The peaceful breakfast in the longhouse was suddenly interrupted.
A guild messenger rushed in, out of breath, face pale with urgency. He bowed quickly and delivered the message in a trembling voice:
"Lord Grim! King Lukas! Urgent message from the Azure Kingdom capital guild!
A massive demon army is attacking the city! Many have already fallen — civilians, guards, adventurers… The situation is critical. Please send the heroes for help immediately!"
Lukas stood up instantly, shadows flaring around him. Miya's fox ears flattened, tail lashing once in anger. Liora looked worried but stayed composed beside her husband.
You remained calm. Something about this felt… too convenient. The timing, right after the Goddess's humiliation and her retreat to unseal the First Djinn, raised clear suspicion. This was almost certainly a distraction — a trap orchestrated by the Goddess and the Demon Lord to pull you or your group away from Rainbow Guardian City.
You made your decision quickly.
You turned to the four heroes (who had been eating with you) and spoke firmly:
"Go. Teleport to the capital and assist in the defense. Protect the people as best you can. We will monitor the situation from here."
With a snap of your fingers, you teleported the four heroes and a small support team directly to the Azure Kingdom capital.
You, Miya, Lukas, and Liora arrived a moment later in the royal throne room of the Azure Kingdom.
The King was standing, surrounded by panicked generals and bleeding messengers. The hall was in chaos — maps scattered, reports flying in.
The King looked relieved when he saw you.
"Lord Grim! Thank the moons you came! A massive demon army appeared out of nowhere at the northern walls. They're stronger than anything we've faced before. Thousands of them — led by several Demon Generals. We're losing ground fast. Many citizens have already been killed or captured. Please… help us!"
You stood tall, voice steady and cold.
"What's the exact situation? How many demons? Who is leading them? And why did they attack so suddenly?"
The King's generals quickly gave the details:
Over 10,000 demons, including many high-ranking ones.
Several Demon Generals (including Valthor, the same one who destroyed Eldenwood).
The attack started without warning an hour ago.
The city's defenses are crumbling. The royal army is being overwhelmed.
You listened carefully, eyes narrowing. This attack felt orchestrated — a deliberate distraction to pull your attention and resources away from whatever the Goddess was doing with the First Djinn.
Miya stood beside you, hand on Starfang, clearly ready to fight. Lukas's shadows coiled darkly. Liora stayed close, alert.
The King looked at you desperately.
"Lord Grim… will you help us? Or send your heroes to turn the tide?"