"Even the darkest intentions begin as a quiet thought, but grow with every step taken in the shadows."
The Church of Atilda stood tall in the heart of the kingdom, its gothic spires piercing the cloudy sky like dark fingers stretching toward the heavens. Inside the sacred halls, cloaked figures moved in solemn silence. A group of high-ranking members gathered in a chamber, their faces hidden in the shadows.
Sola, one of the Church's elders, stood before the leader, Caligula, his voice laced with doubt. "Are you sure this is the right decision? Freeing those with demonic powers… are we prepared for what may come?"
Caligula's eyes, cold and calculating, glinted in the dim light. "We've prepared for this day for years, Sola. The ritual is set, and we can't waste time. The two demons have been freed from their prison. The power they carry will be instrumental in our plans. But don't worry, they will be watched closely. If anything strange happens, we'll handle it." His hand tightened around the chalice in front of him. "The rest will be freed in time."
Sola hesitated but nodded. The atmosphere in the room was heavy, the air thick with the weight of decisions yet to come.
Meanwhile, the Firebrand Mercenaries were trekking through a dense forest. Their campfire crackled as the evening wind rustled the leaves. They had traveled far, and the long journey had drained them, both physically and mentally. As they reached their destination, they stopped to rest. The mercenaries, worn from battle and exhaustion, gathered in the large tent of their leader, Arman
Arman, the stoic and wise leader of the group, sat at the table, his gaze fixed on the map before him. Randell, a sharp-eyed mercenary, approached with a concerned look.
"We should stop here for the night. Everyone needs rest," Randell suggested.
Arman nodded. "Yes, you're right. We've lost a few soldiers since After that Our departure . This will be a good place to rest."
Randell frowned. "This young man, Larious, is on the run from Atilda. They say he's wanted for his head. Do you know why?"
Arman looked up, his face darkening. "I don't know exactly. But I've heard rumors from some of the soldiers. They say he carries a demonic spirit within him. But don't tell anyone what I said. The less people know, the better."
Randell hesitated. "Are you sure about this? Don't you want them to know?"
Arman's eyes narrowed. "No, it'll only make things worse. Trust me.
Meanwhile, Larious, Lara, and Eryan were trying to find their rhythm and train together. Eryan, his brow furrowed in concentration, asked, "Do you think we can reach the limits of our power? That our weapons can push beyond their current abilities?"
Before either could respond, Andrius approached with a map in hand. "I've found a location, an ancient hideout. It's guarded by a beast, but there's something special about it—there's a water serpent guarding it. But it seems to be moving from its usual hiding place. This might be a mission you'll find interesting, Eryan. You already have its crystal, which means you've defeated Someone These monsters and learned some of its elemental techniques. This could be your chance to learn more."
Thus begins the new mission, one that will test their strength and abilities.
"In the midst of challenges, every step toward the truth is a new beginning, and every encounter with power is a test of will."