FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Alexander & Mina

Flashback! Evening of Sola 24

Mina had hoped the carnival would be a welcome distraction from the tumultuous events of earlier that day. The vibrant lights, cheerful laughter, and the tempting aroma of sweet treats offered a brief respite from her troubled mind. She felt a mix of apprehension and determination, knowing she needed a break from the constant stress.

As she stood in line for a funnel cake, Mina tried to focus on the simple joy of the moment. She told herself that indulging in a sugary treat might lift her spirits, even if just for a little while. Yet, the recent heartbreak and the dark confrontation with her uncle weighed heavily on her. She felt an ache in her chest, a mixture of sadness and anger, but she was determined to find some semblance of happiness tonight.

Finally, she received her funnel cake and stepped aside to request more honey and powdered sugar. The attendant obliged, and Mina turned to leave, her mind still clouded with the day's events. Lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice the person in front of her until it was too late.

She bumped into someone, her funnel cake smashing against her chest, leaving her cleavage covered with honey and powdered sugar. "Oh my goodness, I am so sorry!" She exclaimed, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment as she dabbed at her chest with a napkin.

Glancing up, she was mortified to realize the person she had collided with was none other than Alexander. Recognizing him made the situation even more embarrassing, especially with that startled and guilty look on his face.

"Well," she said with a wry smile, trying to make light of the situation.

Well? He met her uneasy smile with one that so easily gave away his desire for her.

"I suppose this is one way to ensure I won't go unnoticed tonight." She continued to dab at her chest, her blush deepening. "I guess I'm just sweetening the deal for everyone here."

“Mina. Look at me.” Alexander instructed as he took her hand. “Allow me to assist you… without giving these people such a show.” He nodded toward a space between two smaller tents. “We can share my funnel cake.” He had been in the middle of his order after all. He turned to face the attendant at the funnel cake stand. “I would like to order what she had, please.”

Mina's eyes were drawn to their joined hands, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver through her. She then followed his instructions and looked up to meet his gaze, the desire in his eyes clear and unmistakable. Despite the embarrassment, or perhaps because of it, she felt a surge of boldness. Maybe this was the distraction she needed, a way to forget her troubles, even if only for a little while.

"Wishing to keep the show all to yourself, Mr. Deacon?" she teased, her voice light and flirtatious. "I suppose I can't blame you for that. Besides, who am I to refuse such a generous offer?"

“Now there’s the Mina I met at the brunch” Alexander briefly faced her before his freehand reached out to grab the new freshly-made funnel cake. “It’s absolutely perfect.”

Her playful smile returned as she glanced towards the space between the two smaller tents. The idea of sharing his funnel cake, away from the prying eyes of the carnival-goers, was more appealing than she cared to admit.

"Lead the way," she said, her tone both inviting and mischievous. "I'm curious to see how well you handle sticky situations."

“Curious? Really?” He guided her by hand toward the tents with a grin. “Are you sure it's not excitement, Lady Blackwood?” It's exactly what he felt as hid the clenching of his jaw from her view.

"Well, excitement is just curiosity dressed up for a night out isn't it?" He continued to lead her, to tents, to space between them… through the space between them, before turning the corner to hide them from watchful eyes. For a brief moment, Mina wondered to herself how wise of a decision she was actually making. To follow a man she barely knew to a secluded place definitely seemed unwise, however she supposed situations like this were why she’d decided to take precautions and cast a small protection spell on herself before she’d left.

The moment he stopped he looked down upon her with a soft gaze. “What first?”

"Well," she began, her voice a sultry whisper, "I suppose we should start with cleaning up this mess." She gestured to the sticky remnants of the funnel cake on her chest, her blush deepening just a touch.

"Or perhaps you'd prefer to make more of a mess before we clean up?" she added, her tone daring and flirtatious, challenging him to take the lead. Just like the garden brunch, Mina lured him in. Lured Alexander in without knowing what he was.

There was silence between them as he kept from replying with words and instead gazed into her eyes. He slightly clenched his jaw, as he felt his desire for her spike in this moment. Alone, unafraid, teeming with opportunity.

He guided her hand in his grasp to the plated funnel cake, silently urging her to hold it so he could free both his hands. His eyes never left hers, his intentions becoming ever clearer as the silence persisted.

Then with a grin he leaned in, his right cheek against hers as he whispered back to Mima. Her breath hitched from the warmth of his skin.

“I don't see a mess, Mina… I see a beautiful woman. I feel her warmth against my cheek.”

His face trailed down to her neck, nearly burying into it. . “I smell her alluring fragrance… with a touch of honey.” A quiet chuckle escaped his lips, slightly tickling against her skin while sending shivers down her spine.

She closed her eyes for a brief moment, savoring the sensations his words and touch elicited. Her hand tightened around the plate of funnel cake, the warmth of his breath and the huskiness of his voice igniting a spark of desire within her.

With her hand stuck holding the funnel cake, Alexander shifted himself to her right side. The funnel cake would not be an obstacle for him. His sights were now on her bosom. He leaned in but paused to make eye contact once more. He needed not a word. Her eyes, her lips, her entire visage dare not betray her now.

Mina opened her eyes, her heart pounding in her chest. The intensity in his eyes was matched by her own, and a daring smirk curved her lips.

"Well, Alexander," she whispered, her voice a sultry purr, "I suppose it's only fair to let you indulge your sweet tooth." Her smirk deepened, a playful glint in her eyes. "Just be careful not to get too carried away. We wouldn't want to cause a scene now, would we?"

Her words hung in the air between them, a tantalizing promise and a challenge all rolled into one. She did more than she needed to provoke his response.

Alexander's eyes left Mina's, his attention on the sugar and honey only a few inches from his face. He was both careful and diligent as he consumed the sweetness from her bosom. The corner of his mouth upturned as he indulged, yet temptation beat against his very being. For Alexander, licking honey from off of Mina was delectable but it could never rival sinking his teeth into her. For his fangs to break her skin and consume the warm nectar in her veins. It's much too soon…. Unfortunate.

Mina's bit at her bottom lip as Alexander's lips and tongue grazed her skin, the warmth of his touch sending shivers down her spine. Her smirk remained, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of vulnerability. The sensation was intoxicating, his closeness almost overwhelming, but she held her ground, her resolve mingling with the undeniable attraction she felt.

"Enjoying yourself?" she teased softly, her voice barely more than a breath. She tilted her head slightly, giving him better access, her daring gaze never leaving his. "I have to admit, this is a rather unconventional way to spend an evening at the carnival. Though I’m certainly not complaining." Her eyes sparkled with mischief, even as her pulse quickened. She knew she was playing with fire, but for the first time in a long while, the distraction was exactly what she needed.

But then he suddenly stopped and his eyes peered up at her. Alexander exhaled silently but the feeling of his breath against her moistened chest gave away its existence. Just like the sigh, his intentions were laid bare with his expression. There were no words yet the longing look in his eyes communicated a shameless desire for her. Love was absent in his gaze, or perhaps it was simply stripped down and subjected to only one of its parts. A feeling so amplified between them, that they might soon forget the setting in which they stood. It was intense. It was primal! It was tempting! It was unyielding. It was…

Passion.

Alexander's gaze fell on Mina's exposed neck pulsing with excitement.

“How about a taste without the sugar and honey?” It was not much of a question as he already inched closer, his mouth parting just before his lips pressed against her neck.

Mina’s gaze held the same lustful desire, devoid of any actual meaningful emotion. "A taste without the sugar and honey, hmm?" she echoed, her voice a sultry whisper. "Bold move, Mr. Deacon." Her hand reached up to gently thread her fingers through his hair, guiding him closer as she pressed her body into him.

Her other hand still held the funnel cake, but it was forgotten, her focus entirely on the man in front of her. She tilted her head, offering him better access to her neck, her lips curving into a teasing smile. "But you should know, Alexander," she breathed, her voice low and seductive, "you might find that I'm even more irresistible without the added sweetness." The challenge in her eyes was clear, a blend of mischief and raw passion that left no room for hesitation.

As his lips made contact with her skin, a soft gasp escaped her, her eyes fluttering closed again. She reveled in the sensation, her fingers tightening in his hair. The distraction was exactly what she needed, a way to lose herself in the moment and forget the pain that had been haunting her. For now, all that mattered was the fire igniting between them.

Restraint was such a far cry now, drifting further and further away as the lustful entangled with the temptress. Mina had successfully lured and reeled in her catch. It was not just a nibble on her bait. She had him. There was nowhere for him to escape to now… yet, the same could be said of her. Alexander was not just another fish and the bait was not entirely what he desired. The woman's eyes shut with satisfaction, blinding herself to the shark's many rows of teeth. He kissed upon her neck, keeping her paralyzed in the moment. There was nowhere for her to escape now…

…..
…..
…..
…..

A sharp prick of pain set upon Mina's neck. The contact of Alexander's fangs was veiled by tongue and lips.

A sudden shock gripped Mina as her eyes flew open. The world seemed to slow, and the funnel cake slipped from her grasp, landing with a soft thud on the ground. Instead of panicking, freezing, or screaming, a laugh bubbled up from within her, a sound that was both incredulous and bitter. Alexander slowed and lightened his intensity as the laugh pulled him slightly from his moment of ecstasy. Still he persisted in his indulgence.

The sensation. It was so familiar to her, the icy shard of pain fading into a throbbing numbness. She had felt it against her wrists many times before, but never like this. This was frightening and almost comforting all at the same time. Tears threatened to fall, welling up in her eyes as she tried to process the conflicting emotions swirling inside her.

Her laugh quieted, turning into a soft, almost resigned chuckle. "Well, isn't this just fitting for me," she whispered, her voice both barely audible and also left unnoted by Alexander. The irony of it all was not lost on her. She had been playing with fire, and now she was getting burned in a way she hadn't anticipated.

Mina's fingers tightened in Alexander's hair, not in pleasure but in a mix of defiance and acceptance. She had lured him in, and now she was caught in her own web. The spell she had cast on herself screamed at her and tried to push the man away, but Mina tried to push back at it. No, perhaps she deserved this and she didn't want her magic getting in the way. Hoping its effects would cease was just that. A hope. A wish. Mina's desires had no bearing on Alexander feeling himself being pulled away from Mina. He instinctively wrapped his arms around her but felt something solid between them. The unnaturalness of what was occuring caused him to come to a complete halt. Tears threatened to spill over as Mina closed her eyes, bracing herself for whatever was to come next.

Alexander let loose a heavy sigh into the crook of her neck.

“You have to be fucking kidding me right now, Mina. Magic?” He whispered in a neutral tone.

Mina felt a wave of frustration and self-loathing wash over her. She had cast the protection spell on herself earlier, never anticipating it would interfere in a moment like this. The irony of her own magic betraying her stung almost as much as Alexander's fangs. With a sigh, she wiped at her damp eyes angrily..

"Of all the times for my own magic to kick in," she muttered, a mix of irritation and regret in her voice. "I suppose I can't even have this one reckless moment without my spells meddling." She glanced up at him, her eyes filled with a bitter amusement but his expression remained stoic. His eyes wouldn't meet hers as he remained deep in thought. "Trust me, I didn't plan for this either. I’d love nothing more that to let you continue and let myself just drift away from this world."

Drift away from this world? These words were successful in drawing his gaze but also causing a half step back, their bodies finally disconnected from each other.

Mina sighed again, the moment of vulnerability not entirely gone but now laced with the sharp edge of disappointment. "I guess you can't always get what you want," she added softly, more to herself than to Alexander.

“What?” Alexander played ignorant. She wore an amused expression and briefly shook his head. “I think you've lost me. You have a protective barrier… to keep you from harm? But…” He tilted his head toward a slowly forming bruise on her neck with a pair of the tiniest beads of blood forming on it. “Is it really so sensitive? Then again… the craft isn't for everyone. At least that's what I hear.” He winked.

Mina raised a brow, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips despite the mix of frustration and weariness in her eyes. "What’s the matter, Alexander? Not used to something, or someone, getting in your way?" Her voice was laced with teasing sarcasm, though it lacked the usual sharpness she might wield. She crossed her arms lightly, tilting her head toward him. He gave her a guilty shrug, still wearing his charm.

With a softer sigh, she continued, "Let’s just say it’s an occupational hazard of having an overly cautious and, at times, downright possessive uncle. Add that to years of having 'safety measures' drilled into my head, and, well... old habits die hard." Her fingers lightly brushed the edge of her neck where his bite had been, leaving the slightest smear of blood in their wake, her tone dipping into something more resigned. "Weaker or not, it’s just part of the package. Lucky you, huh?" She offered him a dry smile, masking the turmoil still stirring inside her.

“Oh, Mina. You can't be prepared for everything. I mean…” Though caught off guard by the revelations unraveling, Alexander found humor in this moment. He chuckled lightly before continuing. “Neither of us could have expected that secrets would be the thing to flow out when I sunk my teeth into you.” He grinned while carefully reaching out to her blood-stained hand. “So your uncle is the mage who casted this barrier? Any enemies I should be aware of? I would hate to find more surprises behind these tents.”

Mina allowed Alexander to take her hand, her fingers trembling ever so slightly before she steadied herself. Her smirk wavered but didn't disappear entirely as she pondered his words. "I suppose in a sense he made sure the spell was cast…" she replied cryptically, her tone light, though the weight of her own unspoken truths lingered behind her words. ”I shall answer your last question, but if you wish to know more of my secrets then I shall require secrets for secrets, answers for answers. It's only fair, don't you think?” Her grin turned playful, yet there was a fire in her eyes that hinted at more.

She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping lower. "As for enemies…" she trailed off, her smirk faltering. "My uncle has a rather… peculiar perspective on that. To him, anyone I grow close to becomes an enemy, a threat. He’s quick to deal with them, one way or another." Her voice turned sharp, tinged with bitterness. "It doesn’t matter who they are, or what they mean to me. If he thinks they’ll take me away from him, they’re as good as gone."

Mina sighed, brushing her fingers of her free hand through her hair as if trying to shake off the weight of the topic. "I’m tired of letting him control my life, of letting his paranoia decide who I can or can’t trust. Especially after today, after what he forced me to do." Her voice cracked ever so slightly at the last words, but she quickly straightened her posture, forcing her playful grin back. "But enough about him. You’ll be fine, Alexander. My uncle’s not here—tonight, at least. You’re safe for now… unless, of course, you’re afraid of me?" Her grin sharpened, teasing once more, but the faint glimmer of pain in her eyes remained.

“Afraid? No. Perhaps… slightly concerned.” He frowned slightly before giving her hand a squeeze. The comforting action was disguised as a means to test the magical barrier that had stopped his advances on her. “You’re trying to smile through the pain. From such a fresh wound at that.” He pulled a handkerchief from his breast-pocket and wiped the blood from her fingers before dabbing the cloth on her neck. “If you're sad, be sad. If you're angry, be that. I won't mind. As you said, your uncle isn't here tonight. You're safe for now… ‘unless of course’...” He let her words, repeated, hang while giving her a slight smile. “But perhaps you still consider me a stranger, yes?”

Mina felt it, the faint resistance of the barrier as Alexander’s hand squeezed hers. It was weaker this time, barely a ripple of magic pushing back against him. She took note of it silently, her gaze briefly flicking to where their hands joined, but she said nothing. It was still on high alert, almost as if it had a mind of its own. It wouldn't last forever, however. It couldn't, not unless she wanted to face some major consequences. No, eventually the spell would fall and she would be vulnerable once more.

Her lips quirked into a sly smile, her fingers curling around his as if she could tether herself to the moment and avoid slipping into her own storm. "A stranger? Hardly. A bit of a mystery? Maybe." She teased, tilting her head just enough to let his hand linger on her neck. "But don’t think for a second that I scare that easily." Her voice was light, playful, though the faint edge of deflection clung to it like a shadow.
“Good. It would be a shame if you did. I aim to be charming after all.” Alexander winked while returning the handkerchief to his pocket. “And… what would you like to know about me? We ought to get to know each other if we intend to continue meeting like this. Barrier or not, I’m still very interested in you, Lady Mina Blackwood.” If Alexander was being honest, he was more interested in what she wanted to know about himself. Mina was indeed full of surprises.

"Indeed we should." Mina said with a smirk, her tone as smooth as silk. She tilted her head slightly, studying him for a moment as if deciding where to aim her first question. There were so many things she wanted to ask, so many mysteries about Alexander she wanted to unravel, but where was the fun in diving straight into the obvious? No, she’d start somewhere subtle, something that could reveal far more than it seemed on the surface.

Her smirk softened into something more thoughtful, her fingers lightly tapping against his hand as if mulling over her words. Finally, she spoke. "Alright, let’s start with this, if you could choose any one thing to protect above all else, what would it be? Not just something you'd die for, but something you'd live for, no matter the cost."
Her question caused Alexander to arch an eyebrow but he maintained his look of interest.
“Intrinsic.” He commented before briefly peering upward as he thought of what his answer might be to such a question. Once his eyes returned to Mina’s he answered. “My wife, Lianna…but that’s obvious. I already protect her above all else. I live for her and if it came to it, I’d for her all the same.” His grin widened. “However, if I had to choose something else, I would say… the ability to express passion. It's something I treasure and something I fear losing.”

Mina blinked, her smirk faltering for the briefest of moments at the mention of his wife. She had almost forgotten he was married. Her expression quickly returned to its playful demeanor, but there was a flicker of something dancing behind her eyes. Surprise? Intrigue? Or was it something else entirely?

"Lianna,” she repeated softly, almost as if testing the name on her tongue. ”Your wife truly is lucky to have someone so devoted to her. It feels like a far-off dream to find someone that devoted.” Something in her screamed angrily. You had it! You had it and you gave it up! A part of her heart cracked as Munir’s face flashed before her briefly. Her jaw clenched ever so slightly as she turned away from Alexander and glanced up at the night sky. Alexander also gave it look though, his attention easily returned to Mina. To him, even the moon and stars paled in comparison. To him, she could be revealed to be much greater.

"Passion, though... that's an interesting choice. It says a lot about you, Alexander.” She mused, thinking on it for a moment. ”Most would pick something more... predictable. Power, immortality…But you? You went the poetic route. With both answers, actually."

Her lips curled into a thoughtful smile as she turned her head back to him, her gaze locking onto his. "Passion is a double-edged sword, though, don’t you think? It can inspire greatness, but it can also destroy just as easily. I wonder..." She paused, but then shook her head. ”No, I'll wait to ask that. A question for a question is what I said, I believe. So, I guess it's your turn. What would you like to know about me?” Alexander did not budge, his expression unchanging and difficult to read as he kept up his warm welcoming disposition.

“Of course… What do you wish for most for this courting season? What are you searching for here in Sorian?” Alexander let the question hang before continuing. “And you’re absolutely correct about passion. It can be lovely or deadly to those who desire its embrace but it is a risk I can either live with. Life is meant to be lived as I see it.”

Mina let out a soft chuckle, though there was a weight behind it. "Now that's not a simple answer, I'm afraid," she said, her tone light but carrying an undercurrent of honesty. "First and foremost, I’m just hoping to survive…or I was. But beyond that…" She paused, searching for the right words. "I’m hoping to find answers." Her voice softened, almost thoughtful. “About myself, about things that have been kept from me…and about the supernatural.”
“Hmm, very interesting.”
Her eyes searched his, wondering how he'd react to her answer. Could he help her? "I suppose it's my turn again. What’s the boldest risk you’ve ever taken? Something you weren’t sure you’d survive, but you went through with it anyway."
“Now that… is a difficult one to answer but I'm sure this will suffice.” Alexander's eyes lowered slightly. “I think you could relate, actually. In the past, I… was once stricken with grief when I figured out the man I was fated to be. I wanted to run from it. Escape from cards life dealt me. I did not want to change into… who I might become.” His eyes then met hers. “I aimed to end myself.” He shrugged. She winced slightly at his words, but continued to listen. “It was the only way to stop what I feared from becoming. Looking back now, it's quite silly but sad as well. What is a firstborn prince left to do if he fears the throne?” He let the question hang in the air. “He only has three options. Die… accept the hell that he fears… or he can strive to change what it means to be a king. I aimed for the last, holding tightly onto everything I love till this day and doing everything I can to defeat the inevitable.”

Mina’s playful demeanor faded entirely as she listened, her gaze softening with something that could be translated into understanding. She remained silent for a long moment, her eyes locked on his as if searching for the truth behind his words. When she finally spoke, her voice was quieter, stripped of its usual mischief. "I understand that kind of battle more than I’d care to admit," she said, her words measured. "Being caught between the person you were, the person others expect you to be, and the person you want to become… It’s exhausting, isn’t it? Like no matter which path you take, you lose a part of yourself in the process."

“Yes, exactly that.” Alexander nodded in agreement

She glanced down, her fingers idly brushing the fabric of her dress as though grounding herself. "I’m still trying to figure out which path to take," she admitted softly, a flicker of vulnerability flashing in her eyes before she looked back at him. "But… it sounds like you found a way to hold on to what matters. That’s no small thing, Alexander." Her lips curved into a faint, bittersweet smile, a trace of warmth returning to her expression. "I’d say that’s worth admiring."

“Hmm, perhaps.” His tone was purposely doubtful. “I actually believe your uncle and myself have that in common. Where you see control, he sees holding onto you for dear life. I mean, why not just keep you from traveling to Sorian in the first place? It's obvious he wants you to remain close to him.” Alexander took a step closer to her. “Holding on to you so tightly that it's suffocating. A safehouse modeled after a jail cell. A cage to keep you safe. A love that only gives rise to resentment.” He leaned in and kissed her where he had slightly bit her previously. “My turn.” He whispered. “What do you think I desire from you?”

Mina tensed slightly at his words, her fingers curling into the fabric of her dress. Her smirk didn’t return, though a flicker of something sharp and defiant lit up her gaze. "I’ve never liked cages, no matter how gilded they are," she said softly, her voice steady but laced with a quiet bitterness. "A safehouse, a prison… it doesn’t matter what you call it. It’s still a place where freedom is just an illusion. And I’ve had enough of that to last me a lifetime."
“I can't disagree with that,” he whispered.
She tilted her head slightly then, studying him, her lips curving into a faint smirk, though it lacked her usual playful bite. "But to answer your question… I haven’t quite worked that out yet." She leaned into him and tilted her head to expose her neck to him, a thoughtful look flickering across her face. If he wished to try and bite her again she figured he could certainly try and she wouldn't stop him. He may even succeed this time, but either way she wasn't afraid of him. "The simplest answer would be… well, obvious. Pleasure, distraction, maybe even a game. Men have pursued me for far less, after all."
His eyebrows raised slightly in delight at her subtle offering of herself to him. Her discerning of his thirst further piqued his interest in Mina. Slowly, everything began to piece together. A clear path to what he wanted with only a single obstacle in his way.
Her gaze lingered on him, her tone taking on a quieter, more probing quality. "Or perhaps I'm just a desired snack and nothing more. But somehow, I don’t think it’s just that. There’s something more, isn’t there? Maybe you see me as a challenge, or maybe you see someone who reminds you of yourself. Or…" she paused, her smirk returning, sharper this time, "maybe I’m entirely wrong, and you’ll just have to enlighten me."
“I would never harm you, Mina. I will never cage you either. Trust in that. Trust in…” He leaned further kissing her on the same spot once more. “...in me.” Alexander’s fangs popped and this time he refused to do so lightly.

Mina let out a low, breathy chuckle. "I won’t harm you…trust in me," she echoed softly, her tone dripping with wry amusement. "Says the vampire about to drink my blood." And there it was. She finally named what he was, confirmed her own knowledge of them. Her smirk returned, faint and sharp, as she leaned into him–an invitation.

Her fingers tightened against the fabric of her dress, not in fear but in focus. Silently, she reached out to the barrier that had protected her for so long, the one that had resisted him. She felt it ripple beneath her will, trembling at her command to weaken, to let him in. It was dangerous, reckless even, but she wasn’t running from the consequences anymore.

Her voice dropped to a whisper as she spoke, almost as if to herself. "I do hope I'm as delectable as you anticipate me to be." She closed her eyes, exhaling slowly as the faint hum of her spell dissipated, her body bracing for whatever came next.
“Shh…” Alexander hushed his eyes excited by the anticipation. He took a deep inhale and then sank his fangs into her. Mina’s breath hitched as his fangs pierced her skin, a sharp pain giving way to an odd, warm sensation that spread through her like fire and ice. Her fingers instinctively clenched at his shirt, the world around her starting to tilt. Was it from the blood loss, or the aftermath of her spell breaking down? She had a feeling it was likely the latter. As the blood enveloped Alexander's taste buds, his eyes widened ever more upon tasting its warm deliciousness. It took every bit of effort to remember he wanted to keep her alive as temptation pulled at him to suck her dry. Her pulse seemed to echo in her ears, each beat feeling heavier than the last, and the pull of his bite was as intoxicating as it was draining.
Alexander often wondered how blood could be so delectable in some more than others. Was it their diet? Their lineage? Blood type? Personality? Or perhaps it was simply a roll of the dice.
Alexander grasped Mina’s hand, a means to measure how much blood he was allowed to syphon from her. It would be a shame if he left her too weak to even walk… at least in this setting.
"Alexander," she murmured, her voice softer now, tinged with a faint edge of warning. She wasn’t sure if he even heard her through the haze of his feeding. "I can only hold him back for so long." The words spilled out, unbidden and cryptic, her mind too muddled to craft an explanation. Her uncle–the vampire she was blood bonded to–would sense this, and eventually, he would come…especially if he started sending her life waning. Mina doubted Alexander would appreciate the implications of another vampire having a claim on her.
She leaned into him more now, a brief wave of weakness washing over her, still convinced it was the consequences of her spell and would fade soon. "Sorry…that was more enigmatic sounding than I intended," she added, a soft laugh leaving her. As if in response, the blood bond seemed to attempt to push back at Alexander.
“There…” Alexander breathed. “That was… much better than expected, Mina.” He held Mina close to him to ensure she remained up on her feet. “Perhaps we should find some place more comfortable.” Alexander licked her wound. “My appetite has shifted to something else.”
Her vision swam slightly, but she couldn’t quite suppress the playful glint in her eyes as she looked up at him. Her breath was shallow, still feeling the lingering effects of his bite, but her lips curled into a teasing smile. "Better than expected? Well, that's a relief. Would have been a shame if I were disappointing." She murmured, her tone flirty. "But now… I’m curious to see what else you’re hungry for." Mina gave a slight tilt of her head, the faintest challenge in her voice as she leaned into him. She could feel the haze beginning to clear some, her strength coming back, but she decided to feign a bit of weakness still. Let him believe she was more vulnerable, at least for the time being. "Lead the way, Alexander. I’m all yours... for now."
Yes, let me show what it means to belong to me. He smirked charmingly… or was it wickedly?

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Alexander and Charlotte

Part 1

Time: 11am Sola 28
Location: Art gallery
Mention: @Tpartywithzombi Violet @ReusableSword Roman

---

As the clock struck eleven and the sun moved further into the center of the sky, Alexander’s shoes touched ground as he stepped out of the carriage that delivered him to the front of the Sorian Art Gallery in a suit he found fitting for the occasion. One might say it was the reflection of his beating heart, steel and black.

“Ahhh. What a marvelous day for a date so lovely.” He commented to himself as his eyes took in the crowd. All of the bodies, all of their faces… they meant nothing to him in this moment. There was only one person on his mind. Just one. Where are you my dove? Where are you, Charlotte?

As if on cue, Charlotte appeared at the entrance, stepping gracefully toward the front of the grand building. Her gaze rose to take in the towering stone structure before her—large, arched windows framed by ornate stonework and statues that lined the entrance, their intense gazes seemingly welcoming her into the gallery.

Her dress was a blend of pastel blue and white with a sweetheart neckline. The blue floral lightweight fabric came down from the design at the waist, layered over the thicker white fabric beneath. Her hair was pulled back into a low ponytail, secured with a pale blue ribbon as per tradition.

Then their eyes met. Alexander couldn't help but smile in Charlotte's direction. Pure beauty… My king, you have no idea what you've gifted me. With a look of delight, Alexander walked excitedly to Charlotte taking her hands in his own.

“You made it! I can't begin to express how wonderful it is to finally make your acquaintance, Lady Vikena. Thank you.” He nearly fawned over her.

Charlotte's cheeks flushed a soft pink at his words. She cleared her throat, lifting her chin slightly to meet his gaze, though her eyes still held a certain shyness.

"Th-The pleasure is mine, Mr Deacon," she said, her voice gentle but touched with the sweetness of a woman who found herself a little off balance.. "It is an honor for you to speak of me in such a way.” With a delicate curtsy, she then added, “Thank you for the courteous invitation.”

“I wouldn't have had it any other way. And just Alexander is fine Lady Vikena. What we're doing here today should feel comfortable.” He offered his hand.

“Ah, well in that case, Charlotte is just fine as well,” she replied with a gentle smile, her eyes briefly meeting his as she took his hand. “I must admit, I’m most eager to see Milo St. Claire’s work in person. His pieces have always captivated me with their depth. His ability to capture the essence of a fleeting moment… it’s as if you can feel the weight of the emotions in each brushstroke.”

“What a pleasure. You’re familiar with his work,” Alexander’s smile couldn't help but grow upon knowing Charlotte was a fan of the arts.

Walking alongside her, with a slightly firm grasp of her hand, Alexander couldn't help but steal glances at her.

Though she had kept her eyes ahead for the most part, Charlotte could feel the way Alexander’s eyes lingered on her. It was an unwelcome familiarity, however her expression didn’t falter.

“I have to admit that I've only had the chance to see a few of his pieces. A busy man isn't afforded enough time to enjoy things like this very often. To see a moment of his passionade immortalized is… a beautiful thing. If only we as people could be the same.” He squeezed her hand ever so slightly and admired her countenance once more.. “Beauty is good enough for now, I suppose.”

What a charmer you are Alexander! Why haven't you talked to little ol’ me with words so eloquent?

Alexander winced but ignored the voice and the icy chills down his spine that accompanied it.

Charlotte’s cheeks flushed faintly as her lashes lowered, a smile gracing her lips. “You are far too generous with your compliments, Alexander,” she replied softly, her gaze briefly meeting his. “It honors me that a man with so many commitments would spare his time for me.”

Her eyes flickered forward as they ascended the steps. Through the grand doors was the grand entrance room with an enormous fountain at its heart, the sound of the water cascading mingling with the echo of chatter as the two had a moment to behold its glory. Pausing near the fountain, Charlotte turned her head slightly toward Alexander. “I have always believed that beauty is not merely what meets the eye but what stirs the heart when we behold it. Is it their form, their essence, or perhaps the story you imagine they carry?” Her lips curved into a smile as her eyes briefly met his. “When you admire something—or someone—what is it that you truly see, Alexander?”

“Ahh…” Alexander exhaled, thinking while taking in the sight of the fountain. He took a brief moment to take it all in before nodding and facing Charlotte. “If I'm being honest, it depends. People and art are very different, Charlotte. Many guard their hearts… even from themselves because they might not believe who they are or what they love are acceptable by others.” Alexander waved his hand toward the fountain. “But when people create, they can't help but to put a part of what's within into their creations.” Alexander then chuckled. “But even then, I am left to simply interpret what I see and hope that I've captured just a piece of their message. A message from the heart.”

“As beautiful as this fountain is, to me, it depicts something unfortunate…” Alexander frowned as his voice lowered. “Blessings, the water, coming down from the heavens… only to land on a single figure. A king? A saint maybe? But that person gets the whole of it and more than what they require before it trickles down a level below, then a level below that, and it continues until it reaches and settles at the bottom. This fountain shows me a life, a system, that we do not have the joy of experiencing. Perhaps it shows what may come.” Now there was an earnest smile on his face. “Apologies for the long-windedness. I get passionate about these things amongst others. What about you? What do you see when you admire something… or someone, Charlotte?”

Charlotte fixated on the fountain, her expression thoughtful as she observed the cascading water. The soft ripples of light across the surface seemed to dance beneath the lighting. As her eyes lingered on the fountain, she said, “It does seem as though blessings fall unevenly, but perhaps that’s what makes them all the more precious. Even in imperfection, there’s something beautiful, isn’t there? I think that’s why I love art so much. It allows us to see beauty in what is often hidden—what is raw and true.” Alexander pondered her words with a bright outlook while taking a second look at the fountain from her perspective.

“Very true.”

Her voice grew quieter, more introspective as she pondered his previous question, "...When I admire something—or someone—I look beyond what is presented. I seek to understand what is hidden, the layers beneath the surface. Beauty, after all, is not in what is readily offered, but in what must be discovered. And often, it is the imperfections, the scars, that tell the most compelling stories."

She allowed a faint smile, her eyes drifting back to the fountain. "Perhaps that is why art holds such power. It challenges us to see not just the surface but the depth—to question what has been hidden and why." With a quick glance at him, she brightened and asked, “So which room shall we explore first, Alexander?”

“I was thinking we could try dipping our toes in the Portrait Gallery. After that, we’ll go a little deeper with the Reflections of Reverie.” Alexander exchanged another look before nodding in the direction of the Portrait Gallery. “And since these portraits are easy on the imagination, we can likely discuss the second reason for inviting you on this outing.”

Alexanderrrrr…

“Sounds like a delightful plan…” Charlotte replied with a smile, her gaze drifting to the portrait gallery. “I suppose that would be regarding the charity event, yes?”

“Yes, exactly that. I've only known you for minutes and I feel that we might share the same desire of giving to those without but… The auction I plan to hold is not the typical kind. So even if you decline, I would like to still enjoy our time together. Above anything, I would like to get to know someone who might become the Duchess of Veirmont someday.”

As she stepped into the portrait gallery, she continued their conversation whilst retaining her friendly tone, “It’s so wonderful that you are dedicating effort toward helping those less fortunate as well as making something unique for the guests at the event to enjoy. I would certainly be honored to attend.” Alexander raised his eyebrows at how quickly she accepted his offer without even hearing all of the details. Her footsteps led her to the portrait of Countess Diana Cristian shortly after entry. The dark-haired Varian woman was pictured in a sizable rectangular portrait on the wall, just to the left of the entryway.

“Ah, the Varian Countess in Krasivaya.” Alexander was already aware of her connection to Charlotte and even predicted she might find herself stopping to admire her dear aunt. Though, this was not a person he aimed to use against Charlotte anytime soon.

Charlotte smiled warmly as she marveled upon her aunt fondly. “But you, Mr. Deacon, also are intriguing. I confess I would like to know more about the man who mysteriously invited me here.”

Alexanderrrrr… Again the familiar called to him and again, he ignored her.

“Intriguing. Mysterious,” he commented coolly before moving closer to the portrait. “Wouldn’t knowing more about me spoil such allure?” He asked rhetorically as his fingertips trailed the intricately carved hardwood frame of the portrait. “It’s likely part of why you accepted my invitation.” He chuckled lightly and shook his head. “But, Charlotte. I would love for us to get to know each other. Perhaps even consider ourselves close friends down the line.”

ALEXANDER!!!

He averted his face from Charlotte as his smile dissipated. What is it?

So that's how I pull your attention from a pretty courtesan? Alexander, hear me, people of your interest are inside the gallery.

Charlotte’s smile remained soft as her gaze shifted between Alexander and the portrait. “You may be right, Mr. Deacon—mystery has its allure, but it is depth that truly captivates... I most certainly would enjoy getting to know you more.”

She then noticed Alexander’s subtle shift, his attention momentarily drawn away. Tilting her head curiously, she offered an inquiry, “Did another portrait capture your interest, Mr. Deacon?”

“No…” Though his smile hadn't returned. He had to skillfully flow through this moment, and he damned well would! “It took a moment but… you agreeing so quickly without me even having to explain the details of the charity event… it's…” Alexander formed a weak smile, his eyes gleaming with admiration. “You are truly a rarity, Charlotte, truly. I adore your heart, especially in a city where few have them.” He took Charlotte's hands and slightly bowed his head as if he was unworthy to look directly at the face of the woman he described.

Who are they, Eri?

The bear. He's wearing shiny clothes and walking rather funny. He overcompensates with two guards by his side. The other is that red-eyed wench you fancy. Now, I'm glad you chose this one to take. I hate her face. Despite the unneeded commentary, the information held some value.

“Apologies, Charlotte.” He released her hands and raised his head to look into her eyes that rivaled the beauty of the serene waters of the ocean. “You’re much more than I expected.”

Charlotte had been very attentive as Alexander had spoken. She smiled once more, letting his kind words paint her cheeks red. With a giggle, she chimed, “Aww well thank you! The feeling is very mutual, Alexander.”

Her steps carried her toward a nearby portrait, her eyes briefly lingering on the imposing image of Count Calbert Damien. A flicker of something unreadable crossed her face before she turned her head and glanced over her shoulder at Alexander. With a curious tilt of her head, she asked, “But do indulge me, if you will. Tell me more about this event you’ve planned—I am quite curious.”

“Of course, of course, Charlotte. I think the best way to go about this is to be direct.” Alexander looked the portrait of Calbert up and down as if he was sizing the man up in person with an amused smile. Unlike the last portrait he did not bother caressing its frame. Instead, he stood beside it, facing Charlotte while imitating Calbert’s pose. “Prince Callum, Lady Blackwood, and I are hosting a dating auction and I'm searching for ladies that would compliment the occasion. Going on a date with your highest bidder would be expected, no matter who that person might but I assure you, the dates will be monitored if you were to request it. I wouldn't want some pervert to feel like he's owed something more than a date. Then again, I could use the event as a chance to buy myself a second outing with you.” He shot her a wink while maintaining Calbert's pose.

Charlotte’s gaze lingered on Alexander as he spoke, her lips curving into a polite smile, though her fingers subtly clasped the folds of her dress. Her sapphire eyes flicked momentarily to the portrait of Calbert Damien behind him as if gauging the connection between the two men, before returning to Alexander’s animated performance, which did manage to make her giggle.

After a thoughtful pause, she met his eyes, her smile softening into something sweeter. “Well,” she began, her voice gentle, “It sounds like a lovely occasion—for others to find a new friend, or perhaps even spark a romantic connection. Truly, I think the idea is wonderful!”

Her tone carried warmth and though her smile never faltered, her clasped hands tightened ever so slightly. “And monitored dates… That is a very considerate touch. You’ve clearly put great thought into this.” Alexander gave Charlotte a nod and relaxed his posture.

“Of course. Safeguarding my volunteers is just as important as raising the funds toward Prince Callum’s cause. The Black Rose Trading Company has deep pockets and will see that this event is nothing less than grand.” He faced Calbert’s portrait again before continuing.

“Off topic but… what do you think of Count Damien? Your honest thoughts.” His eyes met hers with a glance before he returned his sights into the portrait. He truly wondered how she would paint him.

Charlotte’s smile faltered ever so slightly as her gaze lingered on the portrait of Count Damien. She let out a soft breath, carefully considering her words.

“Count Damien…” she mused, her tone thoughtful. “He strikes me as a man who understands the power of appearances—how to use them, how to shape them. Such a mind must make for an exceptional ally… or a formidable adversary.”

Her eyes drifted back to Alexander, her expression earnest yet tinged with curiosity. “You must have crossed paths with him, Mr. Deacon. Men of ambition often seem to find each other, don’t they?”

“More often than not, yes.”

Her lips curved into a soft smile as she added, “I admit, I’m not fond of the man behind the mask. But you—you seem to have a far keener understanding of people than most. What do you think of him?”

“About him, or the mask?” Alexander asked with a chuckle. “I jest but this Kingdom forces a man like him to be the way he is. A grinning loyal dog in the public eye, and a vicious wolf behind closed doors. You probably find it distasteful, and you wouldn't be wrong in the slightest but let me ask you, Charlotte. Would you wear a mask to protect those you love? Would you be vicious to those who might threaten their lives?”

“Protecting those I love… That’s more important to me than anything…” Charlotte murmured softly, her voice tinged with resolve as her gaze momentarily lowered. “If wearing a mask is what it took, then perhaps I would at the least try, wouldn’t you?” Alexander withdrew his gaze and remained silent.

At the same time, Charlotte's eyes drifted to the portrait for a fleeting moment before returning to Alexander. With a hint of melancholy in her tone, she mused aloud wistfully, “But I wonder… does wearing such a mask change who you are beneath it? Can someone truly protect others without losing a piece of themselves along the way?”

“That’s my future Duchess!” Alexander grinned while quietly mocking claps of applause. “You’re thinking deeply…” Alexander shut his eyes and shook his head. “But you and I both know you're capable of delving deeper. His problem… It's not about the mask or when he wears it. It's about why he wears it. His single reason. That's what drives him. That's his love. His obsession. His strength. His weakness. His everything. It puts him two paces from insanity… So dawn a mask when you need it. Deceive your foes and win favor where you can. Just don't let this fool be the poster child of wearing one. You're better than him.”

“And why do you wear your mask, Alexander?” she asked gently as if the question had simply floated into her mind unbidden. Her voice carried no accusation, only the naive curiosity of someone eager to understand.

“The same reason as yourself, Charlotte.” Alexander motioned Charlotte to follow him down the hall. “Survival… To protect what I love… To deceive my enemies.” He held his hand out to his side, fluttering his fingers as he silently called her to take it. “I need you close for what I am about to ask you.”

Charlotte hesitated for a heartbeat, her gaze flickering between his outstretched hand and his expression. She stepped forward and closed the distance finally, gently taking his hand.

“You speak with such conviction, Alexander,” she observed and let the thought settle before glancing up at him with inquisitive eyes. “What is it you wish to ask of me?”

“How much do you know about magic?” He asked softly. “Don’t lie to me.” Alexander made eye contact with Charlotte but surprisingly, he didn't use his ability to charm her. Charlotte would soon become his friend after all.

She cleared her throat and held her gaze steady. “I was only informed of its existence recently, so, very little…If I may ask, Alexander—why would you ask me about it?”

He stopped in place while looking into her eyes longingly. She's perfect.

Young Justice

Location: Debriefing Room, Mount Justice
Interactions: The Team
Mentions:

---

Viktor sat in silence as Zach chimed in with some useful information on one of the does he faced. He actually raised his eyebrows at the mention of him subduing the person despite their abilities affecting him. Kassy then suggested a means of combating such a dangerous ability. We’ve all come a long way it seems. Viktor initially thought before Will spat out his disagreements to both Batman and the Team about Metamorph. Viktor was aware he had mixed feelings toward Will. Before leaving the Team, he and Will had always butt heads and they had a more than toxic rivalry between each other. Upon Will’s return, neither of them had done much to mend their relationship, so he figured they would only end up arguing at a time where it was not needed.

But he could not say he didn't understand his peer who lashed out due to the recent event that occured. Will was hurt and frustrated, feeling the Justice League was at fault. Viktor took a look at Batman. He too wondered if they knew more about Kila’s actions.

Kassy and Cora pushed back while Pei practiced some restraint by sighing to show her discontentment with what was occuring. Viktor parted his lips to finally speak, to perhaps put an end to the turmultuous discussion but Batman’s powerful voice quieted the room. With Batman and Red Tornado putting everything they were aware of out on the table, the gears in Viktor's head began turning. The corroboration of his findings and what Batman and Red Tornado revealed only solidified what he believed into facts on the matter. It wasn't long until Batman dismissed the debriefing, leaving the Team to themselves once more.

“Will. You and I need to talk. I'll be at the obstacle course in thirty minutes.” Without skipping a beat, Viktor looked at each of the others. “Cora, Pei, and Kass. It's thanks to you and the information we just received, we can now confirm that the frequency used by the guns at the heist, was also used by the mysterious man in the shipping container. Now that I am more than sure he's involved, allow me to share his description until I can perhaps have a friend create a sketch for us… dark-skinned complexion.
Age, between late thirties and mid forties. Height, between 5 feet 7 inches and 5 feet 9 inches tall. Build, lean. Hair, dark brown dreadlocks. His accent resembles one from Jamaica but could be from elsewhere amongst the Caribbean… It's not much but, it's something.” With that, Viktor made for the exit, Kila’s mask in hand.

Young Justice

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: Night of Sola 26th
Location: Summoning Chamber
Attire: None.
Interaction:
Mention:

---

Alexander attempted to peer through the small billows of smoke that masked the being he had summoned as it continued to writhe.

“Ughhhhhh!” Its howl held a feminine tone but Alexander knew better than to associate it with any semblance of a human.

“Greetings. I am your summoner. I am Alexander Deacon if the-”

“Hush!” The voice boomed through the chamber. Lianna gripped the handles of her wheelchair while Alexander raised an eyebrow. “I need a moment, Alexander Deacon….” She spat out his name distastefully. “Ahhhh it has been long… Sooo long. Oooh it feels so good to find myself in this world once more.” She sounded as if she was just stirring from a long rest.

“And you're very welcome.” Alexander commented with a smile as he stood from the floor.

“Bold of you to assume I should thank you. All you did was open a door and I was simply the first to step through it. You called for a familiar, and I answered… You're welcome, Alexander Deacon.”

“Then I guess I have to give my thanks. It would roll off the tongue much easier if I knew your name, familiar.” Alexander took a step closer to the circle, still unable to make her form through the smoke. His curiosity was getting the better of him, fascinated by this twisted use of magic.

“My name? Hmmmm…. Ere- Hmm no. Call me Eri. Short and sweet, easy to say, hm?”

“Eri. It would be-”

“Love it! You say it so well, Alexander Deacon. Say it once more.”

“Eri, it would be better if I knew your real name.” Alexander was beginning to feel frustrated and contemplated banishing the familiar to try the summoning again.

“You will! Of course! In time, Alexander Deacon. In time. We've only just met… These candles and your presentation have put me in such a mood to get to know you but giving everything to the first man that calls is not something I do, especially when he’s bound by such a nasty curse. Nasty, nasty, nasty Alexander Deacon.” She chuckled darkly.

“Be patient, take it slow, and I will reward you in full. For now, let us negotiate the terms of our partnership, my precious summoner. What services do you desire, Alexander Deacon?”

“Firstly,” Alexander began

END

Young Justice

Fight or Flight

The Team

The mission had concluded but the feelings of defeat remained with the members of the Team who were quieter than usual aboard the team jet. The jet was set to autopilot, returning to HQ, allowing Viktor to sink into his thoughts on what he could have done to prevent the loss of KJ. Arms crossed and scowling, Viktor appeared to have regressed into the same person he was after their first mission. Contrary to his stillness, activity stirred behind him as well as other means of coping…

Stabilize Cora. Make sure her head and neck are secure and stable. Hook up blood pressure and oxygen meters. Tuck in. Don't think about Kila. Assist Daphne, if needed, with bathing, washing hair. Bag gasoline-soaked clothing and put it in a secure container. Offer tea or a sandwich. Don't think about Ja.

Daphne appreciated Kassy’s help with the washing and detangling of her hair. It gave them both something to concentrate on. It was better to keep their hands busy so their minds wouldn’t wander. They worked quietly until Daphne was refreshed. She sat in one of the chairs facing Cora’s direction, most of her body disappearing into an oversized black hoodie with her hair brushed back.

Cora was still out cold, and she looked like shit. Under her gear, her skin smoked as if she were a human chimney, and the earpiece she wore to communicate with the team was in a hundred different pieces, some of which had been embedded in her neck like shrapnel. She’d live, but it would suck for a bit.

A bit away from Cora sat Zach. Compared to Cora’s state, he appeared unscathed but he was not unaffected by what occurred.

Normally, Zach would have tried to cheer everyone up with some magic tricks, but even he was not in the mood for that. He whipped out his phone, and started typing out a text to Mateo.

Hey babe, you would not believe the day I had. I would kill to have you here right now. 💕💋

”Where we are
I dunno where we are
But it’ll be okay”
Pei hummed the lyrics quietly to herself. She was tending to Cora with Kass, using gel on Cora’s burns while Kass set up the equipment.

Vincent sat away from everyone else, or at least as much as he could in the confines of the jet, arms crossed and leg bouncing. He was angry at that one-eyed bastard for using such a cheap trick, sure, but he was also angry at himself. If he had just done a better job of keeping Daphne safe, then things would have been different. Would they, though? They’d have just used Cora, instead, he told himself. He let out a heavy sigh. I’m sick and tired of losing.

Pei raised her eyes, glancing over to Daphne. She wasn’t sure if her ice would help her with her gasoline problem. Probably not. She glanced up at Kass. “The first time I had to treat a burn victim,” Pei began. “I totally freaked out.” She rubbed some gel on Cora’s arm.

“Like, you think, ice goes on a burn, right? That’s what I thought. I used to treat my friends like that when I was younger. But, uh, it doesn’t work, though I didn’t know that at the time. Anyway they taught me that, and I knew all my first aid stuff, but when I was actually looking at some poor grandma with a burn on her arm I freaked out and went to go put snow on it anyway.” She said. “Romero pulled my arm away and gave me a smack upside the head. He’s funny.” Pei smiled lightly.

”So, I’m, uh, glad you got the gel, Kass.” Pei said. She wasn't the only one to break the silence.

It took Kassy several moments to respond, as if she were processing Pei's words slowly. "You know… I thought the same thing. Burns aren't exactly common where I come from. So it made logical sense-"

The first signs of life out of Cora were a nasty, dry, wheezing cough as she jerked up. Like Frankenstein's monster being electrocuted and twitching all over the place. Her head swiveled around this way and that way, thinking she was still in a swamp.

“What the fuuuck.”

Kassy gently held Cora from rolling off the bed. "Easy. Easy…"

“You’re finally awake,” Vincent said, though he didn’t look toward Cora. “Great. At least today wasn’t completely fucked.”

“Those two good back there?” Viktor asked sternly while slightly looking over his shoulder.

“I think Cora’s gonna be okay. You’re okay, Cora.” Pei answered and assuaged Cora, holding her shoulder. Viktor's shoulders dropped slightly, feeling some semblance of relief. Even then it was difficult to simply relax. No one had mentioned KJ since the exchange. Acknowledging his absence was a topic they aimed to avoid.

”Fuc-“ Cora’s whole throat and her lungs throbbed in one big muscle spasm. She coughed up bits of blood. ”Whahappenn,” she wheezed, trying to ask What happened?

However, the topic was unavoidable.

“...We got you out. You should probably get some rest,” Pei answered, not wanting to trouble the injured Cora with bad news. She moved to set a cool hand on her forehead.

Vincent, however, had no such qualms. “KJ’s been taken,” he simply said. “Guy with an orange and black mask showed up, took Daphne hostage, KJ went with them.” He glared up at the back of Viktor’s head and added, “Someone made a pretty big fucking group decision for the rest of us.”

Kassy let Cora go, as her hands had started to shake. "...someone did." Breathe. Breathe. Viktor remained silent despite yearning to reply.

"It's okay, rudo. Just breathe."

"And he was correct to do so."

Hearing this, Cora slipped backwards and fell flat, not making any attempts to sit upright.

She stared at the roof of the jet and let herself think for a moment. “…We- We’ll get… Himbacksoon.”

“That’s right,” Pei said, making sure Cora didn’t fall too hard. “Now just, no more talking. It’s horrible to listen to and you should save your strength,” Pei teased lightly.

“At least someone knows what they're talking about.” Vitkor barbed at Vincent. “We will see him returned to us…. It'll just take time and planning. That's why we're going home.”

“And how much time do you think he has?” Vincent barked. “Sure, they didn’t wanna hurt him in the swamp, but what if that changes now that they’ve got him? At the very least, I should be out there, tailing them! How else are we supposed to figure out where they went?”

“I’m not happy about this either. Zach replied, looking up from his phone. “But I don’t think you playing solo hero is going to do either of us any good…”

“And he's accomplished enough already.” Viktor unnecessarily added. “All you'd do is make matters worse. We don't need to lose another teammate due to your short-sightedness.”

Vincent slowly rose to his feet, his anger like a hot ball of iron sitting in his chest. “Go ahead, say it straight,” he growled. “Say it’s my fault because I wouldn’t just let them cart off a teammate like you did.”

“What else were we both supposed to do? Hm?” Viktor shook his head. “Pointing fingers won't change anything. I was merely showing you just that. That mission was a trap designed by a mercenary who keeps even our mentors on their toes. We didn't stand a chance. Kila, Daphne, Cora, you… someone wouldn't have made it back on this jet. I chose the option where that person isn't dead…” Viktor swiveled his seat around to face Vincent squarely, his eyebrows furrowed. “I hated resorting to doing that.”

“In case you didn’t notice, someone didn’t make it back!” Vincent fired back. “He might have been alive when we last saw him, but how do you know that didn’t change once they were out of sight? You trusted the enemy over what your own team could have done and now we may never see KJ again!”

"Vincent." Kassy's soft voice managed to cut through the loud argument like a sharp knife through bone. She had both hands pressed against her head.

The moment he heard Kassy’s voice, Vincent turned toward her and knew he screwed up.

“Kass...” Viktor faced her now, understanding what that tone of hers meant.

She held up a fist in a single, commanding motion that Viktor would know. A military single to stop. "Vincent. What would you have done? If we did not let KJ go, Daphne would have been killed. If we somehow managed to get her away, Cora was already injured and easily the next target. So, what's your plan, again?"

Vincent didn’t answer. He couldn’t. Despite everything he had said, he had been there. He knew he wouldn’t have been able to come up with a better plan and it went far beyond him not being an ideas guy. He looked down at the seat in front of him, the headrest of which, up until that moment, he had been gripping tightly. He felt the molten ball of anger vanish altogether and sat heavily in his seat.

”I’m sorry,” he simply said, not looking up. “All of you.”

"You're not the one who should be sorry. We got outclassed, again, and it shouldn't have been so easy. How did they get into our communications? How long have we been on the wrong trail? We received this from the League, were told that Kobra was present. By the people who are supposed to be better than us!" It wasn't louder, but her voice seemed to fill the space.

Pei made a quiet, displeased noise, but barely managed to keep her mouth shut.

“Oran- Orangeguy,” Cora rasped. “Planned?”

“Deathstroke,” Pei clarified for Cora. “And it seems that way. Metamorph wasn’t even supposed to be here, which is the stupid thing.” She said. “I don’t know if him being here was lucky or unlucky.” She thought aloud, putting her curled fist against her forehead.

She picked her head up sharply, her gaze darkening with every breath. "Luck doesn't matter when the winner is already set. We have been toys. Batted around like a dolphin with a dead catch. The League has to answer for this. They will answer us for their lack of judgment."

Pei’s mouth worked to the side. What was that supposed to mean? ”It’s not the League’s fault that Metamorph followed us by himself.” She said, trying to hide her defensiveness.

”And we coulda played the mission out better, too.” She added.

"Oh? Then enlighten me, Pei. How would you have saved all of our lives?"

“Hmm.” Viktor finally turned back to the controls but continued to listen. Both had made some valid points that had bothered him since the exchange.

“Let’s try to not beat the dead horse,” Vincent spoke up, having already learned his lesson from when he argued the same thing. ”Honestly, Kass made a pretty good point. I’m not gonna pretend to know more than I do, but if this Deathstroke guy is such a problem, why didn’t they know he’d be there?”

“Because-” Pei made a frustrated noise. ”Look, I don’t know what happened out there, but Daphne shouldn’t have been in a position to get snatched in the first place. We gotta work on our- on our awareness.” Pei said.

It stung each time her name was mentioned while the others were talking. She already felt guilty for getting captured and basically forcing everyone to serve up Kila on a silver plate just to keep her safe. Daphne pulled up her knees to her chest almost completely swallowed up by the hoodie. This wasn’t the first time she sat on the jet in this condition.

“And again, it’s not the League’s fault Metamorph showed up by himself. If he was so sure it was a trap, which he somehow was, he shoulda said somethin’. Instead, he- it’s just like the bank and just like the docks.” Pei vented as she started to wrap a cool bandage around Cora’s arm.

“You know actually Pei, you’re not being completely fair.” Daphne swallowed back her anxiety. She looked at Pei with a mixture of fear and determination. Not saying anything is a sign of compliance Daphne….
She remembered Black Canary’s words.

“Deathstroke captured me because he’s a master assassin. I pushed myself too hard by navigating the swamp and fighting all of the enemies outside. I couldn’t use my powers to escape.”

Pei didn’t meet Daphne’s gaze, focused on tending to Cora. ”Sounds like he captured you because of factors you can work on. We can all work on. He snagged you, dragged you away, covered you in gasoline, and moved to a great negotiating spot. If we had interrupted any of those steps, Deathstroke wouldn’t have had his hostage.” Pei said.

”So yeah, we coulda played that better. Of course we could’ve. But even as things went, if Metamorph-” She sighed and shut herself up.

Meanwhile, as Zach sat there and watched the rest of the group argue amongst themselves, something caught his attention. Something magical. “Guys, am I the only one that smells burning mana?” He didn’t expect anyone to answer. Following his instincts, led him to Kassy. Specifically, that bracelet. It was unraveling. “Uh… Kass… I don't know what's up, but your bracelet is overloaded with magical energy. You might wanna… watch that.

Daphne swiveled to Kassy, a worried look on her face. She finally got up from her seat and approached her teammate.

”Past doesn-“ COUGH. ”…Matter.”

“What did I say about talking?” Pei said, though the teasing was gone. ”And I wouldn’t exactly call any of this ‘the past’.”

Instead of talking, Cora just gave Pei an unamused You know what I meant look.

Pei worked her mouth to the side again, briefly meeting Cora’s eyes. “What? I’m serious. All of us can do better. Fuckin’-- example: I gave Metamorph a pass for that stunt at the bank, but I shouldn’t have. He gave me some crap about how ‘only he understands the nature of his struggle’ or whatever and I backed off.” She scoffed.

”Well he clearly doesn’t, because he turned on us at the docks right after. And if he had a little less faith in himself and a little more faith in the League, he would have brought one of them with him to ‘save us’ and we’d all be fine right now.” Pei said, practically blurting out her words at the end there.

Kassy squeezed her fists so hard her knuckles popped. "Do you think before you speak, Pei, or are you being a bitch on purpose? Did you blame the people you rescued for having to rescue them too?”

"He came to rescue us because we were in trouble. He came because he is a hero, and that's what we are supposed to do! What the fuck do you think this job is? It's not about your stupid puns or cutesy fucking slogans! It's about doing what is right, what should be done! Not because you can, but because you must. He came for us because he loves us.”

Pei was angry, her teeth grit and bared. Kass had such the wrong idea, Pei thought, that she didn’t even know where to begin. “I- you don’t- you think I don’t-?” She sputtered.

Viktor shook his head at Kassy’s comments. He didn't want to point fingers anymore and there was still so much he had not confirmed about the situation but he found himself agreeing with Pei.

“Kass. You may not like what she's saying but Pei isn't wrong. Kila had the right intentions but we can't ignore his lack of judgement in coming to aid us. Whether our foes wanted him or not, his presence there alone wouldn't have helped us. And because they wanted him, him being there played us right into their hands. He should have contacted the League.” Viktor spoke without turning around.

Pei looked to where Viktor was sitting, and she shook her head rapidly. “This isn’t about- it’s not- we all—” She wanted to say something about common ground and shared responsibility. Being a teamplayer. But instead she turned back to Kass and pointed at her, not able to let the accusation go unanswered. “I know what being a hero is about!”

It was impossible to tell, but Cora was rolling her eyes.

Kassy tossed her head, lips peeling back in a sneer. Her ears were ringing, every muscle in her body hurt, and her head felt ready to burst. The others may have been right, but all she could see right now was an opponent. "Oh, sure, suuuure. Please teach us, oh Incredible Iceburn. Maybe we all get childish things to yell before we attack our foes. I'll go first!"

Pei shot to her feet, her cheeks flushed dark blue. “Shut up!”

"Make me."

“Sit down!” Viktor ordered. “We're preparing to land… fasten your seatbelts too.”

Kassy's mouth worked silently, before she stormed towards her seat in the back and strapped in.

Pei stared at Kass, bewildered. “Tch,” Then she responded to Viktor’s order. She leaned down to pull a belt over Cora so she wouldn’t fall out and then shoved her own self back down into her seat, clasping the seatbelt over her lap. She crossed her arms and found a corner to stare at, tapping her foot.

The dashboard of the jet was flickering. Like a tv during a thunderstorm. All the little lights and diodes that shouldn’t have been blinking were blinking, as if someone had damaged the internals that were just fine five minutes ago.

Pei glanced at Cora briefly but said nothing. Just a flicker.

“Fuck… I can manage it. I will manage it.” Viktor grumbled to himself. “Pei, ensure Cora isn't having a seizure or something. I can still control the craft but I am not in the mood to test how bad she can make things.” Viktor began descending the jet despite the annoyance of the flickering lights.

Cora raised a shaky, jittery hand and gave a half-assed thumbs up.

“She’s fine,” Pei said tersely. Then she sighed, her expression softening as she looked at Cora. “You’re fine, right? She’s fine,” She called out again. “We’re countin’ on you not to kill us all, captain! No pressure!”

Daphne felt the knots in her stomach grow tighter. Even though she wasn’t the one arguing and raising her voice, it affected her like it was directed at her personally. She glanced worriedly at Kassy, Pei and Cora. Between the three of them Cora definitely looked the worst. The buckles of her seatbelt went limp, as the body they were supposed to hold dispersed into petals. Daphne reformed into a somewhat humanoid shape, floating above Cora. She placed her hands on either side of Cora’s head, compressing her calming scent to soothe her.

It was hard to really feel calm in Cora’s situation. Metamorph was gone, which sucked. Her friends were fighting, which sucked too. But she was also probably going to have to sit in a damn hospital bed for days, unable to stand up and walk, and she had aching burns everywhere. The only reason Cora’s leg wasn’t bouncing like a jackhammer was because she lacked the energy.

It helped that Daphne’s powers eased the pain. It was nice, relaxing even. Daphne was really cool like this.

Cora blinked. Slowly, like a cat. ”…Thanks.”

The jet landed shakier than usual but it safely came to a stop in front of the open hangar beside the HQ. Viktor swiveled his chair around from the controls to face the others.

“Flight’s over. Is the fight over too?”

“There’s no fight,” Pei unbuckled her belt, embarrassed.

Vincent said nothing as he stood up from his seat. Having been appropriately admonished by Kassy, he couldn’t bring himself to be angry at his teammates, anymore, yet he still felt the smouldering cinders of his anger deep within his chest. No, he was still angry. At Deathstroke. At the men he worked with, the ones who helped take KJ away.

At himself.

Vincent walked over to the jet’s exit and opened it. Once the stairs were lowered, he stepped out of the jet and made his way inside without a word.

Kassy made sure that Cora was safely strapped into a wheelchair. "Please take Cora inside. I need a moment."

”Ughhhhhhh.”

“Sure,” Pei said, taking the handles of the chair. Pei often found the best way to move on from an argument was to pretend they never happened. It’s not like she was actually angry at Kass, she just got mad for a second. Sticks and stones, right?

Zach sighed. He was relieved they didn’t have a magical explosion, but the mood was still tense. Vincent took off, Kassy was no doubt going to have a breakdown, Cora was hurt, and everyone was upset. It sucked, everything sucked right now. “Well that was fun. Just another day in the glamorous life of a superhero, right?” He quipped. “Look, I know this sucks, big time. But we’re not gonna fix anything by brooding and snapping at each other. Yeah, today was awful, but KJ’s counting on us. So, we’re gonna do what we always do, and figure shit out, and bring him home. Because if anyone can pull off a miracle it’s us.”
Zach twirled his hat in his hands, then placed it back on his head. “Now, can we do something before I start feeling like a motivational speaker? That is not my vibe.”
"Zach." Kassy's voice was unsteady as the jet emptied more and more. Tasks and arguments and rage had given her something besides the pain to focus on. But now that it was over, she could barely hold back the tears. "Can I ask for a favor?" She held up her braceleted wrist. "Magical duct tape? I feel it now, you're right. It's definitely weaker, and it hurts. The League will have enough to deal with without my problems."

Zach nodded. “Alright, I can reinforce it, but it won’t be a permanent fix. It’ll hold, but eventually you’re gonna need a replacement or something else…” He held his free hand over the bracelet, and closed his eyes to focus. “Pu siht hctap!” he chanted, and a faint purple glow surrounded the bracelet. The energy tightened and stabilized, smoothing out the frayed edges. “There we go. Magical duct tape, as requested.”

"...thank you. I… appreciate it." She managed a wobbly smile. "I'll be at the briefing. I just… need a second."

Viktor was in his way off the jet following Zach but stopped briefly.

“I recommend someplace with a view of the ocean. You won't find peace in here, Kass. We’ll talk later.”

Kassy could do nothing but nod in response. She didn't trust herself not to start sobbing at Viktor's kindness.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: Night of Sola 26th
Location: Summoning Chamber
Attire: None.
Interaction:
Mention:

---

Marek

Within a dimly candlelit chamber Alexander paced before his wheelchair-bound wife, his body free from any garments. The warm glow of the fire exposed dark symbols painted against his surprisingly toned physique. The echoes of the slow and soft patter of his bare footsteps defined the night emptiness of the location.

“My love, are you…” Lianna initiated in breaking the long silence between them but still found herself reluctant in questioning Alexander. His intentions in this moment were not what she desired. Lianna had wanted Alexander to have little interaction with magic, especially after the day she saved him from an early death. She was proof enough of the heavy consequences one could suffer from practicing the arcane. What worried Lianna just as much was the way it clung to you. One spell was never enough. Your first spell was never your last while you still drew breath.

“I am ready, my love. Just… nervous is all. Such a rare feeling.” Alexander admitted as he admired his seated wife with a smile. “But I can manage this.” He assured her and himself. Lianna bit her lower lip.

“You should remove it. The ring.” Her eyebrows furrowed with concern. She preferred he kept it worn as the small artifact kept Alexander as the same man he was before his change. The man he became without it, was a perfect agent for Marek. Cold and ruthless, lacking any semblance of a conscience. Lianna could barely tolerate him without the ring but she knew it made him uncannily strong if one could describe a lack of warmth in such a way.

Alexander knelt at her side, placing her hands in his.

“I don't have to remove it if I’m with you. I should-”

“You should!” She grasped his hand firmly as she pleaded. “If you face something without a heart, it will only seek to manipulate yours. Alexander, you need to be… You need to be what you are without the ring to commune with darkness. It's… it's the same as with the Black Rose. A good man cannot thrive amongst monsters.”

Silence followed Lianna’s words, making her unsure of how her husband received them. Her grip loosened as Alexander raised her hand to plant a tender kiss upon it.

“Keep it safe, my love. I won’t be long,” Alexander said before he removed the ring from his left hand and placed it in her grasp. And as if to say farewell for only a brief time, Alexander planted a second kiss upon her lips.

“Do what you must, my love.”

“For us, always… Always.” Alexander rose to his feet, his expression stoic with no trace of doubt. “Now…” Alexander stepped away from Lianna, walking until he was standing dead center in a white circle drawn on the chamber floor. Besides it lay a ceremonial knife decorated with an assortment of topaz crystals. Further ahead, perhaps only three paces at most, was another yet much larger circle on the floor. Unlike the one he now stood in, the circle had many drawn symbols and lit candles lining its perimeter. Mentally prepared, Alexander smirked.

“Let’s begin.” He whispered, his tone expressing his conviction. Shutting his eyes and clasping his hands with interlocked fingers before taking a seat on the ground cross-legged. He tensed slightly, feeling the cold floor against his bare skin causing goosebumps to creep across it. Taking a controlled breath, Alexander relaxed once more. Just as he practiced with Lianna, he spoke the incantation.

“Spiritus, adiuva me… veni in pactum… Tenebras te arcesso… familiarem te facio,” Alexander said softly and took his time to ensure his pronunciation was nothing but perfect.

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!” Lianna's voice repeated loudly from behind him. Her husband’s green magicae aura determined his lack of compatibility with summoning and evocation spells, so she would offer any assistance she could manage.

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum. Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio.” Alexander repeated with more fervor. The fire of the candles surrounding the large circle began to lightly flicker and dance to his words. Still, it was not enough.

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!”

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!”

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!”

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!” The flames flickered and whipped wildly now. It was no longer every word but every syllable of the incantation uttered that forced the fire to squirm.

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!”

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactum! Tenebras te arcesso, familiarem te facio!”

“Spiritus, adiuva me, veni in pactu-!” The room became so frigid so suddenly, Alexander stopped and opened his eyes from the instance. His shivering that had started to set in instantly ceased as his eyes caught sight of what was before him.

The candles that were once lit around the perimeter of the circle now had thin lines of smoke rising aimlessly. The other candles that remained with flame in the room barely made out the shapes of what now occupied the inside of the large circle. The small billows of smoke served to only blur the appearance of whatever Alexander had called.

Its form shifted and swayed with an unnatural flexibility in the darkness as it acclimated to the physical world. Alexander was unable to perceive the being’s face, yet he felt the moment it's eyes locked on to him. Alexander could feel a slight pressure weighing on body accompanied by the chilling cold of the room.

Just what had he brought into this world?

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Edin Theater
Interaction: Fritz and Anastasia
Mention: Caseo, Bolivia, Umbrella

One might imagine Lorenzo shaking with nervousness as he was meant to prepare poetry to perform in front of so many esteemed guests, including the royal family, yet Lorenzo maintained an odd level of coolness. Perhaps it was because he was in his element. Maybe he was drunk off his “medicine” or had finally gone mad from his own antics. However, the reason for his tempered disposition this late morning was more obvious once one looked his way. It wasn’t medicine and Lorenzo was definitely not a professional performer.

It was upon his shoulder, that the black-coated ferret made his perch. Kier had finally gotten a chance to get out to support his lord on this stage. Nathaniel had advised against it but Lorenzo refused to perform without his closest friend by his side.

“I think we’re going to blow the whole capital out of the water.” Lorenzo said quietly as he petted Kier who nuzzled against his neck. And though he treasured his friendship with Kier more than anyone else, Lorenzo still had room for others. In recent days, Lorenzo had spent his time gardening alongside Ariella Edwards and had made the likes of Cassius Damien a fun drinking pal. Not only that, but Lorenzo had managed to employ Olivia to help around the estate with the gang of animals he now had on his property. He didn’t mind taking care of Kier but the garden guard of a chicken was especially fierce from time to time and he couldn’t look Champion in the face without trying to follow the lameness in his eyes. If Kier’s presence hadn’t skyrocketed his confidence, his accomplishments over a couple of days surely put him in a great mental space.

It was none other than the sound of Fritz’s gentle voice that pulled Lorenzo’s attention away from Kier, finding the Varian count conversing with Princess Anastasia. His eyebrows raised in surprise, discovering Fritz was revealing himself to be quite the pep talker. However, his surprise was quickly replaced by excitement, as the opportunity to spread his peacock feathers was right here in front of him. Impressing none other than the princess of Sorian would be quite a feat and a good warm-up for flexing his confidence.

“Of course the acoustics are perfect, Count Fritz.” Lorenzo piped up as he approached the two. “Everyone is expecting me to deliver after all… and I intend to deliver. Oh!” He pretended that he had just noticed Anastasia. “And if it isn’t the one and only, Princess Anastasia! You’re going to perform today? How splendid! If I had known, I-I would have placed myself in the front row! What a treasure that would be.”

Young Justice

Location: Water Treatment Plant
Interactions: The Team
Mentions:

---

Viktor's visor proved to be a luxury as his expression softened to a rare degree. As much as he trusted Kila, he could not shake off the risk of letting him go alone. It's the only way. He told himself in the face of defeat. It's the only way. He told himself as Kila tossed his mask to the ground. The conviction in his eyes was something Viktor recalled in their fight. It was not a hopeful fool’s bravery. He was never that in the face of adversity. What he displayed instead was his courage with all his anguish and concern buried beneath it. Though not completely aware of the gravity of the situation at hand, he faced it nonetheless.

Viktor disabled his comms and walked by Kila to retrieve the mask that could serve as a means to remember his contribution and connection to the team. Closer now, Vitkor took the opportunity to leave some parting words to his comrade.

“Kila. Just like times before… the Team will find a way to Pingyu.” He crouched down to pick up the mask and clipped it to his belt and re-established communication with the others.

“Deathstroke. Our team agrees to the terms of the trade. The others will not interfere as long as Nymph is returned with no further harm done to her.”

Young Justice

Location: Water Treatment Plant
Interactions: The Team
Mentions:

---

“A swamp isn’t the place for flowers now is it….?”

Viktor whipped his head around as an unfamiliar eluded to Daphne over comms. The enemy disengaging from attacking and the sudden quiet that followed signaled the arming of the trap Kila mentioned. He stepped out from behind a tree he was using as cover, getting a view of the raised platform and none other than the infamous mercenary known as Deathstroke with Daphne in his possession.

Deathstroke…

His visage produced more emotions within Viktor than he was comfortable with. Awe, anxiousness, fear, and doubt were the few among them. However, it was the feeling of nostalgia that aimed to emotionally cripple him. Viktor was more familiar with Ravager, his predecessor of superhuman serum redeveloped by HIVE. A serum hailed in the organization only due to the feats of the man who now had his team caught in his clutches.

Taking slow and mentally uneasy steps forward, Viktor found himself only able to watch Daphne get doused in gasoline. His mind felt divided on what to do as options and contingencies slipped away. Only partially present, events leading up to this moment pieced themselves together.

Ja’s unconsciousness in Taos, the bank heist, the nonlethal weapons, the strange man at the docks, and now this. The demand for Metamorph further pieced together the puzzle for Viktor. He was being tested. Vitkor stopped in his tracks. The Red Beast was being tested… For his ability to surface, combat capabilities… and his closeness to us. They knew he'd think of us. They knew he'd come here. Is this even Kobra?

Viktor groaned in frustration as the options narrowed down to only two. Daphne or KJ. Without effective range, the numbers, or a reliable way to escape, fighting back now wasn't in the cards.

“Each member of the squad understands the risks.”

Viktor focused on Daphne, soaked in gasoline and coughing from inhaling its fumes.

“Weighing your options is simple. What's more valuable? Who's more valuable? To the objective. To the team. Cull the weak if it's necessary.”

“Shut it, Zatara. Everyone, get to the boat and prepare to extract with the objective. You too Metamorph.”

“Deathstroke, the Terminator… You want us to trade Metamorph for Nymph? Disappointing. Your bargaining chip is pathetic. Burn her if you want. You’d be doing me a favor by ridding my team of someone who never belonged in the first place. Trap or not, we have what we came for,” Viktor might have said all of this if he hadn't grown as much as he had during his tenure with the team.

He was far from the person he used to be. He valued and trusted each and every member of his team, and that is why he chose to approach the situation starkly different from what he had been trained to be for years.

“Team, be aware that our adversary now has access to our comms,” He informed, though he wasn't entirely against Zach badmouthing Deathstroke. “Metamorph… Come to my position but… I believe you know what you have to do.” His sights remained fixed on Deathstroke. The idea of facing off against him ever-looming.