"Agh!" Echo grunts as the piece of my dress finally tears off, fluttering defenceless onto the dance floor.

The atmosphere shifts, the air heavy with tension as the night's extravagance loses its allure. Jacobson stands amidst the dwindling crowd, a resigned expression etched on his face as he wipes a hand across his brow. The Erotes scramble to their feet, hastening after Iris who has fled towards the rooms.

Echo's voice cuts through the silence, mirroring the confusion etched on my face. "What's your next move?"

I grunt in response, my steps heavy and purposeful as I make my way across the dance floor toward Jacobson.

"I can't wait until two days later. I need Medea, now!" A surge of instinct propels me forward, a familiar sense of power awakening within me, the same one I felt the first time I donned Iris' crown.

Brushing me off with a slight shift of his body and his voice firm, he replies, "Our arrangement stands. Unless you have a plan in mind, I suggest you let me be."

As my sobriety begins to return, I notice the furry patches peeking through the open ends of his shirt. A whisker beard holds firmly on his chin, but his human beauty still remains in view.

"I don't..."

"Human, please. My hands are utterly full right now. Medea can wait," he interrupts, brushing past me, amused disdain colouring his facial features. "You reek of sex beneath all that glitter."

I gasp, caught off guard by his blunt observation.

"Perhaps," I hold my head high, "I'm not the only one easily distracted."

He effortlessly vaults over the bar, grabbing a mixer and tossing in a medley of ingredients before expertly shaking them into a drink.

"I'm starting to think you're pulling my leg," I add, hanging my elbow by the bar.

"I am, to be honest," he admits with a hint of mischief. "But Medea's disappearance is no game. She's probably buried alive in a cave somewhere, wouldn't put it past her. Your Order, on the other hand, ruined one of my best soirees."

"Don't you pin this on The Order! Were you blind when your 'ally' just stabbed your back?"

He chuckles, a wry smile playing on his lips. "He was never truly on my side to begin with."

"Then there must be a reason he's a member right? Unless, of course, a hefty price outweighs any loyalty here. This Sub clearly is keen on exploiting boundaries, is it not?"

He sets down the shaker with a thud and leans in toward me, his eyes narrowing. "You're here by invitation because your satyr, Vianney, is a partner of the Sub. So, don't lecture me about boundaries."

He pours the blue concoction into two glasses before sliding me one. "Drink?"

I push the glass back toward him before meeting his eyes.

"It's virgin. I don't tolerate alcohol." His eyes hold a bit of judgment.

I huff as Echo circles the room, her heels clicking on the floor. "Here's what's going to happen."

He slams his empty glass on the counter. "Nope. Nah-uh, human. I make the deal, so here's what's going to happen. Bring me twenty auricins and I'll help you."

"We had an agreement," I remind him firmly.

"You have insulted me and my establishment, so I guess the deal's off."

A soft whisper cuts through the tension, causing him to falter and kneel with a reluctant grunt. I glance sideways to catch Echo muttering silently under her breath.

I turn back to The Jacobson. "At least do it for Iris."

"Kendi, we need to leave now!" Fermon's urgent voice interrupts as he bursts onto the scene from behind a wall.

"What is it?"

"Iris has left for Earth, and I don't think she's in the right headspace," he explains hurriedly.

I turn to the Jacobson, apprehensive. "You better make that decision now."

"Fine," he grumbles in resignation. With a sudden lurch, he collapses forward, his forehead meeting the counter with a thud. The glasses and bottles of beer beneath the counter clatter to the floor as he goes down. Echo lets out a satisfied huff before darting outside to join the others.

I move behind the counter, helping Jacobson up. His dry hand massages his forehead as he gets up, exhaling deeply and feverishly. "I'm not certain you should be named an Order. Chaos follows you everywhere you go."

"Yeah, well, chaos likes the taste of our blood. Are you okay?"

"I'll manage," he replies, straightening his shirt. "Thanks."

We then make our way outside, slowly dragging our feet as we head toward the rainbow.

"I didn't know she could do that."

"Ah, she's got your back. That's the only thing you need to be worried about."

Knitting my eyebrows I ask, "What'd you mean? Isn't that supposed to be a good thing?"

He sniffs in response. "Supposed to be, ugh..." he winces then continues, "though knowing Echo, something heavy and demanding follows a favour. And, speaking of favours, I will do this as one."

"What changed your mind?"

"Earth. No one has ever searched for her there. She must be hiding there, away from all this chaos," he explains, his tone betraying a sense of urgency.

As the night begins to wane, the sky transforms into a mesmerising purple hue with the onset of dawn. We draw closer to the rainbow, ascending the iridescent arch as our mission progresses.

"What's this about owing Echo a favour?" I ask, trying to piece together the complexities of the situation.

The Jacobson grunts and huffs in an air of authority and composure. "If that's still her modus operandi, then yes. Vianney hasn't shared their past with you, has he?"

"I did kind of notice some tension," I admit, recalling the subtle undercurrents between them.

"And he ripped your clothes already? Got to give it to him. He works fast." He chuckles deeply as I try to decipher his words. "Those two were practically inseparable, especially from their mouths, venturing down below," he elaborates with a mischievous grin, drawing out the word 'below' for added effect.

"There wasn't much communication between them, for obvious reasons, but they were together for years. That's until Echo realised what a man-of-the-people the satyr is and Vianney realised how futile it was to stay with just one partner."

Cain coughs in front of me, looking slightly over his shoulder.

"They tried to make it work, but Vianney was getting all this attention from everyone and he can never say no. He would never say or accept a no."

"What happened?"

"Once he made partner, usually since the co-founder of the Sub loved his exquisite pander business, his desires and wants became immensely insatiable. The Sub's parties became synonymous with debauchery, often turning into orgies for his clients and companions. Echo confronted him, but he deflected blame onto her."

He stretches his fingers that now, as I see properly, seem to elongate like claws on a human hand. "I'm not bad-mouthing your friend. I've had my share of him as well, but I wouldn't trust him. No, the best way to put this in this type of situation, don't place all your eggs in one basket. Vianney being the basket."

I shudder, recalling the fleeting moment of intimacy and belonging I once felt with Vianney. The reality of his nature as a satyr sinks in, far removed from the romantic illusions.

"I swear those were his glory days. Girls even wanted to be sold because apparently, it is what he did best. He treated them well, took care of them and they never even had to ask. Got the name Panda," The Jacobson adds, a touch of disdain in his voice.

"He told me he doesn't indulge as often anymore," I mention.

The Jacobson laughs in response. "Just about right, human. The clientele has shifted; fewer girls to sell and only more bald boys." He gently taps my shoulder as we approach my home. "Don't get it in your head. The way I see it, there's always great love beyond a set of rules."

His eyes fall to Cain as we finally catch up with the rest. Everyone seems frantic and fatigued, but adamant to get on with the mission. Emfri being captured may be the fuel we needed to get everything over and done, especially now there seems to be a deadline.

"Where's The Panda?" Alonov asks sternly.

"Ah, probably still in his rendezvous. Finished me off and dove back in. He's quite the enthusiast," The Jacobson replies casually, although his words hit me differently. The truth stings, tightening the clench in my chest. Cain was in fact telling the truth.

"Too much information, Jacobson," Echo interjects, voicing what everyone seems to feel.

Iris huffs and storms through the wall, her anger palpable. The group follows suit, determined and resolute, while I trail behind them, feeling the weight of the unfolding events settle heavily on my shoulders.

"Again, don't take it all in your head. You had sex, right?"

"I don't want to talk about it."

Jacobson chuckles softly. "Shouldn't even have asked, I do smell his semen on you, you know."

"That's disgusting."

"What I mean is, he never takes it so passionately. Not until you. But it seems he wasn't able to take away all the heaviness you seem to be carrying, driving him back in to find some more to take."

I slide on the rainbow when The Jacobson grabs my arm preventing me from falling, and we descend the rainbow together. "Is that what he does? Takes on your burdens?"

"He feeds on them. They fuel him, but for some reason, he couldn't relieve you of yours. So, he sought solace elsewhere. Ooouu..." he trails off, releasing my arm as we finally set foot into my father's office.

My brother stands there, eyes wide with astonishment. He can't tear his gaze away from Iris until he notices me, descending from a rainbow with an unfamiliar creature beside me. His iPad slips from his grasp, his lips quivering as he struggles to comprehend the scene before him. Concern washes over me, and I rush to soothe his fragile state before it escalates like Cain's initial reaction to all this.

"Joshua, hey! Listen to me. What you are seeing is real. What you've heard from Sabina countless times is real. This is..."

"Iris," he finishes, walking towards her and embracing her tightly. "Must be my father you found."

"Clever boy."

"Thank you. You helped him a lot. If it weren't for you, maybe I wouldn't be here."

Iris snivels. "I'm glad you're here, Joshua." She kisses his forehead before swiftly exiting the room.

Fermon, Alonov and Echo follow suit, leaving the rest of us there for a minute.

"You didn't tell me about the rainbow, Kendi!" His tone is accusatory yet tinged with excitement. He rushes towards it and climbs up, briefly disappearing over the wall before reappearing with excitement. "So cool!"

"Joshua. Josh..." I falter as I try to get his attention every time he vanishes and reappears.

The Jacobson laughs as he takes a seat, and Cain follows Joshua up. They vanish for a little while before descending the rainbow.

"Why not now? You used it!" he asks Cain.

"Yes, because we were coming home to you. Your sister missed you."

"Do you know she misses you a lot too? Heard her once in her sleep calling out to Cain. Oh, Cain, would you take me out in your red convertible? Yes? Oh, Cain, I love you."

There's no way that's true.

Cain's eyes light up as he looks at me, the room filled with the deep laughter of the deity behind us. "Really?"

"Oh, yes. Talks about you all the time."

"Joshua!" I exclaim through clenched teeth. "Stop embarrassing me. And there's no way I said that, even in my sleep."

He turns to Cain, placing a finger on his lips and whispering. "See, she won't admit it, but it's true."

He jumps back down and heads for his iPad.

"Why were you here, Josh? Are Mum and Dad home?"

"Mum told me to go upstairs to use the TV in their room, but I came here instead. WIFI works better in Dad's office. But, it was also because I thought I saw someone earlier, in leather armour or was it cotton," he shrugs, "can't tell. It looked lighter than usual armour. He had an arrow too, pointed for execution. But it seemed like he was in a hurry. Must be too much gaming." He says all this while eyes are fixed on the iPad.

The rest of us exchange knowing looks, and I realise Stethno wasn't bluffing. I cross my arms and turn back to Joshua.

"Did you see anyone else? Like a woman with red hair, boots, wrinkled shirt?"

He shakes his head. "Nope. Just the one guy. But he wasn't real, trust me."

"What about Mum and Dad? Where are they?"

"They wanted some privacy, I told you. They are with Cain's mother in the living room, probably watching TV. Mum said I couldn't use that one."

The Jacobson stands abruptly, his nostrils flaring as he catches a scent.

"I know that smell."

Cain and I share a baffled look.

"Jasmine. Usually, the jasmine hides beneath several hair-tickling smells, but this one is as clear as day." His eyes meet mine. "Are you hopeful, my dear?"

He strides out, and we follow suit. As we reach the intersection between the dining and living rooms, where one can head upstairs or go to my father's office, Iris and the rest of the Order stand in our way and Iris stops us before we announce our presence.

We are all watching. Both my parents have their backs turned to us. Mrs. Late is seated on an adjacent sofa, her gaze potentially catching us if she looks our way.

"I know it's a lot to ask, but you helped us with Navy. Maybe you'll extend your services to Kendi as well?"

My father sits up. "Honey, we are probably jumping to conclusions. You know how Kendi reacts to mere speculation. Maybe she's with Cain. Have you tried calling him?"

"My son," The Jacobson turns defensively toward Cain as Mrs. Late speaks, "is with his uncle. They couldn't have been together."

"I sense that you don't really like my daughter, Martha." My father's tone is accusing.

She swallows defiantly, a proud look taking over her features. "I may not prefer her for my son, but I don't dislike her. It appears, Dr. Mckenzie, that you are trying to veer out of this conversation."

"I think they are perfect for each other," my father insists.

She shifts in her seat and my mother places a calming hand on my father's shoulders.

"She doesn't approve of his current demeanour," Echo points out my mother's posture.

"I know they are not. You should know that as well, Navy, since you are a Greek, after all."

My father seems taken aback by her sentiment, and she continues. "I won't allow my son to have a relationship with your daughter, end of story. However, have your daughter come see me. We have much to discuss."

She rises to leave, and my father follows suit.

"I never once told you I'm Greek, didn't even know I was myself. I was an adopted child."

Fermon snorts. "Oh, the drama." His brother in the usual furtive reply, laughs in response.

"This is about tribes, isn't it?" The Jacobson asks.

"It is," Iris replies dismissively as she lifts her head, keen to listen.

"My daughter is perfectly fine and suitable for your son. What I struggle with, this addiction, doesn't define her. She's her own person, and I owe everything to her and my wife. I think it's time for you to leave."

Moved by my father's words, I stifle a sob, feeling genuinely appreciated. It means a lot to be seen.

"I think it's time for our grand entrance," The Jacobson suggests as he manoeuvres past us towards Iris, who stands before us. 

She stops him with her staff pressed against his chest.

"What are you doing? I need to confirm my suspicions."

"What suspicions? That my mother is the sorceress?" Cain sounds vindictive.

"Hey, no hard feelings, man, but look at her. Same brown hair, perfect figure, flawless skin but a face that could use some humility," Jacobson relays, adamant that he's not mistaken.

"Hey! That's my Mum you're talking about. And she's definitely not Medea. I would know."

"No, 'cause you're not me, Athenian. See, I can find you anywhere because now I know your distinct scent, masked with cologne, sweat and shower gel. Trust me when I tell you, I can know if that's Medea or not."

"You mentioned jasmine. My mother doesn't wear any perfume. She prefers neutral scents as she's allergic to heavy perfumes."

"Didn't say it was perfume. It could be her natural scent. And I doubt she's allergic to perfume. Her handbag smells like an entire garden of flowers." He turns to Iris. "Let me have this, please."

Mrs. Late gathers her bag and moves away from the sofa before hastily leaving.

"Navy," my Mum chides with concern before rushing after Mrs. Late.

"Thanks for letting that slide," The Jacobson grumbles before retreating to the office.

Iris strides forward, her staff echoing against the wooden floors, capturing my father's attention. Before I can join him, The Erotes and Echo whisk Cain and me upstairs, just as Iris utters, "Navy, I need your help."