Eiden looked at Zeth, meeting the vampire's glowing gaze without flinching. Zeth stood up, using his long red blade like a walking stick as he paced toward the Sages.
"You know, ever since our last fight, you wounded me badly," Zeth said, stopping directly in front of Eiden. "I haven't been able to use the abilities I once relied on. Not until I am healed, and every healer I have requested has failed me. But you... you can."
"And why would I do that?" Eiden asked.
Zeth began to pace again, his steps echoing. "The Angel King has been causing chaos, forcing people to flee their territories. He will come for me eventually, but I plan to kill him first. I am strong enough to face him, but without my full potential, I am at a disadvantage."
"I will help you," Eiden said, his voice cold. "But only if you keep your mouth shut for all of eternity."
"Perfect."
Zeth returned to his living throne and sat. Eiden approached the pulsing structure and raised his palm toward the vampire lord. A soft green glow emitted from his hand, washing over Zeth for a brief moment before fading. Eiden stepped back as Zeth rose, testing his balance and flexing his fingers with a satisfied hum.
"I must thank you," Zeth said. "If you are hungry, we have human staff in the lower levels. They roam freely and should be preparing food at this hour. You are free to go." He gestured toward Dinnes. "He can lead you."
The Sages prepared to leave, but Zeth spoke again. "One thing, Eiden. Did you come here to kill the Angel King?"
"Yes. Ravnok told us what he did. We're here to stop him from starting a war."
Zeth's expression darkened. "I'm afraid you are too late. He has already started a war with Yajin. My scouts confirmed it days ago. The human soldiers Yajin used have all fallen; he has been fighting alone against the Angel King and his host."
Eiden narrowed his eyes. "If that's the case, why did you need me to heal you? It's obvious who is going to win soon."
Zeth paused mid-stride and looked directly at him. "I didn't want to sound weak admitting it," he said, running a hand through his dark hair, "but I fear Yajin may come for me next. You know how he is—passing judgment on all 'bad' people. I am certain I am next once he is finished with the Angel King."
Eiden exhaled softly. "I see. Well, now that I've helped you, we must get back on the road."
Selyndra stepped up beside him, her tone firm. "We need to find the Angel King."
"Very well," Zeth nodded. "I am done talking. Be careful."
The Great Sages turned to leave, their boots echoing against the stone, but Zeth called out one last time. "Eiden."
The group stopped and turned back. Vaelus rolled his eyes, irritation flickering across his face. "C'mon, dude. We have to get moving."
Zeth lifted a hand. "I understand. But Eiden—if you fight Yajin, make sure to watch the skies."
Eiden's eyes narrowed. "I understand."
Zeth turned to his attendant. "Dinnes, lend them some bags of dried meats for the road. Sages, please wait outside the castle for him."
"Yeah, whatever," Vaelus muttered, walking out of the chamber. His voice dropped to a low grumble as they entered the hall. "Fucker is always talking when we're supposed to be handling someone."
"Now, now, Vaelus. Calm down," Morvath said, placing a steady hand on the younger man's shoulder. They continued down the hall, the heavy doors closing softly behind them as the darkness of the castle swallowed them once more.