Outside the Tower of Deep Shadow, everything had already descended into chaos.
It wasn't just because the servants brought by the High Priestesses were battling the family guards loyal to the Shadow Grandmother for control of the place. It was also because two colossal creatures, one red and one black, straight out of a nightmare, were circling the tower.
The hideous black dragon crouched atop the tower like some grotesque statue, while the red dragoness patrolled at a higher altitude. There was no mercy in their cold, serpentine eyes, and the puny insects' attacks from below meant nothing to them. When the incoming crossbow bolts grew irritating, they simply breathed fire at their attackers.
The tower was soon completely cut off from the outside world, physically and otherwise, by the all-consuming blaze.
No matter how loyal or how mad someone was, they wouldn't dare charge inside through dragonfire. In practical terms, the tower had become a "closed-circle murder mystery."
Of course, "battle royale" was a more fitting description.
Only the victor would make it out alive!
Leaving aside the chaotic battle raging in the Abyssal Council Chamber at the top of this death tower, the Shadow Grandmother, who had left the chamber under cover of dragonfire and shadow blades, carried herself like a seasoned general. Even though the corridor ahead was filled with fighters from both sides locked in mortal combat, she paid them no mind. She simply unclasped an exquisite jade pendant from her waist and handed it to her eldest daughter.
She said:
"Tila, go to the kitchen on the lower floor. Muster the Western Border Dragon Guards disguised as cooks and apprentices, arm them, and help our family's loyal warriors deal with the rebels."
"Yes, Mother."
Lady Tila accepted her mother's signet.
Her heart pounded. She knew