The grand doors of the throne room creaked open, revealing three imposing figures. Their demonic forms cast long shadows across the obsidian floor.
"These three are our elite troops," Malachi announced, gesturing to the veterans. "They will serve as your training partners. Defeat them all while having full control of your hellfire form and you're ready."
Eldo sank deeper into the throne, his eyes darting between the three elite demons. Despite his earlier confidence, doubt began to creep in. The raw power emanating from these beings made his throat go dry. He'd faced Winter in combat before, but these creatures... they were something else entirely.
The first demon stepped forward, his humanoid form was covered in dark green scales that seemed to absorb the flickering firelight with a snake for a left arm, and dragon-like wings folded against his back.
"I am Typhon," he announced, his voice carrying the weight of many souls. "And I still fail to see why we should waste our time training one so... unworthy of the throne." His serpent arm flicked dismissively in Eldo's direction. "Though I suppose a proper thrashing might whip you into shape."
A feminine figure moved past him with fluid grace. Despite her werewolf-like appearance, her face remained strikingly human and beautiful, a jarring contrast that made her all the more unsettling.
"Don't mind grumpy scales over there," she said with a playful growl, sharp teeth glinting as she smiled. "I'm Kishi, and honestly?" She shrugged, tail swishing behind her. "I couldn't care less if you break during training. It'll be fun either way!"
The third demon towered over the others, his purple skin seeming to pulse with otherworldly energy. Three distinct heads turned in unison to regard Eldo, each wearing an identical expression of calculated interest.
"And I am Bael," all three heads spoke in perfect harmony. "We look forward to testing your limits, young master. Great things await, should you survive our instruction."
Eldo gripped the arms of the throne tighter, trying to hide his growing apprehension. These weren't just demons—they were forces of nature given form. And somehow, he was supposed to prove himself worthy against all three.