The Young Warlock : Part 2

Chapter IV

 < Come on Sam. >

<< Slow down Dad ! you’re going so fast ! I can’t catch up ! >>

< I don’t know what I’m gonna do with you. Come here. >

<< You don’t need to hold me. I’m not a baby. >>

< You may have gotten old but I’m still your father. Now come here. >

<< Okay dad. Dad, you're squeezing too hard ! what’s gotten into you ? you’re hurting me ! Dad ? >>

< I can’t hold you Sam. I can’t hurt you because I’m not here anymore. I died, remember ? >

<< Where are you going ? >>

< The place where I’m going is beyond this world. >

<< You’re leaving me alone ? >>

< No I’m not leaving you alone. You’re going down with me. >

<< Really ? You’re taking me with you ? wait , down ? >>

< Yes down to hell ! >

No let go of me ! you’re not my dad ! you’re not my dad ! Someone , anyone please help me. A monster ! A monster ! 

<<< Sam Sam what’s going on ? >>>

< Mike ! Mike, you gotta help me ! My dad.. His face ! A monster he’s trying to take me with him. You gotta help me. >

<<< Slow down. You were having a bad dream. It’s just a bad dream. No one is going to hurt you. You’re safe. You’re safe >>>

Thanks to Mike , I started to calm down. I feel better now.

< So tell me about this dream. >

<< I was having fun with my dad. Everything was going good until he said that I can’t stay here because I already left this world. When I told him that I don’t wanna be alone , he said that he’s taking me down with him to hell. And all of sudden his voice changed , his eyes went dark , his face changed too. >>

< I see. Don’t worry about it. No one is going to take you. We’ll keep you safe. >

<< Thanks Mike. >>

< You’re welcome. >

<< Now follow me. It’s 8 am. Everybody is waiting for you. >>

< Okay. >

After I got dressed , I followed Mike to the dining room. There weren’t many people there because most of them were either out for a mission or training.It’s just July , Mike and Steve.

We talked for a while and I got to know them more. I feel really comfortable around them.

After we finished breakfast , Steve and July took me to show me around while Steve went on a mission. The place was great. They had a big dining room , a huge tv and a lot of bed rooms. Until we got to a vast chamber.

It was like a training room. It had all kinds of equipment.

Mike started telling more about this room.

< This is the most important room in the association. This is where all warlocks learn how to fight against monsters. >

<< I see. But I don’t Understand. I’m not a warlock, why did you bring me here ? >>

< You’re not you’re not a warlock. But you don’t have much of a choice. What happened with the ork is just the beginning. There are way worse monsters out there. Is not just a demon after you , It’s the king , we don’t know anything about him or his abilities and that’s why he’s dangerous. Luckily he doesn’t fight himself but his soldiers are really strong and you need to be able to face them. >

<< No I can’t do this. >>

< I told you you don’t have a choice. >

<< No I’m not like you or July. I’m not cut out for this. >>

There’s no way I can be a warlock. I froze when I saw the ork couldn’t do anything and according to Mike , it’s the weakest kind. If I come against a similar situation I won’t be able to do anything. It’s Impossible for me.

< July would you help me out here ? >

<<< Come on Sam have some courage. I was way worse than you when I first started and couldn’t do anything. But Mike and the others helped me out. You’ll be fine. >>>

My father’s wish was for me to be able to make it on my own. I have to honor it. If they’re with me I can do it.

< Okay. I’m looking forward to it. >

<< Alright. First we start with fitness training in order to gain stamina and physical strength. Let’s start with 30 pushups. >>

Really ? fitness training ? I almost passed out chasing our neighbor's chicken. I guess I don’t have much of a choice. 1..2..3..4..5..6.

<< Come on Sam faster ! >>

7..8 easy for you to say , you’ve been training your whole life. You can get to 50 before I can get to ten !.

<< Why did you stop ? Come on stop thinking give me 30 pushups ! >> 

He’s right , I don’t have time to space out. 9..10..11..12…..13...14..15..16..17..18 ….19……..20 this is getting harder ! 21…..22…..23 my hands have reached their limits 24..25 just 5 more I can do it 26….27….28…...29…...30. Oh finally , I did it. I can’t feel my arms !.

<< Next 25 sit ups >>

Are you kidding me ? I just did 30 push ups ! I almost passed out. 

< Give me a break ! I’m exhausted. >

<< There’s no time for a break. This is the only way to get stronger ! >>

For god’s sake give me a break ! I Don't think I’m gonna survive this training. Might as well go to my room and write my will.

The fitness training was really hard. Push Ups , sit ups, weight lifting , running. The first day was really hard. I was so exhausted that I fell asleep on the floor. But after the third day , I started to get used to it and I got better. Afterwards we moved to hand combat training.

It was even harder than fitness training. I wasn’t that much of a fighter. I can’t even tell how many times I’ve been hit in the face. I couldn’t even keep up with July. However I was a fast learner. So after a few weeks of training , I got much better and became good at close range combat. Mike and July were really happy that I was doing well and I felt like I became stronger than before. I can face anything now and I won’t freeze like the last time. That’s why when Steve was going on a mission , I told him to take me as his partner.However July wasn’t so crazy about it.

< No you can’t go. You have no experience. It’s too dangerous for you. >

<< But you said it yourself. I have to become a warlock therefore I need experience and the only way to get it is by going on missions. Back me up here Mike. >>

< Come on Mike say something. Tell him It’s too dangerous. >

<<<Sam you know that I’m always on your side. But July is right , You can’t face demons with your current strength. >>> 

<< You can’t be serious. >>

< Sam we’re just worried about you. We don’t want you to get hurt. >

<<<< Both of you will stop treating him like a kid and let him do what he wants ! >>>>

<< Steve this is too dangerous. >>

<<< July is right. It’s still too early for him to go on missions. >>>

<<<< You got nothing to worry about. He’ll be fine plus he’s not alone, he's with me. I’ll keep him safe. This mission isn’t that dangerous. Just a couple of ogres. I can take them down by myself. In addition it will help him get more experience. >>>

<<< Alright but you have to keep safe no matter what ! >>>

<<<< I’ll protect him with my life.How about you July ? >>>>

<< I’m not on board but I have no choice but to accept it. Be careful Sam and don’t do anything reckless okay ? >>

< Okay I promise. >

<<<< With that being said , let’s get going. >>>>

My first mission. I’m nervous and kind of scared but a little bit excited. It’s my first mission as a warlock. When we got to highschool , the police were all over the place.

According to witnesses , the place was taken over by someone but no one saw anyone therefore the police aren't able to do anything. This is a job for a warlock.

We entered the place. There was a nasty smell there like rotten meat, the worst thing I’ve ever smelled. Steve started explaining the situation.

< We’re up against two ogres. Ogres are dead human beings but they are left with regrets and hatred therefore they fall victim to their own hatred and slowly descend into darkness.

That’s how they become ogres. Ogres are not the most powerful kind of demons but that doesn’t mean that you should underestimate them. They can manipulate others and they’re physically strong. They don’t attack directly, instead they hide and wait for the chance to attack. The only way to know where they’re hiding is to track the smell of their dead corps. It’s getting stronger, we're getting closer. Get ready. > 

We kept walking. The smell is getting stronger. The only way to fight demons is with cursed flow and manifest it through weapons. That’s why Steve gave me a blade with his own cursed flow in it since I’m still unable to use cursed flow.I took out my blade preparing for battle. And all of sudden , someone showed up.

< It’s a guy. I think he’s one of the students. He must have been hiding and decided to get out when he heard us coming. I’m gonna go help him. >

But then Steve stopped me.

<< Sam don’t go ! That’s not a student. Can you sense it ? the smell is way stronger now ! >>

< You mean … >

<< That’s right. Looks like we found one of them. The other one is probably near. Stay behind me. Don’t attack. >>

And then they started fighting. The ogre was really strong. However Steve managed to take him down and put a knife through his heart. He’s really strong. 

< Wow ! That was amazing ! >

<< It’s not the time for this ! As I told you there are two of them ! the other one might strike at any moment. Don’t let your guard down. >>

< Understood. >

As expected of a warlock. He’s too concentrated and has a lot of experience when it comes to battles. I need to observe him and do as he says in order to get better.

Like he told me , I can’t let my guard down. I need to concentrate.

< Sam behind you ! >

As he said that , I turned around and took out my blade ready for battle. He went for my head with a kick but I was able to dodge it thanks to Mike’s training. The fight continued. After that he started landing blows on me relentlessly. A punch to the right , another to the left followed by a rolling elbow but I was able to block it. A low kick , he’s trying to take down my legs. He’s thinking well. I don’t think he’s a student. However he’s not a match to Mike.

So when he tried to land a double hit on me , I managed to block it. Countered with a headbut , kicked him in the knees and pointed the knife at his heart. This is my victory.

But then something unexpected happened. I couldn’t finish him off. Even if it’s to survive , I can’t kill others. Even if he’s trying to kill me , do I have the right to take lives? Whether it is a person or a demon, a life is a life. You can’t just end it like that. Ogres are originally humans. He didn’t do anything wrong. On top of that he died with regrets and hatred. Just like me , he fell victim to the cruelty of this world. I can’t do this. I can’t kill him.

< Look out ! >

The ogre took the chance and went for the kill. I wasn’t focused. I thought I was dead for sure but Steve managed to take him down. 

< Steve you saved me. Thank you. >

But he was mad and started yelling at me.

<< What are you doing ? Why didn’t you finish him off ? didn’t I tell you not to let your guard down ? you could’ve died ! A warlock shouldn’t hesitate ! >>

< I’m sorry Steve I couldn’t do it. Taking lives isn’t that easy >

<< But you have no choice if you wanna survive.You can’t afford to be soft. >>

<<< You’re mine now warlock !>> >

Crap ! Is he still alive ? I’m pretty sure I landed a solid hit. He managed to avoid a blow in the heart ! damn it ! I got distracted ! I can’t react in time ! 

But then the ogre collapsed

< Steve are you okay ? >

<< Sam you saved me. I owe you one >>

< You saved me before we’re even. >

<< We managed to take down the ogres. We gotta find the students. >>

We started checking classes searching for the students until we found them hiding in the gym. They were really scared it took us a lot to calm them down.

Afterwards we took them outside to their parents. They ran toward them with tears and hugged them. Steve and I got out of there because we didn’t wanna deal with the police. 

< Let’s head back Steve. >

<< Sure but before we do that come with me. >>

< Where to ? >

<< Just come. It’s a surprise.>>

I went with him. He took me to a restaurant.

< This place.. >

<< That’s right. It’s your favourite spot. >>

< How did you … >

<< Mike told me. Your dad used to bring here all the time. I thought It may be a good place to celebrate your first successful mission.>>

< Thanks Steve. I appreciate it. >

<< No problem. Order whatever you want it’s on me. >>

< Well in that case. Excuse me, waitress. >

<<< Yes sir , may I take your order. >>>

< Can I have your menu ?. >

<<< Here you go >>>

< Thank you. Let’s see I’ll have the lobster and for dessert a chocolate cake. >

<<< And for you sir ? >>>

<< I’ll have the shrimp and a bottle of champagne with two glasses>>

< Hey I’m 17 I can’t drink ! >

<< Fine and a soda for him. >>

<<< Coming right up. >>>

<< So your first mission huh ? >>

< Yep. I still can’t believe what happened. >

<< I know how you feel. My first mission was crazy too.I’m sorry I yelled at you but It was for your sake. >>

< You don’t have to apologize I know. >

<< But in the end you killed the other ogre. How do you feel ? >>

< I don’t know , I’m not sure. If I hadn’t killed him , I wouldn’t be here. I did it to survive. Even though I know that , I still feel guilty about it. He didn’t choose to be an ogre. He just wanted to live his life as a normal human being. But life was too cruel for him and he couldn’t live a good life. Even after his death , he couldn’t rest in peace. He came back as an ogre and had to suffer even more. It’s just not fair. >

<< You’re right. It’s not in our world, nothing is fair. Warlocks save lives but they carry a big burden. In order to save a life , you have to take another. We deal with this every day every minute until we die. When I completed my first mission , I asked the same questions you asked. Why do they have to suffer ? Why do they have to die ? Why do I have to be the one who does it ?. To this day I still see the faces of the demons I killed wherever I go all the time. They won’t go away and they’ll follow me to my grave. You can’t change your past or erase it. The only thing you do is move on and live your life with that burden.

You’re at the beginning of your road. This mission is just the beginning. I won’t lie to you and say that everything is gonna be okay and that It won’t happen again. It will happen again and again and you will experience grief and sadness. But what you should know is that you’re not alone.We’re here for you. No one is born to walk this earth alone. >>

<<< Thanks for waiting. A lobster , a cheesecake , a soda for the young man and shrimp , a bottle of champagne for the gentlemen. Enjoy >>>

<< Thank you. I’m sorry what’s your name ? >>

<<< I’m Kathy. Nice to meet you.>>>

<< I’m steve and this is Sam Nice to meet you kathy. >>

<<< Enjoy your food. >>>

<< We’ll do. A toast to a first successful mission. Cheers. >>

< Cheers.I’m looking forward to working with you steve. >

<< Likewise Sam >>

After we finished eating , we headed back to the association but we ran into Mike and July on the way out. They kept asking about the mission and kept checking if I’m hurt, especially  July. When I told them about what happened , they were really proud of me.

Steve said that he had something to do and that he’ll be back soon so we kept waiting for him in the car. However I couldn’t help but think about what’s waiting for me. I’m not gonna lie , I’m terrified but at least I’m not alone. I have Mike , July and Steve. I'll be fine. And with that ends my first mission.

< I know you’re there. Get out. >

<< I thought I hid my presence. As expected of a first grade warlock. >

< You know who I am ? >

<< I’ve been monitoring you for a while. Good job with the ogre.But that wasn’t your full strength was it ? you were holding back. >>

< Who are you ? >

<< Pardon my behavior. My name is Kalilal, a member in the army of one of the four demon lords that work for the king. I assume you know my objective. >>

< Sam the boy. >

<< Bingo exactly. The king really wants that boy. If I can fulfil this mission , I may get promoted to one of the demon lords. >>

< I don’t care about your goal. If you want the boy you’ll have to go through me. >

<< I wouldn’t have it any other way. This time use your full strength. Do your best to entertain me , Steve. >>

Chapter V 

His cursed flow. It’s dense and more ominous than the ogre. He said he’s one soldier in the army of one of the demon lords. So he’s not an amateur. He’s experienced in battle. I came upon an annoying one.

His eyes aren’t black like other demons , his face looks normal. In addition he kept hiding in the shadows and didn’t strike until now. 

< You’re a vampire , aren’t you ? >

<< You noticed didn’t you ? >>

< Vampires don’t exit the underworld that often because they’re vulnerable to the sunlight. Which is why you kept watching in the shadow. >

<< Right again. >>

Vampires don’t exit the underworld often so we don’t have a lot of information about them. That’s why they’re difficult opponents to face. They’re fast and strong. But they’re vulnerable to sunlight. In that case.

I took a step back and threw my blade at him but he was able to block it easily.

Warlocks normally carry melee weapons with them because they’re experienced at close range combat. But against vampires , the smart thing to do is to stall until the sunrise. I never thought I would actually have to use it. But I have no choice.

< A gun ? I thought warlocks use melee weapons. >

<< I’m not like other warlocks. >>

< I see. You’re trying to keep a distance. That’s why you took out your gun. To try to make it a long range combat. >

He figured it out then. However, that doesn’t change what I have to do.

< It’s the optimal thing to do in a fight against a vampire. >

He’s in front of me ? when did he.. 

< But Don’t think I’m like other vampires ! >

A kick in the chest ? Crap ! I can’t dodge ! I need to block it !

I lost my blade so I tried to block it with my arms. I managed to block it but It was so strong that It broke one of my ribs.

< You survived that ? I was aiming for your heart. Not bad. >  

Even though I managed to block his kick , I got damaged. He’s a hard opponent. I need to be careful.

He blocked my kick. It damaged him though but he managed to avoid a fatal blow that would’ve ended his life for sure. First grade warlocks are something else.

Looks like it’s going to be fun after all.

< Ho ! You still wanna fight ? even after that damage ? >

<< What damage ? It's nothing. I’ve been through worse. >>

<< You’re either too brave or too dumb. >>

< Are you gonna keep talking vampire ? >

< Bring it on Warlock ! >

The fight continued. It became a close ranged one. A right hand from Steve that Kalial managed to dodge followed by a kick but no use. A low kick from Kalial blocked by Steve.

< What are you looking at Warlock ? >

Damn it ! The low kick was divergent. His real strike is coming now. I can’t dodge it.

The low kick from Kalilal was able to catch Steve off guard followed by a right hand in the face that knocked down Steve.

< You’re done now warlock ! This battle is over !. >

Now that it came to this. I have no choice. First stage , release.

He blocked it ! I thought I had him this time.

< You managed to block it. That was impressive … >

An unexpected blow from Steve managed to take Kalial off guard. 

< You managed to take me off guard I’ll give you that. But that’s not enough to … >

Blood ? Why am I bleeding ? His punch wasn’t that strong before. No It’s the same as before but something is different. His injuries are healing , he’s capable of regenerating ? That’s impossible ! Humans can’t regenerate ! What's happening ?

< I thought I landed a blow there. I’m still a little rusty. It’s been a while since I fought like this. >

Warlocks usually fight with cursed flow in their weapons. But he doesn’t have his blade. How did he land a blow filled with cursed flow without a weapon ?. He didn’t …

<< I see. That’s what happened. >>

< You noticed it then ? >

<< You released your cursed flow didn’t you ? >>

< Yeah precisely.I almost died there. I guess it’s my fault for underestimating you. No more holding back. >

<< You think you can defeat me just because you released a little cursed flow ? Don’t push yourself. I can take you down with one blow ! >>

< Where are you looking, Vampire ? >

Behind me ! When did he …

< You should keep your eye on your opponent in battle. >

I couldn’t see him ! Before I knew he got behind me ! What is going on here ?

A blow from Steve was enough to cause a lot of damage to Kalial.But It didn’t kill him.

<< Still...not...enough. >>

< I thought so. I didn't expected it to kill you either way >

<< You’re not able to defeat me with your current level ! >>

< I wouldn’t be so sure about that. >

<< Huh ? >>

< Take a look around you. >

<< Do you think that a trick that old is gonna.. >>

How ? When ? my arm ! He blew my arm away !. Seeing that , Kalial started screaming from the pain.

< There’s no need I got your arm with me. Your arm is here. Here catch. >

<< You scum. You dare to humiliate me ! Unforgivable ! >>

What is this ? He's not screaming from the pain anymore. This is absurd ! his arm is back !. That can’t happen ! I blew it away.He regenerated. 

< You’ve done it now Warlock ! You’ve made me angrier. I’ll show you , how a real demon fights. >

He’s using blood, what is he doing ? he’s not gonna …

< I summon you from the world of the dead to the world of the living. >

A summoning technique ? What is he summoning ?

< Now come before me. Karma ! >

The place started to crumble. The area started to change. 

What’s happening ? I have a bad feeling about this. What is this place ? When did we get here ?

< This place is beyond the real world. This place was the kingdom of vampires before the demon king came. Now it’s just the home of what you Warlocks call 3rd grade demons. >

That’s why he used his blood. If he just wanted to get back to the underworld , he wouldn’t have used a summoning technique. We didn’t transfer to the underworld. He summoned the underworld here. Meaning if I wanna break his technique I need to defeat him. But how ?

 < The real battle starts now Warlock ! >

He’s coming. How is it going to attack ? What move is he going to make ?

< Pay attention to what’s in front you Warlock ! >

A Hellhound ? What is a hell hound doing in the real world ?. 

Steve Jumped to avoid the hell hound.But when he looked up , He saw Kalial ready to strike.

A distraction again ? I won’t fall for the same trick again !

Steve blocked Kalial’s punch with a kick.

< Nice counter. You didn’t forget about the hellhound did you ? >

Damn it ! The hound wasn’t a distraction ! He was. He got me. I can’t defend.

The hellhound attacked Steve ferociously. Steve was barely able to keep up.

I didn’t expect this. He’s stronger than I thought. The hound caused a lot of injuries. They won’t heal. A warlock shouldn’t release his cursed flow because the repercussions are uncanny. It’s the first thing they teach you in training.

But this time I have no choice but to do it. second stage , release.

His aura changed again. Is it just me ? no his cursed flow is higher than it used to be. His injuries are healing again.

<< You released more cursed flow ! I knew it ! Warlocks are amusing ! >>

Kalial couldn’t help but get excited. He started laughing like a maniac.

< Here I come Kalial ! >

<< Bring it on Steve ! >>

The fight got more intense. The hellhounds got scared and left the battlefield. This is no longer the fight of a vampire and a warlock. This is the fight of two monsters.

They were on the same level. A fast attack from Kalial got blocked by Steve followed by a spinning kick dodged by Steve. A counter from Steve got Kalial but wasn’t enough to take him down. He managed to react to it. Both sides were damaged but it didn’t stop them. Blood was everywhere.

< I knew it. Entertain me more Warlock ! >

<< I hate to break the fun. But this battle is over. >>

< Huh ? >

<< You didn’t forget did you ? we’re still at the real world. >

My skin it’s burning ! The sunlight !. That was his plan all along. To stall until the sunlight. Damn it ! Damn it ! I failed. I disappointed you Master.No I won’t let it end here ! No matter what ! 

Third seal : break.

What is this ? What happened ? his skin stopped burning. Steve couldn’t believe what was happening.

<< What does this mean ? A vampire’s fatal weakness in sunlight. >>

< You’re not wrong. Sunlight is indeed our weakness. But every weakness vanishes eventually. Thanks to the demon king , vampires who are compatible with his blood are no longer invincible to sunlight. >

<< The demon king’s blood. Don’t tell me … >>

< I told you. Don’t think I’m like other demons. Now let’s continue our battle. >

This is over. I have no energy left. My plan was to use sunlight against him. I can’t do anything. Is it the end for me ?Is this how I am gonna die? Alone ? Fear is the last thing I feel before I die ?.

< Show me your despair Warlock ! >

It seems that this is for me. Forgive me Mike , July , Sam farewell.

< Who are you ? >

<<< Hey Steve it’s been a while. >>>

<< What are you doing here ? I thought you were busy with the board. >>

<<< You called me remember ? I didn’t find you at the association. Mike told me that you had something to do. I tracked your aura. It led me here.He really got you. >>>

<< I’m fine. This is nothing. >>

< I asked who you are ? >

<<< I’m having a conversation here. Don’t interrupt me. >>>

< How dare you talk down to me, warlock ? You’re done for ! >

All he did was expand his cursed flow. That’s all it took him to take down Kalial.

<<< Didn’t I say don’t Interrupt ?. You scum ! >>>

<< Still as arrogant as ever. >>

<<< I was a little rough but I didn’t kill him. We have questions to ask him after all. >>>

<< Actually we don’t. I already know why he came here. >>

<<< The boy ? >>>

<< Yeah. The king sent him. There’s no need to interrogate him. >>

<<< Is that so ? Well in that case I’ll put him out of his misery. >>>

He’s something else. No matter what I do , I can’t keep up with him. Every time he surprises me more and more. What is this ? another cursed flow ? Who else is here ? Sam , Mike ? no It’s different. 

<<< It’s rare for you to come yourself Samael. >>>

Samael ? Kalial mentioned him. He’s one of the four demon lords. His presence , his aura, they're on another level. I can’t move.

<<<< He really got you Kalial.>>>>

< My apologies master. I failed you. >

<<<< It’s not surprising. Even I find him a difficult opponent to deal with. >>>>

<<< Up for another round Smael ? to settle the old score ? >>>

<<<< That sounds fun. But not today. I’m going to retreat for today. See ya. >>>>

Wait ! my whole body hurts ! The side effects of the second release. Every bone in my body hurts.

<<<< Come on let’s go back. I’ll give you a hand. >>>>

<< Thanks I owe you one , Jason >>

Afterwards Steve and Jason went back to the association. I got really worried when I saw Steve. He was beaten up. But he kept saying he was fine. He said that it wasn’t that big of a deal despite our insistence to know. In the end we left him alone to rest.

< What do you think ? >

<< There’s no mistake. It’s a demon’s cursed flow. >>

< I knew it. >

<< It’s not just that. >>

< It’s even more ominous than samael’s. If that gets out of control , we’re done for. That’s probably why the king wants him. He could turn the table around. >

<< What are we going to do ? >>  

< For now let’s keep an eye on him. Make sure he doesn’t get out of control. >

<< What about the king ? >>

< Samael probably told him about you and me. He’ll have to wait before he makes any move. In that time we need to prepare him. >

<< Prepare him ? you mean.. >>

< It’s time for phase two of the training. >

Meanwhile, Samael got back to the underworld and went to the king to report back.

< How did it go ? >

<< Like you said your majesty. He’s with the warlocks. >>

< Like I thought. They beat us to him. Did you get a good look at the warlock that was with him ? >

< Kalial faced him. He’s powerful. He would’ve died if I hadn’t showed up. >

<< I see. So how was the boy ? >>

< He managed to kill the ogre that we sent. >

<< Outstanding ! >>

< That wasn’t all. He showed up. >

<< Who ? >>

< The worst one of them all. >

<< Jason ! He’s back. >>

< Yes. He’s the one that saved the other warlock. >

<< An annoying one returned. Your soldiers can’t face him. It won’t be long before a war emerges between the underworld and the warlocks. >>

< What should we do ? >

<< Call the other three to a meeting. >>

< Yes your majesty. >

Fabulous. Everything is going smoothly. Soon , soon enough we’ll reunite and when the day comes not even warlocks will be able to stop us ! And when we exterminate warlocks , nothing will stand in our way. The upper world , the boy, everything will be mine.  

Chapter VI 

< Steve welcome back. >

<< Sam , Mike July it’s been a while >>

< How are you feeling ? >

<< I’m still a little injured but nothing too dangerous. I should be able to go out on missions soon. >>

< Let’s go out on a mission when you get better. >

<< Sure thing Sam >>

<<< What about me ? >>>

< Another time July. >

<<< That’s not fair. I haven’t gone out on a mission with you since we left when we were kids. Come on take me with you. >>>

<<<< July , Sam should go. He’s still new here and doesn’t have much experience. Going with Steve will help him get better. >>>

<<You’re right Mike. Another time July. >>

<<< Okay. But will you keep your promise ? >>>

<< Of course. >>

< We don’t we all go on a mission. The four of us. >

<< What ? why ? >>

< I haven’t seen Mike and July in action since I got here. And Mike said that I need to gain more experience. He and July are training me so that they can see how I do in battles. >

<< Make sense. >>

< So you agree ? >

<< You didn’t leave me much of a choice. You're a hard one to beat. >>

<<< Yes ! thank you Sam, you're the best. >>>

< No problem. >

<<< Actually there is a mission if you’re not too busy. >>>

< I’m still a little out of shape. Give me 2 hours to hit the gym. >

<<< The mission is tomorrow. Take your time. >>>

< Great , see you then. >

I went to the training room to practice with Mike and July. I faced Mike in a duel. He didn’t go easy on me. I attacked first with a right hand but he blocked it easily followed by a kick. But he caught me in mid air and slammed me down. He got the first round. The second round was his , I won the third , he got the fourth and we continued. 7-3 Mike won. I lost. I’m still not a match for him.

< You’re getting better Sam. >

<< I lost though. But thanks for cheering me up July. >>

< It’s Mike’s fault. He should take in consideration that you’re still new to this. >

<<< I was training him. What’s the point of going easy on him ? If I do that he won’t get better. >>>

<< Mike is right. I don’t want him to go easy on me. >>

< Sam. Fine if that’s what you want. >

<<< You are getting better. In addition you managed to kill an ogre in your first mission and saved Steve. That’s impressive. >>>

<< Thanks Mike. You too July. >>

<<< Let’s keep practicing. >>>

I spent all day practicing with Mike and July. The following day , the day of the mission, July was really exciting. But she got upset when Steve told us that he couldn’t go because he had something to do.

< You didn’t keep your promise. >

<< I’m sorry July. Something came up at the last minute. >>

<<< What was the mission anyway ? >>>

< One of the warlocks gave us information about a probable location of a werewolves pack. We were going to check it out. > 

<<< The three of us will do it. >>>

<< No not this one. >>

< I thought it was just recon. >

<< It is. But I have a really bad feeling about this one. Let this one slide. I’ll give it to one of the first grade warlocks. >>

<<<< Alright >>>>

<< Thanks Mike. >>

Afterwards Steve left. July was really upset that she didn’t get to go out on the mission. I couldn’t see July upset. 

< July Mike wait up. >

<< Sam what is it ? >>

< Don’t give the mission to someone else. >

<< But you heard Steve. He has something to take care of. He can’t go. >>>

< So what ? We can do it ourselves ! >

<< What ? We can’t do that ! you heard what Steve said ! >>

< Come on we can do it. >

<< A little help here Mike ! >>

<<< July is right Sam. Steve said that he has a bad feeling about it.His hunch is always right. >>>

< Come on nothing is gonna happen. We can do this. It’s just a recon mission. If it becomes dangerous , we’ll retreat. >

<< I don’t know about this Sam. Plus Steve is gonna get mad. We’ll be breaking our supervisor’s order. >>

<<< If we finish the mission before he gets back we’ll be fine. >>>

<< Mike ! >>

< Come on July. The three of us can do it. What do you say ? >

<< You didn’t leave me much of choice. >>

< So you’re on board ? >

<< I’m on board. >>

< Yes ! >

<< But if anything happens we don’t fight okay ? we call for backup. >>

< You got it. >

And thus we went on our mission. The location was in the suburbs. We got in Mike’s car and headed there. When we got there , we went to the location. It was an abandoned warehouse. We searched the whole place but we didn’t find anything.

< Well we didn’t find anything. >

<< I guess we’ll head back. >>

There was nothing after all. We drove this far for nothing. I’m a little disappointed.

What is this ?

< Guys come check this out. >

<< What is this ? Blood ?>>

<< It’s a werewolf’s blood. >>

< You mean ? >

<< Looks there was a werewolf here after all. >>

< But what is this drawing ? >

<< Drawing ? >>

< Yeah it looks like a small gate. I’m gonna take a closer look. >

<<< No Sam don’t come near it ! >>>

But it was too late. When we got closer , the blood started to shape and a huge gate started to manifest. It sucked us all in. We weren’t able to do anything. 

< What is this place ? Where are we ? how far are we from the warehouse ? >

<< This isn’t just someplace. >>

< What ? what do you mean ? >

<< This is the underworld ! >>

<<< The underworld ? That's impossible ! How did we get here ? >>>

< The werewolf's blood. It must've been a trap to lure us here. >

I’ve never seen anything like this. This place was a wreck. Everything was destroyed.

No buildings , no streets , not a single person was there. The sky was dark. The weather was upset. On top of that the place was filled with wild creatures.  

< What are those ? >

<< Sam stay behind me. July get ready ! >>

< What ? why ? >

<< Those are hellhounds ! They’re not the strongest type of demons but you can’t face them!>>

< But … >

<<< Here they come ! >>>

The hellhounds aren't that strong. They were as strong as the ogres. However they were really fast and it wasn’t just one.

< One after one ! They won’t end ! >*

<< What should we do ? >>

At this rate we’re gonna die. I need to fight too. I took out my blade and joined the battle.

One of them came straight for me but I managed to take him down by putting my blade through his neck.

< Sam what are you doing ? >

<< You said it yourself. There are too many of them. You need all the help you can get. >>

<<< Save the talk for later. The battle is not over yet. >>>

< You’re right. Let’s go ! >

We started facing them. We managed to take down a lot of them. But they just kept coming. We were about to give up.

< Yo warlocks. >

Who is he ? Is he with hounds ?. Why ? The hounds are attacking him !

< Stay out of my way you filthy beasts ! >

The hounds are all down ! How did he do that ? What is this guy ? He's not human. His eyes were all blue , his face was bruised , his fingernails were really tall. He wasn’t wearing a shirt. He was half naked. What are all those bruises on his chest ? 

< Sorry for the rude reception. Those filthy beasts don’t obey anyone. They need some discipline every now and then. >

<< A werewolf. >>

This was a werewolf then ? He’s not exactly what I expected. 

<<< Werewolves are wild creatures. They’re totally different from the werewolves you see in movies. They don’t turn to full wolves and they don’t do it when the moon is full. They maintain a humanian form. You see those bruises on his face ? That's the way to recognize a werewolf. >>>

<< Not just that.He has more bruises than other werewolves. His eyes they’re not red. They’re blue. >>

<<< You mean ? >>>

<< He’s a pack leader ! an alpha ! >>

An alpha ? Their leader showed up out of nowhere ! Talk about bad luck. What are we gonna do ? even an amatuer like me would know. His aura , his strength, they're off the chart. Even Steve will have a hard time against him. 

< Sam listen carefully. When I give you the single run. If we stay and fight, the three of us will die. I’ll hold him for you. >

<< That’s right Sam. We’ll stall him for … >>

< You too July. >

<< What’re you talking about ? If I run you’ll die ! >>

< Probably. But if you stay we’ll both die. You have to survive. >

<<< Mike what are you talking about ? There’s no way we’re gonna leave you ! >>>

< Listen to me ! You two need to survive no matter what ! I can’t stand and watch people I care about die in front of me ! Not again ! >

<<< I’m not leaving ! >>>

<<Sam ! It’s pointless. Mike has already made his choice. There’s nothing we can do. >>

< Thank you for understanding. >

<<< No I can’t accept this ! >>>

<< Neither can I ! I’ve known Mike my whole life. I hate this more than you do. But there’s nothing we can do about it. When we became warlocks , we knew what we signed up for. A warlock is always facing the risk of death. Every warlock knows that. The only thing they can do is hope for a heroic death. >>

< Give my regards to Steve and the others. >

<< I’ll call for backup. Until then do your best to survive. >>

< Alright. >

<<<< I’m sorry to interrupt your little conversation but none of you is running. >>>>

< Your opponent is me. Both of you , get out of here ! now ! >

Mike’s signal. July and I went for it. 

<<< I told you no one is going anywhere ! >>>

He’s not gonna let us run ! The werewolf is coming our way. But Mike stopped him.

< Both of you go now ! Your opponent is me Alpha ! >

<<<< Very well warlock. Bring it on ! >>>>

We managed to get away while Mike was doing his best to keep the alpha busy. 

Mike aimed his blade at his neck but he dodged it followed by a swing aiming for his face but no use. Mike kept swinging and swinging but with the same result. The alpha countered with a punch in the face that broke his nose followed by a kick in the chest that sent him flying away.

The kick really damaged him. He started coughing blood.

< All that big talk for nothing. This is all you got ?. Are you done already ?>

Damn it ! He's way stronger than me. Little more , I need to buy more time for them to get away.

< Who do you think you’re talking to ? >

<< You still have energy left in you ? You’re a persistent one warlock. >>

< The fight … is not … over yet.. >

Second stage , release. Damn it ! I’m already damaged. I have no choice but to fight through the pain.

< You released cursed flow huh ? >

Mike took his blade and went for it.

< However..>

He broke the blade with his jaw ! How strong is he ?

< Not enough.. >

The alpha kept hitting Mike. Punches right , left ,kicks. Mike was barely able to keep up.

< Not enough ! not enough. >

Mike was screaming from the pain.

< Not enough. More , more. Show me more. Blood , agony , pain show me more !. Despair ! >

But Mike collapsed. He couldn’t even stand up. 

< Let’s keep looking for the gate. It’s gotta be here somewhere. >

<< I can’t do this July. >>

< What are you saying now ? I thought we were done with this !>

<< I can’t stand it ! Why do we have to run ? Why do we have to leave him alone ? Is there really nothing we can do ? >>

< I don’t like it either okay ! Do you think I wanna let him fight that monster alone ? The three of us would’ve died if we stayed. But if two of us run , the chances of survival will increase. Come on now let’s go we don’t wanna waste time. >

<< Screw this ! >>

< What ? >

<< This is all I do ! Just run away ! Others always have to help me. I’m sick of it. I’m sick of not being able to do anything and watch people I care about suffer. First my dad and now Mike ? No I’m not gonna go through this again ! >>

< Sam come back here ! >

<< I’m going back. >>

< No don’t go. Damn it ! >

I went back to Mike and July came after me to stop me. She’s worried about me. Her and Mike. They’re doing their best risking their life to save me. But if I keep relying on them , nothing is going to change. It will be okay, Mike is strong.Even if it’s an alpha , he wouldn’t lose in a one on one fight. It will be okay , it will be okay , it will be …

< Mike ? >

<< Sam what … are.. you …… >>

<<< All that big talk and this is all you can show for ? Pathetic ! You warlocks think that you’re invincible. No matter how strong you are , at the end of the day you’re just humans. You’re vulnerable. >>>

< Mike ! >

<< Stay away Sam ! I don’t want you to get hurt. You need to survive. I’m weak, that's why I ended up like this. But you’re not like me. Live , hang on to dear life and get stronger. You can do that. You’re my best friend after all. >>

< Mike ! What are you saying ? No you can’t die no no this can’t happen ! >

<< You’re such a crybaby. Even when we were kids , I always fought off those who made you cry. I failed to save a lot of friends , a lot of people I cared about. That’s why I vowed to protect you. You made it easier for me. I’m grateful for that. >>

<<< You still have life left in you ? Warlocks are really persistent. >>>

<< Mike ! >>

<< Take care of Sam for me July. >>

<<< Your life ends here Warlock. >>>

<< July , Sam thank you , for everything ….. Farewell. >>

< Mike ! Nooo ! >

July fell on her knees. She couldn’t believe what she saw. Her friend that has been with her since she can remember died in front of her eyes. She started screaming in agony.

Again ! I couldn’t do anything again ! It’s my fault that he’s dead. Because of my weakness , because I can’t do anything.

< Humans are really weak after all. Behold after all that bragging his corps is on the floor. >

<< What do you know about him ? what do you know ! He was my friend ! You killed him ! you took him from me ! >>

July ! 

< You , all of them , you anger me. If you wanna be with him that bad , I’ll send you to him ! >

<<< It’s your fault ! >>>

<< Sam ? >>

<< It’s your fault ! It’s your fault ! Everything is your fault ! >>

< You too. All you can do is blame your weakness on others. I’ll send you both to him. >

<< The one that’s gonna die is you ! >>

Suddenly something changed. The alpha couldn’t do anything. July was shocked.

Sam? What is going on ? What is happening to him ? his cursed flow it’s spreading out. How ? He hasn’t learned how to use cursed flow yet. Not just that , his energy , his aura is not a warlock’s. It is more ominous , more evil , depper. A demon’s aura.

Everything went dark. I couldn’t feel anything. Everything turned into pure rage , hatred, blood lust. Something took over me. The underworld was in chaos , the hellhounds , the ogres, all demons were afraid. Even the alpha was just standing still.

His eyes are bleeding. His face is changing. He’s screaming. He’s not himself. His aura, his animosity, it's like the king. I can’t even move.

< Your aura , your animosity. It’s stronger than mine. I see that’s why the king wants you this bad. >

<< Who gave the right to talk ? >>

< What did you say ? Don’t get carried away, human !. I’m gonna... >

I can’t talk ! What did he do ? I’m choking. 

<< I told you not to talk didn’t I ? >>

< I am Meriel, one of the four demon lords ! A weak human like you can’t … >

Meriel got blown away. He swung his hand. That’s all it took to blow me away. What the hell is he ? this presence , this power , this pride it’s like the king is standing in front of me.

Why ? He’s just a human ! Why does he have this power?

He’s coming my way. He’s going to kill me ! 

< What are you going to do ? stop it !>

<< An eye for eye. You killed my friend so now you die. >>

I was watching what’s happening but I couldn’t do anything. I was trapped in my own mind struggling to get out.

< There’s no use. There’s nothing you can do to break the shackles. >

Who is this ? I’ve never seen anything like this before. Two horns , yellow eyes, red face. His hair was messy. His fingernails , his hands were burned. A monster. This one is a true beast.

< A beast ? That’s not surprising. >

How did he.. ? Can he read my mind ? No, he probably knew from my reaction like the Ork.

< I’m not like the Ork. They’re useless scum. I’m nothing like them. >

<< Who are you ? >>

< My name is Malice. >

<< Malice ? >>

< You’ll know who I am soon. I’ve always wanted to meet you son. >

<< What did you say ? >>

< Did you not hear me ? >

<< Stop messing around with me ! I can never be your son ! >>

< That hurts you know. I may be a demon but I still have feelings.You are my heir after all. >

<< You heir ? >>

< John didn’t tell anything did he ? >

<< How did you … >>

< Like I thought he didn’t tell you. You father and I go way back. You can say that I’m your godfather. >

<< You’re lying ! you’re lying ! What did you do to me ? get me out of here ! >>

< I didn’t do anything to you. This is all you. Your friend's death made you lose control. Those shackles they’re your hatred , your rage. You are imprisoned by your own hatred. Your worst enemy. When humans experience grief , they get taken over by their rage , their hatred. You blame all of it on us demons but it’s really your doing. Take a look yourself. >

<<< Sam stop, this isn’t you. Listen to me ! Please stop. >>>

July ? no what are you doing ? Run ! get out of here. Damn it ! I need to get out of these shackles.

< Wow you just hit your friend. That was a strong blow. I'm surprised she’s still alive. Not for long though. >

<< You bastard ! get me out of here ! >>

< I already told you it’s not me. >

<< I will kill you ! >>

< Great keep it up. Your hatred is growing ! >

Please stop ! I’m gonna kill her. July run please ! stop trying to save me ! I’m begging you.

<<< Sam listen to me. >>>

< You hit her again. You’re really enjoying this. >

<< Please stop ! I’m begging you ! Get me out of here ! >>

< I can. But what’s in it for me ? >

<< I’ll give you anything. Please save her ! >>

< Now we’re talking. Talk about bad timing. >

Someone is coming ? Who is it ?

<<<< July get away from him ! >>>>

< <<Steve ! Thank god you’re here. Sam is … >>>

<<<< That’s not Sam ! >>>>

<<<What ? >>>

<<<< His cursed flow is out of control. My bad feeling came true.He’s not thinking straight. He’s consumed by his rage. Sam can’t tell the difference between his enemy and his friend. At this rate we’re all done for. >>>>

<<< It’s my fault. Because we ran and left Mike alone. He didn’t wanna leave but I made him. It’s my fault. >>>

<<<< Stop blaming yourself. Whatever happened to Mike is his choice and he was okay with it. A warlock always expects death. At least he died as a hero. You’re injured, you need medical care now. >>>>

<<< What about Sam ?>>>

<< It’ll be fine. I’ll take care of it. >>

<<< No I’m not leaving. >>>

July lost consciousness. She was too damaged. Steve carried her on his shoulders.

< <<<July needs medical care immediately. I’m taking her back to the association. I’m counting on you to take care of the rest , Jason. >>>>

Jason ? I’ve heard this name before. He’s the one that my father mentioned before he died.He’s wearing an eye patch. What’s his deal ?.

<<<< Sealing technique : chains of redemption >>>>>

The shackles they’re breaking. What did he do ? a sealing technique. I’m fading. I'm Feeling numb. I can’t ….

< Still as annoying as ever. >

<< It’s been a while Malice. >>

<<< Jason you bastard ! You’re just a human being ! Don’t get too … >>>>

<< Stay out of the way insect ! >>

The demon lord Meriel. One strike filled with cursed flow was enough to end his life.

<< Still as terrifying as ever. Poor Meriel. >>

< Malice , you’re still plotting something aren’t you ? >

<< You know me well Jason. >>

< If I had stopped you that day none of this would have happened. >

<< That’s right. You only have yourself to blame. >>

< I don’t care what you’re plotting. But I’m going to stop it. >

<< Sure I’m looking forward to it. I gotta go now. >>

< I’m not done with you ! >

<< Are you sure you have time to deal with me now ? Don’t you have to handle the boy ? >>

< You won’t get away with this. This time you got away from me. There won’t be a second. >

<< I’m looking forward to it. Until we meet again Jason , Sam. >>

The recon mission turned into something else. A warlock died , the other two were heavily injured. What I feared came to pass. His demonic side is manifesting. If I don't do anything about it , we’re all done for. The prophecy will come true. It will be hell on earth !