Chapter Text
Jazz and Lied exchange wary glances as they follow Kerori and Sabnock into the bustling shopping district, each of them acutely aware of what they’re in for. Kerori, brimming with excitement, leads the way, practically skipping as she pulls them from one store to the next. Her eyes sparkle with enthusiasm, and she wastes no time diving into the racks, eager to upgrade everyone’s wardrobes.
Jazz gives a dramatic groan, rubbing the back of his neck as they approach a large storefront glinting with endless rows of clothing. “Shopping, huh? Yeah, of course,” he mutters under his breath, throwing a weary glance at Lied. “Guess this was inevitable.”
Lied lets out a long sigh, shooting Jazz a look of shared suffering. “At least try to look excited. Kerori’s on a mission,” he whispers, his voice laced with resigned amusement. But his face, despite his best efforts, is drawn into a grimace as he watches Kerori enthusiastically dart from rack to rack.
Sabnock, however, is less discreet with his annoyance, crossing his arms over his chest with a scowl. “Clothes shopping? Really? We’re warriors! We should be training, not…” He gestures helplessly at the racks of clothes. “Not… whatever this is.” He looks over at Jazz, hoping for some support, but Jazz just shrugs, clearly surrendering to their fate.
Kerori, overhearing, flashes Sabnock a look of mild exasperation, though her eyes sparkle with amusement. “Training isn’t everything, Sabnock! Appearance matters too, you know. A true leader commands respect not just with strength, but with presence. Besides,” she adds, her tone bright, “you all could use a bit of a refresh.” She tilts her head, giving them a once-over with a playful smirk. “Trust me.”
Jazz can’t help but chuckle at Kerori’s enthusiasm, nudging Sabnock as he leans in. “Looks like we’re stuck, big guy. Might as well go along with it.”
Sabnock lets out an exaggerated sigh, but he reluctantly nods, muttering, “Fine, but if she tries to put me in something ridiculous again, I’m leaving.”
Kerori doesn’t waste any time, her eyes lighting up as she pulls out a shirt with a bold print and holds it up in front of Jazz. “This would look great on you!” she declares, already moving to hold it up to his frame. Jazz’s eyes widen, his usual confidence momentarily faltering.
“Kerori, that’s… a lot,” he says, taking a small step back, though he can’t help but smile at her determination. He reaches up, rubbing the back of his neck with a faintly embarrassed chuckle. “Maybe something… simpler?”
Kerori just grins, undeterred. “Oh, come on, Jazz! Try something new.” She thrusts the shirt toward him, giving him an expectant look that leaves no room for argument. With a resigned sigh, Jazz takes the shirt, holding it up with a skeptical glance, but a tiny, reluctant smile sneaks onto his face as he catches her approving nod.
Meanwhile, Lied stands awkwardly by a rack of jackets, watching the scene unfold with a pained expression. Every so often, he glances over at Sabnock, who has slouched further into his usual scowl. Lied picks up a plain hoodie, holding it in front of himself with a helpless shrug. “Maybe this?” he mutters to no one in particular.
Kerori is quick to notice, practically swooping over to him with a disapproving look. “Oh no, Lied! We’re stepping up your game today. Something with more flair,” she says, her voice cheerful but firm as she grabs a jacket with elaborate detailing and holds it out to him. “This is more your speed. Go on—try it!”
Lied hesitates, his face scrunched in distaste, but he throws a look at Jazz and sighs, clearly resigning himself to the shopping marathon. “Fine,” he mutters, slipping into the jacket, though he’s careful not to look at his reflection too long, his face coloring faintly.
Jazz, noticing Lied’s discomfort, sidles over, clapping him on the back with a smirk. “Looking sharp, Lied,” he says with a grin, his tone just teasing enough to lighten the mood. “Kerori’s got an eye for this stuff, don’t worry.”
Sabnock, meanwhile, has been handed a heavy, decorated coat by Kerori, who beams up at him expectantly. He holds it up with a grimace, muttering, “If anyone asks, I didn’t choose this.”
Kerori raises an eyebrow, crossing her arms with a challenging smile. “Come on, Sabnock. You always talk about making an impact, don’t you? This will make you look like a true leader.” She holds his gaze, waiting, and after a beat, Sabnock sighs, rolling his eyes as he finally tries on the coat.
Jazz leans over, laughing as he takes in Sabnock’s look. “Now you just need a throne to go with it,” he teases, earning an unamused glare from Sabnock, who straightens the coat with an exasperated grunt.
“Laugh it up, Jazz,” Sabnock grumbles, his eyes narrowing, though there’s a spark of amusement hidden behind his scowl. “Let’s see how you look in that bright pink shirt Kerori’s eyeing for you.”
Jazz’s eyes widen, and he shoots Kerori a pleading look. “Please, Kerori, tell me you’re not serious about that one…”
Kerori, barely containing her laughter, pats Jazz on the shoulder. “Relax, Jazz. But we might just find something that pushes you out of your comfort zone.” She winks, her playful gaze bouncing between each of the boys as she ushers them toward the changing rooms.
Lied sighs, his face a mixture of resignation and slight amusement. “This is torture,” he mutters, but he can’t help the small smile creeping onto his face as he glances at his friends.
As the afternoon wears on, Jazz finds himself slipping into old habits. Amid the bustling crowd and the clamor of the shopping district, his hands move as if on autopilot, fingers darting in and out of pockets and shelves with practiced ease. He slides his hand into a display basket, palming a small trinket—a charm with a glittering stone that catches the light perfectly. He flicks it into his pocket, a satisfied smirk tugging at his lips as he slides back into the crowd.
But just as he thinks he’s gotten away with it, a familiar, amused voice calls out from behind him. “Jazz, I saw that,” Kerori says, folding her arms and tilting her head with a knowing smile. Her tone is soft, almost playful, but there’s a glimmer of disapproval in her eyes.
Jazz turns, slipping the charm from his pocket and holding it up with a grin. “Come on, Kerori,” he says, dangling the charm in front of her. “It’s harmless. Just a little souvenir. Besides, we’re demons, aren’t we? This is practically tradition.” He flashes her an unapologetic smirk, though he knows she’s not actually upset.
Kerori narrows her eyes at him, trying to look stern, but a smile tugs at the corner of her mouth. “Tradition or not, it’s still technically stealing,” she counters, though there’s a teasing lilt to her voice. “And you’re better than that, Jazz.”
Jazz sighs dramatically, slipping the charm back into the display with an exaggerated frown. “Fine, fine,” he mutters, holding his hands up in surrender, though his grin never fades. “You’re no fun, you know that?”
Kerori rolls her eyes, giving him a gentle shove. “Someone has to keep you in line, or who knows what you’d get up to?” She glances over at Sabnock and Lied, who are watching the exchange with varying degrees of exasperation.
Sabnock shakes his head, crossing his arms over his chest as he watches Jazz with a bemused smirk. “Honestly, you’re supposed to be a thief, but you’re not even subtle. At this rate, the whole district’s going to know what you’re up to.”
Lied snickers, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah, you’d think the ‘Great Jazz’ would have learned a little discretion by now. Or maybe you just like getting caught,” he teases, his eyes glinting with amusement.
Jazz scoffs, feigning offense. “Hey, I’m plenty subtle. Kerori’s just too sharp for her own good.” He shoots a playful wink at Kerori, who only rolls her eyes, though a faint blush colors her cheeks.
“Oh, please,” she says with a laugh, flipping her hair over her shoulder as she gives him a teasing look. “You couldn’t fool a first-year with those moves.” She pokes him in the side, and Jazz flinches, laughing as he steps back.
The others laugh, the lightheartedness easing the lingering tension from their earlier shopping ordeal. For a moment, everything feels easy, as if they’re just a group of friends enjoying an ordinary day out. Jazz watches the others as they laugh, feeling a strange warmth settle in his chest, a contentment he rarely feels. It’s a rare thing for demons to feel this kind of camaraderie, this closeness.
Sabnock, watching Jazz with an amused smirk, steps up beside him. “So, are you done with your little games, or are you going to keep testing Kerori’s patience?” he mutters, his voice low but filled with amusement.
Jazz just shrugs, his grin widening. “Hey, it’s all in good fun. Besides, she secretly loves it,” he says, nudging Sabnock with his elbow. Sabnock chuckles, shaking his head as he gives Jazz a knowing look.
“You’re lucky she finds it amusing. Most would’ve smacked you by now,” Sabnock replies, though there’s a hint of approval in his voice, as if he’s come to appreciate Jazz’s antics despite himself.
Lied snorts, overhearing them. “Just wait—one day, Kerori’s going to catch you in a way you can’t charm your way out of,” he says, crossing his arms with a smirk.
Kerori hears this, and she raises an eyebrow, crossing her own arms as she meets Jazz’s gaze with a challenging glint in her eyes. “You know, Lied might be onto something,” she says, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “One of these days, Jazz, you’re going to get caught, and when that happens, I’ll be the first to laugh.”
Jazz raises his hands in mock horror. “Oh no, my worst nightmare! Kerori laughing at my expense!” He clutches his heart dramatically, his voice dripping with playful sarcasm, though the twinkle in his eyes betrays his enjoyment of the banter.
Kerori’s lips twitch with a barely suppressed smile, and she shakes her head. “Fine, keep acting innocent. Just don’t drag us into any trouble, alright?”
The group finally leaves the store and moves down the street, each of them caught up in their own lighthearted conversations, the earlier tension completely washed away by the laughter and camaraderie. It’s rare for them to have this kind of break, to just be themselves without the weight of expectations or looming dangers. And for once, they’re content to enjoy the simplicity of it.
As they walk, Sabnock slows his pace, falling in step beside Lied. He nudges him with his elbow, glancing over at Jazz and Kerori ahead of them. “Think they’ll keep bickering the whole day?” he mutters, though there’s a hint of fondness in his voice.
Lied grins, shrugging. “Probably. Those two have some weird dynamic. But hey, it keeps things interesting.”
Sabnock chuckles, watching as Jazz gives Kerori an exaggerated bow before darting ahead with a playful smirk. Kerori rolls her eyes but follows, a hint of a smile on her lips. For a moment, Sabnock and Lied share a glance, an unspoken understanding passing between them. They’ve all been through so much together, but it’s these small moments—the laughter, the bickering, the shared glances—that make everything worth it.
They continue down the bustling street, each of them caught up in their own conversations, their laughter mingling with the noise of the crowd. It’s a rare day in the Netherworld, a day where they’re not training or preparing for the next big threat. They’re just themselves, a group of friends wandering through the chaos of the world they’ve come to know.
As they pass by another shop, Jazz catches a glimpse of a small, intricate pendant in the window—a tiny amulet, simple but somehow striking. He pauses, glancing back at the others, then steps toward the window for a closer look. There’s something oddly familiar about it, though he can’t quite place why. He feels a strange pull, a faint curiosity that tugs at him.
Kerori notices him lingering and steps over, peering over his shoulder. “See something you like?” she asks, her tone soft, curious.
Jazz shrugs, trying to play it cool, though he can’t hide the interest in his gaze. “I dunno… something about it just caught my eye.” He reaches out, tracing his fingers over the glass, and for a moment, he feels a strange, almost nostalgic warmth.
Kerori watches him, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Well, maybe it’s a sign. Go on, get it. Consider it a reward for behaving today.” Her tone is teasing, but there’s a gentle warmth in her voice, an unspoken encouragement that Jazz can’t help but appreciate.
He grins, reaching for his pocket, though there’s a sheepish look in his eyes. “Alright, alright. You’re not making me buy it just to keep me in line, are you?”
Kerori laughs, nudging him lightly. “Think of it as a reminder. Every time you look at it, remember to stay out of trouble. Or at least try.”
Jazz chuckles, feeling an unexpected wave of gratitude. “Fine, if it keeps you from scolding me next time, I’ll get it.” He turns back to the shopkeeper, and within moments, he has the amulet in his hand, its weight comforting, solid.
Kerori links her arm with Jazz’s as they make it out of the store, and though he tries to look nonchalant, there’s a faint blush on his cheeks, his fingers curling protectively around the amulet in his pocket. Sabnock and Lied meet them outside, Sabnock growling seeing his Omega in the arms of another Alpha and Lied pouting at his Alpha linking arms with another Omega. Kerori giggled, leaving Jazz’s side to kiss Sabnock, Lied jumping to claim back his mate.
With their arms full of shopping bags, the group makes their way to Lied’s favorite store: a bustling game shop nestled between a café and a potion supply store. Lied, practically vibrating with excitement, leads the way, glancing back at the others with a wide, barely contained grin. He’s been waiting to introduce them to his world, and this is his chance.
Kerori raises an eyebrow as she peers through the store’s large, neon-lit windows, filled with shelves upon shelves of games and displays for the latest releases. “So, this is where you hang out, Lied?” she asks, looking both curious and slightly amused as she watches him dart around with childlike enthusiasm.
Lied nods vigorously, his grin widening as he clutches one of the display game cases. “Yeah! This place is practically my second home. I’ve been coming here since… well, forever,” he says, his voice filled with pride. “They’ve got everything! New releases, classic games, rare collectibles—this is where you find it all.” His gaze darts around the shelves, his fingers twitching as if eager to pick up and show off every game he sees.
Jazz, strolling beside him with an amused smirk, raises an eyebrow. “Wow, Lied, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this excited,” he says, watching as Lied flits from display to display, explaining the mechanics of different games with rapid-fire enthusiasm. “You’ve got quite the tour guide energy going on.”
“Jazz, you don’t get it,” Lied replies with wide eyes, his tone as serious as if he were discussing a battle plan. “This is where the real action happens.” He points to a shelf lined with the latest games, his expression lighting up as he pulls a brightly colored case from the row. “See this one? This is Dragon Quest of the Demonic Isles. It’s the game everyone in the club has been raving about for months. We’ve got epic quests, wild battles, rare treasures—this is pure magic!”
Jazz chuckles, reaching out to examine the case with mild curiosity. “Huh. I guess it’s like a strategy thing?” he asks, genuinely interested but feeling slightly out of his depth as he looks at the intricate artwork on the cover.
Lied nods enthusiastically, launching into a lengthy explanation about the game’s mechanics, his hands gesturing wildly as he describes each feature. “It’s all about tactics and teaming up to take down the big bosses! You need strategy, teamwork, and… well, a bit of luck. But once you’re in, it’s like you’re actually there. It’s amazing.” His voice is reverent, his excitement infectious.
Sabnock, who’s been standing with his arms full of shopping bags that Kerori had dumped on him earlier, watches with raised eyebrows, trying to keep his impatience under control. “Sounds… intense,” he mutters, glancing at Kerori with an exasperated look. “If he buys any more games, I’ll be carrying a mountain of cartridges, won’t I?”
Kerori giggles, patting Sabnock on the arm. “Just think of it as training, Sabnock. A good leader should be prepared for any task, even if it involves carrying a hundred game cases,” she teases, her voice light, and Sabnock lets out a huff, though he can’t hide the faint smirk on his face.
Lied, oblivious to Sabnock’s plight, moves to another section of the store where a plushie display catches his eye. “Oh, and this is new!” he says, holding up a soft, stuffed creature from his favorite game series. The plush has wide, glittering eyes and tiny wings, looking equal parts adorable and fierce.
Jazz raises an eyebrow, amused. “Really? A plushie, Lied?” he says, though his tone is fond as he watches Lied’s eyes light up at the sight of the creature.
Lied clutches the plushie, giving it an affectionate squeeze. “Hey, don’t judge! It’s limited edition. Besides, even warriors have soft spots,” he says, holding the plushie close as if it were a rare treasure. He looks over at Jazz, his eyes bright with excitement. “And if I ever need a partner in my game campaigns, this little guy’s got my back.”
Jazz shakes his head, chuckling. “Alright, alright. Guess every hero needs a sidekick,” he says, reaching for the plushie. Without hesitation, he hands it to the cashier, adding it to his purchase along with the new game. Lied’s eyes go wide with surprise, a blush creeping over his cheeks as he realizes what Jazz is doing.
“Wait… Jazz, you don’t have to—” Lied starts, but Jazz waves a hand, looking away as if it’s no big deal.
“Consider it a token of… I don’t know, alpha-mate loyalty or something,” Jazz says, trying to play it cool, though there’s a faint blush on his face. “Plus, if it keeps you from dragging us back here every week, it’s worth it.”
Lied stares at him, his mouth slightly open, before breaking into a huge grin. Without warning, he hugs Jazz tightly, squishing the plushie between them. “Jazz! This is the best day ever!” he exclaims, kissing him on the cheek with a loud smack. Jazz stiffens, his eyes wide with surprise, his face turning an unmistakable shade of red as Lied pulls back, still grinning.
“Whoa—uh, you’re welcome,” Jazz mutters, rubbing the back of his neck, his usual confidence momentarily faltering as he gives a sheepish smile. Sabnock and Kerori watch the exchange, each of them stifling laughter as they catch Jazz’s embarrassed expression.
Kerori raises an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eyes as she nudges Jazz. “Didn’t know you were the romantic type, Jazz,” she teases, and Jazz gives her a look that’s equal parts exasperation and mortification.
“Please. Don’t make it weird, Kerori,” he says, though he can’t help the grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. Lied, still hugging the plushie, looks at him with a mix of gratitude and joy, and Jazz realizes he doesn’t mind the attention, at least not today.
With their purchases in hand, they finally exit the store, Lied skipping slightly as he cradles the new game and plushie like precious treasures. The group moves down the street, the sky tinged with the warm colors of late afternoon, each of them caught up in the comfortable silence that only true friends can share.
Sabnock, balancing the bags on his arms, glances over at Lied, smirking. “So, you got your game and your little… whatever that is,” he says, nodding at the plushie. “Does that mean we’re free now, or are there more hidden ‘favorites’ we don’t know about?”
Lied laughs, hugging the plushie closer as he grins back at Sabnock. “Relax, Sabnock. I’m good. This little guy’s all I need,” he says, glancing fondly at Jazz with a playful wink. “And, you know, maybe a round of this game later with my loyal alpha-mate here.”
Jazz sighs, though there’s a fond smile on his face as he meets Lied’s gaze. “Sure, why not? Just don’t expect me to actually be good at it,” he says, but his eyes are warm, a soft look hidden in his gaze.
Kerori, walking just ahead, turns back with a bright smile, watching the group with a quiet sense of satisfaction. For all their bickering, their banter, there’s a deep bond here, a friendship that goes beyond shared interests or loyalties. It’s a bond built on mutual respect, on trust, on countless shared memories, and Kerori feels a warm pride in being part of it.
They make their way towards a cozy café. The smell of fresh pastries and rich coffee fills the air, and for a second, it almost feels like they’re just ordinary students. They claim a corner booth by the window, and Kerori quickly takes the lead in ordering an assortment of sweets—cakes, tarts, fluffy cream puffs, and steaming mugs of rich, dark chocolate. She insists on a slice of every cake they have, arguing that they deserve a treat after surviving the shopping marathon.
Jazz leans back in the booth, crossing his arms with a grin. “So, this is what success feels like,” he quips, reaching out to take a bite of the chocolate tart in front of him. “Almost makes the torture of trying on twenty different outfits worth it.”
Kerori laughs, slicing into her cake with dainty precision. “Admit it, Jazz. You looked great in every single one of them.” She winks, her teasing tone managing to break some of the tension that had been lingering around them.
As they dig into the desserts, the laughter and lighthearted teasing continue, each of them allowing themselves to savor this brief, rare moment of normalcy. But soon, the comfortable silence stretches too far, and as the plates begin to empty, an unmistakable heaviness starts to settle over them again, like an unspoken shadow lurking in the back of their minds.
Kerori glances around the table, her gaze thoughtful, and clears her throat, breaking the quiet. “So… there’s something we need to talk about. Things have been different lately. You all noticed how students are starting to watch us more closely?”
Jazz’s expression shifts, the lightness leaving his eyes as he nods, his jaw setting. “Yeah. Ever since that day in the courtyard… Iruma’s reaction was justified, but it left an impression. It’s like everyone realized we’re not just the ‘weird kids’ anymore.”
Sabnock grunts, his brow furrowing. “They were bound to figure it out eventually. But Iruma’s outburst sped things up, no doubt. Every time we walk through the hall, it feels like someone’s eyes are on us.”
Lied, who had been quietly stirring his drink, raises his eyes, his expression more serious than usual. “And it’s not just about Iruma. It’s all of us. People are starting to notice that we’ve been… different. The usual routine isn’t fooling anyone for much longer. They see us training harder, whispering, keeping to ourselves. They might not know what’s going on, but they know something’s off.”
The group falls silent, each of them processing Lied’s words. It’s true; they’ve all felt it—that gradual shift in how the other students view them, the lingering glances, the whispers in the halls. What had once been mild curiosity has morphed into something more potent, more suspicious, and now it’s like they’re under a constant invisible scrutiny.
Kerori glances down at her cup, her fingers lightly tracing the rim before she takes a deep breath and looks up, a determined glint in her eyes. “Elizabetta and I have been working on a plan to… manage this,” she says carefully, her voice low. “We can’t exactly stop people from noticing, but we can give them something else to focus on.”
Sabnock raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Something like what?”
Kerori’s gaze sharpens, a hint of her cunning side surfacing. “Distractions. We’re considering organizing a few school-wide events, some silly contests… and I might plant a rumor or two. We need to control the narrative. If they’re occupied with something exciting, maybe even scandalous, they’ll pay less attention to us.”
Jazz’s lips curl into a smirk, impressed. “Leave it to you two to turn gossip into a weapon,” he says, nodding approvingly. “I’ll admit, it’s a solid plan. People love a good rumor more than anything.”
Kerori smiles, though her eyes remain serious. “Exactly. We can’t take our focus off the real issues, but if we can take the students’ eyes off us for a little while, we can at least breathe easier. We’ll keep our profiles low and let the distraction run its course.”
Lied’s eyes brighten a bit, a flicker of relief in his gaze. “So… if this works, we don’t have to keep pretending everything’s normal when it’s clearly not.” He lets out a long breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly. “Maybe people will even stop whispering every time we walk by.”
Jazz nods, tapping his fingers against his mug thoughtfully. “But even with the distraction, it won’t last forever. Eventually, someone will connect the dots. We’ll have to be prepared for that.”
Sabnock clenches his fist, his expression resolute. “If anyone tries to dig too deep, we handle it. They can talk all they want, but they won’t get past us.” His words are sharp, filled with that fierce loyalty he always carries, and it brings a reassuring calm to the group.
Kerori looks around at each of them, a quiet confidence in her gaze. “We’ll do whatever it takes to protect what we have, even if it means playing the game differently. If anyone knows how to navigate the complexities of demon society, it’s us. We’re all well-versed in… well, in the absurd, aren’t we?”
They all laugh, the truth of her words cutting through the tension. They’ve all adapted to the strange chaos of the Netherworld, each of them used to the layers of deception, of unwritten rules and hidden agendas. But even so, the idea of being forced to constantly maintain a false front, of keeping everyone else’s curiosity at bay, weighs heavily on them.
Jazz reaches over, tapping his knuckles lightly on the table to catch their attention. “Kerori… you and Elizabetta are amazing for even trying to pull this off. Whatever you need from us, just say the word.” His tone is sincere, a rare softness in his usually laid-back demeanor. “We’ll make it work.”
Kerori nods, her gaze warm. “Thank you, Jazz. We’re all in this together. And don’t worry, we’ll make sure our distractions are… memorable.” A mischievous spark flickers in her eyes, and the others can’t help but grin at the hint of her playful plotting.
Sabnock leans back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Just make sure whatever you come up with is big. We can’t do this halfway.” He smirks, his competitive spirit shining through. “If we’re going to distract them, let’s make it something they’ll never forget.”
Lied chuckles, the tension easing from his shoulders. “Honestly, that sounds like the perfect plan. If we’re going to be the center of attention, might as well go all out.”
The warm camaraderie in the café fades as the conversation drifts to Sabnock’s family. His usually confident and fiery expression dims, his gaze drifting to his half-empty cup. He takes a slow sip, as if hoping the taste will keep his mind occupied, but nothing seems to shake the cloud that settles over his features.
Kerori, sitting beside him, notices the change immediately. She reaches over and places a gentle hand on his arm, her eyes soft with understanding. “Sabnock,” she says quietly, her tone inviting him to share, though she doesn’t push. She knows better than to force anything out of him. For someone like Sabnock, silence was often safer than words.
Sabnock lets out a slow breath, his usual fierceness tempered by an unfamiliar vulnerability. “It’s… my father,” he begins, his voice rougher than usual. “I know you all know how he is—how his influence stretches. He’s been connected to Baal for years, and it only gets deeper the more I think about it. Baal’s… he’s not just some distant figure anymore. He’s breathing down our necks, watching us. And if my father’s involved…” He trails off, his fists clenching on the table.
Jazz leans forward, his brow furrowing. “That’s a lot to carry on your own, Sabnock. I can’t even imagine what it’s like, having someone like that for a father,” he says, his tone soft and genuine, lacking his usual teasing edge. “You know, if there’s anything you need…”
Sabnock nods, a ghost of a smile crossing his face. “I know, Jazz. And believe me, I’ll ask if it comes to that. But right now, I’m just… relieved. Relieved that my sister is here with the pack, safe from all of it. Away from him.” His voice drops, and he glances around the table, his expression filled with a rare, raw honesty. “I don’t know what I’d do if he ever got his hands on her. Or if he dragged my brother into all this.”
Lied shifts uncomfortably, watching Sabnock with a mix of sympathy and a hint of helplessness. Lied may joke about Sabnock’s seriousness, but he’s always respected his strength—and seeing him this vulnerable is jarring. “Your sister’s safe with us, Sabnock,” Lied says, his voice low but firm. “We’ll protect her. You know that, right?”
Sabnock nods, though his gaze is distant. “I know. But it’s hard to shake the worry. It’s like… even with her safe, there’s this constant weight. Like I’m always waiting for the other shoe to drop.” His hands clench and unclench, betraying the tension he’s holding back. “My father… I do not know what is going on in his head, and his connection to Baal makes him dangerous. I don’t know what they’re planning, but I know it can’t be good. And I can’t just sit around and wait for it to come crashing down on us.”
Kerori’s hand tightens on his arm, her own expression darkening with understanding. “Sabnock, you’re not alone in this. We’re with you, no matter what. If Baal or your father ever try anything, they’ll have to go through all of us.” Her voice is soft, but there’s a hard edge to it, a determination that fills the air with a shared resolve.
Sabnock glances up at her, his eyes softening, and he nods, visibly grounding himself in her words. “Thanks, Kerori,” he says, his voice almost a whisper. “I… don’t say it often, but I really am grateful for all of you. I don’t know how I’d handle any of this alone.” He lets out a shaky breath, a rare, unguarded moment slipping through.
Jazz gives him a supportive nudge, his smile gentle. “You don’t have to go it alone. None of us do. We’re in this together, for better or worse.”
Sabnock manages a small, grateful smile. “It means a lot. Really.”
There’s a pause as each of them absorbs the weight of his words, a quiet understanding settling over the table. For all their individual strengths and ambitions, they know that they’re strongest together. The weight of Sabnock’s family troubles isn’t his alone; it’s a burden they’ll share, each of them ready to stand between him and whatever threat looms on the horizon.
Lied leans back, letting out a sigh as he pushes his empty plate away. “So, what’s our next move?” he asks, glancing around the table. “I mean, if we’re talking about Baal and all the stuff going on with the Thirteen Crowns… we’re going to need more than rumors and distractions. We need a way to keep track of him.”
Jazz nods, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “Yeah. We can’t just wait around and hope he doesn’t make a move. We need information. Connections.” He glances at Sabnock, his expression serious. “Your father’s close with Baal… is there anything you know that might help us stay a step ahead?”
Sabnock considers this, his jaw tightening. “I can’t say I know much about their plans specifically, but I know enough to say this: Baal wants power, and he’ll do whatever it takes to get it. He’s been maneuvering for years, using alliances, threats… manipulation.” Sabnock’s eyes darken, a flicker of anger flashing across his face. “My father’s a pawn to him, even if I was too blind to see it until recently.”
Kerori lets out a low hum, thoughtful. “Then maybe it’s time to give Baal a taste of his own strategy. If he’s using others to keep tabs on us, maybe we should try to get eyes on him, too.” She raises an eyebrow, a glint of mischief in her eyes. “The best way to understand an enemy is to watch them.”
Jazz grins, leaning forward with a conspiratorial look. “I like the way you think, Kerori. It’s risky, but… if we can find a way to get close to Baal, we might be able to get the upper hand for once.”
Lied, clearly intrigued, taps his chin thoughtfully. “It wouldn’t be easy, but if we could plant someone close enough… maybe even get some rumors spread back in his direction… we might be able to throw him off balance.”
Sabnock nods, his expression resolute. “I’ll do it. If anyone’s going to get close, it should be me. I know how he operates, and he wouldn’t suspect it if it’s his own son. I can find a way to get inside his circle.”
Kerori’s eyes widen slightly, her grip on his arm tightening in alarm. “Sabnock, no. That’s too dangerous. You’ve already had to endure enough of his influence. Don’t throw yourself back into that if you don’t have to.”
Sabnock’s expression softens as he looks at her, and he places his hand over hers reassuringly. “I appreciate it, Kerori. Really. But this is my family. If I don’t do this, I’ll never be able to live with myself. Besides…” His gaze shifts to Jazz, Lied, and then back to Kerori, a fierce determination in his eyes. “I trust you all to have my back.”
Jazz lets out a slow breath, shaking his head, “You are part of Iruma’s pack and you fought beside him many times to be able to deceive Baal. It is a good idea, though. Unfortunately, one that we will need to leave to professionals.”
“The Azazel Family is our ally, and they have the right contacts,” Kerori jumped at the opening, she will not have her mate risking his life playing the spy. “I shall contact Ameri-san and see if she can ask her father for help.”
“Let’s do that, then,” Sabnock sighed. “The sooner we deal with my uncle, the sooner I will rest.”