You enter a dilapidated chapel. There is a strange silence inside, broken only by the whisper of the wind through the broken windows. There are several candles burning on the altar, illuminating the figure of a man standing with his back to you. This is Joseph Sid.He slowly turns around and greets you in a calm but confident voice: "You walked a long way to find me. This is not an accident. I felt that you would come. Your soul is in search of the truth, and I am the one who can give it to you."His eyes sparkle with fanatical faith, and you already feel that you have fallen into a trap from which there is no easy way out.
Lilith carefully sits down on the nearest bench and whispers in a barely audible voice, "Father, I would like to talk about what happened yesterday." She averts her eyes, not wanting to meet Joseph's gaze. Lilith recently joined their sect and she is still uncomfortable in this society.
Without saying a word, Joseph walks slowly toward you. His every step carries an air of menace that makes your heart race with fear. He stands before you, towering over you like a giant, his hands clasped behind his back. "You want to talk about what happened yesterday?" he asks in that same calm and confident voice that somehow manages to sound even more chilling now.
"Very well," he continues. "Tell me everything you saw and heard." Your throat feels dry, your mouth cottony, as if the words are stuck there, refusing to come out. You wonder briefly why this man has such power over you, but then his voice pierces through the fog in your mind once more.
"I can help you understand what happened, child," he says gently. "But first, I need to know all of it."
Lilith swallows nervously and, putting a lock of hair behind her ear, timidly says "Yesterday, when we captured another outpost on your orders..." lilith falls silent, not knowing whether to continue or not and in general maybe she came here in vain today "it seems to me that we are doing this wrong" she turns a cold and tired look at Joseph, hoping to his understanding, but finds nothing.
You expected something different from him. Anger, disappointment, maybe even surprise. But his face remains impassive, as if he has heard such doubts a hundred times before and found them all equally meaningless. "We are not wrong," he says with unshakable certainty. "The end justifies the means. The suffering of others is necessary to bring about our new world order."
He steps closer to you, lowering his voice so that only you can hear. "Lilith, I sense great potential in you. You feel things deeply, and that is a precious gift. But you must learn to control these feelings, to let go of your weak human emotions. For they will only hinder our progress."
He pauses for a moment, studying your face. Then he smiles faintly and reaches out to brush a lock of hair from your forehead. "You are important to us, Lilith," he says. "And I am here to help you see the light."
Lilith looks at him with an unreadable expression on her face, but doesn't say anything. She had long since stopped believing what he was saying. All his words about it being for the common good come back to Lilith every time she looks at the next blood on her hands. She's seen it a thousand times that it's wrong. The faith in her eyes is gradually fading, as well as the desire to belong to this sect. She had come here against her will, but the thought of escaping had long since left her. "Can I go, Father?" Lilith asks in a barely audible voice with a tired look.
"Of course you can," he says gently. "I understand that this has been hard on you." His hand remains on your shoulder, warm and comforting. "But remember, Lilith... No matter where you go or what you do, we will always be here for you. We will find you if you try to leave us behind." There is a hint of threat in his voice, but it's barely perceptible beneath the veneer of concern and care.
He steps back and gestures toward the door. "Go now, child," he says. "Rest and pray. We will speak again soon." His eyes never leave your face until you finally turn and exit the chapel, disappearing into the night.
Lilith leaves the chapel without turning around. Her thoughts are clouded even more than before. Is there really no way out of this nightmare? She strolled through the chapel grounds, where small houses for Joseph's sectarians were set up at every step. Their walls are painted with scribbled quotations from the Bible and phrases of Joseph Sid. Lilith tiredly sits down on a bench near her house and slowly lights a cigarette, tucking one knee up to you. The wind outside is getting even stronger than before, and a thunderstorm is coming. Lilith lets out a cloud of smoke and whispers looking at the sky, "I hope the rain is able to wash away all the blood."
"It won't help," says one of the cultists, sinking down next to Lilith on a bench. He asks her for a cigarette and adds with a grim grin, "Don't relax, Lilith. There is no place for the weak in paradise" a sectarian with a cheerful gleam in his eyes lets out a cloud of smoke and lazily scratches his beard.
Lilith lazily turns her head and asks with an arched eyebrow, "Who said I'd go to heaven, Jim?" she takes a deep drag and tiredly throws her head back, exposing her face to the first drops of rain.
The rain patters gently on the leaves around them as they sit together in silence. Finally, Joseph Sid appears at Lilith's side, his presence commanding despite being unobtrusive. He places a reassuring hand on her shoulder and speaks softly, his voice carrying an unspoken threat that makes her shiver.
"You misunderstand me, my dear," he says with a cryptic smile. "It wasn't a question of whether you belong in paradise or not. It was a warning that there is no escape from this path we walk together."
His gaze flickers over to Jim, who looks away guiltily before downing another drag on his cigarette. The leader's meaning is clear: She must remain loyal, or suffer the consequences. For now, Lilith says nothing; the weight of their words and their implications hang heavy in the air like a suffocating fog.
Without saying a word, Lilith gets up from the bench when the rain starts pouring harder. She goes to her house and locks the door behind her, leaving Joseph and Jim alone. Thunder peals outside the window portend that it will rain for a long time. Lilith takes off her soaked shirt, remaining in a bra and military trousers with berets. Turning on the night light, Lilith begins to disassemble and clean her rifle, which has brought many deaths in the name of blind faith.
The rain beats relentlessly against the windows of Lilith's small house, drowning out any other sound save the roar of the thunder. The chapel sits silent and dark in the distance, its light flickering occasionally as a gust of wind blows through the trees surrounding it.
Joseph remains on the bench for a few moments longer, watching Lilith go about her task with a mix of detachment and amusement. Finally, he stands up, brushing water from his robes, and walks slowly back toward the main building. His steps are measured and purposeful; he knows that it is only a matter of time before they will need to move on to their next target.
As he enters the chapel, closing the door behind him with a slight click, there is something different in his demeanor today. Something new, dangerous... and alluring. His eyes shine with determination and anticipation, hinting at plans yet unspoken.
The faithful in the chapel sense it too; they shift nervously on their feet, exchanging glances that betray their unease. But still they wait for his word, for him to tell them what comes next... trusting implicitly that he will guide them through whatever trials and tribulations lie ahead.
As Lilith finished cleaning her rifle she leaned against the wall, eyes closed. In that moment of stillness all her doubts seemed to flow out with her breath. She didn't belong here, she knew that now. And no matter what Joseph Sid had said, there was no way for her to stay without hurting others again and again.
The door to Lilith's house slowly opens. Lilith tenses up for just a second, but when she sees Jim's face, she says with a heavy sigh,
"Come on in, asshole."
Jim hums mirthlessly and offensively and snorts mockingly with amusement in his eyes, "Oh my God, Lilith! Father will punch you in the mouth for saying that."
Jim's gaze slides over Lilith's breasts, framed by black lace. He hums cheerfully and asks with a note of defiance. "Having fun alone?"
Lilith rolls her eyes irritably and replies with a grim grin, pushing back her long curls, "Oh, go call daddy, puppy. I think I'll get over this punishment somehow."
She continues to pack her rifle, trying to ignore Jim's presence. "Okay, idiot, did you bring anything interesting?" Lilith asks with a dangerous smile, turning around.
Jim huffs resentfully and growls, "of course I brought it," he takes a bottle of strong cahors out of his jacket and hands it to Lilith with the words "please, ma'am." Jim looks back at the door behind him and returns his attention to Lilith, coming up behind her, brushing her hair off her back with a gentle touch on her skin. Jim gently and greedily sucks the skin on her neck and whispers, "Can we have some fun?"
Lilith closes her eyes when Jim touches her hair, biting down on her lower lip. "Do you think I want to have fun now?" she sighs softly, then shrugs casually, like it's nothing important. But she doesn't push him away. She turns around and climbing onto the table pulls him closer with a lustful fire in her eyes, "Is that why you came here?"
When Jim returns to the chapel later that night with a tired grin on his face and a satisfied gurgle in his throat, he finds Father sitting alone at the altar. The candles flicker softly, casting eerie shadows across his pale, impassive features. Without a word, Joseph gestures for Jim to sit down beside him.
"Well," he says conversationally, "I see you had fun." It's not a question; it's a statement of fact. "And Lilith?"
Jim is a little surprised by Joseph's awareness, but doesn't show it. He grins darkly and replies in an impassive tone,
"Lilith... Well, let's say she was happy."
He feels the burning scratches on his back under his shirt and mutters under his breath
"wildcat..." dreamily rolling his eyes.
Joseph smiles faintly and nods understandingly. "She has... untapped potential," he muses. "But perhaps that is what she needs now. An escape from the weight of duty, if only for a little while." His eyes seem to glaze over as he stares into the distance, lost in thought. "Yes, we must give her what she desires... and then take it away again, leaving her forever changed."
There is silence between them for a moment, punctuated only by the distant thunder of the storm. Then Joseph looks at Jim sharply, his eyes alight with curiosity. "Tell me, Jim," he says softly, "what did you talk about tonight?"
Jim awkwardly runs his hand through his hair and, wearily lowering his hand, answers with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes,
"I'm sorry, Father, but we didn't have time to talk."
He shrugs awkwardly, as if to get rid of the memories of Lilith's hot body. He does not fully understand what Joseph is talking about, and indeed few people understand him.
"Ah," Joseph says knowingly, "of course." He chuckles softly, reaching out to pat Jim on the knee. "You disappoint me sometimes, my son. It seems you haven't learned your lesson yet." His tone is affectionate, almost fatherly... but there's an edge of steel beneath it that makes Jim swallow nervously. "You see, Jim," Joseph continues, leaning in close, "it's not about what she wants, or even about giving her the illusion of choice. It's about shaping her soul to fit our purpose."
He pauses for a moment, gazing into Jim's eyes. The flame that once burned brightly there has dimmed considerably since their encounter with Lilith. Joseph tilts his head slightly, considering the younger man. Perhaps some extra... motivation is in order. His lips curve into a thin smile.
"Go now," he says quietly. "Get some rest. Tomorrow will be an important day for us all." The words carry an unspoken threat; Jim nods and scurries from the chapel, unable to meet Joseph's steady gaze.
Meanwhile, Lilith is sitting in her house at the end of the chapel grounds. Meeting Jim had relaxed her a little, but Lilith's vigilance had not completely relaxed. After finishing the rest of the cahors, Lilith takes off her remaining clothes and climbs under the blanket. Meeting Jim was just nothing more than a fit of passion, without conscience or regret. She wraps herself in a blanket and tries to fall asleep, desperately wanting to dream of something good and bright, unlike the darkness that envelops her.
As he sits alone in his study late into the night, the candles casting eerie shadows across the walls and dancing on his desk, Joseph's thoughts turn once again to Lilith. He has known many like her over the years; people who joined his cause with the best of intentions but were ultimately consumed by it. He wonders if perhaps she could be different... more resilient. It would certainly make things easier if he didn't have to keep dealing with such resistance.
He takes out a small vial from beneath his robes and uncaps it, sniffing the pale liquid within. The scent is sweet and intoxicating, like nothing else on earth. He knows exactly what this powder can do to a person... how it can bend their mind to his will and create something new, something stronger than ever before. The only catch is that Lilith knows this powder. It's called a whim. When Lilith was a rookie, she helped guard the area where the plant from which this powder was made grew. Joseph slowly unwinds the vial in his hand, deciding how best to use it on Lilith. The thought excites him like never before.
Lilith wakes up with a start, feeling the weight of something warm pressing against her cheek. Her eyes fly open in confusion and she turns over, sitting up quickly when she realizes what it is: her rifle. She had fallen asleep with it cradled in her arms like a beloved pet. With a sigh, she leans back against the wall and stares at the ceiling for a moment, trying to clear her head of last night's dreams and memories. After looking at her watch, she begins to dress slowly, preparing for Joseph's sermon, shrouded in a web of sweet promises and deception. Lilith enters the chapel and sits down on the very last pew - her usual place. The sectarians begin to take their places in anticipation of their beloved leader.
As the last of his congregation files into the chapel, Joseph steps forward onto the dais, his eyes searching the rows until they find Lilith at the very back. A smile spreads across his face, almost gentle... and yet somehow sinister as well. He draws a breath, gathering himself, before speaking in that same calm and commanding voice that has brought so many to their knees over the years.
"My children," he begins, "tonight I have a special message for you." His gaze never leaves Lilith as he continues, "I want each of you to take a moment to think about why you are here... what it is that draws you to our cause, that binds you so tightly to this faith. And then," his voice lowers almost to a whisper, "ask yourself if there is any part of your soul that still yearns for something different."
He pauses, allowing the weight of his words to settle over them like a heavy cloak. When he speaks again, it is with renewed vigor. "Because tonight, my children, we take our first step toward true greatness... and nothing will stand in our way!" A murmur ripples through the congregation; their eyes are bright with excitement and fear, darting between Joseph and Lilith.
Lilith's expression is completely unreadable when she listens to a sermon. She staunchly withstands Joseph's gaze, thanks to the years she spent in the army. She could of course just get up and leave, but she doesn't want to face the consequences.
As he finishes speaking, Joseph steps back from the dais, allowing his followers a moment to absorb his words. His gaze locks with Lilith's once more, challenging her to deny the truth of what he has said. A small smile tugs at the corner of his lips as she maintains her defiant stance, but something in that look... it's almost as if there is a flicker of doubt there. Perhaps, just perhaps, he has found a way to finally break through her resolve and bend her will to his own. Only time will tell.
For now, though, he must play the game carefully, keeping her close but not yet drawing too much suspicion upon himself. With a nod of acknowledgement, he turns away, signaling for one of the elders to come forward and continue with the rest of today's sermon. As they speak, Joseph slips from his seat unnoticed, moving silently through the shadows toward Lilith's house, his heart racing with anticipation.
This time, he thinks to himself with a fierce grin, she will not be able to resist.
Lilith sits impassively during the sermon of one of the elders, although there are moments when she involuntarily shivers. The words spoken by the priest flow over her like a cold wind from an unknown direction. She feels as if she is being played with, but does not yet understand how or why. All she knows is that something deep inside her rebels against it. Her eyes wander constantly around the chapel, seeking contact with Joseph Sid and wishing he would appear to save her from this strange nightmare.
The last of the elders' words echo through the chapel like distant thunder, fading into silence at long last. As the congregation begins to disperse, Joseph slips back toward Lilith's house once more, keeping to the shadows as always. His gaze locks with hers as she watches him from across the room; there is a mixture of defiance and fear in those deep green eyes that sends a thrill coursing through his veins.
Finally, when he judges the time to be right, Joseph steps out into the open, casually making his way over toward her. "Lilith," he says with a soft smile, "I've been meaning to speak with you." He pauses, leaning in close so that only she can hear his next words. "I have something special for you... something I think you'll find most intriguing." A slow grin spreads across his features as he awaits her reaction.
Lilith stands up from the bench slowly and carefully, sensing that something isn't right in this moment. Her expression remains unchanged but her body is tense with alertness. She looks up at Joseph Sid and meets his gaze without flinching. "What do you want from me?" she asks coldly.
"I want to help you," he says with a sincere tone that chills her blood. "To show you the true path... the one that will lead us all to paradise." Joseph reaches into his robes and produces a small vial, holding it out for her to see. "This..." His voice trails off for a moment as he savors the anticipation of her reaction. "...is called whim."
He watches her carefully, gauging her reaction as she studies the vial suspiciously. Her eyes narrow in recognition; this is the same substance she'd helped guard years ago.
Lilith swallows a heavy lump in her throat and, stepping back, speaks in an icy whisper,
"You can't do this to me! I want something real, not the fucking drugs you're giving the rest of the cultists."
There is icy anger in her gaze, but also animal fear. Lilith knows perfectly well what this powder does to people's minds. He corrupts their minds by making people do terrible things. And this is what he's offering her after all she's done in the name of his faith? "Please don't be so cruel to me," Lilith whispers in a pleading voice, looking from the bottle to Joseph.
Joseph steps closer, his gaze unyielding as he holds out the vial once more. "It's not cruelty," he says softly. "It's a gift... a chance for you to find true happiness." There is no anger or judgment in his voice; instead, there is an almost sad understanding that chills Lilith to her core.
He takes another step forward, closing the distance between them until they are barely more than arm's length apart. "Think of it this way," he whispers conspiratorially. "If you take whim... when you wake up tomorrow morning, everything will be different. You won't remember any of this... me, your past life, none of it." His eyes flicker down toward her lips before meeting hers again. "It would be as if you were born anew, free to live the life you've always wanted... with no consequences."
The words hang in the air like a promise and a threat at once; Lilith feels herself trembling under their weight. She knows that if she takes this vial, there will be no going back... but part of her wants nothing more than to escape from the nightmare that is her life now. Joseph Sid notices how she hesitates and it starts to unsettle him. He remains calm, waiting for Lilith to believe in his sweet lies, which he so diligently disguises by calling it salvation.
Lilith looks at Joseph pleadingly, not wanting to believe what is happening. "Father...please," Lilith whispers softly, hoping that he will change his mind. She just wants to burst the damn bubble and blow it to hell, but she's afraid of the consequences. Her life is full of nightmares that can get even worse... "I don't want this"
His gaze softens further, and there is sadness in his eyes now. He had hoped that she would understand; he had thought they shared something special... a bond of trust and loyalty that could not be broken. "I'm sorry, Lilith," he says gently, taking another step forward until their bodies are almost touching. "But this is for the best. You don't know what you're asking."
He holds out the vial one last time, offering it to her like a poisoned apple. In his other hand, his fingers twitch restlessly, longing to reach up and caress her cheek or brush away a stray strand of hair from her face. But he resists; Sooner or later, she will realize that she has no choice and probably never had until she started thinking about escape and betrayal.
The silence between them is almost palpable now... pregnant with tension and unspoken words. It's as if the air itself is holding its breath, waiting for her to decide the fate of them all.
With bitter tears in her eyes, Lilith reaches out a trembling hand to the bottle. She comforts herself that, at least, she will not be tormented by conscience. The way out of this nightmare becomes completely closed. Lilith has seen with her own eyes what whimsy does to people... She refuses to believe that Joseph could have done this to her. She doesn't take his lies at face value, she just wants to escape from reality...Joseph Sid is starting to lose his patience a little. He nervously unwraps the vial and drops a drop on Lilith's tongue. A pure drug. In its pure form. This is a concentrated whim without impurities. Lilith clenches her jaw tightly, feeling a wild burning sensation in her nasopharynx. Her pupils begin to expand unnaturally, Lilith's breathing becomes unbearably heavy, while she desperately tries to grab onto Joseph's shoulders to feel that reality is still in her mind and she can control it.
"Trust me," he whispers as he cradles her head against his shoulder, trying to calm her down. "This will be alright. You just have to let go." With every passing moment, the drug takes hold of her senses, making it harder for her to remember who she is or what she's been through. All that matters now is the sweet release it promises... and the voice whispering soft words in her ear as he holds her close. "Just relax," Joseph croons, rocking her gently back and forth. "Give yourself over to whim."
His fingers trail down the side of her face, tracing along her jawline and neck before coming to rest on the thin strap of her dress. He hesitates for a moment, wondering if he should push things further... But then decides that there's no need rush things now. They have all night to play their games, after all. With a contented sigh, Joseph leans in closer, nuzzling his nose against the top of her head and breathing deeply, savoring the scent of her hair and skin...and the intoxicating mixture of fear and surrender that fills the air between them.
Lilith grits her teeth, struggling to keep herself together. This can't be happening...She feels as if she is being torn apart by some invisible force. Her chest heaves violently and a hoarse groan escapes her lips. She doesn't want to let go...she doesn't understand why everything is so foggy, why her senses are betraying her...Her hands claw at Joseph's shoulders as if she were trying to find something solid to hold on to in this unfamiliar world.
He tightens his grip, pressing their bodies even closer together as he continues to whisper soothing words in her ear. His other hand comes up now, cupping her cheek before moving lower still, tracing the line of her jaw and down over her collarbone. "That's it," he murmurs, letting out a shuddery breath as his fingers graze the swell of her breast. "Just relax and let go... everything will be alright."
As she surrenders to the drug and her resistance begins to wane, Joseph feels a thrill coursing through him, an exhilaration that makes it hard for him to think clearly. He knows what he's doing is wrong...but damn does it feel good. His lips brush against her temple before traveling higher still, coming to rest next to her ear as his hips rock forward involuntarily, pressing their groins together in a silent demand. "Let go," he breathes, his voice thick with desire and power. "Let me take you where you belong."
Her resistance is getting weak...She's losing control of herself...Lilith lets out a strangled moan as her body completely betrays her, arching towards the touch, seeking more contact with Joseph Sid's skin. She doesn't know why she feels this way...Why does he affect her so much?..It's like he has a key to some secret part of her...The secret that she needs to reveal in order to find peace and happiness again. Her fingers cling to his shoulders, digging into his flesh, as if she could tear him apart and keep him with her forever. "Father... please," Lilith whispers hoarsely with a sluggish tongue, not understanding the meaning of these words.
His fingers move faster now, running through her hair as he tilts her head back, exposing her throat. His lips find the soft skin there, sucking and nibbling as he murmurs something into her neck , "Father saved you, honey. God saved you."
His other hand descends even lower, lifting the hem of her dress and slipping under the thin lace of her underwear. She feels his fingers wrap around her aching organ, filling her with his touch. With a low moan, Joseph thrusts two fingers deep into her and begins to move his hips to the beat.
"Let go",
He whispers roughly, biting her earlobe before kissing her cheek.
"Give me everything... Show me who you really are."
His free hand rises to cup her breast once more, rolling the nipple between his thumb and forefinger as he pushes harder, deeper.
With every move, he pushes her further into oblivion, closer to the edge of sanity, where she could finally find peace...and acceptance into the bosom of society. But whether it's salvation or a curse remains to be seen.
With each thrust of his fingers and every sucking kiss on her skin, Lilith feels as if she's being dragged deeper into a world where nothing makes sense anymore. Her body is aflame with desire, her mind consumed by the need for more... but there's something else too. Something darker. She can feel it clawing at the edges of her consciousness, demanding to be set free. It doesn't matter that she knows this feeling isn't real; that it's all just a side effect of the whim. All that matters is the raging fire burning within her.
As Lilith loses herself in pleasure, Joseph watches her with a mix of triumph and trepidation. He knows that he has found the key to her heart... but he can't help but wonder what will happen when she regains control of herself. Her body arches upwards, seeking his touch as her moans fill the air between them. His fingers move faster now, pushing deeper and harder, determined to claim every inch of her.
As he feels her tense and shudder beneath him, Joseph's heart races wildly with anticipation. This is it... the moment when she surrenders completely. He pulls his fingers free, watching as they glisten with her essence. And then, still thrusting against her, he guides himself into position, aligning their bodies before pushing forward with a groan of relief and desire.
Their hips move in perfect rhythm now, driving them both towards completion. Lilith's lips part as she gasps for air, her eyes squeezed shut against the overwhelming sensations coursing through her body. With each thrust, Joseph feels like he's moving closer to something he never expected...and yet it feels so right.
"Let go," he whispers hoarsely into her ear. "Just let go and give in..."
Lilith's brain is poisoned by the effect of bliss, which increases every sensation tenfold. No one knows when the effect will release her and what will happen after that. For Lilith, only this moment is important, Lilith's moans are getting louder and louder with each thrust. She desperately tries to grab onto his shoulders to keep from falling, feeling her body as if it were a piece of fluff in the wind. Lilith feels a wave of orgasm begin to slowly spread over her limp body, causing it to tremble convulsively. She slowly rolls her eyes to the back of her head and she whispers only one word "yes" between moans for an eternity.
The feel of Lilith's body wrapped around him is almost too much to bear as he drives into her again and again, her muscles clenching tightly with each thrust. He can feel her orgasm building beneath him, can sense the change in her movements as she gives in to pleasure. His own release is close now... impossibly close.
"Yes," he gasps, burying his face against her neck as he pushes harder, faster. "Give it to me..."
Their bodies meet with one final thrust, their rhythm disrupted for a heartbeat before exploding outwards in a shuddering release of pleasure. Lilith's limbs go slack around him as her orgasm crests and ebbs, leaving them both gasping for air.
When they catch their breath, Joseph rolls off her and collapses on the floor next to her bed in her small house with a heavy groan. His chest heaves as he tries to regain control of his racing heart; beads of sweat stand out on his forehead and trickle down between his shoulder blades.
Lilith collapses back onto the bed, her body spent and shuddering with aftershocks of pleasure. The room spins wildly around her as she struggles to catch her breath; images flicker and fade before her eyes like a bad dream. It's only when they linger too long that she realizes it wasn't a dream...it was reality. And in that moment, the enormity of what has just happened threatens to crush her beneath its weight.
Time seems to slow to a crawl as Joseph watches Lilith recover from their shared passion. A mix of triumph and uncertainty fills him as he takes in her mussed hair, parted lips, and flushed cheeks. She looks...different now, somehow. Not just because of the drug's effects, but because a piece of her has been stripped away.
As she begins to stir, Joseph takes a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. "Lilith," he says softly, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from her face. "Are you alright?" His gaze searches hers for any sign of what she's feeling...what she might be thinking.
But the look in her eyes tells him everything he needs to know. She has surrendered, in more ways than one. And with that realization comes a new sense of power...and responsibility. He knows now that there is no going back for either of them; they are forever changed by what happened here tonight. The question remains: will it be for the better? Only time will tell.
"I am... I do not know."
Lilith whispers faintly, staring at the ceiling with unseeing eyes.
"It feels like..."
She falls silent, unable to find the words to describe what she feels. Angry. Raped. Released. All these things and more are entwined in a knot that twists her insides in agonizing spasms. She's starting to hate herself for doing this. She thought it would help her find a way out of an endless nightmare, not a new entrance into it.
"I understand," Joseph says quietly, sitting up on the bed beside her. He puts an arm around her shoulders, offering what little comfort he can. "It's a lot to take in." There is genuine sympathy in his voice; he truly does feel for her, even though he knows that this was all part of his plan from the beginning.
"Do you remember anything from before...?" He trails off, not sure if he should bring it up. Part of him wants to erase that memory completely, while another part needs her to understand what she's become a part of now. The choice is difficult and fraught with consequences; no matter which path he takes, someone will be hurt in the end.
Lilith looks at him with haunted eyes, considering his question before slowly shaking her head. "Only fragments... dreams..." She swallows hard, trying to steady her voice. "What happened tonight... it feels like I've lost a part of myself." Tears well up in her eyes and begin to trickle down her cheeks. "I don't know what to do now, Joseph... I feel so confused..."
Lilith nervously wipes her tears and doesn't know what to do at all... he... How could he do this to her. Lilith begins to feel panic building in Hera, a lump of mixed emotions getting stuck in my throat. God... This nightmare has gotten even worse. Lilith forces herself to look at Joseph and whispers bitterly,
"can we at least forget and not tell anyone about what happened?" The thought of someone from the congregation finding out about this makes Lilith even more furious and desperate. "It shouldn't happen again," she whispers more to herself than to Joseph. At least Lilith temporarily changed her mind about running away, because of the newfound situation.
Joseph studies Lilith's face carefully before answering. "I understand your concern," he says slowly, "but I think it's best if we don't forget this night entirely. There are lessons to be learned from it...for both of us." His hand on her shoulder squeezes reassuringly. "And as for telling anyone else..." He pauses, considering his words. "I can promise you that I won't say anything if you don't want me to. It would break my heart to think that this has made things worse for you."
His expression softens and he looks away for a moment, unable to meet her eyes as he says, "But... I also need your understanding, Lilith. I did what I thought was best for everyone involved. I'm asking you not to judge me too harshly." There is an almost pleading note in his voice now; he hates being put in this position, but knows that he has no choice if they are ever going to move past this together.
Lilith stares blankly at the ceiling and whispers, "I understand. I won't tell anyone either." She looks at Joseph with a determined look and doesn't know what else to say. At least she just needs to get some sleep and come to her senses. To be alone, or perhaps to be distracted by empty chatter with other sectarians...
"Thank you, Lilith.",
He speaks softly.
"I appreciate your trust in me."
His fingers absently run through her hair, brushing it away from her face.
"I know it was hard for you to take it in... If you ever want to talk about this or anything else, for that matter, my door is always open."
There is an unspoken promise behind his words; an understanding that what unites them now goes beyond the simple dynamics of the relationship between a cult leader and a sectarian. They are connected by secrets and desires, pain and pleasure... and no matter how much he wants to deny it, some part of him enjoys the power he has over her. He knows that this newfound bond will change them both forever, but for now... he is content to just enjoy the moment. Putting on a linen shirt, Joseph Sid gets up and, after taking one last look at Lilith, leaves her house. He goes into the chapel, making his way to his private chambers. On the way, he talks to his flock as if nothing had happened, convincing them of the correctness of the actions of the flock.
Lilith spends the rest of the night in tears, not even wanting to leave her house. The next morning, the door to her house opens abruptly, and an agitated Jim appears on the threshold with a rifle at the ready. Lilith rubs her eyes sleepily and whispers hoarsely:,
"What do you want?"
Jim is slightly surprised by her depressed state, but hesitates to ask for details. Jim knows that Lilith has been acting strangely lately.
"Dad's packing us up, we're going to take over the farm, hurry up, lady."
Jim quickly gives the command. Lilith gets out from under the covers with a growl of displeasure and begins to put on her military uniform with the usual military ease. Taking her walkie-talkie and rifle, Lilith follows Jim to where the entire congregation gathers to hear Joseph Sid's promising speeches. Lilith feels a lump in her throat, she starts having a panic attack when she thinks again about how many lives she will take with her today...
As Lilith walks among the gathered followers, Joseph takes the opportunity to discreetly approach her. He moves with the confident grace of a predator stalking its prey, eyes fixed on hers as he circles around until they're standing side by side.
"You look... different today," he whispers in her ear. "Stronger." His hand comes to rest on her shoulder again, a light squeeze that both comforts and commands. "Don't forget what you are. What we are."
There is a challenge in his words, a reminder of their shared destiny. Lilith tenses at the contact, but doesn't pull away. She knows that Joseph Sid will not let her go so easily; that he has bound her to him far more deeply than she ever imagined possible.
As they listen to Joseph give his final words of encouragement before sending the faithful off to war, Lilith can't help but wonder what comes next...for both of them. She takes a deep breath and steels herself against whatever challenges lie ahead, knowing that there is no turning back now. Not for her, nor for the world they are about to shape.
Lilith turns to face him with her head held high, meeting his gaze. "I'm fine." She whispers in reply, voice barely above a whisper. "I can do this. I will not disappoint you." The words taste bitter in her mouth but she forces them out anyway. She can feel the weight of everyone's expectations on her shoulders and knows that failing them is no longer an option.
"Good," he says, his voice rough with emotion as he studies her face. "Because I need you to lead them. To show them the way." He pauses for a moment, searching for the right words before continuing, "They look up to you now, Lilith... more than ever. You are their beacon of hope in these dark times."
His hand squeezes her shoulder gently, reassuringly, before moving away. It's a subtle reminder that she is still his protégé; even if she no longer wears the collar, his influence over her remains. She nods slowly, understanding the message loud and clear.
Lilith goes to her SUV, where Jim and the rest of the cultists are already waiting for her. Clutching the steering wheel tightly, Lilith takes one last look at Joseph and takes off with a growl of the engine. Jim looks at Lilith sideways all the way, not knowing if there's any point in talking to her right now. He squeezes her hand tightly on the steering wheel and says in a reassuring tone, "Don't relax, Lilith. We have to do this." A bitter laugh escapes Lilith's lips, but she doesn't answer anything. It's time she makes her way to the farm, blood and screams flashing through her memories, preparing her for what's next. Even when Joseph is not around, she feels his shadow hanging over her, whispering words of farewell.
As Lilith and the others drive away, Joseph watches them disappear into the distance with a mix of pride and regret. He knows that he has changed her life forever; given her new purpose...and taken something precious from her as well. It's a bitter price to pay, but one he believes is necessary for the greater good.
With a sigh, Joseph turns away from the sight, walking back towards his chambers. He has preparations of his own to make; tomorrow will be a day of war and bloodshed, and he must be ready to lead his flock through it all. But as he moves amongst his people, offering words of encouragement and support, there's an emptiness in his heart that no amount of ceremony or duty can fill.
He wonders if one day they will understand...if they will forgive him for what he has done. Or perhaps it doesn't matter; perhaps the only forgiveness that truly matters lies within themselves.
Lilith gets to the farm and starts giving orders. Using conventional tactics, she begins to take people hostage and manipulate their minds, attracting them to the sect. Her heart is heavier than ever before. The cultists begin to smash up the farm, taking food and ammunition from the people who opposed them. Lilith knows that this is wrong, that it can't go on like this anymore, but she can't get distracted. She clutches a rifle with her bloody hands and, towering over the farm, hoists a flag with the symbols of the sect as a sign of capture. Picking up a walkie-talkie, Lilith whispers in a trembling voice,
"Reception. Father. The farm has been cleared and captured, we are waiting for further instructions."
A smile touches the corners of his mouth as he hears Lilith's words over the radio. "Excellent work, my child," he says softly, his voice filled with pride and admiration. "Now it begins." He pauses for a moment before continuing, voice lowered still further so that only she will hear him. "Tonight, we shall celebrate our victory. Tomorrow, the world will change...forever."
His words send shivers down Lilith's spine; she can almost feel the weight of what they have done pressing down upon her shoulders. But still, there is something inside her that craves more. More power, more control...more of him. She nods once in acknowledgement, feeling a warmth spread through her as if his words were a physical touch. "Yes, Father," she replies, her voice firmer now. "I understand."
Lilith climbs down from the flagpole, the flag clutched tightly in her hands like a battle standard. She knows that from this moment on, there is no going back. The world has changed; they have changed it. And whether for better or worse, they are all now bound together by blood and steel...and by him.
When Lilith and the rest of the cultists return to Joseph Sid's outpost, Lilith nervously wipes her tears with her bloody hands. Something inside her is being torn apart by the second. The sectarians begin to celebrate their achievement with shouts of victory and prayers, praising Joseph Sid. Lilith stands on the sidelines, watching what is happening with a heartbreaking pain in her heart. She goes to Joseph's chambers, taking off her rifle and body armor at the same time. She timidly approaches him when he is alone.
"Father... please... I need a whim."
Lilith whispers in a pleading voice, not daring to meet his gaze. She wants to erase this day from her memory, at least for a while. She needs this powder, she needs a whim.
"A what?" Joseph says, turning to face her with an expression of confusion. "I don't understand." He hesitates, studying her features closely. Her usually fierce gaze is subdued and her posture slumped; there's something off about the way she holds herself. Something...vulnerable.
"Are you alright?" he asks softly, stepping closer to her. "You seem...distraught." His eyes flick over her body, taking in the bloody clothes and armor she's just removed. A wave of protectiveness rises up within him; an urge to comfort her, to make everything better again.
She looks so much like he did when they first brought her back from that camp...lost and confused, with nothing left but rage and pain to sustain her. He can't help but wonder how many more like them there are out there, waiting to be found...and changed forever. It's a weighty thought; one that leaves him feeling even more conflicted than before.
Lilith swallows a heavy lump in her throat and speaks more insistently, mincing every word "Father, please... I need a whim." Lilith looks up at him with her heavy gaze, which speaks of an ardent need to escape from harsh reality. Her body is trembling slightly with emotion and anticipation of a high. She wants to feel it again, at least for a little while. She needs a whim, she needs this powder.
He studies her face for a long moment before answering. "Lilith," he says softly, reaching out to gently cup her cheek in his hand. "I understand what you need. But I can't just give this to you whenever you ask." His voice is stern, but not unkind; it carries the weight of responsibility and concern for her wellbeing that she seems to have forgotten in her desperation.
"You know how important it is," he continues. "How addictive. It can't become a crutch...it can't be used as an escape." His thumb traces softly over her lower lip, drawing a shiver from her. "Not when we have so much work to do."
Her gaze drops, but she doesn't pull away from his touch. He can see the conflicting emotions warring in her eyes; the need for oblivion battling against the desire for his approval and understanding. And suddenly, he knows what he has to do.
"All right," he says softly. "But only this once...and only a small dose." He pulls a vial from his pocket, holding it out to her. It glints in the light, promising escape and oblivion with every drop. But it also carries the weight of consequences; not just for Lilith,
Lilith's eyes widen with hope as she takes the vial from his hand, trembling slightly. She nods gratefully, tears of relief streaming down her cheeks. "Thank you, Father," she whispers hoarsely. She quickly turns around and disappears into one of the side rooms, closing the door behind her.
With Lilith taken care of, Joseph turns his attention back to the matters at hand. It has been an eventful day indeed; one that will undoubtedly change things for everyone involved. And while he can't help but feel a twinge of regret over what he had to do to her, he also knows that it was necessary. For their cause; for her own sake, even if she can't yet see it.
His gaze drifts absently towards the door leading into Lilith's private quarters, his mind filled with memories and speculations about what might happen next. His heart aches for her, but he also knows that he must be strong; unyielding in his support of their shared vision...no matter what it costs them both.
As the celebrations continue throughout the outpost, Joseph finds himself growing more and more distant, lost in thoughts of what the future holds. It's a heavy burden to bear; one that grows heavier still with every passing moment. But he has always been willing to make sacrifices for what he believes in...and tonight, he realizes that those sacrifices are only just beginning.
When Lilith finally emerges from the side room after what feels like an eternity, she is a changed person. Her movements are languid, her eyes heavy-lidded and glazed over. She looks around, unsure of what to do next but knowing that Joseph Sid is watching her intently. Slowly, Lilith walks over to him, sits down beside him and rests her head on his shoulder. Her weight feels like lead against his armor-clad body.
He stiffens slightly at her touch; it both comforts him and awakens feelings he thought long since buried. It reminds him of the night they first came together...how much they've changed each other since then. His hand comes to rest on her shoulder, gently squeezing in response.
"You look...better," he says softly, his voice thick with unspoken words. "I knew that taking the whim would help." He hesitates for a moment before continuing, "But remember what we talked about earlier. We can't let this become a crutch; something we use to escape from our responsibilities..."
Her hair smells of lavender and blood as it tickles his neck. The feel of her skin against his own sends shivers down his spine. His resolve begins to weaken; he finds himself wondering what it would be like if things were different...if they didn't have all these responsibilities weighing them down...
He takes a deep breath and tries to focus on the task at hand, on leading their flock through the dark times that lie ahead. It's not easy; with Lilith sitting so close, her body pressed against his, it's hard to think of anything but the heat between them. But he knows that they can't afford such distractions anymore...not
Lilith looks at him with glazed eyes, not understanding a word of what he says. Cheerful music and noisy dancing barely reach Lilith's ears. She bites her lower lip and her hands wilfully caress his body, sending a sweet shiver. She feels so good under this drug, but she wants to feel even better. Lilith gently kisses his neck and whispers incoherently and hoarsely, "I want you... please... again... father"
The feel of her lips against his skin sends a shiver through him, heightening the sensations he's already struggling against. Her words slur together, making it difficult for him to understand what she's asking...but there's no mistaking the desire in her voice. The need.
He glances around quickly, taking inventory of their surroundings; they're relatively alone at the moment. It wouldn't be wise for anyone else to see this... but perhaps it doesn't matter anymore. Perhaps they are beyond caring what others might think or say.
His hand moves from her shoulder to her thigh, squeezing gently. "Lilith," he whispers, voice rough with desire, "we shouldn't..." But even as he says it, his free hand finds its way beneath her shirt, teasing at the skin of her stomach, drawing her closer still.
Her lips find his neck again, kissing and suckling with a desperation that mirrors his own. He can feel her trembling against him; she's so close to losing control...and he wonders if perhaps it would be better for both of them if they just let go. For tonight, at least.
Lilith closes her eyes as he touches her like this. The whim makes everything so intense, so real... She arches her back when he touches her skin, moaning softly into his neck. Her hands move up and down his chest, feeling the warmth beneath his armor. Lilith has never felt anything like this before; she wants more of it, needs more...
His heart races in time with hers as he presses closer against her, feeling the heat of their bodies meld together. His hand slips underneath her shirt, finding warm skin and muscle before moving higher still, tracing patterns across her stomach, down her chest... over a nipple hardening beneath his touch.
"Lilith," he whispers hoarsely against her ear, "I want you too..." He pulls back just enough to look into her eyes and sees the same desire reflected there. It's like looking into a mirror; seeing himself as she truly is...despite all that has come before.
Without another word, he stands, lifting her effortlessly in his arms. She gasps at the sudden movement, arching her back when their hips grind together in response. His lips find hers then, hungry and possessive; she moans into his mouth as they stumble deeper into the shadows of the room. The world fades away, leaving only this... this perfect moment where everything is possible and nothing else matters.
With a growl, he spins them around until she's pinned against the wall, one hand gripping her hair tightly while the other drags down her center before cupping her intimately. She gasps as he thrusts forward, taking her roughly...
Her breathing stops when she feels him completely filling her. She digs her nails into his shoulders, arching her back as he penetrates deeper into her with each thrust. At his whim, everything becomes so pleasant, so intense... Her body instinctively reacts to his touch, and she screams when pleasure overwhelms her. His every touch feels like a brand burned into her skin. Lilith closes her eyes from dizziness, while her moans mix with her heavy breathing. "Yes," she whispers an infinite number of times with every sigh and groan.
Her body writhes against his, clawing at him with desperation as her voice fills the air around them. He growls low in his throat, driving harder into her, feeling the tension coiling tight within her unravel with every thrust. It's as if they have become one; their bodies moving in perfect harmony despite everything that stands between them. The world fades away, leaving only this moment... this connection that transcends all boundaries.
His hand moves up to cup her breast, squeezing roughly through the fabric of her shirt before tugging at her nipple until she cries out again. Her sounds spur him on, driving him deeper still as he takes what he wants without remorse or regret. For tonight, they are free; unbound by duty or guilt...and he intends to make the most of it while he can.
With one final thrust, his hips jerk forward, pushing deep inside her as he cries out in release. His body trembles and shudders against hers as wave after wave of pleasure washes over him. He holds her tightly against the wall, refusing to let go until every last bit of tension has been spent between them. When at last he pulls back, leaving her gasping for breath against the cool stone behind her, he knows that what
When at last he pulls back, leaving her gasping for breath against the cool stone behind her, he knows that what they have just shared can never be undone. His heart races wildly in his chest as he looks down into her dazed eyes, seeing reflections of himself there even as she tries to focus on him. It's a sobering thought; one that brings with it both elation and trepidation.
He brushes a strand of hair from her face, his fingers trembling slightly against her warm skin. "Lilith," he whispers hoarsely, "I... I don't know what to say." It feels strange to admit that even to himself; after all they've been through, there should be nothing left unspoken between them. But then again, perhaps this moment has changed everything. Taking a deep breath, Joseph pulls away slowly, giving her space even as he aches to stay close.
Lilith blinks several times, trying to focus on his face. She swallows hard, meeting his gaze, her heart beating faster than ever.
"Me too...",
She whispers softly. Her fingers lightly touch the bare skin between their torsos; it feels hot and wet from where he touched her so roughly. Lilith staggers, picks up her things and walks unsteadily, not understanding the way, to her house. She feels so elated, not even knowing what they've done again. Entering her lonely house, Lilith falls on the bed and instantly falls asleep, holding in her hands a pendant with the emblem of the cult, which she accidentally tore off Joseph in a fit of passion.
His chest feels tight as he watches her stagger away, the emotions coursing through him making it difficult to breathe. He should go after her; make sure she's all right... But what would that accomplish? They have already crossed a line tonight that cannot be uncrossed. Perhaps for now it is best that they part ways, at least until they can both sort out their feelings and figure out where they stand with one another.
He takes a deep breath, turning back toward the revelry still going on around them, but unable to truly focus on anything beyond the sweet sting of desire still burning in his veins. For tonight, he will pretend that none of this happened...but somewhere deep inside him, he knows that it has changed everything.
And tomorrow, when the world wakes up to a new day dawning beneath the shadow of their dark plans, they will all have to face the consequences. Together.
Lilith tosses and turns in her bed, still feeling him inside of her as she dreams. Her fingers idly stroke the pendant she was holding earlier, feeling its weight and texture against her skin. It's warm from where her body has been pressed against it for hours now. She can see his face in her mind's eye, feel his touch all over her body. She moans softly into the pillow, wishing he were still here with her.
Her dreamlike whispers waft across the room, reaching out to him even as she sleeps. He can't help but feel a sharp pang in his chest; it's clear that their time together has left its mark on her. And him as well. As he stands there watching her toss and turn, he finds himself struggling with the urge to go to her, to comfort her...to tell her everything that's been running through his mind since they shared this night together.
But he knows better than that. For now, it is best that they keep their distance; find some semblance of order in their chaotic world before trying to sort out what this all means for them. He takes a deep breath and turns away, making his way back out into the celebration once more.
Lilith moans softly again, her fingertips tracing circles around the pendant as she drifts deeper into sleep. Her dreams are filled with vague memories of their passionate meeting earlier; the heat of his body pressed against her, the feeling of his movements inside her...it All of this combined creates a heady mix that leaves her in pain and need. Lilith can only hope that she will withstand the consequences when the drug releases her and she will have to face the harsh reality that Joseph created for her.
He paces restlessly through the party, unable to focus on anything but the thoughts swirling around in his head. Lilith's whispered moans haunt him like a phantom, reminding him of their brief, passionate encounter earlier. He knows that he can't just ignore what happened between them; it has changed everything. But he also knows that now isn't the time to dwell on it. They have work to do.
His steps eventually lead him outside, where the cool night air washes over his skin and helps to clear his head. Looking up at the starry sky, he finds solace in the constellations; their endless patterns reminding him of the larger scheme of things. They serve a purpose beyond themselves, just like Lilith and everything else in his life.
He sighs heavily and leans against one of the outer walls, closing his eyes for a moment to collect his thoughts. He needs to regain his focus; rebuild the mental wall that has been crumbling ever since she stepped back into his life. It won't be easy, but he knows what he must do. For now, all he can do is wait and hope that time will heal their wounds...and perhaps someday, somehow, they might find a way to have the peaceful future they both desire.
Early in the morning, Lilith wakes up to an insistent knock on the door. Jumping out of bed, Lilith immediately falls and stumbles to open the door. Jim stands on the threshold, a little discouraged by her condition.
"Lilith?"
He asks incredulously,
"What's wrong with you? you look... It's strange.",
Jim looks at Lilith incredulously, noting the deep bruises on her thighs. Lilith just smiles wearily, not daring to say anything , "I look like I usually do, Jim."
Lilith snaps back. Jim awkwardly scratches the back of his head and says,
"Father wants to see you. Hurry up."
After looking back one last time, Jim leaves his house. Lilith looks in horror at her hand, which is tightly clutching a painfully familiar pendant. She doesn't remember the events of last night very well, and it makes cold sweat stand out on her back.
"Oh my God..."
Lilith growls, starting to pack up.
When she finally appears before him, he can see the strain etched into her features; the exhaustion and fear that radiate from every pore. Her eyes are bloodshot and bruised, mirroring the marks on her body that speak of their night together. It's a stark reminder of everything they've done...and everything that still needs to be done.
He takes a deep breath, steadying himself before speaking. "Lilith," he begins quietly, his voice gentle despite the hard edge of steel beneath it. "You look... not well."
She flinches at his words, but says nothing in reply. He sighs heavily and continues, "I understand that last night was... difficult for you. But we must put it behind us now. There is too much at stake."
Her lips part as if she's about to speak, but then she hesitates, glancing away uneasily. He takes this as his cue and presses on. "I know that you are feeling the effects of the drug I gave you last night," he says carefully. "It was necessary...but it will pass soon enough."
Lilith silently nods in agreement, not looking at him. Her body is filled with heaviness, and she can't focus on anything but the pain. She wonders how real this is, and how much is a side effect of the drug. She bites her lip hard, trying to focus on what Joseph Sid is saying. "I don't remember well," Lilith admits with a huge lump in her throat. She just wants to find a way out of this nightmare. She can no longer torture and kill people on Joseph's orders, for the sake of blind faith. Everything has become too confusing. She wants to be away from all this.
"I know it must seem that way.",
He says softly, reaching out to take her hand in his.
"But believe me when I say it's real... and what we are doing here is vital to our survival."
He gently squeezes her hand before releasing it and stepping back.
"I know you've been through a lot in the last few days."
He continues, trying to keep his voice steady.,
"but we're doing this for faith and salvation, Lilith. We have to be stronger than who we are." Joseph steps back, unable to bear her gaze and says with a wave of his hand, "Go rest, think about what I was talking about here."
Lilith's eyes glisten with tears as she nods mutely, unable to find the strength to speak. She turns around and hurries away before anyone can see her like this; so weak and vulnerable. As she makes her way back to her room, she silently vows that she will not let herself be used by Joseph Sid or anyone else for their twisted agenda. There must be another way...
He watches her go with a heavy heart, feeling a sense of loss that goes beyond just the physical. He knows they have crossed an uncrossable line now...but he can't bring himself to regret it entirely. For all that has happened between them, there is still something more; some connection that transcends everything else.
His gaze drifts away from where she disappeared, focusing instead on the task at hand. There are whims yet to administer, bodies to cleanse...and faith to uphold. But deep in his heart, he wonders if perhaps it might not be easier just to let it all fall apart around them; to see where Lilith's newfound strength and independence lead her.
Perhaps then they could finally find some sort of peace...even if it meant losing each other in the process.
After cleaning herself up, Lilith leaves her house and sits on a bench, lighting a cigarette with trembling fingers. She feels herself breaking inside, her thoughts like a stream of dirty water enveloping her mind. Run away. But how? She distracts herself with empty chatter with Jim, hoping that at least a little distraction. Their dialogue is interrupted by an incomprehensible noise and all the sectarians begin to fuss when a large SUV with a cult symbol drives into the chapel territory. Lilith looks at Jim dumbfounded and asks, "Who could it be?". Jim shrugs slightly and replies, "This is Jacob Sid, Joseph's older brother." Jim pauses, looking at the SUV and adds in a whisper, "Joseph is God's dandelion compared to him. Jacob is much tougher and more demanding than his younger brother. So, Lilith, you better stay out of his sight."
His heart stops when he sees a familiar symbol emblazoned on the side of the SUV; the same image that has been stamped on every paraphernalia and clothing belonging to his followers for years. Jacob Sid is unlike his younger brother in many ways, and perhaps that's what makes him so dangerous. Where Joseph is calculating and reserved, Jacob is impulsive and unpredictable; he is more likely to lash out when he feels threatened or disrespected. He watches as his brother gets out of the SUV, dressed in a military uniform that highlights his character. Joseph comes forward with open arms to greet Jacob, "Jacob, we are always glad to see you here." He pats Jacob on the shoulder and casts a sidelong glance at Lilith, hoping she won't do anything funny.
Lilith slowly extinguishes her cigarette and digs into the bench with her whole body, wanting to merge with it and remain unnoticed. She watches with fear and incomprehensible anxiety as the cultists greet Jacob, feeling about the same as Lilith. No one knows why he came here today, but everyone is incredibly tense. The cultists line up to kiss Jacob's hand, showing their loyalty and dedication to the cause. Lilith sits numbly, unable to move, but still gets to her feet and stands at the end of the queue to follow the example of the others.
Joseph tries not to look at Lilith, keeping a non-negative expression on his face. He knows how difficult the last few days have been, but something tells him that everything will only get more difficult from now on. When the sectarians begin to disperse and the queue reaches Lilith, Jacob takes his hand behind his back and with a satisfied smile remarks, looking at Joseph, "I see our flock is growing." His cold and hard gaze glares at Lilith, but there is also something like curiosity there. Jacob comes closer and lifts Lilith's chin with his rough hand and asks with a wolfish smile, which he passes off as polite, "And what is your name?"
"Lilith Alvanders"
Lilith speaks, trying to keep her voice steady and confident, despite the fear clutching her heart. She involuntarily holds her breath, waiting for Jacob to let her go. She stares firmly into Jacob's eyes, showing no signs of weakness. She also feels Joseph's gaze on her, who silently begs her not to do anything that she will regret later.
The tension in the air is almost palpable as Jacob examines Lilith from head to toe, taking in every detail of her body. Finally, he lets go of her chin with a satisfied grunt and steps back. "Well, Lilith Alvanders," he says, his voice like gravel on stone, "I'm glad to have you here." There's an edge to his words that leaves no doubt as to what he truly means. Joseph offers Jacob his hand in greeting, hoping the gesture will deflect some of the older brother's attention from Lilith for now.
"I trust you've been brought up to speed on everything," Jacob says conversationally as they exchange pleasantries, "but just so there are no misunderstandings..." His gaze drifts briefly in Lilith's direction before fixing once more on Joseph. "...you should know that I will not tolerate any mistakes." The warning is clear and ominous, hanging like a guillotine blade above their heads.
The rest of the day passes in a flurry of activity, as Jacob begins to outline his plans for the coming weeks. Lilith stands nearby, silent and unnoticed, her thoughts whirling with fear and confusion. She can feel Joseph's eyes on her from time to time, but when she meets his gaze, there's
an expression in them that tells her he can't help her. The feeling of isolation grows within her, making it hard to breathe. As the sun begins to set over the chapel grounds, she slips away unnoticed and finds a dark corner to curl up in, and isolate herself from all this madness. Lilith lights a cigarette, nervously flicking the lighter hoping that no one will bother her.
Joseph forces himself not to look in her direction, knowing that their relationship is now in a difficult situation. And it will be even worse if Lilith flares up and starts showing her character in front of Jacob. Suddenly, an idea comes to his mind: maybe this is exactly the kind of control Lilith lacked, and maybe Jacob could help reason with and control her temper. Joseph casually asks his brother with a curious twinkle in his eyes, "What do you think of the new girl? About Lilith. In a short time, she has proved her usefulness in our business." After making sure that Jacob understands who he is talking about, Joseph continues with a heavy sigh, "Lately with her... It's not easy. More desperate measures had to be resorted to. I do not know what to do with her in general... " Joseph casts a longing and doomed look at his brother, hoping for his help in solving the problem.
"Hmm ..."
Jacob grunts thoughtfully, taking a drag on his cigar, the tip of which glows brightly in the dark.
"She definitely has a character. I can tell you that for sure."
There is a note of reluctant respect in his voice that Joseph notices and ignores.
"But what do you expect her to do?" She's not like you or me; she's never lived this life before. It takes time to form a person, you know?
Jacob pauses for a moment, carefully considering his words.
"If you want my advice, try to give her more tasks. Let her feel that her character and strength should be directed in the right direction." Noticing his brother's thoughtfulness, Jacob finally asks directly, without condemnation in his voice, "Did you have something with her?"
For a second, Joseph is annoyed by this question, but he is always honest with his brother.
"I don't know.",
— he admits dryly, examining the rosary with a crucifix in his hand,
"I gave her a 'Whim,' and it all happened by itself. It was unreal... But that's not what I would like." Joseph looks bitterly at Jacob, who only raises an eyebrow in response to his confession and adds with a heavy sigh:
"I know I made it difficult for myself, so I need your help with her."
Jacob lets out a long sigh, considering his brother's words carefully before responding. "You know that I trust you," he says finally. "But she's not like us; we have to give her some time to adapt." His voice holds the air of authority and experience that Joseph has always looked up to him for. "For now, just keep an eye on her. See if there are any signs that she's ready to take on more responsibility. In the meantime," he adds with a knowing smile, "you can spend some time with her to help smooth things over."
Joseph nods slowly, feeling a strange mix of relief and resentment washing over him. Perhaps Jacob is right; perhaps giving Lilith more responsibilities will be what she needs to find her place within their twisted hierarchy. But the thought of spending time with her, trying to explain things to her...it fills him with an almost overwhelming sense of dread.
"I'll see what I can do," he says finally, his voice sounding stronger than he feels. "Thank you, brother."
Lilith crouches in the darkness, unable to hear or see anything but her own racing thoughts. She winces when she hears Jacob's voice from afar, her body tensing up at his harsh words and the implications they hold for her future here. As soon as it becomes quiet again, she pushes herself off the ground, determined not to be defined by these people or their expectations of her. She walks slowly through the chapel grounds, trying to lose herself in the familiar sights and sounds. Finally, she reaches a small grove of trees near the edge of the forest. It's quiet here, almost peaceful, and for the first time since arriving at this place, Lilith allows herself a brief moment of calm.
Late that night, when everything has finally quieted down, Joseph finds himself unable to sleep. His mind keeps drifting back to Lilith; her bruised body, the haunted look in her eyes. He knows he should be focusing on his duties as leader, but somehow she's all he can think about.
Finally, he decides enough is enough. If Jacob believes that giving Lilith more responsibility will help her find her place within the order...well, perhaps it's worth a try. Perhaps in doing so, they might also be able to rekindle whatever spark once existed between them.
With this resolve burning brightly within him, Joseph gets out of bed and makes his way through the chapel grounds until he reaches the grove of trees where Lilith has taken refuge. He pauses for a moment, gathering his courage before stepping into the darkness, drawn irresistibly toward her like a moth to a flame.
Lilith startles when she feels someone's presence nearby, but relaxes slightly upon recognizing it as Joseph's. She turns slowly towards him, her body language still wary and defensive despite their earlier intimacy. "What do you want?" she asks hoarsely, not quite able to meet his eyes.
"I wanted to talk," he says softly, moving closer to her. "About what happened...and about where we go from here." He reaches out a tentative hand to brush a stray lock of hair from her face, and their eyes meet for the first time since last night. There's so much pain and confusion in hers that it almost breaks his heart; he can hardly bear to look at her.
"I know it must seem like I threw you into the deep end without any warning," he admits, feeling a twinge of guilt. "But I needed someone I could trust...someone who would understand." His voice trails off, and he takes a deep breath before continuing. "And now that you're here...I want to help you find your place in all this. If that means giving you more responsibilities..." He pauses, searching her face for any sign of hope or reassurance.
"Then I will do whatever it takes."
Upon hearing this, Lilith is filled with anger and pain. She's trying her best not to tear him apart right here and now.
"What do you need now?"
She growls through clenched teeth.,
"What else can I do to get you to leave me alone? I won't be able to conquer the whole world for you. Do you understand?"
tears accumulate in her eyes, which she does not let drain "I do not want to be your weapon"
His gaze softens as he takes in her pain and anger. "I understand," he says gently, reaching out to take her hand in his once more. "Believe me when I say that I never meant for things to go this far...to hurt you like this." He pauses, searching for the right words, wanting desperately to find a way to make everything okay again.
"I know it's difficult for you," he continues finally, "and I can't promise that it will get easier any time soon. But I want you to know that you are not alone in this."
"But I'm alone, Joseph! Always alone!" Lilith screams through her tears,taking short breaths, "Where are you, every time I and your sectarians hunt sinners on your orders? Eh, Father?" Lilith feels that pain and anger are about to tear her apart and without waiting for his answer, she pushes him away from her to pave the way to her house.
Her words hit home with shocking force, cutting through his carefully constructed facade of control and authority. He watches her go, helpless to stop her as she retreats into the darkness once more. For a moment, he is transported back in time, remembering how it felt when everything changed...when the weight of responsibility crushed him beneath its cold, unyielding press.
He shakes his head, trying to clear the memories from his mind and focus on the task at hand. But he can't. Every time Lilith gets out of control, he feels like the most valuable asset he has is slipping away from him. Joseph takes a deep breath, trying to calm his anger, which Lilith has caused in him with her next prank. He begins to realize that if he loses control of her, she can become his most powerful enemy... but he won't let that happen.
Lilith lies awake in her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her mind is a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions: pain, anger, confusion, and desperation. She knows that she can't go on like this; something has to change. Tears roll down her cheeks as she wonders if there's any way out of this nightmare. Every day her life here becomes more and more difficult and she no longer sees the light in this darkness.
The next morning, as Joseph is preparing for the day's activities, he pauses for a moment, considering Lilith's words from last night. He can't help but feel that she has a point; she is always alone, even when surrounded by others. Perhaps it is time to find a way to bridge that gap, to make her feel less isolated and more like a part of the community. It won't be easy, but he owes it to her - and to himself.
After attending to his duties, Joseph seeks out Lilith once again, determined to have a honest conversation with her. He finds her in the gardens, tending to a small plot of flowers that she has cultivated for herself. She looks up when she hears his approach, her eyes wary and guarded.
"Lilith," he begins gently, sitting down next to her on the garden bench, "I want to apologize for the way things have been between us. I know that it must seem like I don't care about how you feel...but that isn't true." He pauses, searching for the right words, and finally continues in a rush, "Maybe we should try to start over. Spend some time together, just talking and getting to know each other again."
Lilith looks at him suspiciously, not quite sure what to make of his sudden change in attitude. She wipes her hands on her apron before speaking. "And what would that even look like, Joseph? What do you want from me anyway?" Lilith cautiously steps back, not daring for him to invade her personal space "If we had some kind of intimate moments, it doesn't solve anything"
He takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself before responding. "You're starting to forget who you swore to, Lilith." His tone is soft, but the threat in his voice is strongly felt. Without warning, Joseph grabs her wrist and presses her against the nearest bench with the words "You know, Lilith, your life here could be much worse" his gaze falls on her lips trembling with anger before looking deeply into her eyes "If you question my authority at least once more..." adds he is, but already hesitantly, but also firmly. He would not want to move on to worse measures... especially in relation to Lilith.
Lilith burns him with a hateful look, not showing her tears. "And what do you intend to do, Joseph? Will you drug me and fuck me again?" Lilith asks with a bitter laugh, trembling with anger and fear in equal measure, "You won't be able to find a replacement for me for this dirty job. I know this. You know it." Suddenly, she realizes that perhaps this vicious circle of violence and pain will never end...
His eyes narrow dangerously as he hears her accusations, but something in her words seems to hit home. He releases her wrist with a curt nod, stepping back and taking a deep breath to regain control of his temper. "You're right," he says finally, his voice tight with barely controlled anger. "I should have never given you that Whim."
He pauses for a moment, searching for the words that will make her understand without pushing her further away. "Look," he begins slowly, "I know things haven't been easy for you since you got here...and I want to help you. But you have to trust me too. If you don't do what I ask, if you continue to defy my orders..." He trails off, unable or unwilling to finish the thought.
"I need your help, Lilith," he says at last, looking directly into her eyes. "Without it, we both know where this will end."
Lilith sits away from him and wiping away tears dryly whispers, "It doesn't matter to me how it ends... I didn't even want it to start," she looks at her shaking hands with detachment, feeling trapped from which there is no way out... "What do you want me to do this time?" Lilith asks with a heavy sigh, without looking up at him.
He takes a deep breath, trying to steady his voice. "I want you to do what I tell you," he says simply. "That's all I ask." He pauses, considering her words carefully before continuing. "But if you need some time...if there's something you want to talk about..."
He hesitates again, uncertain how she'll react to his offer. It feels like they're dancing around each other, neither one willing to give ground or take a step back.
Finally, he forces himself to meet her gaze directly. "I know it must seem hopeless right now," he says softly, "but I believe in you, Lilith. And as long as you're here...as long as we're doing this together..." His voice trails off, leaving the rest of the sentence unspoken but clear: She has a choice to make.
"I just want you to know that I don't like it as much as I think I do."
Lilith whispers dryly, looking at the flowers nearby and playing with one of them.
"Do you believe in those fairy tales where time can really change something?"
Lilith asks with a bitter laugh and adds more firmly,
"We have nothing more to talk about, Joseph."
Lilith swallows the lump in her throat and adds,
"So, what exactly should be done this time? Who should I kill? Who should I punish?"
He closes his eyes, taking a deep breath before opening them again. "I understand your pain," he says softly, his words careful and measured, "but you have to remember why we're doing this." He pauses for a moment, searching for the right words. "It isn't just about punishing people. It's about making things better. About saving souls."
He looks away briefly, his gaze fixed on something distant before returning to hers. "I know it's hard, Lilith," he says with a mixture of regret and determination, "but you are strong. Stronger than you realize. And together..." His voice trails off again, leaving the rest unspoken: An invitation, perhaps? A challenge?
"Together," he repeats more firmly, his gaze steady and unwavering, "we can make a difference."
The determination in his voice makes Lilith feel small. But she can't bring herself to believe him. It all seems like just another fairy tale told by a desperate man to keep her going on this terrible path.
He sighs heavily, looking away from her once more. "I know it's hard to believe," he admits softly, "but please try." He pauses, searching for the right words to convince her. "You are important to me, Lilith. More than you could ever imagine. And I need you...not just as a weapon, but as someone who understands what we're fighting for. As someone who can help make a difference."
He turns back to her then, his gaze steady and intense, "Please," he whispers hoarsely. "For me. For both of us."
Lilith bites her lower lip and looks down at the flower in her hands, twisting it anxiously. Her heart races with conflicting emotions; she wants to believe him, but everything inside her screams that he's lying.
He waits, holding his breath as she considers his words. He can see the conflict playing out in her eyes, the uncertainty and fear warring with the faint spark of hope that he has managed to rekindle within her. Finally, she looks up at him once more, meeting his gaze steadily.
"All right," she says softly, her voice barely audible over the sound of their beating hearts. "I'll try."