Crowley's expression finally changed.
The source of Hell.
It was the foundation that sustained the entire Hell dimension, the underlying law of demonic existence, and the ultimate collateral for all demon contracts.
To swear upon the source of Hell, the price of breaking one's oath was not death, but the backlash of Hell itself—annihilation more complete than death.
"Lohr," Crowley said in a low voice. For the first time, he did not use the honorific "President." "You've gone too far. I, Crowley, have always kept my word. For centuries, no one has dared question my—"
"There is now," Wu Heng said.
He looked at Crowley.
There was no anger in his gaze, no mockery, not even the superior condescension expected of a victor. He merely examined him calmly, as though confirming whether the terms of a contract were complete.
Crowley fell silent beneath that gaze for five seconds.
Five seconds later, he lowered his head.
"...With the source of Hell as witness," he said, the words seeming to squeeze out through clenched teeth. "I, Crowley, King of Hell, swear this oath."
"All demons under Hell's command will immediately withdraw to this dimension and return to their positions within twelve hours."
"Until the Demon Hunter Guild resolves the angelic threat, Hell will not set foot in the human world."
"If any demon violates this order and enters the human world without permission, the Demon Hunter Guild may deal with them as it sees fit. Hell will not hold them accountable."
He paused, his throat bobbing as he swallowed centuries of arrogance.
"The oath is made."
The instant his words fell, a deep roar sounded from the depths of the Hell palace, as though it had risen from the very foundations of the earth.
It was the source of Hell responding to