The two carefully and determinedly formed groups took their places on the bustling streets of Haradi. The city's arteries were overflowing with a crowd of busy organizers, all working to ensure the success of the upcoming event.
Marshal, Jacob, and Garnal walked confidently down a narrow, picturesque street. The enticing scents of freshly prepared appetizers from local restaurateurs wafted in the air, igniting their appetites. Skilled magicians shot out sparkling sparks and showcased their mastery of spells, captivating the awed passersby.
Their path crossed that of electricians busily preparing stage lighting for an imminent show. The cables crisscrossed like electric spider webs, promising a mesmerizing show as night approached.
To blend into the city's hustle and ensure the success of their secret mission, Jacob had shed the green kimono Marshal had given him. Instead, he reverted to his usual attire to avoid drawing attention to himself and his companions.
"So, where do we start?" Garnal asked.
"Let's start with the biggest organizers. They're likely to be more involved. Follow me," Marshal affirmed confidently.
Venturing deeper into the village, Marshal's group reached its heart, where the most significant performances occurred and the most peasants gathered. Their attention focused on a particular square, home to the magicians. They moved closer.
"Ah, magic shows! They're a cornerstone of Haradian tradition," Garnal exclaimed.
"Indeed, not only are there many spectators, but Haradian magicians have extensive magical knowledge. Another reason the archdemon might be here… "
"By the way, isn't it too risky to have Garnal join the mission?" Jacob asked.
Having heard the question, Marshal placed his hand on Garnal's head and sighed hesitantly, "Ever since I saved him, Garnal accompanies me on nearly all my missions. This rascal insists on always coming with me."
"That's because I like you a lot!"
"I'd risk my life to protect him, just as I would for you, Lost Ones. You're more important than me. I'm prepared to sacrifice myself for you."
"Don't say that..." Jacob replied somberly.
"We're here to defeat a higher being, so yes, you all are more important than me."
While engrossed in their heartwarming conversation, they slowly approached a mysterious magician practicing his craft, casting enigmatic spells. The magician, noticing them, paused and warmly waved at Marshal, a radiant smile lighting up his face.
"Mr. Anabito, it's a pleasure to see you! What brings you here?"
"Hello, Mr. Ginestel. May we speak? Would you mind?"
"Not at all. I always enjoy talking to someone like you. What's this about?"
"The Lost Ones and I are searching for an archdemon that's been lurking during festivals. Have you noticed any unusual behaviors or even disappearances?"
"An archdemon?!"
Using his unique power, Marshal delved into the magician's mind, sifting through his thoughts. He seems stressed, but only due to the mention of the archdemon.
"Yes, we want to eliminate it before it claims more victims."
"It's hard to say. I haven't noticed anything unusual."
He's searching, but he's drawing a blank. Wait, there's something!
"Elacy has been very tense lately, and his son often cries."
"Elacy... The one organizing the dances and sketches?"
"Yes, we rarely speak. Every time I see him, he seems stressed."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
As the group moved away from the magician, curiosity gripped them as they pondered Elacy's true nature. Rumors described him as a man tormented by anxiety, his nerves in constant turmoil. Some whispered that he was haunted by sleepless nights, perhaps even battling depression.
"Do you think there's a connection?" Jacob inquired.
"I'm unsure, but we don't have time to lose, let's go!"
Scanning the street teeming with organizers, Marshal's keen eyes finally landed on an elderly bearded man shaking atop a worn-out stool, bearing marks of countless shows. As they neared him, Elacy turned sharply, his face ghostly pale.
"Marshal?! What do you want from me?!" he exclaimed in a sharp tone.
It's clear; he's terrified, seemingly under some control…
"I wish to ask you some questions. Do you have a moment?"
"No! Go away; I'm busy!"
So, he's being resistant, huh?
"I'll pay you a hundred gold Éré coins. Is that satisfactory?"
Elacy's eyes widened at Marshal's generous offer, equivalent to 1,500 euros in the Lost Ones' homeland currency. After a moment of hesitation, he begrudgingly agreed.
"What do you want?"
"We're hunting an archdemon that allegedly kills during festivals without leaving a trace. Have you heard of it?"
Upon hearing "archdemon," Elacy froze, saying no more. Marshal's telepathy made sense of Elacy's reaction.
Alright, I have my answer. He believes the archdemon will kill him if he speaks out. It's confirmed; it's here.
"Very well, here's your payment, thank you."
With a fierce and determined tone, Marshal handed him his due and departed with his group, leaving the mystery to deepen.
*
In a secluded corner of Haradi, a majestic forest nestled where the warm rays of the sun delicately weaved through the dense foliage of ancient trees. It was here, in the heart of this lush wilderness, that Marshal had everyone's attention. With sadness evident in his eyes, he had just narrated the grim reality of the life that Elacy and her son led, cunningly luring innocent souls towards their dire fate, consumed by a merciless demon.
"As I've said, we need to draw him out of hiding," Marshal began. "Now you might wonder, 'How are we going to do that?'. Well, it's simple. Demons crave individuals who are overwhelmingly powerful, beautiful, and alluring."
"What exactly are you suggesting?" Gwendoline asked.
"Tonight, two of you will perform on stage to lure him. When he arrives, the others will evacuate the audience, and I will confront and kill him."
"Two people?" Rogue inquired.
"The most beautiful or the most powerful among the Lost Ones. Or perhaps both."
As Marshal elaborated on his plan, Alora confidently stepped into the circle, adjusting her hair. "I'm the most beautiful in the group, haha! I volunteer."
"I didn't want to go anyway," Gwendoline replied in a playful, jealous tone.
"But I insist on performing as a cat dancer!"
Marshal was taken aback by this eccentric request, something Rogue was quick to notice: "That's Alora for you. Never try to understand her."
"If you wish, Alora. But we need another volunteer." One by one, eyes turned to Yanis, who was met with amused, knowing glances.
"Why are you all looking at me like that?!" he protested.
The group remained silent, their playful gazes creating a light-hearted mood.
"No way! I'm not dressing up as a cat or whatever!"
However, in a comedic twist, the very next scene showcased Alora and Yanis, both dressed in cat costumes, with everyone around them laughing at Yanis's disbelief.
"I swear, once this mission is over, you all are wearing these damn costumes, whether you like it or not!" Yanis grumbled.
"Don't be mad, it's for a good cause!" Jacob chuckled.
"I am perfectly calm, Jacob."
"You do look dashing, Yanis!" Alora teased.
*
Night fell over Haradi, casting an anticipatory shadow over the atmosphere. The bustling villagers and myriad entertainments filled the evening with vibrant colors and sounds. Atop a house, Marshal stood vigilantly, eyes piercing through the crowd, determined to spot any sign of the archdemon lurking amidst the cheerful masses.
Nearby, on Elacy's platform, Jacob and Rogue had been taking alternate rounds, hopeful of spotting the archdemon before any tragedy ensued. Garnal was also on the lookout, cautiously moving outside the crowd.
Behind Elacy's platform, where Yanis and Alora were to begin their performance to attract the archdemon, stood Gwendoline. Though the sounds of distant music and villagers' laughter permeated the background, she remained focused, keenly aware of the gravity of their mission.
"Are you there?" she whispered to the entity.
Receiving no answer, she sighed, disappointed by its silence. "You're really not one for conversation, are you?"
"You'll just ask me for spells, so why bother talking?"
"You seem to know everything."
"I am you, and you are me. I've seen your entire life, I am within you, remember?"
"Indeed. But I know nothing about you."
"You will, but not now."
"Not even your name?"
"No. Anyway, keep watch! You'll soon discover a wonderful ability I possess, and consequently, so do you."
Gwendoline pondered, what was this mysterious ability the entity spoke of?