Death's End

Chapter 5 - Demon's Seduction

The soft cries of ravens punctuated the air.

"We have to split to pursue...Zenvix," said Jerius in the midst, as the group hid in the woods overlooking the burning city of Nox in the yonder. Soldiers and civilians around them were in shock; many cried and healers scrambled around to nurse those who were wounded. Barely four hundred of them, including Zenvix's retainers and personal guards, were left in the aftermath.

Zenvix glanced around, knowing the information Jerius unpacked on them was more than any of them could bear. The shadow-advisor to Nox, Aderis Kilfir had gone rogue, orchestrating her destruction to invoke the Ritual of Keys.

Jerius finished. "Zen, the whole diplomatic mission was a sham. You were deliberately sent away. And you said you were ambushed on your way back?"

The prince nodded, furrowing his brows as he continued to process the horror.

"No doubt that was on Aderis too," Jerius said. "He's no longer an ally."

"Magicians can be such a problem," Yurisiviel chided. "The world will be a better place without magic."

The very same magic brought you here, Yaleheart, and gave you a second chance. You should respect that," Jerius rolled his eyes, though it went unnoticed in the dark. "And if Conjuror Vapos didn't catch on and leave an arcane message for us on not just Aderis's treachery but his plan on the Ritual of Keys, we would still be prowling the darkness, seeking an answer."

"No words can mar the truth," Yurisiviel said in a flat tone.

"Alright that's enough," Zenvix cut in, his voice weary. He had no time for petty quarrels. They had all just lost their home, when the last they left it stood tall and firm. His heart was raw with grief, but to remain stoic he must, even if it was only on the surface. "We'll follow your suggestion, Jerius. You head to the Guild, and we Ceil. I can send a few guards with you, or Sir Dylas-"

"-I'll go along," Jerius said. "The sorcerer's pride is not to be trifled with, especially in the place where magic reigns mightiest. Best I handle this myself. I've my own plans."

He then took from his pocket a small stone and passed it to the prince. "Take this stone with you; it is one of a pair and will identify us to each other. With Aderis's schemes, you can't know if it's truly me you see the next time we meet."

"Where will we gather once more?" Zenvix asked simply.

"That stone will also serve as a way for me to reach you. I will find some way to communicate with you through that. Just remember: the code word is Kush'Tar."

Zenvix nodded, then arched his eyebrow in concern. "You sound like you are not even sure. What if you can't find a way?"

"I will," Jerius said in a tone of confidence.