Arrests, Hotels, and the Spark of War

The city of Eldoria buzzed with its usual evening hustle, but Lotran was anything but relaxed. He paced the cobbled streets, scanning the crowd.

“Where in the world did that fluffball run off to now?” he muttered to himself.

A vendor nearby overheard and chuckled. “You looking for that strange little creature who talks? Got himself arrested, he did. Guards hauled him off not too long ago.”

Lotran’s jaw dropped. “Arrested? For what?”

The vendor shrugged. “No clue. Something about causing a disturbance in the market.”

Sighing, Lotran rubbed his temples. “Of course he got into trouble. It’s Zearon we’re talking about.” He thanked the vendor and hurried off toward the guard station.

---

Inside the station, Zearon sat in a tiny iron cage that was far too cramped for his liking.

“This is ridiculous,” he grumbled, his fluffy tail twitching in irritation. “I was just helping someone! How does that get me arrested?”

Ari, his ever-present system companion, chimed in. “You know, Zearon, you could easily break out of this cage. You’ve got the strength.”

Zearon shook his head firmly. “No way. I’m not a criminal! Escaping would make me look guilty. Besides, I don’t want them chasing me through the city. I’d miss dinner.”

Ari sighed. “You have such... unique priorities.”

---

Lotran burst into the guard station, his face a mix of worry and exasperation. “I’m here to get my... uh... friend,” he told the guards, though he struggled to find the right word for Zearon.

One of the guards raised an eyebrow. “You mean the talking blue animal?”

“Yes, that’s him,” Lotran replied, trying to sound convincing. “He’s not dangerous, just... a little unusual. Please let him go.”

The guards exchanged doubtful looks. “He caused quite the scene earlier.”

Lotran sighed and leaned in. “Look, he’s not from around here. He didn’t mean any harm. I’ll keep an eye on him and make sure he stays out of trouble. Please.”

After a tense pause, the guards relented. “Fine. But if he causes any more problems, he’s staying in there.”

As Zearon was released, he shot Lotran a grateful look. “Thanks, buddy! I knew you’d come for me!”

Lotran rolled his eyes. “Next time, try not to get arrested, okay?”

“No promises!” Zearon replied with a cheeky grin.

---

The two walked through the city, the lanterns casting a warm glow on the streets.

“I think we need a break,” Lotran said. “Let’s find an inn for the night.”

Zearon’s ears perked up. “An inn? Does it have food?!”

“Most likely,” Lotran replied, shaking his head.

They found a small inn with a cozy atmosphere. Lotran booked a room, and Zearon wasted no time flopping onto the soft bed.

“This is amazing!” Zearon said, burying himself in the blankets.

Lotran chuckled as he unpacked his things. “Goodnight, Zearon. Try not to cause any chaos tomorrow.”

Within minutes, Zearon was snoring softly, his fluffy form barely visible under the pile of blankets.

---

While the two rested, the guard station was plunged into chaos. A dark shadow slithered through the walls, moving unnaturally. It crept into the room where the guards were stationed, their laughter and chatter turning to screams as the shadow engulfed them.

One of the guards, a young man named Kellen, stood frozen as the shadow latched onto him. His body convulsed before going limp, his eyes glowing faintly red. When he spoke, his voice was low and distorted.

“Perfect,” the demon hissed through Kellen’s mouth.

The possessed guard walked calmly out of the station, heading toward the neighboring kingdom of Arinth.

---

By the time the sun rose, the city of Arinth was in flames. Soldiers scrambled to defend their home as the possessed guard led an attack on one of the kingdom’s major bases.

“An attack from Eldoria?” one soldier shouted. “Why would our allies do this?”

The demon grinned, watching the chaos unfold. It relished the confusion and distrust it was sowing.

When the dust settled, the base was in ruins, and the demon had slipped away unnoticed.

---

Back in Arinth’s royal palace, King Hadric sat on his throne, fuming as he read the reports.

“Eldoria dares to betray us?” he roared, slamming his fist on the armrest. “This is an act of war!”

His advisors exchanged nervous glances. “Your Majesty, we don’t have definitive proof—”

“They destroyed our base!” Hadric interrupted. “Send word to our armies. We march on Eldoria at once.”

---

Meanwhile, unaware of the brewing storm, Zearon and Lotran were enjoying a peaceful breakfast at the inn.

“Lotran, have you tried these pancakes?” Zearon asked, his cheeks puffed out with food. “They’re amazing!”

Lotran sighed. “Slow down, Zearon. You’re going to choke.”

Zearon waved a paw dismissively. “Don’t worry. I’ve got this.”

As the two ate, the innkeeper approached their table. “You two heading out today?”

“Yeah,” Lotran replied. “We’ve got a long journey ahead.”

“Safe travels, then,” the innkeeper said with a smile.

Zearon grinned. “Thanks! And keep those pancakes ready for my next visit!”

The two packed their things and set off, completely unaware of the trouble that was heading their way.

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