Chapter 9: Prince Richie Von Rich’s Plan
...Oliver's breath came in short, controlled bursts as he crouched within the vents, his heart hammering against his ribcage.
The demon's hulking gasly form loomed outside, shifting as it sniffed the air. Oliver remained perfectly still, his muscles tense, willing himself to be part of the shadows. Even his heart beat seem to seize in his chest.
Fortunately, the Aether from the alchemist's seal filled the chamber, masking his presence, but he knew it wouldn't last forever.
The demon's elongated fingers scraped against the stone walls as it turned its head sharply. It had been given orders not to spread its aether too far, but there was an unmistakable unease in its posture. Just as it took a step closer to the vents, Richie Von Rich's voice cut through the silence.
"Is there a problem?" His tone was casual, but there was a sharpness beneath it.
The demon hesitated before responding. "Merely ensuring there are no disturbances."
Richie chuckled, a slow, measured sound. "You doubt the power of 'MY' seal?" He stepped forward, his hands clasped behind his back as he examined the glowing runes on the floor. "This seal is the key to everything. I need its power to secure my passage into the Abyss."
The demon's eyes narrowed. "With the thinning aether in the atmosphere, this seal does not look like it possess the power to function properly. It cannot gather enough Aether on its own."
"Precisely," Richie said, his voice rich with satisfaction. "But tonight, during the Empire's attack, noble and royal blood—all awaken will stain the ground. And when that happens, the seal will feast upon the spilled bloodlines," he pointed to the spreading runes on the ground that Oliver only just noticed was all over the room.
"...gathering the power it requires."
The demon shifted. "Are you certain the seal can withstand such an offering? Even the alchemist who created it ensured that sacrifices were... measured."