Though dawn’s approaching light threatened to take away the darkness, the huntress could feel it seeping into her bones. A chill worked its way down her spine, icy tendrils clinging to her very core, leaving her feeling empty and cold. While instinct within her pleaded for her to flee, Hendrix stood her ground. She had a mission to complete and nothing, short of death, would stop her now.
Lopez knew the demon was near before he allowed his steps to be heard, muscles tensing in preparation for the time that lay ahead of them. Her heart ached, breaking at the familiar sense of home that washed over her with his presence. Her body and heart recognized him as the man that watched over her, teaching her to be strong while her mind reminded her of the danger that resided within her former friend.
“Wasn’t sure you’d show.” The hunter prayed that her voice didn’t sound as weak as she believed, that he couldn’t spot the shudder of her body when she spun to face him, catching sight of his obsidian eyes in the warm candle lit glow around them. The shadows dancing with each candle’s flame seemed to darken, appearing more menacing with the simple presence of the demon.
There was a moment of hesitation before she stepped closer, though she kept herself just out of reach. The brunette knew that he could see just how unarmed she was, how reckless she was being with only a small flask of holy water at hand, but she didn’t need any more. Even if he felt the need to strike, her plan would remain in motion. “I --” She paused, gaze dropping away for a moment. She had it all planned out, she’d been ready. Yet now she couldn’t find the words, the one thing that would keep him talking and interested, keep him in place until all was ready.
“I don’t think I can do this. I can’t look at you and say goodbye.” Her rich brown hues met his dark gaze and she held her head high, hoping to portray a confidence she didn’t entirely feel. “I know what happened to you. I know that you’re not -- not dead. Not really. And you know that, too. You’re still in there, no matter how much you want to deny it.” No, no, no! She wasn’t suppose to lose herself in this moment, but her lips continued to move, emotions spilling out of her freely. And she knew that -- very soon - she’d come to regret it. “A part of you is still in there. You wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t. You wouldn’t care about the words of a stupid little human unless there was something in there that reminded you of what we had. Why is it so easy for you to simply give in? You’re a fighter, Gage. And that’s what you need to do. Fight.”