Sasha went rigid and clung to Sidney, feeling her twin do the same to her, as she watched dozens of inhuman, horrifying purpleeyesblink open in the darkness that was once Vile’s human form.

“Brother. Stop scaring them.” Virtue moved to stand in front of them. He was protecting them. The Hero and the Villain.

The hero and the monster.

Of courseshehad been abducted by the villain. Of course, that was her luck.

Turning his back to them, Vile audibly cracked his neck. His form shrank, and once more resembled something human. Well, in as much as he could probably manage. It was still a little off in parts.

He turned to face them, smoothing his hands down over his coat. “Hard not to scare them when that is the whole point of my existence. You have your role, I have mine.” Adjusting his tie, he let out a breath. “But, yes. Let us start at the very beginning. Which is, as someone has said before, averygood place to start.”

Lifting his hand, he snapped his fingers.

* And always over the wrong parts of them, it seems. Graphic murder? Why, suitable for children’s fables. Graphic consensual sex? Out, you Whore of Babylon! -V

* I do so much love that word… -V