Chapter 113: The Dominion of the Baal Clan
Chapter 113: The Dominion of the Baal Clan
Alice, who had been silent until then, lifted her gaze to meet Vergil's. Her eyes shone with a mix of emotions, carefully held in check. She opened her mouth as if to say something, but no sound came out. Vergil maintained his smile, yet there was a warmth in his expression that seemed to reassure the girl in that moment.
"No need to be afraid," he said softly, extending a hand toward her. "If I said you'll speak again, it's because I'll make it happen." He smiled, gently patting the little girl's head.
"Do you have a plan, darling?" Katharina asked, leaning in slightly, her curiosity piqued. After all, it wasn't every day that Vergil was so determined to attempt something like this—something many believed to be impossible.
They had already tried numerous ways to heal Alice, using artifacts and other methods to cure her. Yet, nothing had worked. Even the scars on her body seemed impervious to any form of healing.
"I have a feeling... but that's close enough," Vergil replied with a strange glint in his eyes, exuding confidence. "To start, I need to understand exactly what's blocking her voice."
Vergil stood and walked over to Alice. He knelt in front of her, his eyes locking onto hers once more. "Trust me, Alice. This won't hurt."
Alice hesitated for a moment before giving a small nod. Vergil raised his hand, his fingertips glowing with a soft, silvery light as he began to cast a spell.
"Here we go," he murmured. "Let's see what's hidden."
As the light touched Alice's throat, the room fell silent. For a moment, nothing happened. Then, an unseen energy seemed to ripple around her, as though something ancient and profound was being unveiled.
"Interesting," Vergil muttered, his brow furrowing slightly as he examined the magic binding Alice's voice. "This isn't just a curse. It's a bond. Something connecting her voice to... someone else? Or something else?"
"What does that mean?" Katharina asked, stepping closer with a worried expression.
"It means," Vergil said slowly, "that to make her speak again, we need to break this bond. But that might not be as simple as it sounds." He withdrew his hand, letting the light fade. "For now, Alice, continue to be patient. I promise I'll fix this."
Alice gave him a small smile, one filled with gratitude.
"Well, that was intriguing," Roxanne said, finally setting her empty plate aside. "But do you really think you can undo something like that? Sounds complicated."
"Complicated is what I do best," Vergil replied with a confident smirk.
Viviane, who had been silently observing, stepped forward. "If I may, my lord," she began, "I can help research this bond. Perhaps there are ancient records that explain what's happening."
Vergil regarded her for a moment, then nodded. "Very well, Viviane. Bring me detailed reports as soon as you find anything."
"Yes, my lord." She bowed and left the room, leaving the others to process the situation.
"In the meantime," Vergil said, turning his attention back to Alice, "you don't have to worry. This house is your home now. You're not alone anymore."
Alice smiled again as he gently patted her head.
"I need to go somewhere now," Vergil said suddenly, stopping his gesture and turning to look at Ada, who had been silently gazing at the sky.
"Want to come with me?" he asked, directing the question solely to her. His other two wives exchanged a glance and quickly understood.
"You're going to see Ada's bitch of a mother? I thought you were going to wait for her to come in person," Katharina said, crossing her legs provocatively. "I thought we were going to... have some fun now..." She pouted, her tone laced with playful mischief.
Vergil sighed, shaking his head with a faint smile. "I know you love to tease, Katharina, but some things can't wait. I promise I'll make it up to you later."
Katharina rolled her eyes dramatically, but the smirk on her lips betrayed her true feelings. "Hmph. You always promise, darling. And I'll hold you to it."
Roxanne chuckled softly, leaning back on the couch. "Well, enjoy the family reunion, Ada. Tell your mother I haven't forgotten the last time she tried to 'advise' us." Her voice dripped with irony, though there was no genuine malice.
Ada, who had been gazing distantly at the sky, finally turned her attention to the conversation. Her eyes met Vergil's, and she nodded slowly. "I will. It's time to face this." Her voice was calm but carried a quiet determination.
Vergil extended his hand to her. "Then let's go."
Ada rose gracefully, taking his hand. As the two headed toward the exit, Katharina murmured just loud enough for them to hear, "Good luck. If she tries anything, Vergil, you know what to do."
"Of course," Vergil replied without turning back. "Don't worry, love. I won't let anyone disrespect my wife." His words carried a firmness that left no room for doubt.
As they left, Alice gently tugged on Katharina's sleeve, looking up at her with curiosity. Katharina smiled and leaned down to the young girl. "He's handling something complicated, but Vergil always knows what he's doing. Nothing slips through his fingers."
Roxanne sighed, grabbing another piece of cake. "Well, while they're sorting that out, we've got the house to ourselves. How about making the most of it, Katharina?"
"Good idea," Katharina said, her eyes glinting with mischief. "And you, Alice? Want to help me pick out a new dress? Maybe something Vergil won't be able to take his eyes off when he gets back?"
Alice smiled shyly but looked intrigued and eager.
...
The entrance to the Baal Clan's palace was an awe-inspiring sight, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with dark, otherworldly touches that underscored its demonic ties. The dark wooden gate was flanked by pillars carved with arcane symbols, while floating lanterns emitted an eerie violet glow. The air was heavy with a palpable energy—imposing yet orderly—a reflection of the clan's power and discipline. Find your next read on M-V-L
Vergil and Ada appeared before the gate in an instant, their arrival marked by a subtle shimmer of magic that quickly dissipated. A soft breeze rustled their clothing, carrying the scent of cherry blossoms mingled with something metallic and enigmatic.
Waiting on the other side, as if anticipating their arrival, stood a composed figure. The maid was young and of medium height, exuding an air of elegance and professionalism. Her uniform was immaculate—a black dress with white accents, paired with thigh-high stockings and polished shoes. Her dark purple hair, the shade of a midnight sky, was tied into a neat bun adorned with a cherry blossom pin. Her piercing violet eyes held a cool, cutting edge.
She bowed deeply, holding the posture for a moment before rising to meet their gaze. "Welcome to the domain of the Baal Clan, Lord Vergil," she said, her voice steady. Then, her gaze shifted to Ada. "Welcome back, Princess."
Vergil stepped forward, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings with calm curiosity. He inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Ei, is it? It seems the hospitality here is as rigid as the rest of this domain. Interesting." A faint chuckle escaped him.
Ei remained impassive, her posture unwavering, a testament to her familiarity with powerful presences. "The Baal Clan takes pride in its order and traditions, Lord Vergil. I trust the treatment will meet your expectations."
Vergil raised an eyebrow, a subtle smile playing at his lips. "We'll see."
Beside him, Ada appeared tense. Though her expression was calm, Vergil could sense the faint hesitation in her stance. Placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder, he said, "It's all right, Ada. I'm here. You're overthinking it." She gave a silent nod, drawing a bit more confidence from his presence.
Ei observed the interaction with discreet interest but soon turned on her heel, gesturing for them to follow. "Please, come with me. Queen Raphaeline is expecting you."
The gates creaked open slowly, revealing a vast stone path flanked by lush gardens and ponds filled with demonic koi, their scales shimmering in shades of purple and gold. Scattered around were small shrines and statues of demonic figures, each emanating a distinct aura.
Vergil's gaze roamed over the scenery, taking in every detail. "First time here," he remarked casually, though his tone carried a hint of curiosity. "The Baal Clan's domain is quite different from what I imagined."
"The Baal Clan's traditions are deeply rooted in its connection to ancient Japan," Ei explained without turning to face them. "While we are one of the Demon King Clans, our aesthetic and structure maintain respect for the human roots that shaped us. Lady Raphaeline ensures that these traditions are preserved."
"Interesting," Vergil replied, his tone now tinged with intrigue. "Let's see if that preservation extends to her behavior."
Ada shot him a warning glance, but he merely shrugged with a faint smirk. "Just being honest, dear."
At the end of the path, they arrived before an enormous set of shoji doors, intricately decorated with glowing magical runes. Ei turned to face them, bowing once more. "Please wait here while I announce your arrival."
She slid the doors open with a graceful motion and stepped into the main hall, disappearing momentarily.
Vergil turned to Ada, his gaze softening. "Are you ready?"
Ada took a deep breath, her eyes fixed on the entrance. "I'll never be completely ready to face my mother. But with you here, I can endure it."
The doors began to open again, revealing the grand hall. Ei stood inside, poised and waiting to guide them. "Queen Baal will see you now," she said calmly.
'What's with all the formality? She's just a loser trying to buy me off with the sweet and polite demeanor of her maid,' Vergil thought with a smirk.