NOVEL NEXT Chapter 9: Red Moon& Xing Fu
After parting ways with Edward, Leo slipped back into the castle like a shadow, moving through the empty halls with the practiced ease of a man accustomed to carrying burdens too great for others to see. The silence of the grand corridors seemed almost mocking, each step echoing with the weight of an empire.
Finally reaching his personal chambers, he pushed open the heavy doors and let them close behind him with a muted thud. His composure broke as he dropped onto the worn leather sofa, the exhaustion of countless battles—both on the field and within himself—finally catching up to him.
Staring into the dim void above, his thoughts surged, relentless and bitter. "How much longer must I endure this? How long until I can lay this crown aside, until I can find peace? And what will I even gain in the end? Forty-six years I've walked this path, and what do I truly have? I don't even know my parents' names properly. My mother... who was she? What was she like? Am I not even worthy of that knowledge?"
His chest tightened, anger rising to the surface. "All they ever told me was that they were killed by demons. Always demons, always war. But this war—this cursed, endless war—I hate it. I hate everything it's taken from me. Everything it's made me."
The fire in his thoughts burned bright, but his body, weary beyond measure, betrayed him. Slowly, the flames dulled, giving way to the abyss of exhaustion. His eyelids grew heavy, and without realizing it, Leo surrendered to the pull of sleep, his mind haunted by the ghosts of questions that had gone unanswered for far too long.
Even in rest, the weight of his legacy loomed—a king's burden, a son's grief, and a man's unyielding search for meaning.
At the same time, under the veil of night, a shadowy figure slipped into the Elven embassy, delivering a letter that would change everything. The envelope bore no name, no insignia, only its damning contents: a detailed account of forbidden experiments, vile research conducted in the shadows, and the revelation that Vaeloria, the cherished princess of the Elves, was alive—but held captive by none other than Emperor Leo himself.
The Elves had long believed Vaeloria to be martyred. The tale of her bravery in the final battle against Muka, a fearsome higher demon, was a legend etched into their hearts. She had been struck down in a battlefield ablaze with chaos, her name etched into the lists of the fallen, mourned and celebrated as a symbol of sacrifice and honor.
Now, the letter shattered that truth. If she was alive and imprisoned, the very foundation of their grief—their belief in her noble death—was a lie. Fury erupted within the embassy. Diplomats, priests, and generals gathered, their voices filled with outrage and disbelief.
"The Emperor of the Holy Empire dares to imprison our martyred princess?"
"Vaeloria, alive? Hidden from her own people? This is treachery of the highest order!"
The Elven King, already burdened by the weight of his people's survival, was devastated. To hear that his daughter, thought to have died a hero, was instead being used as a pawn in another kingdom's schemes—it was a blow that cut deeper than any blade.
When Leo awoke, it would be to a world turned against him. Unbeknownst to him, the fragile threads of diplomacy were unraveling, and a new storm was preparing to test the limits of his rule—and his soul.
The Red Moon Empire reigned supreme, ruling over nineteen vast territories with an iron grip. Renowned for its unmatched economy, its wealth flowed like rivers of gold, fueling the strongest military force the world had ever known. Their armies, a blend of discipline and might, inspired both fear and respect across the lands.
Among their closest allies was the Xing Fu Empire, the Fourth Great Empire, a bond forged in trust and strengthened over centuries. The Xing Fu Empire shared a border with the Elf Kingdom, their sworn enemy, and stood as a formidable rival to the Holy Empire.
Geographically, the two allied empires couldn't have been further apart—Red Moon to the west and Xing Fu to the east, divided by vast oceans and towering mountain ranges. Yet politically and strategically, they were as close as brothers. Together, they formed an unbreakable coalition, a union of strength that defied distance and dwarfed their adversaries.
The alliance between the Red Moon Empire and Xing Fu was a force that shaped the continent, dictating the balance of power and the tides of war. Despite their geographic separation, their bond ensured their enemies lived in constant fear, knowing that an attack on one meant retaliation from the other.
The capital city of the Red Moon Empire was an unparalleled marvel, vast enough to rival an entire kingdom. At its heart stood a castle so immense it resembled a mountain range, crafted from a mysterious black and red substance that seemed to pulse with life. The structure exuded an aura of power and dread, a fitting symbol of the empire's dominance.
At the castle's center loomed an enormous dome, its surface adorned with the empire's crimson flag. Encircling the dome were nineteen towering spires, each a testament to the empire's rule over its nineteen continents. The castle's doors were masterpieces, massive and ornate, fashioned from pure gold and encrusted with rare, iridescent gemstones. The ceilings were an intricate blend of white and blue substances that shimmered under the light, evoking the majesty of the heavens. Even the verandah floors gleamed with such polish that they mirrored the grandeur around them.
Yet, among the countless opulent chambers within the castle, one room stood out. Its entrance was a colossal 25-foot-tall door, etched with intricate designs that told stories of conquest and glory. Inside, a vast table dominated the room, forged from solid gold and encrusted with precious stones. Every inch of it was carved with the hands of master artisans.
At one end of the table sat Emperor Dons, the Demon King of the Red Moon Empire, his presence commanding and oppressive. At the other end, equally imposing, was Emperor Athan, the Vampire King of the Xing Fu Empire. The air was thick with tension, the atmosphere a blend of reverence and danger.
"So, King, what are you thinking?" Athan began with a soft chuckle, his fangs glinting under the dim light. "Making a peace treaty with the humans—was it just a trap, or are you truly so eager to step down from your throne?"
Dons leaned back in his gilded chair, his crimson eyes glinting like embers in the shadows. "Ha... hah... hah. Nothing so dramatic, Athan," he replied with a low, rumbling laugh. "I'm genuinely aiming for peace. And, as you well know, my reign won't last forever. The throne demands succession, yet there's still no sign of a new Demon King. My family has grown... all of them strong in their ways. Perhaps it's time to prepare for the next era."
Athan tilted his head, his expression caught between amusement and curiosity. "You're not as old as you make yourself out to be, Dons. I'm your junior by centuries, yet I don't see myself ready to leave my throne. And let's not forget King Brice—he was older than both of us combined. Though speaking of the late King Brice, it was on this very day, one year ago, that he fell."
Dons' gaze darkened, the weight of old memories surfacing in his mind.
"Yes," Athan continued, his tone shifting to one of admiration, "slain by that young human, Leo Gemini. I think we both agree—he's the strongest human we've ever seen. Don't you?"
Dons exhaled slowly and, in a soft tone, said, "Yet, for some reason, I know he's no match for me. And to think... I'm considered one of the weakest Demon Kings in history."
Hearing this, Athan burst out laughing, his voice echoing in the grand room. "The weakest? Compared to the Demon Kings before you, perhaps. They were akin to gods themselves. But, Dons, in this world? You're still the strongest being alive."
"Athan," Dons began, his tone calm but with a slight edge of irritation, "what is this new popular news you're speaking about concerning Leo Gemini and Vaeloria?"
Athan leaned back, a sly smile playing on his lips. "They say Leo Gemini has been keeping Vaeloria captive for the past five years and conducting dark experiments on her. The Elf King is demanding answers, and it's causing quite the stir across the kingdoms."
Dons narrowed his eyes slightly but showed no sign of alarm. "I haven't heard about this so-called news," he said flatly. "And you know I don't concern myself with gossip or propaganda. I focus on facts and reliable intelligence, not sensationalist tales."
Athan chuckled lightly. "Perhaps, but this isn't just a rumor whispered in taverns. It's spreading fast, and the Elf King's involvement makes it significant. Surely, it warrants at least some consideration?"
Dons leaned back in his chair, his gaze piercing as he regarded Athan. "I've known Leo Gemini for over 22 years. This doesn't align with the man I've studied and observed. He may be a cunning strategist, but taking Vaeloria captive and performing experiments? That's not in his character. If this news is true, it contradicts everything I've come to know about him."
Athan raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Dons' steadfastness. "You seem quite confident in your assessment of Leo."
Dons' lips curved into a faint smirk. "Confidence is built on experience, Athan. Until I have concrete evidence, I will not entertain such baseless claims. For now, focus on the facts we do know and leave the speculation to those with less discipline."
Athan gave a small nod, realizing Dons would not be easily swayed. "As you wish, Lord Dons. But if this rumor proves true, it may demand action sooner than you think."
Dons simply waved a hand dismissively. "Then we'll act accordingly. Until then, let the kingdoms gossip. It changes nothing for me."
"Athan, I have a plan for Leo if he travels to the Elf Kingdom," Dons said, his voice low and calculated. "And I believe you can be of great help to me."
Athan leaned back in his chair, a curious smirk playing on his lips. "Oh? You think so highly of me, Dons? What exactly do you have in mind?"
Dons' expression remained unreadable, his crimson eyes gleaming. "It's not about thinking highly—it's about strategy. Your connections with the Elf Kingdom and your mastery of subtle influence could be the key to testing Leo Gemini's resolve. Are you ready to play your part?"
Athan chuckled softly. "For a chance to see what Leo is truly made of? Always."
In the Ausha Empire capital, inside the royal castle, Leo woke up, his mind immediately drawn to the strange and unknown golden power that had recently manifested. "I wonder what that exactly is," he murmured to himself, his thoughts a mixture of curiosity and unease.
Turning his head slightly, Leo noticed Vaeloria lying on the bed to his right, exactly where she had been the day before. She appeared just as lifeless, unmoving, and silent as when he had left her. But then, something caught his attention—a subtle difference that made him pause.
"Is it me... or did Vaeloria just move?" he thought, his heart skipping a beat. Her eyes were open now, staring directly at him, but they lacked any sign of recognition or emotion.
Cautiously, Leo moved closer, kneeling by her side. He placed his right hand gently on her forehead, his voice soft as he spoke to her, despite knowing she wouldn't respond. "What's happening to you, Vaeloria?"
Without hesitation, Leo began channeling healing magic, his hand glowing faintly as he focused on her. The warmth of his energy flowed into her, but deep down, Leo knew it wasn't enough. Whatever had broken her spirit and mind was far beyond ordinary magic. Yet, he refused to give up, determined to find a way to bring her back.
After tending to Vaeloria, Leo made his way to the dining hall, a place he hadn't visited in over seven days. As he entered, the maids immediately stopped what they were doing and bowed deeply in respect.
With a wave of his left hand, Leo signaled them to rise and continue their work. His calm and authoritative presence seemed to breathe life back into the silent hall as he took his usual seat at the side of the grand table.
Approaching him with a platter of food was Miasha, her expression as composed as ever, though her demeanor hinted at something more beneath the surface.
"I thought you were so mad at me you'd never show up again," Leo remarked with a sly grin, looking up at her.
Miasha's cheeks puffed up slightly in an exaggerated show of annoyance, her pride clearly on display. "Hmph! Don't talk to me!" she shot back, her tone filled with mock indignation. "You're so bad when it comes to anything romantic or loving! You're the worst!"
Leo leaned back, chuckling softly at her reaction. "Oh, come on. I'm your brother. You can't act like that toward your brother!"
Miasha's eyes narrowed, and her voice grew sharper as she retorted, "Hhhhh! Shut up! I'm not your sister—I'm your maid! A maid who wanted to be your lover, but you rejected me in the worst way possible!" She crossed her arms, her tone dripping with exaggerated annoyance.
Leo shook his head with an amused smile, his chuckle growing louder. "You're impossible," he said, though the warmth in his voice was undeniable.
"Leo! You're not eating properly, not sleeping properly—how do you expect to stay healthy? You'll die at this rate!" Miasha exclaimed, her voice tinged with worry as she placed the plate firmly in front of him.
"Die?" Leo looked at her with a faint smile, leaning back in his chair. "Our lifespan is short anyway, Miasha. You know why, right?"
"Hey," Miasha said, her voice softening but still filled with concern. "I'm just worried about you, Leo. I wish we could just live a normal life, even if it meant living as commoners. Emperor? This title is nothing but a title of death! Look at the danger you're surrounded by every day. I want to stop you, but you won't listen. So instead, I'll just ask you—please, be careful."
Leo's lips curled into a small smile. "Oh, my little classic Miasha. You're just like Edward," he said with a soft chuckle.
Miasha's face brightened for a moment. "Oh? How is he?"
Hearing Edward's name, Leo's expression shifted. The weight of the mission he had assigned Edward pressed on his mind, and his brow furrowed with concern. "He's okay," Leo replied after a pause. "He will be."
Miasha noticed the subtle change in Leo's demeanor but chose not to press further. Instead, she stood up, her tone shifting back to her usual cheerfulness. "Well, Leo, I've got things to do. I'll see you later."
Before Leo could respond, Miasha left the dining hall, leaving him alone with his thoughts and the half-finished plate of food before him.
After finishing his meal, Leo began his walk toward the throne room, his steps echoing through the grand halls of the castle. As he approached the throne room doors, two royal guards bowed deeply and addressed him.
"Lord Leo," one of the guards began, "the Elf Ambassador is here and waiting in the throne room. At first, we didn't allow him entry, but he insisted it was an urgent matter—one that could determine the fate of the elves. He said you must hear it out."
Leo's eyes narrowed. "Wait, what?" he said, his voice sharp with intrigue. Without hesitation, he strode past the guards and pushed open the heavy doors of the throne room.
Inside, standing in the center of the room, was the Elf Ambassador. As soon as he saw Leo enter, the ambassador bowed deeply.
"I am Logesh Chael," he introduced himself, his tone formal and urgent. "I come bearing a message from King Sirloin of the Elf Kingdom, Emperor Leo."
Leo walked forward, his presence commanding, and ascended to the throne. He sat down, resting his elbows on the armrests, his piercing gaze fixed on the ambassador.
"What is it that's so urgent?" Leo asked, his voice calm but carrying the weight of authority.
The Elf Ambassador stepped forward, his voice trembling slightly as he began to speak. "Lord Leo, it concerns Vaeloria. We've heard... troubling news. Rumors suggest that you have her locked away and are conducting dark experiments on her."
Leo's expression remained calm, but his sharp gaze silenced the room. The ambassador continued, "The Elf Kingdom is curious and deeply concerned about the truth of these claims. They—"
Leo abruptly raised his hand, a clear gesture to stop. The ambassador immediately fell silent.
"Listen carefully," Leo began, his voice steady and authoritative. "I, Leo Gemini, would never stoop to such brutal or improper acts, especially against my own mentor. Vaeloria is like a big sister to me. I hold her in the highest regard and owe her more than I can express."
The ambassador hesitated but nodded, listening intently.
"Second," Leo continued, leaning forward slightly, "relay this to your Elf King: I will visit him to address these concerns personally. But it will not be in his kingdom."
The ambassador's brow furrowed in confusion.
"I will meet him," Leo declared, his voice like steel, "in the northern Shii areas, where the war against our common enemy rages. That battlefield will serve as our ground for discussion."
The air in the room grew heavy, Leo's words carrying both a promise and a challenge. The ambassador bowed deeply, understanding the gravity of the Emperor's words, and prepared to relay the message to his king.
After dismissing the ambassador, Leo's mind raced with thoughts of the encounter. "Old fox Hazara," he muttered under his breath, "You want to play politics with me? Very well, I'll play along for now."
His eyes narrowed as he stood in the quiet of the throne room, the weight of his words hanging in the air. "We will see. We will see what happens to you if there are any gods left watching. Maybe they will punish you soon."