Eiden looked at Zeth, meeting his gaze without flinching.
Zeth stood up, walking toward him, using his blade like a walking stick.
"Ya know, ever since our last fight, you wounded me badly. I haven't been able to use the abilities I once relied on until I'm healed. Every healer I've requested has failed me." He stopped in front of Eiden. "But you can."
"And why would I do that?" Eiden said.
Zeth began pacing slowly around the room.
"The Angel King has been causing chaos. He's forcing people to flee their territory. He'll come for me eventually, but I plan to kill him first. I know I'm strong enough to face him, but without access to my full potential, I'm at a disadvantage."
"I will help you," Eiden said, "but only if you keep your mouth shut for all of eternity."
"Perfect," Zeth replied, returning to his throne and sitting down.
Eiden approached and raised a hand toward him. A soft green glow emitted from his palm, washing over Zeth for a brief moment before fading. Eiden lowered his hand and stepped back.
Zeth rose from his throne, testing his balance, flexing his fingers.
"Hm. I must thank you," he said. "If you're hungry, we have human staff in the lower levels of the castle. They're allowed to roam freely and are likely preparing food at this hour. You're free to go."
Zeth then gestured toward Dinnes, who still stood with his hands behind his back.
"He can lead you to the lower halls."
But before they could leave, Zeth spoke again.
"One thing I want to ask, Eiden. Did you all come here to kill the Angel King?"
"Yes. Ravnok told us what the Angel King did. We're here to stop him from causing another possible war," Eiden responded.
"I see…" Zeth said, his expression darkening. "Well, I'm afraid you're too late for that. He's already started a war with Yajin. A few days ago, my scouts confirmed that the human soldiers Yajin used have all fallen. He's been fighting alone against the Angel King and his angels."
Eiden narrowed his eyes slightly. "If that's the case, why did you need me to heal you? It's obvious who's going to win soon."
Zeth paused mid‑stride, then looked directly at him.
"I didn't want to sound weak admitting it," he said, pacing slowly across the room, "but I fear that Yajin may come for me."
He ran a hand through his dark hair, expression tightening.
"Because you know how he is. He's been passing judgment on all the bad people, and I'm certain he'll come for me once he's finished with the Angel King."
Eiden exhaled softly. "I see… Well, now that I've helped you—"
"We must get back on the road to find the Angel King," Selyndra said, stepping up beside Eiden, her tone firm and decisive.
Zeth nodded once. "Very well. I'm done with my talking. You all be careful."
The Great Sages turned to leave, boots echoing lightly across the stone floor—until Zeth spoke again.
"Eiden."
They stopped and turned back toward him.
Vaelus rolled his eyes, irritation flickering across his face. "C'mon dude, we've got to get moving on the road."
Zeth lifted a hand in acknowledgment. "Yes, I understand. But Eiden—if you fight Yajin, make sure to watch the skies."
Eiden's eyes narrowed. "Yes. I understand."
Zeth shifted his attention to his attendant. "And Dinnes, please lend them some bags of dried meats for the road."
Dinnes bowed quickly and hurried out of the room.
"And, Sages," Zeth added, "please wait outside the castle for him to bring you the bags—"
"Yeah, whatever," Vaelus muttered as he walked out, his voice dropping to a low grumble. "Fucker always talking when we're supposed to be handling someone."
"Now, now, Vaelus. Calm down," Morvath said, placing a steady hand on his shoulder as they continued down the hall.
The other Sages followed behind them, the heavy doors closing softly as they exited Zeth's chamber.