Barbatos stood still, observing the doors that dotted the wall of the room. Each of them was a portal to a specific moment in time and space, and he knew them well. Through these doors, he had witnessed epic battles, cruel betrayals, and moments of triumph.
But today, a new door had appeared. One he had never seen before. It emanated a strange energy, a sensation that made him shudder. Barbatos approached, his hand hesitant on the knob. He knew this door was different. It wouldn't take him to a past or future event, but to something deeper, more personal.
The door swung open, revealing a scene he instantly recognized. It was Rachel, a mysterious figure he had not yet met. She stood before him, with a determined look in her eyes. A shiver ran down his spine. This was the moment she would make her first demonic pact.
But how could he know this? Recognize Rachel before even meeting her? A voice echoed in his mind, his own, but from a distant future. "Barbatos," the voice whispered. "This is the moment. Make the pact with Rachel. It's crucial to our destiny."
Barbatos frowned, perplexed. He had no memories of this vision, couldn't remember seeing Rachel before. But the voice insisted. "Rachel Desmonte," the voice continued. "She is the key to the future of the demon realm. Make the pact with her, guide her, and protect her. The fate of all of us depends on it."
Waking from the memories that enveloped him like a veil, Barbatos found himself back in reality, in the vast library of RAD. The solemn silence of the surroundings contrasted with the agitation of his past visions, but he knew something unusual had occurred. A sense of urgency drove him as his memories slowly dissipated, leaving behind only a subtle echo of his presence.
Closing the recipe book in his hands, he took a deep breath, seeking clarity amidst the confusion. Walking among the shelves, he tried to unravel the puzzles haunting his mind. Fragments of the vision assaulted him, mixing with the murmurs of the ancient books surrounding him, creating a whirlwind of thoughts.
Finally, a flash of understanding hit him as his eyes met Rachel's, standing before him with an inquisitive expression. She still didn't fully understand what was happening, but Barbatos knew it was time to act. With renewed determination, he reached out his hand to her, ready to embark on the journey that was about to change the course of their lives.
"Miss Desmont," he said, his voice firm and soft like a whisper, conflicting with the intensity of his gaze. "It's time for us to make a pact."