Chapter 78: Chapter 78: The Council Meeting

Capital City, Araknis Kingdom

In the heart of the Capital City of the Araknis Kingdom, stood the majestic King's Castle, an imposing structure that dominated the skyline.

Encircled by an artificial river that shimmered under the sunlight, the castle was a masterpiece of architecture and design, reflecting the wealth and power of the kingdom.

The castle itself rose like a colossal mountain, its towering height nearly 500 meters, with a sprawling radius of 50,000 square meters.

The castle's front walls were adorned with statues of legendary heroes, kings and the three guardians of Araknis kingdom, their lifelike features carved with such skill that they seemed ready to spring to life at any moment. Their power unmatched.

The thick stone walls, nearly impenetrable, wrapped around the castle like a fortress, their rough-shape surfaces bearing the marks of countless battles fought and won.

The air around the castle was charged with an aura of invincibility, a silent declaration that this was a stronghold not to be trifled with.

The King's Castle was not just a seat of monarchy; it was a symbol of the Araknis Kingdom's unyielding might and the unwavering rule of its king. The castle's very presence inspired both awe and fear, a proof of the legacy of kings who had ruled from its halls for generations.

.....

Passing through the expansive garden, where vibrant flowers bloomed in every color imaginable, we find a scene of royal leisure. The air was filled with the joyful laughter of princes and princesses, some chasing each other in playful games, while others engaged in friendly duels, their wooden swords clashing in spirited displays of skill.

Among them, a few valiant young princes, clad in gleaming armor, sparred with the precision of seasoned knights, their movements graceful and disciplined. The serene beauty of the garden, with its meticulously trimmed hedges and sparkling fountains, was a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere awaiting within the castle.

"Now, we would like to hear the full report about the incident. Chancellor, what do you have to say on this matter? This king would like to hear it."

The King's voice, though calm, carried an edge that demanded the truth. The room held its breath, awaiting the Chancellor's words.

The Chancellor, the kingdom's Prime Minister, drew the attention of every powerful figure in the room as he prepared to speak.

Despite the immense pressure weighing on him, he remained steadfast, though a slight tremor betrayed his inner anxiety.

He stood up from his seat, his eyes quickly scanned the room, noting the presence of the Marshal, the three great Guardian Generals, the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, a few patriarchs of prominent aristocratic families, and even a representative from the Kairos Empire. The responsibility on his shoulders was immense.

With a respectful bow to all present, the Chancellor began, "Your Majesty, from what we've gathered so far, the events leading up to the catastrophe in Arcadia City are deeply troubling. Before the disaster struck, the city was embroiled in a fierce battle against a beast rampage, which we now believe was orchestrated by demonic forces.

The defenders fought valiantly, united against the threat, and during the struggle, they encountered a Darkness-type colossus nearly 200 meters long. That creature was entirely unknown to them. Lord Longus Emberion, the city's lord, led the charge and ultimately defeated the colossus, but it came at a tremendous cost."

The Chancellor paused, his expression grim as he continued. "Then, just an hour or so later, something far more dreadful occurred. According to the few survivors who managed to escape the city's territory, a colossal shadow--a demonic creature of unimaginable size--appeared, seemingly enraged.

The creature was so vast that its mouth alone could engulf an entire mountain range. In mere seconds, it devoured the entire city. The citizens, caught completely off guard, had no time to react, let alone comprehend what was happening. In the blink of an eye, Arcadia was reduced to a hollow, dark pit--a void where life once thrived."

The Chancellor finished his report with a bow, then straightened up as he added, "That is all the information we have been able to gather so far, Your Majesty. Given the circumstances, your esteemed self may already have an idea of whose work this might be."

With a final nod from the King, the Chancellor took his seat, the tension in the room thickening as everyone awaited the King's response.