The Summoning
After the second battle, Aria stood alone in a secluded clearing deep within Eryndor's forest. The air was thick with the scent of blood and magic, a fitting atmosphere for what she was about to attempt. She had discovered a new skill during the heat of battle—**Demon Summoning**. It was a risky move, but she knew that Eryndor needed every advantage it could get.
Closing her eyes, Aria focused her magicules, channeling them into a complex ritual circle she had drawn on the ground. The circle glowed with a dark, ominous light as she began the incantation.
"By the power of blood and shadow, I call upon the abyss. Heed my summons, and serve me in this world."
The ground trembled, and the air grew cold as four figures emerged from the circle. The first was a towering, imposing figure—a greater demon with crimson skin, glowing eyes, and massive wings. The other three were smaller but no less intimidating, each radiating a unique aura of power.
---
The greater demon stepped forward, his deep voice resonating with authority. "You have summoned us, mortal. Speak your will."
Aria met his gaze, her own eyes glowing with determination. "I am Aria, Queen of Eryndor. I summoned you to serve as my protector and to aid my kingdom in its time of need. In return, I will grant you a name and a place in this world."
The greater demon tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "A name, you say? Very well. I accept your terms."
Aria focused her magicules, channeling them into the greater demon as she spoke. "From this day forward, you shall be known as **Kaeltharion**, the Crimson Warden. Serve me faithfully, and you shall have power beyond your wildest dreams."
A notification appeared in Aria's mind: **[Kaeltharion has been named. Unique Skill: Infernal Dominion Acquired.]**
Kaeltharion's form shimmered as the name took hold, his power growing exponentially. *Infernal Dominion* allowed him to command flames and shadows, creating devastating attacks and impenetrable defenses. He knelt before Aria, his voice filled with respect. "I am yours to command, my queen."
---
Aria turned her attention to the three lesser demons. Each had a distinct appearance and aura, and she knew they would be valuable assets to Eryndor.
1. **The First Demon**: A lithe, shadowy figure with glowing green eyes and claws like daggers.
- **Name Bestowed**: **Vesryn**, the Shadow Stalker.
- **Skill Acquired**: *Phantom Veil* (allows him to become invisible and move through shadows undetected).
- **Role**: Scout and assassin.
2. **The Second Demon**: A hulking, armored figure with molten cracks running through his stone-like skin.
- **Name Bestowed**: **Drogath**, the Stoneheart.
- **Skill Acquired**: *Earthshaker* (allows him to create seismic waves and manipulate the ground).
- **Role**: Frontline warrior and siege breaker.
3. **The Third Demon**: A slender, ethereal figure with wings of flame and a voice like a haunting melody.
- **Name Bestowed**: **Lirael**, the Ember Song.
- **Skill Acquired**: *Siren's Wail* (allows her to manipulate emotions and unleash sonic attacks).
- **Role**: Support and battlefield control.
Aria named each demon in turn, their forms shimmering as the names took hold. They knelt before her, their loyalty now bound to her will.
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Kaeltharion stepped forward, his crimson eyes glowing with intensity. "My queen, I swear to protect you with my life. No harm shall come to you while I draw breath."
Aria nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Thank you, Kaeltharion. Your loyalty will not go unrewarded."
With Kaeltharion as her bodyguard and the lesser demons serving as elite soldiers, Aria felt a renewed sense of confidence. Eryndor's forces were stronger than ever, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
---
As Aria returned to the village with her new allies, the people of Eryndor watched in awe. The demons' presence was intimidating, but their loyalty to Aria was clear. The council gathered to meet the newcomers, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
"These are our new allies," Aria said, her voice firm. "They will fight alongside us and help protect our kingdom. Treat them with respect, and they will do the same for you."
The council members nodded, their trust in Aria unwavering. Tharn, ever the pragmatist, stepped forward. "They'll be a valuable addition to our forces. But we'll need to integrate them into our strategies."
Lyria added, "Vesryn's skills will be perfect for scouting and sabotage. Drogath can lead the charge in battle, and Lirael's abilities will give us an edge in controlling the battlefield."
Aria smiled, proud of her council's adaptability. "Exactly. Together, we'll show Bashda and the world that Eryndor is a force to be reckoned with."
---
As the sun set over Eryndor, casting its golden light on the bustling kingdom, Aria stood atop the walls, her gaze fixed on the horizon. The war with Bashda was far from over, but she knew they were ready. With her council, her people, and her new demon allies, she was prepared to face whatever came next.