Between Worlds (TEMP HOLD)

Meanwhile In The Underworld

       Xavier thought his fears had disappeared entirely. Ever since his return from Poseidon's sanctuary, Xavier had felt particularly unwelcome. His necklace felt ice cold, despite his blood that felt hot and sweet. He was ashamed of himself for not putting up more of a fight. That ache fills his chest, and Xavier suddenly wished that he could have accepted Ares' offer. He still might have spent longer with Ariel; and this punishment would have been prolonged just a little longer.

           Tears roll down his gray green eyes. He was on his knees, and completely at Zeus's mercy. I have so much to live for. This can't be the end. Not yet. Xander was screaming for him, and Xavier knew his brother must fall in line, or succumb to punishment with him.

          "Please... " Xavier's voice was almost a whisper. His voice was soft. He hated seeming so weak in front of Xander. Xavier has always been the scary older brother; mysterious and strong. Xavier was hardly ever around with his his brother, always off corrupting the universe. But now, Xander got to see his brother broken and weak.

          Zeus laughs. "Oh, we'll wait until Ariel arrives for our punishment to begin. She'll be the one punishing you. And if she can't - well - you'll be jumping into Tartarus. This is a game of the mind. Let's play it, and see who's capable of what. Yes? And well, afterwards, you can punish her. Until then, simply try not to move so much."

          The screams of Tartarus reach Xavier's ears, and his chest twists and his stomach churns. Would his screams join theirs?

           Xavier has hurt so many people in his past. He has seen tears and heartbreak, and he did not deserve his happy ending, no matter how many times Ariel tried to convince him otherwise. Xavier knew he couldn't hurt her, vowed not to hurt her and he  knew that he would keep good on his promise. No matter what.