A/N: Sorry for the late update! Speaking of that, I'll have to update this every two weeks because school's started again and I have so little free time now.

Anyway, today's update is a little different. Why? Because it starts with Meliodas' P.O.V!

Silver - You're really invested in the story. O.o Your last review was amazing and I literally began typing up the next chapter after reading it. But the tension's just beginning. *attempts evil chuckles* I think you'll really enjoy it though.

Till next time,

D.L.D


Meliodas' P.O.V

"So father still thinks I can come back?" I try not to laugh at the ridiculousness of that question. How unbelievable it sounded passing from my own mouth.

When I left the Demon schools five years ago, I knew what I was doing. I knew what would happen and I welcomed it with open arms. I accepted the unknown and decided to try and make the best of the situation - knowing I couldn't turn back. And why? Because I knew it would be better for me and Elizabeth. Well safer anyway.

At least by going to schools like Liones I wouldn't be forced to hate her and vice versa. None of us would have to think about the issues caused by our old schools and everything would be fine. Plus I'd have the chance to tell her what I really felt. If nothing ever seemed to get in the way. But all of that seemed to backfire tremendously after what happened at Danafor. What happened there is the one thing I regret after leaving the Demon schools behind. The one true sin in my life. Well that and not telling Elizabeth the truth when she was Liz, but that's a story for another time. A long and painful one at that.

"That's what he told us," Estarossa shrugged. He scratched his chin, aimlessly glancing off into the distance. "Something about eventually you'll stop bullshitting about and realise you made a mistake or something."

"Of course he did," I sigh as I think back to the many times they've reached out to me about this. My father's been on my tail about this for a while, however this time was different. It was more urgent. Warning. This time a lot of people's lives were on the line and Elizabeth and the Sins would be in danger. I don't think I can deal with all that blood on my hands again.

I was never one to be selfless, but this situation was backing me into a corner with no other way out. Options were growing limited and soon I'd have to choose. Whether I was ready or not.

"I'll think it over," I respond lazily, stuffing my hands into my pockets.

'Better to play it off as if it doesn't bother me much,' I study them both, trying to see any indications of anything amiss. So far both had perfect poker faces. No signs of any shady business.

"You're running out of time, Meliodas," Zeldris frowned as he looked at me. "You can't keep saying you'll think it over. Father's growing impatient."

"Well if I don't make my mind up, you can always take my place," I answer simply, shrugging, "I never cared about taking over after father anyway."

"Fine," Zeldris spoke as he and Estarossa shared a look. An odd one. Like a smile but hidden behind a neutral mask. They both seemed to chuckle as I studied them.

"You got something to share Estarossa?" I raise a brow as I smirk at him. He was the easiest to get answers from all thanks to his big mouth. He could never keep it shut.

"Nope," He answered blankly, his eyes quickly darting away from where they were watching.

Footsteps followed his answer and skepticism filled my senses as I eyed my brothers. Both wore blank expressions, but seemed intrigued by the footsteps. They faded as the owner traveled further away. The face of the owner already gone from my line of sight.

"I'm guessing you know who that was," I tilt my head as I look at them both.

"No, but hopefully they didn't hear much," Zeldris turned to check over his shoulder. "We wouldn't want them interfering with our business would we?"

"No, not at all," I respond coolly, my hands back in their pockets.

Act like you don't care, act like you don't care...

Tension filled the air, thick and suffocating, as we all scanned each other for any sign of hidden treachery, before nodding and deciding to end the discussion. Anyone could be listening in now that we'd discovered an eavesdropper. The subject of our talk was too sensitive to be leaked. Not until I figured out how to deal with the situation anyway.

"You'd better be sure next time," Estarossa warned, "I'm getting tired of meeting you instead of seeing what Elizabeth's doing."

"Leave her out of this," I clench my fists, glaring at the smirking Estarossa. I haven't forgotten about the stalking issue, let alone what he has planned for her. But...speaking of Elizabeth, I'd better check if she's ok. Everyone seems to have some sort of plan that involves her being on their side and she didn't look too happy at lunch. It probably didn't help that everyone was telling her what to do.

"So she is the reason you're hesitating," Estarossa continued earning a punch from Zeldris.

"That isn't important," He scowled, "Now let's go before you start a fight because of your stupid mouth."

"Like I'd let that happen," Estarossa rolled his eyes but followed Zeldris nonetheless. He mumbled as he followed, kicking a locker as he cut the corner.

Soon both had slipped from view, leaving me behind in a empty hall.

Just like old times.


Elizabeth's (normal) P.O.V

"It can't be true..." I breathe as I run down the hall. My footsteps echoed as I ran. "He wouldn't do that...They have to be lying..."

Tears streaked my cheeks as I continued to run, trying to calm my stormy thoughts. The only thing that remained constant right now was the rhythm of my feet.

Slap, slap, slap.

The sound of them connecting with the ground as I attempted to escape, filled the empty space. The perfect setting for such a situation.

Ludociel and the other Deity Society members had taken me in for a 'talk' after I first arrived. They had sat me down, offered me refreshments and acted as if the whole thing was a common occurrence. As if so many coincidences in one day, all against someone you have placed a lot of faith in, are normal. A daily occurrence in the experience we call life.

If only it was...

The information they entailed me with was anything but normal. But the weirdest thing was it made sense. All of it. The strange disappearances, the sudden appearance of ten of the best students from those schools - all of it linked back to what they told me.

But that would mean he's involved...

Wiping my eyes, I cut around the corner. By now the Society had stopped following me, probably knowing that I needed some time alone. Some time to think. I was always emotional so they would know. They would know I would need to get it out of my system before they could reason with me. Convince me.

But this - this...It was all too much. Way too much.

My mind was too boggled. Too active. Overworked. I needed somewhere to sit and just think it over. Crying is available too. Curling up in a ball and crying until the whole world melted away. All of the feelings and thoughts mixing into a vibrant swirl until it all just stopped. Faded. Went away. But maybe even talking for once, instead of crying and hiding, might do me good.

Yeah, maybe talking to someone would help. I've been holding in so much already. It's been a while since I've vented to someone and so much has happened in the past week. Talking may actually be my solution.

But who could I go to?

Diane was reliable, but what if she were to tell everyone? It would only stir up more of a fuss and that wouldn't be ideal. Elaine is a great friend, but even she had a lot to consider right now. She seemed so thoughtful at lunch and I'd hate to weigh on her problems even more.

Jericho, Arthur and Guila were more new friends, but even they would react wrong. The same with my sisters.

But who else could I go to?

I stop; Tears trickled down my cheeks and dripped onto the floor. My lip trembles as I fight the urge to just curl into a ball and sob. Just to sit there and pretend that everything would fade away. That none of this ever happened.

Then an answer appears, like a beam of light in the mist. Someone who should be able to help me and give me wise advice. She'd also know to keep it between us and not have suspicion from prying eyes. Merlin always was mysterious.

"I should go to Merlin," I say softly as I wipe away my tears again. They have stopped now, the resolve to find a way to make the situation better taking over. To find out the truth.

There was no time for tears. No time to think this over and feel sorry for myself. Right now I had to go to Merlin and tell her about what I know. How I feel about this situation. Once I've done that, I'll work on the rest.

Sniffling, I once again begin to race through the halls. However now I was on a mission to find someone; I wasn't trying to run away.

As I turned the corner I fell to the ground, my butt taking the forefront of the fall. I yelped before recollecting my senses and scrambling to get back up. It was only once I'd checked to make sure I hadn't dropped anything that I noticed the hand reached out to help me: Large and calloused from years of harsh training and schooling.

"Hey Elizabeth, you doing ok?"

I blink before turning red, a small grin spreading over my face. I could feel it trembling. I probably look like a wreck after the slight episode I just had. It's gonna be tough to fool him that I'm alright.

"Oh...um - yes I'm fine, Meliodas," I say as I take his hand and he helps me up. He doesn't seem convinced, probably noticing that I'd been crying, but he doesn't press on it.

"Sorry about that," He flashed me a sheepish grin. "It was a good thing I bumped into you though."

"Why?" I couldn't help but ask. I could hear my heartbeat echo in my ears, the loud thumps filled with dread.

If what the Society said was true, then this would probably be negative for me. A bad ending. But if they were wrong, I was just overreacting. Then it would be obvious that I had overheard something I shouldn't have. Then I would probably be questioned more and that would lead to more problems.

Recently, it seems everywhere I go there's a new issue.

"Just wanted to know if you were busy," Meliodas placed his hands behind his head. His tone was casual, nonchalant. Not a hint of his earlier conversation hidden behind it.

"Oh...well Veronica wanted me to do some stuff with her," I say, turning red as the lie rolls off my tongue. I instinctively bite the inside of my cheek, bashfulness taking over. I'm usually terrible at lying, but right now it comes easily. Like second nature. "But maybe another time."

I suppress a shiver as I spot his smile drop for a millisecond, before being back in place. It happened so fast you wouldn't notice unless you knew him well enough. A skill Meliodas developed over time.

Guilt sliced my gut, like a double-edged sword, making my mind swirl. I really wanted to tell him what was going on, what was bothering me, but it could lead to trouble. I need to find Merlin before I can even think of telling anyone about what I found. Then I can deal with everything else.

"Well I'd better get going, Veronica isn't too patient," I smile sheepishly before beginning to dash off.

"Yeah, see ya around," He gave me a wave and watched as I disappeared down the hall.

I sigh. Hopefully Merlin can give me some insight on this. I hate lying to people; especially him.


Meliodas' P.O.V

"Yeah, see ya around," I give Elizabeth a wave as I watch her disappear from view.

As usual her long silver hair swayed with the motion, contrasting greatly with the unusual behaviour she was displaying. And there was only one thing to draw from that: Something was going on with her. I don't know what, but it's caused something to change.

I frown as I try to think about what I could've possibly done to upset her. It could be anything judging by how vague she was, but at the same time I can't think of anything.

Elizabeth seemed fine earlier on and it was only after her meeting with the Deity Society that she'd acted so off. But maybe that was it. Maybe the Deity Society had said something like I'd anticipated, and judging by what happened just now Elizabeth was probably thinking it over.

But what could they know about me?

I begin to walk in the opposite direction, thinking as I travel towards somewhere in this school.

It had to be something incriminating. Something that could even be interpreted wrong if seen at the wrong angle -

"Hey Cap'n!" I glance up and spot Ban jogging up to me. He carried an extra bag and grinned. "Just scored a whole bag of treats from some nerd from the Cooking Club."

"And why did you steal them when you can cook?" I tease as I walk beside him, easily keeping pace with his long strides.

"Because~" Ban rolled his eyes. "I can't always cook for you, either you or Elizabeth's gotta learn to cook and my bet's on princess."

"Wow no faith at all?" I feign being hurt, shaking my head.

"Nope, not at all," Ban chuckled as he passed me a paper bag from inside the backpack. "Plus this bag belonged to one of those Society members."

"So you weren't just looking for a snack were you?" I raise a brow as he nods. "What were you doing?"

"Giving you a chance to clear things up with princess," Ban sniffed as he elbowed me. "She seemed pretty upset so whatever you're hiding you better tell her."

"Yeah, like I'm hiding anything," I scoff as I open the bag and take out a cookie. It was covered in sugar.

"Nice try, but even Diane knows something's up," Ban laughed as he went inside the backpack again and pulled out a doughnut. "Now I'm not gonna pry or anything, but you should tell her what's going on. Might give her some peace you know?"

I take in his words, cautiously eyeing him to see if these cookies were actually normal or were laced in truth serum or something. Nothing indicated such and so I took a bite.

"I'll think about it," I say as we pass the infirmary.

"This might be your only chance though," Ban continued, his tone sounding oddly wise. "You know I'm not sentimental and all that shit, but if I had to tell Elaine something important like this I'd tell her. Better to lose her to the truth than to anyone else right?"

I peer at Ban and he simply continues normally, doughnut in mouth like a dog carrying a bone. He has both backpacks on, one on his back and one on his front like those baby carrier things. Although he looks ridiculous, his words were actually kinda right. But that wasn't what was puzzling me. What was confusing was why Ban of all people was telling me this. I'd expect King or maybe even Merlin to say something; Ban usually gets involved when it's gone shit hits the fan bad.

But maybe it has...

"What happened to you over last period?" I ask, laughing and he raises a brow.

"Nothing, I just grabbed some treats," He shrugged. "But I did find something out, I'll tell ya later at the Boar Hat."

"Sure, I was thinking about grabbing a drink before opening up," I shrug.

"Same, great minds think alike!" Ban smirked as he put an arm around my shoulder. "Hey why don't we do shots? I'm in a good mood today and it's not too often you wanna get drunk anymore."

I just shake my head as Ban babbles on about what to do before opening up, meaning the cook was gonna be drunk again.

But while he was talking about getting wasted, I focused on what to do next. And I decided that getting as close to being drunk as I can might help with telling Elizabeth the truth.

After all Ban's words did have some logic behind them.


Elizabeth's (normal) P.O.V

"Thank you for clearing your schedule Merlin," I smile softly as the ravenette offers me her usual smile.

"It's no problem at all, Elizabeth," She sat across from me, her uniform replaced with a sleeveless halter top and extremely short shorts. "In fact I've been expecting you."

"You have?" I bite my lip as I look at the mysterious female across from me. Merlin seemed to know more than she reveals and what she keeps hidden seems to be more than just a small fraction. In fact it seems to be quite a lot of knowledge.

The senior year smirked as she saw me thinking. She then flicked her wrist and tea set entered the room, landing neatly on the table with a small clatter.

"It often helps with these sorts of conversations," Merlin clarified as the teapot began to pour an amber liquid into the cups. "So, why have you come to me today? You usually don't call for my assistance."

I blush slightly, caught off guard by the observations Merlin had made. Judging by her demeanour she knew that I came because my issue was serious. It wasn't about escaping my Holy Knight bodyguards and trying to go to an actual school instead of being homeschooled. It was about not ending up in danger and figuring out how to solve what was going on.

"Well," I begin, my teeth sinking into my bottom lip. "I overheard something."

"Overheard what, dearie?" Merlin asked, but not in a rude and obnoxious tone. It was more like a grandmother or parent asking a child to elaborate on something. "I can't help if I don't know."

I gulp, knowing that I would just have to speak the truth and nothing but it. Just the plain, brutal truth. The reality.

"Everything I say stays in here right?" I ask, my voice shaking slightly. My hands nervously twist together, one squeezing the other like a wet cloth or towel.

I can't deny that I'm afraid. That I'm terrified of what will happen if the wrong people find out I know too much. That I told someone what I know. It would lead to a lot of trouble and chaos. Not to mention violence.

"Everything remains confidential," Merlin nodded as if reading my thoughts. She takes a sip of her tea and gestures for me to do the same.

I hesitate. Merlin is known for experimenting on everything she can get her hands on. I had learned that when babysitting her those few years ago. She always had a new idea on what to find out or test. I or any pets that were around, were often the subject of her testing.

"Don't worry it's not tainted," Merlin grinned knowingly, her eyes glistening with honesty.

I breathe out, relieved, before shakily reaching for the cup. I lift the object, my hand wrapping around the warm porcelain and causing the comforting sensation to travel through me. The safe hear made me feel slightly safer and I took a gulp of the liquid tasting apple and cinnamon.

"Ok, now you're feeling more relaxed," Merlin continued, her face leaning into her palm. "Why don't you tell me what happened?"

I nod, taking in a deep breathe before starting. It was a lot to remember, but somehow I managed to get it out the tea calming me when recalling the events.

"I was meeting the Deity Society," I say, my voice steady as I think back to around an hour ago. "The halls were empty and so I was taking my time to clear my head and enjoy the silence, while still looking out for the Commandments."

Merlin nodded, waving her hand for me to continue. She already knew about this. About my meeting and what the Commandments had planned for me. She was aware of this from before.

"I heard Meliodas' voice and since he was acting so off I thought I'd listen in to see what was bothering him," I begin to fidget as I remember hiding just around the corner, spotting Zeldris and Estarossa talking to him. The feeling of betrayal and all of the spiraling questions that suddenly formed.

Merlin had to bring me back, the sharp sound of her clicking reminding me to stay focused.

"Sorry," I turn red, attempting to hide my face in the pigtails Diane had styled my hair into. It failed terribly. "Where was I?"

"You were at the point where you heard Meliodas talking," Merlin nodded as she glanced at me.

"Ok, well I peeped around the corner to see who he was talking to and I spotted his brothers," I continue, keeping my head clear as I focus on the words. "They were talking about a choice, something about the demon schools and Meliodas deciding. I'd had enough after a point and ran off to the Society clubroom."

"I see," Merlin hummed as she thought. "I'm guessing they didn't help did they?"

"No, not at all," I glance at the floor, tears gathering in my eyes as I recall what the Society had told me. "They said it was evidence that - that he was on their side again. That he was abandoning me because it was easier to just revert back to darkness," I sniff as I wipe my eyes with my shirt sleeve, "They explained that the Ten Commandments plan on eradicating all of the Celestial schools, not to mention their students, and that - that he had planned it all. That everything was just a ruse! So I took off from there too. I - I don't know how but I found myself thinking that you'd know what to do. So I came here and I - I..."

I was now a mess once more, tears springing to my eyes and words incoherently slipping out. It was a waterfall of words and emotions, me trying to wrap my head around it, while Merlin watched in empathy.

"Well you thought right to come here," Merlin sigh as she looked at me, concern in her eyes. She then gave me a hug, her perfume filling my nose and she calmed me down.

She rubbed my back, telling me not to worry and that she could help. She then got me to drink more tea and then sat back down across from me. Her eyes didn't stray from me however, concern and understanding mixed within their golden depths.

"I guess I should tell you, if you don't wish to make the same mistake as me," Merlin sighed as she ran a hand through her hair.

"What is it?" I ask, sniffling as I slowly recovered from my breakdown.

"Well my past really," Merlin smiled softly, but her eyes looked somewhere far off. Somewhere distant from this school. In a completely different time. "I mean I wasn't that old when the Demon King and Supreme Deity contacted me."

I looked at Merlin and she seemed to sigh, her eyes drifting into a completely different world.

"I guess it started the day I got a letter to attend one of their masterclasses. A child protégée of Belialuin, the perfect student for their schools..."