Chapter 8: A Devil's Due

In the aftermath of his victory over Felix Faust, Constantine returned to his grimy abode, the weight of his actions settling upon him. He had made a deal with the devil, and now it was time to collect his reward.

As Constantine sat in his dimly lit study, the air heavy with the scent of old parchment and brewing tobacco, a flicker of light caught his eye. From the depths of his shadow, a figure emerged, tall and imposing, with an aura of power that sent a shiver down Constantine's spine.

"Lucifer Morningstar," Constantine acknowledged, his voice laced with a mix of respect and apprehension.

"John Constantine," Lucifer replied, his voice a smooth baritone that echoed with otherworldly resonance. "I believe we have a business transaction to conclude."

Constantine nodded, recalling their agreement. He had successfully eliminated Felix Faust, and in return, Lucifer had promised him information about Beelzebul's whereabouts on Earth.

Lucifer, true to his word, revealed the location of Beelzebub's hidden lair – a desolate wasteland in the heart of the Sahara Desert. Constantine knew that this would be a dangerous mission, but he was also aware that Beelzebul's presence posed a significant threat to the world.

With Lucifer's information in hand, Constantine prepared for his journey. He packed his trusty trench coat, an arsenal of mystical artifacts, and a flask of his favorite whiskey, the devil's due for his services.

As Constantine ventured into the heart of the Sahara, the scorching heat and relentless sandstorms tested his endurance. He battled monstrous sand creatures, navigated treacherous dunes, and braved the oppressive silence of the desert, his determination fueled by the knowledge that the fate of the world rested on his shoulders.

Finally, after days of perilous travel, Constantine reached Beelzebul's lair – a colossal, obsidian fortress that emanated an aura of darkness and despair. He braced himself for the confrontation that lay ahead, knowing that he faced a formidable opponent, a demon lord whose power rivaled that of Lucifer himself.