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Light in the Darkness	By : Kaie Category: A through F > Dark Hunter Views: 1484 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: Do not own any of the Dark Hunter characters or the story line created by their author; 2nd main character, Hector, is based loosly off Castlevania Curse of Darkness and is not owned; Marilla is the only character I own. This is not for profit

Chapter List
- 2
- 3
- 4
Here's the third chapter. I know its going a little slow... but hopefully you'll think it picks up in a bit!
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Marilla stood silently as the squires proofed her training room for the meeting with the dark hunters. The room was primarily windows, seeing as how after being stuck I a dark abyss with no light for 100 years and then mostly a protective room for 50 after that, Marilla had no desire to be hidden away from the light again.

She cringed inwardly as she watched the tinting go up and the darkness flood the room. It took everything she had not to go running back into her house, but then the squires would be suspicious and she had no desire to kill them and deal with Acheron’s frustrations after they decided it would be a good idea to pick on her. No, she could just save all of them that headache.
Otto approached her as they finished the final touches.
“Ok, the tinting will disintegrate after about a week, so you wont have to worry about stripping it.”
Marilla raised an eyebrow at him, crossing her arms over her chest. “…that way we wont have to worry about coming in and stripping it.” Mari nodded. Yeah she wasn’t about to strip all this crap off her windows. Acheron had enlisted her room, so it was his job to take care of it. Even though they all knew with a single thought from him or her, and it would be gone. But they couldn’t have the squires be bored… now could they?
“Thanks Otto, its appreciated. How’s Saria in China?” she murmured. Otto had been assigned to her adopted daughter after Valerius was no longer a dark hunter and the council found out Saria had fallen in love with her own squire. The council had been furious, but at Acheron’s insisting they merely transferred him to another dark hunter that lived in Paris. Saria’s main home was in Rome. This way they were still able to see one another even though dating was prohibited.
“She’s good. In Hong Kong right now, there’s been some increased activity and she’s helping one of the dark hutner’s there. Ash has sent for her to return in a few weeks though around Thanksgiving because one of the dark hunters here is being relocated to permanently take her place there.”
Saria had been stationed in Europe and Asia for close to ten years, but now that things were evening out there and at home, Acheron had decided to move her back. In reality he was moving her back for Marilla, but that was not a valid excuse. Either way she was grateful, not that it was particularly difficult to visit her, but she had to be careful now due to the boyfriend.
“What about … you know.”
Otto smirked at the ex-dark hunter, very amused. Marilla was the toughest and strongest he had seen, next to Acheron, which was why she was second in command even though she was no longer an actual dark hunter. Regardless, everyone knew better than to cross her. A new dark hunter with quite the attitude learned the hard way… lets just say he probably would’ve wished he stayed dead when she was done with him. But Otto had to admit the guy had it coming. Marilla held her tongue for a surprising amount of time, but by the time the idiot had pushed one too many buttons, not even Acheron stepped in her path. Needless to say, he kept a wide berth where she was concerned, and always kept his mouth shut.
After that day any doubts the dark hunters had about Mari being able to direct orders were erased. However the poor sap that fell in love with Saria, now Otto actually felt bad for him. It was one thing to get on Mari’s bad side, but to date her daughter was another. If anyone thought a father was bad… a mother with enough power to erase the memory of him even being born was horrifying. He had only cried the first two months of meeting with Mari when she would show up, which was pretty impressive in Otto’s opinion.
“He’s being transferred here to work with Tex in St. Louis.”
Of course he was. Saria had probably talked Acheron into that one, to have him “sway“ the council. Truth be told she couldn’t blame her, and in reality Mari was no fool, she knew exactly where this was leading. She had known it for quite sometime actually, and while she really didn’t want to give her up, it was only fair. Besides, Reese, the squire, was a good man. Not that he really had a choice, if he wanted to live or to live in peace, he would be. Luckily for him and Saria, he had chosen life and a happy one. Truth be told, though she would never tell anyone, she really couldn’t think of anyone better for her child. No, Reese was an honorable man, and spoiled Saria with such love and tenderness, that Mari knew deep down to her core this man would be the only one to return her soul. Unfortunately she would have to barter for it. Artemis had caught wind of the romance and while Acheron had attempted to barter, she denied him. This was Marilla’s barter, and when Saria returned, they would discuss it. Even though she knew what was going to be asked of her, and the thought of providing Artemis with a blood bank for an extended period of time was hardly appealing, this time she would be glad to do it. Yes, for Saria she would do anything.
Even if though the thought of Artemis made ever fiber in her being recoil in disgust, she would do it. Ever since she had returned Artemis had tried desperately to get close to her, or as close as possible. Like always it started out sweetly, but had quickly turned violent and cruel. But thats how Artemis was, much like her father Apollo, when they couldn’t have what they wanted nicely, they took it violently and without care. Saria’s soul was the perfect bait to bring Mari back into her clutches, and this little battle Artemis would win.
Marilla nodded and watched as Otto and his crew packed up.   Without any further words she led the squire out of her home and thanked them all once more as they filed out. Closing the heavy double doors, Mari made her way into her living room where a very petite girl with long blond hair with pink streaks running through it sat on her floor glued to the large screen television that adorned the largest wall of her living room.
“Hi Mari! Is it ok that the Simi watches tv? Akri said I could stay here until he got back from an errand. Simi really wanted to shop and use her plastic card, but Akri told the Simi no… always no. ‘No Simi we don’t have time… no Simi I have to go talk to some people…’ Always too busy in Simi’s opinion.” The little demoness rattled on, her knee high leather boots swaying back and forth as she continued to watch QVC.
Smiling Mari went and sat next to the young demon. It always comforted her to bask in Simi’s innocence and lack of concern for the evils of the world. She knew things were bad and that there were both good and bad people, but for Simi politics weren’t an issue. Either you got rid of your problem or… you got rid of it. She was very soothing to Mari. In truth, the little demon had been the one to reach Mari when no one else did. She was a rare treat among all the crap life dealt out.
Absently Mari ran her fingers through Simi’s hair, watching the way it trailed along her fingertips. Even after 100 years on earth, she still felt so far away from her old life sometimes. Simi sat up and turned to regard her with the most genuine smile on her perfect little face.
“The Simi missed her Mari… Akri said we have to be patient and wait for Mari to feel better. Simi wants to help.” It was impossible to not smile at the childlike qualities the young woman before her possessed. But in actuality, Simi was still a child even though she resembled a woman.
Gently she cupped Simi’s smooth cheek and watched as she nuzzled it lovingly. “Mari feels better just by you asking Simi. Thank you.”
In a flash Mari found herself on her back as Simi threw her body into hers. The little demon squealed in happiness and hugged her ferociously. “That makes Simi happy!”
Her heart warmed as she held the girl in her arms. Without fail, Simi was always someone who could make Mari’s day. Whenever Acheron, Hector and Kyrian had failed and she was in positively the most foul mood anyone could fathom, Simi could wipe it all away with a smile. She could see why she was so precious to Ash, and made it her priority as well to keep her safe always.
After the day she had, this was much needed. All the thoughts of Hector spiraled through her mind all over again. The feel of his energy against her skin, the way his eyes lit up when he held her gaze… the way his lips felt molded so perfectly over hers. The moment had been beyond perfect and everything she had ever dreamed of, minus the fact they were in a cemetery, but that was irrelevant.
Still, she couldn’t smother the voice in her head that constantly screamed at her how unworthy and disgusting she was. It was still taking time for that voice to cease, but it persisted still. Acheron was of no concern. He was her best friend and would never judge her. The fear had been there in the beginning, but after hiding from him for a month upon her return to Olympus, he broke through her barriers and refused to be cast aside anymore. Not that she didn’t try, because she did. Acheron wouldn’t have it though. The tears in his eyes that day had been all that she needed.   Like he tested her for so many years, she then tested him, and just like her, he never failed.
“Mari please…” he had whispered gaining her attention as she screamed for him to go, stopping her tirade. When she turned to look upon him, she couldn’t see the looks of disgust or hatred that she tricked herself into believing would be there. No, all she witnessed was the tears that built up in his swirling silver eyes and the love that lay unshielded in their depths. She could feel his pain at her rejection and it soothed and comforted her fears.
She was in his arms in seconds and without pause he wrapped her in his embrace, crushing her body against the solid muscle of his. They had stayed that way for hours, until she drifted to the first restful sleep since returning from the Underworld. Acheron held her all night, and when she woke in the morning she found him curled behind her, still tangled in his arms.
He never faltered where she was concerned and she always maintained the same resolve for him. In heart mind she knew that Hector would be the same. He would not shun her, but the fear was consuming and kept her at bay. It had also kept her from her friends and once family, all except Saria, for it was her daughter she owed the most. Luckily, Saria had been just as forgiving as Acheron said she was, and met her without a single trace of hostility. It was as though she hadn’t been gone, and the feel of her sweet girl’s arms wrapping around her felt like bliss. But the others were harder. She was no fool, she had followed Kyrian, Zarek, and just recently, Julian very closely. All of them were mortal or God‘s now, and had families. Hell… even Valerius had one. But where did she belong now in their lives? Surely they had no use for her anymore… and why would they want her?
Sooner or later she would run into them and then she would have to face their questions and most likely their disappointment that she had stayed away for so long. For now, she would wait for that day, not seek it out. Although, she had a feeling it was coming sooner than expected. Acheron attempted to do things at her pace, but when it didn’t match his, then hers was always forgotten.
But that was a concern for another point in time. Right now she was starving and clearly she had several mouths to feed considering Simi was free and now gnawing on a piece of beef jerky.
“Hungry Sim?” the question didn’t even leave her lips before the demon was on her feet and dragging Mari to the kitchen.
Clearly she was.
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Hector stood on his balcony watching the evening sun set. Mari and he had returned a few hours ago, but she had been with Otto and a few other squires to oversee the preparation of her training room. To say he was disappointed was an understatement. He had been hoping to talk to her about the cemetery incident, but she fled the room in record time when Otto walked in.
Deciding it was best to stay out of her way and let her settle, he stayed in his room. How could he have been so foolish? In the past 80 years she had been back on earth they barely spoke to each other, shared fleeting touches and when they were assigned to something it was done as rapidly as possible. Being apart from her felt like agony and being close to her was the same. Hector was no fool, he knew what she did for him and he had known for sometime she was in love with him, but like an idiot he talked himself into not being worthy…
Gripping the banister he felt it crack under his fingers. What had he been thinking? That was easy… what he always thought. That he was not worthy of her, that eventually he would hurt her in some horrific way that she would never forgive him. Instead what happened? He turned her away when he was convinced his mother was reincarnated and in a desperate attempt to right a wrong that happened so long ago, he got himself killed and her sold to servitude for his soul. Yes, his friendship was so much better.

It was amazing she still wanted to be around him. But he knew better. She still loved him just the same, if not more, than she did before his death. While he was very convinced he was unworthy of her, this time he didn’t give a shit. No, this time he was going to do everything possible to right the wrongs that had been done.
“You’re gonna break that.” Ash said, leaning against the balcony doors behind Hector.
Looking down he saw the wood had splintered beneath his hands and several small splinters had embedded themselves into his skin. With a thought it was repaired and Hector turned to face Acheron.
“What’s up?”
Ash cocked a brow. “Seriously? ‘What‘s up?’ That is by far the most pitiful greeting I‘ve heard from you yet. Let me answer for you… Oh gee Hector nothing much! What‘s up with you Bud…”
Hector pinned Ash with his coldest glare, and Acheron matched it perfectly. Quirking a brow up, he merely continued staring at his companion. He was such a shitty liar.
“Now… why don’t you tell me what’s really going on.”
“Nothing…. Nothing. What did you find out today?”
Sighing Acheron decided to let the conversation take a different direction for a moment. Best to get the bad and worse news out of the way. Just once it‘d be nice to have good news… or semi good news… or even decent news. That would be perfect, but it just wasn‘t in the cards. “Well… found out its not the daimons. They are involved, however I don’t think they are how we think they would be. Other than that, I’m not quite sure of their role or why the energy is being gathered, but rumor has it it’s the same people in each spot.”
Hector nodded. Yes it was.
“Mari and I scouted three cemeteries before we came back here. They all had the same energy signature. It was stronger this time, more fresh. Its without a doubt elemental. I’m just not sure what kind. But its dark Ash. Very dark.”
He watched the Atlantean curse. No one liked dealing with elementals, especially the gods, not that Acheron had anything to worry about. But protecting people would prove that much more difficult.
Elementals were basic sorcerers and witches. Some held dark power and some held light. The way it was used was dependent upon the person. Others were strong enough to control the actual elements, but only the strongest of priests and priestesses could do that. Long ago most elemental warriors and sorcerers had been destroyed in hunts. Most of it truthfully had been led by various God’s out of fear of their superiors conquering them once again. But the earth had been silent for sometime from the Lord’s and Lady’s of the Elements and the power of his people had almost been wiped clean. Those that continued to exist were deeply integrated into society to survive. Anyone involved in deep elemental magic laid low on the radar, they didn’t want to deal with the God’s fully exterminating them. Hector had been lucky… or had he? Artemis added him to her little army without fully understanding what he was. When she found out, it was too late, but he was permanently put on her shit list. Fear did horrible things to a person.
“Well, I’ll have to rethink my approach. Now what else is going on?” Acheron spoke, dragging him from old memories and into the present once more.
Hector turned from him once more, watching the sky streak with pink and orange as the light began to dim from sight. He hated sharing anything about Mari with the other man. Mari and Acheron were as close as two people could be without being lovers, and Hector both loved and hated it. Acheron had been an amazing friend to him, and he would always be loyal, but that didn’t stop his jealousy. A part of him hated Acheron for what he shared with her, but deep down it was just jealousy. Could she ever trust in him or go to him the way she did with Ash?
How could there be room for him in her heart when Acheron took up so much of it.
“I should’ve stopped this years ago. I shouldn’t have been so stupid and should have just told her I loved her.”
“Should’s wont change things now…”
“I’m aware Acheron.”
Ash moved forward, he went to touch Hector’s shoulder but instantly felt his power surge. He could feel the anger coming from the normally silent man. Hector was very introverted with his feelings and when he actually projected them it was due to him no longer being able to hold it in.
“Hector… she still loves you… you just have to be patient.”
“Shut up Acheron. I’m sick of you giving me advice about her. Sick of you telling me what to expect. You aren’t the only one close to her.” he ground out, feeling the darkness circle in him.

Everything was fine when they would talk or work together, but when it came to Mari, they butted heads constantly. Acheron knew her perhaps better than she knew herself, and Hector hated it. She was always loyal to him, in almost everything even when she didn’t agree, and Hector hated Ash for it. Whatever he needed of her, she was there… always!
Acheron stayed silent. He really couldn’t blame Hector for being jealous and disliking him when it came to Mari. Ash knew love when he saw it, and Hector adored his friend in a way he could only dream of looking at a woman. He had a weak moment, like they all did, but the love he felt only grew stronger as the days went on. It only took him 100 years to stabilize. It should have taken far more, but his determination and dedication was fueled on for Mari. Every time he wanted to give up, each struggle he had, he would push through. When Ash said he could come to earth, Hector did everything he could to help. He stepped into Mari’s shoes in every way and didn’t complain. He did it all for her, and Ash knew it.
He felt the anger dissipate and stayed silent as Hector collected himself.
“I’m sorry Ash… its just hard.”
He nodded knowingly. He understood fully. Acheron himself had been jealous of Hector for a long time, until he realized that Mari’s heart was fully capable of loving more than one person. Shit, she had been just as loyal and caring toward Kyrian and Zarek. He almost had to subdue her from going after Valerius for crucifying Kyrian. Luckily, Athena locked her in Olympus for a month until she cooled off. Then of course there was the Priapus incident and the decimation of his temple. And lets not forget the various beatings and negotiations she took for Zarek. But it was Hector that gave that spark to her, and even while Acheron knew she wasn’t meant for him as a lover, she had been the only woman to not look at him like an object and there was that small piece of him that wanted her as more. But when Hector was made, Athena had come to him and asked if Mari could train him. Athena never asked for anything, she didn’t like the Dark Hunters, but she indulged her adopted child and allowed her many freedoms and never stood in her way where Acheron or his dark hunters were concerned. When Mari returned from Hector’s training, he knew instantly why Athena made the request. He had feared being replaced and cast aside, but as soon as he realized that she was loyal to a fault the jealousy was gone. Of course Mari telling him to stop being a ’dumbass’ helped also.
But Hector would have to realize it for himself. No amount of consoling him would help right now, not until he was ready to believe it and move forward.
Right now though, this was a pointless talk that would only end in both men becoming frustrated and angry with one another. That wasn’t a headache anyone needed and Ash knew it.
“Lets go in. Dinner’s almost ready and if we’re not there Simi will demolish it in record speed.” he said, patting the still silent man’s shoulder. Hector turned to regard him, his eyes haunted and pained. Without a word he offered a small smile, nodded and left the balcony to go to the dining room.
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The young demon pranced around between the kitchen and dining room to place the trays of food on the table. It looked like she was feeding an army with how much food there was, but with Simi, you had to have that much.
“It’s all done Mari… oh Simi did a good job and it looks so pretty.” she said, hands on her hips staring longingly at the table. Mari walked in, bringing the bottle of wine and noticed that all the plates were piled around Simi’s designated spot. How considerate of her.
“You do know you have to share the food right Sim?”
A look of displeasure crossed her face and she began to protest. “Yes Simi, you have to share.” Ash said, taking his demon daughter’s arm and walking her to her place. She pouted as much as possible, but her Akri was unmoved.
Ash took the bottle from Mari and moved toward the table. Turning she headed back to the kitchen, hearing the sounds of utensil’s scraping and plates moving as Simi loaded her plate full and started on a second following her. ‘Just like old times,’ she thought, her smile fading as she stepped into her spacious kitchen.
Hector stood silent, pulling the wine glasses down with his back to her. He was more striking now in the low light of her kitchen. His shoulder length silver hair shone in the dim glow and moved serenely with every move he made. His clothes hugged the muscles of his body and all Mari could do was watch how they rippled powerfully in the grace of his movements. The tingle on her lips returned, reminding her of the moment they had shared.
Their first moment. It had been incredible and she ached for more, but fear was a terrible monster than new her all too well. Carefully she made her way to him to help. Just the nearness of him was overwhelming and her senses were filled with him.
He felt her approach from behind, and turned cautiously to find her taking a few blocks of cheese from her large refrigerator. It had been so long since she actually stayed close enough for him to really watch. Normally she would withdraw as soon as she realized he was close or paying attention to her movements, but now she merely went about simple tasks and allowed his presence. He almost wish she didn’t right now.
She had changed clothes once they returned and now she wore a simple black tank that only emphasized the fullness of her breasts and the flare of her shapely hips. Her long crimson heavy skirt she wore hid every inch of her strong legs, but flowed over her body gracefully, accenting her beauty in the most natural of ways. Her body was something to behold and he delighted in gazing upon her curves that were plush and soft, but hard and strong in battle. But It was her face that held him in thrall. The way her long blond hair would whirl around her, taking on a personality of its own and the way her deep blue eyes showed every ounce of emotion she was feeling. Her smooth cheeks and her full lips begged to be touched and caressed, and every time he would gaze upon her he could feel his hands aching to bend to her silent command.
Tentatively he reached forward and let the back of his knuckles graze over the silky skin of her cheek. He was so close he could practically feel her body mold to his, but they still didn’t touch. Terrified she would pull away he waited, but then she brought her steady doe eyed gaze to his. Her eyes were tender and brave, but there was fear laced through them, hidden amongst the first sight of hope he had witnessed from her after all this time.
She maintained his gaze as she felt her body press into the counter and his settle against hers. His palm was cool on her warm skin as his fingertips trailed along her face. It felt like a dream as he looked into her, laying her bare before him. She trembled as she felt his arm slide around her waist to hold her more firmly to him. Her head swam with what was happening as she felt his lips ghost over her forehead, tenderly kissing a path along her face. His scent invaded her as his cool cheek nuzzled against hers, his breath falling warmly on her neck.
She ached to be closer to him and tentatively let her hands rest against his chest. His aura was cool and soothing, but his body was warm against hers. She could feel the tears coming as she grasped for something to say. But there were no words that could tell him what she was feeling. The happiness at his closeness and the terror at him pulling away from her out of shame.
But she didn’t need those words because Hector could feel every emotion stirring inside her and ever so sweetly he pressed his lips to hers once more hoping it wouldn‘t startle her. His mouth molded to hers as he felt her warmth melt into him. He ached to taste her, but he was desperate to show that he could wait and be patient for her trust.
She could feel the longing in his touch as his lips moved over hers gently and his hand was buried in her long silken strands. His whole body was taught with control, yielding to the unspoken need her body and mind knew. The sweetness of the man who held her was consuming and raw as she felt all those memories from a time long passed surge through her mind. A calming sensation settled around her and she sighed content for the first time since returning from the Underworld as he rested his forehead to hers and held her close. His tenderness touched her deeply and the love she felt for him only solidified more.
“I know you need time Mari. And I’ll wait… for as long as you ask it.” he whispered, his breath ghosting across her lips.
She was beautiful in the moonlight as its silver light shone through the windows of her expansive kitchen. The way it caught her pale hair and held her deep blue depths transfixed like a calm sea, he wanted to live in this moment and never leave it. A slight smile curved her lips and tentatively she pressed hers to his once more in silent gratitude.
“Could you two stop that? Marilla where is Acheron.” pulling away from Hector Mari saw the tall red headed female clothed in a white robe standing in her kitchen.
She heard Hector’s growl rip from his throat before he could contain it and felt his energy shift suddenly, the entire room becoming cool and haunted. Marilla felt his arms envelope her body and held her close, protecting her from the other presence in the room.
Marilla was instantly angry as she gazed upon the beautiful woman who was her aunt. She gazed cooly at Artemis’ beauty in the moonlight that streamed through her large patio windows, catching the firey red of her hair and illuminating her voluptuous body that would set any man’s blood to fire. It had been about a year since she last saw her, and still it was too soon.
“What do you want Artemis… whatever it is hurry up and tell me so you can leave all the sooner.”
“How rude dear niece. I’ve gone to offer you a home heated present.”
“Warming… a home warming present, Artemis. I’ve been here already for ten years, you’re a bit late.”
She waved her off, completely disregarding Hector all together. She never acknowledged him, which was probably a smart survival tactic on her part. Unlike Acheron and herself, Hector cared nothing for the Goddess and could care less if the world ripped itself apart at her death. The only thing that kept her from death was Marilla’s wish that she live.
“What do you want Artemis?” Mari ground out, becoming far too annoyed with the Goddess to tolerate much more.
She ignored her and drifted out of the kitchen. Marilla and Hector followed silently, watching her glide past the dining room that was now empty, to stand in her spacious living room. Acheron was staring into the fireplace as the flames danced wildly. Of course she would want to see him.
Gasping she stared at his shocking hair color, and Mari saw the faintest hint of a smile come over him.
“What have you done?” she shrieked, attempting to change it to blond, but it stayed the same.
“You have no pull over me here Artemis.” Acheron whispered, turning to gaze at her with the fire light glowing brightly behind him. His eyes shone menacingly in the Goddess’ presence and Mari felt her discomfort. She was in the room with very powerful individuals, and they all hated her.
She barely noticed. Turning her attention from Acheron back to her, Mari stood still as she let her fingertips trail her face, her green eyes bright and vivid as she gazed upon her. It had been a long time since Artemis had been so close to her, and sometimes she was sure she could see love in those eyes. Truthfully that’s what hurt her most. Artemis loved, but on her own terms and for her own gain. Something always had to benefit her for there to be love given. The Goddess didn’t bestow care or thought for someone unless they had something to offer.
“You are still so beautiful Mari… just like always.”
Shoving her hands away she scoffed at her. “Yes aunt, just like always. Regardless of 100 years of torment and 200 more years lost to relearning everything about myself and another 100 on earth attempting to regain my oldlife. But how thoughtful of you to come here and tell me how pretty I am. Now that all my wounds are healed, I can function once more. Whatever would I do without you!” she screamed, the fire spilling out momentarily onto the tiled floor before it and forcing Acheron to move away quickly. Mari’s eyes burned with hatred for her aunt.
“Don’t be so prissy Marilla. I’m here to see you. After all you refused to come to me after you returned, and you never acknowledge me…”
“You mean don’t be so pissy… Artie.” Acheron corrected, rolling his eyes.
“Whatever.”
“Honestly Artemis, why do you think I’d want to see you? You’re the reason I went to the Underworld. You’re the last I wanted to see, but it never seems to stop you.”
“You went of your own choice. It was his stupidity.” she said, pointing at Hector. Acheron stilled Hector’s movement with his hand on his shoulder and Marilla felt her anger spike.
“Stop talking Artemis and get out of my home.” she said, as calmly as possible.
“Are you kicking me in niece?”
Mari snapped at that. “OUT! Artemis… I’m kicking you out! Amazing that in almost 400 years you still cant get things right, and yes I am. Get out. I have no wish to see you.”
The look on her face changed instantly as Mari began yelling at her. She couldn’t stand to be treated disrespectfully and as Marilla seethed, she watched the kindness leave her eyes and all that was left was malice.
“Don’t test me Marilla…”

“I am not scared of you Artemis. You hold no power over me. But I will not stand in my own home while you blame so many others for your own stupidity. You have lost me for you cruelty and you have lost Acheron through your betrayal. All of us have been lost due to your actions! There is no one to blame but yourself. I will not stand here and listen to you say that Hector’s death was his fault when you tricked him to save your own ass. Get the hell out of my home Artemis. You are nothing but a cruel hateful bitch who deserves nothing from anyone in the room!”
Marilla felt every inch of her body on fire with her rage. She felt Artemis’ anger war with her own. She could sense Hector and Acheron behind her, but they made no move for either one of them. They were merely waiting. They didn’t have long to wait, Artemis never disappointed when she was angry or pissed.
“Well niece… I may be a bitch. But at least I’m not a whore.” she whispered, smiling knowingly as the word hit home and Marilla felt her anger dissipate to be replaced by shame.
Her body was frozen as the word hit home. Pain lanced through her chest, and she could feel every set of eyes in the room on her. The scrutiny was unbearable and unable to stand it she fled. She heard every word as she stormed from the room and ran up her staircase. All she wanted was to escape the words her aunt launched at her without feeling or remorse. But more than that she wanted to escape herself.
Shame was still at the front of her mind and she loathed her very existence for it. To be brought to her knees so easily, a warrior and a Goddess, she almost preferred the thought of death than living with the shame of what she endured. How could she look at Hector… and how could he want her when deep down she couldn’t want herself?
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All done! that was about the hardest chapter to write so far! Hope you all enjoyed, please R&R! Thanks!!
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Light in the Darkness