Kaen's expression hardened. "Now that we've established who we are and that we bear no ill will toward one another… what exactly are your intentions?"
Silvy's gaze grew serious, her next words sending a shiver down the spines of those present.
"It is time I repay my debt to Kaiden. We must revive the Demon King."
A stunned silence followed.
Serine's voice wavered. "Revive… Kaiden? That's impossible!"
Silvy's emerald eyes gleamed with certainty. "Under normal circumstances, yes. But Kaiden sacrificed his horns to save you all. The King of Velmoria had a use for those horns, and for some reason, he did not destroy Kaiden's body with the holy weapon." She folded her hands. "That means he has a plan for it."
Serine's eyes shimmered with emotion. "Then that means… we can still save Kaiden?"
Kaen, guilt evident in his expression, lowered his head. "I apologize for my earlier doubt. Now that I understand our situation, I will do anything for Kaiden. Just tell us what we must do."
Silvy, however, gave him a knowing look. "I admire your determination, but that alone won't be enough."
Serine frowned. "What do you mean?"
Aerion answered in her place. "She means… you're not strong enough."
Silvy nodded. "Kaiden's body is well-protected in the Demon Lands, which are currently under the control of King Aldric Valmore. Before we even attempt to retrieve him, we must first obtain the heart of the Chaos Dragon."
A hushed whisper fell over the room.
Malrik, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "The legendary Chaos Dragon… The one that resides in the Dark Mountain of the Shadow Lands."
Lyra's breath caught in her throat. "You mean the dragon even Kaiden himself failed to tame?"
Kaen clenched his fists. "Not only that. The Chaos Dragon is the reason the Shadow Lands remain an independent, rulerless domain."
Silvy confirmed their fears. "That is correct."
Kaen inhaled deeply. "So what do you suggest, Your Highness?"
Silvy's gaze was steady. "I have prepared a training ground for you. Along with instructors chosen specifically for your abilities."
Kaen, ever the realist, tilted his head. "Even with their expertise, they can only refine our magical and physical prowess. They cannot guide us in mastering our demonic heritage."
Silvy's smirk was almost mischievous. "Which is why I've brought someone more… suitable for the task."
The Arrival of an Old Master
At her command, Aerion stepped forward and gestured toward the grand doors. With a slow, deliberate motion, they creaked open. A towering figure stepped inside, his presence alone demanding respect.
Lyra gasped. "Elder Raven!"
Draven's eyes widened. "But… how? He retired after Kaiden became the Demon King."
The elder demon smiled, his voice carrying the wisdom of ages. "It is always an honor to stand before royalty." His crimson eyes surveyed the young warriors before him. "So, you are Kaiden's disciples… I see traces of the Supreme Demon King in each of you." A soft chuckle escaped his lips. "Ah, Kaiden… You have certainly left quite the mess for me to clean up."
Kaen stepped forward, bowing slightly. "It is an honor to meet you, Elder Raven."
Lyra's curiosity got the better of her. "Is it true that you trained Lord Kaiden?"
Raven nodded. "Indeed. Under the direct order of Master Varkos, I trained the young master. Unlike many others, he possessed an extraordinary talent, combined with a determination I had rarely seen. Guiding him was less of a challenge and more of a privilege."
Silvy exhaled, satisfied. "With him onboard, we now stand a chance."
Serine placed a hand over her heart. "On behalf of the Five Devil Progenies… Thank you. We owe you everything."
Silvy's expression softened. "Don't use such strong words so lightly. You owe me nothing. I am merely avenging a dear friend."
To Be Continued…