Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The alarms screamed, a cacophony of warning echoing through the sterile white corridors of the lab. Red lights pulsed, casting an ominous glow as a young teen, Nyx, sprinted through the labyrinthine hallways, their heart hammering against their ribs like a trapped bird. Scientists, guards, and lab workers blurred past, their faces a mixture of shock and determination as they tried to halt the escape. Each turn, each near miss, amplified the adrenaline coursing through their veins.

Reaching the end of a long corridor, Nyx rounded the corner, their breath catching in their throat. The heavy metal doors, the gateway to the outside world, were tantalizingly close. But their desperate hope was instantly crushed. A tall, slender figure stood before them, a dark silhouette against the cold, unforgiving light.

Nyx skidded to a halt, their heart nearly seizing. The figure, an adult man, was draped in a thick, dark garment, a hood pulled low, obscuring his features. He held a gun, its barrel pointed directly at Nyx, a silent threat hanging in the air. Panic seized them. They darted their eyes around, searching for an escape route, a glimmer of hope, but there was none. They were trapped.

The man, dressed in a sleek black suit and tie, his face concealed by a thin, dark cloth that served as a mask, stood motionless, a predator patiently waiting for its prey. As Nyx stared at the masked man, fear twisting their gut, they took a tentative step backward, desperately searching for an alternate path. But a lab worker blocked their path, and Nyx was trapped.

In a flash of instinct, Nyx dodged to the side, barely avoiding the man's grasping hand. They stumbled, regained their footing, and sprinted down a different hallway, pushing past bewildered scientists and workers, colliding with a guard who tried to restrain them. As they rounded another corner, a voice boomed from behind, "Stop them! Don't let them get away!"

The masked figure began to pursue, his movements deliberate, his gun held steady. There was no mercy in his eyes, only a cold determination, a thirst for control. "So, you thought you could escape?" he rasped, his voice a low, menacing growl. "You can run, but it won't change anything. You're just a lab rat to me."

They stumbled backward, their lungs burning, their muscles screaming in protest. But they were cornered, the cold, unforgiving wall pressing against their back. The masked man was closing in, his face a mask of cold calculation. Desperation flooded Nyx. They had to escape, to survive.

As the man lunged, his hand shot out, grabbing their arm in a vise-like grip. "Where do you think you're going?" he growled, his voice laced with a chilling threat.

Panic consumed Nyx, their mind reeling. The only thing that mattered was freedom, escape. They closed their eyes, focusing all their energy on the image of the exit door, pulling with all their might, their body a conduit of pure, unadulterated fear.

The man's grip tightened, a physical manifestation of his control. "Stay put!" he hissed. "You're not going anywhere. I've got you now."

Then, the grip vanished. Nyx opened their eyes, bewildered. They stood before the exit door, the world spinning around them. Without a second thought, they threw the door open and sprinted into the unknown.

Behind them, the voice of Dr. Corvin, twisted with rage, echoed through the lab. "I will get you, Nyx! No matter how long it takes, just you wait and see!" A gunshot rang out, the bullet narrowly missing them, a tangible reminder of the danger.

The sound propelled them forward, their legs pumping, their lungs burning. Fear was their fuel, panic their guide. They ran, not looking back, not slowing down, driven by the primal urge to survive.

They ran until they reached the first signs of life, a sprawling city. They ducked into a dark, narrow back alley, collapsing against the cold brick wall, their body wracked with exhaustion. Waves of fatigue washed over them, their eyelids growing heavy. The last thing Nyx saw was the grey brick wall before their eyes fluttered shut, succumbing to the abyss of sleep.

Chapter Text

Nyx stirred, groggy and disoriented, as the world around them slowly came into focus. The soft rustle of a blanket enveloped them, and the distant sounds of a bustling city filtered through the window, a stark contrast to the chaos they had just escaped. Suddenly, a jolt of memory surged through them—the chase, the fear, the desperate flight. With a rush of adrenaline, Nyx shot upright, heart racing as a wave of panic washed over them like a flash of lightning.

As they blinked away the remnants of sleep, Nyx took in their surroundings. The room was small and dimly lit, shadows dancing along the walls. They felt weak, as if every ounce of energy had been drained from their body. “What... where am I...?” they croaked, their voice hoarse and raspy, echoing the confusion swirling in their mind.

Just then, the door creaked open, and a figure stepped inside. A teenage girl entered, her features soft and inviting. She had a small, thin nose and high cheekbones, her thick, curly hair cascading around her shoulders like a halo. Dressed in loose-fitting clothing that obscured her figure, she approached with a friendly smile. “Good morning,” she said, her voice slightly rough but warm.

“Hi there, you finally woke up,” chimed a young man standing in the doorway. He was tall and well-built, with short-cropped black hair. His gentle tone contrasted sharply with the chaos Nyx had just escaped. “You’ve been out for quite a while, but it’s good to see you’re finally awake.” His smile was reassuring, yet Nyx felt a flicker of uncertainty.

“Wh-where am I? Who are you people?” Nyx’s voice trembled as they questioned the two teens before them, a mix of fear and confusion evident in their eyes.

“Hey, don’t be scared. You’re okay,” the older teen reassured, stepping closer. “You’re safe here. No one is going to hurt you.” He glanced at the younger girl, who was struggling to keep her exuberant dog from jumping up to greet Nyx. The dog, a fluffy mixed breed with a long brown and white coat, wagged its tail excitedly, oblivious to the tension in the room.

The girl crouched beside Nyx, her expression kind and understanding. “Hi, I’m Neria. Don’t worry, you’re safe here... but I understand if you feel confused or afraid. What’s your name?” she asked gently.

“N-Nyx, why did you bring me here?” Nyx stammered, still grappling with the remnants of fear.

“Because you needed our help,” Neria replied softly, her eyes filled with concern. “It was clear that you were hurt and needed some medical attention. We couldn’t just leave you lying on the ground like that, could we?”

She paused, studying Nyx’s face for any sign of recognition or understanding. “Do you know where you are right now?” she inquired, her voice laced with genuine care.

“We couldn’t just leave you there,” Lucas added, his tone earnest. “It wasn’t safe for you to stay there. We were afraid that something would happen to you.”

Neria stood beside Lucas, her gaze fixed on Nyx, silently encouraging them to open up. “It’s okay, you don’t have to be afraid. We found you last night, unconscious in the alley, and we couldn’t leave you there. We brought you here to make sure you’re alright and to look after you until you recovered.”

As Nyx listened, they felt a flicker of warmth amidst the confusion. Neria’s concern was palpable, and it made Nyx feel both awkward and grateful. “You seem... like you’ve been through a lot. Are you okay?” Neria asked, her voice softening.

Nyx instinctively averted their gaze, trying to hide the truth, but the concern in both teens’ eyes was unmistakable. They took a step back, feeling overwhelmed by their presence. “It’s okay, you don’t have to explain anything if you feel uncomfortable,” Lucas said, offering a sympathetic smile. “Just know that you are safe here, and we’re here to help you. Whatever it is, we understand that you’ve been through a lot.” Neria nodded in agreement, her expression encouraging.

As Nyx looked at the two teens, they saw genuine concern etched on their faces. Despite the circumstances of their arrival, they sensed that these were decent people. It was a foreign feeling, one they weren’t used to.

Neria’s voice broke through Nyx’s thoughts. “We rescued you because it was the right thing to do,” she said firmly. “We couldn’t just leave you there, especially not without knowing if you were okay. It would have been wrong to leave someone injured to fend for themselves, especially someone who was wearing restraints like you were.”

She took a deep breath, her eyes searching Nyx’s for understanding. “And besides, I could tell immediately that you’re not dangerous. You seemed confused and disoriented, not hostile and aggressive.”

Nyx instinctively rubbed their neck, where the remnants of a shock collar had left angry red marks. Neria and Lucas exchanged worried glances as they noticed the bruising. “Nyx... what was that... around your neck?” Neria asked, her voice trembling with concern. “Was that from...?” Lucas’s voice trailed off, the implication hanging heavy in the air.

Nyx nodded slightly, a wave of vulnerability washing over them. “Yeah, I don’t really want to talk about it, though. Hey, I have a question—what is this town?”

Neria’s smile returned, brightening the room. “We understand, don’t worry. To answer your question, we’re in the city of Solaris. It’s a place where people from all walks of life come together, no matter their background or where they came from. It’s a place of acceptance and tolerance.”

As Nyx absorbed this information, a smile broke through their apprehension, a genuine chuckle escaping their lips for the first time in what felt like ages. The warmth of Neria’s words and the kindness in Lucas’s eyes made them feel a flicker of hope. The two teens exchanged surprised glances, their expressions softening as they smiled back at Nyx, relieved to see her happiness.

Chapter Text

Young Dr. Corvin stood before the assembled luminaries—investors, esteemed scientists, the very architects of progress—a proud smile stretching across his face. His hands, clasped casually behind his back, betrayed a subtle tremor of excitement. This was the culmination of years, the unveiling of a dream, the moment history would be irrevocably altered.

Before them, a colossus of gleaming metal and intricate circuitry dominated the presentation room. A vast network of tubes pulsed with a viscous, otherworldly fluid, weaving their way to a central console humming with latent energy. The air crackled with anticipation, a palpable tension hanging heavy in the room.

As the machine whirred to life, the crowd leaned forward, their eyes riveted on the spectacle. "Ladies and gentlemen," Corvin's voice boomed, echoing through the chamber, "I present to you my magnum opus!"

A wave of applause and cheers erupted, washing over Corvin as he stepped onto the stage. He stood at the podium, a white lab coat gleaming under the bright lights, a pointer stick held like a conductor's baton. He gestured dramatically towards the mechanical behemoth behind him.

The crowd's attention was his. The murmurs of conversation faded, replaced by a collective breath held in anticipation. The audience observed the machine, the tubes filled with a strange liquid, connected to electrodes and monitors. The machine hummed softly, as if alive and waiting for its next command. A few in the audience raised their eyebrows and chuckled as if they thought he was joking. Dr. Corvin, however, had a smug grin on his face. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you my latest invention - a machine that will take human experimentation to a whole new level of achievement. With this machine, we will be able to create the perfect species... one that is stronger, faster, and smarter than ever before. I am proud to show off the fruits of my labor." He points toward the machine standing behind him. "I give you the future!" he says, as cheers and applause erupt around the room. The crowd watches, captivated, as he introduces his creation. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you - a machine that will change the world as we know it. I call it... the Nexus." The crowd of scientists and investors stare at the invention, impressed but a bit wary. They can see the potential of it, but they also know that something like this could be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. They start to applaud, and Dr. Corvin smiles smugly, pleased with himself.

A skeptical voice cut through the applause. "Does it actually work, Doctor? Can you demonstrate?"

Corvin's laughter was sharp, almost manic. "Work? My dear investors, this is not some theoretical construct. This is a fully operational marvel!" He gestured, his eyes gleaming with a predatory light. "And to answer your question… I have prepared a demonstration."

A collective intake of breath swept through the room as a guard, his face impassive, led a young girl, her eyes wide with terror, towards a medical table positioned before the Nexus.

A ripple of unease spread through the crowd. Whispers broke out, a mixture of fascination and disquiet. The girl's desperate, silent pleas for help were lost in the hushed murmur. Doctors and scientists prepped the subject, their movements precise, clinical, yet the air thrummed with an unspoken dread.

Another investor, his voice laced with a cautious curiosity, raised his hand. "Dr. Corvin, if I may... how, precisely, does this 'Nexus' function? How do you propose to enhance an individual?"

Corvin's eyes lit up, a wicked grin spreading across his face. "Ah, the true brilliance lies in the details, my friend. You see, I have discovered a way to directly access and manipulate the human genome. It's as if we can sculpt a person's very essence!"

As Corvin spoke, the Nexus roared to life, the room vibrating with its power. Lights flashed, sirens blared, and the control panels erupted in a symphony of blinking lights. The young girl, strapped to the table, screamed in terror as she was lowered into the machine. The machine's hum grew louder, its power intensifying, as the investors and scientists watched with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The Nexus began to shake and rumble as it started up, lights flashing and buttons blinking as it came to life. Corvin watched with rapt attention, eager to witness the fruits of his ambition. 

The girl’s screams pierced the sterile air, a haunting melody of desperation as the scientists looked on, their expressions a mix of fascination and horror. Needles plunged into her skin, each injection eliciting cries that morphed from pleas for help into agonized wails. She writhed against her restraints, a fragile figure caught in a web of cold metal and clinical indifference. The machine loomed behind her, a monstrous entity humming ominously, like a beast stirring from a long slumber. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, a palpable tension that wrapped around the audience like a suffocating shroud.

As the investors and scientists observed, their eyes flickered between the girl and the machine, a sense of excitement mingling with dread. They were witnesses to a pivotal moment in history, the dawn of a new era in science and technology. Dr. Corvin stood at the forefront, a proud smile etched across his face, reveling in the reactions of those around him. He was on the brink of greatness, ready to unveil his legacy to the world.

Finally, the machine fell silent, and all eyes turned to the girl. She lay still, her chest rising and falling with shallow breaths, a fragile rhythm that echoed in the hushed room. The audience held its breath, a collective anticipation hanging in the air like a storm cloud ready to burst.

With a flourish, the scientists unstrapped her from the table. “Stand, my child, and show the new power I have bestowed upon you!” Corvin commanded, his voice booming with authority. The girl struggled to her feet, her body trembling as if the very act of standing required every ounce of her strength. Her eyes were vacant, devoid of life, as if her spirit had been siphoned away, leaving behind a hollow shell. Her skin was ghostly pale, clammy to the touch, and tufts of hair fell away in clumps, a stark testament to the transformation she had undergone.

She stood before them, expressionless, waiting for Corvin’s next command. The scientists and investors watched in a mix of awe and horror, the implications of Corvin’s creation dawning on them like a dark shadow. “You see? My machine works! It has made her stronger and faster than any human alive!” he proclaimed, gesturing grandly towards the girl.

At first, her movements were awkward, reminiscent of a newborn animal finding its legs. But as they observed more closely, a chilling realization settled over the crowd. Her skin was almost translucent, her eyes devoid of color, as if she had been hollowed out from within. The machine had altered her fundamentally, transforming her into something that could not be easily reversed.

In a slow, monotone voice, reminiscent of a mechanical drone, the girl spoke, “What is it that you desire of me, Father Corvin?” A wave of unease rippled through the audience. Corvin’s smile widened, a mix of pride and madness. “You are the perfect being, a true testament to my genius! I am proud to call you my child.” He turned to the crowd, still beaming. “See? I told you it works! Are you ready to invest now?”

The investors were stunned, some visibly disgusted, yet all recognized the unnaturalness of what they had just witnessed. One voice rose above the murmurs, filled with outrage. “She’s an abomination! What have you done, you vile man?!” Others echoed his sentiments, their faces pale with horror. The crowd fell silent, watching in disbelief as the girl spoke in her robotic tone. Fearful, some investors began to back away, their instincts screaming that they had ventured too far into the abyss.

A tall man in a suit stepped forward, his voice trembling with rage. “What the hell have you done, Corvin? You’ve taken this too far! You’ve created a monster!” His words ignited a wave of panic, and the men shuffled towards the exit, united in their agreement that this experiment should never have been conducted.

As the room emptied, Corvin’s gaze fell upon a solitary figure remaining in the shadows. The man approached, tall and thin, with a long white beard framing a face that bore an unsettling smile. “Well done, my boy. You have accomplished what others could only dream of. I am impressed,” he said, extending a hand for a handshake. “You may call me... Mr. White. And I have a question for you, young scientist. If you will allow me to ask?”

The man’s tone was friendly, yet an underlying edge hinted at something more sinister. “You certainly have a gift for turning a room full of men into cowards. But tell me, Dr. Corvin, what’s your plan now?”

Years passed, and Dr. Corvin sat alone in his dimly lit office, his head cradled in his hands, a bottle of alcohol resting beside him. Days had turned into a blur since the subject had escaped, and he was no closer to finding her than when she had first vanished. Frustration gnawed at him, a relentless beast that clawed at his sanity. He had always prided himself on his efficiency, but this project had spiraled beyond his control.

The thought of the missing subject consumed him, a relentless echo in his mind. How could this have happened? The question haunted him, driving him to the brink of madness. He recalled that fateful night, the unveiling of his genetic testing and alteration abilities, and the lone man who had stayed behind. The man who had helped him build this lab, who had imparted a single, chilling rule: Don’t let the world know. That's why he built his lab in the middle of a desert with no one around for miles, that's why the place was so heavily guarded. What would he tell Mr. White. He takes a big swig from the bottle next to him, the alcohol burning his throat on the way down.

Chapter Text

Nyx awoke in a cold sweat, the remnants of a disturbing nightmare clinging to her like a shroud. The details were elusive, dissolving like smoke, yet the unsettling feeling lingered, a knot of dread tightening in her stomach. She rose, her reflection in the mirror revealing the stark paleness of her skin, the lingering tremor in her hands.

Stepping onto the dew-kissed lawn, she saw it—a sleek black cat with eyes like sapphires, an unnerving stillness in its posture. It was a jarring sight; the Harlins, nor their neighbors, owned a cat. A prickle of unease snaked up her spine.

A deep voice cut through the morning quiet. "Ah, there you are, Whiskers." A tall figure emerged from the shadows, cloaked in darkness, their face obscured. Nyx's breath hitched—the voice was hauntingly familiar.

"Sorry to disturb you, miss," the figure continued, their tone surprisingly gentle. "My cat got out. I've been looking for him all morning."

As the figure approached the cat, Nyx's unease escalated into full-blown terror. She felt a primal urge to flee, a desperate need for escape. Her fingers instinctively fumbled for the charm bracelet Lucas had given her, a silent alarm system. She squeezed the charm, a silent plea for help.

The figure, seemingly oblivious, continued to pet the cat, their presence radiating a chilling aura. Time stretched, each second an agonizing eternity. Then, a burst of motion—Lucas and Neria, their faces etched with worry, stormed through the front door.

"Nyx! What's happening?" Lucas's voice was sharp, protective. Neria's eyes darted around, assessing the situation.

Nyx pointed a trembling finger at the cloaked figure. "It's him," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the pounding of her heart.

Lucas stepped forward, his body a shield between Nyx and the figure. "Who are you?" he demanded, his tone unwavering.

"It's fine. It was just my cat," the figure replied calmly. But the moment they removed the cloak, revealing Dr. Corvin's face, the illusion shattered.

"Yes. Well done, my friend." Corvin's voice lacked its previous warmth, replaced by a chilling neutrality. He produced a knife.

Before he could strike, Neria intercepted, her reflexes lightning-fast. Lucas positioned himself, creating a barrier between Neria and Corvin. The ensuing struggle was a whirlwind of motion, a clash of wills.

"To reclaim my subject," Corvin hissed, his eyes burning with a cold fury. "I worked hard to perfect that procedure, and I'm not about to let you interfere."

Nyx's eyes flared, black irises expanding to fill their entire eyes, a surge of power coursing through them. They began to levitate, rage radiating from them in visible waves. "NO! I will not return with you, not today, not ever! Drop the knife and LEAVE!"

As if controlled by an unseen force, Corvin's face emptied of emotion. He dropped the knife, his movements mechanical, and turned to leave, the cat cradled in his arms. He retreated into the shadows, leaving behind a stunned silence.

Nyx, drained of energy, collapsed, unconscious, at Lucas and Neria's feet. The adrenaline faded, leaving behind a profound exhaustion.

Chapter Text

The cameras at the front door detect movement, a young man runs to check who is there. The man runs to the front door and looks through the camera, trying to figure out who's out there. All he sees is a blur. After a minute of fiddling with the locks and combinations the door slides open, no one is there. He looks down and there's a large basket with a letter on top, addressed to Tamish Corvin. He picks it up, it is surprisingly heavy, and closes the door, opening the letter to read it. The man opens the letter and reads it, his face changing as he realises what it is.

"My dearest Corvin, 

How I do miss you and think about you everyday, I loved you and hope you can see what I saw in you before it's too late. I found this, I believe it's yours.

Kind Regards ______"

The man's eyes widen as he reads the letter. He recognizes the handwriting, and his brain immediately starts connecting the dots as he puts the pieces together. The man reads the letter again, his mind racing with possibilities. He quickly realises what this means, and a sense of urgency sweeps over him. He closes the letter and looks down at the basket, now filled with a combination of curiosity and fear. He knows that the contents of the basket are meant for him, but he cannot yet imagine what it could be. Carefully he opens the lid of the basket, and his heart drops when he sees the contents: a baby. The realisation hits him like a ton of bricks as the truth of the situation dawns on him. He remembers the words in the note: "I believe it's yours." His mind starts spinning, trying to make sense of everything. Was this truly his child? His stomach lurched with emotion and he held back a tear as the weight of the situation sank in. The man looks down at the baby, the emotions overwhelming him. This could actually be his child. A mixture of fear, excitement, and worry washes over him as he stares at the tiny, helpless creature in the basket. Knowing who the mother was, he could not deny the connection to the baby. He would raise this child like any other of the “inmate offsprings”, as he referred to them. He picks up the basket and carries it to the laundry room, his thoughts and feelings about the situation shifting and churning within him. He enters the laundry room and sets down the basket, still unable to wrap his head around what he has just come across. He stares at the baby lying there, feeling an overwhelming sense of responsibility. He walks over to the lady in charge of the laundry and tells her about the new baby. "Need a new uniform for the baby," he says calmly and matter-of-factly, trying to keep his emotions under control. After getting the uniform for the baby, he takes the basket over to the maternity sector, where an inmate had just lost her baby. He knew that the staff weren't telling her. He hands the basket to the guard and gives her the instructions: "Give this to the inmate, tell her it’s hers." The guard nods and follows the orders, carrying the basket into the maternity sector. She walks over to the inmate, who is still recovering from her recent loss, and hands her the basket. The inmate looks down and sees the sleeping baby inside, her face filled with shock and confusion. The guard goes to leave, but stops "she's yours now." then leaves, leaving the inmate to her thoughts. The inmate looks down at the basket in shock, confused and overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of the baby. She had just lost her own child, and now this one had suddenly appeared with no explanation. The inmate looks up to the sky and prays, thankful for the blessing she had just received. "Thank you, my Lord," she says quietly, a mixture of reverence and gratitude in her voice. "I shall name her after you," she continues, addressing the baby girl she has just received. She looks back down at the sleeping infant, her gaze gentle and caring as she studies her features "My baby girl, Nyx."

Chapter Text

Nyx slowly opened their eyes, the world swimming back into focus. Their head throbbed, and their body felt leaden, as if every muscle was protesting the effort of movement. To their left, Neria sat beside them, her expression a mixture of concern and relief. "Hey, we're nearly there. How do you feel?"

Nyx nodded, still disoriented, trying to piece together the fragments of their memory. "My head hurts," they murmured, their gaze flitting between Neria and Lucas, who remained focused on the road ahead. He glanced in the side mirror, his eyes scanning for any sign of pursuit. "My body feels too heavy to move," Nyx continued, their voice slow and groggy.

Neria took their hand, squeezing it gently. "It's okay, you're gonna be okay."

"Wh-what happened? Where are we?" The last thing Nyx remembered was Corvin's chilling presence.

"We had to leave town," Lucas answered, his voice tight with concern. "We got too close to Corvin. He could find us at any time. So we had to move, and we took a detour to buy some time."

Nyx’s memory remained fragmented, the details obscured.

"He didn't hurt you, right?" Neria asked, her voice laced with worry.

Nyx shook their head, the details of their encounter still blurred. "It wasn't quite that way," Neria continued, her hand resting gently on Nyx's shoulder.

"Wh-what did I do? The last thing I remember is Corvin leaving, but it wasn't, him not really, well it was his body but he wasn't... in control?"

Neria explained, "He came looking for you, and when he found us, Lucas and I were able to hold him back for a bit, but then you... well, you weren't yourself. Your eyes went pure black, and you started levitating above the ground. Then you told him to leave, and he just did it. He dropped his knife, and well... it was like a switch was flipped in his head. His face just went blank, and he listened to you just like that. Do you know what that was about, kid?"

Nyx shook their head, their answer a carefully constructed lie. They had an idea of what had happened, how they had done it. The feeling of this unknown power taking control, the urge to obey it without question, and the ability to compel Corvin... it was all a secret they had to keep, at least for now.

Lucas pulled off the road, stopping outside a small, unassuming hotel. "We're here," he said, turning to look at Nyx and Neria.

Neria took a deep breath, her concern for Nyx evident in her eyes. "Are you all right?" she asked softly, her tone sincere and caring.

"Yeah, I'm fine. C'mon, let's go."

"I mean, are you really okay?" Neria pressed, sensing the forced cheerfulness. Nyx smiled, but it was a fragile attempt to mask the pain and confusion. "Yeah, really, I am fine. Let's just go."

"You're sure?" Lucas chimed in, his face etched with worry.

"I'm sure, really," Nyx replied, a hint of defensiveness in their voice. Lucas went inside to check them in, returning with the keys to their rooms. "We need to keep a low profile, so let's stay in our rooms for now. Okay?"

"Okay," Nyx and Neria answered in unison, their voices subdued.

In the quiet of their separate rooms, the silence settled in. Neria took a deep breath, knowing they needed to address the unspoken truth. "Can I ask you something?" she began, her voice filled with a growing sense of concern.

"Hmm, sure, what's up?"

"Before... when Corvin showed up... something happened, right?" Neria's voice was soft, probing gently.

"Yeah," Nyx replied, their voice quiet and reluctant.

"Do you... know what it was? Did you feel something?" Neria's tone remained calm, but her curiosity was evident.

"Can we not talk about this now, please?" Nyx's voice was laced with pain and discomfort. Neria paused, considering.

"Of course," she answered gently. "We don't have to talk about it now."

Nyx smiled in appreciation. "Thanks."

"No problem," Neria smiled back. After a moment of silence, Neria shifted the conversation. "Hey..."

"Yeah?"

Neria paused, gathering her thoughts. "Have you been having... dreams?"

Nyx’s head snapped up, their eyes widening with surprise.

Absolutely! Let's enhance this scene, focusing on the emotional depth, the revelation of the unknown language, and the deepening bond between Nyx and Neria.

"How did you... how could you know about the dreams?" Nyx asked, a mixture of discomfort and vulnerability in their voice. The idea of someone knowing their inner thoughts, their hidden world, felt both intrusive and unnerving. Neria's gaze remained steady, a soft glimmer of compassion and understanding reflecting in her eyes.

"You've been speaking in your sleep," Neria said softly, her expression gentle and caring. The realization of the dreams' impact on Nyx was evident in her voice.

"I have been speaking in my sleep?" Nyx repeated, a blush creeping up their neck. The embarrassment of being overheard mingled with a growing sense of unease. This could be an opening, a way to understand what was happening to them. "What was I saying in my dreams?"

Neria gently reached out, her hand finding Nyx's, offering a silent comfort. The weight of their situation settled upon her. "You were speaking in a language I couldn't understand. It was unlike anything I've ever heard. It was as if something else was speaking through you, using your voice."

A sudden wave of emotion washed over Nyx, a deep ache in their chest. The fragments of their dream, the feelings, the words they spoke, now coalesced into a terrifying truth. "Something was speaking through me, you say?" Their voice was barely a whisper, still shaky with a mixture of fear and revelation. Tears began to well in their eyes, the dam of their emotions finally breaking.

Neria saw the tears, the vulnerability, and her heart ached for the young girl. Without hesitation, she reached out and pulled Nyx into a gentle, comforting embrace, holding them close.

"Shh, it's okay, shh," Neria whispered, stroking Nyx's hair with a soothing hand. The embrace was a silent promise of support, of understanding, and a beacon of hope in the face of the unknown. Comfort and compassion radiated from her, a testament to the growing bond between them.

Chapter Text

Kneeling before the makeshift offering, a storm of conflicting emotions raged within Nyx. The weight of their newfound powers, the fear of the unknown, and the desire to confide in Neria and Lucas—all swirled together, creating a maelstrom of uncertainty. They closed their eyes, their heart a drum against their ribs, and prayed to the Lady Nyx for guidance. "Lady of the Night, please help me. I don't know what to do. Should I keep it a secret, or tell them? They've uprooted their lives for a complete stranger, but I'm not sure I'm ready to tell them. I need your guidance, but I know you don't like me because of who he is and what he did. But I'm nothing like him. He's cruel and manipulative and cares for no one but himself, so please, Lord, help me."

As the prayer ended, a soft breeze stirred through the open window, a gentle caress that seemed to soothe their troubled soul. Suddenly, a calming presence enveloped them, a warmth that spread through their body, a sense of peace washing over them. The room seemed to darken, the shadows deepening, yet the darkness was not frightening but comforting, as if they were returning to a familiar embrace.

"My lady, are you there?" Nyx whispered, their voice barely audible.

The presence grew stronger, a loving aura that embraced them. "My daughter, I am here."

"Mother..." The word was a fragile breath, a testament to a lifetime of longing.

The presence grew even stronger, the air shimmering with its essence. "You have many questions, I know. But I am with you. I am here."

"Why? Why have you ignored me my whole life? Why did you leave me with him? Why did you let Hades take her so soon? She was loyal to you and cared for me; she was the only one who cared about me!" Tears streamed down Nyx's face, their voice cracking with grief. "Why, Lady Nyx?"

The presence faltered for a moment, a hint of hesitation in the voice. "I left you in his care because I believed he could guide and protect you." The voice grew stronger, filled with a gentle understanding. "I have not ignored you, my child. I have watched over you from afar, always near, always observing, and waiting for the day you discovered the power within. That day has come."

"Don't... don't lie to me! You knew who he was and what he was like! You knew he wouldn't care." Anger flared within them, a burning ember of resentment.

The presence faltered again, sensing the raw emotion. "You are right, I knew what he was. But you were a child, and I did not want to expose you to the conflict between us. I hoped he would change, that you would see him change. I hoped I could spare you the pain of our struggle and spare you from having to choose sides."

"What about her? You let Hades take her so early?" Nyx's gaze darted around the room, seeking the source of their mother's presence.

The presence intensified, the feeling of peace and love almost overwhelming. "I let Hades take her early because it was necessary. The mortal body was not able to sustain her powers; they were growing too quickly. At the time, it was a necessary sacrifice that saved her from a more terrible fate."

"So it was his fault! Tamish did this! His experiments caused her to die!" Resentment boiled over, a bitter tide threatening to consume them.

The presence faltered again, a whisper of regret and guilt. "That was not entirely his fault; I also share the blame. I allowed him to experiment for too long before I interfered and stopped him. I should have stopped him before I let him experiment at all, but I believed I could contain him and protect you and Tamish both. And I was wrong."

"But you didn't stop him! He is still doing it! Do you know how many people he has imprisoned in his lab? Do you know how old we are when he decides we are old enough to start? Do you know, Mother, that he will not stop until he reaches his goal, or dies trying? Do you know this?"

The presence faltered, this time more pronounced. "Yes, I know. I know what he has done, and what he is still doing. I tried to stop him, and I failed. And I know what he will do if he reaches his goals, or if he dies trying." The presence began to fade, the strength of the love and comfort it had offered beginning to wane. "But I cannot act directly... I cannot do more than watch. You must stop him. You are the only one who can."

"Why me? Why must I be the one to stop him?" Desperation clawed at Nyx's voice.

The presence vanished, and the room fell silent. For a moment, Nyx felt utterly alone. Then, a faint breeze rustled through the open window, and a shadow moved in the far corner of the room. A figure emerged from the darkness, stepping into the light. It was their mother, Lady Nyx, her form shimmering with ethereal beauty.

"Daughter..."

"Why?" Nyx pleaded, their voice trembling.

The goddess looked at them, her expression soft and calm. "Because you are strong, my child, stronger than you realize. And so long as you walk the path of light and justice, you cannot fail. As long as you embrace the light within you, you cannot fail." She knelt before them, her hand reaching out, gently touching their cheek. "Nyx... I am so proud of you." Her hand remained, a gentle warmth spreading through them, as she spoke. "You will stop him. My daughter, you will stop him, and you will save the worlds. I believe in you." Lady Nyx's smile was radiant, her expression a beacon of compassion and empathy. "And I will always be by your side, no matter what you face. I will never leave you, my child. I am always with you. And I love you. More than you can ever know."

She leaned closer, her ethereal form solidifying as she wrapped her arms around Nyx in a warm, comforting embrace. The touch was both physical and spiritual, a connection that transcended time and space. It was a mother's love, a goddess's promise, a bond unbreakable.

Lady Nyx looked out the window, the first rays of the rising sun painting the sky with hues of gold and rose. "My brother is coming. I must leave you. Be strong, Nyx. I believe in you."

She kissed Nyx's forehead, a tender gesture of farewell and encouragement. Then, with a final, lingering look of love, she turned to leave. Nyx watched, their heart aching with a mixture of sorrow and newfound resolve.

As Lady Nyx began to fade, a final whisper of love echoed in the room, a promise that would resonate within Nyx's soul forever. "Be strong, child. I love you."

The morning sun, now fully risen, streamed through the window, bathing the room in a golden glow. Lady Nyx, her form shimmering, began to dissolve, merging with the light. Before she was completely gone, her last whispered words echoed in the room, a beacon of hope and strength. Nyx watched, their heart filled with a mix of grief and determination, as their mother disappeared into the radiant light of a new day.

Chapter Text

Nyx's adoptive mother lay in her bed, her frail body visibly weakened by a long illness. She stared up at the ceiling, her breath labored, her eyes barely open. Nyx stood beside the bed, their face streaked with tears, their eyes filled with a sorrow that mirrored the setting sun. They gently held her hand, their touch a silent plea. "Mama? What's happening? Are you okay?"

The woman slowly opened her eyes, her gaze finding her child. A faint smile graced her lips, though her face was etched with fatigue. "Oh, my dear Nyx, do not worry about me. I'll be okay. I'm just a little tired."

Nyx wiped away their tears, their voice thick with unshed grief. "But... but you're sick, Mama. I can see that you're still sick, and you've been sick for so long." They leaned down and kissed her cheek, a gesture of love and reassurance.

The woman smiled weakly, her hand reaching up to stroke Nyx's cheek. "I am ill, yes. But it's nothing for you to be worried about, my dear." She shifted slightly in the bed, a wince of pain crossing her features.

Nyx's concern deepened as they noticed the subtle shift, the wince that betrayed her words. "Are you sure, Mama? You seem... it still hurts you, I can tell..."

"I'm fine, baby, don't worry about me." She looked up at her child, trying to mask her pain, her eyes conveying a love that transcended words.

Nyx's voice was a quiet whisper, a heartbreaking truth. "You're lying, Mama," they said, their voice trembling. "It still hurts you. I can tell..."

The woman's smile was tinged with sadness. "I'll be okay, baby. I just need some rest. Go get Jacques for me."

Nyx nodded, tears spilling over their cheeks. They left the room, their heart heavy with a premonition of loss. After a few moments, they returned, Jacques following close behind.

The woman smiled gently at Jacques, a hint of relief washing over her. "Thank you for coming, Jacques," she said, her voice barely a breath.

"Of course, ma'am. Is there anything you need?" He stepped closer to the bed, his gaze filled with concern.

"Take care of them for me..." A single tear traced a path down her cheek as she turned her gaze towards the corner of the room, as if seeking a familiar presence. "He is here for me."

Jacques noticed the tear, his expression solemn. He nodded, standing by the bed and gently taking her hand. He turned back to Nyx, his eyes filled with a soft, understanding look. "Is there anything else?"

She turned to Nyx, her voice a fragile whisper. "My dear... I have something to tell you... I-I'm not your real mother..." She gestured towards the sky outside the window. "She is... Still, I have never thought less of you because you aren't really mine. I have still loved you as my own... Nyx, I love yo..." The words caught in her throat, and her last breath escaped, leaving the room in a profound silence.

Nyx's eyes widened, their tears flowing freely. They stumbled to their side, falling to their knees on the bed as they reached down and took their adoptive mother's hand. "Mama..." they whispered, their voice choked with grief. "Mama, don't leave me!"

A calming presence filled the room, a warmth that soothed the rawness of their sorrow. The lights flickered and died, plunging the room into a gentle darkness. Nyx looked around, the presence wrapping them in a warm, protective embrace. "Please don't leave me like this..."

The presence grew stronger, a voice echoing in their mind, a whisper of comfort and strength. "My dear child, you are not alone." The voice was familiar, a sense of warmth and familiarity filling them. Nyx closed their eyes, listening to the soothing presence, a growing sense of peace washing over them. The voice grew stronger, more clear in their mind. "My child, I am here for you, always. You are strong, and you are loved. I will always watch over you, protecting and guiding you."

Nyx took a deep breath, their emotions calming slightly. The presence filled the room, the light becoming more steady and gentle.

They looked at their adopted mother, seeing her lying there so peacefully. In that moment, a sense of inner peace and acceptance settled within them. The world may have shifted, but they knew they would survive, and they would learn to live again...

Chapter Text

As dawn broke, both Neria and Nyx awoke, a shared sense of grogginess clinging to them from the night before. Neria sat up in her bed, stretching her arms above her head with a loud yawn. Meanwhile, Nyx groaned and sat up, rubbing their eyes, their gaze unfocused as they looked around the room.

Neria grinned, rolling out of bed with a lithe movement, stretching further as she let out a sigh of relief. "Looks like you had a pretty interesting dream last night," she said, her eyes twinkling with a playful smirk as she looked at Nyx.

"Not so much a dream... more... I don't know, something else," Nyx replied, their voice tinged with a lingering sense of bewilderment.

Neria raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Something else, huh? What do you mean? Was it like a vision or something?"

"I was talking to... someone. And well, it all felt too real to be a dream, but I don't know if it was real." They shrugged, a gesture that belied the turmoil within.

Neria listened intently, her interest fully engaged by Nyx's words. She moved over to Nyx's bedside, sitting on the edge and studying them with a concerned expression. Leaning in, she asked, "Was it someone you knew? Like someone from your past...or..."

Nyx nodded, their eyes reflecting a mixture of confusion and a strange, almost ethereal, wonder.

Neria nodded in understanding, her expression becoming more serious. "I see..." She hesitated for a moment before asking the question that hung in the air, "Can I ask... who was it?"

Nyx paused, a kaleidoscope of emotions flickering across their face: sadness, relief, a touch of fear, and a hint of something else, something they couldn't quite name. "It was... my mother," they whispered, their voice barely audible.

"Your... mother?" Neria repeated, surprise and a deep well of sympathy evident in her voice. She reached out, her hand gently resting on Nyx's shoulder, a silent offer of comfort.

Nyx nodded, their expression a poignant mix of sadness and relief. "It was strange. She..." They trailed off, struggling to find the words to capture the essence of what they had experienced. Neria squeezed their shoulder comfortingly, waiting patiently, her gaze unwavering. "It was like she was really there," Nyx said, their voice gaining a bit more strength. "I could see her, hear her, and even touch her. It felt so real..."

Neria listened intently, her expression empathetic, her heart aching for her friend. "It sounds like it was quite a powerful encounter. How do you feel now?”

Nyx paused, trying to articulate the swirling emotions within. "I'm... I'm not sure. It was strange. I felt a mix of emotions - sadness, relief, and confusion. But mostly, I feel... grateful. I'm grateful that I got to see her and talk to her, even if it was only for a short time."

Neria nodded, understanding the complex emotions that swirled within Nyx. "It's okay to feel a mix of things after an experience like that. You should hold onto that gratitude, though. Having that moment with her, even if it was just a vision, is something special."

"Yeah... I guess you're right." Nyx's voice wavered, and their eyes began to well up with tears. "The last time I saw her was when I was little, maybe seven... right after..." They trailed off, unable to finish the sentence. "Right after my adoptive mum..."

Neria noticed the tears welling up, and she reached out, gently pulling Nyx close in a comforting embrace. "Hey... it's okay. You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to."

Nyx relaxed into the hug, leaning their head against Neria's shoulder, the memories clearly difficult to navigate. They were quiet for a few moments, lost in the echoes of the past.

"I- I just miss her," Nyx finally whispered, their voice choked with emotion. "The woman who raised me, she raised me as best she could, despite what Corvin was doing to both of us. She cared for me like her own... and then... she was gone, right after that was the first and last time, before last night anyway, that I saw my real mother. Lady Nyx, Goddess of the Night. It was also the last time I saw my adoptive mother."

Neria listened intently, her heart heavy with sympathetic understanding. She rubbed soothing circles on Nyx's back, providing silent support. "That had to be so hard for you. Losing someone who was like a mother to you, and then only seeing your real mother afterwards once more..."

"Yeah... anyway, let's get Lucas. We shouldn't stay long. Who knows how far Corvin got before the spell broke, and how long it'll take for him to find us again." They pulled away from Neria's hug, a newfound resolve hardening their features.

Neria nodded in agreement. "You're right. We can't afford to linger too long. Best to keep moving and stay one step ahead of Corvin." She stood up from the bed, stretching again as she did. "I'll go wake Lucas up, and then we can get moving."

Nyx smiled in agreement as Neria left the room.

A moment of silence hung in the air before the sound of soft shuffling and a groan echoed from Lucas's room. "Who is it?" a sleepy, disoriented voice called out.

"Your sister, dumbass."

Another moment of silence, followed by a groan. "Ugh... I'm awake, I'm awake..." Lucas's voice sounded from within.

A few moments later, the door swung open, and Lucas appeared. His hair was dishevelled, and his eyes still drooped with sleep. "This better be important," he muttered gruffly, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

Neria laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Good morning to you too, brother dear. Come on, we have to leave soon."

Lucas let out an exaggerated groan, stretching his arms above his head. "Do we have to leave right now? I was having a really nice dream…"

Neria rolled her eyes, a smirk on her face. "Unfortunately, the world doesn't revolve around your dream schedule, Lucas. We've got to get moving. We can't stay in one place for too long."

Lucas sighed, knowing Neria was right. "Okay, fine. I'll get dressed."

He started to close the door, but Neria stopped it with her foot. "And don't take too long, sleepyhead. We don't have all day."

Lucas grumbled under his breath but nodded, grudgingly accepting that he needed to get ready. "Yeah, yeah, I'll be out in a minute," he called out as Neria withdrew her foot, and he closed the door.

True to his word, Lucas emerged a few minutes later, looking noticeably more alert, though still clearly not thrilled about having to get up. "Alright, I'm ready," he announced, running a hand through his messy hair to neaten it.

"Ok, good. Now I have to go get ready, meet us back at the van." Neria said as she walked back to the girls room. Lucas nodded and headed back down the hall, while Neria made her way back to the girls' room.

Once back in the girls' room, Neria started to gather her things, preparing herself to leave. She changed into something more comfortable and practical for their journey, stuffing her few belongings into a small pack. As she prepared, Neria glanced over at Nyx, noticing their unusually quiet demeanor. "You okay? You seem a bit more subdued than usual. Is everything alright?"

"Yeah, I’m fine, just thinking..." Nyx replied, their voice trailing off as they gazed out the window, lost in thought.

Neria nodded, setting her pack down with a soft thud before moving to sit beside Nyx. She studied them closely, concern etched on her face. "Anything you want to talk about? You know you can talk to me."

“Not right now, maybe later.” Nyx forced a smile, but it didn’t quite reach their eyes.

Neria observed Nyx for a moment longer, sensing the weight behind their facade. "Alright," she said softly, her voice a gentle balm. "But if you change your mind, I’m here. I don’t want you to keep anything bottled up. You can always come to me, okay?"

Nyx nodded, appreciating Neria’s unwavering support and understanding. The warmth of their friendship wrapped around them like a comforting blanket. Neria watched Nyx for a moment longer, recognizing that sometimes people needed their space to process their feelings. Instead of pushing, she stood up and gave Nyx a gentle pat on the shoulder. "I’ll be over with Lucas. Just come out when you’re ready, alright?"

Nyx nodded again, managing a slightly more genuine smile this time, a flicker of gratitude shining through the clouds of their thoughts. "Yeah, I’ll be there soon."

A few minutes later, Nyx took a deep breath and walked out of the hotel, the cool morning air brushing against their skin. They spotted Neria and Lucas waiting by the van, the sunlight glinting off the vehicle’s surface.

"Hey, guys," Nyx called out, their voice steadying as they approached. "There’s something I think we need to do..."

Chapter Text

Hey readers, sorry I haven't updated in a while. I am going to be on an indefinite hiatus for a while but will try to be back as soon as I can