Hellbound Heart

Meanwhile, Elle, who had overheard Alex and Lucas' conversation while her gaze was focused on Sebastian who was busy training himself to control his demonic magic, furrowed her brows in concern. She had recently discovered that the true power within Viscarria lay with the Reigns princes, and that King Rudy was merely a symbolic figurehead. Despite formal acknowledgments of Rudy's authority, the king himself understood his own limitations. He could issue orders, but if the princes rejected them, he lacked the authority to enforce them.

The intricacies of Viscarria's political system intrigued Elle, realizing that it differed significantly from the monarchies she had known. Everything about this country was unique, which was not really surprising given its citizens consisting of vampires and various supernatural beings. The country's politics were truly a reflection of its extraordinary nature.

As Elle contemplated the consequences of Elijah's successful takeover, she couldn't help but feel her worry grow. The possibility of a war between vampires and humans was something she couldn't even imagine. While fear didn't grip her, she was genuinely concerned about the uncertain path ahead. If such a conflict were to occur, it would definitely pit Viscarria against the rest of the world.

As the group discussed the situation, Alexander turned the topic to Kyle, inquiring about his whereabouts. Lucas hesitated for a moment before responding. "I heard he is in Queza."

Alex raised an eyebrow. "Where exactly in Queza? Don't tell me he's in the palace."

"I heard he went there himself, shortly after I left."

Alex looked at Lucas with disbelief before he sighed. "So he's now Elijah's captive—"

"Uh," Lucas hesitantly interrupted, looking like he really didn't want to be the one to tell Alex about this certain news but didn't have a choice. "I just actually received new information that Prince Kyle was seen next to Elijah, and it seems that he is not being held against his will."

What Lucas said sent shockwaves through everyone present, their eyes fixed on Lucas, astounded by the unexpected news. Kyle was the very last person who wasn't with them right now in the Black Forest that they would expect to side with Elijah in this situation!

Alex chuckled briefly, both amused and annoyed at Kyle's actions. "What on earth is that kid thinking now?"

"I'm not entirely sure either."

Alex clicked his tongue in annoyance. "Let's just hope the kid isn't planning something foolish. He's been quite elusive for the past ten years since Zeke left, so I'm not really confident now that Elijah cannot sway him."

Lucas's gaze shifted away from Alex before he changed the topic and inquired if there were any specific orders Alex wanted him to do or follow. Alex shook his head. "No, let's wait for Zeke's return. He'll be here shortly anyway."

Just as they were discussing their next course of action, Sebastian, who had quietly approached them, interjected. "Why don't we make the decision right now? Zeke shouldn't have to deal with this mess. He should focus solely on Alicia and Azy. My brother has shouldered the burden of maintaining peace for so long on his own; it's time he's not bothered by all of this."

Understanding Sebastian's sentiment, Alex responded, "I see your point, Sebastian. However, in matters like these, it's best to seek Zeke's opinion. We won't ask him to do more than that. Though, I won't stop him if he decides to take action himself. The benefit of involving Zeke is that it will save us valuable time in planning the best course of action. Besides, I have no doubt that Zeke already has a plan in mind. So why waste our time racking our brains?"

Sebastian could only look away, knowing that Alex's logic held true. Right now, Sebastian was even certain that his brother's very next action after Zeres' ritual was already set.

"Then help me insist that Zeke doesn't leave Black Forest, no matter what happens," Sebastian communicated to Alex through telepathy this time, his gaze determined. "I want him to focus solely on his family and not concern himself with the outside world. I will handle this mess. I want you to ensure he stays here, even if you have to use force, and let him spend time with his family."

Alex smiled in understanding, his eyes meeting Sebastian's. "Don't worry, I'm with you on that. This country and this world are no longer Zeke's sole responsibility. It's now our responsibility because we're the ones who are here."

...

In the quiet living room, Alicia and Azy were having their tender mother-son bond. As soon as Zeke left, Alicia had decided to be with Azy and spend every moment with him while she had the chance.

Azy and Alicia's favorite bonding moment was when Alicia was teaching Azy magic spells. So here they were, doing their favorite activity together while waiting for Zeke's return.

Azy had been an extraordinary witch. He had that innate command over his magic and possessed a unique ability that surpassed even Alicia's proudest dreams. Though Alicia could not wield magic herself due to her state, her knowledge as a former queen of witches remained intact, allowing her to guide Azy with unparalleled wisdom. She had taught Azy everything she knew he would need.

But today, she was going to teach him something different. A high-level magic—one that she had saved for last.

Sitting cross-legged on the floor, Alicia and Azy faced each other, meeting Azy's bright, determined eyes.

"My dear Azy," Alicia began, her voice filled with tender warmth, "today, I will teach you a spell that has been passed down through generations of witches. Are you ready?"

Azy's face lit up with eager anticipation. "Yes, Mom! I'm ready to learn!"

Alicia smiled, her heart swelling. Though she couldn't force away the sorrow gnawing inside her, she was filled with gratitude and happiness in this moment, knowing she could still have this time with him.

Taking Azy's hands into her own, feeling the magic that pulsed through him, Alicia began.

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