Chapter 60: "Sorcery's Gamble"

"Venturing beyond these kingdom walls is perilous; magic users outside are a noose waiting to ensnare, so we need help of the witches, they're the one we need to get to Ajé kingdom without being noticed or captured" Prince Rogba emphasized, urgency resonating in his words.

"The witches? Beware, for they are masters of deception and guile," the king cautioned, concern etched on his furrowed brow.

"Forget not, you are the monarch of both witches and wizards, and I, their heir," the prince reminded resolutely, recognizing the dire need for immediate action to prevent the Jagud Invaders from seizing the kingdom's vulnerable territories.

"Arewa, can you assist me?" he beseeched his beloved.

"I stand ready to aid you," she replied, determination in her eyes.

"Assist me in opening a portal to Osoro," he implored, referring to the perilous witches' realm known for treachery.

"What?" she exclaimed, taken aback.

"I swear not to engage them. I seek their assistance, nothing more," he reassured.

"Be warned, they will demand a sacrifice in return," she cautioned.

"I'll meet their demands," he affirmed, undeterred. She opened the portal, and he ventured into the perilous realm.

"Welcome, heir of the silver throne," the queen witch greeted.

"Greetings to the mother of earth, the sovereign of the terrestrial realm, she who adorns her wrist with countless garments without touching the ground, the consumer of human liver without repulsion," he responded, showing reverence.

"Welcome, heir of the union between wizard and witches. How may I assist you?" the queen inquired.

"I seek a minor favor—to fortify myself for the journey to Ajé kingdom besieged by enemies," he cautiously requested.

"I shall assist, but a sacrifice will be required, a price I shall claim," she declared.

"Name it," he accepted, understanding the gravity of the bargain. After the agreement, he vanished with the witch queen's aid, reappearing in the Ajé kingdom's throne room.

"Greetings to the king of this great kingdom," he respectfully greeted.

"Greetings to the heir of the silver throne. Dare you enter my den with magic?" the king questioned, suspicion in his eyes.

"I intended no disrespect, great king. We seek your aid; my kingdom is embroiled in chaos due to the Jagud Invaders. With your support, triumph is possible," he implored, desperation lacing his voice.

"We approached you for aid once, and you denied our alliance. How do we trust you now?" the king challenged, skepticism evident.

"Your majesty, circumstances have led us here again, seeking your assistance. We are now prepared to forge an alliance," he earnestly assured.

"How can we be certain of your word?" the king inquired, contemplating their proposition.

"Father, I believe in him. Let us extend our help," the crown prince interjected, conviction firm. After a prolonged silence, the king nodded in approval.

In the north-east, a soldier delivered grim tidings, "General, there's no apparent escape from the kingdom, and the kingdom aiding the Jagud Invaders remains unknown."

"Akin, return to the north-east to reinforce our commanders and the princes. The dukes are doing their utmost," the general ordered.

"We need more time to strategize; our armies are vastly outnumbered. Let us await Prince Rogba's return," he suggested. A commander entered, adding to the mounting challenges, "Our resources are dwindling."