"What a pleasant surprise," the Flame Demon rumbled, his voice like the muffled thunder of a summer day. "What did I say to you before? No one can escape the blood war; someday it will find you. When that day indeed arrives, will your sword blade still be sharp?"
"Of course, Lord Babos," Sonam raised her head, gazing at the towering Barlow Flame Demon, "In fact, they are sharper than ever before."
"We will soon find out if that is true," the Flame Demon Babos raised his head, his burning eyes sweeping over the crowd behind the Serpent Demon. "Hmm… Is this your troop? A bunch of mortal mercenaries?"
"They are all skilled hands."
"It seems so…" the Flame Demon nodded, "Taran and Tu'a will arrive soon, and the army will depart immediately. I'll give you a free favor—let your men take the lead. No need to thank me."
"...…As you command, my lord."