{The Rebellion}

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox stumbled to a stop near Grim and the other two, gasping for air. He spun to search out any shadows that might have chased after him, but found there were none. He pressed a hand to his chest, searching, hoping Jade wasn't far behind him. Yet as the guards started to complain about the witch's lacking presence, he realized that she wasn't following. John had gotten what he wanted. The chance to exact revenge against his daughter. He squeezed his eyes closed, "No. Andras won't be killing anyone. Except perhaps me." he gasped out, shaking his head. He bit his lip and looked up as Grim addressed him, "I don't have the address, but I think I have an idea of where it is. Forgive me if I don't give details until we can be sure we're safe." he said, nodding toward the older man. He stretched himself, working out the adrenaline that had built up in his system, and started moving again. "We'll have to be careful so no one spots us." he sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. He kept glancing back to where he and Jade had last seen each other, hoping to see her ginger hair emerge from the trees. He took this time to wheedle information out of his mind that he could remember of his father, hoping he'd have some sort of answer for how they were to go after John before he confronted Andras.

 

[QueenofDorks]

"Perhaps," Grim agreed, although smiling thinly. "But you can't do much against such creatures, lad. There wasn't much you could do. Jade, however, can handle herself. You should know that by now." He remarked, the man keeping his hand poised on the lighter. The flame flickered as he moved rapidly to take a glimpse in their surroundings, assuring that no shadows had followed the man. The two men were silent, their thoughts scalding their mind and the fear numbing them. Refusing to speak. The old man peered at the sky, watching the helicopter as it hovered in the crisp air. "We need to move fast. Keep quiet and together." He instructed sharply to the guards, his feet easing over fallen branches as he hiked forward.


--


John had disappeared, the shadows fading with him. They had dissipated the minute the officers had drawn near. This is what he had planned. He cornered her, pinned her so the police could seek her out. So she'd wind up in the same prison as he. And she had allowed it, played into it. The spotlight found her, loud shouts echoing in her ears. Guns were drawn, raised to every vital part of her. She stood still, watching with bleary eyes as they drew in closer. "Turn around and get on your knees! Keep your hands in the air and do not move!" One shouted, an officer who she couldn't quite make out, considering the blaring light that wavered down upon her. He moved forward, gun still drawn, one hand moving to remove handcuffs from his belt. Slowly, she complied. She shifted around, dropping to her knees without a protest. Her hands were yanked backwards, cuffed tightly. The metal dug into her skin, constricting any movement within her limbs. "You have the right to remain silent." The officer began, spilling into the speech they were ordered to give with every arrest. A surprise that still applied to supernaturals. She was hauled up onto her bare feet, dragged forward and through the trees where the police awaited, on edge. Antsy and prepared if she even dared to utter a spell from her mouth.

 

[QueenofDorks]

(Bump... just as a reminder! c: )

 

[QueenofDorks]

{The Aftermath}



​

Seven months had passed since the relocation of the formal rebellion, and rebel base -- an actual literal military base that, as time passed, was becoming a bit more lively with furniture and food, more supplies as it was urged in by known associates and allies that had been contacted. It was a relief to many, most having to scrape by with what little they had, or what little most had given up to those that were in dire need of such things. Nonetheless others worked together, however not without minuscule fights and spurs of arguments, but in the end they were fighting for the same cause; whether that be for the supernaturals, their families, their lives, et cetera. And as the months eased in, lulling on by, it grew to be easier. That's all that mattered to most, the simplicity of semi-normal living.


The previous base had been found, discovered not long after Jade had been arrested -- a publicly announced special on TV that had been aired, police claiming they had caught the heretical leader of the rebellion, charging her with various claims. Still a harsh wound embedded to many, specifically Andras. The demon still felt torn up about it, a gnawing sadness that grew reluctantly upon him as the days drawled on. Even now, as the reported on the radio station droned on how the woman will be charged tomorrow in the later afternoon with either a life in prison or an execution. It was obvious what would ensue, and that dampened his spirits even more. His fingers twisted the dial and the radio bubbled away to a static hiss, then went out.


Before the base was taken over by investigators and taped off by police, most rebels volunteered for a risk mission. One involving sneaking in and gathering personal things that could not be forgotten (heirlooms, family photos, etc.), supplies that were needed, and clothes and blankets as the nipping winter eased its way into the environment of the town. Which reminded him; heat. He had to get the heater fixed. One hand extended into a single drawer of his desk, withdrawing out a notepad and pen, jotting down the reminder with agile handwriting. His hand moved swiftly across the small amount of paper then set it aside, out in the open and visible for him to see at all times. Then he clambered from his seat, feet striding across wooden floor, exiting his shared bedroom to seek out Trixie.


Since having to pin himself as the leader for the meantime, Andras had come to heavily rely upon Trixie. Without Jade he had no one to confide in, no one to sort out matters and complaints in their little heretical organization... until it dawned upon him that he did have somebody. Slowly, but albeit surely, he came around to discuss such matters with the nephlim, sometimes matters that were even beyond that -- personal and quite intimate on a spectrum for the demon. Though it may have only been viewed as little things from Trixie, it was a highly big matter for him -- to actually be opening up on his past. This contributed further to their semi-exclusive relationship, something that he didn't quite foresee... but he was quite content with at the moment nonetheless.


As his feet ambled down the hallway, he heard the buzzing commotion of conversation, of hushed whispers of gossip. The minute he got closer the more he could see of the crowding supernaturals around the double doors that were located in the entryway of the base. Andras pushed them aside, fighting to get into the middle, bumping past even Trixie. Amongst them, in the middle of the formulating crowds, was Jade. Body thin, fiery hair matted, and wounds that were never properly clean, open, mingling with an infection. One would think her unrecognizable but he knew it was her. The brooding look within her eyes told him all, a silent response to what had happened that would remained hidden, within inside herself and the memories she carried.


(Let me know if I need to add a bit more detail!)

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Trixie had just finished checking on everyone and making sure things were going alright, having responded to a small scuffle within the base that needed attention. She spotted the crowd, and went to investigate when she bumped into Andras, who seemed more focused on what was going on. "And-" she started to say, but he pushed passed and didn't seem to notice her. She knitted her brows, curious, and followed after him, using the small wake of his body moving through the crowd to keep up with him. She gasped softly, a hand going to her lips when she saw who it was that stood there. The thin, nearly unrecognizable Jade. "Jade!" she said, nearly breathless, and stepped forward quickly. "You escaped... how... well, never mind how. What matters is you're back and you're alive." she said gently, smiling. She turned, "Someone get her some food, others spare a blanket. And maybe warm up a bath." she said in her newly acquired voice of authority. She slid an arm gently around Jade's shoulders, "Come along. Let's go get you cleaned up and a hot meal." she continued, her voice softer, and smoother. She gently urged Jade to follow her direction, further into the base. "Andras, there was a fight among a few of the wolves. I'll get Jade cleaned up." she said gently, smiling at him.


Maddox was out behind the large military base, a stack of wood beside him and an axe in his hands. He wasn't exactly loved by any here at the base, but it was certainly safer than trying to return to his family. All across the news his name was being slandered as a supernatural sympathetic, and his father had already publicly disowned him to his mother's protesting tears. His lips were pursed in concentration, keeping his focus solely on the task he was assigned. Chopping wood for the kitchen, and small pit fires that they were using for warmth until Andras could get the heater fixed. It was the will of the majority that Maddox didn't have much to do with guarding the place, or anything of importance. He was the blame for Jade's capture, and everyone made sure he knew it. Except for Trixie, and Andras. Yeah, Andras had been angry, but he, at least, seemed to understand that Jade played the game just like he had.


((Does Andras know that Maddox carries the soul of Jade's late husband? I don't recall))

 

[QueenofDorks]

[Andras was never technically told buuuuuut if you wanted to, that could have been discussed between him and Maddox during the time she had been gone. Or we can leave it as it is and Andras stays in the unknown just for the sole sake of drama~ Your choice]


The slightest touch, Trixie's arm sliding across her shoulder, startled Jade. The witch flinched and curled her arms tighter around herself as if for assurance, the boring gaze broken away from Andras. The crowd had hushed into silence at both Trixie and Andras's appearances. It was evident enough that things had been well handled through her long absence, the two having been a force against their foes and throughout the news coverage that had been pinned upon them -- the rebellion, Jade herself, and even Maddox whom had caught himself up amongst the drama, labeled as a supernatural sympathizer and became brutally disowned by his father. There was much to be discussed and caught up on. But that was to wait. Trixie was urging her to follow her, the crowd was dispersing to follow the given orders. Andras, however, was the only one that didn't move amongst the chaos. He stared bleakly at the malnourished woman, the once strong woman who had been reduced to this. "We'll talk later --" Jade's quiet voice had cut through his thoughts, shaking him free.


The demon reluctantly turned, acknowledging that there was more to focus on in the mean time. He maneuvered past the lingering rebels and headed for the hall, the nearest that would bring him outside so he can breathe in the fresh air and collect himself briefly.


Regardless of his behavior, odd and differing from the snarky demon she know and adored, Jade continued to limp beside Trixie with minimal support, thankful for her aiding help.


Outside, the grass crunched heavily underneath the demon's footsteps as he stumbled into the widely spread backyard -- all protected by the high fences that surrounded it, repaired with what little they had. Another barrier surrounded the area, including the base, to yield away any more sneaking shadows or wandering government personal. He breathed in, holding the fresh air within his chest, then exhaled. The slice of an axe sliding through the air made him focus, adjust back into reality, and turned. Golden eyes addressed the form of the once proudly known politician son, now reduced as more of a disgrace and nothing more. Reluctantly he approached, trying to wrap around the right words to announce the unexpected news to him. "Maddox," he finally addressed, one hand gesturing towards the military base that loomed behind them, "Jade has returned."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

[[Totally save it for the sole sake of drama xD That will be far more entertaining]]


Trixie smiled sympathetically when Jade flinched away from her for a mere moment, letting out a slow breath. She was worried for the woman, as well as for Andras, who seemed dumbstruck with Jade's reappearance. Then again, from the snipits she had learned about the demon over the months in Jade's absence, it wasn't surprising how he reacted. Part of her wanted to go to him and make sure he was alright, but she had learned he needed his space. She had become somewhat protective over the demon, after the initial reaction he had had when he became leader of this rebellion. She glanced at his retreating back as she walked with Jade, but figured if he wanted to talk to her, he knew where she'd be. Her eyes drifted back to Jade, "It's been insane with you gone. But Andras has done well." she said with a small smile. "Everyone here has been following the news closely about you. I'm glad you're back relatively safe." she added, keeping her curiosity at bay over what the witch had been through. She lead the copper haired woman to a large room that held what the members who had risked a return to the old base could bring back that belonged to Jade, stacks of books and grimoires, binders of important papers. Though for a bed, it was just a mattress, but it was dressed with her old sheets from the previous base. "This was an old officer's room. There's a bathroom attached." Trixie explained, leading her past all the objects and into a fairly bare bathroom where another woman was filling the bath, the mirror already fogging from the steam that was rising. "Can I get you anything, Jade?" Trixie asked sincerely.


Maddox was silently focused, clad in no more than a pair of ripped jeans and a plain, tattered tee, the axe held tight in a nearly white knuckled grip. He paused as the blade struck clean through a log when he heard Andras address him. The axe was released, buried in the stump he used as a base for the logs, and he straightened, turning to address the demon. His chest heaved slightly, evidence of heavy work, sweat layering his body and darkening small areas of the shirt where it touched his skin. His dark eyes seemed unfocused, as they had been since he had been disowned, having watched the spectacle on live television. He looked over Andras, missing the keys that would have told him something had happened, and it took several moments for the spoken words to seem to register on the man's mind. Jade has returned. Realization registered in his eyes, but he was silent, unsure of how to act or respond. It had been many long months, each day weighing on Maddox. The idea of Jade's death being his own fault, the hate he saw in many of the supernatural's eyes when they looked at him. It seemed like forever to Maddox before he finally was able to react, but in reality it was only mere seconds. Life seemed to flood back into the dark haired man and he swallowed thickly, "Wh-" he started, coughing slightly to clear his throat from weeks of disuse. "Where is she? Is she okay?" he managed, concern and worry clear in his tone. "Can I..." he started to ask if he could see her, but something seemed to pass through his mind. A mind that was nearly broken. He shook his head, "Never mind. She might not even want to see me..." he mumbled, disheartened. His eyes fell to the ground, and eventually his knees seemed to buckle and he found himself sitting on the ground, knees to his chest. "Thank god she's back..." he whispered, sighing as his head fell against his knees and his face became hidden.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The nephlim's indication of words seemed to fade and buzz into background noise. Jade didn't acknowledge them -- a blank slate of emotions. She merely stared bleakly at her passing surroundings, the flittering faces they passed that were consumed with concern for their leader. The tiled flooring of the hall were cold against her bare feet as she ambled even further down the halls, the only feeling she registered. At least, until she was edged into a room that was claimed to be her's. But it wasn't. It never would be, as she took in what little was savaged. All of her dresses, the portrait she possessed of her husband and her, everything she had collected from her past... gone. Destroyed or forgotten behind. Feelings sprouted in her chest, clawed to be revealed; to breakdown. But she strained to compose herself, to not reveal them. Finally, she addressed Trixie's words with a tilted glance and a ghost of a smile. "I can handle myself from here. Thank you, Trixie." She meekly responded, her fingers curling around the dirtied dress that flimsily clung to her body. The same one she had last been seen in. The same one she had worn to her date with Maddox. The dawning thought made her shed the fabric even faster, discarding the contents of the dress to the bathroom floor. The woman drew away from the tub to let the witch dip herself in, she sliding comfortably into the simmering water -- warm, clean water that she hadn't experienced in months. She reveled in it, and sunk further down, eyes fluttering shut -- a sign that indicted that not much would be talked about in her presence.


Andras blearily watched as Maddox reacted. First, it was a pause, and then he finally adjusted to the news. It was like as if a light bulb had flickered back on, the life returned to his face, to his being. The demon swallowed thickly at politician boy's stumbling words and he balanced a shrug, feeble and unknown. "She's inside. She... shit, she looks like crap man. She's thin, there's wounds that haven't even properly healed. She doesn't look like herself --" he rambled excessively, brows knitting together with concern and distraught. Her appearance had startled him, shaking him to his very core. His hands quickly raised and he sweeper them over his hair, eyes squeezed shut. "Fuck," he exhaled the singular word, then registered Maddox's slumped and sitting form. He blinked, then awkwardly realized what half of a forming relationship the witch and the human had begun right before her disappearance. His hands slipped back down to his side, into his pockets, and he tried to adjust his out of character behavior. "I'm not Jade. I don't know what she's thinking right now. Trixie took her to get cleaned up. I don't know if she'll want to see you or not, Dox. It's something you'll have to address on your own I'm afraid... I just wanted to let you be aware of her appearance and that she's alive and safe now. For the time being."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Trixie gave Jade a small smile, nodding her head, "Alright, but I'll stick around just outside in case. Call if you need anything, alright?" she said gently, her voice warm. She released Jade, and disappeared from the room, finding a chair to sit in case Jade called out. There were medical supplies sitting on the desk in the bedroom portion, and the nephilim busied herself with making sure nothing had been forgotten. After a while, she bit her lip, thinking, and left the room. She sent another woman in her place to help Jade if she called for it, and went to search out Andras. She needed to make sure he was okay as well. She could tell Jade's appearance had shaken him, and that somewhat worried her.


Maddox lifted his head and looked up at Andras, seeing the distraught he seemed to be feeling nearly mirrored in the demon, with only minor differences. He sighed softly, pushing himself off the ground and dusting his hands on his pant leg. "Thanks, Andras." he said, his voice low, "For telling me. You and Trixie are probably the only ones who would have." he shrugged, passing a hand through his own shaggy hair. Thoughts swam through his head as he tried to figure out what to do now, but there was only one thing he really wanted to do. He wanted to see Jade. To see for himself what damage he had caused by pulling the woman into a dangerous game. He looked back at Andras, having realized his eyes had shifted to the ground again, "I'll go shower, and make my way to her room. I'll take my chances about her wanting to see me or not." he shrugged, and started back for the base, the axe and pile of wood forgotten for the time being. They had plenty of cut firewood anyhow. He glanced toward the doors just as Trixie exited the base, head rotating in search of something. "Looks like Trixie is looking for you." he commented and then continued passed the demon and inside. He headed straight for the area where he could get a shower, and then to the small, dormitory style room that he had been given. He dressed in clean clothing, torn jeans and tattered shirt, before making his way to Jade's room, wondering if she would be willing to see him.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade spent an hour within the bath, scrubbing the dirt and grime from her skin, relented on forgetting the horrid experiences that clawed at her mind, fading away the relaxation she had hoped for. Feebly she climbed from the porcelain tub and wrapped herself in the left behind towel, ambling out of the bathroom. She then had been dressed into fresh, clean clothes, aided by the woman who had been left in Trixie's place for the time being. Wounds had been previously patched before that, causing the witch extremely intensive pain. There was little to none she could do about that in her state; she was weak, no spells could be performed to lessen the pain, to quell it as best as possible. So she remained in the being of misery, the slightest movement of raising her arms just for a shirt to be tugged over her head was enough to implement further strain upon the patched injuries. The woman laid her back afterwards, tucking the blankets over her form. "Can you get me something to eat? Please?" She meekly asked, watching as the woman's face softened up with an aspect of gentleness.


"Of course, Jade," she chided. "I'll be right back."


Jade's gaze lingered on her retreating form as she vacated the premise of the bare room, then she struggled to sit up and take in the room with bleak eyes. The emptiness that was felt within it.


Not far from Maddox, albeit were getting closer to the ex-politician, were a group of supernatural rebels. Those they had come to despise the man, for screwing everything over with his general presence. And now, here he was, slinking around in hopes to see Jade after she had only returned. They wouldn't allow it, he had no right to face her. He had been the reason for her capture, for the torment. Because he had meant something to her, an aspect of weakness that had been edged within the witch. It wouldn't happen again. The three men jumped him at once, two restricting his arms, whilst the other rounded around to level a knife to his exposed neck. "Don't utter a word. Understood?"


The acknowledgment of Trixie's presence from Maddox made Andras pivot around on his feet. He sighed, long and drawn out. His head tilted to the side to take in his brief surroundings, then he began to walk towards the searching nephlim. The demon took his time, ambling slowly with his right foot forward then left. His hands pulled free from his pockets as he approached her, reaching out and grasping her close. "Don't worry about me," he chided lighthearted to the woman, presenting the doting crooked smile of his, one that he always used around her. "I was just shaken up by Jade's appearance. It's been a while since I last seen her like that before. I'm alright." He assured plentifully, his fingers gliding across her waist in a comfortable motion, eyes slipping close to allow the content of the moment relax him and settle his nerves.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox grunted slightly as he was suddenly restrained, not an ounce of protest or resistance met his attackers. He swallowed thickly as the knife leveled against his neck, and he knew these guys were serious. He met the eyes of the one who held the knife, a minute nod of his head to show he understood. He should have known this would happen, especially now that Jade had returned. Yet as he looked at the man before him, something seemed to snap in his mind. Something he hadn't felt in many months. Fear. Desperation. Near utter terror that Jade was being ripped away from him once more. His sight swam as the unwanted, unshed tears threatened to spill down the man's cheeks. "Let me see her... please... let me see Add- Jade." He whispered, choking slightly on the nickname he recalled even now, but quickly changed to her actual name.


Trixie smiled when she felt the familar hands on her waist, and met the demon's gaze as he pulled her close. She recognized the smile, and the light chiding in his tone, which caused her to roll her eyes at him as she settled her arms around him in return. "Oh, sure. You're just peachy keen, aren't ya?" She teased lightly, a soft laugh bubbling out of her. She sighed, shifting one arm from around him to pass her fingers through his hair and down along his jawline. "I figured you were just shaken, but I still wanted to come check on you." She added gently as her hand settled half on his shoulder and half still on the side of his neck. "She's bathing, and I made sure someone was there for when she gets out. Medical supplies, and all that." She informed him, another sign slipping from between her lips. "I can't begin to speculate what happened to her, but it was nothing good. I take it you told Dox that she was back?" She asked, gesturing behind them towards the door that the dark haired human had disappeared through.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The cold blade of the knife pressed further to the skin of Maddox's neck, the man in possession of it drawing closer "What the fuck did I tell you? Be quiet. You ain't going anywhere near, Jade. Understood? You have no goddamn right. She's been through hell and back because of your sorry ass." He insisted, his words spitting out from his mouth with an aspect of disgust that had settled in him. The two other tightened their grips on each of Maddox's arms, a grip that refused to let go but albeit prepared for him to fight back.


"I can perfectly handle myself, gentlemen. I'm still a witch and he, a human. Let him pass."


The man holding the knife swiveled around to face the copper haired woman that had addressed them, Jade propped against the doorway and peering out to observe the situation Maddox had found himself in. When neither men moved, hesitating and opening and closing their mouths around words that tried to rightfully justify their actions, she sighed tirelessly, head inclined against the cold metal that made up of the door. "It's not a request, either. It's an order. Release him and then move along. Otherwise I'll have Andras deal with the lot of you." That seemed to get them to move. Andras had been the commander in her place. Previously before not many would have taken that threat serious. But with the demon being in charge for several months, that averted to a whole new perspective. The rebels released him, the man sheathing his knife. "It's not over," he grumbled to Maddox as he passed.


Jade watched them retreat down the hall, till they were out of sight. She slid her eyes to Maddox, then edged herself backwards into her room.


Andras's tilted grin widened, pleasantly thrilled by her teasing remark. That aspect still remained in the both of them, that was evident enough. He opened his eyes to look at Trixie whilst she spoke aloud, assuring that Jade was being overseen by another rebel member, to care for any need that arose from the severely injured witch. She had taken both physical wounds and mental, there was no doubt about it. His fingers ghosted upwards and slipped around her wrist, raising it to plant a kiss upon the back of her hand. "I'm glad she's finally resting... she deserves it. Definitely needs it. I can't imagine the bullshit she went through from being captured and kept in prison for seven months. They probably went to the greatest extremes to break her. I think she emotionally disconnected herself before they could do that. Hence the state she is in now. Just a blank slate." He exhaled out a sigh, lips pursed together as he considered Maddox into his thoughts. "I told him. He persisted in seeing her. I'm not quite sure how she will react. Usually I can read her and her emotions but not today. She's disconnected to the world around her and I figure when she sees him... it's not going to be the happy reunion he might foresee."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox gasped softly as the knife pressed further against his skin, a small hairline cut forming and beading slightly with red. He dared not swallow for fear of making it worse on him. His entire being seemed to tense when Jade's voice broke through their small dispute, and relief flooded through his limbs when they finally released him with threat of having to deal with Andras. It's not over were the grumbled words, and Maddox knew he was in for a fight. It was bound to happen, though he might have been saved slightly by the fact Jade was back alive. He sighed, but remained silent rather than give the other man fuel for his fire of hate toward the ex-politician. His eyes remained on Jade, a mixture of disbelief, sorrow, and regret playing through his features. Disbelief that she was standing before him once more, sorrow about everything she had been put through because of him, and regret that he hadn't been able to do anything differently. He opened his mouth to start to say something, yet there were no words his mind prepared for him to speak, and he fizzled, his mouth closing quickly. He noticed her edge backwards, retreating back into her room, and he swallowed thickly. He stepped to the doorway, putting a calloused hand against the door frame. "Jade?" he said softly, his tone a silent question for permission to enter her room.


Trixie smiled softly when Andras' lips pressed against her hand, "It's better she disconnected herself rather than allow them to break her. We can work slowly with her and re-establish her connection. We wouldn't have been able to fix her if they had broken her." she sighed, a short look of sadness wading through her eyes. The past seven months had been difficult, and it wouldn't be much easier now with Jade's return until she was somewhat back to her old self. "In all business, we should talk to Jade about you remaining leader until she feels like she can take over again. She shouldn't have to deal with everyone's problems until she's taken care of her own." the nephilim suggested, keeping her mind focused on the priorities before indulgences. "And as for Dox, he'll figure it out. Who knows? Maybe he'll be the one to help ground her again?" she added, cocking an eyebrow at Andras over the idea. Moments later, a thought broke through her focus of remaining in business and a sly smirk spread across her lips. "Buuuut~" She chimed, pulling herself away from the demon and twirling slightly, "Before we go off on business," she mused, taking a few steps toward the entrance back into the base, "We can always slip away for a bit of.... stress relief." she laughed, looking over her shoulder to Andras, a silent challenge. Something she knew would cheer him up a bit.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade had slipped back into her room of emptiness, the same feeling that stubbornly clung on and refused to let go. A gnawing desolate emotion that resided within her. Her fingers brushed across binders and files, nudging a few aside to see how many were gathered in an attempt to protect everything she owned. It wasn't everything, and not particularly what she wanted to see in this very moment. It was merely work, collected evidence to suffice against the government and its cruelly berating politicians. She felt Maddox near, lingering by the door in wait for permission. More than ever, she felt the presence of his soul. Edwin's old soul. She wielded her eyes to the side and pressed her lips together, considering the memories deep within the prison cell she had lived in for seven months. All terrible and grueling, the torture intended to wiggle out any slightest aspect of emotion. To break you. Her fingers trembled slightly, then she easily composed herself. She pivoted with a stumbling aspect as the witch dared to face the human with her once striking gaze, now reduced to a look of dullness. Reluctantly, with one hand, she gestured for him to come in. "Speak, you clearly want to say something, Maddox. It would be best to get it from your mind now."


"I hope we can reestablish her connection to those around her. She was doing so well before shit went down. She was actually allowing people in." Andras surmised, his concern growing for the copper haired woman. He had seen it before, the lack of emotions, the unawareness. It had all been followed in the wake of Edwin's death and the miscarriage of their daughter. And he had been there, thank God, to pull her from the slump. She fought him like hell, that's for sure, but in the end she had grown defeat and consumed to the ultimate break down that had been awaiting her, to grieve properly. "She did have a friendship/semi-relationship with Dox. Perhaps he can ground her after all... though, I do agree that she should focus on herself rather than let her be buried in work." Ultimately, the demon became acknowledgeable to Trixie's simpering slyness. Evident that she had something up her sleeve -- that something be some definetly needed stress relief. And the good kind too. His mouth tilted into a knowing grin, he moving his feet to follow after her. "Oh, I'm so down to that." Before she could implement any teasing, or racing into the base, he swooped beside her and hauled her into his arms. "C'mon princess. To the bedroom we go," he growled, sneering with delight.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox straightened from his leaning posture when she motioned for him to come into the room, taking only a few, hesitant steps in. He shoved his hands into his pockets, knowing whatever had started between them was probably the furthest from her mind. He had silently prepared himself, that he'd have no chance in hell at this moment to even consider continuing anything. Not to mention, as much as he wanted to, he didn't want to put her in that kind of danger again. He shifted nervously, working up his courage, the same courage he used to be so brimming with. His eyes darted around the room, in a back and forth motion from Jade to something, and back again. He sighed finally, and sent a hand streaming through his still damp hair, hair that was decently longer than when they had last seen each other, since he didn't know how to cut his own hair, or have any clippers that would have made it easier. "I'm sorry." he finally pushed out, almost desperately. "For getting wrapped in that game, for pulling you into it...." he bit his lip as it all came, seemingly pouring, from him. "For putting you in danger, and for getting you captured..." he continued, one hand in a pocket, the other still sitting at the back of his head. "Damn, I hate myself for what happened to you, and everyone knows how much I'm hated by the people here other than Andras and Trixie." he added, a bubble of a sarcastic, almost morbid, laugh slipping from him. He sighed, shaking his head, squeezing his eyes closed for a moment. "I can't begin to imagine the torture you had to go through because of me, and for that, also, I am sorry." he said, his tone softer, slower. His eyes finally found Jade, and remained there, a yearning to hold her behind the pain he put himself through.


Trixie gasped, a noise of laughing protest slipping from her as Andras lifted her into his arms, his delighted comment making her laugh warmly. "Off we go then." she agreed softly, her tone and expression both playing into her seductive actions. It would be good to get their minds off reality for a little while, letting their thoughts cool and allowing their bodies to relax. Part of her believed that was what helped Andras with the whole being leader ordeal, and in all honesty, she didn't mind. Her angelic side sang when she was able to help people, and she had become rather fond of the demon who now carried her off. "Jade will be fine, and we can go check on her once I've finished with you." she smirked, shifting her arms that were currently wrapped around Andras' neck. "If you aren't comatose." she added softly, making those last words a soft whisper just beside the man's ear, her lips grazing along his skin as she spoke.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade finally addressed his appearance with her wavering gaze; his hair hadn't been cut for what seemed like months, decently grown out since she had last seen him. His appearance was tattered, torn jeans and tattered shirt. Probably the only few clothes he owned. The rebellion didn't have much to spare these days it seemed, furthermore if you looked at her room and what little clothes she even possessed now, hanging off of a crooked, old desk in the corner. Things needed to happen, to convert together and make the base seem like home again. It was a little thought, nudging relentlessly at her brain for it to look at the big picture. But she averted the bubbling idea, discarding it unemotionally. His words reached her, she acknowledged them even as she strode across the room and perched back upon the mattress that laid out on the tile flooring. "You should know that my motive behind my capture was to see my father. Faced one on one. You were just another minimal reason that got in the way," she merely stated with an act of casualness that was unnerving for the witch. Furthering the point that she wasn't herself entirely. Her fingers wound themselves around a blanket, pulling it up and over her form to shield away from the draft that was entering the room from the hallway. "As for the torture and the hurt... that's another topic entirely that will not be discussed. In the end, don't feel sorry or burdened by the outcome. We both did what we had to do."


(Annnnd I'm assuming we should leave the lovebirds alone considering that they're going to do the do. xD )

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox sighed softly, fighting the hurt that tried to add to his nearly overwhelmed state at the way Jade reacted to his words. He shifted and let the door close behind him when he watched her pull the blanket over her thin form. He pressed his lips together, the personal torment he had put himself through over Jade's capture still fresh in his mind. He recalled when they had first met, and figured he'd give it a shot. She wasn't acting herself, and perhaps there was something he could do. Maybe if he could help her now, it would ease his own self guilt. Though he was fairly certain he'd continue berating himself over all this no matter what. He strode forward, lowering himself to the floor beside the foot of the mattress. His back was to Jade, not wanting to show the pain registering on his face. "So, where were we?" He asked casually, though it was slightly forced. "If you want to, anyway. I'm still open to questions." He said, turning his head slightly to give Jade a small, half smile.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade blinked wearily as the door clicked shut against the metal frame, watching with an aspect of confused curiosity as he strode forward, towards her mattress. She shifted, compressing a flinch as he came closer and proceeded to curl further into the blankets for any aspect of comfort. There was a straining appearance to his face, perhaps suppressing any feeling of simmering pain. Jade, the usual Jade who had dared to drawn close to Maddox, would have done something to aid his hurt. Anything, really. A spell, a comforting hug, or give as many kisses he desired. But that wasn't Jade right now. Although Maddox seemed determined to try his hardest to bring her back around. And it took her a moment to realize what he was referring to when he spoke. The question game the two of them had stirred up as a common thing they shared now and then to pass time. There was Edwin's persistence peaking through into his personality. Half of a ghostly smile tilted at her mouth as she turned to face him, lips splitting into a wide grin by the second. Then she remembered -- he wasn't Edwin. He never would be. Furthermore, she recalled the shared words her father had stated. He's your weakness. Don't let him break you. Her simpering smile faltered and faded. She turned away, wracking her mind for a proper question to propose to him. She had to, otherwise she would be left to the emptiness once more. "What's your favorite memory? Whether present, past, or childhood. Doesn't matter."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox gave a small scoff at the question, shifting as he considered how to answer. His head tilted back to look up at the ceiling, lips pressed together in a look of consideration. After a few moments, he glanced toward Jade, "When you agreed to go on a date with me." he said simply, shoulders shrugging. "I was thinking it was when I was little, and my mom would wake me up on Sunday morning with this huge pancake breakfast," he started to explain, looking away from Jade and toward the wall that he faced. "But then, I was thinking.... Yeah, I liked that. It was something me and her shared. But it didn't compare to that first morning I woke with you beside me. And if you hadn't agreed to date me, I would never have experienced that. So, I found my newest favorite was just that. You agreeing to date me." he explained, a small chuckle slipping from him. He paused a moment between his words and what he should say next, knowing the questions he wanted to ask immediately weren't going to be answered. Possibly, ever. He took a slow breath, considering, and then nodded to himself. "How are you?" he asked, pausing before spilling into an explanation. "Not overall, or how you've been. I'm meaning literally right now. Since you've been back."

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade merely listened while he spoke, an aspect of fondness evident in his voice as he declared that his favorite memory was their date. The one they had previously before everything spiraled into chaos, before her capture, and before where the rebellion were just dealing with minimal things at the time with the oppressive government. It felt like years to the witch, as if she missed important parts of her life that she could never get back. More so than ever she didn't know how to properly react to this notion. That clearly stated that his feelings were still there for her. Underneath the suppressed feelings perhaps she felt mutually. But she wasn't about to give into them. She couldn't because she would only love him for who he was supposed to be, a reincarnation of Edwin. He wasn't though, and that simply put the nail in the coffin on their once upon a time relationship. She blinked at his question, Jade shifting and then inclining backwards to lay on the mattress. "Empty, for one. Numb to my surroundings. That's about it really. Nothing more to it, if you expected a more happy response then I apologize. You won't be getting one from me anytime soon."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox watched her from the corner of his eye, how she lay back on the bed, the tone in which she responded to his question. He held his breath for a moment, his chest tight, and slowly released it to calm himself. "I didn't expect anything, to be honest. It's easy enough to tell you went through the depths of hell and back, so cheery or not, I'm happy with the fact you at least answered. Not to mention, I was able to hear the truth rather than some glossy exterior answer that is meant to keep people from continually asking you." he said with a shrug, swallowing the lump in his throat that had threatened to choke his words. It was obvious that whatever had been forming between them was back at square one, perhaps even further, but Maddox didn't seem to want to accept that. He couldn't. Not if he wanted to keep his wits. He let out another slow breath, and pushed off the floor to stand. "You should probably get some sleep, and I should probably busy myself with something before I'm called a slacker." he scoffed the last word, shaking his head, and turned to look at Jade. "If you want some company, you know I'm here." he said with the tiniest of smiles, and turned again to move for the door. He paused when his hand reached for the cold doorknob. "Call on me if you anything, alright? See you later.... Addie..." he finished, whispering the old nickname before opening the door and exiting the room. He needed to talk to someone before he went insane, and that someone was probably going to end up being two someones. More or less. He found his feet pulling him straight toward Andras' and Trixie's room.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The witch was silent, even as he addressed his response to the feelings she couldn't quite connect with, and then bid his goodbyes to be off somewhere he was more needed so he wouldn't be compelled as a slacker. Her eyes were fixated on the ceiling above and as she heard the pause in his footsteps, lingering at the doorway, she turned to peer at him as he voiced one last thing; her nickname. It may have been a whisper but it was loud in her ears, echoing and squirming the suppressed memories out again. She rolled over begrudgingly and curled her thin form against the sheets and blankets, willing herself to fall asleep and perhaps she could manage to be asleep all day long to get by.


The door to Andras' and Trixie's room was ultimately closed and locked. To avoid any interruptions as they relieved stress in the way they enjoyed the most; intimate fun, to put it more lightly. Though, as Maddox's footsteps ambled through the hall, towards them, Andras had to put a stop to what they were doing, much to his dismay, and clothed himself within a matter of minutes, stumbling over to unlock the door.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox blinked at the soft clicking of a door coming unlocked and new he had interrupted. He sighed, shaking his head, finding it hard to laugh over it like he would have just before Jade's reappearance. He knocked, "Sorry to interrupt. I... I wanted to talk about Jade..." he announced through the door. It was Trixie who had opened it just a few moments later, clearly hastily dressed. "Well, get in here and hurry it up." she said, still attempting to catch her breath for the moment. Maddox trudged into the room, and kept his eyes on the floor, feeling horrid that he even had to talk, but Jade's distant had felt like a knife in his gut. He lifted a hand, running it over his face with a soft groan. "She's... She's certainly not herself, and I don't know if I can help her..." he started, shoving his freed hand back into a pocket. "And... and I think I know why." he continued, chewing on his lip slightly. He lifted his eyes and looked at Andras, "Just before all this happened, and part of the reason it happened..." he bit his lip again, his chest constricting, "We learned I apparently am a reincarnation. I have her late husband's soul." he said, eyes falling back to the floor. "She even lets me call her Addie..." he shrugged, shaking his head slightly. "I fell for her, Andras... I fell quick, and I fell hard. Her indifference feels like a knife." he sighed.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Andras was hastily buttoning up his shirt whilst Trixie went to the door to allow Maddox in. As he looked up to the ex-politician, he could easily surmise how much it pains him to have seen Jade in the emotionless state she had encased herself into. Which lead to another thought -- perhaps the conversation between the two didn't go as planned. He sighed, hands dropping to his sides as soon as his shirt was fixed. "I had hoped you would be able to aid her back into her old self. But perhaps that's not even possible. I fear she may be too damaged, too far gone... and it's something that I'd rather not face. Let alone you," he explained heftily. Then he went still, freezing up underneath such news; Maddox is the reincarnation of Edwin. A thought that shook the demon, that clicked all the missing parts between Jade and Dox's relationship. The way they had connected, how it became easier to let loose and have fun because of one date. He let out a shaky breath and smoothed a hand over his face, "I wish I had known that sooner, Dox. Makes sense though. Your soul has always been a bit weird to me and slightly familiar. But... I can only imagine the pain you feel at the lack of no connection with Jade again. However, I have a quick question. Is it you that fell for her or was it Edwin again?"

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox was silent for a long moment as he considered Andras' words. Had this been seven months ago, he would have been angry to be asked such a thing, but after seeing Jade treat him as such, he wasn't sure. He didn't want to feel like he was at that moment. It hurt. Much like when he had learned when his father had killed another supernatural when he was younger. His lips pressed together, brows knitting in thought. After a moment, his eyes raised back to Andras. "A little bit of both, I think." He shrugged, moving a hand from his pocket to shove hair from his face. "Its hard... sometimes. To tell the difference between myself, and these repressed things that seem to bubble up occasionally that feel like someone completely not me." He explained, pressing his eyes closed. "And even if all the feelings were only mine, I doubt I'd have a chance anyway." He sighed, looking back at the floor. "I'm terrified that the only reason she doesn't mind me being around is because of who my soul once belonged to." He said softly.