"The reason for the abbreviation is as follows: Mind and Spirit annihilator, with potential sights of paranormal activity. The number eight is dictated by when this Titan had been discovered compared to the others." Rosalie explained, throwing a few disapproving glances towards Michael but not daring to cause trouble with Nicole nearby.

"According to the reports of the higher-ups, MSAP-8 doesn’t specialize in physical capabilities but in mental attacks and especially dangerous illusions..."

She sucked in a cold breath.

"Usually, illusions are nothing more than a manipulation of light and our senses, making us perceive things that aren’t there..."

Rosalie’s eyes darkened.

"However, MSAP-8’s abilities defy all reason. The Titan’s illusions actually possess real-life qualities. The alien can create enemies that can hurt you and structures that feel real to the touch. Extra caution is requested."

"So other than the Titan, we would essentially be facing an army governed by its own rule?" Noctis inquired, his silvery hair trailing like a misty waterfall. "Is there a limit to that ability? For instance, a maximum number of troops under its control, or a cap on how much land it could manipulate?"

It was a well-thought-out question. Rosalie’s lips parted, about to respond.

Yet before she could, an adorable giggling echoed, catching everybody off guard.

"No."

The answer came from everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

In a heartbeat, a woman’s silhouette appeared next to Noctis.

She was the second Supreme Lord the Immortal Legion possessed. Her name was Persephone.

Bearing a slender build, her height reached the 165-centimeter mark.

From a simple glance, it was apparent the woman honed an elegant physique, the result of countless life-endangering battles. 𝚏𝕣𝕖𝚎𝚠𝚎𝚋𝚗𝐨𝐯𝕖𝕝.𝕔𝐨𝕞

Her raven-black hair was cut to shoulder length. The eyes, which many claimed were a mirror to one’s soul, appeared bottomless black, observing the world with a subtle degree of insanity.

Persephone’s face radiated an unsettling amount of perfect charm. Like a fragile doll that had to be handled with the utmost care, lest her flawless skin be tainted.

But without a doubt, the most mesmerizing aspect she possessed was the aura emitting from her presence.

It was widely believed that Nicole was the strongest Supreme Lord in existence.

Persephone was regarded as the second strongest.

Most of the present Lords frowned at her appearance. Persephone was known for her chaotic and unhinged nature.

Perhaps in the whole world, she was the worst enemy one could make due to her tendency to go all the way when holding grudges.

Only Noctis wasn’t startled by her sudden appearance, already used to her behavior.

"Is this insight from King Zaiden?" He asked.

Persephone nodded. "Yes, our King has been quite generous in supplying us with information about the enemy we are about to face, despite already having his hands full..."

She paused briefly.

"Unfortunately, the Supreme Lords from the Golden Vanguard seem to be lacking the manners to show up..."

With the rivalry between the Immortal Legion and Golden Vanguard factions, Persephone didn’t miss the chance to throw a jab at their rival’s delay.

Elina and Eliza didn’t take the ridicule of their faction lightly, getting ready to retort.

However, before they could, Persephone’s head moved with alarming speed, snapping towards Michael.

She took a step forward.

"Hello, handsome." Persephone teased, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, hands clasped behind her back. She leaned forward, her eyes studying Michael’s face with curiosity.

Although Michael was just a Transcendent Lord, most had already been aware of his existence due to his display of might during the faction wars. It was safe to say that he fascinated Persephone to no end.

"Are you free after this? I have been dying to see if you are going to live up to the rumors or end up just another disappointment..."

She extended a finger, about to gently trace it over his muscular torso, only for a firm grip to take hold of her hand.

"What do you think you are doing?" Nicole’s voice was calmer than a lake, yet her question brought down the temperature in the room by several degrees.

"Hm?" Persephone blinked innocently, acting like she hadn’t noticed Nicole until now.

"I saw a snack and thought it would be exciting to have a taste of him." Persephone answered nonchalantly. "Or... could it be that you have your sights on him? If that is the case, how about you lend him to me for a night or two? It’s not good to be greedy."

Persephone redirected her gaze to Michael.

"Don’t worry, I will be gentle."

Nicole’s eyes sharpened.

’Why did I stop Persephone? It’s not like she showed any killing intent. Everyone knows she rarely takes interest in someone and usually loses attraction quickly anyway. Not to mention Michael is a grown man. He can choose who he spends his time with...’ Nicole pondered internally.

’No, no, no! It is better to be cautious. Michael is here because I invited him, and it is only right that I make sure he does not regret following me. There are no other motives!’

The two Supreme Lords were locked in a stalemate. Since the members of the Golden Vanguard were not present to mediate the tension, there was a possibility for the situation to escalate massively.

Michael let out a sigh.

"It’s your time to shine."

Instantly, Devil grinned, assuming his true form once more. The moment he did, Persephone tilted her head upward, her bottomless eyes narrowing at his towering frame.

A shiver traveled down her spine, carrying a strange sensation.

It wasn’t fear.

But excitement.

Devil’s presence was feral.

A primal instinct so thick it made most turn the other way in discomfort.

Persephone wouldn’t have it any other way.

"I have quite the busy schedule." Devil spoke calmly. "But if you behave, I might make some time for you at a later date."

To the surprise of others, Persephone seemed more than content, dropping the matter and returning to stand beside Noctis.

Michael shifted his gaze to Nicole, flashing her a warm smile.

"Thank you for the help." He chuckled in amusement.

Although he had never felt nervous during the entire encounter, he felt touched that she had protected him without a moment of hesitation.

"...Naturally." Nicole replied softly.

Once Michael wasn’t looking, she discreetly placed a hand over her erratically pounding heart, wondering what was wrong with her.

Fortunately, they didn’t wait long.

The Supreme Lords of the Golden Vanguard finally made their appearance.