This time the fight was far closer. Seth’s focus was shattered and he barely had the presence of mind to defend himself. To anyone who knew the thief, it looked like his instinct was piloting as his mind raced to grasp what had been said. His sleeve was in tatters from where Salil had raked him a good one. Had it not been for his plated gauntlet, his wrist would probably have been shredded.

A punch connected, the metal gauntlet winding the thief as another punch rocked his face. Seth turned with the blow as he tried to think how his daughter had fallen. Blood began to stream down his face as Salil said something, it all seemed distant to the thief who was still working back through the words. The last he had seen his daughter, she had been chained to Aerith’s wheelchair. She was a prisoner, how did she think that policing them was even a viable route?

No, someone offered her an out. That had to be it. His other arm matched his first. Blood was pouring from the thief’s body at what would have been an alarming rate. More words, more taunts, more things said that were inconsequential. His mind pondered the course not action, Cassandra made no sense. The woman would never have allowed Samantha out of chains, not if she felt there was any chance for Seth to reach her. It was a gamble, a play at creating a monster. This didn't have the Midnight Mistress’ mark, it was far too risky. If Samantha ever realized she could walk away, and no one could stop her? The game was over. The raw manipulation that would take…

“Aerith…” Seth finally growled out.

Salil faltered at the first words from Seth in awhile. He tilted his head in wonder before he spoke, “Who is that? What is going through your head?”

Seth shook his head and realized he was a wreck. His son had scored countless blows, and the Demon was not where he had been before. He realized he couldn't fight like he had, and clicked his tongue in distaste, “You certainly did a number on me…”

“What was that about?” Salil demanded again, “Another lover? Another daughter? Who the hell is Aerith?”

“Don't get your pants in a twist, she doesn't matter to you,” Seth replied, “Not unless you want to help me rather than kill me. I won't lie, the irony of dying to my own kids is not lost on me. Today however, is not my day to die.”

“You're bleeding out, you won't be able to stand for much longer. Even with your stubborn resolve, you've lost to me Demon!”

“Now what?” The question rocked his son. Salil’s eyes widened, and Seth stood. He walked carefully towards Salil who took a wild swing at the thief, “Just what I thought. You aren't even sure yourself. You don't want to kill me, I can feel a killer’s intent and you're lacking it.”

Salil growled and slashed at the thief again who dodged the blow. Seth stretched his arms out wide, “Kill me Salil, we both know you don't have what it takes.”

Salil’s eyes widened at the bold proclamation. He shook his head slowly and swung for Seth who dodged. He growled lowly, “I knew you wouldn't make it that easy.”

“You're still not trying,” Seth replied, “Try again, for someone who's killed an entire brothel, you certainly forgot how to kill. Was that a fluke? Or are you realizing the consequences your actions bear?”

The gauntlet slid into his gut, and Seth to his credit didn't shy from the blow. He hunched forward, leaning against Salil who looked at his father with concern on his face. It was a terrible clarity born of a moment's passion. One that shook the foundations as the man realized the magic's grip on his mind. Seth pushed off the claws and stumbled a step, falling to the ground. He let out a weak chuckle his eyes glazing over, “Buyer’s remorse kid? This is what you wanted, right?”