Before Ansel allowed Heka to step across the threshold of his home, he felt the weight of what that moment truly signified. It was not merely an invitation into a physical space, but the opening of a new gate, one that would lead to uncharted territories in both their lives.
This was the first time Heka would meet Mr McVeigh, a figure both revered and mysterious in Ansel's family. Heka's arrival was no ordinary visit; it was a moment marked by significance, and so they prepared to welcome him.
Despite the calm exterior, Ansel struggled internally. Facing Heka was harder than he had anticipated. To steady himself, he blew a small amount of his blood into the air, a gesture meant to center his spirit and clear his mind.
The vision of the Bloody Marriage, a sacred sign that had always guided him before. The vision remained just out of reach, leaving Ansel feeling unmoored.
He arrived home. Grandpa and Heka were seated comfortably on the back porch, a place of tranquility and reflection. The porch overlooked a small fishing pond, its surface shimmering gently in the breeze.
This meeting was the beginning of something profound, a new chapter that would test their bonds and reveal hidden truths.
Although Ansel had to face Heka directly, a shiver ran down his spine as he sensed the overwhelming aura radiating from him.
Despite the goosebumps prickling his skin, Ansel forced himself to maintain a calm facade. He told himself that everything was unfolding exactly as he had planned, that he was in control of the situation. Yet beneath the surface, a quiet tension simmered.
He didn't want to disappoint Heka. That was the only truth he clung to. More than anything, Ansel wished to prove himself worthy in Heka's eyes.
Meanwhile, Mr McVeigh reached out and gently took Heka's hand on his own. His eyes closed slowly, as if shutting out the world to dive deeper into the essence of Heka's aura.
Ansel's worry grew with every passing second. He placed a tentative hand on Mr McVeigh's shoulder, only to recoil slightly as a sudden chill ran through his fingers. Mr McVeigh 's body felt unnervingly cold.
As the moment stretched on, Heka's aura began to shift dramatically.
Finally, Mr McVeigh opened his eyes and looked at Ansel with a mixture of pride and relief. His voice was calm but carried the weight of profound knowledge. He said softly. "My son, you are so lucky. You are not Shenmorta, but you can accept Soul Delivery. After all, your bedtime will return to normal."
The words struck a chord deep within Heka. A wave of happiness and hope washed over him, easing the tension that had gripped his heart.
He got a new word again. He didn't have any idea what it was. Yet he didn't intend to ask. Just let that word vanish by the time.
Heka, who had been quietly observing, now smiled broadly, with a warm smile that seemed to light up the space around them. He said sincerely, his voice carrying a note of gratitude. "Really, thanks for the help."
Mr McVeigh gripped Heka's hand more tightly, his fingers pressing firmly yet gently, as if to transfer strength and reassurance through touch alone. He said slowly, his voice was low and steady. "But, the price you have to pay is very expensive. Whatever happens to you later, you have to be strong. Remember that."
"Okay I see." Heka nodded curtly, his mind racing with questions and doubts. But there was one burning question he could no longer hold back. "Mr McVeigh, there's one thing I want to ask…"
Before Heka could finish, Mr McVeigh interrupted him with a knowing look. It was clear he anticipated the question, having seen it countless times before. He said with a gentle but firm tone. "It's fair enough and often happens. You're not the only person who has experienced it. It's just that, because you're an ordinary human. You will never be able to find the answer. Because it makes your mind feel restless about what makes you feel worried and frightened."
"What is that? Do you know?" Heka's brow furrowed. he asked, his voice tinged with desperation.
Mr McVeigh's gaze softened, but his words were resolute. "You don't have to think about it. Because you will know the answer soon."
Then Mr McVeigh diverted the conversation to Soul Delivery. He reminded Heka. "Before that, you have to accept Soul Delivery first."
"Hmmm…I already said it." Ansel said, as if trying to convince Heka.
Mr McVeigh nodded, then began to explain the deeper truths behind. "There's a requirement to receive Soul Delivery. You have to half die first. Unfortunately, it's quite difficult because your body looks very healthy."
The words struck Heka like a thunderclap. His expression shifted instantly from calm curiosity to deep concern. His eyes narrowed slightly, and a furrow appeared on his brow as worry crept into his voice. "Does it mean I can't accept Soul Delivery?"
"You don't need to worry about that. Just leave it to me." Ansel said. Ansel chuckled softly, the sound breaking the weighty silence and bringing a subtle warmth to the room.
"Ansel, Mr McVeigh thank you very much." Heka said earnestly. His voice carried a mixture of relief and appreciation, acknowledging the guidance and protection they offered.
Ansel's eyes suddenly brightened as he recalled an important detail. His tone was casual, but the implication was clear. "But you seem to have to sleep over here for a few days."
It was difficult to make other people accept soul delivery if that person was far away. The days to come would be filled with challenges, healing, and transformation. Yet, with Ansel and Grandpa by his side, Heka felt a renewed sense of hope and determination.
Mr McVeigh nodded solemnly, reinforcing Ansel's earlier reassurance with a calm and steady voice. "Ansel is right, it would be better if you were here for a while. After you receive Soul Delivery, you can return to your own house."