Disclaimer- I own nothing.

Chapter 11 Aftermath

Owen had been walking a trench in the break room for over a hour now. After their failure in the grave yard, they had went back to base to regroup. A little while after, Defoe and his team had came back to base defeated. However, the big problem with this was the fact that they were a man short.

His best friend was missing, normally this wouldn't be a big problem. Lok would go to his room after a long day of training, or a light assignment. Owen had went to Lok's room to invite him out to eat and go over the mission report . Only to find out he wasn't there, after asking around he found out he never came back.

Obviously he responded the best way a trained suit could. He immediately found Jenna and flipped out. She tried to reassure him that it was probably nothing. Unfortunately after a day of him being missing, even she would admit she was starting to get a little worried.

With that the two had called for a meeting, hence why Owen was walking around silently racking his brain trying to think of where his friend would be. Tony was sitting next to James. Tony's right leg was bouncing up and down. His toes never leaving the ground. James was calmly sipping a small espresso while reading a small book.

Tabitha was resting her back along the back side of the room. Silently seething in an ever growing rage, ether at Tony's leg shaking or her recent loss. It was anyone's guess. A foot to her left was Delilah, the short haired blonde woman sitting backwards in one of the many wooden chairs. Her green eyes shifting between Tabitha and Tony. Ready to intervene if things went south quick.

Vince and Diana were sitting at the main table, quietly talking. No one could hear the exchange, but they could assume it was theories or placing bets. Last but not least was Jenna, she was sitting quietly next to Lok's chess set. Rolling the white Rook peice between her fingers, while appearing calm on the outside. Owen could tell she was worried about Lok just as much as he was.

After a few moments, the silence finally broke. Tony slapped his right knee and shot up. His fists clenched at his sides. "This is bullshit ! Not only did we lose to Dante, we lost the titan, and Lok is missing. The worst part is no one is telling us anything !" Tony's voice carried throughout the room, booming and unchallenged.

Until Tabitha let out a scoff, the room went deathly quiet as Tony spun to face Tabitha. The sound of a pen drop could be heard. The tension hanging heavy in the air. "Got something to say Tabitha? Oh please do enlighten us." Tony spat out in an unofficial challenge.

Tabitha's eyes widened as she shot from the wall. Delilah jumped from her seat in an attempt to stop her. Only to be knocked into the floor from the power house. Before anyone could blink she had Tony pressed against a wall. The front of his shirt clenched tightly between her fingers. "Yeah I got something to say. We wouldn't be in this mess if you had done your job and took care of Vale and his team." She hissed at him, her nose just a few inches away from Tony's own nose.

Tony did not back down, he shoved himself forward and rammed his forehead into Tabitha's. The two in a clash of strength. "Oh yeah ? By that logic, the same could be said about your lot. If you had beaten Vale and his team we wouldn't be here." He grind at the now red faced woman, her teeth grinding together as she stewed on his words.

However James, Owen, and, Jenna didn't miss out on the fact that Tony had stolen the line that Dante Vale had told him the other night. Before anyone could call him out, a soft thud went through out the room. James had stood and tapped the book he was reading on top of the heads of the clashing suits. "Now, you two go sit down."

Tony and Tabitha turned to glare at the man, their little spat on hold. However, James pulled his glasses off. Showing pure fury in his gray eyes, sending a chill down Tony's spine, and made Tabitha sweat slightly. "Do I have to repeat my self ?" He asked calmly. The two shook their heads quickly and took a seat at the table next to Vince and Diana.

Looking over at the two, making sure the fighting was done and over with. His gray eyes shifted towards Owen, walking back to his seat he gently sat back on the cushion. "Now then, I believe Owen and Jenna called us here for a reason." He gently crossed his arms and nodded at them, giving them the floor.

Owen gave James a thankful smile, before refocusing on the group in front of him. "Thank you. So as we all know, last mission did not go as well as planned." He gave a brief pause. Seeing the looks of defeat, and some faces turning into looks of pain at the statement.

"Unfortunately, Lok also hasn't been seen since he went with Defoe and Grier." He stated as he crossed his arms, letting the fear grip back to his chest. Until Vince leaned back in his chair.

"Look, I get it. We are all kind of worried for the kid, but it's not like he can't take care of himself. Besides, no one has reported anything. Wouldn't it make sense that if something was wrong the Professor would send out the reserves just to find him ?" Vince questioned, the other members of the group seemed to agree to his logic.

Before Owen could respond, Jenna got up from her seat and stood next to him. "While that would make sense, I have a feeling that's not the case." Jenna walked over to Vince and Diana. "So that's why we have decided to try and find him." She pulled out a folded map of the city of Prague. The map was divided into four sections, and in each section it was split down the middle.

Diana glanced at the map for only a moment before she shot a glare at Jenna. "Now hold on one second, we are not seriously going to search this city top to bottom just to find the kid are we?" Before she could continue her rant, she was shut down by Jenna slamming her hand on the table and glaring down at her. "Yes, yes we are."

Before Diana could protest, Vince let out a tired sigh before a grin came to his lips. "Looks like I'm gonna have to cancel my reservation." He stood up pulling out his phone, looking as if he was sending someone a text.

Diana let out a scoff as she gave him a dead pant stare. "Wait you're really planning on going out there?" With a shut of his phone he gave her an award winning smile. "Yep." Was all that he said as he walked over to Owen and Jenna. Owen gave him a thankful nod and a pat on the shoulder.

She looked around the room towards everyone else. Seeing a look of resolve in each set of eyes. "Not you guys too." She groaned out as Delilah gave her a shrug and made her way over to the now growing group. "Come on Diana, he would do the same for us." Was all the blonde said as she stood beside Vince.

"count me in." Was the two voices of Tony and Tabitha as they simultaneously stood from their seats. They give each other a hateful glare, before reluctantly making their way to the rest of the group. James silently stood and walked over to the map. A pleased smile on his face at the momentary truce between the two.

Diana look at each member of the group, not really believing what she was seeing. After a few moments, she shook her head and mumbled something under her breath. She stood up and walked around to look at the map properly. "Fine, let's go find the kid."

Before the group could plan any further, the sound of clapping could be heard. It was slow, yet meaningful. The group turn around to see the Professor staring at them. Realizing that they were busted they got in line and stood at attention.

Fear shot up Owen's spine, he didn't really get this little outing authorized. However, it was his plan. So he would be taking the wrap for this. "Sir I can explain-" however before he could finish. The Professor's hand slowly raised up, holding the next words coming out of his mouth.

"Now now, no need to worry. In fact, I'm honestly impressed." The Professor walked up to them and gave them a warm smile. "This is the kind of camaraderie the founding fathers of the organization intended." With a swift tap of his cane he turned and began to make his way out of the room.

He made it to the entrance of the door way before pausing. "We know exactly where Lok is, so do not worry. He is safe and sound." The group all let out a sigh of relief at the news. Diana merely rolled her eyes, her way of saying I told you so.

The Professor moved to the side of the door, with a swift tap of a cane the group went rigged and gave him their undivided attention once more. "Now then, now that this has been all settled, why don't you all get back to your post." The Professor's voice was calm, but they all knew they should get out while they can.

One by one they all left, each member giving a respectful nod as they passed the Professor. As Owen and Jenna went to leave, the Professor stopped them. Placing his cane in front of them, blocking their only way out. "Would you two care to join me ? I have matters I would like to discuss." The Professor didn't wait for a reply as he placed his cane back on the ground and began to walk out of them room. Owen and Jenna simply giving one another and fearful look before following dutifully.

The Professor had began to slowly walk down one of the many hallways of the headquarters. The only sound being the tapping of his cane. It had Jenna and Owen on edge, not really expecting what was going on. They had a feeling however, it may not be good.

They stopped in front of an elevator, Owen couldn't recall ever seeing this one. He gave a glance towards Jenna, however he only received a shrug in response. With a soft click of a button the elevator arrived. The doors open slowly, Owen wouldn't lie. He expected something horrible to happen. Thankfully it was just empty.

The Professor walked in, the other two slowly following after. "Owen, be a gentleman and hit the button would you." The professor commanded gently. Which Owen complied instantly. He was thankful that there was only one button. Which then lead to his confusion, however he didn't question it as the elevator slowly went downwards.

The elevator was pretty spacious all things considered, Owen and Jenna gave each other a small glance once again. Before they could try and communicate silently, the Professor's voice came from behind them. "You're probably wondering where I'm taking you." His voice was smooth, and almost soothing. The two could only nod, afraid to say something wrong.

The Professor slowly began to tap his fingers against the head of his cane. The tapping almost in perfect sink with the sounds of the motors to the elevator. "You see, I appreciate the loyalty you have towards Lok." With a solid clank. The elevator doors slowly open, they stepped aside to let the Professor step off first. "And loyalty. Gets rewarded." He stated simply as he made his way down a well lit hallway leading to a set of double doors.

Walking through the double doors they see a single room separating them and the room by thick glass. In said room was a twin size bed. Surrounded by medical equipment, and medical staff. Lying in the center of the circle was an unconscious Lok. Who appeared to be resting, he was missing his vest and shirt. Only having on his dress pants and leather shoes. He was hooked up to a heart monitor, with an oxygen mask over his mouth. Owen went to go check on his friend, however Jenna caught his arm. Having the same idea as him, only having better judgment against it.

Owen looked over his friend, he couldn't help but wince at his bruised midsection. It was a nasty purple, yet still see red around it. His left arm matched his stomach, visibly bruised and battered. It also looked like his right wrist was swollen, not as bruised as his left arm.

"Two shattered ribs, with a single broken rib, a punctured lung, fractured left arm, internal bleeding, and multiple bruised organs. Doctor had informed me, if we hadn't found him when we did. He would have drowned in his own blood." The Professor stated the medical report he had received. He tone stone cold, his eye narrowed at the broken image of his son. Owen took a singular step forward. "H-how did you find him?"

The professor looked down at his ring on his right hand, the light of the room made the red gem shine ever so slightly. "Oh I have my ways, however I'm showing you this room for two reasons. The first is because you two care deeply for Lok. Dare I say it reminds me of my old adventuring days with my comrades." The two however did not notice how the Professor's grip on his cane tightened harshly at his words.

Jenna turned from Lok to look at their leader. "What's the second reason?" She asked quietly, still trying to get over the damaged state Lok was in. Without warning Owen and Jenna hit the floor hard.

Owen was caught off guard, his face stung from the impact on the floor. He tried to look around but couldn't see anything. He tried to move but failed miserably. He was struggling to lift his head to look at the Professor. He was so confused, what was causing this? He thought to himself as he turned his head to Jenna who was in the same boat as him. Barely able to lift her head, sweat was dripping down her forehead from the pressure alone.

"The second reason is quite simple." The Professor walked close to the two. The bottom of his cane slammed in between their heads. Mere inches from their cheeks, his voice ice cold.

"I have many enemies. Enemies who would jump on a chance like this. To try and kill Lok while he is weak." The Professor kneeled down on one knee, glaring at the two before him. "That's why you don't interfere with matters that concern Lok." He knelt down even closer, his tone in almost a hushed whisper. "If you ever try to go beyond your means like this again, you will regret it dearly. Everything I do is for a reason. Never forget."

As he said his piece, the pressure suddenly lifted off Owen and Jenna's back. However, they dare not move. The Professor stood at his full hight once more. "Now. Leave." He commanded them sternly, with out missing a beat the two quickly stood to leave.

As they made it to the elevator, Owen suddenly stopped. He quickly spun around and kneeled once more. "Professor, may I make a request?" Instead of a shaky voice, it was filled with determination.

"That would be ?" The Professor asked simply, his eyes never leaving Lok. Only thing keeping them separated was a glass window. Owen's head shot up to look at the Professor. "Could we speak with him once he wakes up?" His onyx eyes never looking away from the Professor's back. After a few moments the Professor finally decided to speak.

"If he is able, then yes." The Professor stated firmly, with that Owen and Jenna made their leave. Leaving the Professor alone. Watching as the medical team used everything they could to heal the boy. After a few minutes the medical team left the room. The head doctor came up to him, removing his gloves and face mask.

"Good news Professor, he will make a quick recovery. A few days of light duty. Our spells managed to heal the ribs to an almost complete recovery. Along with the organs. He will just be stiff and sore as hell for a few weeks. The only thing I could recommend is strong pain killers" The Profesor nodded and dismissed them from the room. Leaving him alone with Lok and his thoughts.

A few minutes had passed until another person joined the Professor. The person was an elderly man, his skin sunken and wrinkled. He wore a dark red under shirt, underneath a black vest. Along with dark gray dress pants, black dress shoes walking along the floor effortlessly. So silent you would miss him if you weren't paying close attention. His dark green eyes glanced at the Professor, the monocle over his right eye shined in the reflecting of the lights. In his hands was a small leather hand bag, one you would see a university professor carry. Almost giving him an impression as such.

"Thank you for meeting me here Klaus." The Professor stated genuinely, having a mutual respect for the man and his work. For that reason, he had put the man in charge of research and development for the organization. He looked to the older man and gave him a firm nod.

"Think nothing of it good Professor, I must admit. I am very curious about your findings. You said that the boy broke free of the spell?" A thick German accent dripped from the man's words. His right eye having a small glint while looking at Lok.

"He came close, I felt the magic fade for only a moment." The Professor stated. A scowl forming on his face as he thought of that split second. All of his plans could have came crashing down, in just a split second. The thought made the Professor's blood boil.

"Do not worry Professor, I will give him a once over. A few scans should bring some light to this manner." Klaus stated as he walked over to a free table to the side of the room. He placed his leather bag on the table and began to pull a variety of objects out of the bag. "Tell me Professor, any chance of the boy waking any time soon?"

The Professor simply shook his head. "No, the sedatives made sure of that." He turned to Klaus as he hard a small metallic clank from the table. As he turned he saw Klaus with a small eerie expression on his face. In his right hand was a syringe. "Very good Professor, very good."

A soft alarm sounded through out a guest bedroom in the Casterwill estate. Cathy awoken from her slumber with a yawn. She gently snoozed the alarm, she had small bags forming under her eyes. Her eyes still red from the tears she shedded during the night. She let out a sigh and a slight hiss as she got out of bed.

She lifted her white silk pajama shirt slightly, seeing the top of the new scar on her hip. She didn't know how long she stared at it. Tracing her finger tip over the scared tissue, she recalled the events of that night in vivid detail. The rage she felt from her brother's gaze. The fear she had in her heart, and the pain. God the pain, not just the physical pain but the emotional stress. For a brief moment, the imagine of a younger Lok holding a puzzle her solved flashed in her mind. Before the feral grin of the older, more violent and vicious Lok took place in her mind.

She felt anger, anger at the fact she couldn't save him. Anger at the force that took her brother away from his family. The more she thought about it, the more angry she became. Her blood began to boil, her breathing became rapid. She quickly walked to the expensive dresser and slammed her hands on the top of it. "God damn it !" She shouted out loud. The mere slam not being enough to quell her rage. She glared down at her hands, the hands that were not strong enough. She spun around and caught her reflection in the full body mirror standing off to the corner of the room.

As she looked into the mirror she froze. Her boiling blood now went cold as she saw her reflection. As she saw her face, for only a moment. It was the same as Lok's. The same angry expression, the look of wanting to inflect pain. Her face slowly softened into a sorrowful expression. She felt a sting in her eyes. Her emotions running rampant, she felt fresh hot tears running down her cheeks yet again.

Falling to her knees she wrapped her arms around her self, a sob escaped her throat. "Why, why does it have to be like this. Lok, please come back." Her voice cracked. Her shoulders began to shake. Her finger gripped into her flesh as she began to slowly breathe in and out.

No, no she wasn't going to cry. Tears will not bring her brother to his senses. She roughly wiped her eyes, wiping away the now forgotten tears. She nodded to her self, her lips forming into a thin line. "No matter what, I'll always have your back." She quickly got up and went through her morning routine.

She looked over her self in the mirror, she was wearing a long sleeve black shirt, with a white short sleeve shirt over it with a hood attached. She pulled on the string until they were the same length. Light blue jeans that fit snuggly, light brown hiking boots to tie the look together. She placed Freelancer's amulet around her neck. Giving it a small pat she looked at her face again. She took a deep breath, she held it for a few moments. Letting out a deep sigh she place the best smile she could on her face. "Alright, time to face the day!" She said enthusiastically.

She left her room, the smell of eggs, bacon, and pastries filled her sense of smell. She felt her mouth water, following the smell down the steps. She walking into the kitchen, seeing LeBlanche. He wasn't wearing his fitted tailored jacket, instead he wore a crisp freshly pressed white apron. Even as he was cooking, there was not a single stain on it. She was honestly impressed with his skill in the kitchen.

The older man's eyes met hers, a fatherly smile graced his lips. "Ah good morning lady Cathy. How did you sleep ?" He asked joyfully as he began to hum a classical music piece. Which one Cathy would never know. "I slept well, thank you." She lied with ease, she was use to it. Her mother and herself did it every morning. Looking her mother in the morning acting like everything was okay. When her father went missing, it was hard. Then when Lok disappeared, it became unbearable. After a few years it got better. However, no meal was the same after another seat was left empty at the table.

"Would you like help with anything ?" Cathy asked with a bright smile on her face. Hopefully giving a helping hand would keep her distracted from going down a dark rabbit hole in her memories. LeBlanche returned the smile with one of his own. " I have everything finished here, however. If you would be so kind as to awaken lady Sophie for me ? Usually she is awake by now." Cathy responded with a smile and a thumbs up. She excused herself and made her way to Sophie's room.

Cathy couldn't help but wonder why Sophie was still in bed. From what she knew about her friend was she woke up very early. Granted, it wasn't late. In fact it was still rather early. Eight in the morning to be exact, however she always seemed to but up before the sun. Hopefully everything was alright, she was probably overthinking it. They did have a hectic flight back, surely that was it. At least she hoped.

Sophie found her self standing across from Lok, a scowl on her face and an arrogant smile on his. "Well well problem girl. Came here all on your own ? Rather gutsy all things considered." He stated as he began to play with the leather gloves on his hands.

Sophie merely scoffed at his verbal jab. Her eyes glaring holes into the blondes face. "Please, I have more than enough skill to take you on." Lok's head tilted to the side slightly. She could almost see the confusion in his eyes behind his sunglasses. "Fight me ?" His voice questioned with high amusement. Suddenly he was gone, as if he was a ghost. Sophie looked around her, the world around her shifted into a dark black void.

Suddenly two strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind her. She felt a chin press against her shoulder, the sensation of someone's hot breath met the flesh of her skin. "Who said anything about fighting problem girl ?" The voice belonged to Lok, before Sophie could do anything she felt two soft lips press gently into her neck. The warm touch of the lips shot waves of electricity down her body. She began to feel her cheeks began to burn, turning into a flushed mess.

"L-Lok. What are you- " she was cut off as she felt a soft pinch on her neck. If the kiss sent electricity down her body, the bite made her feel fire. She began to breathe heavily, her hands reaching up and running her fingers through the blondes hair. She began to feel the bare hands of Lok run up her body. His fingertips exploring and memorize every inch of her. The sensation of his touch began to drive her mad. She knew they had to stop, but every part of her body screamed for him to continue.

Without warning she found her self spun around and place against the dark void, as if there was a wall behind her. Yet nothing was there, she wanted to question this. However the only thing that came from her throat was a moan as Lok trailed kisses up her collar bone and to her neck. She felt a warm sensation fill her chest, this was a new feeling she never experienced before. She craved more, reaching up she grabbed Lok's collar and forced her lips on to his. She felt the kiss between them go off like an explosion. Instead of fire and destruction, it was pleasure and euphoria.

She felt Lok's right hand reach under her shirt, his hand gently caressing her midriff. The bare skin on skin contact feeling somewhat familiar, she tried to ignore it. Wanting to feel lost in the moment, yet her brain was screaming danger. Lok's hand turned horizontally, with the simple move she remembered what had happened in Venice.

She removed her hands from his hair, she quickly placed them on his chest and shoved him away. She found her self short of breath, but back on her two feet. She glared at Lok, her hands out stretched still from her shove. At first he looked hurt and confused, before a dark smile came to his face.

Sophie was confused, she was then horrified as two trails of blood began to run from the corners of his mouth. She looked at him and saw a hole in his chest. How did that happen, she didn't do that. She looked at her hands and let out a gasp. In her right hand was the impale spell, the foot long spike glowing angrily. The tip was covered in fresh blood. As she looked up, all she could see was Lok's bloody smile.

"I told you problem girl. I like you." Lok walked closer to her, she found her self taking a step back as two glowing orbs of blue and green fly around him. "Never change." He stared as the orbs of light turned into Grand Facade and Incubane. The bloody Lok who was bleeding more heavily from him chest gave her an eerie smile. He slowly raised his hands, and with a crisp snap of his fingers his two titans charged.

Suddenly Sophie what awaken with the sound of a cheerful Cathy, and the bright sunlight. Her eyes immediately scanned the room for any signs of danger. Realizing she was safely in her room, she took a deep breath to calm herself.

"Good morning Sophie, hope you are hungry! LeBlanche made a big meal to start off our day." Cathy stated with a smile that rivaled the brightness of the morning rays. Sophie couldn't help but be comforted by her friend's expression.

"Of course, allow me to get ready and I'll be right down." Sophie replied, trying to match Cathy's energy, hopefully hiding the aftermath of her nightmare. Whether or not it worked she couldn't tell. Cathy merely nodded her head and politely excused herself to let the girl have her privacy.

Sophie quickly got ready, running through her morning routine she finished it by checking her reflection. She looked at her face. Not noticing anything wrong with her appearance. However she felt her right hand move unconsciously to her lips. She remembered her time at the library, where she had kissed the boy invading her dreams. She wouldn't lie, it was her first. She didn't know why she did it. Initially it was to catch him off guard, so she could take him out.

What she didn't expect was the kiss to feel...feel so. Exhilarating. In that one moment she felt something she never felt before. She knew what she was feeling was foolish. For some reason, for which she couldn't even explain. She had an attraction to the organization suit.

At first she felt rage when looking at him. The rage slowly turned to curiosity. After her last encounter with him, she felt fear. He had completely outclassed her, she felt as if nothing she could do would stop him. Yet behind her fear, the pain, and their battles. She felt as if something had changed. During their first encounter he didn't hold back and was planning on killing her, then the kiss. After that moment, when she fought Lok she noticed he did not fight her all out.

Granted Lok and Grand Facade had them beat soundly, much to her dismay. He never once tried to kill her. Yes, he fought her. Yes she was on the losing end, but deep down. She felt as if he wasn't planning on killer her.

She scoffed as she thought longer on was she realized. This wasn't a fairy tale. This was reality, she will defeat him. Knock sense back into Cathy's brother. She may have lost their last battle. However, she will win the next one. She will make sure of it. She wasn't foolish, after her last showing she knew she needed more training. Thankfully Dante was planning on teaching them a new spell along side hand to hand. She made her way towards the door as she heard Cathy call for her once again. She will always appreciate her friend's cheerfully attitude. Cathy was a bright light in her life, and she wouldn't trade her for anything.

As she stoped in front of her door, her hand resting gently on the handle. Her thoughts once again went to the blonde boy. No, she thought about Lok. Maybe if things had been different. She could see the two of them getting along swimmingly. Her mind shifted back to the dream she had. Her cheeks had a slight crimson blush, with a quick shake of her head she let out sigh. "Maybe in another life." She mumbled out to her self as she opened her door. Ready to take on any challenge that came her way. Her best friend by her side, she would be ready.

"So tell me Klaus. What did you find ?" The Professor asked patiently. Klaus had been doing experiments for a few hours now. He had waited patiently watching the man take samples, scans, and every time listening as the man only let out a hum each time.

Klaus simply looked up from his findings, a small eerie smile on his face. "Well Professor, I have discovered a few things. Some you might like, the others not so much." Klaus made his way to a computer, after a few strokes of the keyboard an imagine of a brain came up on screen. It appeared normal at first glance. However if you looked at it could see the imagine was covered in what was appearing to be a light fog. The brain was covered in small spots. Almost as if the scan was corrupted.

"what I can guess this is, is left over residue from Araknos. This is a scan of the boys brain when he was seven. After his first... reconditioning." Klaus stated as he pulled up another scan, this one looking almost the same. However, a small part of the brain seemed different. Misshaped even. "And this one is just the one I just took."

The Professor gave a small nod, looking at the difference between the two photos a question came to his mind. Before he could ask, Klaus had continue his explanation of his findings. "Now, as you can see. There is a difference in the photos. What you see here." He pointed at the different shape in the newer scan. "That's the part of the brain that controls emotional responses. What I only guess is this happened when you tried to bring out Lok's more... hmmm violent tendencies."

The Professor nodded once more. "Yes, when he was first brought to me I tried to completely rewrite his memories. Along with an attitude correction. I wanted my attack dog to be lethal." The Professor wasn't disappointed, Lok had a tendency to be ruthless. All it took was a little push, and a few years of nurturing.

"Yes, which has caused deformation and the chemical unbalance in his brain. Which could have other side effects. Mostly mood swings, aggressive episodes, and so forth. I must say the headaches you use as a shock collar do not help." Klaus said passively, it didn't really matter to him at all. He did want to give the Professor all the facts.

"What is your point ?" The Professor asked, his tone still calm however, a slight sense of irritation could be felt. He wanted for Klaus to get to the point.

"The boy's brain is damaged, when you tried to mess with his mind I imagine the power of Araknos was too much for a mere child's mind. Your small exposure treatments worked for a time. However, for some reason the boy seems to be becoming immune to them. I'd say if this keeps up, you would have to give him a treatment once a day." Klaus finished as he closed down the computer and turned to the Professor.

The Professor walked back up to the window, seeming to contemplate something. "Tell me Klaus, if I were to try Araknos again. Would his mind be able to handle it ?"

Klaus shook his head, he placed both of his arms behind his back. "I'm afraid not Professor, with the already damaged brain it may just turn him brain dead. However, maybe if you were to maybe. I would say, bring out his more violent side permanently?" Klaus asked not so innocently. The shine in his eye shamefully excited at the idea.

"Would there still be a chance of failure ? Would he still work?" The Professor asked, his eyes never leaving the Lok's face. His left hand gently playing with the ring on his hand.

"Who's to say Professor, the beautiful part of magic is that the fact it's not exact science." Klaus walked next to the Professor, his eyes now also on the boy. "However, in my opinion. I'd say the chance is very likely."

The Professor closed his eyes, thinking over his options. Klaus letting the man think. He was itching in anticipation of what choice will be made. On one hand, he lets things run their course. Hanging on to Lok by a mere thread. On the other, going through with the reconditioning once again. Keeping his pawn, but risking only having a mindless husk.

The Professor opened his eyes, a choice had been made. "Very well, Klaus call in the Doctor. I shall began the process." He commanded as he made his way into the room. The voice of Klaus halting him in his tracks with one simple question. "And if the boy doesn't make it?"

"Dispose of him." Was all that he said as he walked into the room. He stood beside Lok and waiting till he saw the Doctor. Once the man was by the door the Professor looked down to Lok. "I've put too much time and effort into you boy. It would be a shame to lose such a valuable pet."

With those words, the Professor placed his hand over Lok's eyes. His pointer and pinky on Lok's temples. He close his eyes for only a moment. Before whispering his next words. "Break his will and bend his mind. Legendary titan of mind... Araknos."

A bright red glow shined from the gem in the ring. Klaus and the Doctor had to cover their eyes from the bright red light. However, the Professor stared down at Lok. Never taking his eyes off his form. After a few moments Lok began to shift slightly.

Sounds came from his throat. As if he was talking in his sleep. He began to shift more, his breath began to become rapid. Suddenly without warning he began to thrash about. Which was impressive considering the amount of medication pumping through his body. Lok began to groan, then let out loud screams. It sounded as if his lungs were on fire. Lok's hands shot to the Professor's wrist. Squeezing it in an attempt to make him let go. The Professor felt Lok's tears running down his hand, running to his finger tips.

"Please! Please make it stop!" Lok's voice broke through his screams. He stopped squeezing the wrist and began in a weak attempt to hit it. The Professor stand strong, the boy couldn't scream anymore. The only thing that came from Lok was mere sobs and sounds of anguish. Until Lok's hand went back to the table. A small trail of blood came down Lok's nose.

The glow slowly disappeared as the Professor slowly removed his hand from Lok's face. The look that greeted the Professor was a blank face Lok. His eyes a dead blue, staring up. Stain trails of tears leading down his cheeks, only the ever so slight body twitch being an indication of life.

The Professor walked away and into the viewing room, standing next to the Doctor, who looked like he wanted to puke. Klaus with a honest to god smile on his face. He was eager to see the results of the experiment.

"And now, we wait." Was all as the Professor said, his eyes staring at Lok, his fingers playing with the ring once again.

Lok let out a small groan as he woke up, he couldn't remember what had happened. The last thing he remembered was fighting Cathy. Getting smashed into the wall, and somehow managed to get up before anyone could find him. Next the he remembered was being face down in a alleyway away from the Road Of Alchemist

However now, he found himself in a living room. Not one he recognized, and yet. Somehow did. He couldn't make sense of it. He found himself on a cozy dark green couch. In front of said couch was a modest size coffee table. Around him were walls of white, pictures lining the walls. To his left was a window with dark blue curtains.

He stood up, giving himself a once over. He was in his suit, gloves and all. Well that was nice at least. Reaching up he touched his chest. Only to not find Incubane's amulet. Now that was a problem, reaching into his vest. All of his amulets are gone. "Great." He mumbled to him self. Even though he didn't have his amulets, he didn't feel in danger. He wasn't in a cell, he was in a simple family home.

He walked to the window to look out side to get a view of his surroundings. Unfortunately all he saw was darkness. Not the darkness of night, but of a dark void. "Okay, now that strange." He said to himself, trying to keep himself calm. He walked to the wall looking at the pictures.

All of them consisted of four people, doing a variety of activities. Christmas celebration, camping, birthday, and what looked like family outings. The only thing that unnerved him was that it looked like all four faces have been scratched out. He could make out what he would assume to be a father, mother, daughter, and a son. "Now that's just some eerie shit." He said to himself.

He walked around the house, it seemed to be a single story home. Rather spacious, four bedrooms. Each with their own bathroom. Three bedrooms and a what looked like a guest room. One easily belonged to the parents, finding more photos. However, just as they had been in the living room. All the faces were scratched out.

The other belonged to the daughter, he couldn't say much about it. Other than, he could guess her favorite color was purple. The last bedroom, well it was honestly a wonder land. Crosswords, puzzles, and brain teasers galore. All of them finished and set neatly to the side. He was also a fan of the sky blue wallpaper.

Making his way into the kitchen, he could tell this is where a lot of the money went. It was decent size, granite everything. Stainless steel appliances, and a healthy size island in the middle of it all. Walking up to it he traced his fingers along the top. He couldn't help but have a sense of Dejavú. It seemed so familiar, yet horribly foreign.

He walked around the island, only stoping when he heard a soft voice let out a faint gasp and the floor squeak. He gently looked around the island and saw a small boy hiding in a tight ball. He was shaking like a leaf in the wind, he was a small boy. Looking no older than six or seven. He seemed to be wearing a dirty white T-shirt and worn out blue jeans. He walked towards the boy, gently getting on a knee. "Heya kiddo, you okay ?"

The little boy's head gently lifted upwards. Blue eyes meeting blue. The eyes of the younger blonde boy were shaking in pure horror. He looked malnourished, seemed as the boy hasn't eaten in days.

Lok gave him a once over. "Hey it's okay, I'm not gonna hurt you. I'm Lok, what's your name ?" He asked softly, hopeful he could get the kid to relax.

The boy only back up away even more. His head went back in between his knees. "You're not supposed to be here! I'm not supposed to talk to you!" The boy shouted back, his voice dripping in fear.

The outburst almost made Lok jump back, well almost. "Hey look I'm sorry." He held his hands up in surrender, until he noticed the boy's right arm. It was a dark angry purple. As if it had been bashed into something repeatedly. "That looks like it hurts. Want me to take care of that for you?"

The boy looked up to Lok, he hesitated before slowly nodding his head. He gently held out his arm, wishing for the pain to stop. With a nod Lok stood up slowly and looked around the house. Finding a first aid kit, he went back to the boy. Who seemed to have relaxed and was sitting on the Island.

Lok began to dig through first aid kit, placing the items on counter. He noticed the boy looking at him. "Something up ?" He asked gently.

The boy looked down to his feet, gently kicking them. "You have cool sunglasses. Sorry I didn't mean to stare." The boy looked like he was about to cry again. Until the sunglasses were gently placed on his face. The boy looked up to a smiling Lok. "You look pretty cool yourself." The kid only let out a giggle and began to look around the room with his new tinted vision.

Lok was glad he could finally work on the kid's arm. He didn't know why, he felt as if he should help the kid. He didn't have much experience with kids. He mostly just copied what he had seen Owen do. That man would make a great father one day.

After a while the arm was wrapped up, the kid gently began to move it around slowly. Testing the movement of his arm. "Hey ! It barely hurts now!" The kid smiled as he hopped off the counter and began to spin around lightly. "Thank you!" The kid said joyfully.

"You wanna tell me what happened?" Lok asked playfully, hopefully the happy mood could get the boy talking. However, that shut the boy down. He placed his hands behind his back. His eyes hitting the floor again. "I did something I wasn't supposed to."

Lok raised an eyebrow at the kid, kneeling down in front of the boy. He placed his hand on this kid's shoulder, making the child look up to him. Lok gently pushed the sunglasses to sit properly on the younger boy's face. "What did you do ?"

"I protected someone near and dear to me." The kid said as he looked back to Lok. A tear went down the boy's left cheek. Lok gave him a small smile. "That's good though, so what happened?"

The boy only shook his head. "No, I'm not supposed to talk to you." The boy gently took a step back, the fear returning tenfold. "Wait what would happen if you talk to me?"

The boy only looked down to the ground, his fist gripped his shirt. His feet shifting nervously, the boy looked like he was on the verge of a panic attack. "It will show up." He whispered out gently. "Who's he ?" Lok asked back.

"Not he. It." The boy said as smoke began to fill the house, the boy looked around in a panic. "Oh no! It's here!" The boy yelled out as he ran towards the bedroom. Before Lok could chase after the boy a sharp crash of pain went through his head. Lok fell down on his knees. His hands reaching towards his head.

He began look around the house, it was now in a blazing inferno. He looked to where the kid had ran off, seeing that he made it out of the kitchen safely. He let out another yell of pain as his head began to pound. "Please! please make it stop!" He yelled out into the blazing fire.

As if a switch was flipped on he realized where he was. It was his nightmares. He couldn't recognize the house, every time he was here, it was burning to the ground. Another wave of pain came through his head. Followed by another cry of pain. He felt blood beginning to run down his nose. He cried out in agony, his vocal cords felt as if there were about to snap. He looked forward, seeing a door he hadn't seen before. It looked like it lead to a basement. It slowly began to open, somehow the screech of the door drowned out everything around him.

Everything went silent, the only thing Lok could do was feel the pain in his head, and listen to the ringing in his ears. He looked into the dark void of the door, waiting. Eighteen glowing red orbs began to form in the dark. A hiss could be heard as a golden web like substance strung out and grabbed Lok. Slowly it began to drag him down into the basement. Lok tried to fight back, unfortunately each time he tried. Another sharp pain would leave the boy in pain and unable to fight back.

Suddenly Lok was dragged in, for a moment everything went dark. Lok felt tired, he couldn't fight. He was hurting to much. Everything, that's all he could think about. It all hurt.

If only Lok could see, he would see that he was trapped in a giant gold spiderweb. Slowly a cocoon webbing slowly began to wrap around Lok. The last thing that was covered were the boy's eyes dead blue. Almost appearing lifeless.

The professor watched as Lok's body began to shift and thrash wildly again. The heart monitor going ballistic. The Doctor ran in trying to do something, anything. After minutes of trying the monitor flatlined.

Klaus merely sighed as he collected his things, the Professor only stared at Lok as the Doctor called the time of death. He nodded his head and walked away. "My condolences Professor." He heard Klaus state, he merely nodded in response. Until a bright red light shined from his ring. Stoping both men in their tracks. Looking down he knew something instantly. A crash came from behind them, the duo turned around to see what caused the noise.

Lying in a pile of glass laid the Doctor. His neck broken at an ungodly angle. Blood running from his nose. They looked up at the door as it gently opened. After a few moments Lok silently made his way out of the room. "Lok my boy, tell me. How do you feel ?"

Lok looked at his right hand, it was still and unmoving. However the men could not see his face, his blonde bangs covering his eyes. A small chuckle came from the boy's lips. Then it turned into a mad fit of laughter. After a few moments, he finally calmed himself. "Why Father, better than ever." Lok's eyes stared into the Professor, instead of blue orbs. They were a crimson red. The Professor merely laughed as a devilish smile came across Lok's lips, as the red returned to a dead blue.

Authors notes- hey guys, one whole month. I tried to get it out sooner. However, this is a bit longer and juicy. Hope you guys enjoyed. Catch ya in the next one!

reviews - Mercedesxx07 , I'm glad you are enjoying the change to the story. Also maybe, maybe not haha. Later chapters will hold the answers. Hopefully you enjoyed this one as well !

editing notes- alrighty, this is the third and final edit of the chapter. I wrote the last little bit of this in a rush and with a lack of sleep, it obviously showed. I edited it before clocking into work at 5:30 AM. The third edit took place during my first break of the day. I'm sure I still missed a few things here and there. Of course, I'm not using it as an excuse. I should do better and will do so. Love ya guys! Be cool, B-king out !

P.s. - GodOfWind200, I love the comment you left on the chapter!