Chapter 38: Azazel

Our march up the drive to the main house was thankfully peaceful. As we passed through the gates, we found lush green grass freshly trimmed that rolled over small hills before dipping out of sight into tall trees on either side of the property. The driveway was steep, and curved around on itself several times as if climbing up a cliff face, forcing us to zig zag in our ascent. On the far side of the curbs beside us were various luxurious plants in full bloom, sweet smells lilting from gorgeous hues of blue, pink and lavender bespoke of dedicated attention from a full time gardener.

I began huffing loudly as we made our way, my chest and stomach burning with the effort. Sweat ran freely down my face, stinging my eyes and dripping off the tip of my nose as I began to lag behind the rest of the group.

"Would you like some assistance, Desmond?" Asterion's heavy voice offered as he paused his own ascent, turning his massive stature back to mine.