Winds of Change (DxD)

Volume 7 - Chapter 22 - Kritānukūla*

Word count: 70k

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Third Person Point of View

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Elanor contemplated Morwenna's passing while playing with a holographic globe, her thoughts shrouded in a somewhat solemn mood. "It seems Morwenna's departure is permanent. A regrettable loss indeed; she was one of my most favorite pieces," she murmured quietly, her fingers gliding across the globe's surface.

A full day had passed since the events at Qurastale Nexus. Elanor remained watchful, her attention fixed on the vanished planet. The sudden disappearance, coinciding with Eyhylde's demise, revealed a clear understanding within Elanor's mind.

Rising from her seat, Elanor walked toward a modest shelf, taking a book with deliberate grace. "I wonder about the impact on her species. Despite her position as a societal outsider, will her species hold resentment toward the Resistance, will they declare war?" she mused aloud, her gaze wandering into the distant realms of thought.

Returning to her desk, Elanor started a holographic video playback, her demeanor composed yet she had a grin on her face.

Another holographic display sprung to life, endlessly looping a video of Valagor's declaration of war against Phumera's organization. His sudden announcement to launch immediate attacks on their conquered planets filled the room, infusing it with an undeniable sense of urgency.

Valagor wasted no time in carrying out his fervent intentions, swiftly mobilizing his forces to fulfill his promise. Reports began to trickle in, confirming the actions on at least four planets, each lacking the presence of the Eradicator, Ueboros, or Umbra, making them susceptible to rapid conquest by Valagor's species.

In the aftermath of these quick and resolute actions, Phumera, the central figure of the targeted organization, remained conspicuously silent. Despite the urgency of the situation, her lack of response left her associates and allies in a state of obvious anticipation, eagerly awaiting her next move with bated breath.

Settling back into her chair, Elanor wore a thoughtful expression. "It's glaringly obvious," she remarked, her voice tinged with a hint of admiration. "Phumera's silence in response to Valagor's declaration serves a calculated purpose-to allow the enemy to extend their reach, fostering a facade of false victory. And when the time is ripe, she'll extinguish their hopes without mercy."

A wry grin played upon Elanor's lips, an indication to her appreciation for Phumera's strategic cruelty. "She possesses a cunning ruthlessness that I personally love," she added, her amusement evident in her widening smirk. With a hearty laugh, Elanor delved into the surveillance feeds from other planets under Valagor's new jurisdiction, each one proof to her meticulous monitoring.

Despite the temptation to intervene, Elanor, like Phumera and her loyal allies, chose a path of calculated restraint. Ecthrois, the leader among Phumera's subordinates, had made it clear to the others: hold back and await the opportune moment. This directive found support in the lack of action from Infersos and echoed in Elanor's own decision. Thus, a collective agreement emerged among Phumera's associates to bide their time, observing with poised patience as events unfolded according to plan.

"Only time will reveal the outcome of these events. We will watch with great interest," Elanor stated, lounging comfortably in her chair, her gaze drifting to the holographic displays that adorned her workspace. "As for those persistent insects, they may hover around, but they will not attack me or this planet. The instructions of their outer god will make them hesitate."

A mischievous glint appeared in Elanor's eyes as she shifted her attention to another display, considering the potential reaction of her unsuspecting target. "But... will you take that bait?" she reflected, a playful grin playing on her lips. "Your compassionate nature may lead you to visit the planet once ruled by Raerea. The changes I have arranged there will be quite a spectacle."