[Edanian Journey] Angavu Outpost

Chapter 2: From Among the Least

Alustin told us that Edania had been declared the "Demon Realm," and that a full-scale subjugation would soon begin.

Valencia seemed ready to lend its full support as well. Even Princess Saya had come to Hakinza Sanctuary, and Isobelle had apparently given up her leave for Elion's Ascension Day to be here.

Seeing figures of power from two hostile nations join forces against a common enemy, with me somehow serving as the link between them, brought back memories of all the adventures that had led me here.

Before the subjugation began in earnest, we held a grand feast. Thanks to support from the Valencian royal family, Hakinza's kitchens were well stocked, and the tables were filled with delicious food.

But once again, the peace did not last.

As Mariam carried food and drink, a dark crimson aura wrapped around her body and lifted her into the air. Her eyes shone gold.

"G-g-golden sand-colored eyes!"

The moment <b>Bahram</b> saw her, he dropped to the floor in reverence. He was not bowing to Mariam, but to the being manifesting through her.

"Unto the least of this world, I come and proclaim."

The voice belonged to <b>Aal</b>. The god of the sands whom the Hashashin had worshiped for ages was speaking before us through Mariam.

"The Sanctuary shall be closed, and the doors of Alyaelli beneath it sealed forever."

Hakinza Sanctuary had endured through the sacrifices of Aal's followers, all to protect the doors of Alyaelli. Yet now their own god was commanding them to abandon the Sanctuary and seal those very doors forever.

Then Aal noticed me. His golden eyes fixed on me without the slightest wavering.

"King of mortals. Witness the <b>fall of this world</b>."

The moment he finished speaking, monsters began pouring into the Sanctuary. As if to prove that Aal's declaration had been more than a warning, they shattered the peace in an instant.

The people of the Sanctuary were thrown into confusion, unsure whether they should fear Aal's will or the monsters before them more. But the enemy in front of me was clear enough.

To protect the Sanctuary, I took up my weapon once more.