Luke and Alden raced through the mountains, the sound of demons close behind them. The sharp rocks tore at their boots, and the freezing wind cut through their clothes.
"Don't stop!" Alden shouted, his voice steady despite the danger.
Luke's heart pounded. The man with red eyes had seen them, and now the demons were hunting them. But they couldn't afford to be caught not when they had critical information for the king.
Finally, after what felt like hours, they reached the forest at the base of the mountains. The demon screeches grew fainter, and soon the only sound was their heavy breathing.
Alden leaned against a tree, his sword in hand. "We're safe... for now."
Luke wiped the sweat from his brow. "That man... he knew we were there. It's like he was expecting us."
Alden frowned. "That's what worries me. He wasn't just leading those demons, he's planning something bigger. And now he knows we're onto him."
The King's Decision
When they returned to the capital, the city was alive with activity. Soldiers trained in the courtyards, blacksmiths hammered weapons, and messengers hurried to and from the palace. The kingdom was preparing for war.
Luke and Alden reported to the king immediately. In the grand hall, Luke described the valley of demons and the strange ritual the red-eyed man was performing.
The king's face darkened as he listened. "A ritual," he said. "He's not just leading the demons, he's summoning more of them."
Alden nodded. "And if he succeeds, we won't have enough soldiers to stop them."
The king stood. "We'll send our strongest forces to the western mountains. If this is where the demons are gathering, we must strike first."
Luke hesitated. "Your Majesty, I want to join the attack."
The king looked at him, his expression serious. "You've proven your strength, Luke, but this mission will be dangerous. Are you sure?"
Luke nodded firmly. "I can't just stand by. I've seen what the demons can do. I need to fight."
The king placed a hand on Luke's shoulder. "Then you will lead a squad with Alden. May your courage inspire others."
A New Responsibility
Luke felt a mix of pride and fear as he prepared for the mission. He was no longer just a boy from a small village he was now a leader.
Alden helped him gather his team: ten skilled warriors, each with their own strengths. There was Mira, a sharp-eyed archer; Jace, a heavy-armored knight; and Elena, a healer with a calm but commanding presence.
As they gathered supplies, Mira approached Luke. "So, you're the famous 'Hero of the Capital.' Hope you live up to the stories."
Luke smiled awkwardly. "I'll do my best."
Jace laughed. "Don't worry, kid. We'll watch your back. Just make sure you watch ours."
Elena placed a hand on Luke's arm. "Leadership isn't about being the strongest. It's about keeping your people together. Remember that."
Luke nodded, feeling the weight of his new role.
A Farewell Gift
Before they left, Luke visited the palace blacksmith. The king had promised him a special weapon, crafted by the best smith in the city.
The smith handed Luke a shining sword, its blade etched with intricate patterns. "This blade is forged from starsteel," the smith said. "It's light but stronger than any other metal. It'll cut through demon hide like butter."
Luke held the sword, feeling its perfect balance. "Thank you," he said.
The smith grinned. "Just make sure you bring it back in one piece."
The Journey to the Mountains
The squad set out at dawn. The road to the mountains was long, and tension hung over the group like a dark cloud. Everyone knew what was at stake.
One night, as they camped near a river, Luke noticed Mira sitting alone, sharpening her arrows. He walked over.
"Couldn't sleep?" he asked.
Mira shrugged. "I'm used to danger, but this... it feels different. Like we're walking into something we don't understand."
Luke sat beside her. "I feel the same way. But if we don't fight, who will?"
Mira smiled faintly. "Fair point. Just don't get yourself killed, 'Hero.'"
The First Encounter
As they neared the western mountains, the air grew colder. The group moved cautiously, their eyes scanning the shadows.
Suddenly, Mira raised her hand. "Stop. Something's up ahead."
The group froze, weapons ready. A low growl echoed through the trees, and a pack of demons emerged, their glowing eyes fixed on the squad.
"Hold the line!" Luke shouted, raising his sword.
The battle was fierce. The demons were fast and relentless, but Luke's training paid off. His new sword cut through them easily, and his team fought with skill and unity.
When the last demon fell, the group stood catching their breath.
"That was just a scouting party," Alden said grimly. "The real fight is still ahead."
The Hidden Path
The next day, they found a hidden path leading deeper into the mountains. Strange markings covered the rocks, glowing faintly in the dim light.
"These symbols," Elena said, tracing one with her fingers. "They're old much older than the kingdom. They're a warning."
Luke stared at the symbols, a chill running down his spine. "A warning of what?"
Before anyone could answer, the ground shook, and a deep roar echoed through the valley.
Alden drew his sword. "We're about to find out."