The discussion gradually shifted toward logistics. Maps were spread across the enormous council table.
Although the Goddess had revealed the general location, the map had provided little in the way of detailed geography.
Instead, several royal scholars had compared old expedition journals, forgotten trade routes, and ancient military records in an attempt to narrow the search, though none of them knew exactly what they were looking for.
While Lilith had a vague idea where it was, she saw it was better to ask the experts and prevent what had happened in the blood ocean ruin.
One elderly scholar carefully pointed toward a mountain range drawn near the eastern coast of the Demonic Continent.
"We believe the location lies somewhere within this region."
He looked almost apologetic.
"I wish I could be more precise."
Atheline studied the map.
"You’ve done well. The Goddess only showed us fragments. Anything beyond that is already more than we possessed."
The scholar bowed gratefully.
Another official stepped forward carrying several sealed scrolls.
"These contain letters addressed to His Majesty, the Demon King. They include formal greetings, updates regarding trade agreements, and confirmation that this journey is exploratory rather than military."
Lilith accepted the scrolls.
"They will be delivered personally."
The meeting continued for nearly two hours. Most of the discussion revolved around ensuring the kingdom could function normally during Lilith’s absence.
Unlike previous years, however, there was very little disagreement. The council had matured considerably. Months of working together through crises had forged a level of trust that had not existed before. Even when opinions differed, discussions remained respectful.
As the meeting concluded, Lilith rose from her throne.
"Continue governing as you always have. My absence does not mean the kingdom stops moving."
The councillors stood together.
"It will be done, Your Majesty."
By midday, the palace had become noticeably busier. Servants carried neatly packed crates toward one of the secure storage chambers connected to the royal teleportation hall.
Unlike ordinary luggage, every item destined for the expedition underwent careful inspection before being sealed.
Atheline walked into the chamber just as several attendants finished arranging the equipment. He slowly looked over everything. Additional supplies would be purchased within the Demonic Kingdom before they departed for whatever their location might be.
Beside the travel equipment rested several reinforced wooden cases. He opened the first.
Inside lay carefully organized healing medicines prepared by the palace alchemists.
The palace physician stepped forward.
"My Lord. I’ve included additional antidotes. The Demonic Continent possesses many poisonous plants unfamiliar to us."
He nodded appreciatively.
"Thank you."
The second case contained emergency supplies. Everything was well organised and had been checked twice. Atheline closed the lid with satisfaction.
"It looks like we’re ready."
A familiar voice answered behind him.
"Almost."
Lilith entered the chamber carrying a long black case. She placed it gently upon the table before opening it. Inside rested the ceremonial diplomatic gifts.
Beautifully crafted moonstone ornaments, dark Elven silk, several bottles of the kingdom’s finest wine, and rare medicinal herbs cultivated beneath the World Tree they had gotten from their first visit.
This was enough to honor another sovereign without appearing boastful.
Atheline smiled.
"I think the Demon King will appreciate these."
"They represent our kingdom, and that is what matters."
As the attendants carefully resealed the cases, another craftsman entered carrying something considerably smaller.
He bowed deeply.
"Your Majesties. The final fitting has been completed."
The elderly craftsman knelt before placing a small leather harness upon the table.
Atheline’s eyes widened.
"...Is that?"
The craftsman smiled proudly.
"For the little guardian."
At the mention of the word "guardian," the white fox immediately appeared from beneath a nearby shelf. Her ears perked up curiously.
The harness had been crafted from exceptionally light enchanted leather. Thin silver threads reinforced the stitching while flexible plates protected the chest without restricting movement.
The craftsman carefully lifted the fox.
"If I may."
The little creature surprisingly remained still. Several moments later, the harness had been secured comfortably around its body. The fox looked down at herself before taking several experimental steps.
She wasn’t bothered in the slightest. Instead, she proudly trotted across the room.
The attendants laughed softly.
"It suits you." Atheline crouched beside her. "I suppose you’re officially joining the expedition now."
The fox gave a cheerful chirp. Lilith gently adjusted one of the straps.
"It fits perfectly."
The craftsman bowed again.
"I designed it to grow slightly. It should remain comfortable for several months."
"You’ve done excellent work."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
Later that afternoon, they carried out one final inspection of the teleportation hall itself.
The chief court manipulator noticed their arrival.
"Your Majesty. The circle has been fully calibrated; it will take you directly to the Demonic Royal Palace."
"And the return?"
"A second linked formation has already been established. If needed, His Majesty the Demon King has graciously permitted its use."
Lilith nodded.
"Our thanks."
Atheline stepped onto the edge of the teleportation platform. For several moments, he quietly studied the glowing runes beneath his feet.
This circle would mark the beginning of another journey. One unlike any they had undertaken before.
The Demonic Continent.
A land they knew little about. To the rough location shown by the Goddess. There was a possibility of discovering ancient answers or ancient dangers, perhaps both.
He felt no fear, only anticipation.
As evening settled over the palace, the couple returned to their private chambers.
The last rays of sunlight filtered through the balcony windows while servants quietly delivered the evening meal before leaving them alone.
Neither spoke immediately.
Atheline looked toward the packed travel cases resting neatly against the far wall.
"Hard to believe."
Lilith followed his gaze.
"We’ve spent nearly two months preparing and now... only one week remains."
He smiled faintly.
"I remember when this was only an idea."
"So do I."
She poured tea into two cups before handing one to him.
"The Goddess gave us only a direction. We’ve spent the rest of the time preparing ourselves to follow it."
He accepted the cup.
"No matter what we find... we’ll finally have answers."
"Perhaps."
She looked toward the evening sky beyond the balcony.
"Or perhaps only more questions."
He laughed softly.
"That sounds more likely."
She couldn’t help smiling.