"Stand up"

Hildanor didn't react immediately to Cliff's words. His reptilian gaze analyzed every detail, every movement of the "Sovereign" standing before them. Doubt lingered, but one thing was clear: this demon—or whatever he had become—was powerful. Even if he was of a higher rank, Hildanor knew it was best not to provoke him needlessly.

Mathilde, on the other hand, wore an amused smile, as if she found everyone's incredulity entertaining.

"Well, now that introductions are done, what do we do?" she asked, crossing her arms.

Cliff scanned the surroundings. The traces of battle were still evident—scorched earth, melted ice lingering in corrosive mist, and the metallic scent of burned mana still hanging in the air. There had been a serious fight here.

"I saw you heading somewhere earlier?" he finally asked.

Hildanor regained his composure. "We were on our way to Freiden's forward bastion. That's where our forces are gathering before the attack."