XVII ~ Anger

Meliodas sprinted down the stairs with Zeldris struggling to keep up. Zeldris tripped on the stairs, going to fast for his own good. Meliodas quickly caught him but didn't stay for long. He looked to Elizabeth, who was struggling in Escanor's grip.

"What happened!?" Meliodas shouted in a panic. Zeldris came up to his side with a fearful look in eyes.

Merlin faced him the angriest look imaginable. "That brother of yours shouted about her past in his drunken stupor! He awakened her curse!" Meliodas cocked his head in confusion. When had this happened?

"When?" Meliodas asked. Estarossa was with him all last night.

"After you fell asleep," King growled. "He woke up when Elizabeth went up to bed and asked began speaking to her about some goddess."

Zeldris wrapped his arms around Meliodas', who was completely frozen. He looked up, worried. Meliodas' usually bright eyes were dull. "I'm sorry..." Zeldris whispered. He didn't know what to say.

"Don't be," Meliodas mumbled. He put his arm around Zeldris, who still held him. "It's not your fault. Besides it's about time to remove the curse anyway."

"And how are you going to do that?" Merlin asked. Her eyes we're filled with rage. It scared Zeldris. He shrunk back at her gaze. "When you first found Zeldris, you activated your assault mode without repercussions."

"I made a deal with the demon king," Meliodas said. "I'll become the next demon lord."

"You will not."

"It's the only way," Meliodas pleaded. "Not to mention I can make sure he'll never hurt Zel and Esta again." Merlin frowned.

"Since when did you care about them?"

Zeldris was pulled back by someone. He looked around and saw Estarossa protectively holding him. Meliodas was seething with anger.

"Excuse me!? I've always cared about them! Whether or not I showed it!"

"I will become the demon king no matter what and I will remove the curse and protect my family!"