Chapter 294: Holy war 32

Hours before Adrian visited Lilliana, in a dimly lit room adorned with magical projections, Adrian sat with his sister as she meticulously combed her hair. Despite being a doll, her hair was incredibly soft, rivaling only their mother's in its texture.

They savored the moment, relishing in the silence and peace for a few more minutes before Nyarla finally broke the silence. "Adrian..."

"Yes?" he responded, turning his attention to her.

"Mother has suggested making use of the old ones," Nyarla said, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Adrian's brows furrowed in thought. The old ones, powerful as they were, were also known for their fanaticism and unpredictability. They would stop at nothing to serve their masters, even if it meant going against orders or causing chaos.

"Those monsters?" he asked, a hint of skepticism in his tone.

Nyarla nodded solemnly, confirming the information.

Adrian leaned back in his chair, considering the implications. While the old ones possessed immense power, their loyalty was questionable at best. Their unwavering devotion to their masters often led to unforeseen complications, especially in matters of control.

Control was paramount in their current situation, and introducing such unpredictable elements could tip the scales in unpredictable ways. Adrian weighed the risks and benefits carefully before speaking again.

"It's a risky move," he admitted, "but if we can harness their power without losing control, it could give us a significant advantage."

Nyarla nodded, understanding the gravity of the decision. They both knew that their mother's suggestion carried weight, but they also recognized the potential dangers of involving the old ones in their plans.

The old ones were essentially gods in their own right, born from the abominations and cosmic horrors much like Adrian's own race. They were beings of immense power, not meant to be controlled, yet their potential influence in the war was undeniable.

"Since the goddess has invited a certain mysterious pantheon to her side, we should invite some friends of our own, right?" Nyarla suggested, attempting to persuade Adrian.

After careful consideration, Adrian eventually nodded, weighing the advantages and risks. Utilizing the great old ones could offer multiple strategic advantages, particularly in heavily fortified areas.

"Alright... let's make use of them. But how are we going to open the gate without alerting the laws of causality?" Adrian queried.

The laws of causality were already leaning towards the goddess's side due to her immense power. Adding more to it could potentially shift the balance entirely, allowing her to exert even greater influence while inadvertently restraining their own abilities.

"It's simple, really... we just need a vessel capable of housing them. And we have just the right person for that," Nyarla explained.

"You mean...?" Adrian trailed off, already sensing where his sister was leading.

"Yes. We'll make use of Lilliana, Adrian," Nyarla confirmed.

"For what reason does thee seek counsel?" A third voice chimed in, its tone tinged with a hint of intrigue.

Adrian took a moment to gather his thoughts, knowing the importance of their request. "We seek guidance in restoring balance to the world," he conveyed, his mental projection carrying the weight of their purpose.

"Hooooh?" The voices echoed, overlapping in a symphony of ancient inquiry.

Lilliana stood beside Adrian, her expression a mixture of apprehension and resolve. Despite the overwhelming presence of the ancient beings, she remained steadfast, her will bolstered by Adrian's assurance.

As the voices continued to reverberate through their minds, Adrian felt a sense of relief wash over him, knowing that Lilliana was protected by the stone he had embedded within her soul.

Adrian's smile widened as he finally beheld the faces of the ancient beings, their expressions ranging from astonishment to reverence as they recognized the presence before them.

"The great mother's presence!" One of them exclaimed, his voice reverberating with awe.

As each of the old gods slowly realized who he was, they paid their respects in their own unique ways. Fortunately, Lilliana remained oblivious to their true identities, a fact that relieved Adrian. Revealing their intentions to her prematurely could jeopardize their plan.

With a subtle telepathic message, Adrian urged them to play along, knowing that their cooperation was essential for the success of their endeavor. Despite the risk of deception, he believed it was necessary for Lilliana's safety and the greater good.

"Hello, oh great old gods," Adrian addressed them aloud, projecting confidence despite the uncertainty swirling within him. "Would you be interested in earning your freedom, perhaps?"

The chamber fell silent as the ancient beings exchanged glances, their features betraying a mix of shock and confusion. Adrian knew that his proposition challenged the very fabric of their existence, but he remained steadfast in his resolve.

As the tension mounted, Adrian stole a glance at Lilliana, his heart heavy with the weight of their deception. He knew that their actions were necessary, but the guilt gnawed at him nonetheless. Still, he was willing to bear the burden if it meant protecting her.

The ancient beings deliberated amongst themselves, their voices blending into a murmured symphony that echoed through the chamber. Adrian watched intently, his mind racing with possibilities as he waited for their response.

Finally, one of the old gods stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. "Speak, mortal," he intoned, his voice resonating with the weight of ages. "What is it that you seek from us?"

Adrian took a deep breath, steeling himself for the task ahead. "We seek your assistance in a matter of great importance," he began, his words measured and deliberate. "There are forces at play that threaten the balance of this world, and we require your aid to ensure its preservation."

The ancient beings regarded him with a mixture of skepticism and curiosity, their eyes betraying a wisdom that surpassed mortal understanding. Adrian sensed their uncertainty, but he remained steadfast in his conviction.

"We understand the risks involved," Adrian continued, his voice unwavering. "But we believe that together, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way."

The chamber fell silent once more as the ancient beings pondered his words. Adrian held his breath, his heart pounding in his chest as he awaited their decision.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the leader of the old gods nodded solemnly. "Very well," he rumbled. "We shall lend you our aid, mortal. But know this – the path you tread is fraught with peril, and the consequences of your actions may be dire indeed."