Ikenga and Keles exchanged a long look, silent understanding flashing between them. In Zarvok's plight, they saw a reflection of their own. His path was no different from theirs.
He pursued strength to preserve his realm and they fought for strength to preserve their own home.
"Why are you so willing to tell us all this?" Keles asked at last. Her voice was low but sharp, her eyes fixed on him. She had spent enough time in Zarvok's presence to know, he was not a man who parted with his truths lightly.
Zarvok turned his gaze to her. For a moment, silence stretched, broken only by the whisper of the abyssal winds curling through the palace hall. Then he spoke.
"Because I require your help," he said plainly. "And in turn, I hope we can build an alliance."
Both Ikenga and Keles stiffened, surprise flickering across their features. The idea of a Demon Lord, an ascended sovereign of the abyss asking for allies was something both has not yet entertained or thought of.
