Even Demons Can Be Saved

Feast for Foes?

As soon as they were alone in the room, Sephiroth pulled out his phone. He checked in with their troops and advised them to hold their position. He also let them know they expected to be negotiating for several days. Eve gave him a curious look but didn't have to wait long to find out why he told them what he had.

"I want to ensure that they do not act out of worry. If we are back before the deadline, all will be well."

It made sense. Eve put it out of her mind and turned to more pressing issues. "Now that we have an audience at least, how much should we share?"

Genesis gave her an evaluating look. "That would depend on if you have any more clever tricks up your sleeve."

Eve rolled her eyes. "There is no trick, and you know it."

Sephiroth cut them both off before it escalated. "As well-timed as your information was, we cannot rely on another situation arising to benefit us. It would also be wise to keep things to a minimum. There is no need to go into detail about a future that will not come to pass. Current events should be our focus."

Eve and Genesis nodded in agreement, and the three of them sat down to discuss their next steps. It was nearly an hour later that a knock sounded at the door. The three occupants looked up with curiosity when a woman entered the room. She gave them a bow before she addressed Eve.

"My Lady, I have been asked to help prepare you for the feast tonight."

They all looked at each other before they looked back to the woman. Eve took a tentative step closer. "I was not aware there would be a feast."

The woman looked slightly scandalized. "It is only proper. It is not every day that we receive such distinguished foreign dignitaries."

"Oh." Eve understood. It was a bold move on Godo's part. It acknowledged their plea to speak to him and gave the impression of respect. It would also allow him the time to feel them out to see if it would be worth it humor them. The only drawback was public opinion. It could sour quickly if the public believed Godo was only pandering to prevent an invasion of the city. It would be a fine line for the Emperor to walk.

Eve turned back to Sephiroth. "I should be fine. I imagine that they will have something for both of you to change into as well, though I don't imagine it will take as long."

Sephiroth gave her a worried look but didn't get to voice it as the woman spoke again. "The gentlemen's clothes will be here shortly. An assistant will remain if they require aid."

Genesis sneered, but Sephiroth spoke up before he could say anything. "Thank you for your hospitality. We are looking forward to speaking with the Emperor tonight." He paused and glanced over at Eve before he continued. "Will you be bringing Dr. Marx back to this room?"

The woman gave him a slight smile. "Unfortunately, there will likely not be enough time. You have all been given seats at the head table, so it will be no problem for me to guide the Lady to the dining hall once we are finished."

Sephiroth raised a brow. It was barely mid-afternoon. Eve didn't seem shocked, however, so he hoped it was just a woman thing. He gave them a nod, and Eve made a point of grabbing his hand and giving his fingers a quick squeeze before she followed the woman out.

Once they were down the hall a short way, the woman gave her a sly smile. "If this is inappropriate, I beg your pardon."

Eve raised a brow when the woman paused. "I don't let most things bother me."

The woman smiled again. "It is just that, we have so many stories of the Silver Demon, but the latest are the most humanizing. We were told he had taken a lover. I never expected it to be a woman of your standing."