Chapter 3: The Deal with Arachne
I regarded Arachne warily, unsure of what to make of her proposal. On one hand, the prospect of regaining my powers and memories was tantalizing. On the other hand, I had no idea what Arachne's true motives were, or what kind of deal she was offering.
"What do you get out of this?" I asked Arachne, trying to keep my tone neutral.
Arachne's smile grew wider, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, Xandros," she said. "I get something much more valuable than mere power or wealth. I get your loyalty, your obedience, and your...cooperation."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. "Cooperation?" I repeated. "What kind of cooperation?"
Arachne's laughter was like a soft, menacing purr. "You'll see, Xandros," she said. "You'll see. But for now, let's just say that I have a certain...project in mind. And I need your help to bring it to fruition."
I hesitated, weighing my options. I could try to negotiate with Arachne, or attempt to flee. But something about her words resonated with me, a deep, primal urge to reclaim my former glory and take my rightful place as the Demon King.
"Alright," I said finally, extending a hand to Arachne. "I accept your proposal. But I warn you, Arachne...I am not a man to be trifled with. If you try to betray me, you will regret it."
Arachne's smile grew even wider, her eyes flashing with excitement. "I'm shaking in my boots, Xandros," she said, taking my hand in hers. "But I think we're going to get along just fine."
As soon as our hands touched, I felt a surge of energy run through me, a dark, pulsating power that seemed to awaken something deep within my soul.
I knew, in that moment, that I had made a deal with a being who was far more powerful than I was. And I wondered, with a growing sense of trepidation, what the true cost of our bargain would be.