"Your Highness." A robust bald man in a brown robe dropped down on his knees.

The masked man was in the middle of a nap, when he was disrupted by his subordinate. He was somewhat annoyed, but chose not to show it. Instead he munched on a cluster of grapes.

"Eleven should have updated you of the situation."

"Yes, your Highness. I am ready to leave as soon as you command it." Determination coursed through Eight as he thought of this opportunity to prove his worth to his Highness.

"Bring this with you." A small tablet in ebony was thrown at him, which he immediately caught.

Eight observed it and noticed the lack of engravings. Typically, a tablet was used as a proof of identity or position and thus would have a name engraved in it.

He was somewhat curious about the item he held in his palm, but knew better than to ask unnecessary questions. A good subordinate should just follow the master's orders.

"Give this to the Fire High God Magma and tell him to keep it well. His greatest wish might be fulfilled if he does."

"Will do, your Highness. Any other orders?"

"No, you are dismissed."

"Yes, your Highness." Eight gave another bow before leaving.

As soon as he was gone, the masked man sat up and filled his mouth with another grape.

"Zero."

A shadow stepped out of the dark walls and saluted on his feet. Zero was like his master clad entirely in dark clothes.

"Your Highness."

"It's finally time for some action." The masked man cracked his knuckles with a hint of a smile.

"Maybe everything will go smoothly and no force will be needed." Zero said deadpan, which popped the bubble of excitement for his master.

"Zero! Can't you for once show a bit consideration. Don't always spoil my fun."

"I apologise." Zero didn't sound sorry at all.

"Then do so with some sincerity. Even an idiot can tell that you don't regret it."

"I am so sorry, your Highness. I will not repeat my mistake." Zero attempted again, but was still using the same monotonous voice.

A deep sigh could be heard, as the masked man for the nth time failed to change his friend's character. He wondered why he even kept trying.

"Nevermind. Let's go." He stood up and stretched his limbs.

"But before we go, do you want some grapes?" The masked man held out the bowl with his favorite fruit.

"No thanks." Zero's upper lip twitched in disgust.