Meet with the King

The group raced down the hall, skillfully avoiding tables overflowing with a variety of dishes. Before long, they arrived at the door that led to the corridor.

When faced with the guards, they were quite surprised. Anticipating knights brandishing enormous swords, they were surprised to come face to face with two men in suits armed with holstered guns.

“Are you guys the Heathers?” one of them asked in a Russian accent.

"Yes, yes we are," Caville replied promptly. The man gave a regal nod and led them to the grand king’s hall.

Everyone acknowledged the situation, except for Xavier, who simply stared them down with intensity.

As they stepped into the hall, they were welcomed by the elaborate dragon scale patterns that guided them towards the throne. The monarch donned quite the ensemble - a cap, a grand robe, boots, and wielded a golden staff intricately shaped like a serpent.

“So, are these the famous Heathers?” the king boomed with laughter.

“Yes, sire,” one of his butlers replied. The regal figure rose from his seat and made his way towards them.

“Welcome to my kingdom of Hemor, and—you must be the great Asiris.”

“Yes,” Asiris confirmed with a smile that swiftly disappeared. "I have a little favor to ask of you."

“Alright, come on in and let's head to my dining room.”

Tea and cinnamon rolls were on the menu, much to the delight of the children, though Caville didn't seem too thrilled.

“So, what was your request?” asked the king casually, taking a sip of his tea.

On a quest to locate the elusive Heather Eye in order to vanquish the Ikes.

“Oh yes, the general told me,” the king acknowledged. "And you wanted some help?"

“Yes, your majesty.”

Out of nowhere, the king let out a sigh and ran his fingers through his hair.

"I'm afraid that might be a bit of a stretch."

"Excuse me?" Asiris let out a hiss, eyes widening in utter disbelief.

"You see, my kingdom has been basking in tranquility for over two centuries. Every monarch has reigned in tranquility and prosperity. We are clearly not prepared for any kind of conflict.

But Asiris argued passionately, "There will be a war whether we like it or not." The Ikes seem determined to wipe us out, willing to go to any lengths to achieve their goal.

"I'm sorry, but my answer is final," the king declared, swiftly rising from his seat.

Asiris mimicked his actions, suggesting he had a significant point to make.

"You know, we saw a camp of Ikes just behind your walls."

The monarch's eyes grew even wider as he advanced towards Asiris.

“How did you guys know?” he stammered. At the peak of the hill, we were greeted by a multitude of Ikes setting up camp. And we certainly had a splendid view.

The monarch placed his hand on his head in a mix of astonishment and dread.

“Now, if we assist you and emerge victorious in the battle, will you be willing to support us in this war—the war that jeopardizes all of humanity?”

With deliberate slowness, the monarch turned his gaze towards Asiris and delivered his response.

“Fine, just get these Ikes off my palace!”

Sure thing, your highness.

In the end, the Heathers rose from their seats and made their way to the door, only to be abruptly halted.

“Wait—Asiris.”

"Oh, really? Help General Visch command the army."

Sure thing.

As soon as they departed, Caville couldn't help but blurt out, “So, any guesses on when they're planning to strike?”

Asiris confidently declared, "In the dead of night, when most are fast asleep, it's the perfect time for them to strike and conquer the city."

He found himself face to face with the two men once more, and this time the situation was far more pressing.

“Go inform General Visch to get ready for battle,” he directed.

The guards hurried to the right, on a mission to locate the general.

They hurriedly made their way through various doors until they located the general.

"Well, well, General Visch, it seems Asiris is calling for war."

In a swift move, the group left the party, with Asiris on a mission to find Jack, leading them outside.

Rushing to the dining area, he discovered Jack deeply engaged in discussion with some unfamiliar faces.

"Well, well, look who it is!" he called out, deftly grabbing his focus. "We require the services of an individual to escort us back to our humble abode!"

Jack wasted no time getting up from his seat and weaving through the crowd as they headed towards the limo. After some time, they finally made it to the car, and Jack hopped in and revved up the engine.

"Why the hurry?" "Caville asked," came the inquiry. Jack let out a derisive snort.

Well, Asiris spilled the beans, so it's time to suit up, folks. I'll see you on the battlefield.

With the command given, all eagerly anticipated the chance to exit the vehicle and make their way to the house.

The limo raced ahead, paying no mind to the traffic up ahead.

They arrived at the hill much faster than they had departed, and right away, the Heathers burst out of the car.

"Oh, hurry up, let's get moving!" Asiris quipped, and the others scattered.

"Time to stir up some trouble!" Xavier couldn't contain his enthusiasm as he shut the door.

With a sense of urgency, everyone quickly retreated to their chambers, donned their battle attire, secured their protective gear, and prepared their weapons.

Micah hurried to the mirror, perfecting his stances and swift movements.

Peter was quite the showman, executing rapid chops on the wall while kicking and side-stepping with great speed, much to the annoyance of the others due to the noise.

Before you could say "quidditch," the gang finished getting ready and swiftly made their way down the stairs.

“So, who's going to be our designated driver?” Vienne inquired.

“I will—just get in the car!” Asiris exclaimed loudly, causing the group to jump.

Next in line for concern was Caville, who strolled up to Asiris.

“It’s alright, we’ll triumph in this conflict,” she said, attempting to offer solace, although it appeared to have little effect. “Trust me.”

She bid him adieu after his unexpected eruption, choosing to leave the issue be.

After a moment, he glanced out the window, observing the Heathers in the car, prepared for the impending showdown.

Was he the only one worried?

His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, and he struggled to keep up with them.

But alas, it just didn't seem to do the trick. In a sudden burst of defeat, he yelled and stomped into the car.

The group swiftly deduced that he was under pressure, considering he was leading the army.

Upon pressing the pedal, he gravely spoke to the group, aiming to boost their morale.

Alright, listen up. No matter what goes down, always keep in mind—you all are true fighters. Even if we don't come out on top in this skirmish, you lot are still heroes. Sure thing?

With a subtle nod, they held back tears, yet their eyes betrayed the turmoil inside. Asiris attempted to restrain his own emotions.

Despite his achievements, his heart remained burdened. This battle was about to determine the fate of the entire war.