Hellbound Heart



Back in the Black Forest, Elle, Zeres, and Lilith gathered within the crystal cavern, where Elle continued her efforts to cure Iryz. The beautiful interior of the crystal cavern was suffused with a weak ethereal glow, but the crystals reflected and amplified the magical energy that filled the air.

That was the scene when Gav arrived. As soon as Gav's piercing gaze fell upon the two silver-haired individuals, Zeres and Lilith, his expression contorted with a mix of annoyance and discomfort. With a sigh, he shut his eyes tightly and pinched the bridge of his nose, as if battling against a growing headache.

"Could the two of you do something about your hair? Its color gives me headache," Gav spoke up, his voice commanding and laced with an air of authority.

Both Zeres and Lilith frowned, exchanging puzzled glances. Their expressions clouded with confusion at first, eventually turning offended. The silver hair that adorned their heads was not only a physical trait but also a symbol of reverence among witches—a mark of their power and status. For the witches, silver hair was the most exalted crown they could possess. That's why Gav's remark about their hair struck a chord deep within them.

With steely resolve, Lilith stepped forward, determined to address Gav's disrespectful comment. Her voice, calm yet firm, echoed in the cavern. "I am well aware of your tremendous and otherworldly power," Lilith stated, "but I, as the queen of witches, will not simply stand here and allow you to mock us like that." Her voice carried a quiet intensity, and her silver hair seemed to shimmer with renewed vibrancy—a sign of her power being triggered.

Gav parted his fingers, revealing a pair of mesmerizing grey eyes that shimmered with an enigmatic intensity. "Whoever said I am mocking anyone, huh, witch queen?"

Lilith's gaze narrowed. "Your words imply disdain and disrespect. I will not let such comments go unaddressed, regardless of your power."

Sensing the growing tension between the trio, Elle stepped in between them. "Please stop... This is not the time for you guys to be like this," she said before turning to Lilith and Zeres, whispering to them. "Please don't get triggered by him. I know he's being rude, but it's true that he couldn't look at silver hair without experiencing pain." Elle's words were a plea for understanding. Lilith and Zeres, surprised by this revelation, gradually eased their defensive postures, their expressions softening.

"Alright," Lilith relented, her voice holding a touch of understanding. "Zeres and I will withdraw to the other chamber for now. Just call us if you need assistance."

Elle nodded gratefully, appreciating their cooperation. 

"Let's go, Zeres," Lilith said, and with a final glance at Iryz, Zeres reluctantly tore his gaze away and followed Lilith. 

When the duo was out of sight, a sigh escaped Gav's lips. He ran his fingers through his dark hair, his attention now fully directed towards Elle.

"So, how's the progress?" Gav asked, his voice carrying a flat tone.

Elle's expression reflected her worry as she met his gaze. "Her breathing is slightly better now, but..." Elle bit her lip, "I'm afraid my healing is not working on her."

Gav approached Iryz, his face remaining impassive. He studied her for a moment before redirecting his attention to Elle. His words were blunt, devoid of any sentiment. "The issue lies not with your healing abilities but with you," he stated matter-of-factly.

Elle's eyes widened in surprise. "What do you mean?"

"I've mentioned this before, haven't I?" Gav spoke as though he was exasperated by the need to repeat himself. "You cannot expect your powers to function optimally when you exhaust your essence by using your powers to heal Zeke's woman. You're drained and in desperate need of rest."

"But Iryz is in danger... You were the one who said she needed help as soon as possible. I can't rest when she's–"

"She's not going to die yet," Gav cut her off. "You don't see any progress, but your power definitely helped her tonight."

Elle blinked at him before eventually nodding, relief flooding her being. The tension in her shoulders eased slightly, knowing that her efforts had not been in vain. She sank into a nearby chair, her weariness finally catching up to her. 

But a genuine smile filled graced her lips as she looked at Gav.

Her eyes shimmered with gratitude. Her hands, delicate and intertwined on her lap, conveyed the depth of her emotions. "I'm so grateful," she murmured softly. "Without your assistance and teachings, I would have remained a mere spectator, helpless and unable to make a difference."

Gav simply glanced at her, his expression inscrutable. 

And then without a word, he turned away to leave. But just as he crossed the threshold of the door, Elle's voice called out. "Where are you going?" she inquired, her steps quickening to catch up with him.

"Beats me," Gav replied without pausing. 

However, Elle didn't stop following him. And as she passed Lilith and Zeres, who had just emerged from the other chamber, Elle offered them a meaningful nod before continuing her pursuit of Gav.

Elle caught up with Gav at the entrance of the crystal cave, where they both came to an abrupt halt due to the unexpected duo that greeted them. Alexander and Sebastian were at the entrance and were about to enter.

Upon seeing Sebastian, Elle immediately rushed towards him. "Seb!" Elle exclaimed, relief flooding her voice as she ran towards him. In an instant, Sebastian, ever protective and possessive, enveloped her in a tight embrace. His hands cradled her face, searching for any signs of distress. His concerned gray eyes bore into hers as he spoke in a hushed voice.

"You look exhausted," Sebastian remarked in a low, worried voice.

Offering him a reassuring smile, she gently brushed her hand against his cheek. "I'm fine, Seb. I just need some rest. I promise I'll look better tomorrow after a good night's sleep."

He looked relieved, but he still appeared on the verge of whisking her away to tuck her in bed and watch over her until morning. As he hugged her tightly, Sebastian paid little mind to the presence of Alex and Gav, who stood nearby, until Alex spoke.

"Enough with the PDA, you two," Alex interjected playfully, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Go and bring Elle to the house to rest, Sebastian. I'll meet you at the entrance of the forest after I speak with Lilith."

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