"Are you really so surprised?" My voice was casual but she still gave me a look of suspicion.
"Of course. You and his Majesty being best friends is a known fact amongst the people of this empire." She said as she came over and walked next to me; we headed off the palace grounds. Her demeanor was everything you'd expect from a noble lady. With her pale beauty,dark colored dress, and thick heels she gave off a mysterious grace that was almost bewitching. I replied after a moment.
" It's true me and Erick are close friends; but something isn't adding up and rushing in head first isn't the best option. I don't agree that a demon lord won't attack us; however...priests going blind..?" I closed my eyes as the thought of something I hoped wasn't possible began to form. What if it was Something worse than a demon lord.. a world eater; if a world eater did appear there would be no hope at all.
"Care to share Sword Master Don?" I glanced over at Paris while hiding my unease. then spoke truthfully.
"I'm not an expert on demons ma'm; but I know enough about them to see that there is something terribly wrong this time." I wasn't sure how to put it into words without sounding ridiculous or superstitious.
"Is it really so odd?" looking over I saw a curious expression on Paris's face. It was somewhat innocent and had a sunny glow to it. Perhaps to her this was like learning about a new species of animal.
" As I said I'm no expert; But after so many years you can say there is a pattern to these appearances. We've never been strong enough to fight back against the demon lords so to keep the peace we've only ever given into their demands. However this demon lord, if it exists that is; Hasn't made any demands or shown any display of power. we don't have intel on the minds of demon lords; but of the ones we do know they have always been overbearing." I sighed deeply. Paris listened to me intently until the end and with a nod said.
"I can see the problem then. A deviation in a pattern is troublesome when you have too little intel. However That doesn't answer my question." Her sharp eyes dug into me and I was caught off guard. I had never met a woman who could make my skin feel like it was being pierced by needles at a glance. With a slight cough to cover my surprise I spoke plainly.
"I feel like this may not be a demon lord but an entirely different entity altogether." Paris looked shocked; her golden eyes blinked a few times before she regained her composure.
"That is interesting.." she said slowly. " But how come you didn't mention it during the advisory?" it was true I probably should have brought this matter to their attention. There were far worse things in this world and unfortunately many of them have been forgotten.
"I can't make such a claim without solid evidence. It would be my word against the kings. that kind of discourse could bring about problems politically."
Religion and regime should never clash. It was already a problem that I disagreed with the plan to prepare the military and draft in soldiers. but for me to say that the king was completely wrong in what we were dealing with and that we would be wasting our resources was another.
"You're more insightful than I thought Sword Master Don." We stopped outside of a newer restaurant called Annese; It was known for its full and robust menu and unique, but classy style. I was so caught up in my own thoughts I hadn't noticed she had been leading me this whole time.
"Shall we dine for a change of pace?" it was hard to say no as it was with my empty stomach but her voice was inviting and her smile warm. What excuse could I even give?
"I'd like that very much" I said as I held the door open, she walked inside with a brisk pace and a casual smile.