DULCE/AMEERAH'S POV

By noon, we were gathered around the round table in our safe house para planuhin kung ano ang susunod naming hakbang.

"Pinuntahan namin yung rest house nina Regina at Leith ayon sa tracking device na binigay ni Florence kay Athena... Tama si Florence. Doon nga nananatili sina Regina..." -Theo

"Talaga? Eh di tara na." -Lia

"Slow down, little dove... Yeah, doon nga sila nakatira... pero wala nang mga tao... The whole place was raided, all the henchmen were dead, the house was basically turned upside down... Wala na doon sina Regina at Leith." -Athena

"Ano??" -Lia

"Our bet is that one of the syndicates found a weak link in her inner circle and attacked her when she was vulnerable. As to who took them... Well, the list is long. Not even EllisonTech can track her." -Theo

"Well, karma's a bitch." - Athena

"Anong gagawin natin?" -Lia

"If I may?" -Helena

"Go ahead, mommy dearest." - Athena

"Magpalakas muna kayo. You need alliances and resources. Build that... dahil maaaring kayo ang susunod na target... Besides that... Regina's a strategist. She's manipulative. For all we know, sinadya nila ang nangyari so you would let down your guard." -Helena

"Tama siya. Saan tayo kukuha nun, ma?"

"I think kilala mo na kung kanino tayo kukuha... Kay Damon O'Sullivan." - Helena

"Oh dear, not that a**h*le."

"Hey, he's good in bed." - Athena

"You slept with him??"

"Yeah. I mean the accent is an instant panty-dropper. We didn't work out though. He was too... jerky for my taste. I like some jerks but just on a certain level. Not my type" - Athena

D@mn... I don't blame her but Damon is a goddamn low. Anyways, get it girl... 'Cause I sure won't. On a side note, Clarke seemed to react with a bitter expression. I don't know if I'm overthinking, but something is just off with them. I've always known they had a weird bond and I'm cool with it. I know he loves her, and I know she does too, more than they'll ever admit... but oh well, war isn't the perfect time to bring up affairs of the heart. Perhaps this is a confrontation tabled if we ever survive.

"Alam mo minsan nagtataka ako kung sino yung totoong adik sa sex, si Leith o si Athena." -Lia

"Hey! Grabe siya oh-" -Athena

You know, I love my girl Lia, but sometimes her slut-shaming is just so 20th century or older. It's ok to believe in no sex before marriage, but it's very anti-feminist to slut shame women who just enjoy such activity. I know it should be the least of my worries right now, but I'm sorry I gotta call her out and patch these two equally powerful women before I can't anymore.

"Athena is no sex addict, love. She's just a woman enjoying sex. That's not exactly a bad thing in the 21st century."

Lia just gave a small genuine smile in agreement. She doesn't say much. I mean obviously she won't change her beliefs, and that's ok. But at least now, she understands it doesn't degrade a person's value. We have that special bond where she looks up to me like her moral compass and sometimes her real talk help keeps me in check too. I wish she wasn't involved here right now because I know she's a fragile dove... but I keep faith in the strength that lies beneath the meek exterior of hers.

"And Leith is no nymphomaniac. He's nothing but another misogynistic pig preying on women. He's just a rapist objectifying women thinking it would make him man enough. No matter how much he justifies his crimes with a feigned sickness, he will never be even half the man he thinks he is. He's just a scared little boy. Take away his small dick, he's nothing. I swear to you Lia, I will make him pay for what he attempted to do to you."

"Ok lang ako, Serena. Wag mo akong alalahanin. Matatag toh, bes." - Lia

"Ameerah."

Helena smiled seeing as I am now accepting my new and true identity. I think I like it.

"The name has a nice ring to it-" - Helena

"Wait, hold on, Leith actually has a dick? I thought he didn't even have balls..." - Athena

She really interrupted a sentimental moment for that, huh. I love this b*tch. We all just laughed in agreement, even Helena, even the guys. It's the moments as these that give me hope and faith despite a war brewing. The thought of turmoil and chaos makes my stomach twirl in pain as if I were drowning in 10 feet of cold water... and then these... these absurd moments and outbursts of laughter at the most untimely of times, touches a shred of the humanity in me that died years ago. It is in small moments of solidarity as this that I believe we will make it....

KRINGGG KRINGG

My phone rang in the middle of that ridiculous spur of madness and humor, leaving everyone once more adamant, paranoid and silent, vanquishing music with the sickening winds that howl an impending doom.

"Unknown number..."

I looked at everyone seeking for approval whether I should answer or not. They all seemed to agree that I should take it so I did, and I also put it on speaker.

"Hello?"

The person on the other end of the line sounded out of breath, parang hinahabol. The signal on their side was fuzzy and unclear like radio. Now this is unsettling.

"Hello?"

I asked again rather impatiently.

"H-Hello?? Serena? Serena kailangan ko yung tulong mo please." -?

Oh my god... that's...

"LOLA??"

Lahat kami ay mukhang gulat na gulat. Honestly, I felt a twitch in my heart. I mean it felt good to know she's here, alive. I heard her voice again for the longest time. And I think Clarke noticed my relief too. Pinagmamasdan niya ako nang maigi and that kind of ... I don't know... it's complicated. At the same time, I'm devastated and mad at Lola for the lies and deceit after I let my guard down.

But what the hell is going on?? Why is she calling? Hindi ba't tumakas na toh??

"Serena? Thank god! Si Lola toh. Please listen. I need your help!" -Lola

"You didn't need my help when you escaped from the prison after I told you I'd withdraw your case. Honestly, you are just hopeless and irredeemable. You can't possibly expect me to believe you anymore, right?"

We all know I lied. I will always believe her. But I can't do this again. I have to choose me this time. I almost hung up the phone when...

"No no no, Serena wait. I didn't escape the prison. I WAS KIDNAPPED. Please you have to believe me!" - Lola

"What are you talking about?"

"Basta please, I'm in some yacht right now. Kailangan mong magmadali. I don't know how much longer I can call. Ninakaw ko lang tong cellphone. Please iligtas mo ako." -Lola

"Ok, hold on- What is going on?? If this is some sort of prank..."

"Serena, even I am confused as hell, pero kasama ko kanina sina Leith at Regina. Hindi ko alam kung bakit nandito sila pero yung dumukot samin, babae siya, h-hindi ko alam pero tinago niya yung bangkay ng asawa ni Mama--" -Lola

"Ramon..." - Helena

" P-Pinapili niya si Regina between me and Leith and she chose Leith and now they're planning to sell me into prostitution... something like magda?? Please help me, ayoko dun, PLEASE!"

"Oh my god... ang pasyon ni Magdalena. She's in real trouble." - Athena

"Wait, this doesn't make sense... Why were Regina and Leith with her? -- Why would Regina have to choose between Leith and Lola??" - Theo

"Yun nga rin yung hindi ko alam. It doesn't make sense. Please help me!" - Lola

"Ok, Lola, calm down. Keep the line open."

I signaled Athena to track the call given their new equipment sponsored by EllisonTech. Man Florence (CEO of EllisonTech) may be a b1tch but her toys are handy and accurate. Meanwhile, I grab a pen and paper to start jotting down all the notes I can gather. Maigi namang nakinig si Theo sa tawag if ever may mahagilap siya na makakatulong sa pagtunton sa kinaroroonan ni Lola.

"She's not lying. I can't pinpoint her exact location but it's true." - Theo

I nodded in response, the implication vague. He continued working on the IT along with Athena to pin her down. Honestly, that brought me more tension than relief. If she wasn't lying, it means she never betrayed me. I have no reason to hate her anymore. The reasons I have to stick with Clarke are thinning. Ugh fvck that. Later.

"What else do you remember sa taong dumukot sa inyo? Anything else na makakatulong sa amin na hanapin ka?"

"Umm... I think parte siya ng syndicate... Uhh may mga tauhan siya. Matangkad siya... Marunong siyang managalog, sigurado ako Filipina siya-- may suot siyang kwintas parang malaki and it was red and gold, it's like a dot above a 7 figure-- Uh hindi ko na alam... Basta, Serena, alam ko na papatayin niya rin sina Regina at Leith, at sigurado ako, hindi siya titigil doon. I think she's coming for you too..." - Lola

"She's part of the Fomorian council then... Only those who have a seat at the council wear sigils like that... There are about 15 people who match that quality. I'm not sure who it is... But the yachts for these types of transactions... there's usually a 5-digit code near the captain's cabin. That would help track her down." - Helena

"Lola, if it's safe, can you go look for the code?"

She agreed beneath the chaos in her head. Clarke is obviously tensed as we waited for her to go at it, as if he was still insecure of our relationship after I just banged the fvck out of him the other night. It's bizarre to see this side of Clarke. I never pegged him for the jealous type. How did I miss this? This is not the man I fell for... I guess tragedy has a way of changing people or I was too blind to see past the red flags... Anyway, it took her a while to get there but she finally responded.

"3..6..1...0--"

And just like that, her line was cut, sounds fade to distorted radio noises, a sign that she was taken... For some reason, Clarke's insecure face turned calm once more, as if he was happy of Lola's demise, his former lover, turned competition... Everyone else was just worried... Me? I'm not worried. But Helena and Lia came to my comfort as if I would be on the edge of a breakdown at any moment. Wow am I really that transparent? I guess the mask of deceit is off all the way.

"Lola?? LOLA???"

"We lost her... I'm sorry, I couldn't track her, we need more time." - Theo

"Serena..." - Helena and Lia

I mean it. I'm not worried. I am FRUSTRATED. We were so CLOSE. One digit. ONE MORE DIGIT to track her. ONE MORE DIGIT GODDAMMNIT! If this were any other circumstance, I would've just bought her freedom from that brothel shit, but we pretty much hemorrhaged our funds for EllisonTech.

"We'll find another way. We're gonna go get Regina and Leith too. We find who captured Lola, they'll lead us back to who traded her off... It should lead us back to our target."

"Of course." - Athena

"What about the plan on building up your strength? Is Lola really worth the risk?" - Clarke

Athena seemed assuring and he glared at Clarke when he seemed against saving Lola. Yes, she ruined my life. But I love her. And I love Clarke too... but honestly, when I look at him now... I see a stranger. I looked him straight in the eye and replied plainly yet firmly.

"Yes. Yes she's worth it. She matters to me, Clarke. And I love you, but I love her too, and that's not something you didn't already know. That hasn't changed. She ruined my life, yes. But now I see that she was just another pawn manipulated in a futile attempt for a much larger vendetta."

I do dare say I almost sounded flat and cold that everyone else fell silent yet no signs of approval nor disapproval. I meant everything I said. I could see the fear in his eyes, the fear that he'd lose me. And don't get me wrong, I fear I'd lose him too.

"I'm not jeopardizing the plan. We're hitting two birds in one stone. We go get Damon. The rest will follow."

"Alright, well, he has a party tonight. We'll scatter. Me and Lia will go undercover. We'll figure out how to get access to the cameras and key cards. Theo, Clarke and mommy dearest will stay in a nearby Van right outside his mansion monitoring the security footages, and breaking through Damon's firewall. Helena mother dearest, you need to make a quick and important call. Dulce, you'll pass through the back with ease and you talk him into alliance. We good?" - Athena

Wow. She really thought this through...

"Uhh, why am I talking to Damon??"

"Um 'cause he had a crush on you?" - Athena

This b*tch.

"Does he? He pretty much left me hanging 4 years ago."

"Ah Perfect! You two have history."- Athena

"Cagna."

"A femme fatale. So many men - and women - wrapped around your finger. You really are my daughter."- Helena

Cute. That didn't exactly help ease the tension with Clarke. I'll let that pass.

"Does she really have to do it? Can't anyone else do it? At wala na bang Plan B? Paano kung sumablay?" - Clarke

There he goes again.

"Do you really have to be pessimistic? Can't you shut up and stop playing the jealous boyfriend with a bruised ego right now? " - Athena

Clarke didn't have a rebuttal. Honestly, only Athena can talk to him like that and he wouldn't have anything to say back. I can't reign him in. It's like I'm always scared to hurt him.

"I mean, Damon isn't into men - or old women - no offense, mommy dearest - " - Athena

"None taken."- Helena

Offense was definitely taken.

"And my charms don't work on him anymore, so yes, Dulce has to do it. Don't worry, it's not like they have to fvck. As for plan B... you know what, you think about that. Proper delegation. You wanna be part of this team? Contribute something." - Athena

"Ok. Fine." - Clarke

That was awkward... He just agrees like a puppy. Tsk.

"Everything's settled then. Let's party."

This night is gonna be one hell of a roller coaster.

OMNISCIENT POV

That night...

Athena and Lia are inside the party, blending in the sweaty wild crowd of dancing drunk and horny folks under the disco and laser lights, and loud music. Athena was in her sequinned blue long sleeved backless dress, rocking it in her boots, her hair down in messy curls dancing with her dangling earings. Lia wore a simple emerald green glittery sleeveless heart-shaped haltered strap dress, high heels, stud diamond earring, her hair tied in a high bun as tight as her morals. Luckily, she was convinced to wear this. It wasn't exactly up to her conservative standards.

Their charms were enough to convince the guards to let them in the party, but one can ever be too careless. Synthesizing a fake ID wasn't so hard to get in. Making one to infiltrate Damon's office was another story. But it was only a matter of time they get caught and escorted out, hopefully alive. As they entered the place, they discreetly attached a piece of nanotech sponsored by EllisonTech of course, that allowed Theo to gain access to the cameras and start hacking into Damon's firewall so Dulce could go im safely without teiggering any alarms in the system.

These 2 gorgeous ladies, one anxious and the other confident, in the middle of the dance floor. Lia was dancing awkwardly, eyes roaming the guards that filled the place.

"Lia, it's a party! Cheer up! Blend in, luv!" - Athena

"Ok... ang lamig kasi dito..." - Lia

"Edi, painitin natin. C'mere, little dove." - Athena

Athena noticed her anxiety, so she pulled her close and helped her dance to the flow of the music. Her touch was all over her skin, comforting enough for Lia to finally let go of the uptight chain she's made for herself. Athena behind Lia, her mouth to her ear, nails slightly scraping her thighs while her hand was on her waist, sending chills to Lia's spine. She then nuzzled her face in Lia's neck.

"Is this ok with you, luv?" - Athena

"Y-Yeah..." - Lia

It was foreign to Lia, but somehow Athena's actions helped her relax. Her moves were more natural.

"And is Theo opposed to some experimenting?" - Athena

She asked through the earpiece. The latter who was gaining access to cameras replied as well.

"If Lia's fine with it, I'm cool." - Theo

Athena leaned in to Lia, and the latter reached back as their lips joined for a different kind of dance. It was a heated kiss, quite explorative and liberating for Lia. Safe to say, this is Lia's sexual awakening, the start of her letting go of old prejudices and her finally embracing her body.

"So?" - Theo

"Yep. She's super straight." - Athena

Lia giggled at that. She's definitely still straight but now... oh the things she and Theo could do.

Lia is now more loose. She took off her high bun and let her wavy hair free. You can do have fun while being at a mission. Dancing closely with hands all over each other, swaying synchronously, moving in the lusty rhythm, eyes locked as if tension was arising, no one would suspect these two were outsiders. Two former foes, now sisters amidst adversities. How lovely.

"What now?" - Lia

"You're gonna hate the next step..." - Athena

Athena drags Lia as if she was the drunk girlfriend - Theo is very much impressed by the way and maybe a little jealous but more proud of his girls - and they had to go to the rest room, only for Lia to vomit on the guard whilst stealing a security card Athena scanned in the EllisonTech disguised as her purse. This information was then sent to Theo to synthesize Dulce's ticket to Damon. What Athena and Lia pulled definitely raised suspicion but they are a hell of actresses... or not. They got pulled aside for inspection and I guess we can imagine how that's going - not good.

Meanwhile, Theo was in the process of breaking through the firewall, imprinting codes on a card for Damon's office, as Dulce prepped her make up - eyes a tad bit smoky yet not covering the spark in her eyes, cheeks rosy and her lip's shade nude- all perfectly blended to achieve a sweet yet seductive look. Her deadly weapons sit beneath the tight red silk dress revealing her cleavage through heart-shaped queen Anne top, beneath her renewed mask of deceit. Clarke pulled Dulce aside and cornered her for a serious conversation.

"Clarke, what are you doing?" - Ameerah/Dulce

"Just hear me out, I really need to just say this right now. I-I'll make it quick. Look, I know I haven't been the best boyfriend lately, but I love you. I love you as Serena, as Dulce, as Ameerah, all the same all these years, and I accept that you love Lola. Tanggap ko lahat. Marami mang nagbago, pero yung pagtingin ko sa'yo, hinding hindi yun magbabago. I love you. I accept all your good and bad. And I'm sure I want to be with you forever. I know it's untimely... but I need to do this now. I need you to know... I want to marry you. Marry me. Be my wife." -Clarke

"Clarke..." - Dulce/Ameerah

She was too dumbfounded for words. She didn't know how to react to that confession. Is Clarke really her soulmate? Should she say yes? She knows she doesn't want to be locked down in a marriage but this is Clarke we're talking about. What should she say?

"You don't have to say anything right now. Just, please, PLEASE, take the ring..." - Clarke

Ameerah felt backed into a corner. This is an emotional trap. But they're in a delicate situation, she couldn't risk upsetting him and ending up with a fight. This is so wrong. This is suffocating and that's not how love is supposed to be. How did they end up like this?

She can't jeopardize this mission so she took the path of least resistance, wearing that ring.

"Ok..." - Dulce

Head to head, she calmly agreed. She took the security ID from Theo and headed into the lion's den. The coast was very much clear. She effortlessly slid into Damon O'Sullivan's room. It was as if everything was so easy.

Is this a trap?

Damon was pouring himself some red, his back turned away from the door so he couldn't notice Dulce. Or Ameerah. She softly walked towards him as if an innocent lady, yet still on guard in case he was hostile.

"An Rí... " Dulce called on to him.

"Well, what a pleasant surprise, madame--?" - Damon

He definitely felt her presence. Not exactly a surprise.

"Dulce. Dulce Veleno. But you already knew that."

Though she now embraced her true identity, she figured it was wise to go by the name he recognized her, holding on to a fragment of the past.

"Well I wasn't sure if I should address you as Serena, Dulce... or is it Ameerah now?" - Damon

"I think we'll stick with Dulce Veleno. We have some unfinished business." - Dulce

"Of course. A beautiful name for a beautiful lady with a beautiful stone on her beautiful hand... who broke into my place obviously, with the help of two equally gorgeous women now escorted out of my home. Rest assured, they'll come out alive. Do you know what your name means?" -Damon

"It's Italian, for sweet poison."

Dulce was kind of stunned. She's relieved her friends are fine but damn, what is this man doing? Asking nonsense questions. He really has the time to play? Is this an interrogation of some sort? What is his angle?

Maybe the man just wants to spend some quality time with his crush, asking questions to extend their moments.

"Exactly. And do you know what my name implies?" - Damon

His point??

"An Ri. It's Irish for The King. " - Dulce

Damon walks closer to Dulce, having a better look at the dragon she is. He loved what he saw, so much so he caressed her face. His voice was almost hypnotic, his accent enough to charm any woman, but Dulce was not any woman (Damon knew this), and she was definitely not having it. She moved his hand away and snapped back.

"With all due respect, I don't have much time for pleasantries while an ally is about to lose her breath." - Dulce

He brings out this snarky side of her. He challenges her, and it pisses her off, but she needed it. This is more like her speed, the fire in her burning brighter.

At this response, Damon chuckled nefariously. Is this some sort of power play? Or was he simply amused with the presence of this woman before him? Dulce felt challenged to outwit him and his annoying charms.

Setting the wine glass on the table beside him, he focused his energy more on Dulce. She wasn't backing down without a fight. Both they're eyes were in an intense staring match throughout their banter, both too stubborn, neither would give up. They were fighters, both equally powerful, even more powerful when together.

"I like your guts. You're a brave woman. Do you know that you could've gotten killed?" - Damon

"I'll take my chances." - Dulce

"You're an outsider. Outsiders aren't allowed. But perhaps you're indeed a sweet poison no one could resist your charm. Do you wish to poison your king?" - Damon

"There is no one to poison. Anyone who calls himself the king is no true king. And need I remind you, I am not an outsider. I'm one of your ally's associate. Do you remember Regina de la Vendetta?" - Dulce

"Of course. How can I forget? The day you were with her. You were so meek and naive. So innocent and fragile. And Regina de la Vendetta, the Queen of Vengeance. What is she now? Regina del Nulla. (Queen of nothing)" - Damon

Of course he remembered. It was but a fleeting moment, yet for a scarred boy as he who grew up in the brutal mob world, the brief moment captured of someone as she who radiates such light, it was a moment of hope for him, a tap into his humanity he could barely recognize.

This was never a power play. And this was no silly crush. He doesn't just like her. He adores her. He worships her. He loves her innocence, just as he admires her feisty aura. He sees her, all of her, and he truly embraces it all. He knows she has so much to give, and so he challenges her. He spites her. He pushes her because he knows she will push back harder, and he loves it.

Damon changes her. He challenges her. Clarke and Lola are different. Lola's love is pure, yet she's too weak for her. Clarke loves her too much it's suffocating. He is uptight with his morality yet uncertain what he wants.

Damon is either the best thing for her... or the worst.

Dulce is unaware of the effect she has on him, as she usually is clueless too of her impact to several people. She sees him as an arrogant entitled asshole and she's determined to put him in his place. She's not scared to hurt his ego. It's too thick skinned to be easily bruised. Neither will go down without a fight.

"She is still your superior and any second from now, she could die. I came here on her behalf to demand the law of alliance. You need to help us save her." - Dulce

"Demand? Hm. You demand yet you are under my mercy. She is my superior and now she needs my help. I see no other superior here than myself." - Damon

He has a point.

"And I see why you're still not afforded the membership in the council. You're arrogant. You want to do things your way. Your ego is your downfall." - Dulce

Ooof burn.

"Ego is the fountainhead of human progress." - Damon

"Ayn Rand, The Fountainhead. I must say, you're a man of class to choose such reference yet still without authenticity, I'm afraid." - Dulce

Dulce could feel her body heating up with the tension. Her insides were shaking, not of fear but excitement. She hates his guts, but this savage side of her is a beast she hasn't unleashed in a while, in the efforts of pleasing Clarke riding up his high moral horse. This side that isn't driven by impulse and anger, but a side that is cunning, shameless, and true. She's getting her mojo back, thanks to Damon.

"Do not act as if your master is any different as I am. Regina defied Alphonso because she wants revenge done her way. She was warned of the costs and now she is paying it." - Damon

Perhaps what Dulce said struck a nerve or the tension was just too much, enough for him to break the staring contest first and turn his back on her, and walk away. This isn't like Damon to give up or walk away from a fight with anyone. But then again, Dulce isn't just anyone. He was used to getting his way, but not with Dulce. She is putting him in his place.

"Damon O'Sullivan, do not turn your back on me!" - Dulce

I did say she is putting him to his place. When she retorted, he instantly turned back to her and walked close to Dulce, so close they were breathing each others' air.

"Do not call me by my real name. Who do you think you are?" - Damon

Well, someone is triggered. He's not mad she's winning over him. He's impressed... but maybe his real name reminds him of pain. She crossed a line there. But his awe towards her is not diminished any less.

"I am an ally. And we are both under the Fomorian code. I demand the law of alliance." - Dulce

"You are not part of the European division." - Damon

Technicalities. Tsk tsk.

"My mother is. By virtue of heritage, I am now a part of your division." - Dulce

"Regina is not your mother." - Damon

"I wasn't talking about her. Morte Veloce is dead. Thanks to Signora Fenice who is now the head of Licani Sotterranei (Underground Lycans), making her, and thereby me as well, officially a part of the European division again." - Dulce

Again, technicalities... This is the important call Helena had to make. In Veloce's absence, the pack was left unattended. With her remaining power, she sought control to widen her reach.

"Regina betrayed you and yet you wish to save her still?" - Damon

"She saved me. She dressed me. She gave me a name. She made me a strong woman. For a fleeting moment, she was a mother to me in her own twisted ways." - Dulce

"Which wouldn't have been necessary if she didn't betray you." - Damon

"Then I wouldn't have met my real mother. Some things needed to be done the hard way." - Dulce

"Is that so? You will pay the price no matter the cost?" - Damon

"No matter the cost." - Dulce

She was firm, and she looked, him straight in the eye, once more renewing the staring match, deep brown eyes colliding with his tantalizing blue eyes, both equally hiding uncharted desires. She knew what she wanted unlike with Clarke. And he was about to challenge her further.

"Then I demand the Red Price of Favor." - Damon

"EXCUSE YOU?" - Dulce

Through her earpiece, in another facet, her mother, friend and boyfr-- fiancé (-ish, she didn't have much of a say), were listening, and are able to tip her.

"Ameerah, anak, listen. You don't have to do this if you don't want to. We'll find another way." - Helena

"What's the red price of favor??" - Clarke

"Sex in exchange for a favor." - Theo

"What the hell?? Dulce, NO. You are NOT doing that. No way in hell are you selling your body to that demon. GET OUT OF THERE NOW." - Clarke

Damon moved closer and closer to Dulce, closing any remaining space between them. Dulce stood still as a corpse yet never breaking eye contact. She wanted to ignore Clarke. He wasn't wrong, but she hates being told what to do. She will play her cards 'til she loses before she gives up. She won't back down, not to Clarke and especially not to Damon. Call it selfish, messed up, egoistic, but Dulce is a free woman with a free mind. Ego is the fountainhead of human progress.

He let his soft touch once more carress her face and he removed her earpiece, much to Dulce's delight as she need not listen to Clarke's controlling demands. There was just too much pressure, the feeling of being watched. She felt untied of puppet strings and her mind was on nothing but Damon.

"Come on. It's just one night. Just one time. Clarke and Lola wouldn't be so mad if you had to do this. It's for their lives." - Damon

He seems disgusting, and this demand IS disgusting, but his pleas did not sound like demands. It didn't sound like an assault. He was gentle, it sounded more like an invitation, easing her worries and washing away her guilt. And it was also a challenge. He was pushing further and further into Dulce's limits, yet leaving space if she does back down.

Dulce places his hand away from her and pulls him by his tie as if she held a leash on him. With no traces of hesitation or fear in her eyes still connected to his, she replies.

"It should've been done 4 years ago. Perhaps it's not too late to rehash the past now, is it?" - Dulce

Damon was astonished, but he will never show. He had hoped that she would refuse, but Dulce is full of surprises. He respects her more for her unwavering fire and ability to reverse the coin, and he would respect her all the same even when she had refused. What a fucking simp.

He didn't move for a while. His eyes just fixated on the stunning woman in front of him. He broke eye contact first, finally yielding in to her. His eyes trailed her features, her eyes, her nose, her rosy cheeks, and lastly her lips. His eyes were full of lust and thirst, he wanted her more than he's willing to show, and she wants him more than he'll ever know.

"So? What are you waiting for?" - Dulce

He was stunned beyond words. He muttered a curse under his breath. This woman will be the death of him. Damon finally leans in for a kiss, breathing the air she breathes.

Dulce could barely breathe. His presence was so intoxicating, it'd make her forget the world around her. There was only him and her at this very moment. The tension was just too much to handle. This man will be the death of her.

He was only a few inches away, neither seemed to hesitate. But he withdrew and laughed.

"What?" - Dulce

"I'm a feminist, Dulce. Do you really think I meant what I said?" - Damon

Don't get Damon wrong. He's a huge flirt and he's big on words. He likes strong-headed women, those who don't easily bend. He can be harsh at times, but he is a huge gentleman, a simp, and a devout feminist. Never has he ever sexually assaulted any woman, or man for that matter.

"I know you didn't. You flinched." - Dulce

"So did you." - Damon.

She knew. He knew. They both knew their limits. They both knew they wouldn't get laid tonight, at least not with each other. They both knew there were lines even they wouldn't cross. This is why Dulce never protested. She was calm because she knew she was safe with him as she was the anchor to his humanity, so she pushed back harder than he anticipated. She knew exactly how to wrap him around her perfectly manicured fingers, and she won him over. Or did she really?

"Follow me." - Damon

Dulce sighed but she still followed him to a secret room that revealed paintings and objects of his descendants, the legacy that his family left in the mob world.

"In Europe, the first mafia to establish was Ireland. The Ar dtús made the first attempt in organizing a network of syndicates. We base our codes on the mythological cycle. However, the Ar dtús were torn apart into two as 2 brothers fought for power over the other. The "Fir Bolgs" headed by "Eochai Mac Erc," James Castellano, the older one among the three siblings, was challenged by the second group, "Tuatha De Denann" headed by the second brother, "Nuada" Lucky Castellano. The Tuatha De Denann won over the Fir Bolgs. Yet they're reign was short lived. They were unaware of the youngest sibling, "Balor", Paula Castellano, who was arranged to a marriage with Stephen O'Sullivan. Then, a new syndicate rose to be stronger than Tuatha De Dennan, until they successfully cast out the former syndicate. The Fomorians emerged to be the strongest of all the syndicates ever established in Ireland. They've had complex relations with the remnants of Tuatha and intermarriages have occurred. Most of the mixed races were due to the Red Price of Favor granted to the enslaved Tuatha. However, the Fomorian regime was not spared from a repeat of the history. A new syndicate started to form- the Gaels or Milesians, headed by Gael Coonan. Yet the feud was amended with the love of the Fomorian heir, Jack O'Sullivan and the Milesian bastard, Aleia Daniels-- " - Damon

He was interrupted before he could elaborate his family's history.

"Jack was originally bethroted to Nicole Coonan. However, Jack risked everything and gave up the mob to be with Aleia. They had twins- Dan and Andrei O'Sullivan. Jack and Aleia still got caught, slaughtered and their children had to carry the burden of the mob world. Clearly, the Milesians were winning over the Fomorians. Until, the twins Dan and Andrei took action. They formed an alliance instead and came to an agreement. The Fomorians will operate underground. The Milesians will work in the visible world where they establish legal businesses to serve as a conduit that can cater the illegal trade spearheaded by the Fomorians. The Irish mafia realized that to best succeed is to not get caught by the authorities. And the best escape was a cover up, which happens to be legalization of the illegal activities, care of the Milesians. The feud started with two brothers and likewise, ended with two brothers. As the founders of mob undertakings, most of the European syndicates credit the title to the Fomorians and follow the set of rules, called the Fomorian code. This is where you came from. Yes, I know the history. Thank you." - Dulce

"This isn't just history, Dulce. This is MY family. Jack O'Sullivan. He was the head of the Fomorian mob but he gave it all up for the Milesian bastard Aleia Daniels, his love. And now they are both dead. No matter how much Jack and Aleia ran away from the mafia world, they were still dragged back to their roots, their blood was the price of a failed escape, and their descendants greatly suffered for it." - Damon

Dulce realized the miscalculation on her part. This wasn't just a ploy. He was serious this time and this means a lot to him. She felt for him truly. She thought he was just an arrogant piece of shit who likes toying with people's feelings, the type who'd capture someone's emotions only to leave them hanging at the end. But that's not him. He cares. A lot.

"I'm sorry... about your family... Why are you showing me this?" - Dulce

"Is it not clear? I don't want my descendants to follow the same path." - Damon

Dulce was taken aback with his sentiment. Does he mean that... ??

"You want to get out of the syndicate?" - Dulce

"Yes. Too many have died." - Damon

No. No he can't. Dulce worried for him in her mind. He doesn't deserve to just--

"Get out of the syndicate and you're dead. You'll be excommunicated. You won't be afforded the rights of protection." - Dulce

"I'm sorry, is that concern in your voice I'm hearing?" - Damon

And there goes his ego again.

"PUHLEASE, don't flatter yourself. Damon, the mere thought of you disgusts me. I am utterly repulsed by you. But that doesn't mean I want you to die... You won't make it alive." - Dulce

She lied. She does care for him. Back when she was still training for her comeback, Damon was one of the people who taught her how to fight back. They got close and for the first time in years, Damon was the first person who helped her feel since her husband died. He was there for her, and then one day he wasn't anymore. He vanished with no explanation. And now here they are.

"I will. I know my way. And for this reason, I cannot grant the law of alliance. Before I leave the syndicate I want to do something right. I will not waste any more lives of men fighting a battle that is not theirs. I'm sorry but I cannot help Regina anymore. I'm done living this life." - Damon

"You said it yourself. Do something right before leaving the syndicate. Protect your ally. Regina is your superior. If we save her, she'll be in debt to you and you can demand the law of freedom. You can get out of the syndicate and still be afforded the right to life and security. Sounds fair." - Dulce

"Enough with the whole alliance charade. You don't care about Regina. You're not here for her. She was an easy and lazy excuse. You want to save your true love. Lola. If you're going to ask for my help, at least be honest about it." - Damon

Oh, Lola was definitely not her true love. Perhaps she was her soulmate.

"Ok- Lola is NOT my true love- And you would have instantly said no." - Dulce

"Understandably so. Is Lola really worth the risk?" - Damon

"Yes. Without question." - Dulce

"She ruined your life." - Damon

He prioritized her more than she was willing to put herself first.

"I forgive her." -Dulce

She meant it. After all this time, she finally has.

"You've gone soft. Next thing you know, you're lying next to my ancestors' grave." - Damon

So has he. And she noticed. Her heart moved by how much trauma he was scarred.

"I feel pity for you, Damon. I truly do. You asked me to be honest and yet you lie to yourself. You feel everything. You care as much as I do. Maybe even more. Perhaps you should accept that too." - Dulce

"Careful with your tongue, Dulce. There's only so much snark I can take, even from a lovely woman as you." - Damon

He lied. He would never touch so much as a hair on her head.

"That was no snark, Damon." -Dulce

She didn't lie. She is not without a heart. She may have some ill-feelings towards him but she truly cares for him too. He looked at her and saw only truth. They melt into each other's eyes. They understand each other and can connect to a deep level. They both deserved better. They were both once innocent, but the world pushed them to push back, so they both got their hands dirty to survive, and they don't judge each other for it.

"You know what, maybe you're right. Maybe I don't give a damn about Regina. But I want to find her. I want to make her pay for the role she played in ruining my life." - Dulce

She yielded to him this time, let him know that she is meeting him halfway.

"Well, let's see first if you can walk out of here alive." - Damon

"Enough of the threats, Damon. If you wanted to kill me, you would've already. You're not gonna hurt me. And we both know why." - Dulce

Of course, they knew. There has always been tension between them building up long ago, but whatever they had got held up for a while, and here they are, and it's still there. Doesn't mean something will happen though. It's too complicated to acknowledge or act on in a time of war.

"Do not flatter yourself, Dulce..." - Damon

Again, he lied. Dulce is more than just a faded memory. She's his anchor.

For a while there was silence between them, both at the verge of tears, torn apart by decisions they need to make. But just like Dulce, Damon is not without a heart.

"Alright. I'll help you. I will supply an arsenal of weapons... everything you need. But not men. Signora Fenice already has the underground lycans. That's all I can do for you, I'm sorry." - Damon

"And that is more than enough. Go raibh maith agat, an Ri. (Thank you, "the King".)" - Dulce

"Don't thank me." - Damon

"Regina will hear of what you did. She'll grant you the law of freedom. I'll try to keep her alive... for you." - Dulce

She meant it. Damon deserves to get out as much as she does and she can hold off killing Regina if that could help a kindred spirit. Damon is a core memory to Dulce. He does matter to her too, more than anyone will ever fathom.

"Do not bother. You do not love me, therefore I shall not hinder you from doing what you must. Do not sacrifice on my behalf." - Damon

His heart ached a little upon saying Dulce doesn't love him. His voice almost broke. But then he couldn't blame Dulce. He left first.

Unknown to him, her heart ache just as much hearing he thinks she doesn't love her. He was part wrong. There was a time Dulce loved him. She loves him still but not in the way he wishes her too. At least not yet. And he respects her anyway.

"And do not tell me what to do." - Dulce

She didn't say it as a snark. What she really meant was, "I do love you, you know?". But it's been too long. Whatever is between them is... they don't know. They sure are important to each other, a crucial fiber of their memories. They care for each other deeply, too many unspoken words between them. But they aren't lovers, at least not yet and might never be. Fair to dismiss their relationship as platonic for now.

He was looking away from Dulce to prevent his strong exterior from withering and falling apart, but she longingly looked at him, hoping he would look back at her, the same way she had hoped when he left her 4 years ago.

"I wouldn't dare." - Damon

He was speaking the truth at this point, and he finally looked back at her. She smirked back at him before walking away from him.

"Dulce... wait." - Damon

Damon stood up, walked towards her as he took off his coat, and cupped her face. There's so many things he could say to her, explaining why he left, but all he really wants to do is kiss her, and Dulce wouldn't oppose if she weren't engaged to one guy, and in love with another woman. But he didn't kiss her even though it was eating him inside, because he respects her boundaries.

"... It's cold outside. You can take my coat... it's much quieter to exit from behind... but you were never one to go quietly." - Damon

He put his coat around her and she let him. I guess now she forgives him as well.

"The cold never bothered me anyway." - Dulce

They both smiled genuinely, proud of each other's growth. Dulce broke eye contact first, and was the one to walk away this time around.

Before she could leave, she turned to him one last time to say something she's wanted to say in response to his earlier sentiment.

"And Damon... I don't... I don't not love you. Oíche mhaith (good night)." - Dulce

Damon remained stern until she finally went out of his room and exit his abode through the front door, through the crazy crowd that parted like the red sea as she walked away unscathed.

Back in the room, Damon dropped his pretenses and whispered a response to Dulce's confession.

"I don't not love you too... Good night, love..." - Damon

It was indeed a crazy party, visiting a ghost from the past. If anything, this was closure on Dulce's part. It was this moment when she realized that she had so many loose ends from the past, and she needs closure. She knew what she had to do.

===============

Meanwhile, Lia and Athena just got back to the team. Lia threw herself straight to Theo's loving embrace and planted her lips to his. Aww, their first kiss. She figured it was time to get past the pretenses and just go for it. And it was the most remarkable and passionate first kiss for them both. Theo eagerly returned her kisses as she sunk into the warmth and safety of his hug, surviving the night unharmed.

"What was that for?" - Theo

"Wala lang... Mahal kita eh." - Lia
(Translation to English: Nothing... I just really love you...)

"Mahal din kita." - Theo
(Translation: I love you too.)

Not long after, they joined their lips together again for another earth-shattering kiss. Their love was really in the air.

"Oooh kay. Get it girl... " - Athena

Meanwhile Clarke was going ballistic. He didn't know if Damon and Dulce went for it or not. He was smoking mad. They just got engaged.

"Si Dulce?? Nasaan?? Hindi nyo binalikan?" - Clarke

"She's going to be fine. She'll be here. She wouldn't go for it." - Athena

"YOU DON'T KNOW THAT! God knows anong ginagawa nila ngayon!" - Clarke

"Are you serious?! Dulce is a lot of things but she is NOT a cheater! She's your partner. Can't you trust her??" - Athena

"Ah? Kaya pala tatlo kami ni Lola at Leith, pinagsabay sabay niya noon??" - Clarke
(Translation: OH? So that's why she dated the three of us - me, Lola and Leith - all at once before??)

OH- HE DID NOT JUST SLUT SHAME DULCE- I- That's it. Clarke got to Athena's nerves. She was heating up with so much anger, Clarke got so out of line.

"OH MY GOD CLARKE YOU ARE SUCH A KID!! This isn't you!! You were so much better than this! What the hell happened to you?? Ano pa ba ang gusto mo?? Nasa sa iyo na si Dulce! Leith is probably dead, Lola is about to be sold off to prostitution and you basically forced her to be engaged with you! You basically control her!" - Athena

"NO- DO NOT--" - Clarke

"NO YOU SHUT UP! I HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU BEING A JERK!! You know you say na tanggap mo ang lahat tungkol kay Dulce but you are one fucking liar! Because hindi mo siya tanggap Clarke! You keep trying to change her! You hate how we are! You hate how we do anything to survive, how we can kill and torture and seduce, you hate that we aren't saints, but you yourself have contributed as to why we became who we are right now." -Athena

Athena woke up and chose to speak facts, leaving Clarke in silence for self reflection. Athena was really fuming with rage. Yes she herself was guilty, and yes Clarke's intentions are usually good, but the way he's projecting his guilt to Dulce wasn't ok.

"You're a fucking hypocrite Clarke. Thankfully, Dulce is not you. So stop projecting your mistakes and insecurities towards her... You wanna keep her? Stop trying. You're suffocating her and you're gonna push her away further... I've said my piece. If you won't listen, that's on you." - Athena

She walked away from him and walked back into the van. Lia and Theo partly heard through their squabble, with Theo intellectual enough to understand what had transpired between the two, but he figured it was their business, and they'll figure it out.

Not long after, Dulce entered the scene, and Clarke looked at her with a hint of disgust and disappointment, seeing her with another man's coat. Dulce almost rolled her eyes and sighed, looking back at him stronger and unbending.

"I didn't sleep with him. It was all just a ploy." - Dulce

"Yeah, right" - Clarke

"Clarke, I get it. I haven't exactly been the most perfect girlfriend. You're jealous and yes, you're feelings are valid. And I'm sorry if the lengths I have to go to for survival aren't up to your moral standards. But I deserve a better treatment from you... and if you don't like me anymore, that's ok. But maybe you shouldn't ask me to marry you then... because I won't put either of us through hell." - Dulce

Well, Clarke got double-lectured by two fiery queens tonight. Let's hope he does learn his lesson.

They're all back in their headquarters, once more building up their plans and strength. Although Damon did provide help, it wouldn't suffice to bend the odds to their favor, leading them to start panicking and questioning the next steps in their plan.

"Ano nang gagawin natin ngayon? Hindi pa rin sapat yung mga tauhan natin eh." - Lia
(Translation: What are we gonna do now? We still don't have enough manpower.)

"Trust me I'm trying to think, but apparently as proven by recent events, I'm not exactly the best strategist. As we're trying to think of a plan, they're probably already 10 steps ahead of us." - Helena

"God these are the times I miss Regina." - Athena

Helena was self-aware of her shortcomings. Helena was just a teenage girl plucked out of innocence, 'til she became a vengeful mother joining a dangerous world for her long lost child. She was only driven by anger and thirst that drilled a void in her heart. Regina was more power hungry, and she really was a better strategist, calculating, and diabolical, but unknown to them, Regina was short-sighted and Catherine was more cunning.

"Shut up." - Helena

That was a joke, no worries.

"I tracked down at least 3 locations where Lola could be if that helps. If we could get in touch with anyone who sells Intel like Roger Boone, I think we can figure something out." - Theo

"Yeah, I can arrange a meeting with his wife." - Athena

Ah yes, Nadia and Roger.

"We're running out of time." - Dulce/Ameerah

"Forget Lola then!" - Clarke

"No!" - Dulce/Ameerah

Oh dear not this lover's quarrel. In Clarke's defense, Lola was pretty much deadweight, but it was more of he didn't want competition with Dulce's heart. His reasons were wrong but he kind of does have logic. Whereas Dulce seeks to save not just an innocent life, but the life of her love one. You can say her judgement is partly clouded but she wasn't operating out of jealousy.

"Jesus- ganito nalang. Pag nadeliver ni Damon ang mga armas bukas, dukutin natin siya tas linlangin natin yung mga tauhan niya para mapilitan silang makipablagan." - Clarke
(Translation: Jesus- ok let's do this instead. When Damon delivers the weapons tomorrow, let's kidnap him, then let's fool his men as if the enemies took him so they'd be forced to fight for us.)

"Wow, so much for being the moral compass." - Athena

Athena said sarcastically. No seriously, this is hypocrisy. Clarke liked Dulce better when the times were happy and when he didn't know her dark sides. But now, here goes his darkness. Dulce was fuming, not because of his dark side, but because he was being irrational and stupid.

"What the hell? Do you hear yourself?? I am not going to betray him right after he just opened up to me! He will NEVER forgive me." - Dulce/Ameerah

She was serious. She did care for him. A lot. She can never betray him. This triggered Clarke. Others felt a bit awkward watching them fight, but they kept their ears and minds open. The tension in the air was rising.

"Do you really care more about that?? What is it with Damon that spins your moral compass in a tizzy?" - Clarke

"OH MY GOD! You're jealousy is WAYYY out of line! Have you even thought your plan through?? There is NO way he'll walk in here without a back up plan. He's a fucking leader of a fucking syndicate! His men are loyal to him. If they find out what we did to Damon, we'd be making another enemy for ourselves! Do you realize na pwedeng mag back fire sa'tin yung pinaplano mo??" - Dulce/Ameerah

She has a point.

"How sure are you that his men are so loyal to him?" - Clarke

"Because I would be." - Dulce/Ameerah

And that did it. Clarke - along with the rest of the team - fell silent as if he felt betrayed by Dulce's loyalty towards Damon, a guy who just entered the picture, over him who's her fiancé. Dulce admitted her loyalty in the heat of the moment, but she meant it. She would never intentionally hurt Damon. The same way she didn't intend to hurt Clarke now.

Dulce and Clarke were the "it" couple. Now so many words spoken but the connection they once shared grows fuzzier by day. It seems like their relationship is now fractured, both equally at fault. Clarke - physically cheating with Athena, disgusted and unaccepting of Dulce's dark impulses, projecting his guilt and insecurities towards his partner, and trying to mold Dulce into a stereotypical housewife. Whereas Dulce emotionally cheating with Lola, her feelings tangled all while stringing along Clarke, Lola and now Damon. Both broken and confused with so much to work on.

"Guys, wag tayong mag-away away, please. Tayo tayo nalang ang magtutulungan..." -Lia

She said to break the tension and keep the group together. This isn't the time to turn on each other.

"Tama si Dulce. Mas lalo tayong mapapahamak." - Theo

"Wait that could actually work if we don't screw it up... that's like a 5% chance. I mean it's Damon we're talking about. Dulce, you're his blind spot." - Athena

"We are NOT betraying him." - Dulce/Ameerah

She was firm with her decision. She knows she's hurt enough people. She doesn't want to add more to the already long list.

"So what do you suggest we do instead?" - Clarke

Everyone was silent once more, until Helena decided to deploy the nuclear option. She tried to hold this off for Dulce and Clarke's sake but it was simply inevitable.

"Clarke... call your mom." - Helena

"What?" - Clarke

"Miranda Montevista??" - Athena

They were genuinely perplexed. They did know that Jonathan was part of the syndicate, but Miranda was completely innocent to their knowledge. What could she possibly contribute to the table?

"I wasn't going to drag her into this but we're out of options... and your mom is the closest we've got... but only if you're ok with it." - Helena

"W-Wait, how? Why?? What's going on??" - Clarke

"Clarke, your mother is part of the syndicate... your mother... is Catherine Romanova." - Helena

Yes. Catherine Romanova - Russian syndicate, 3rd seat at the Fomorian council, the one who murdered Esang - Serena's foster mother - in cold blood, the one who held Lola, Leith and Regina captive; and Miranda Montevista - Clarke's modest, respectable and seemingly innocent mother - are one and the same. I guess this explains why she was eager to form a business deal with Dulce. She was a Fomorian, and she tried to make Dulce her Milesian cover. I guess this also explains why she hated Serena, note when she said she wished Jonathan chose someone na kayang makipagsapalaran sa mundo nila.

Well, Dulce and Clarke's already complicated relationship just got even more complicated.

==============================

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