500 Reunion* (1/2)

But somehow, Alicia was glad because she didn't feel that intense fear she always felt around Alexander when his eyes turned this golden. Or maybe, was she less scared around Zeres because she was queen now? Or was it because Zeres was a witch?

Making no movement, Alicia watched him as he focused his gaze forward. She could tell that something had triggered him. Did he already sense Alexander, or was it Abi that triggered something in him, so his eyes turned golden?

Zeres moved, but Alicia was quick to block him. ”Wait, Zeres!” she placed her hands on his chest to stop his advance. The man looked at her, his eyes still alert and the golden hue in his eyes was dancing in chaos.

”I could sense someone nearby,” he said.

”Someone?”

”Mm. I feel strange. I suddenly feel like my blood is boiling. Let me go see who it is.”

He moved again, but Alicia held on to him.

”Wait.” She told him, firmly. But this time, the man didn't seem to hear her and tried to dodge Alicia. Without a choice, Alicia grabbed his collars and pulled him close, forcing him to look at her. She was surprised by her own bold move. Even if Zeres was a witch, she knew he was undoubtedly like Alexander. There might be some gap in power between them, but Zeres was indeed powerful. Who knows if he would lose himself and go berserk like Alexander? And yet, here she was, grabbing a dangerous creature's collar like this.

”Listen to me first, Zeres.” She pressed, trying her best to keep her calm.

The man gladly halted and stared back at her, so Alicia immediately continued. ”Whatever you will see and find out, please promise you will stay calm, okay?” she pleaded.

For the first time since they met, Alicia looked at him with genuine concern. Her gaze on him no longer hard and doubtful.

But deep lines appeared on his forehead upon hearing her words, and he looked at her with questioning eyes.

”Don't ask me why right now. Just promise me you won't start a fight. I mean, whatever happens, please don't fight anyone. Just do your best to stay calm and don't do anything rash, understand? I assure you, everything will be alright if we do this peacefully. Yes?”

Alicia's effort and the way she spoke to him at that moment somehow made the atmosphere less heavy. His hand softly landed on her head, causing Alicia to freeze in surprise again. She didn't expect him to do that. And why was he doing that to her, anyway?!

His eyes didn't return to its normal silver hue, so Alicia didn't dare drop her guard down. ”Please stay behind me.” She told him, and when the man nodded, they finally moved forward. She could do nothing now but hope that this reunion will not cause a disaster.