Soul Turned Red

Soul Turned Red: Chapter Nine

Zeldris hadn't left Meliodas's side once he was back, becoming his regular caregiver. Meliodas had protected Elizabeth with complete disregard for himself, fully restoring his faith that the blond was still in there regardless of his red eyes and lack of speech.

He hadn't woken up consistently yet, but once Ban would bring in food he instantly opened his eyes and devoured as much as his stomach could take.

He knew the boy was probably running mostly on instinct right now since he was so malnourished, however he didn't mind as much as the others since he still saw him as Meliodas, not the monster who used to be Meliodas.

Ban wouldn't be in with food for another hour, which is why when the boy's eyes opened as Zeldris ran his hand through his hair, he was completely shocked. However that shock turned into a mix of fear and caution as the boy showed no recognition of him and growled a deep warning.

"Meli... it's okay. It's just me. You know me.. Remember?"

However he didn't get the answer he was looking for as the blond slammed him into a wall with surprising strength and held his hand around his throat.

Zeldris's first instinct was to reach for the gun on his hip, but he held the urge off. He knew Meliodas would never intentionally harm him and trusted he could get him back to his senses.

"M-Meli... It's okay.. It's just me, baby brother.."

The last part is what struck recognition in the boy. He blinked at first and then realized what he was doing as he instantly leapt to the other side of the room with horror at what he had just done.

Zeldris coughed for a minute as the hold had nearly crushed his windpipe, making him wonder how the boy had that kind of strength. But as soon as he regained his bearings, he stood up and walked towards the boy who backed away in response, probably scared he would hurt him again if he got too close.

"Hey... I'm okay, I know you didn't mean to hurt me. It's okay Mel. Come here.."

He wrapped his brother in a hug as soon as he managed to get close, following the other who crumbled to the ground and began crying.

"Shh... it's alright. I'm okay and so are you.. You're okay Mel.."

"Gggrrrrrhhhh...."

He didn't need to ask to know that he was saying he was sorry. He repeated it over and over again as he continued to cry into his brother's chest.

Before he knew it food was being brought in as Zeldris looked over at Ban carrying the plate with concern on his face.

"What's going on? And why is there a dent in the wall?"

"It's a long story. Let's just say Meli lost control for a second."

Understanding what that meant, Ban joined the two on the floor and sat the food down next to the blond who was still sniffling and crying softy.

He pat the boy on the head as red eyes turned to him.

"It's okay kiddo, no one got hurt. Also now that you're awake I want to tell you something. It might cheer you up a bit."

He gave him a puzzled look as Ban continued to answer.

"Ya ran off before we could tell your brothers about what you did. Do ya remember?"

He looked confused before realization and excitement made his eyes light up and the crying stop although he still sniffled.

"I brought up this board and marker so you could show him incase you were awake."