497 Cruel*

The atmosphere was rigid, so intense it was almost suffocating.

Everyone was stiff as they waited for Zeres' response.

"Zeres, don't listen to her. Come to me now!" Dinah's voice reached Abi's ears. She was speaking to Zeres with such an oppressive tone, as if Zeres was some lowly beast under her command and control.

Abi swallowed. Unease had filled her heart as she stared at Zeres' back.

"Please, Zeres. Don't–"

Before Abi could even complete her statement, Zeres took another step. Abi's eyes widen, and her stretched out hand trembled a little.

"Zeres! Don't go!" she yelled. She moved to run after him, but Alex grabbed her arm, stopping her.

Despite Abi's call for him, Zeres never looked back again until he disappeared along with the creatures in the black cloak.

Abi's hand fell on her side, and everyone fell silent. Alex's face was emotionless while Alicia just stood there, quietly closing her eyes.