Chapter 18: The Gates of Hell
As they reappeared, Alawis's anticipation grew. "Who governs the gates?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Valtira replied, "Xandros, a powerful demon and one of the 4 Deacons of Lord Niel."
Kael added, his voice laced with a hint of warning, "And infamous for his ruthlessness.
kael appeared out of thin air, like he was one with the darkness.
While appearing courteous, Kael bowed, his gaze never leaving Alawis. "Welcome, Lady Valtira, to our fortress."
Valtira intervened, her tone firm but polite. "Kael, behave."
Kael's smile hinted at mischief. "I mean no harm, Valtira. I'm merely curious about Alawis."
Valtira stepped forward, her presence a subtle barrier between Kael and Alawis. "Alawis, meet Kael, Lord Xandros's brother."
Kael just smiled and nodded, his piercing gaze making Alawis uneasy.
Their path led them to a fortress built into the rocky cliffs, its architecture a testament to the demons' mastery of stone and shadow. The gates swung open, revealing a cavernous hall where shadows danced and torches flared.
Xandros sat upon a throne-like chair, his eyes piercing as he surveyed the gathering. "Valtira, Kael," he acknowledged, his voice commanding attention.
"Lord Xandros," Valtira bowed, her respect evident.
Alawis followed suit, her heart quickening as Xandros's gaze locked onto her.
"Ah, the mortal," Xandros said, his tone measuring. "I had remembered you... The Middle Sinner, right?"
Alawis's unease deepened, sensing the weight of Xandros's scrutiny.
Xandros continued, his voice dripping with intrigue, "A demon trial is about to begin. You may observe."
A commotion erupted outside, and a demon was dragged in, struggling against the restraints.
"The accused," Xandros declared, his voice echoing off the stone walls.
The demon's crimes were recited, a litany of horrors that made Alawis's skin crawl.
Xandros turned to Alawis, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "What do you think? Guilty or innocent?"
Alawis hesitated, weighing the evidence.
"The evidence seems clear," she said finally, her voice firm.
Xandros nodded, a hint of approval in his expression. "Very well. The verdict is yours."
Alawis's eyes widened, the weight of responsibility settling upon her.
"Mine?" she asked, seeking confirmation.
Valtira whispered, her voice a gentle urging, "Trust your instincts."
Kael added, his tone laced with warning, "And consider the consequences."
Alawis took a deep breath, steeling herself for the decision.
"I find the demon... guilty."
Xandros smiled, his approval evident. "Your judgment is sound."
The demon's fate was sealed, and Alawis felt a shiver run down her spine.
As they departed, Alawis turned to Valtira, her questions burning.
"What consequences?" she asked, seeking clarification.
Valtira's expression turned serious. "The demon's fate affects the balance of power."
Kael added, his voice dripping with intrigue, "And your judgment has repercussions."
Alawis realized her decisions in Hell held significance, rippling through the complex web of demon politics.