Choosing A Side Part 8

The silence in the throne room thickened as our faces were revealed. Gasps. Whispers. The tension was a noose tightening with every breath. I saw hands twitch toward hilts. Even Princess Kathleen stiffened in her seat. Everyone's gaze was focused on us, especially on Zaine. Of course, they were suspicious. Zaine had once ruled the demons. Now, here she was—standing in the heart of the human capital beside a man they'd branded a criminal.

Right now, it doesn't appear that this is a trap, but I can definitely sense the presence of powerful individuals within the castle, particularly in this room. I expected to see the S-Rank Zhoron here, but I didn't anticipate that the three leaders of the three great guilds would also be present. I'm especially surprised to see the Guild Master of the Dark Dragons. If things become complicated, I feel particularly concerned about him. The archmage Aelbrecht the Taciturn is believed to have lived for hundreds of years, even before the founding of this city, and is widely regarded as the strongest S-Rank of all.

Queen Zara rose.

"Welcome, Darx. Demon Queen Zaine," She said, her voice measured, clear, and echoing through the stone hall, "You've come a long way."

Zaine's eyes met the Queen, and the room seemed to hold its breath. Her voice was calm, assured, "And it appears you have been waiting."

I was a bit surprised. Zaine stood with a poise that matched the Queen's own, her gaze unwavering.

For a moment, it felt as if Zaine and Queen Zara were the only two in the room, locked in a silent exchange.

I tried to keep my attention forward, but my eyes drifted helplessly to my mother. Something in the way she stood off to the side made it seem as though she wanted to approach. To say something.

All of a sudden, my mother took a step forward, her voice breaking just slightly, "Darx… son.. I—"

"Later," Queen Zara cut in, calm but sharp, "There will be time for you two to speak privately. But not now."

She hesitated, but her gaze didn't leave mine, even as she took a **** step back.

That's when Arthur stepped forward.

"So this is how it ends," He said, staring right through me. "You walk into the capital like nothing ever happened. Like you didn't attack our guild. Like you didn't kill her. Agnes"

Her name hung in the air like the ghost she was.

"I won't ask you to forgive me. But I did what I had to." I said, keeping my voice low.

Arthur's jaw clenched. For a second, I thought he might draw his blade. Zaine tensed beside me, and I felt her energy stir in a quiet warning.

Then Zhoron gave two steps forward, "That's enough," He said coolly, "Darx has been acquitted. The instigator of it all—Kase—is dead. The matter is closed."

Arthur scoffed, "Closed? Tell that to Agnes' grave."

Before I could answer, Queen Zara lifted her hand again, "This meeting is not to relitigate the past. It's to determine the future. All of you were summoned here because what comes next may decide the fate of our world. Save your grievances for later."

She sat back down, eyes sweeping across the room like a general assessing a battlefield. I glanced sideways at Zaine. She hated being judged without memory, but she stood tall. The silence returned, not as hostile as before but laced with something heavier.

Expectation.

Before anyone else could speak, a familiar voice broke the silence.

"Well, well. Look who crawled back from the grave."

I turned my head slightly as Guild Master Stella stepped forward, arms crossed, the corners of her lips tugging into that smug, unreadable smirk she always wore. Even now, with all eyes fixed on us, she looked like she owned the room.

"It's been a while, Darx," She said, "You look even stronger now. Must be all that camping in monster-infested land."

My jaw clenched, but I gave her a nod, "Stella."

Her sharp gaze flicked upward, "And Sunshine. Still alive, huh? Was half-sure you'd finally exploded from your own ego by now. You used to attack my crows every chance you got. From what I've seen, you have a really bizarre rivalry with any bird."

From my shoulder, Sunshine snorted.

"Oh, piss off," Sunshine said, stretching her wings lazily, "Besides, I don't die easy. I'm like mold in a brothel—you just learn to live with me."

A few stifled laughs rippled across the room—Ryul, mostly—and Stella.

Stella looked at me with an unreadable expression, "I've been keeping an eye on you," She said, "Ever since you left. I know everything you've done."

Something cold settled into my gut. I glanced toward the window—toward the crows. They'd been with us since the outskirts. Watching. Waiting.

"I knew it was you," I replied, "Still, I didn't think you'd be spying on me for this long."

Stella raised an eyebrow, "Not spying. Monitoring. By order of the Queen herself.

I turned toward Queen Zara, who nodded slightly but said nothing. My mind reeled for a moment.

"I even had to go into demonic territory myself, so I wouldn't lose sight of you." Stella continued.

Stella—inside demon territory? That shouldn't even be possible.

"How?" I asked, narrowing my eyes, "You're a human. You'd be killed on sight over there."

Stella chuckled softly and folded her arms, "Don't insult me, Darx. I'm a Guild Master for a reason. Getting in was the easy part."

She leaned back on her heels, tilting her head.

"Besides, I had help."

That made me blink, "From whom?"

"There are allies even in demonic territory," Stella said, watching my reaction, "Half-human/demons. Even full-blooded demons. Some of them work for us—spies, informants, double agents. Not all demons support the current regime. Some want peace. Others want power. Either way, they talk. And I listen."

I had no response to that. The thought of demons willingly aiding humans hadn't crossed my mind. Zaine glanced at me from the side, equally surprised.

I exhaled slowly, "Then… why not stop me? After Agnes—after everything I did. You were following me. You had chances."

It was Queen Zara who answered this time, "By now, you should have a good understanding of why things have unfolded the way they have. I know you were skeptical about the strange occurrences around you, but it's clear that you can no longer dismiss them as mere coincidences," After a brief pause, she continued, "Consider the color of your eyes, your unusual awakening, your unique abilities, and the fact that you, a human can wield demonic energy. All of these traits have attracted the attention of many people, us, demons, and the church, which has caused you significant trouble. However, we've taken care of that."

I looked up, narrowing my eyes.

"When you left the capital, we knew you carried potential. Still, I admit it was too high a risk to let you go," The Queen continued, "We believed it necessary for you to discover who you truly were. And we were right."

I said nothing.

"The duel with Duke Vanth," The Queen added, resting her hand on the arm of her throne, "Confirmed it. Very few mortals—S-Rank or otherwise—could have survived such an encounter. And yet you not only survived… You won," She leaned forward, her eyes sharp. Calculating, "And then, to bring the former Demon Queen back alive—"

Zaine remained silent at my side, her gaze fixed straight ahead.

"—that opened a thousand new doors."

I could feel my jaw clenching. Hard.

"So I was just a pawn in your plan," I said, my voice flat.

"You made your own decisions. We just didn't interfere." Stella replied.

Queen Zara didn't blink, "We took a risk. But the results speak for themselves. The realm needed someone who could do what you did. You made contact with the enemy in ways none of our agents ever could."

The words made my stomach twist.

Sunshine shifted on my shoulder, silent for once. Even Ryul's usual relaxed posture had straightened. Amelia looked away. And Zaine… she was tense—more than I'd seen her in days.

Then, I spoke.

"Since you know so much," I said slowly, "Then tell me this."

The Queen tilted her head.

"When I fought Vanth, he said a name. Azriel."

I paused, letting the name hang.

"My father."

My mother gasped, looking shocked, her hand rising to her chest. Her eyes locked on mine, wide with disbelief, "What?"

I kept going.

"Why would a high-ranking demon know my father's name?" I asked.

The Queen didn't answer. Neither did anyone else, but something in the Queen's gaze gave me the feeling that she knew something.

My eyes shifted to the one man who might.

"Guild Master, Aelbrecht," I spoke, "You were my father's Guild Master. You knew him. Do you know something?"

The room turned to Aelbrecht, the Taciturn—still, always, unreadable beneath. His skull-like figure, covered by his attire, was as unique as ever. He turned his head slowly in my direction, allowing me to see the greenish light in his eye sockets.

He finally stirred.

"I know the reason," Aelbrecht replied with a distorted voice, "But I won't speak of it. Not yet."

I blinked, "What?"

"What's all this?" My mother asked, looking as shocked and confused as I was. "Is there something I don't know about my late husband?"

"You'll learn the truth. But not now. Not until the Demon Queen Zaine regains her memory."

Even Zaine flinched at that.

My mother stepped forward, her voice sharp with disbelief, "I don't understand. What does this have to do with Azriel?"

But Aelbrecht didn't flinch, "Azriel gave us a chance."

"A chance?" I asked.

"Once Zaine regains her memory, I'll tell you what I know. Until then, I won't say any more." Aelbrecht said before returning his gaze to the front, making it clear that he would not say anything else.

The silence that followed was deafening. I stared at him with a lot of questions in my mind.

"Is there truly a way to regain my memory?" Zaine's voice cut through the silence, direct and unwavering.

Queen Zara's eyes met hers, "There is. Although it will require some preparation."

Zaine absorbed the answer without a flicker of doubt.

"Why?" I asked, my voice hard, "Why help her?"

The Queen replied clearly and immediately: "Because Zaine still has many loyal demons who will fight for her. With their support, we can topple the current regime."

Zhoron nodded, his eyes fixed on us, "The union of races is already fighting the demons in the south. If Zaine and her followers launch an **** from within demonic territory, it may be possible to defeat the current Demon King and restore her to the throne."

Zaine's eyes narrowed, thoughtful.

"You want her back in power?" I asked, almost disbelieving.

Zaine's voice was sharp and deliberate, her gaze never leaving Queen Zara's, "Do you really think that once I regain my memory, I will assist the humans in their war?"

Queen Zara didn't miss a beat, "Yes. I do," Her answer was firm, unyielding, "Your history speaks for itself, Demon Queen Zaine. You have never sought conflict with humans. Under your rule, there were hundreds of years of peace."

Zaine's expression hardened, but I could sense a flicker of something else—maybe doubt.

"And me?" I asked, cutting through the tension, "What do you expect from me?"

The Queen's gaze settled on me, calculating but unreadable, "You will learn that once Zaine regains her memory."

Frustration twisted in my gut. I wasn't getting any answers.

Zaine remained poised beside me, absorbing everything in her quiet, penetrating way.

"You all must be tired," Queen Zara said, her words a dismissal, "Rest in the castle until preparations are complete."

"How long?" I asked.

Her advisor spoke this time, "Three days."

Three days. I glanced at Zaine, who gave a slight nod. She was willing to wait to see this through. I looked back at the Queen, her authority as unshakeable as ever.

The meeting went on for a while longer. So far, it doesn't appear that there was any secret plan to capture us. However, we only agreed to stay in the castle for the next three days on the condition that Sunshine, Zaine, and I would all be in the same room. The group I arrived with, and I left the throne room shortly after, guided by two soldiers to our room. Shortly after, my mother also came out.

"S-Son...."

There was an awkward pause. She didn't say anything right away; she just stood there, maybe hoping I'd take the first step. I didn't.

Then, Amelia spoke up.

"I think... you two need a moment."

She turned to Zaine, Ryul, and Sunshine, "Come on, let's give them some space."

Sunshine grumbled something under her breath about "family drama" but jumped onto Ryul's shoulder without protest. Zaine hesitated—her eyes lingered on mine—but after a subtle nod from me, she followed the others out. And then, we were alone. My mother and I.

Just the two of us. After all this time.

She offered a small smile, her hands fidgeting with the edge of her sleeve, "You've grown so much, Darx. Stronger than I ever imagined."

I crossed my arms, saying nothing.

She tried again, "How... how have you been?"

It took effort to **** even a simple answer from my throat, "Alive."

She blinked, the smile faltering just a little.

"I know this is... hard," My mother said, "But I—I wanted to see you for so long. Even when I was... I-I have to explain to you-"

"I know everything," I cut in, sharper than I meant to, "Amelia told me. About Kase. About what he did to you. About his skill and what happened after. All of it."

Her breath caught.

I continued, voice low, "So you don't have to explain."

There was a long silence. She lowered her gaze to the stone floor. "Still... I need to say it."

I didn't stop her, but didn't look at her either.

"I missed you," She whispered. Her voice cracked, "I missed you so much, son—every day. I—I couldn't stop any of it. And I'll regret that for the rest of my life."

She wiped a single tear falling from her eye. I stood there, arms still crossed, not moving. My heart should've cracked hearing her say that. But it didn't. Or maybe it did—and I just didn't want to feel it.

Finally, I asked, "And you? How have you been?" It came out colder than I intended.

My mom sniffled and looked up again, "I'm... healing. Bit by bit. It's not easy, but I'm trying." Then she hesitated, "I had a baby," She said nervously.

That actually made me look up, "Amelia told me you were pregnant."

She nodded, "Yes. A daughter. She's... she's beautiful."

I said nothing. My mind didn't know where to put that piece of information.

"I'd love for you to meet her sometime," My mom added quietly, "If you ever want to."

I let a long breath escape, "I'm tired," I said, "It's been a long journey."

She didn't try to stop me. Only nodded, "Of course. You should rest," She paused, then added, "I'm staying at the castle. So if you want to talk—or if you need anything—I'm here."

I gave a faint nod. That was all I could manage. Then I turned and walked out, leaving her behind in the quiet echo of the hall.

I didn't look back. Now, I know her betrayal wasn't really her fault, but it's still uncomfortable talking to her. I can't just forget everything that happened.

After walking a little further down the hallway, I reunited with the group. They were waiting for me, clustered near an ornate pillar. Amelia's eyes lit up when she saw me, but she looked concerned.

"Darx," Amelia said, her voice gentle, "How are you doing?"

I hesitated, the weight of the conversation with my mother still heavy on me. "I'm fine," I replied.

Amelia exchanged a look with Ryul—a quick, worried glance. I didn't give them a chance to press me further.

"Guess we can finally go on that vacation now, huh?" Ryul said, stretching his arms above his head, "No more babysitting. We'll see you around, Darx. And... I'm really glad you're here."

"Take care of yourselves," I said, a slight knot of **** forming as they turned to leave.

Ryul grinned back over his shoulder, waving, "Don't go and start another war without us, yeah?"

"Sure…"

"D-Darx," Amelia spoke timidly, "Let me know if you need anything. I will be around. And don't disappear without me again." With that, Amelia turned around without waiting for a reply and walked away with Ryul.

They disappeared down the long, winding hallway.

Sunshine flitted back to my shoulder, her small face full of curiosity," I will miss Ryul…"

"Let's just get to the room", I replied.

Zaine was quiet as she walked beside me, deep in thought. It was unlike her to be so withdrawn. The conversation in the throne room must have struck deeper than I realized. The soldiers led us down a series of broad corridors. Finally, we reached the door of the room. One of the guards opened the door, revealing a large, elegant chamber with high ceilings and a grand window overlooking the city below. The room was richly decorated.

"Fancy," Sunshine whistled, darting inside, "Not bad for a bunch of fugitives."

I watched the guards leave, the doors closing with a solid thud behind them. I sat on one of the large couches and exhaled, finally off my feet. Zaine walked to the window, looking out at the city spread beneath. Her profile was sharp, thoughtful, as she remained silent for a long moment.

Then she spoke, "What do you make of all this, Darx?"

I rubbed the back of my neck, considering, "I think the Queen was being honest," I said slowly, "But that doesn't mean we can trust her. Or anyone else here. Not completely."

Zaine turned, meeting my eyes, "You think they're planning something?"

"Could be. But for now, we need to go with the flow. Especially if it means recovering your memories."

Her gaze softened, almost imperceptibly, and she nodded, "I agree. We can't let our guard down, but if this is the way forward, then we take it."

Sunshine landed on the back of the couch, "You two are such downers. I say let's enjoy the royal treatment while we can. Beds like that don't come around often."

I looked at the huge bed—plush, inviting, and far more comfortable than the ground we'd grown used to. My body ached at the thought of sleep. I went to the bed, and soon after, Zainee joined me on the bed, her proximity bringing a warmth that cut through the uncertainty.

"Three days isn't long," She said, more to herself than to me, her voice trailing into the quiet room, "We'll know soon enough."

I leaned back, exhaustion pulling at me. Without realizing it, I fell asleep.

*KNOCK* *KNOCK* *KNOCK*

I jolted awake, the sound sharp in the quiet. It was dark—the only light coming from the moonlit window. How long had I slept? Beside me, Zaine stirred, her eyes snapping open, instantly alert. Sunshine flitted up, annoyed and half-dazed.

"Who's the fucker making noise?" Sunshine grumbled, shaking off sleep.

Another series of knocks—insistent but not aggressive. My mind clicked into gear. Someone was at the door. Zaine was already on her feet, her posture tense, ready for anything. I stood and moved cautiously toward the door.

"Be careful," Zaine warned, her voice low, focused.

I nodded, reaching for the handle. I opened it slowly, bracing for what might be on the other side.

Standing there, calm and unruffled, was the woman who had stood at Queen Zara's side during the meeting—the Queen's advisor.

"The Queen wishes to see you," She said, her voice polite and firm, "Both of you."

Zaine was at my side now, her eyes narrowing. I exchanged a glance with her, then asked, "Why now? It's the middle of the night."

The advisor's expression remained neutral, "Please follow me. It is important."

I hesitated, glancing back at Zaine and Sunshine. "We need a moment." The advisor seemed to understand and took a respectful step back, waiting patiently in the hall.

"Should we go?" I said to Zaine, keeping my voice steady.

Zaine's eyes were sharp, calculating, "It could be a trap."

"If it is," Sunshine chimed in, flitting to Zaine's shoulder, "We'll make 'em wish they never crawled out of their royal beds."

After thinking about it for a while, we made the decision.

"Let's go."

The advisor inclined her head slightly as we stepped into the hall, "This way, please."

Zaine's energy flickered beside me, a constant, reassuring presence. She was prepared, no matter what awaited us. We followed the advisor through the dim corridors, the silence punctuated only by the sound of our footsteps. I could feel Zaine's tension, Sunshine's quiet anticipation. We were ready for anything.

We reached the throne room doors. The advisor gestured for us to enter, "They are waiting for you."

Zaine and I exchanged a glance. I pushed the doors open. We walked in, leaving the advisor outside.

The room was lit with flickering torches, casting long shadows. Four figures stood at the far end: Queen Zara, Zhoron, Aelbrecht, and a blonde-haired woman I didn't recognize. Her eyes were a bright, piercing blue, and her expression was calm, almost serene.

Queen Zara spoke first, her gaze focused entirely on us, "Preparations are complete," She said, her voice clear and commanding, "It is time for Zaine to regain her memory."