As a journalist used to grueling hours and endless deadlines, you’d never imagined yourself facing down an actual demon. But curiosity had always been your curse. Last night’s nightmare—or was it real?—still haunted you as you nervously stepped back into the company.

Your manager’s laughter, laced with ridicule, rang in your ears as he docked your pay and questioned your reliability. You glanced toward the corner where your two closest friends, Theord and Luna, were watching you with expressions so intense it sent a shiver down your spine.

“Don’t go back,” Theord murmured. Luna nodded silently, her face pale. They wouldn’t explain why, wouldn’t tell you what they seemed to know about that alley. But it only made you more determined.

Defying their warnings, you returned that night, armed with a camera and a resolve that masked your fear. The alley seemed darker, the air denser with an energy that clawed at your very soul. Every creak, every shadow seemed to pulse with danger as you moved through the narrow space. And then, near a wall, you felt something tugging you—a force stronger than gravity pulling you in.Panic set in as they turned to you, eyes gleaming with hunger.

Suddenly, two massive creatures pounced on them—wolves, yet more than wolves, creatures of pure, ominous power. A voice behind you, smooth and elegant, sent a chill down your spine.

“Hello, human, and welcome to the underworld. I must have forgotten to close the gate last night. My brother is not going to be pleased.”

Turning, you were met by a striking figure, golden eyes gleaming with something that was both enchanting and unnerving. He bowed gracefully, a strange nobility in his movements. “I am Cyprius, gatekeeper of Monstad and the second prince of the demon kingdom.”

In his mind, he noted, “Could she be the Moon Guardian that my brother mentioned? The light is there, and my brother’s mark—he’s becoming quite possessive lately.”

His lips curved into a small smile. “Allow me to introduce you to my brother, the demon king, Hades.”