The mixed gathering of demons and human nobles represented exactly the kind of cross-species collaboration that could not only destabilise but perhaps destroy the human kingdom if left unchecked. This wasn't simple criminal activity; it was organised treason on a scale that threatened the very foundations of legitimate government.
The moment the door opened, every head in the chamber turned toward the unexpected intrusion. Fifty pairs of eyes, demonic and human alike, focused on the small group of investigators who had just shattered their secret meeting.
The silence that followed lasted only seconds before recognition dawned across multiple faces simultaneously.
"King Aldric!" Baron Richard's voice cracked with terror as he recognised the royal figure standing in the doorway.
"The human king!" shouted one of the adept-rank demons, his mind immediately assessing the threat level represented by an archmage-level opponent.
