Chapter 79: The City of Eternal Night – A Realm Unlike Any Other
While war and chaos raged across the world, the City of Eternal Night stood as a beacon of something entirely different—progress, power, and an unshakable sense of purpose.
Unlike the war-torn lands beyond its borders, this magnificent city thrived. Grand buildings lined the streets, illuminated by ethereal lanterns casting an otherworldly glow. The air vibrated with life—music, laughter, and the occasional clash of training warriors.
In this city, Arion's Shadow Army continued to evolve, refining their strength, pushing past limits that once bound them. Diablo, Testarossa, Carrera, and Ultima had also been growing exponentially in power. Every battle, every mission, every moment they spent training only honed their already terrifying abilities.
And then there was Veldora. No longer just the reckless storm dragon, he had matured—still wild at heart but with a sharper mind, a deeper understanding of the world, and a thirst for battle that only grew stronger.
But when they weren't training or executing missions, life in the City of Eternal Night was nothing short of spectacular.
The city's main plaza was alive tonight. Restaurants were packed, laughter and clinking glasses filling the air. Street performers played music, and beautifully dressed citizens danced beneath the night sky.
At the heart of it all, in a private rooftop terrace overlooking the city, Arion sat surrounded by his closest subordinates—Diablo, Testarossa, Carrera, Ultima, and Veldora.
The long table before them was filled with an extravagant feast—succulent meats, rare wines, exotic desserts that shimmered under the moonlight.
Arion, tall, breathtakingly handsome, with piercing white hair and an aura that commanded attention without even trying, leaned back in his chair, swirling a drink in his hand. His smile—effortless, knowing, powerful—was enough to make hearts race.
Carrera smirked, resting her chin in her palm. "You know, Arion… this city is something else. It's nothing like the outside world."
Ultima, seated beside her, nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! Out there, people are fighting and dying like idiots. But here? We're thriving. You really built something amazing."
Arion chuckled, his voice smooth, deep, and mesmerizing. "Well, of course. Unlike the rest of the world, I actually know what I'm doing." He glanced at Diablo, who was sipping his wine calmly. "Wouldn't you agree, Diablo?"
Diablo gave a knowing smirk, his golden eyes gleaming. "Indeed. Your vision, my lord, is unparalleled. Even the Demon Lords could never hope to replicate what you've created here."
Testarossa, usually composed, found herself stealing glances at Arion. She wasn't sure when it started, but something about him—the way he carried himself, the sheer majesty in his presence—made her heart race in a way she didn't quite understand.
Carrera and Ultima, however, had already realized their own feelings. They hid it well, but the way they leaned in closer when he spoke, how their eyes lingered on him, the way they smiled just a little too much in his presence— it was obvious.
But Arion, ever the enigma, seemed unbothered. Or maybe he knew… and just enjoyed watching them squirm.
As the night went on, the group moved inside to a lavish lounge where a game of high-stakes cards was about to begin.
Arion shuffled the deck with perfect, fluid movements. Veldora grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Hah! I hope you're ready, because tonight's the night I finally beat you, Arion!"
Ultima giggled. "You say that every time, and every time, you lose."
Carrera smirked, twirling a dagger in her fingers. "Why do we even play? We all know Arion is going to win."
Arion smirked as he dealt the cards with flawless precision. "Oh? And what if I lose tonight?"
Testarossa leaned in, a rare, playful glint in her crimson eyes. "Then we each get to ask you for one favor. No matter what it is."
Silence.
A wicked smirk tugged at the corner of Arion's lips. "Interesting… Alright, I accept."
Diablo chuckled darkly. "This should be entertaining."
And so the game began. Cards were played, tension built, drinks were poured, and laughter echoed through the lounge.
One by one, players fell. Veldora folded first, then Ultima, then Carrera.
In the final round, only Testarossa and Arion remained.
Testarossa narrowed her eyes. "Show your hand, Arion."
Arion smirked, his aura practically glowing as he placed his cards down with effortless confidence.
A Royal Flush.
Testarossa sighed, leaning back. "Tch… I should've known."
Arion chuckled, collecting his winnings. "Maybe next time."
Ultima pouted. "Ugh, now we don't get to make you do whatever we want."
Carrera crossed her arms. "I already had plans for my wish…"
Arion raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what, exactly, were you going to ask for?"
Carrera smirked but said nothing, just holding his gaze for a little too long.
Arion just laughed. "Better luck next time, ladies."
And so the night continued, filled with games, laughter, and the unshakable feeling that, no matter what happened in the world outside, here in the City of Eternal Night, they were untouchable.