Thank you for reading on ! We provide free access to all our stories, but maintaining this platform requires ongoing costs. To keep the site running and continue offering free content, we display advertisements. You can close the ads anytime, or upgrade to premium membership ($5/month) for an ad-free reading experience while supporting our mission. You can also earn premium for free by completing simple tasks. We truly appreciate your understanding and support!Cira knew they wouldn't sell them out, not without a fight. The doors of Hades were open, and though it was inevitable, they couldn't afford to delay any longer. She felt exhausted and achy, as if her entire body had been worn down. The days seemed to be drawing to an end, and she needed to find a place where she could rest and recover. She called for Liona to help her up. Liona approached, concern etched on her face. "How can I help the princess?" "We're leaving," Cira replied, her voice steady despite her fatigue. "Where to?" Liona asked."We're returning to Laios." "You still don't look well. Perhaps we should stay hidden a little longer." "That's exactly why we're going. Help me get out of here. We can't remain hidden in caves." Liona nodded and helped Cira out of the cave. Cira walked almost as if she were dragging herself, weak from days without proper food or sleep. Once outside, she approached the dragons she had revived, her eyes drawn to the largest one, which seemed to be her favorite. With great effort, she climbed onto its back, feeling a surge of strength as the dragon lifted off the ground.Liona followed suit, mounting another dragon. As they soared toward the kingdom of Laios, Cira knew they would face challenges ahead. Cira was aware of the most vulnerable spots in the barrier, allowing them to enter without much trouble. The abandoned mansion they were heading to was quite far from their entry point, but it was a place they could find refuge. Once inside, Liona helped Cira settle in. The mansion, though neglected, was not entirely unwelcoming. "How long has this mansion been abandoned?" Liona asked, glancing around. "It was left to ruin when the monsters invaded Laios.Those who survived fled to the capital. Even now, there are many monsters lurking about. They must be terrified to return." "There's a room on the second floor. Please, take me there," Cira instructed. Liona complied without question, laying Cira down on the bed. Cira took a moment to catch her breath, grateful for the brief respite. Liona quickly prepared the bedding, still acting as a servant despite her own powers. "I wonder what I should make for dinner," Liona mused, glancing around the abandoned space."I'll need to venture into the woods to find something to cook." As she gathered her thoughts, a rustling sound interrupted her. "Who's there?" Cira called out, her voice firm despite her weakness. "You should ask who I am," came a voice from the shadows. "Yes, you're a monster from Hades," Cira replied, her heart racing. "You're a monster too, at least in part," the voice retorted. "Monsters recognize us," Cira said, trying to make sense of the situation. "I saw you arrive with this girl," the voice continued. "She grants me power. She's trying to open the doors of Hades.Why not join us?" "No, I prefer to remain in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to act. The moment when the monsters let us reign." "If that's your choice, you should help us," Cira urged. "I don't like being seen," the voice replied. "The monsters in the front lines are the ones who sacrifice themselves to keep the doors open," Cira explained. "You have intelligence," the voice said, a hint of admiration in its tone. "I've seen few monsters like you." "Why do you think we managed to escape from Hades?" Cira asked. "I don't know, but I'm sure you'll tell me," the voice replied.noveldrama"The cracks lead to the depths because of humans. They are the ones who control beings like you, at least not any longer." "Are you strong?" the voice inquired. "Stronger than you think. The key to Hades is not in the hands of monsters or mortals. Those keys were created to confine us, not to free us." "Does that mean we cannot open the doors of Hades?" "They can be opened, but not by monsters or humans. This girl will open them. She will want to see it." "Then why are you here?" the voice asked, its tone shifting."If you decide to go to the girl, you'll help us gain our freedom," Cira insisted. "I want to be free now, but she is weak, and you could destroy her," the voice warned. "We will not surrender," Cira declared, her resolve firm. "I can do it now. Have patience; the moment will come, but this is not the time." Meanwhile, Fay had been restless, having spent the night examining the remains of the dragon. After deciding what to do next, he resolved to rest. "Everyone knew I would leave, so I'm withdrawing," he said as he turned to go."Fay, could you talk to me for a moment?" "What's going on?" he asked, pausing. "I'm going on a journey to recover the body of the first guardian. Arik has offered to support me. The kingdom isn't safe right now; it's better if you don't come." "If you're worried about Tarik's safety, you shouldn't be. If you're already weak, we're not. He is her successor, and if you want to support me-" "You trust too much in your strength," Fay interrupted. "That's why I'm the same as you. That's why I'm as strong as you are.That's why I trust him." "If you're going, I'd like you to take me with you," Fay said, determination in his eyes. "Then go and rest. I haven't slept at all since I arrived." "Wait, there's something I'd like to ask you," Fay said, his curiosity piqued. "What is it?" "How long will you be in Cosset?" "I don't know yet. Why do you ask?" "Just curiosity, that's all!" Fay replied, a hint of a smile on his face.