The afternoon sun filtered through the stained-glass windows of King Alistair's throne room, casting an air of solemnity on the gathered heroes. Alex stood before them, his face etched with worry. King Alistair, a wizened man with a regal beard, leaned forward on his throne.
"So, you're saying the Demon King himself launched an attack?" the King asked, his voice heavy with concern.
Alex nodded grimly. "Yes, Your Majesty. But his goal wasn't your life this time. He came for Olivia, one of Sebastian's students."
A collective gasp resonated through the room. All eyes turned towards Sebastian, who stood rigid by the window, his face a mask of shame and disbelief. Olivia, his most promising student, the quiet girl who was always by his side, had turned traitor?
Shame burned in Sebastian's chest. He had sensed Olivia's growing darkness, but had he failed to act? Had his teachings been inadequate? He clenched his fists, anger warring with despair within him.
