The Monster King's Legacy

Soon enough, the towering gates of the Monster Kingdom city loomed in the distance, a testament to the rapid progress of the once-overlooked monster kingdom. The delegates approached on horseback, their presence exuding an air of confidence and thinly veiled hostility… well, only one of the god-blessed was present.

Leading the group was Serena. Her silver armor shimmered in the sunlight, each step of her steed punctuated by a commanding aura that could not be ignored, certain to draw much attention. Flanking her were a few high-ranking individuals, all human.

As the procession approached, the guards guarding the gates quickly sent word to Lance, while they stood firm at their posts. With the air of the visitors, there was no mistaking it, they were not there with good intentions at all.

After stating their reason for visit, they were let in, revealing the capital's bustling streets. The delegates took note of the city's remarkable infrastructure, well-maintained roads, bustling marketplaces, and citizens from a variety of races working together in harmony.

"Not what I expected from a kingdom of monsters," the Serena muttered under her breath as she observed.

As the group moved through the streets, their confidence seemed to waver ever so slightly. The soldiers had heard of the monster city from those who had visited before, but this was the first time these bunch had seen it for themselves.

Then again, anyone who had battled against monsters before, would know that there was no such thing as a civilian monster. Walking into such a city truly felt like walking into a den of predators at every corner pretending to not notice.

Inside the main hall, Lance waited, eager to meet these trouble makers after learning of their arrival. He was dressed in his red, white, and gold royal attire, exuding a commanding presence.

Standing beside him was Aelyndra, Rynne, Mira, Zarra, Kaeli, and Lia.

"Let them in," Lance commanded, his voice even.

The grand doors swung open, and the delegates entered the hall, their every step echoing through the vast space. Serena led the way, her confident stride never faltering as her eyes locked onto Lance.

'So that's him?' She thought to herself. She hadn't expected him to be such a tall fellow of such build. It was surprising at first glance. Even though he was currently seated on a magnificent throne, his domineering self could not be hidden just like that.

Serena stopped a few paces from the throne, her entourage fanning out behind her. "King Lance," she said, her tone formal but edged with challenge. "We bring greetings from the human kingdoms, and the dwarven lords. Your achievements have not gone unnoticed."

Lance rose from his throne, his tall frame and golden eyes giving him an almost otherworldly presence. He descended the steps slowly, each movement deliberate. "I trust your journey was without incident."

Serena's lips curved into a faint smile. "Indeed. Your roads are well-maintained. Impressive... for a kingdom of this nature."

The subtle insult hung in the air, but Lance's expression didn't waver. "I appreciate the compliment, though I suspect you didn't travel this far just to admire our infrastructure."

'Straight to the point, huh? Good, I like it that way too.' She thought to herself.

"Your kingdom's rapid growth has raised... concerns. Your acceptance of demons and other undesirables threatens the balance of power and clouds your true intentions."

Aelyndra's eyes narrowed, but she remained silent, her presence alone serving as a warning.

Lance's gaze swept over the group. "Balance of power," he repeated, his tone contemplative. "What an interesting phrase. Tell me, is this about balance or fear?"

The tension in the room thickened as the delegates exchanged glances. Serena stepped forward again, her voice calm but firm. "King Lance, we are not here to trade barbs. We are here to deliver a message. We've been watching. Your actions, while admirable, threaten to destabilize the region."

Lance folded his arms, his gaze unwavering. "Destabilize? Or challenge the status quo?"

"Call it whatever you like, but kingdoms like yours don't rise without making enemies. If you're wise, you'll heed our advice." She said.

"And that advice is...?" Lance prompted, his tone almost bored.

Serena's eyes hardened. "Rein in your ambitions, King Lance. Cease your expansion and submit to oversight from the larger nations. This is not a demand… it's an opportunity for you to ensure peace and prosperity for your people."

Lance let the silence hang for a moment before speaking. "You've delivered your message, and I appreciate your candor. But let me be equally clear: We do not answer to those who seek to stifle us out of fear or jealousy."

The knights behind Serena stiffened, the subtle hostility in the room growing more pronounced.

Serena's voice dropped slightly. "We're here to make sure you understand something. Either you submit to the authority of the major races and abide by the laws established long before your time, or..." Her voice trailed off, the threat hanging in the air like a blade poised to strike.

Lance stepped closer, his golden eyes glowing faintly. "If that's your decision, then so be it."

The room fell into an uneasy silence, the weight of Lance's words lingering.

"Then, you leave us no choice."

Before anyone could react, Serena raised her hand, and a brilliant light engulfed the room. The air crackled with energy as intricate runes swirled around her, forming a massive magical array beneath their feet, with Lance within it.

"What are you doing?" Aelyndra's voice cut through the chaos, her golden eyes flaring as she lunged forward, but the magic activated before she could intervene.

In an instant, Lance and Serena disappeared from the hall. The world spun violently, and when Lance's vision cleared, he found himself standing below a towering mountain range. The air was thin and cold, the sky a muted gray. The massive peaks loomed above them, casting long shadows across the rocky terrain as he could see several other mountain peaks.