The master spy or Puss in the boot adventures

Nyx, the grand necromancer Part 49

As they moved swiftly after Vespera, the air thickened with anticipation. Shadows danced around them, flickering like restless spirits as the group navigated through the twisted hallways of the ancient temple. The glow of the Heartstone still resonated within them, providing comfort amidst the encroaching darkness.

"We need to be careful," Shadow-Cat warned, her senses heightened. "The automatons will be drawn to the surge of magic we just unleashed. They'll be searching for us."

"Then we must move quickly," Vespera replied, urgency lacing her tone. "This way." She gestured toward a narrow passage that branched off to the left, its mouth swallowed by the blackness.

Mer-Mer felt a surge of adrenaline; he couldn��t shake the feeling that they were being watched, even here. "How far does this tunnel go?" he asked as he picked up his pace, staying close to Vespera.

"It leads to an old hideout used by those who resisted Solaris long ago," Vespera explained as they ventured deeper into the shadows. "We should find supplies there—food, weapons, and perhaps useful information about his operations."

The deeper they went, the more ancient magic seemed to pulse in the air. Strange symbols carved into the walls glimmered faintly as if awakening from a long slumber. Mer-Mer ran his paw over one, feeling a resonance that sent shivers down his spine.

"What are these?" Latina asked, glancing at the markings with curiosity mingled with caution.

"Runes of protection," Vespera replied. "Left by those who worshipped here before. They speak of unity against tyranny—an echo of resistance."

Ragnar chuckled nervously as they moved cautiously past a particularly large rune shaped like an entwined serpent. "I could use some unity right about now... especially if it means protecting my body from more sonic waves!"

"Keep your voice down!" Shadow-Cat urged playfully while rolling her eyes. But there was underlying tension in her words; every second felt like a countdown until Solaris would unleash his full wrath upon them.

Suddenly, Vespera halted abruptly, raising her hand to signal for silence. The group leaned closer, straining their ears toward a distant clattering sound—the unmistakable approach of mechanical feet echoing through the tunnels.

"They're coming!" she whispered urgently. "Into that alcove!"

They quickly ducked into a small side chamber just off the main path, pressing themselves against damp stone walls as they concealed themselves in shadow. The sound intensified as several automatons passed by their hiding spot, their harsh voices echoing ominously.

"Searching for intruders!" one sentinel announced in its cold monotone voice. "Magic disturbance detected in Temple Ruins. Proceed with caution."

Mer-Mer held his breath, heart racing as he watched through a narrow crack in their temporary refuge. He could feel the dark tendrils of shadow magic at his fingertips—a reminder of both power and peril.

Stealing glances at each other, they exchanged silent determinations; if they got out alive today—or any day—they would end Solaris' reign over their lives once and for all.

After what felt like an eternity, the sounds of clanking metal faded...

" Now, said Mer-mer and rise and raised his hand...

Suddenly a dog stood in front of him and sniffed the air. Not just any dog but one with ruby eyes and iron jaws.

" Good dog!" shouted Ragnar." Here's a bone"

The dog glared at him, its ruby eyes unblinking, letting out a sporadic metallic howl.

" What's up Pooch?"

Behind him appeared a figure , swathed in a black robe. Curled fingers gripped a staff... but what...

The staff was made of human bones strung on an iron rod, and at its tip were small human heads.

"Nyx," Vespera almost groaned.

" Yes!" smiled Nyx in a grotesque mask. " The last time escaped us, Vespera ! But this time you and your companions will be our dear guests !"

"Who is this scrawny wizard? Spartacus shouted and drew his sword. I will cut off his head like a chicken..."

"Watch out, Spartacus...shouted Vespera. It's Nyx, the grand necromancer. He is the master of curses ..."

"Master or not against cold steel, he doesn't stand a chance," Latina said, standing beside Spartacus.

"No chance against all of us!" said Ragnar, raising his sword. 'For you the mage, and for me the dog."

In the next instant their chances diminished for behind the necromancer appeared a sub-units... 

One was similar to the dog that was beside the wizard, but the other... was... something not of this world...

A DEMON....

Unexpectedly, Mer-Mer felt the black mark on his neck stir and a plume of smoke began to come out of it... which was going straight towards the Demon...

"What will you command, my lord? ,"came a deep, grave voice.

"We need those alive!" the necromancer said, raising his staff and pointing at Shadow-cat and Mer-Mer. Leave Vesper to me, and these- he pointed to Spartacus, Ragnar and Lanita...you can drink their souls...

As the necromancer fidgeted, the demon walked towards Mer-mer, drawn by the strange crimson smoke...

No one realized that the demon was walking towards its true master, Mer-mer... Not even Mer-mer himself.