Evolution begins with an ant colony

In the Frostgate Barrens, a few weeks back, the Leonheart Empire's territory extended into a vast expanse of icy wilderness. The sheer size of the territory was overwhelming. Towering ice-capped mountains loomed on the horizon, casting long shadows over the landscape.

Homes in Frostgate Barrens were sturdy structures crafted from the region's abundant natural resources. These dwellings, with their snow-covered rooftops, were designed to withstand the harsh winter winds that swept through the territory.

Cobblestone streets wound through the heart of the settlement, glistening with a thin layer of frost, and led to a central square that had an amazing statue of a legendary frost dragon.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the magic lamps lining the streets flickered to life, casting a warm glow. The inhabitants of Frostgate Barrens, a resilient community accustomed to the frigid climate, were gradually retiring for the night. Yet, not all was quiet. Some bars remained open, their inviting lights spilling onto the cobbled streets.

The Adventurer Guild, a active hub even after sundown, was filled with lively activity. Laughter and chatter filled the air as adventurers engaged in lively conversations over tankards of ale.

Through the guild's windows, one could see seasoned adventurers sharing tales of their exploits. The flickering light of a magic lamp danced on their faces as they recounted daring encounters with creatures in the frozen wilderness. The night was alive with the spirit of camaraderie.

Upon the frosted walls of the Frostgate Barrens, two guards, both suited in thick fur-lined armor, engaged in a lively chat. The first, named Roderick, a burly man with a bushy beard that seemed to collect small ice crystals, spoke with a playful grin, "Is it too much to ask for some action around here?"

His comrade, a younger guard named Aiden, chuckled, his breath visible in the cold air. "With temperatures like these, we'll get frostbite from just swinging our swords," he replied, emphasizing the biting cold with a mock shiver.

Their little chat continued as they discussed various topics, from the latest news in the Frostgate Barrens to the challenges of patrolling in the freezing cold. Amidst their conversation, Roderick's expression turned somewhat nostalgic. "It'll be my daughter's birthday soon," he mentioned, a twinkle of pride in his eyes.

Aiden congratulated him warmly, patting Roderick on the shoulder. "Well, you'll have to make sure it's a special one. Maybe a bit of warmth on a chilly day," he suggested, the conversation between the guards showcasing the bonds forged in the face of the Frostgate Barrens' harsh conditions.

Roderick sighed, his breath forming a visible mist in the cold air. "I'd love to make it special by getting her something, but I can't really find anything she would like in any of our stores. Mostly due to the fact the climate here is so bad it chases the merchants away, not allowing us to get that many luxuries."

Aiden, understanding the challenge, replied with a reassuring smile. "I know, right? But I'm sure she'll love whatever you get her. It's the thought that counts, after all. Maybe you can carve something for her, like a little keepsake. That would be unique."

Roderick's eyes lit up with the suggestion. "That's a great idea, Aiden. I'm not much of a craftsman, but I'll give it a shot. Something to remind her of home, even if it's the Frostgate Barrens."

In the still slience that followed their conversation, a sudden, horrifying event took place. Out of nowhere, a projectile tore through the air, piercing Roderick's skull and instantly shattering it. Blood splattered over the walls and Aiden, stood frozen with shock, witnessing the gruesome demise of his comrade.

Time seemed to slow down as Roderick's lifeless body fell to the floor, leaving a chilling silence in its wake.

Aiden's eyes widned with disbelief, in shock, fell to his knees next to Roderick's lifeless form. "No... No, this can't be happening," he mumbled, he couldn't believe his friend had just suddenly died like that.

Suddenly, an alarm sounded, cutting through the cold night air. The chilling sound indicated a serious situation – demons had breached the walls and were now invading the Frostgate Barrens.

Panic spread like wildfire as other guards rushed to their posts, loud sounds of footsteps could be heard as they headed to the broken part of the wall, and the once calm and secure territory descended into chaos.

Aiden was stuck, feeling torn between grief and the looming threat. He wasn't sure if he could just walk away from his dear friend's body and jump into battle, but duty was calling, so he had to step up. With gritted teeth, he got himself up, drew his sword, and joined the guards rushing to defend their home.

The frosty air now filled with the urgency of battle, and the previously peaceful Frostgate Barrens became a battleground against the demonic invasion.

As the massive dust cloud billowed into the air, obscuring the part of the wall that was destroyed, the soldiers tensed up, swords drawn and ready. They steeled themselves, preparing to face whatever emerged from the settling debris.

Breaking the silence, a voice cut through the air, "This is honestly my first time doing this, but I'm already feeling so excited." A woman suddenly appeared, her purple skin, black hair, and yellow eyes matching perfectly with her flowing blue, dark blue, and white robes. Complex black tattoos could be found all over her body, and a pair of white horns protruded from her forehead.

Unrecognizable at first, this woman was Emily, one of the fallen heroes turned demon.

The soldiers, now facing an unexpected adversary, eyed Emily with a mix of fear and caution. Her appearance marked a serious turn of events, and the once peaceful Frostgate Barrens were now the battleground between the defenders and a fallen hero corrupted by demonic influence.

As the realization dawned on the soldiers, a sense of urgency and seriousness filled the air, transforming the quiet territory into the forefront of a battle against the demonic invasion.