Hellbound Heart



Azy struggled to maintain his composure, even as his dark magic continued to pulse out of him. His concern for his mother's well-being was undeniable as he pleaded, "But Dad... it's starting again... Mom... can you take her with you? I'm afraid she will..."

"No, don't worry. She won't be affected this time," Zeke assured, placing his palm gently over Azy's eyes.

Silence reigned as everyone observed in awe. Azy's rampant magic gradually dissipated, settling into a state of calm. It appeared almost effortless, as if Zeke's simple act of covering his son's eyes had brought about absolute control. They knew it involved his demonic magic, but Zeke executed it with such ease that it seemed like he wasn't doing anything amazing at all.

Azy's surprise and awe were unmistakable as he felt the calmness wash over him, thanks to his father's intervention. "Thanks, Dad, that was... amazing!"

Zeke couldn't help but smile gently at the admiration and pride reflected in his son's eyes.

"Stay with your mom, alright, Azy?" Zeke straightened, placing his palm on his son's head.

Azy responded eagerly, "Yes, Dad!"

With that, Zeke ruffled Azy's head gently before turning to face Alicia. Leaning in, he planted a tender kiss on her forehead and whispered softly in her ear, "I'll be back... babe."

The impact of Zeke's whisper, coupled with the touch of his warm breath against her ear, sent an electric surge through Alicia's veins. It rendered her momentarily speechless, and all she could manage was a reluctant nod as she watched her beloved disappear once again. But this time, she held unwavering certainty in her heart that he would return soon.

"Mom? Are you okay?" Azy's concerned voice broke through Alicia's reverie as he looked at her intently.

Alicia, now aware of her reddened face, felt a deeper shade of embarrassment flood her cheeks. She gathered herself and mustered a smile for her son. "I'm fine, Azy."

His worry persisting, Azy continued, "Are you sure? Your face looks reddish."

Realizing what her son had noticed, Alicia's embarrassment intensified, causing her face to turn even redder. "I'm just... blushing. Don't worry about it," she replied, attempting to brush off his concern with an awkward smile.

...

As Zeke and Gav materialized in the designated ritual location, Gav couldn't help but question Zeke's certainty. "Are you certain about this, Zeke?"

Without a moment's hesitation, Zeke responded firmly, leaving Gav with a sigh of resignation. "Yes," he affirmed, unwavering in his decision.

"You know what kind of trouble awaits us once we return if we stay here for too long."

But Zeke's decision remained unshaken. "Archer and Ruka are more than capable of holding their ground in our absence. I had already given them instructions in advance, anticipating a situation like this."

Gav stared at Zeke in astonishment, momentarily speechless. "Bloody hell, Zeke. Not only do you know we would be summoned, but you also anticipated that we would stay here for an extended period of time?"

Zeke's gaze remained focused, his face expressionless once again. "I am aware of the possibilities. I possess knowledge of everyone's abilities in this world, allowing me to calculate events that could possibly happen and make the necessary preparations as well."

Shaking his head, Gav remarked in a mixture of disbelief and resignation, "Well, why am I still surprised at this point, considering all the crazy things you've done?"

Zeke offered no response, his attention fixed on Zeres, who was nearing the completion of the ritual preparations.

"How many days do you think we'll stay?" Gav asked. "If you ask me, no more than two days. If we exceed that timeframe, no matter how well you've prepared, I don't believe Ruka can hold on."

When Zeke still remained silent, Gav resigned. He knew that particular look Zeke was wearing right now. That was what Zeke looked like when he's fully engaged in his mental simulations and preparations, envisioning countless scenarios and formulating intricate strategies in his mind. And he knew it was better not to disturb him because in this state, Zeke was as unresponsive as a stone.

...

Lucas finally joined the group gathered in front of Alicia's house. He was a little disappointed when he couldn't see the man he was expecting to see, but when he sensed his presence, he relaxed. Because although he couldn't see him, Lucas was certain he was there in the Black Forest. He didn't ask about him, though, because everyone was there.

After exchanging greetings with Alicia and Azy, he swiftly approached Alexander, aware that he was already well-informed about the latest developments.

"Sir," Lucas reported. "I have handed over the unconscious individuals to the witches. They are now imprisoned in the underground cells. Shall I proceed with the interrogation?"

"According to Elle, those individuals were talking about werewolves," Alex informed Lucas. "It seems to me that they pose another problem unrelated to Elijah's current agenda. So I believe we should prioritize dealing with the more dangerous issue at hand for now. Those little rats can wait."

"Yes, sir," Lucas immediately agreed, understanding the need to focus on the biggest and most urgent threat. "I have just received news that Elijah has successfully seized control of everything. It appears that the prophetess and the king did not attempt any resistance and simply acquiesced to Elijah's demands."

"It was a wise move on Rudy's part," Alex said. "He knew he lacked the true power to oppose Elijah effectively. And he might just unnecessarily risk losing his life if he tries to go against Elijah. However, the prophetess's actions and intentions remain unclear to me."

A flicker of curiosity colored Lucas's words. "Are you..." he paused, hesitating. "...doubting the prophetess' loyalty?"

Alex sighed. "Well, I've never been fond of her or any of the previous prophetesses, as you know. They can be quite bothersome and I honestly think their prophesies aren't really that needed in this era anymore. Perhaps, they're quite useful in the past but now... time and things has changed. I've always wondered how Zeke managed to handle them so effectively."