King of my heart

Siren Island - Part III

As the Abnormal Pack basked in the glow of their victory, a ripple of energy swept through the air. The atmosphere shifted subtly, at the arrival of none other than Mindgames King Mephisto, a prominent figure among the New 13 Crowns. His imposing presence cut through the celebratory chatter, drawing the attention of the Abnormal Pack and the beachgoers alike.

Mephisto, adorned in his casual beach attire that undermined his authority, approached the group with a discerning gaze. A smirk played on his lips as he acknowledged the Abnormal Pack for their successful battle against the Kraken.

"Well done, rookies," Mephisto commended, his voice carrying an air of amusement. "Especially you, Iruma. Your precision in targeting the Kraken's vital points was exhilarating to witness. Not bad for a young demon."

Iruma, though surprised by the unexpected praise from a member of the 13 Crowns, couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. Mephisto had recognized his skills in the heat of battle.

"Thank you, Mephisto," Iruma replied with a humble nod, his blue hair tousled by the sea breeze. "I owe it to my master, Supreme Bow Barbatos Bachiko, for teaching me the art of archery."

The demons surrounding the conversation, those who had been eavesdropping on the interaction, erupted into excited whispers. The mention of the Barbatos Clan, known for their mastery in various demonic arts, sparked a renewed admiration among the onlookers.

"Did you see that shot?" one demon exclaimed to another, excitement evident in their voice. "The Barbatos Clan always delivers!"

"I heard rumors that Bachiko was losing her touch, but clearly, that's not the case," another demon chimed in, their eyes wide with newfound respect. "It is not easy to become an archer, after all."

"I know, right?!" Another demon replied to the previous one. "I've heard whispers, you know, rumors questioning the strength of Bachiko. But that young demon's display tonight proves otherwise."

The Abnormal Pack, now surrounded by a buzz of conversation, shared proud glances with each other. Iruma, in particular, felt a deep sense of fulfillment and a surge of joy. Not only had they successfully taken down a Kraken, but his master's reputation was now being restored in the eyes of the Netherlands.

However, the sudden shift in Mephisto's demeanor sent a shiver down Iruma's spine. The celebratory atmosphere around them turned tense as Mephisto, his face now clouded with displeasure, leaned down and whispered a cryptic remark.

"Well, aren't you a bad boy," Mephisto sneered, the words dripping with a mixture of condescension and irritation. "Praising another 13 Crowns member in my territory."

Before Iruma could comprehend the implications of his words, Mephisto, fueled by his frustration, seized Iruma and effortlessly threw him away. The air whooshed past Iruma as he sailed through the air, and the impact of the beach's water was rough and jarring. Shock resonated in Iruma's eyes as he tried to process what had just transpired. Someone had surpassed the protective barrier of Ali-kun, the enchanted item that shielded Iruma from harm. It was an unprecedented breach of the Head Alpha's invulnerability.

The Abnormal Pack bristled at the blatant attack on their Head Alpha, their protective instincts kicking in. The Abnormal Pack, their expressions ranging from anger to disbelief, closed in on Mephisto, ready to defend their friend and leader. The tension hung in the air, an invisible clash of powers weaving through the atmosphere.

Iruma, soaked and disoriented from the abrupt assault, managed to rise from the water. The shock on his face transformed into a steely resolve. Despite the unexpected turn of events, a fire burned in his eyes. No one had dared to lay a hand on him in such a manner, no one had been able to do that. Especially, since he had evolved into a demi demon. Defiance welled up within him.