I Am The Game's Villain

At this, a small smile tugged at the corners of Grukelʼs lips as he followed Durathiel into the vast corridors of the palace while Kamarel scoffed lightly.

After a silent procession through dimly lit hallways, they arrived at the grand double doors of the throne hall. With a creak, the massive doors swung open, and Durathiel stepped forward, framed by the opulent glow of the hallʼs chandelier. His gaze swept across the scene before him.

Kendel Teraquin sat poised upon the throne, clothed in rich, resplendent robes typically reserved for the reigning monarch. His expression was imperious, his posture exuding an air of quiet arrogance. Flanking him was Allen Teraquin, who stood beside his brother with a somber look, his brows furrowed. A little further back were Glamir and Neia Teraquin, both watching the scene unfold with mixed expressions, the former with a grin and the latter conflicted.

Kamarelʼs gaze darkened as he observed the setup, Kendel Teraquinʼs decision to receive Durathiel from his elevated seat on the throne-a clear message that he intended to assert his authority, insisting that this was his domain.

With a small smile that barely reached his eyes, Kendel inclined his head. ”Greetings and welcome to Vanadias, Prince Durathiel.” ”...” Kendel stared at Kendel for a moment but didnʼt return the greetings.

Grukel stepped forward, his cane striking the marble floor with a resonant thud that took all attention in the throne hall. He gave a polite bow before lifting his gaze to meet Kendelʼs. ”Your Highness, our presence here is to confirm if the terms of our arrangement have been met.” ”...” Kendelʼs expression remained unreadable.

Grukelʼs lips curved in a knowing chuckle, ”Celeste Indi Zestella, the forthcoming Prophetess... Alvara Freydis Teraquin-the Princess, whom you assured would be present to discuss the union with His Royal Highness Durathiel.” His voice dropped slightly, taking on an edge. ”Let us not overlook Alector Raonpherys. Without him, it will be most hard to gain access to the Holy Tree of Eden. And lastly... the Seed of Eden.”

At this, a ripple of shock washed over the Teraquin siblings. Allenʼs eyes widened, his expression breaking in disbelief, while Neiaʼs hands clenched.

The Seed of Eden—a legendary artifact, an ancient Hallow of Eden, presumed lost amidst the devastation of the Blood Moon War. Whispers of its existence had persisted, though its precise whereabouts remained a mystery, buried deep within the lore of Sancta Vedelia. The thought that Kendel not only knew where to find it but had pledged it to Utopia was nothing short of shocking. ”Celeste Indi Zestella remains within the boundaries of the Forest of Ashenor. Once we dismantle the protective domain, capturing her will be inevitable. After all, her father is securely in our custody.” A faint smile crossed his lips. ”As for my sister, Alvara, she too is within Ashenor and should be exiting the forest soon.” ”Alector?” Grukel prompted. ”Currently in Central Vedelia,” Kendel replied. ”Likely he is already reinforcing the defenses there and closing its borders to the eight other Kingdoms.”

Grukel let out a low chuckle, a trace of amusement flickering in his eyes as he remembered the old Alector. ”The same selfish Alector.” ”The Seed.” Durathiel, who had remained silent until now, fixed Kendel with his gaze. Kendel met Durathielʼs gaze evenly. ”First,” he replied coolly, ”you will respect your part of the engagement. Your ambitions will remain but a dream as long as Lazarus Raven and Duncan Tepes draw breath on these grounds.”

They were the two names that Utopia was the most scared about as they were the two

Demigods of Sancta Vedelia.

Grukelʼs smile turned cold as he replied, ”Lazarus is no longer an obstacle,” he said, strangely certain. ”And, soon enough, neither will Duncan be.” ”So you think,” Kendel replied. ”Then you should have no qualms about arranging my engagement-with Freya Ruvelion.”

Kamarel stiffened slightly at the demand. Kendel was clearly playing his cards, using his own demands to ensure his control over the negotiations. Without Freyaʼs hand in marriage,

Kendel would not entrust any of them. Durathielʼs expression remained inscrutable. He took a single step forward, as he locked eyes with Kendel. ”Then bring me the Seed. You have two months.”

Then Durathiel turned on his heel. ”Otherwise what?” Kendel asked coldly. The underlying threat grated against his instincts, stirring a deep, unwelcome unease that twisted in his gut.