Started

The next day came, and Clyde woke from a deep and undisturbed sleep.

He stretched lazily on his bed, his body moving with the ease of someone who could almost pretend he was about to start a normal, mundane day—as if he were still just a boy and not something much more.

A faint smile tugged at his lips. He was excited. He had something to do today.

Outside his window, there was no sun. No clouds. No weather. Just the same eternal night sky that always loomed over this particular Ruin.

This world—the one where the mansion stood—was another forgotten plane, hidden deep within the layered realms. It had been prepared for him by Demon Duchess Graemory, a perfect hiding place far from the eyes Celestials and Angels alike.

Clyde stood and made his way to the cold shower. The icy water splashed over his skin, and still, that smile remained. It wasn't the shower itself that excited him.