Fenrir's Binding: The Queen And The Barbarian

By evolution-500

Genres: Romance/Angst

Feedback: Always welcome

WARNING: This story contains violence, coarse language and mature themes. Reader discretion is advised.

Disclaimer: Killer Instinct" is a property belonging to Rareware and Microsoft while "The Boys" is a property by Garth Ennis and Dynamite Comics. I do not own these characters.

* * * * *

Chapter Nine: Farewells

"No one can save us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We must walk the path alone."

- Buddha

Maeve watched as Tusk loaded in the last item into the rowboat.

"That should be about it," he groaned, stretching his back.

"Finally," Maeve sighed.

"I take it you are glad to leave?"

She scoffed. "You have no idea."

Fuck this cold weather and this godforsaken shithole. No more monsters, no more shifting landscapes, no more dark gods. Goodbye nightmares, hello French fries, hot dogs, fresh booze, toilet paper, and warm bubble baths.

And if either Ashley or Edgar insisted on her getting on another plane, someone was going to get punched, consequences be damned.

Looking back to the barbarian, Maeve tucked some hair behind her ear.

"You know," she said slowly, "with Homelander gone, this will create another opening within The Seven. We could use another hero."

Tusk raised a brow. "Even after everything, you still want me to come?"

The celebrity smiled brightly. "Why not? After all, who better to join than Theseus himself? The Seven could use someone of your experience, Tusk."

The warrior frowned, shaking his head. "I'm afraid I must respectfully decline your offer, Maggie. My place is here as watchman, come Ragnarok."

Maggie's smile fell as she heard his answer. "Even after everything you have been through, you're still going to go through with that? You would still choose to be their watchman?"

"It is a necessity, Maggie," Tusk replied, his face hard. "Someone has to ensure that the Old Ones and Outer Gods never make their way in, no matter how terrible the consequences. If it's not me, then someone else will be tasked with carrying out the duties of watchman." He breathed out condensation. "I am tired, Maggie. But...the price for being a watchman is too great for anyone to bear. It has to be me."

Maggie pityingly stared at him for a long time, trying to think of a way to convince him. "It doesn't," she said in a soft voice as she then gave him an imploring look. "Come with me."

Tusk's frown deepened. "Maggie-"

"You don't have to be alone anymore," she insisted. "You don't have to keep fighting. Don't you want to be happy?! If you stay here, this place will destroy you!"

The barbarian gave a grim smile, his eyes possessing an empty stare that she didn't like at all. "What makes you think that it hasn't already?"

Maggie shook her head vigorously. "You have no reason to stay here. Let this shithole be swallowed by these fuckers, they can't do a damn thing, Tusk! They can't open the gate! You deserve more - can't you see that?! Please, Tusk. Let me save you."

For a moment, Tusk stood completely still, as if considering her offer. Letting out a deep, full-chested, rumbling sigh, he slowly shook his head in refusal.

"I can't," he breathed, his eyes staring deep into hers.

"Why?!" She demanded.

Tusk was silent for a time, the snow cascading and dancing in the air.

Clenching her fists, Maeve placed her hands on her hips in frustration, shaking her head. "You want to know what I think, Tusk? I think you're full of shit. I think the real reason why you won't leave this place is because you are scared."

Tusk gave a gruff laugh. "Is that what you believe?"

"Yeah, I do!" She retorted. "Who do you think you're fooling? The only reason why you want to stay here is because you want to die."

Hearing her answer, the barbarian lowered his smile, considering her words. Sighing, Tusk let his massive sword rest by his booted feet, his hands holding its handle.

"I won't lie, there is a touch of truth in what you say," he admitted. "Many times I have contemplated taking my own life. Many times have I attempted ending it all. I have flung myself off the highest peaks, drowned myself in the the deepest and coldest depths. I sought out many a powerful and fearsome enemy and the strongest of poisons. I even tried burning myself in the hottest flames. But..." His eyes lowered tiredly to the ground, "no matter my efforts...it had all been fruitless exercises in futility. It was always the same. I have been cut, skewered, devoured, and mutilated so many times and in so many ways... I'm not certain that there is much of my original self left at this point. I won't lie, I dreaded every waking hour. I dreaded what the next day would bring for me."

Raising his eyes to meet hers, his look softened. "That was...until I met you, Maggie. Do you not think I don't want to escape from this island? As much as I loathe my existence here...I fear for you, Maggie. I really do. Much more than you can imagine. If I come with you, Nyarlathotep will come after you, just as he had with my family. I can't do that to you."

The two stood silently before each other, the barbarian's words lingering.

Swallowing, Maggie exhaled as she wiped her nose. "So...I guess this is goodbye, then," she murmured.

He nodded. "It would seem so." Folding her arms together, Maggie looked conflictedly at him and the boat. "Why do you look so troubled, Maggie?"

She shook her head. "Nothing. It's just...I can't help feeling as if I've let you down."

"Nay, you haven't, Maggie," Tusk assured as he approached, placing a hand on her shoulder. "You haven't. You have done far more than you could have possibly imagined. I thank thee for making me realize that a human heart still beats within this breast, that the man I once was, even though there may not be much of him left at this point...is...far from being dead."

Hearing that, the celebrity hero started to become misty-eyed as her tears trailed down her cheeks. Raising a hand, Tusk gently brushed them away with the side of his thumb.

"No tears, Maggie," he said softly. "Though we may physically part, there are still ways for us to keep in touch."

She gave him a questioning look. "How?"

"Through dreams."

She furrowed her brow. "Dreams?" Maeve repeated, uncertain of what he meant.

"Dah. Dreams are gateways, ones that are commonly accessed and traveled," he explained. "Though the body may remain bound by the physical space and realm it occupies, the mind, however, is limitless in what it can do, in what it is able to achieve. The mind can allow one to travel to vistas never conceived of. It is in the Dreamlands where I will await and greet you."

Blinking, Maeve shook her head incredulously. After everything she's seen and heard, nothing seemed to surprise her anymore.

"Interesting manner of communication," she commented. "I would have preferred a telephone or email. Or even a letter. Personally, though...I'd rather you just come with me."

Tusk gave a slow, conceding nod. "As do I," he quietly admitted.

The barbarian and celebrity hero stood close and leaned forward, pressing their foreheads together.

Sandwiching his hand between hers, Maggie brushed her thumbs against his calloused knuckles. Lifting it up to her mouth, she pressed her lips against them, softly and gently kissing them. "I'll miss you."

Tusk lifted his hand, cupping her chin. "As will I, Maggie. As will I."

Nuzzling against his hand, Maeve closed her eyes, relishing his warmth as she felt his rough lips softly planted a kiss onto her forehead, causing a tear to roll free.

"Listen, uh..." she stammered, "you-you take care of yourself, okay? I know you're this big immortal badass and all, but I do care about you, alright? If you ever need help, let me know...somehow, okay?"

He nodded. "Dah. I will. The same applies to you as well. We will meet again, Maggie. That I promise."

"Don't keep a promise...if you know you can't keep it."

Tusk moved his hand from her chin, cupping her cheek. "It is a promise that I intend on keeping. I will find a way, Maggie. Even if I have to fight through all of space and time in order to find you, I will." He gently brushed his thumb against her skin, wiping away her tears. "You are not alone, Maggie. You are never alone."

The two stood still, both reluctant to depart.

Finally, Tusk lowered his hand from her face.

Wiping her eyes, she sighed.

"Well," Maggie sniffed, brushing some bangs aside as she started to turn away, "I-I guess I should probably get going-"

"Wait."

"Huh?"

Turning to face him, Maggie watched as Tusk stepped closer to her, a hopeful part of her waiting for him to change his mind. To her disappointment, he took off his bone necklace, the barbarian placing it into her hands.

"This necklace," he said slowly, "had belonged to my mother many ages ago. I had taken this off her after the fall, and have been keeping it with me ever since. I want you to have it."

Hesitating, Maggie took hold of the necklace, her eyes lingering on the long tusk. Lifting her eyes to meet his, she gave him an uncertain look, unsure of whether or not she should take from someone who had lost so much in his life.

Smiling, Tusk a slow nod in approval without saying a word, his eyes answering the unspoken question between them.

Looking back down at the offered item, Maeve placed it on, then smiled. "Thank you."

Tusk studied her, tilting his head from side to side at the necklace.

"It looks good on you," he remarked, nodding thoughtfully.

Maeve scoffed, brushing her long hair over her shoulder. "Well of course it does," she smirked. "I look good in a lot of things."

Tusk chuckled. "I have no doubt that you do."

The two shared a quiet laugh together, then fell silent.

Looking up at him, Maggie gave a small smile, swallowing. "Goodbye, Tusk."

Brushing some of her bangs aside, Tusk nodded, smiling back. "Goodbye, Maggie."

Sharing one final kiss with her for the last time, the barbarian gently caressed her cheek with his free hand. The two remained still as seconds turned to minutes, until finally they parted from one another, though the two still clutched onto each other's hands, both refusing to let go.

Even as he guided her into the boat and slowly pushed her out, the two kept holding tightly onto each other's fingers, both trying to maintain the connection that they felt no matter what, even in spite of the inevitable.

Wading deeper into the water, Tusk slowly guided the boat, his fingers firmly clasping onto hers, his massive sword resting on the boat's rim, while Maggie savored his warmth and touch, squeezing his fingers in affectionate reciprocation.

Giving one final squeeze, the two kept holding onto one another, their gazes never faltering.

As he continued striding into the dark water, Maeve suddenly and desperately uttered one last word to him, her voice soft and small.

"Please...."

Finally, once the water reached up to Tusk's knees, the lovers were forced let each other go as the warrior pushed the boat forward.

Maggie regretfully watched and felt his fingers slip away from hers, leaving the celebrity hero all alone in the boat as the barbarian slowly shrunk away from her, the warmth of his touch gone, now insidiously replaced with the cold damp wind as it sought to erase all memory of it from her hand.

Lifting up his massive sword up with one mighty hand, the barbarian let it rest on his broad shoulders as he waved his last goodbye.

Little by little, Maggie's boat drifted further and further away, the celebrity watching as the island and its sole human occupant faded from view behind a thick, grey mist, until finally both vanished, leaving no trace of their existence.

Looking down at the bone necklace that she wore, Maeve traced her thumb along the long tusk, the celebrity hero raising a hand to her mouth as she started to quietly sniffle. Clutching the item, she let out a slight sob before finally bawling her eyes out, her cheeks burning hot with tears as she lay exposed, her persona shattered.

Although Maeve had been able to save the world, little Maggie Shaw found herself unable to save the one that she loved.

Lying on her side, Maggie cried long and hard as she clutched tightly onto the necklace, her boat quietly drifting out into the ocean toward the bright horizon, leaving behind a series of dark ripples in its wake as she cried herself to sleep.

* * * * *

"BREAKING NEWS COMING TO US LIVE FROM VOUGHT TOWER! Welcome back, everyone. I'm Cameron Coleman, and this is Seven on 7, bringing you VNN's latest Top Seven stories from around the globe. This just in, it has now been confirmed that Queen Maeve has been found! Following a freak accident that had resulted in her plane crashing down into the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, an intensive, weeks-long search-and-rescue effort led by Seven member Starlight had been initiated. The Defender of Des Moines had worked tirelessly alongside various law enforcement agencies, her fellow teammate A-Train, and Payback's Tek Knight in order to locate America's favorite lesbian. According to an official spokesperson from Vought International, quote, "Queen Maeve is currently being hospitalized at an undisclosed location, where she is being treated for exposure and given the best medical care available." As of this time, it is uncertain as to the circumstances surrounding her discovery, but regardless of that uncertainty, we at VNN, along with her many, many, MANY dedicated fans, all wish her a full and speedy recovery."

* * * * *

"Maeve? Maeve?"

Groaning, Maeve winced at the light as she opened her eyes, raising up a hand to block it out as she squinted.

"Starlight?" she murmured.

Starlight smiled. "Thank God. You really had me worried!"

Looking around, Maeve studied her surroundings. Lying on a bed in a small white room, she found herself dressed in a hospital gown, with an IV needle inserted into her arm and a pulse oximeter clipped around her ring finger. On a counter beside her, she saw a pitcher of water along with dozens of cards, flowers and chocolates, all of them seemingly addressed from her fans. One or two chairs lined the side of her bed, while the third was occupied by the young girl sitting next to her. Looking over to Starlight, Maeve saw her dressed in casual clothes consisting of a grey hoodie and a pair of blue jeans, her long blonde hair pulled into a ponytail.

"Where...where am I?" she asked.

"You're in a Vought-owned private hospital in the recovery ward," Starlight explained. "Everything will be okay, Maeve. You're safe now."

Sitting up from the bed, Maeve massaged her forehead. "God, how long have I been out for?"

"About two weeks," the girl answered. "A-Train, Tek Knight and I had found you in a rowboat floating off the coast of Norway. You were barely alive." She then smiled. "You have no idea how relieved I am to see you, Maeve! It's so good seeing you again!"

Maeve gave a slight smile. "Likewise." Groaning, she adjusted the pillow behind her.

"Here, let me help you with that," Starlight volunteered, the young hero helping her out.

"Thanks." Once she got into a proper seating position, Maeve leaned back against the wall and pillow, sighing loudly.

"Is there anything else you need?"

Maeve looked longingly at the ceiling. "I don't suppose you can get me a martini or two."

Starlight scoffed. "Sorry. I'm pretty sure the hospital staff aren't going to approve of that."

"Hm," Maeve hummed distractedly, the celebrity staring up in thought.

Had she been dreaming this whole time?

Had any of it been real?

She mentally scoffed.

Of course not.

The crash must have rattled her badly, and all those days out at sea must have caused her to see things.

"...You okay, Maeve?" Starlight spoke up beside her.

Blinking absentmindedly, Maeve let out a dismissive scoff, a wry smile forming on one side of her face, her eyes partially closed.

"Y-Yeah, sorry," she replied. "I've been having the weirdest dreams out there." Tucking some auburn hair behind her ear, Maeve looked around the room. "So...where's Homelander?"

Starlight blinked. "You don't know?"

"About what?"

She watched Starlight shift uncomfortably. "Homelander...had gone to look for you," she said slowly.

As those words left her mouth, Maeve's heart stopped.

'No way,' she thought. There was no fucking way that had been-

She watched as Starlight looked conspiratorially around before suddenly leaning forward, speaking in a low hushed voice, "Maeve, what happened out there?"

Opening her mouth to respond, Maeve was cut off as the door suddenly opened, revealing the all-too familiar and obnoxious form of Senior Vice President of Hero Management Ashley Barrett, her shoulder-length wavy ginger hair matching the orange blazer and dress pants that she wore.

Upon seeing her, Ashley's eyes and mouth widened in excitement. "There she is!" she beamed. "Wow you are pale!"

'Oh God,' Maeve lamented. 'Kill me now.'

Forcing on a smile, she smiled. "I just woke up. Nice to see you, Ashley," she greeted, watching in surprise as the executive was followed in by the dark-suited form of Vought International CEO Stan Edgar. "Mr. Edgar!"

"Hello Maeve," Edgar politely nodded as he approached her and Starlight. "How are you feeling?"

"Uh, I'm good, thanks!" She nodded back, sitting up straight. "To be honest, I'm...kind of surprised that you would come down to visit me, sir."

He raised a brow. "Why wouldn't I?"

Maeve brushed some bangs nervously out of her face. "Uhh, w-well, I just...kind of figured that you would be too busy." The celebrity hero then nodded again, "I appreciate your taking the time out of your busy schedule to come see me, though, sir."

Edgar waved dismissively. "Think nothing of it. Considering what you have been through and the amount of media attention it had drawn, it's only natural for me to pay a visit and check up on things. Even if we are a pharmaceutical company first and foremost, Vought does care about the health and safety of its employees."

'How considerate,' Maeve thought.

"Is everything to your liking here, Maeve?"

Glancing around the hospital room, she silently studied her surroundings, then looked back to him, nodding gratefully. "It is. Thank you, sir."

"Good. You will find that this hospital is well equipped and staffed, with plenty of amenities that will meet all of your needs and hopefully make your stay as pleasant as possible while you recover from your ordeal." Hearing a phone ring, Maeve watched as Edgar took a cellphone out from his coat. "Yes?" The CEO was still as he listened on the phone, his face flat and expressionless. "I see. Thank you, Samantha."

Hanging up the phone, Edgar stuffed it back into his coat. "My apologies, but I'm afraid Ms. Barrett and I will have to cut this meeting short, as something has just come up. On behalf of everyone at Vought, we all wish you good health and a speedy recovery."

"Thank you, Mr. Edgar."

Maeve watched as he turned toward the door and started to depart with Ashley in tow. Stopping just right in from the handle, Edgar suddenly stopped and turned to face her.

"Oh yes, that reminds me," he said slowly, "as soon as you are well enough, I would like to schedule a private meeting with you over at 82 at your earliest possible convenience. Would you like for me to leave you my card, or would you prefer to get in touch with my secretary via telephone or email and set up an appointment with her?"

"I'll call your secretary once I get out of this place," she nodded.

"Excellent. I look forward to the meeting. Ms. Shaw. Ms. January." And with that, Edgar departed with Ashley, the latter quietly talking with him in hushed tones.

Starlight glanced over at her. "What was that all about?"

Maeve shrugged nonchalantly. "I have no idea." Licking her dry lips, she sighed. "Can you get me a cup of water please?"

She watched as the girl nodded, complying with her request as she poured water from a pitcher into a plastic cup. Gulping it down, Maeve wiped her mouth with the back of her hand.

"Thanks."

"No problem," Starlight nodded, the girl pausing as something caught her attention. "What's the story with that?"

Maeve blinked, puzzled. "Excuse me?"

"The necklace."

The older woman froze. "What necklace?"

"The one you're wearing."

As Starlight gestured to her, Maeve looked down at where she indicated, then froze, her heart stopping.

It...can't be...

Raising a trembling hand, Maggie lifted the bone necklace that she wore, the celebrity staring at the long tusk. Putting a hand over her mouth, she stared misty-eyed at the object, the hero incredulously shaking her head disbelievingly, her mind overwhelmed.

"...Is everything okay, Maeve?" Starlight asked uncertainly.

Clutching the necklace, Maeve wiped her eyes as she recovered her wits. "Y-Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine. It's...it's nothing. It's a...it's a gift from a friend. I thought I had lost it, that's all."

From the furrowed look the girl made, it was evident that Starlight had a ton of questions. However, before she had a chance to press, the door opened, interrupting her as a woman in her fifties with short grey hair and a long white coat appeared with a clipboard in hand.

"Ah! You're awake, I see! Very nice," the woman nodded. "Good morning, your Highness. My name is Doctor Kaos, and I will be your attending physician." Looking over to the blonde, she frowned. "I see you have a visitor. Have I interrupted something?"

Starlight looked back to Maeve, then shook her head, clearing her throat. "Ah, no. Sorry. I'll come back later, okay? It's good to see you again, Maeve."

Maeve smiled. "It's good to see you too, Starlight. And thank you."

The girl gave her a hesitant, somewhat surprised look at first. Finally, her expression softened as she smiled back. Turning around, she disappeared out the door, leaving Maeve alone with Dr. Kaos.

The physician glanced over in her direction. "Your friend is quite nice. She's been coming to see you every day since your arrival here."

Maeve said nothing as she merely shrugged. "She's a good kid."

"Indeed." Checking her watch, Kaos then brought up her clipboard. "Now then, your Highness, let's begin our examination, shall we? How are you feeling?"

Maeve shrugged again. "Pretty good, I guess?"

"Have you been experiencing any symptoms? Nausea? Chills? Headaches?"

"No. Not as far as I can tell." Shifting uncomfortably on the bed, Maeve fidgeted with the blanket, looking around the room. "I could really use a cigarette, though."

Kaos frowned in disapproval, her pen stopping on the clipboard. "I'm afraid smoking indoors is against hospital policy, your Majesty, especially considering your condition."

Maeve gave her a curious look. "How bad is it?"

"Were you not told?"

"About what?"

Maeve listened as two words were uttered by the physician, causing her eyes to widen in shock. Two words caused her heart to completely stop, her breath hitched in her chest as she stared at the physician, trying to comprehend what she had been told.

Two simple words caused Maeve's world to turn upside down, shaking her to her very core.

"...Are you...are you sure?" Maggie said in an uncharacteristically quiet voice.

Dr. Kaos wrote on her clipboard. "We'll need to double-check, but from the blood tests that we have taken, we're fairly positive it's true."

"Does...does Mr. Edgar know?"

The physician nodded, causing Maggie's mouth to feel dry.

Once Dr. Kaos had finished examining her and took some blood samples, Maggie found herself all alone in the recovery room, her mind still struggling to comprehend the news.

Looking down to her stomach, her hand felt along her abdomen, the celebrity trailing her gaze over to the bone necklace that she wore.

Lifting the item up, the celebrity stared longingly at it as she shed a tear, planting an affectionate kiss on the large tusk itself before pulling it away from her mouth, her hand still holding it fondly over her heart.

As she lay back on the bed, Maggie allowed her mind to drift back to that hateful island and its lonely occupant, the former owner of the necklace. Wiping her eyes, she held onto the long ivory tooth, never letting go, even as she felt herself drifting off to sleep.

* * * * *

Four weeks later...

"Come in."

Stepping into Edgar's office with his secretary, an Asian woman in a dark shirt and skirt with shoulder-length hair, Maeve studied her surroundings.

Greeting her was a long white room with four full-sized windows lining the sides, all of them barred by three white metal X bracings in front of them. Mounted on the wall at one end of the room to Maeve's left was a widescreen TV that had a stereo nestled beside a pair of gold framed paintings, both of which depicted a dark ship out at sea. Filling the rest of the office were two long brown leather couches and chairs with a coffee table in between, along with some fancy furnishings, while at the far end of the room a pair of large lamps were positioned parallel to an Italian Maple desk. Standing with his back turned was Stan Edgar as he stared out through the window at the other end behind the desk, his black-suited form standing out from the white room.

Beside him, a large portrait of Frederick Vought watched on with clasped fingers, watching everything through his painted eyes.

"Your nine-o'clock appointment is here, sir," the secretary nodded.

"Thank you, Samantha," Edgar said without turning around.

As the door closed behind her, the celebrity hero cleared her throat, announcing her presence.

"You wanted to speak with me, Mr. Edgar?" she said slowly.

"Yes," he nodded without turning to address her. "Would you like some coffee?"

She shook her head. "No thank you."

"Are you sure?"

Maeve nodded. "I'm fine, thanks," she said.

"Very well then. Please take a seat."

Slipping into one of the chairs, Maeve crossed her legs as she allowed herself to settle comfortably back into the leather.

Standing by the window, the CEO held his arms behind his, staring through the glass. "You are aware of why have I called for this meeting, don't you?"

Maeve shook her head. "Not really, sir. What is this about?"

Edgar was silent for a long time, his face betraying nothing in his reflection.

"Homelander...has been noticeably absent," he stated as he took off his glasses, pulling out a cloth from his pocket as he started to clean his lenses. "We have been attempting to locate his chip for quite a while, but so far, we haven't been able to find anything. Not even Black Noir is able to find him, curiously enough. You wouldn't know anything about that, would you?"

Maeve brushed her bangs back, shrugging. "I don't."

"Are you sure?" he pressed, his eyes glancing up at the window, his reflection staring directly at her from the glass.

Even with his back turned, his eyes made Maggie self-conscious as she sought to remain in control, the celebrity giving him a slow shake of her head as she feigned ignorance.

Maeve felt his intense eyes scrutinize her with a harsh intensity, making her feel like a small child who inadvertently found itself in the presence of a wolf.

Placing his glasses on his desk, Edgar adjusted his tie before turning around to face her directly. Upon seeing his eyes, Maggie felt herself involuntarily stiffen. Even though Edgar wasn't superpowered - at least, as far as she were aware - she found herself intimidated regardless. Even though she could easily bench-press him, she couldn't help feeling smaller than him. Less powerful than him.

Edgar kept his eyes focused on Maggie for a long while before finally settling down into his seat, his fingers clasped together in front of him, his eyes locked onto her own, watching her every move with keen interest.

"Let's put all of our cards on the table, shall we?" he said patiently. "Homelander won't be coming back anytime soon."

"What makes you say that?"

He scoffed, giving her an unimpressed look. "Please. To miss five scheduled interviews, an autograph signing, a speech for the Golden Globes, and a commercial shoot? Even if assuming he were feeling sentimental about Stormfront, I know Homelander well enough as a person, and for him to be a no-show is extremely out of character even for him. Homelander is dead, isn't he?"

Edgar's voice was so calm and controlled, so casual and dismissive that part of her couldn't help feeling caught off-guard. She knew that he was a remorseless bastard, but to not show an ounce of any kind of emotion whatsoever? Not even an ounce of outrage or anger?

Maeve felt her mouth become dry, the celebrity hero trying to keep up her strong persona as she found herself being frozen to the spot by Edgar's overwhelmingly unnerving stare, put off by its intensity.

He kept his eyes locked on her, giving her an expectant look as he waited for her crumble.

Finally, the celebrity sighed, relenting. "I... don't know."

Edgar silently sat at his desk, his dark eyes staring deeply into her own. "Did you kill him?" he asked calmly.

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, a frown forming.

The CEO raised a placating hand, "It is perfectly fine, Maeve. You're not in any sort of trouble. I am just simply looking for the truth. Did you kill Homelander? Just answer honestly."

Looking around anxiously, Maeve bit her lower lip, then sighed. "I...I didn't," she admitted. "I...I wanted to, though."

"Do you know what happened to him?"

The celebrity hero drummed her fingers along the armrest. Turning her attention over to the painting of Frederick Vought, she stared at it for a long time.

Sighing, she shook her head. "No. I have no idea where he is."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure."

Maeve felt Edgar's eyes patiently watching her from behind his desk, his fingers clasped in front of his chest.

"What happened out there?" he pressed.

Maeve stared at the painting for several minutes.

Smiling, she scoffed, shaking her head. "I...I honestly have no idea. I can't really remember much of what happened following the plane crash."

The CEO eyed her, his expression cold and stony.

Turning his attention the painting, he nodded. "Were you aware that Frederick had been afraid of the ocean?"

Blinking in surprise, Maeve turned to face him, startled by the admission. "Huh?"

Adjusting his tie, Edgar stared fixedly at the painting. "Frederick had been involved in a boating accident many years ago," he said slowly. "He had been lost at sea for several days, drifting in the water. When he had been found, Frederick had been delusional, claiming to have landed on an island. He hadn't said where it was located, nor had he indicated what it was even called. Whatever had happened out there, it had changed him. Scared him badly."

The CEO's eyes were completely fixed on Maeve, making her feel uncomfortable.

"When we found you," he continued, "you were lying in a row boat, covered with a fur coat. We've had analysts study it, but all of our tests have been deemed...inconclusive. You were also found with an object that had been identified as a fishing spear. One that, according to reports, is of a type that hasn't been used since the Viking Age."

He leaned forward, his eyes levelled with hers. "Now, let's try again. Tell me everything that you know."

Maeve anxiously bit her lower lip, the celebrity feeling small under Edgar's intense gaze. Swallowing, she shook her head. "After the crash, I found myself in the water. The boat was just...there, floating upside down. I'm guessing it had been stored somewhere onboard, so I just flipped it back up."

"Did you really?" he drawled, looking unconvinced.

"Yeah!" Maeve barked back. "There were pieces of luggage floating everywhere. I saw a spear protruding out from one of those floating bags, and since nobody was around to use either, I took the boat and bag for myself. My life was on the line out there, and if I hadn't been for that boat and spear, I would have died. So I gathered whatever supplies I could."

Edgar stared in silence, looking unsympathetic and unmoved by what she had to say.

Finally, he spoke again. "This is the story that you're sticking with?"

She nodded. "Damn straight I am! I have no idea what the fuck has happened to Homelander - he can burn in hell for all I care. I have paid my dues to this company. I have done everything that had been required of me to get where I am, even in spite of the sacrifices that I have made. I am, and always have been, a good employee. You have no reason to doubt me."

Edgar silently sat opposite of her, his demeanor calm even in spite of her angry outburst, the man not even flinching at her sharp words.

Maeve wasn't sure if he had believed her or not, for his expression was unreadably neutral, so utterly composed.

Finally, he shrugged. "Very well then," Edgar said simply before giving a conceding nod. "My apologies if I have inadvertently offended you, Maeve. The plane crash had undoubtedly been a deeply distressing and traumatic experience for you. Have you had the opportunity to consult with either HR or Counselling Services?"

Maeve nodded, feeling slightly relaxed, although part of her remained on edge. "I've been seeing a therapist."

"Good."

"Is there anything else?"

"Yes." He then leaned forward from his seat. "It has also been brought to my attention that you are...pregnant." Edgar gave her a curious look. "Who's the father?"

Maeve tucked some bangs behind her ear. "I have no idea," she lied. "It could have been from one of the bodybuilders I had been with."

Edgar's stare remained calm and neutral, giving no indication as to whether or not he believed her. Shifting in his chair, he continued, "You are aware of the complications your pregnancy poses, especially in light of the fact that this goes against your public image and standing with the LGTBQ community."

Maeve frowned. Of course he was going to bring that up.

Crossing her legs, she kept herself composed. "So?"

"What do you intend to do?"

Part of her wanted to roll her eyes at his expectant tone. It sounded like a father confronting his own child over their own wrongdoing, one that expected them to admit fault.

Folding her arms across her chest, Maeve lifted her chin. "I'm going to keep it."

Edgar remained neutral, his features unwavering, though his brow raised slightly, almost imperceptibly. "Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Hm. Curious. Given the number of men you had slept with and the number of abortions you have had, it seems odd that you decided only now to keep this one. This..."bodybuilder" must have been someone who had made quite an impression on you." He then tilted his head to the side, somewhat intrigued. "What has prompted this change?"

"Because after all the shit I've been through, I feel like at this point I've earned my keep," she challenged. "I am not going to abort this one, nor am I going to give it up."

Edgar gave her a steady look. "You are aware, Maeve, that if you intend on going through with this, your employment at Vought will be terminated on the basis of your breaching the morality clause within your contract?"

Maeve shrugged. "That's fine. In fact, I'll save us both the trouble by retiring from The Seven. I've been meaning to for quite some time now, and with Homelander gone, now seems like the perfect time for me to get out."

He tilted his head ever so slightly. "Do you now?"

"Yeah. I've been saving up, so the child will be well taken care of and provided for for a very long time. The only things I want from you, though, are my severance package, a strong reference letter just in case, and your assurance that nobody - and I mean nobody - will come after us." As she placed emphasis on the word "nobody", Maeve narrowed her eyes as she continued, speaking in a low, threatening voice, her teeth bared, "If I get so much of a whiff of either some supe or supe team, your Red River operatives, those G-pricks, or that freak Black Noir anywhere near me or my kid, I swear I'll leak every compromising detail to the media."

The CEO calmly and quietly stared at her, unnerving her slightly. Rather than looking threatened, he merely gave her an amused smirk, his eyes glinting.

Letting out a low, dry chuckle, he regarded her in a sort of patronizing way.

"Really, Maeve. Threats?" " he chided. The CEO then clucked his tongue in disapproval, shaking his head. "You should know better than that."

As Maeve stared into his cold eyes, the celebrity couldn't help finding herself reminded of something. She couldn't put her finger on what exactly it was, but something was triggering an uncanny sensation, a strange sense of something.....familiar.....in the way he looked at her.

'Where have I seen that look before?' she wondered.

That inexplicable sense of familiarity and the uncanny lingered, and every time she tried to think back, she kept drawing a blank. And yet, for some reason unknown to her, that sensation caused her flesh to prickle and form goosebumps.

From the opposite side of the desk, Edgar kept silent, his dark eyes staring down at her.

"I have to say," he said slowly, "I am rather surprised by the change in your manner and approach. Is it really necessary, let alone wise, to threaten your own employer? You of all people should know that you have a lot to lose, Ms. Shaw. Perhaps even more so with this child on the way."

The words lingered uneasily between them. The more Maeve sat there before him, the more she felt herself shrink, the celebrity starting to regret what she had done.

Edgar shook his head. "There wasn't any need to resort to threats, Maeve. If we had wanted to make your life difficult, we could have just as easily fired you for cause and denied you access to your child when it was born. After all, given your history with alcohol and substance abuse, along with your various...other activities involving multiple partners, male and female, a court isn't likely to find you to be a fit mother."

The CEO then smiled pleasantly. "But fortunately for you, Maeve, I am willing to look past and forgive this momentary lapse of judgement on your part, especially in light of the circumstances you were in. No one here is looking to cause you any harm or deprivation. It is in everyone's best interests, yours and mine, to avoid any public scrutiny or potential embarrassment." He then gave her a serious look. "Are you sure that this is what you want, Maeve? Think very carefully about this matter. If you leave, all of the privileges that you currently enjoy now will be revoked, including potential health and dental benefits. You will no longer be able to work as a member of The Seven."

Maggie hesitated as Edgar's words lingered.

'Am I really going to be able to go through with this?' she wondered worriedly.

As much as she wanted to be free from The Seven and from Vought, taking that next step was a scary thought, for she would be leaving behind everything. Even if she had found a job, none of them would compare to what she had before, nor would they bring as much fulfilment or sense of financial security this position had.

Ever since Maggie had been little, it had been her dream to be the richest and most beautiful woman in the world.

Was she really going to give all of that up for a child? Was she really that brave or selfless?

There was no guarantee that she would be a good parent, nor was there any guarantee what the future held for them, and that frightened her. That lack of control petrified her.

Edgar watched her from behind his desk, his stoic face watching her carefully. "I get the sense that you are feeling conflicted right now," he remarked. "Why don't you take the next twenty-four hours to think over this matter carefully, if not consult with your agent and lawyer, then, when you are ready, you can contact me by phone or email your decision-"

"I want to go through with this," Maeve asserted.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes," she nodded. "I think it's time that Maeve retired from The Seven and stood on her own two feet for once."

The CEO said nothing for a long time, his eyes boring deep into hers with an unusual intensity.

Finally, he gave a slight nod. "Alright. If that is what you want, then, as a gesture of good will, I am willing to accept your terms. However, this will have to come with some strings attached."

"I figured as much," Maeve remarked as she absentmindedly tucked some bangs behind her ear. "What is it you that you want?"

"If I am to agree to this, I want an NDA signed along with a non-disparaging agreement. All matters pertaining to The Seven, Vought and/or its practices will be kept strictly confidential, while the non-disparaging agreement will be kept in place to ensure that neither party makes defamatory remarks about the other to the public."

"Will this be in writing?"

"Naturally," he assured as he made notes. "I will need to consult with the other members of the Board and my attorney about this, of course, plus a press conference will need to be held, but subject to any change in circumstances, I see no reason why this agreement shouldn't be upheld." He then held out his hand. "Do we have a deal?"

Maeve looked at the outstretched hand, then looked back to its owner. Taking hold, she shook, nodding in approval. "I can do that."

"Excellent. I'll be sure to have the agreements drafted and ready for you to sign. Until the documents are ready, however, you can resume with your work here. You will have thirty days' notice to vacate from your apartment in Vought Tower and collect whatever property you have. In addition, you will also be paid the remainder of what is owed. Is there anything else you wish to discuss? Any concerns?"

The celebrity hero shook her head. "No, I think that's about it."

"Very well then." Hearing a knock at the door, Edgar turned his head. "Come in."

Turning in her seat, she watched as the secretary entered the room with an unidentified Caucasian man beside her.

"I'm sorry to interrupt, Mr. Edgar," Samantha nodded apologetically, "but your new assistant has arrived."

"Thank you, Samantha. That will be all." Turning his attention over to the man, the CEO smiled as he got up from his chair to greet him. "Good morning, James. Great to see you again. Welcome. Did you have a good flight?"

"It was pleasant," the man lightly remarked as he approached and shook Edgar's hand, his voice a dull, droning monotone, his face stoic.

Looking over at this unexpected new visitor, Maeve studied him curiously. The man was tall, about six feet, and in his thirties, wearing a tawny brown suit with a white shirt and a blue tie.

"Who's this?" Maeve asked, drawing both men's attention to her.

"Ah! Where are my manners?" Edgar said, as if just remembering as he turned around to face her, gesturing to his companion, "Allow me to introduce my new assistant, James Stillwell."

Maeve furrowed her brows as the aforementioned man turned to look at her, hesitating at the name. "'Stillwell', you say?"

"Yes," Edgar nodded. "He is Madelyn's brother, may she rest in peace."

The celebrity hero blinked, her mind still trying to process the information.

"Her brother?" she said in surprise.

"Indeed. James here has been proving himself to be something of a prodigy, a rising young star with enormous talent and promise, in my opinion. His work in Boston has been nothing short of phenomenal, and for that reason, I have the utmost confidence in his abilities. Starting today, James will be joining us here at Vought Tower."

Stillwell gave a single nod of acknowledgment. "How do you do?"

Turning her attention over to him, Maeve studied the man before her.

Although Stillwell was handsome, with short parted brown hair, thick dark eyebrows, a short hook nose, and a pair of beady, squinty eyes, something about him creeped her out. He wasn't deformed...and yet...she couldn't help feeling put off by him for some reason.

Scrutinizing him from top to bottom, Maeve studied every detail of his person, then lifted her eyes to meet his, only to suddenly pause.

In life, Madelyn was a complete and utter bitch, so utterly ruthless in her ambition, but this man who Edgar proclaimed to be her brother...even though he had a calm and collected expression on his face, something about him caused Maeve to tense up. The way he looked at her was so unnervingly flat, cold and uncaring, so utterly disinterested and apathetic.

If she were being honest with herself, she wouldn't be surprised if the guy was secretly an axe murderer, a serial killer, or something along those lines. Whoever this "James Stillwell" was, one thing was certain about him - Maeve was absolutely terrified of him.

As if sensing her discomfort, Edgar raised a brow. "Is something the matter, Maeve?"

Swallowing, Maeve shrugged as she tried to play it off nonchalantly. "N-No, sir. Just a little surprised. I had no idea that Madelyn had a brother." Looking over at Stillwell, she gave a sympathetic nod. "I'm sorry for your loss."

"Thank you," Stillwell dryly replied, his face unreadable, though looking completely unmoved by the sentiment, if not bored. "We weren't close, but regardless, your condolences are appreciated just the same."

Christ, what the hell is wrong with this guy?!

Madelyn was a cold-hearted bitch, but her brother...he was on a whole other fucking level, if such a thing were even possible! The way he spoke made it seem as if they were casually discussing the weather. Even though he had lost a family member, he didn't seem even remotely bothered at all.

It was almost like the man had ice in his veins. So...cold-blooded.

A family trait, part of her supposed, but still, between him and Madelyn, Maeve found herself far more creeped out and intimidated by him than his sister, and that was saying something!

Stillwell quietly stared at her, his beady eyes locked on her own. He didn't look at her with any sort of lewd or romantic interest like a lot of men tended to; if anything, he was he just looking at her as if she was some novel item in a museum or something. Like a fly buzzing around.

Finally, he looked back to Edgar, causing Maeve to release a breath that she hadn't realized that she had been holding in. "Have I come at a bad time?"

Edgar shook his head. "Not all, James. Maeve and I were just concluding out business. You can see yourself out."

Maeve nodded. "Thank you for your time, sir."

Leaving the office, Maeve kept on walking, her heart thudding hard and loud in her ears and chest, her stomach doing so many flips that she felt like she was going to throw up.

Getting on the elevator, she waited until the doors closed. Once she was certain they were shut, her whole body shook and trembled violently, the celebrity hero raising a hand to her mouth to keep herself from vomiting. Grabbing onto a side rail for support, Maggie steadied herself, wincing at the burning taste as nausea set in.

God, had she been so nervous this entire time?

Looking at her shaking hand, Maeve leaned back against the wall, closing her eyes as she tried to get herself back under control.

Swallowing in disgust, she wiped her sweaty forehead as she panted.

She couldn't believe it! She was actually going to do it - she was actually going to leave the company. Leave The Seven!

Letting out an incredulous laugh, Maggie shook her head in disbelief. If anyone had told her years ago that she was going to leave The Seven, she would have called them crazy.

Hell, part of her couldn't help wondering if she actually was crazy, for the idea of someone, anyone, doing such a thing was ridiculous.

To leave behind such a lifestyle? To leave behind so much fame and money? How crazy was that? The idea of anyone doing it was insane!

Batshit crazy!

Taking in a deep breath, Maeve collected her nerves and stood tall, the elevator stopping at her destination.

She didn't know what the future held for her, and in all honesty, the uncertainty terrified her.

And yet, for the first time in ages, Maggie felt something that she hadn't felt in a very, very long time.

Hope.

Reaching up to grasp the bone necklace that she wore, Maeve affectionately thumbed the long tusk, her eyes softening as she planted a kiss on the necklace before hiding it away under her bustier.

Finally, the elevator doors opened. Taking in another deep breath again, Maeve steeled herself, then took her first decisive step forward.

* * * * *

Author's Notes: Sorry for the late update, guys and gals. I had been experiencing some technical difficulties which had resulted in losing about ninety percent of my work. As such, I had to rewrite what I had already written. :(

Just one more chapter, and then this story will be done, although admittedly I am very, VERY tempted to do a bonus chapter based on the Deep, but I'm not sure if that is something that you would all want to see or not. Let me know what your thoughts are on the subject.

Until next time, take care, and stay safe and healthy, everyone! :D