Deep in the farthest recesses of a desolate land stood a towering castle, black and ominous, surrounded by dead trees overlooking an empty town. A blood red moon shone down constantly, glinting off the obsidian walls and casting a crimson glow on every surface it touched. The only other light provided in this land of perpetual night was the numerous torches lining the streets and the candles glowing ghostly in the empty windows. In the distance, a cloud of red dust kicked up on the dirt road. As it drew closer, one could easily distinguish a hooded figure riding atop a skeletal horse. It ran maniacally through the streets pausing only when it reached the cavernous doors of the foreboding castle. The rider alighted and strode purposefully forward into the darkened interior of the kingdom. The main hall was dimly lit as to be expected, but through the moonlight one could see grandeur present in every detail. From the fine crimson tapestries to the black wrought-iron detailing of the furniture, no expense was spared. In the center, a large staircase led up through the darkness. The horseman ascended, his shadow moving swiftly past the windows.At the top of the steps was a large corridor lined with numerous doors. The figure passed these without hesitation, heading for the massive black double doors at the very end. A hand reached for one of the iron door knockers, yet the door opened of their own will, the wood creaking, echoing eerily into the distance. The room was black as night and silent as the grave. Soundlessly, candles flickered to life, revealing a candlelit path to a large black throne. The figure seated upon it smirked, gold eyes glimmering in the semi-darkness. His clothes were immaculate and elegant as was his style, his jet black hair flowing around his shoulders seeming to melt into the black coat. He did not rise as the figure stepped over the threshold, bowing low before the throne. The rider removed his hood with a shaky hand, revealing a young man, white-haired despite his apparent youth. He pushed a pair of glasses back upon the bridge of his nose before speaking.
"M-my Lord," he stuttered, "forgive the intrusion, but I have come with news. Divinus and Celestia have been destroyed."
The man on the throne started, his look becoming keen and penetrative. A writhing horror twisted itself across his features, darkening them with a powerful emotion, which, nevertheless, he so instantaneously controlled by an effort of his will. Soon, it subsided into the very depths of his nature.
"And the inhabitants?" His voice was dark and powerful.
"All are dead, sir. Save for two. The Kami of Divinus and the Peacemaker of Celestia."
The ruler relaxed back into hi seat.
"Who are the ones responsible?"
"A shadow dragon obliterated Divinus, and two Infernals eradicated Celestia."
The Lord was silent momentarily as he stood from the throne, crossing to a nearby window. He looked out at the expanse of his kingdom, the moon reflecting off of his pale skin and gleaming fangs.
"Keep an eye on this 'Peacemaker' and 'Kami'. They hold the last of the blood we need. Heaven is still intact, I trust?"
"Yes, sir. Though chances are it will not remain that way for long."
"Very well. The time to act then is upon us. Gather all the troops that you can. Use any means necessary, but bring back to me the Celestial, the Divena, and one of Heaven's angels ALIVE. Only then can my kingdom's plan be put into action. Go now! Any delay will end your miserable life."
The servant shuddered and bowed low.
"Y-Yes, My Lord." He turned quickly and exited the room. The king watched horse and rider depart before coming away from the window. He left the room silently and entered another chamber, pith black if not for the bloody glow of countless crystals aligning every surface offered in the room. The shadows made his grim countenance even more malicious as he bent over the stones, searching. Plucking two gems from their places he carried them to the center of the room, suspending them above a shallow pool of water. The glow reflected on the pool's surface, showing two small likenesses of the survivors of Celestia and Divinus. The king stood watching and waiting for news of their arrival.
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