The Red Ghoul

ARC III: PART V

John Constantine observed Roy, a flicker of surprise crossing his features as he processed the depth of connection between Roy and Jason. It was unusual for non-magical humans to willingly immerse themselves in such intimate magical bonds, especially with warlocks like Jason. John couldn't help but feel a sense of astonishment at Roy's level of trust and openness.

"Blimey," John muttered under his breath, his gaze lingering on Roy. "You've really let him get under your skin, haven't you?"

Roy met John's gaze with a hint of defiance mixed with a touch of vulnerability. "It's... complicated," he replied, his voice tinged with a mixture of resignation and determination. "Jason and I, we've been through a lot together. Sometimes you have to take risks, even if they involve magic."

John nodded slowly, understanding the weight of Roy's words. Despite the risks, there was a bond between them that transcended ordinary human understanding—a connection forged through shared experiences and mutual trust.

"Well, just be careful, mate," John cautioned, his tone serious. "Magic's a tricky business, and it's easy to get in over your head."

Roy offered a small, grateful smile in response. "I'll keep that in mind, John. Thanks."

As Jason stormed into the living room, his expression a mix of anger and frustration, John sensed the tension in the air. Jason's gaze locked onto him with a fierce intensity, a silent warning against meddling too deeply in matters that didn't concern him.

John raised an eyebrow in response to Jason's glare, unfazed by the warlock's evident displeasure. "Easy there, mate," he said, his tone light but tinged with a hint of amusement. "Just having a chat with our friend Roy here."

Jason's scowl deepened, but before he could retort, John continued, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Speaking of which, perhaps it's time we had a little chat about boundaries and disclosures."

Jason's expression shifted, a flicker of discomfort crossing his features. He glanced at Roy, then back at John, his demeanor tense but begrudgingly attentive.

"As warlocks," John continued, "we have a responsibility to inform non-magical beings before we get involved with them. Saves everyone a lot of future heartbreak, you know."

There was a moment of silence as Jason processed John's words, the weight of their implications sinking in. Finally, he nodded, albeit reluctantly, acknowledging the validity of John's assessment.

"You're right," Jason conceded, his voice subdued. "I should have been more upfront with Roy about the risks involved."

Roy, who had been listening quietly to their exchange, offered a small nod of agreement. "It's okay, Jason," he said, his voice tinged with understanding. "We'll figure it out together."

"John," Jason's voice cut through the air, his brow furrowed with curiosity, as he finally tackled the elephant in the room. "What brings you to Fawcett City? Last I heard, you were dealing with some cursed pyramid in Egypt."

Jason's inquiry about John's unexpected presence in Fawcett City drew a heavy sigh from the seasoned warlock. "Ah, well, seems like there's never a dull moment in my line of work," John remarked with a wry smile. "Got a call from Oracle, seemed urgent."

Jason's concern spiked at the mention of Oracle, his expression shifting to one of heightened attention. "What's going on? Is something wrong with my family back in Gotham?" he asked, his voice tight with worry.

"It's not your family directly, but there's trouble brewing between Gotham and Metropolis," Constantine explained. "Someone's been conducting sacrificial rituals along the ley lines connecting the two cities."