Chapter 2
The Child (2)
Rumors circulated that the Emperor had struck a deal with a demon. They said the creature had wings as vast as storm clouds—large enough to blot out the full moon—and that it had flown straight into the Emperor’s bedchamber.
Offer me a name, and I’ll give you all the kingdoms of this continent.
And so, the demon became the commander of the von Palestri Empire’s advance forces. True to its fearsome reputation, it crushed enemy troops like a tidal wave, often arriving before the main forces. For fifteen years, the von Palestri Empire’s army devoured every kingdom it encountered like a ravenous beast from hell.
“Or so the rumors go, Commander. I’m sure it’s an old story, but news travels slowly to the front lines, so I only heard it yesterday.”
Ivan, who was sprawled over the meeting table in the commander’s tent, glanced furtively at his superior, who had been sitting motionless for hours. Even today, his appearance was nothing short of astonishing.
