Chapter 12 — Division 2
Zero and Kyren moved silently through the dense forest of Division 4, keeping close to the shadows. Each step was measured, every rustle of leaves avoided. The patrols of the Demon Race were frequent here, and the closer to the center of the region, the more controlled and dangerous the area. Zero's sense is on high alert - any slip-up could attract the attention of a larger squad or force.
"Stay close," Zero whispered to Kyren. "We can't risk a direct confrontation. Not yet."
Kyren nodded, her presence nearly invisible, blending seamlessly with Zero's shadows. They moved like phantoms, slipping past patrols and avoiding any signs of detection.
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Base Camp Division 5
Far ahead, Base Camp Division 5 stand very firm. The camp was under the command of Commander Zephyros and Captain Talrik, both of the Xynthera clan. Zephyros' wind and lightning aura radiated authority, while Talrik's water and lightning elemental powers shimmered beneath his calm exterior.
Zephyros was a veteran of the Great War a century ago. He had led the remaining Demon Race forces after their generals fell, keeping the remnants alive and disciplined. His ability, Dimensional Rebirth, allowed him to use fragments of other-dimensional souls to revive fallen demons into loyal soldiers. A century ago, he had even opened a portal to bring in the new Demon General and the troops from Divisions 1 through 4.
Captain Talrik had been selected by Zephyros during the tournament for the new Division 5 captain, proving himself capable and worthy to guard the base. He now oversaw the perimeter and trained soldiers with precision, ensuring no outsiders infiltrated their domain.
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The Plan
Inside the camp, Zephyros and Talrik spoke in quiet tone
"Now is the time," Zephyros said, wind crackling faintly around him. "The world of Zerath is unstable. It is the perfect moment to summon the Demon Lord."
Talrik's eyes glinted. "The ritual… it will need immense power and sacrifices. Are the troops ready?"
"They will be," Zephyros replied. "The fallen will return to serve. But I will need you to hold this base tightly. Reports indicate outsiders moving through the forests.... perhaps old warriors from a hundred years ago. Stay vigilant."
Talrik nodded, tightening his grip on his staff, the waters swirling lightly with electric sparks. "Understood, Commander. The base will remain secure."
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Zero's Unease
Meanwhile, Zero felt it — a presence unlike any Demon Race he had encountered. Shadows flickered between the trees, movement swift and controlled. Not demons, but highly skilled beings, observing them.
He felt his pulse quicken. "Kyren… something's here. Not demons. But… powerful."
Kyren's eyes narrowed, scanning the perimeter. "We need to keep moving. Avoid engagement. Our main priority is Division 2."
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Memory of Kyren and Serena
Zero recalled Kyren's earlier conversations with Captain Serena, the vampire Race captain of Division 4. They had discussed which stones, future plans while the commander of the 4th division was away, Zero thought of negotiating. Maybe Serena could hear his explanation.... but here, in enemy territory, Zero knew he couldn't risk being exposed. His presence had to remain invisible.
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Word of Voltraz
Even now, the words of Commander Voltraz echoed in his mind:
"I know you're there. When the time comes… we will meet again."
The threat lingered, a constant pressure over Zero and Kyren. Any misstep could draw attention from the Division 3 commander.
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A New Beast Appeared
As they approached the outskirts of Division 2, Zero froze. Ahead, a massive creature stirred.... at first he thought it was the Abyss Devourer he had once defeated. But a closer look revealed differences: larger, fiercer, and with a more chaotic, fierce aura.
"This… isn't the Abyss Devourer," Zero muttered.
Kyren's hand instinctively went to his weapon. "Something else... the Demon General's beast."
They circled carefully, slipping from shadow to shadow, avoiding any direct confrontation. Every move had to be precise; one wrong move could awaken the creature and harm their mission.
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Approaching Division 2
Zero and Kyren moved forward, silent as night. Division 2 Base Camp stood ahead, their destination drawing closer with each cautious step.
At the same time, Zephyros and Talrik could sense movement.... strong, foreign auras advancing towards them. The ritual to summon the Demon Lord was imminent, and the threads of destiny began to intertwine.
Zero's eyes narrowed, his resolve hardened. Every discission, every heartbeat mattered now. The next step would determine more than survival.... it would hold the balance for all of Zerath.