ¡°They were, though they both seem to have lost sight of that.¡± Derzina stopped to think. In the heat of the moment, she¡¯d all but forgotten about the city¡¯s future now that its gods had fallen. ¡°You and Gorthar shall have to protect it in their stead.¡± A risky proposition, yet it seemed the best of their options.

    ¡°Me?¡± the young goddess asked, blinking. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can do that.¡±

    ¡°I believe you have the power to protect Brtet, Gorthar will have to help you with the rest of it.¡±

    ¡°Why me? Can¡¯t someone else protect the city?¡±

    ¡°No, there¡¯s no one else. And this is your city now, just as much as everyone else who was born here.¡±

    Brtetsia frowned, deep in thought, only to brighten as she made up her mind. ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s all I can ask,¡± Derzina said. ¡°Farewell.¡±

 48 - Offering

    Meztraxia had watched as the human walked into the heart, expecting her to vanish as many of the demons closest to it already had. As she disappeared from view, he assumed that was precisely what had happened until he heard the heart speak to her. The voice was great and terrible, nothing like the feeble thing that had whispered in his mind. Either the heart was far more powerful here, or this was a different manner of existence entirely from the one he¡¯d known.

    After it sent the goddess¡¯ vessel back, or at least claimed to, the voice fell silent. Though it seemed to have no interest in him, despite their prior relationship, hearing it broke him free from his resignation. If the heart was willing to return the girl, then it might be persuaded to do the same for him and his men. He was in no shape to fight anymore, and his broken body likely wouldn¡¯t survive much longer, but if there was a chance of survival for himself and those he¡¯d led here to their doom, then he had to take it.

    Stepping into the purple light, he called out to whatever being was out there. ¡°Are you Imistala?¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± it called back, its voice no less horrible than when it had started speaking.

    ¡°And you must know me, who once served you so faithfully.¡±

    ¡°You confuse self-interest with faith, likely a common mistake among demons.¡± There was a distinct tone of accusation amongst the screeching of Imisatala¡¯s voice.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    Meztraxia swallowed, deception would avail him little against this creature. After being joined with him for so long, it likely understood him better than anyone he¡¯d ever known.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, I had no interest in whatever your cause was; I was too busy furthering my own. One which you seemed to support, given all the aid you rendered me.¡±

    There was a long pause, during which Meztraxia feared he¡¯d already lost Imistala¡¯s interest, followed by a hollow-eyed man emerging from the light. Though their features and livery clearly marked them as one of his soldiers, he didn¡¯t recognise them.

    ¡°I supported you until the moment you were of no further use to me,¡± the man said.

    ¡°Is that it then? You¡¯re content to leave me and mine here to die?¡± He didn¡¯t expect pity from Imistala, yet he couldn¡¯t help but question such a terrible fate aloud.

    ¡°Can you think of a reason why I wouldn¡¯t?¡±

    Certain as he was that the demon before him had nothing to do with Imistala¡¯s true form, their indifference made Meztraxia want to throttle them. ¡°I can still serve you, as can my men. We will do anything you ask of us.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps we should consider his offer,¡± said another male voice, as a partially transparent image of an old man appeared beside Imistala¡¯s puppet. ¡°There is still much work to be done.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to remind me of that, Erstanos,¡± Imistala said. ¡°We have no need of the demons; they¡¯re too unreliable. Best that we use those who are truly loyal to our cause.¡±

    The old man chuckled. ¡°Perhaps you haven¡¯t been paying attention, but such admirable creatures are in desperately short supply in my world. Fortunately, we have other options available to us. In my view, servants who depend on us completely for their very lives should possess sufficient loyalty.¡±

    ¡°So be it.¡± The demon turned to Meztraxia. ¡°You will be in my service for a little while longer.¡±