The Damned Demon
chapter-654

In the political landscape of Russia, power was wielded by both mundane and elite Hunter families, seamlessly intertwined. The Volkov Family, as the preeminent Supreme Class Family, stood at the pinnacle of this intricate hierarchy. No family in the world would ever dare challenge them, including the most powerful ones.

Their dominance was not limited to mana; they had seamlessly integrated their mana prowess with political acumen, creating a legacy of unrivaled influence. The Volkovs held a reserved seat in the national government, allowing them to shape policies and decisions that further entrenched their control. Their economic empire spanned conglomerates and guilds, enabling them to manipulate markets and invest in both the mystical and mundane spheres. Their private army and Hunter forces served as a powerful deterrent against threats, both internal and external, while their public image was polished through philanthropic ventures and sponsorship of Hunter training.

On this particular day, the estate of the Volkov Family, an imposing edifice of grandeur and centuries of power, loomed in the distance as Cecilia and Asher approached along with their entourage.

The sprawling grounds of the estate were cloaked in the grandeur of Russian aristocracy, with manicured gardens and towering statues standing sentinel. The estate's architecture was a blend of classical Russian design and esoteric mystical embellishments, reflecting the Volkovs' dual mastery over both realms.

As Cecilia and Asher descended from their sleek, armored transport, the chill of the Russian air seemed to bite with a palpable edge of hostility.

Cecilia, clad in a meticulously tailored bright blue gown that accentuated her voluptuous curves with grace, glanced at Advisor Ash, who seemed more calm than she expected. As expected, he must be used to meeting powerful people.

However, she glanced to the side to see the tall, gorgeous woman with bright red eyes, tied-up silver hair, and rectangular spectacles walking beside Ash. She didn't expect Ash to bring along his assistant, but she didn't mind if she made his job easier.

The estate's entrance was guarded by imposing figures in dark uniforms, their expressions stern and sharp. The emblem of the Volkov Family—a silver eagle intertwined with mystical runes—gleamed on their lapels. The guards' gazes were icy as they assessed the newcomers with practiced disdain.

As Cecilia and Asher approached, one of the guards stepped forward, his voice a cold rasp, "State your business."

Cecilia blinked in disbelief upon hearing his cold command. It was not as if they came here without letting the Volkov Family know why they were coming here. Or were they just trying to provoke her?

However, she took a deep breath, her voice calm yet firm, "I am Cecilia Sterling, representing the World Hunter Association. I am here to negotiate the development of a Junction Tower within Russian territory. My associate, Ash, is here to assist in these discussions."

The guard's eyes narrowed, and he exchanged a brief, meaningful look with his comrades. The hostility was almost tangible, though Cecilia wasn't surprised since she knew how much they hated the WHA.

The guard's voice, though polite, held an edge, "The Volkovs are aware of your request. However, it is customary for WHA representatives to be met with the highest scrutiny. Your guards will have to stay outside."

The guards standing behind Cecilia tightened the grips on their guns as if they were annoyed by this Russian guard's words. However, Cecilia turned towards her guards and said, "You all can stay outside," and then turned towards the Russian guard, "Please make sure they are comfortable out here."

Asher, standing beside Cecilia, observed the proceedings with a cool, detached demeanor. However, his mind occasionally kept drifting away.

It had been so many years since he properly stepped foot on the land where he was born as a human…where he and his mother once lived together. He couldn't help but remember the few happy memories followed by the bittersweet and painful ones.

The guards, with a begrudging nod, allowed Cecilia and Asher to proceed, their eyes never leaving the WHA contingent as they were directed to wait outside. The massive iron gates of the estate creaked open, and upon crossing the threshold, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. As they stepped through the grand entrance of the Volkov estate, the expansive foyer stretched out before them, adorned with lavish tapestries and ancient artifacts. The opulence of the surroundings only served to underscore the frightening power held within these walls.

Suddenly, a young man emerged, and upon recognizing him, Asher's eyes briefly turned warm.

Mikhail Volkov emerged from the shadows of a side corridor, his presence sharp and commanding.

Dressed in an impeccably tailored suit that highlighted his muscular build, Mikhail's short brown hair was neatly combed, and his piercing brown eyes glinted with a guarded sharpness.

The scar cutting across his face added an air of hardened experience to his otherwise youthful visage. As he approached, he quickly and imperceptibly gave Asher a knowing glance, feeling good to see him after a long time again.

But what stirred him more was seeing him in a human body, especially his golden eyes that eerily seemed similar to when he was a human. He still couldn't help but curse fate for what it did to his brother.

"I am Mikhail Volkov," he introduced himself with a curt nod as he looked at Cecilia.

Cecilia raised her hand for a handshake, "I am pleased to meet you in person, General Mikhail. I have heard a lot about your spoils, and I am grateful for your-"

"I will be your guide today. Please, follow me." Mikhail coldly interrupted her as he turned around. He couldn't stand the presence of anyone who represented the WHA. But for Asher's sake, he was putting up with this.

Cecilia gave a strained smile as she slowly lowered her hand and followed him.

As they walked through the ornate corridors, the walls lined with portraits of past Volkov patriarchs and magical artifacts, Cecilia couldn't help but feel the weight of centuries of power bearing down on her. Mikhail led them to the guest hall, a grand chamber where the air seemed to hum with oppressive authority.

The door to the guest hall swung open to reveal a figure of imposing strength and undeniable authority. His appearance was both regal and intimidating. He sat on a grand, velvet-clad sofa that exuded an air of imperial command, his posture exuding an aura of stern resolve.

His long, dark coat was adorned with intricate gold embroidery, accentuating his indomitable presence. His graying hair and sharp, angular features spoke of a life lived in the crucible of power and conflict. His brown eyes, deep-set and cold, seemed to pierce through the very essence of those who dared to meet his gaze.

He was none other than Vladmir Volkov, the patriarch of this family and the most feared man in Russia.

Several maids, dressed in muted, respectful attire, attended to him, their movements swift and efficient as they brought him refreshments and tidied the surroundings. With a wave of his hand, they immediately walked out.

Despite the lavishness of the setting, an underlying tension crackled in the air.

As Cecilia and Asher entered, Mikhail looked at the old man and gave a respectful nod, "Father…I have brought them over as you wished."

Vladimir's gaze swept over them with a palpable hostility, making Cecilia feel as if this old man may not even hesitate to kill her if she said something wrong.

He glanced at the tall man accompanying Cecilia, making his eyes flicker momentarily. But the next second, he casually ignored him.

Asher inwardly smiled, seeing how Mikhail's old man was still looking good and strong despite his age. However, he felt guilty upon seeing him because of what happened to Irina. He knew Irina was Vladmir's soul.

If not for the plan he discussed with Mikhail, he had no doubt Vladmir might consider taking Cecilia's life on the spot just to get back at the WHA.

His voice, though calm, was laced with an unmistakable edge, "Cecilia Sterling," he said, each name pronounced with a weight of disdain, "To what do we owe the displeasure of your visit?"

Cecilia offered a practiced smile, her tone carefully measured, "Patriarch Volkov, it's an honor to be received by you. I understand that our presence here is... unconventional and not welcome, but I am here to discuss a matter of mutual interest. The WHA is interested in negotiating the development of a Junction Tower within Russian territory. It concerns the security of the entire world, including your country."

Vladimir's eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward slightly, the movement accentuating his intimidating presence, "Mutual interest, you say? The WHA's reputation precedes it, and it is no secret that our family and country have been preyed upon by your association for centuries by manipulating our enemies and rival factions."

Cecilia maintained her composure, though she could feel the weight of Vladimir's hostility pressing down on her, "I am fully aware of the complexities of our history. However, I believe that collaboration on this matter could benefit both our parties. We wish to address any concerns you may have and work towards a solution that aligns with both our interests."

Vladimir's expression remained stern, his voice dripping with skepticism, "And why should we believe that the WHA's intentions are genuine? Your organization has orchestrated schemes to undermine Russia's power and influence for years. How can we trust that this is not another ruse? If anything, shouldn't you at least offer your head as a gesture of sincerity after your people took my granddaughter's life?" As he said this, his eyes briefly glowed with killing intent.

Cecilia's smile tightened slightly, but her voice remained steady, "I understand your mistrust, and I assure you, my presence here is to build bridges, not to deepen divisions. But I am afraid you misunderstand. We never gave any orders to kill your daughter. All we wanted was to apprehend her and stop her from spreading any misinformation, especially regarding the Corrupted Prince. If she had succeeded in any way, it could have jeopardized world peace. So if there is any way I can demonstrate our commitment to a fair and productive dialogue, I am prepared to do so."

Cecilia knew very well that Vladmir's children, Irina and Mikhail, had conspired to destroy the WHA from within in the past. But of course, she knew better than to mention that now that Irina was dead.

"Are you playing the fool, or are you just that naive, Cecilia Sterling?" Vladimir asked with a sharp, stifling gaze.

Cecilia blinked her eyes and maintained a calm expression despite his disrespectful words as she asked, "I am sorry. I don't understand what you-"

"Let me make it simple. Are you truly doing this for the safety of our world, or are you doing it to fulfill your ambitious husband's personal agendas?" Vladimir asked with an inquisitive gaze.