Book 2: Seven Demon's Hearts

Episode 49: Origins (iii)

Episode 49: O r i g i n s ( i i i )

"What should we do now." Mrs. Kich nervously chewed on her nails as she anxiously rocked in her chair around the dining table. The family leaders have gathered around it, finally having time to discuss their next steps.

"This can either go very well or very bad." Mr. Ambrose spoke up. "For starters, we have to ensure that the demons do not come back to attack. Speaking with Mr. V earlier proved to be difficult, but if we can manage to have him agree to somethings again then we'll ensure our safety for the time being."

"For the time being?" Mr. Vorshwick raised a curious brow. "Don't we just have to worry about protecting against the demons?"

"Yes, but as we are aware, Tariff broke the coven-joint agreement. This now means that that we do not have Markis and he is probably endlessly exploiting the boy's skills to create more of that weapon. If he takes it all to himself then we'll be helpless against any other sudden attacks—which then causes a clear issue."

"We have to go and reason with them. We at least need to share the weapons." Damien added on. "Otherwise, we'll have even greater casualties. Besides, he has taken the weapon before I even got to speak with Markis about the details of creating it. Not only that, but the coven blacksmiths that left with Markis also haven't returned."

"So, Tariff is holding them all hostage!" Mrs. Crourem gasped.

"Most likely. But we know that Tariff was never a reasonable man. Even to his own coven, he treats them as if they're subordinates—that's if they're not immediate family or the chosen men close to him. He's a merciless man who'll stand at nothing to get to what he wants. In fact, we're lucky he's actually on our side. Otherwise, we'd have a great enemy to deal with."

"But my issue with that man is how vulgar he is. He treats the humans unfairly and he speaks of demons without having an open mind when they too may have values and morals!" Mrs. Lelouch spoke up. "Tariff has never been someone I trusted in. I will never be able to come to terms with a man who has experienced living among all types of races and yet still does not respect the value of all life."

"Well, what do you think?" Damien suddenly brought the discussion over to V who was not actively joining them at the table but rather leaning against the wall a few feet away. His wounds were healing up quite quicker than Linda had expected, but given his nature, it probably wasn't that profound of a feature.

"I disagree." He spoke up with a frown.

"On what specifically?" Mrs. Lelouch lifted a brow.

"About talking with that man. I've experienced his kind many times before. The only thing I could sense from him when he attacked my brother and me was the intent to kill. It felt innate and, trust me, that's something you can't change. He won't be open to your dumb reasoning, so all of this stupid chattering is truly meaningless."

"Don't we at least still have to try." Mrs. Ambrose spoke up with hope, placing on a shaky smile. "I mean, Tariff and my husband were once on good terms and led their covens together in prosperity. We even reached a point where the coven members had very good relationships with each other. If he was able to show that kind of willingness before, then he should be open to at least hear us out--at least for good time's sake."

"I said it's plain stupid." V rudely dismissed her opinion, receiving a glare from Damien. "What you all need to focus on is a plan on how you can kill him, and then I'll handle getting my brother back!"

"For once, I actually agree with him." Mrs. Lelouch frowned, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Honey, but shouldn't we at least try?" Mr. Lelouch argued with a hopeful smile. "You teach us to always give people a second chance. That misunderstandings are the root of all evil, and fixing them is what can heal bonds. Perhaps this is all a misunderstanding too?"