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As if to punctuate his words, a heavy, dramatic thud reverberated through the building, shaking its foundations. Nwadiebeube and the others exchanged startled glances, thinking it was some kind of illusion or aftershock. But then, another thud followed, closer this time, more forceful.

Nwadiebeube, followed closely by his council members and the princess, rushed to the balcony. What they saw there stole their breath away.

In the distance, yet undeniably massive, was the largest apeling Nwadiebeube had ever seen. Its size was staggering, dwarfing anything he had previously witnessed. The apeling was clad in gleaming armor, and it carried an enormous pillar.