The Thin Line Between War and Peace

Xyros crossed his arms, his red eyes flickering between Azrael and Evelyne with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism.

"You want to talk?" His voice was rough, filled with barely restrained hostility. "Then convince me why we shouldn't tear down this fragile alliance and reclaim our honor through war."

Azrael remained impassive, but Evelyne could feel the tension radiating from him like a storm waiting to break.

She took a step forward, ignoring the way the rebel warriors tensed at her movement. "Because war won't give you the future you want," she said firmly.

Xyros let out a harsh laugh. "And what future do you think we want, human?"

"A future where your people don't have to live in constant bloodshed. Where your children don't grow up only knowing war." Evelyne met his glare without flinching. "You think war is the only path to strength, but what has it actually given you? A kingdom divided? Demons killing demons?" She gestured at the warriors behind him. "How many of your people have died fighting against your own kind instead of humans?"

Xyros's jaw tightened. He didn't answer, but the flicker of hesitation in his eyes told her she had struck a nerve.

Azrael finally spoke, his voice calm but edged with steel. "You are not the only ones who have suffered losses, Xyros. I have lost warriors—brothers—to this war. But you mistake vengeance for justice." His golden eyes burned. "And you should know by now that I do not tolerate betrayal."

The warning in his voice was unmistakable.

Xyros tensed, his fingers twitching at his sides. For a moment, Evelyne thought he might attack.

Then, slowly, he exhaled. "You've changed, Azrael," he muttered. "Once, you would have slaughtered us without a second thought."

Azrael's expression remained unreadable. "Perhaps I've learned the value of choosing my battles."

Xyros was silent for a long moment before he turned to his men. A silent exchange passed between them. Some of them looked uncertain. Others—resentful.

Finally, Xyros met Azrael's gaze once more. "This isn't over," he warned. "But… for now, we will listen."

Evelyne released a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

This wasn't a victory. Not yet.

But it was a start.