Ten years had passed since the civil war. Arcadia had finally become, in the truest sense, the heart of the continent.

  In a city with such vast racial diversity, one might expect fights to break out often. In part, that was true—some among the older generations still couldn’t see eye to eye with one another—but change was undeniably happening for the better.

  Envoys of the demon realm could be seen moving throughout the city unimpeded, without the need for excessive guards.

  The musketmen had since evolved into the Royal Guard, and while sabers and horses were still used now and then, firearms such as rifles and pistols had become far more prominent tools for self-defense and law enforcement.

  “Is this truly the city of humans?” A horned female demon asked while gazing out from her carriage.

  Her dark blue skin, black sclera, and blood-red irises were features that would surely have drawn unwanted attention in most cities east to the demon realm.

  “Trust me, milady,” a demi-human butler reassured her. “Queen Leona’s citizens are far more civilized than those to the north or the far east.”

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  “Truly?” She twisted her mouth and raised an eyebrow. “It’s hard to believe that, considering they were at our throats just a few decades ago.”

  “Haha, I understand your skepticism, but do give this kingdom a chance.”

  “Very well…”

  Her carriage was received by dark blue–uniformed Royal Guards stationed at the castle’s entrance. One of the soldiers—a human woman—opened the side door and politely offered her a hand.

  “Ah, thank you,” the envoy said as she stepped down.

  “The Queen is waiting for you. Please, come this way.”

  With courtesy befitting a royal guest, the envoy was escorted into the throne room, where she found herself standing between two thrones.

  On the left sat Leona, clad in her customary black military uniform. Her cap rested lightly in the crook of her left arm, and her sharp aquamarine eyes held a hint of curiosity tempered with respect.

  On the right stood a demi-human man wearing a similar military outfit. His coiled black horns, muscular frame, and imposing stature made him appear almost demonic, yet his neatly combed blond hair and calm crimson eyes put the envoy somewhat at ease as she approached.

  She knelt and bowed her head.

  “It is a pleasure to meet you, Queen Leona and King Cyrus.”