Wrapped in Chains

by Poison_Flames

Summary:

Mostly AU
Before Kirsty found the box, there was another. Hailey has suffered abuse from her boyfriend, but finds that a musical golden box may be her way out. But the unexpected happens. She becomes entranced with the Hell Priest of the Labyrinth. An attraction is formed, linking them together. Could he be the soulmate she has been searching for so long?

Terrible summary. Better story. Please R&R

Notes:

I do not own Hellraiser or any of the characters associated with it. I only own my characters. Warnings are in the tags. If you don't like, do not read.

Chapter 1

"Come on baby."

"I don't want to."

"I said let's go."

Hailey Cross was jerked forward by her boyfriend, Dean Waters. She looked up at the apartment building he was pulling her to. It was large and looked run-down, like no one had lived there for a while. It looked like in those movies where drug addicted people lived. She could smell cigarette smoke and beer the moment she walked into the building and into the first room. The place had torn down walls to make it a lot larger, similar to a house inside. She really didn't want to be there, but her boyfriend dragged her along anyways.

"Come meet my buddy. You're always hiding away," said Dean. "Can't have a pretty thing like you hiding away. I'm not that selfish to keep you all to myself."

Hailey rolled her eyes. She didn't realize how controlling Dean was. After tonight, she was so ending it with him. He was abusive as well, and she wasn't standing for it anymore. Dean pushed her down into a chair before he took his seat next to a couple chicks that were practically naked.

"Glad you could join us."

Hailey's eyes shifted to the man who spoke. He was smoking a cigarette, blowing the smoke in her direction.

"How could I miss on this little party?" Dean asked. "So, where is it Rob?"

"Right here," the man known as Rob said, setting a wooden box down. "Picked this beauty up earlier. I'm told if we open it, all our desires will come true."

"Sounds promising," said Dean. "But how?"

"I don't fucking know," said Rob. "But where's the fun without the adventure. These two hotties are going to open it with us."

"Oh yeah?" Dean asked, leaning forward and groping one of their breasts. "They sure look ripe."

"So does your little girlfriend," Rob said, trying to reach over to touch her.

"Don't even," Hailey said, pulling away.

"Come on baby. Have a little fun. You're wound way too tight. Let us loosen you up a bit," said Dean, pulling her over.

"No," Hailey said. "Do anything to me, any of you, and I'm leaving."

"Spoiled brat," Dean growled, backhanding her. "Sit there like the dumb bitch you are."

Hailey did so. She knew if she tried to leave on her own, Dean would make it so she stayed. It is how he was. Rob put out his cigarette, took a swig of beer, and fiddled with the box he had pulled out. He was entranced by the gold inlay of it. The two girls and Dean got in on it too, all of them rubbing over a surface of it. Dean's side clicked as he pushed a button, a soft tinkling musical note coming from it. Hailey watched in disgust, but the song held her attention. She was content just sitting there.

The box lit up, making all four drop it. The box split, half of it raising up, and changed shape when it went back down. Hailey gripped the chair as the room shook, a strange blue light coming through. She flipped her hands up, getting off the chair and going to crouch in a corner. Something was wrong. The hair on her arms and the back of her neck stood up. She thought back to how she even ended up in this mess.

:0:

Hailey looked around the new apartment she just got. She had moved to New York after getting her inheritance from her parents, who both unfortunately died in a freak accident. Their plane had gone down, yet they were the only ones killed. Not like Hailey minded much. She wasn't too fond of her parents, and she was an only child. Not like they paid much attention to her anyways. They were really rich from their jobs, but they were always working.

"Hey, you must be the new neighbor."

Hailey looked behind her to see a tall man with ripped muscles. His face was like a baby, smooth and hairless. He swept his bangs out of his eyes, gazing into her own.

"And you are?" Hailey asked, trailing off a bit with some attitude.

"Sassy," the man said. "Name's Dean Waters. I live just across from you. Need any help getting things in?"

"Oh, uh sure," Hailey said, giving a curt nod.

"Lead the way," said Dean.

Hailey took him down to the moving truck. She didn't have a whole lot, and she would get whatever she needed when she settled in. She really didn't need a job with all the money she had, but she was going to get one anyways. Something hopefully close by. She did see a bar was hiring, so maybe she would try there.

"There's not much," said Hailey.

"I'll grab the mattress then," said Dean, hopping in and grabbing the mattress. "I'll come back for the frame."

Hailey nodded, grabbing some boxes that were left. She had gotten a majority of them already in throughout the day. It took about half an hour between her and Dean to get everything inside her apartment.

"Thanks again Dean," said Hailey. "Oh, I forgot to tell you my name. I'm Hailey Cross."

"Nice to meet you," said Dean. "And don't sweat it. If you need anything else, just let me know."

"I will," said Hailey.

The woman turned back to the boxes after her neighbor left. She was glad that most of the place was already furnished with a couch, kitchen table, and other things. She got to unpacking after ordering a pizza. She would go out grocery shopping tomorrow. Just because she was rich, didn't mean she liked to show it off by going fancy. Living like a normal person was just fine.

It didn't take long for there to be a knock at the door. Hailey looked up, grabbing some money from her wallet. She opened the door, revealing the pizza delivery girl.

"That'll be $12.50," the girl said.

"Alright," said Hailey. She pulled it out as well as a $40 dollar tip. "Here you go. Keep the rest as a tip."

"Really?" the girl asked.

"Yeah of course. You guys don't get tipped or paid enough," said Hailey. "Enjoy the rest of your night and stay safe."

"Thank you," she said, heading off.

Hailey smiled, taking her pizza into the kitchen. She ate a few slices before putting the rest in the fridge for her breakfast. She looked at the pile of flattened boxes an then the rest she had to do.

"I'll do it tomorrow," Hailey muttered. "I need sleep."

Hailey headed to the bathroom, brushing her teeth. She then just went straight to her bed, getting into it and falling asleep. Tomorrow was a busy day.

:0:

"Well, if it isn't Miss Cross herself."

Hailey perked up at her name. She turned around from looking at the apples to find a man in his late 30s standing there. His body was covered in tattoos that she could see running up his arms and disappearing under his clothes. She noted that the tattoos were knew. But other than that, he looked the same.

"Harry," Hailey greeted, setting down the apple and giving him a hug. "Oh it is good to see you again."

"The same to you," said Harry. "I wasn't expecting to see you around."

"I just moved into the area," said Hailey. "Needed to get away from where my parents were living and all that. I feel free after they died."

"I did hear something about that. How are you holding up?" Harry asked.

"I'm doing okay," said Hailey.

"That's good. We may not be together anymore, but you're still important to me," Harry said.

"So how is the occult detective life treating you? I see you got tats," said Hailey.

"Yeah, they were done by a friend of mine. They are arcane tattoos, you know to let me sense when there's evil nearby and some protection when it comes to magic. The shit I've seen is insane," Harry said. "I can see what you mean by freaky demons that you've seen with whatever gifts you have."

"I can believe that. We'll have to grab a coffee or something," said Hailey.

"That sounds like a plan to me," said Harry. "My number is the same, so I'm sure you still have it."

"Yep, I always will," said Hailey. "Mine is the same too."

"Good. I need to get back to work. I'm on another case about mysterious disappearances," said Harry. "They think magic is involved, so the boss has me on the case. People have been going missing for a while all over. Neighbors will complain of screaming, but when the cops show up, there's no one there."

"Sounds exciting," Hailey said. "Well you stay your ass safe. Otherwise I'll have to hunt you down and kick it for you."

Harry laughed at that.

"Then I'll hold you to it," said Harry. "Don't worry, I'll be safe. But you do the same Hails. I don't want you hurt or disappeared too."

"I will," said Hailey.

Harry gave her one last hug before he left. Hailey went back to getting her some apples before she headed to the checkout. She felt her phone buzz at her as she got a text. She checked it real fast, seeing it was Harry.

'Send me your address.'

Hailey did so, knowing she could trust Harry. She hadn't seen him for at least a year or two. She lost track of time of that. But she was sure it had been at least two years since she was now 22 and they broke up after two years shortly after she turned 20. They kept in contact when she needed someone to talk to when he wasn't working on his cases.

Hailey quickly got her groceries, heading out to her car. She wanted to just get home and finish unpacking, then relax before her job interview at the bar at the corner of the street. They were desperate for someone to apply, so she was sure she will get it.

Chapter 2

Notes:

There will be a time skip in this one, then another major time skip in the next chapter. I'm not going to hit too much on the beginning of the relationship, but rather the middle and ending of it to help the story along. And I don't have too much plans with Dean.

...a few weeks later...

"Okay Tom, time to go," Hailey said. "I already called a cab for you."

"Thanks," Tom said, getting help out of his stool at the bar.

Hailey helped the regular into the cab, giving the driver some money and telling him the address for Tom. She then turned back into the bar, wiping down the rest of the tables, locking up the alcohol, and grabbing her coat.

"Alright Geena, I'm heading out," Hailey called out to her boss.

"Have a good one Hailey," her boss said from the office.

"You too," said Hailey.

The woman left the bar, walking down to the apartment building down the street. She headed up to her floor, opening up her door. But she was shocked to see Dean was there waiting near her door.

"Hey," Dean greeted.

"Hello Dean," Hailey said.

"Mind if I asked you something?" Dean asked.

"Uh, sure," Hailey said. "What's up?"

"Would you be willing to go out with me?" Dean asked bluntly. "I find you really pretty. And I would like to take you out some time."

"Well, yeah we can try it," said Hailey.

"You seem a little nervous. Ever dated before or had a boyfriend?" Dean asked.

"Yeah I've dated someone before," said Hailey.

"Good. You didn't seem like you have before," said Dean. "I'll pick you up tomorrow night. We'll go out."

"Okay," Hailey said. "Well, I better get to bed. Goodnight, Dean."

"Goodnight, Hailey," he said, heading into his own apartment.

Hailey went into hers, shutting the door and locking it. She wasn't quite sure with Dean, but he seemed nice. No harm in going on a date or two. If only she knew what dangers lied ahead.

Hailey went to her bed, kicking off her shoes. She didn't bother brushing her teeth that night or getting into pajamas. She was too tired to deal with much. She worked a double shift at the bar, so it was understandable she was tired.

"Give me another," a man said, his British accent coming through.

"I think you've had too much buddy," the bartender said. "You've been here for a few hours Elliot for the past three months straight. It isn't healthy."

"Just one more. Please," the man said.

"Fine. One more, then that's it," the bartender relented, filling up the glass with more alcohol.

The man took it, swigging it back. He took out some money, setting it down on the bar before he left. He went to his flat, managing to make it without passing out. He laid on the sofa, pulling out a needle and a bottle. He injected himself with the liquid, drugging himself. He looked like he had been through Hell and back. The medals displayed on the mantle above the fireplace made him scowl. He was lucky to have survived the war. The men he led weren't so lucky. Most of them died, others came out with injuries that would disable them for life.

"Where are you?" Elliot asked, looking at the mark on his wrist and tracing it in his haze of drugs.

He left his home, traveling away, to get away from what had destroyed him. He looked for anything to numb it all. Pleasures of the flesh, drink, drugs, whatever it took. But it wasn't enough. It was never enough.

Elliot sat in a mostly empty bunker. On the bed behind him was old war clothing from the first World War. He wore British clothing, yet the area seemed to be somewhere in India or around that region. Elliot looked at the marking on his wrist. Hailey recognized it, as she had the same marking on her same wrist. From what her grandmother had said, it was supposed to match her soulmate.

He picked up a box laying in front of him, the radio behind tuning into whatever radio waves it could pick up. He turned the box over in his hands, the gold plating glinting in the light. Hailey was entranced by the box, watching the way he fingered at it to open it.

He pushed a button on the side, watching as part of it slid up and out towards him. The box sparked when he moved his thumb over the circle, making him drop it. He backed against the bed, frightened for just a mere moment.

But he went closer when the box returned to normal from the unique position it moved itself in. As he crept closer, he was faintly aware of the strange lights coming into the bunker, pale blue and soft. He looked at an opening in the box, screaming as hooks shot out attached to chains, digging into his flesh and drawing blood.

Hailey looked around as the area went dark. She got cold and felt goosebumps form on her arms. She heard the screaming again, looking to see Elliot being tortured, blood splattering everywhere. He went pale with tinges of blue. Lines were intersected onto his hairless head, the tentacles doing the damage inserting nails into where the lines crossed. Blood poured down his face, filling his mouth and staining his teeth red.

Hailey jolted awake, the dream already fading from her mind. She was sweating badly, and her breathing became labored. She looked around, curling up and holding herself. She looked down at the mark on her wrist, tracing a finger over it. The man's face she had seen in her dream, this Elliot, was her soulmate. But he looked like he survived in a different timeline. So, he was probably dead by now. But what had happened to him?

Hailey looked at her phone. It was only 4 in the morning. She wiped her hand over her face, getting rid of the cold sweat. She shivered, pulling the blankets back over her. She heard her phone buzz, looking at the small screen light up from the text message. She opened it with a double tap.

'Are you okay?'

'Harry. How did you know I wasn't?'

'Come on Hail. I know you. And I just got a feeling.'

'Just a dream.'

'Want to talk about it? I got time if you want to call.'

'Sure.'

Hailey pushed the call button, letting it ring for a moment. She put it on speaker, so she didn't have to hold the phone.

"So, what is this dream?"

"The same one I've had for a while. The one about my soulmate," said Hailey.

"The one about the soldier?"

"Yeah, the same one. Only there was more. He had this weird box thing. And when it opened, these chains shot out with hooks at the end. It dragged him someplace, and he was tortured," said Hailey. "It's probably just a stupid nightmare."

"I'm sure your soulmate is somewhere."

"I'm sure you're right, Harry," said Hailey, clearing her throat since it sounded rough.

"You should try to get more sleep."

"Yeah, alright," said Hailey. "Thanks, Harry."

"No problem, Hail."

She heard the call disconnect. She put it down, snuggling up into the teddy bear that Harry had given her on Valentine's Day when they first dated. It always gave her comfort. She wasn't sure how Harry knew, but she was glad he had texted. He was a really good friend to her, even if they weren't together anymore. He was just meant to be in her life.

She fell asleep rather quickly. Her mind was exhausted more than her body. She was glad she didn't have work.

Chapter 3

...7 months later...

Hailey saw stars in her vision as her head slammed against the wall. She groaned, trying to get her balance back. Dean had come home drunk, immediately wanting to get it on with her. But Hailey refused in the state he was in.

"Want to try that again?" Dean asked, whipping out his fully erected cock.

"I said no," Hailey growled, not going to stand for his bullshit any longer.

"Your mistake," Dean said, grabbing Hailey by the hair.

He dragged her kicking and screaming to the bedroom of their shared apartment. He was surprisingly still much stronger than her, even in his impaired state. Hailey squirmed and tried to break free, but Dean grabbed the handcuffs he kept close by. He cuffed her to the bed before shoving a ring gag into her mouth. He then forced his cock into her mouth, fondling her and ripping her clothes off.

Hailey coughed, moving her head to the side. Her mind went blank, trying to think of something else other than this. She was vaguely aware of what Dean was doing to her. She couldn't fight him off. She wasn't strong enough for that. Tears streamed down her face when he was finally done, passing out right next to her and leaving the woman cuffed and gagged, naked and cold.

This isn't the first time he's done this. Nor would it be the last until she could get out of there. She found shortly that he was an abusive, controlling man. Every chance he got he would smack her around and remind her that he was in control. He threatened to kill her and anyone she told if she spoke about what he was doing.

'Please... help me... somebody...,' Hailey thought.

Morning crept around slowly. She was stiff and uncomfortable from the position she had been left in. After some time, Hailey managed to get a hand free, even cutting herself on the cuffs to get free. She grabbed her clothes, a duffle bag she kept hidden, her wallet, keys, and phone. She then got dressed and headed out of the apartment, dialing a number.

"Hello?"

"Harry... it's me... I need help...," Hailey stuttered.

"Where are you at?"

"My apartment building. I'll be down in the parking lot," said Hailey.

"Okay. Give me a few and I'll be there. Don't move."

Hailey nodded as she hung up, hiding away in the shadows of the parking lot near the apartment. She stifled her crying, trying to hide the tears. It didn't take long for Harry's car to pull in. She quickly got inside the passenger side, putting on her seatbelt.

"Jesus Christ, what happened Hailey?" Harry asked.

"I'll explain later. Please... take me back to your place," Hailey whispered, not looking at him.

Harry drove back to his own apartment, helping Hailey inside. He took her to the bathroom, sitting her down on the toilet as he got the shower ready for her. He helped her strip out of her clothing. He had to bite his tongue at seeing the bruises all along her body and her bleeding wrist. He grabbed a first aid kit from under the sink, having it ready for when she was done.

Harry knew the signs of rape. And as much as he wanted to give her privacy, he could tell that Hailey wasn't able to. She couldn't even sit up right. He didn't care if his own clothes got wet as he sat at the edge of the bathtub, helping her to sit down with her back turned to him. It was the least he could do to give some privacy.

"What happened Hail?" Harry asked, grabbing a soft cloth and soap to wash her body.

"Dean," Hailey said.

"Your boyfriend?" Harry asked.

"Yeah. Turns out he isn't exactly Prince Charming," Hailey said.

"How long has this been going on?" Harry asked.

"A few months. It was first all verbal, then he got physical," said Hailey. "He... threatened to kill me and whoever I told... I wanted to come to you... but I didn't want you to die... I'm sorry..."

"Hey, don't apologize. This isn't your fault. I'll have this asshat taken care of," said Harry. "But first I need to help you."

Hailey nodded, breaking down again. Harry made quick work of cleaning her before helping her into some clean clothes. He cleaned up the wound on her wrist and wrapped it so it didn't bleed anymore. Then he got her on his bed while he made a phone call to the police station. Even though he left to be a private detective, he still had great buddies in the force that would help him when needed.

"Try to get some sleep Hail," Harry said when he hung up.

"Stay... please," Hailey begged, gripping onto his shirt.

"Okay," he said, climbing into the bed. Hailey immediately clung to him, just wanting to feel safe.

The woman fell asleep within seconds. Her breathing slowed to an even pace with some shudders every now and then. Harry stayed, knowing she needed someone to keep her safe.

"Don't worry. We'll get the bastard," said Harry.

:0:

"You don't have to go Hail," Harry said. "You can stay here for a while."

"Thanks, but I should really get back to the apartment," said Hailey.

"Is that so wise?" Harry asked. "He could still be there."

"He had this big plan thing to go downtown to one of those druggie meetups for cocaine. I don't know where though," said Hailey. "He'll be gone for a while. I need to find a different place and get out of here and away from him."

"I'll still do everything to get rid of him," said Harry.

"I'm sure you will," said Hailey. "Thanks again for letting me stay here."

"Anything for you," said Harry. "You come back here if you need to though."

"I will," said Hailey, giving him a kiss on the cheek. "See ya Harry."

"See you around," the man sighed.

Hailey took the bus back to her apartment, making sure that his car was gone. She just wanted to grab some things and leave to a hotel for a while so Dean couldn't find her at all.

"There you are."

Hailey immediately froze up, clutching her jacket. She turned to see Dean standing in the doorway, his shirt left open. She gulped, turning to face him.

"What is it Dean?" Hailey asked.

"You weren't in bed," said Dean. "Where did you go?"

"None of your business," said Hailey.

"Well, you're gonna join me on a little adventure. A buddy of mine just called. He's got some fun planned," said Dean, grabbing her wrist. "So come on."

Hailey fought back, trying to get free, but he was too strong. Dean dragged her to his car, pushing her in before getting in himself. He drove off, leaving behind the apartment. Hailey bit her lip, looking away from her soon to be ex-boyfriend. She fiddled with her phone, wanting to call Harry. But she held back. She didn't want to upset Dean and end up getting hurt. Being raped was bad enough. She didn't want to die on top of it. But the moment she found a new place, she was out of there.

...present time...

Hailey jumped back further into the shadows. She watched as four beings came out of the wall that had split open to the side. Each one had their own gruesome features. One had their lips pulled back and eyes shut, constantly clicking their teeth together. The other one was much larger, wearing dark shades that covered their eyes. The third one that emerged looked more feminine in looks. Her throat was pulled open with wires that connected into her cheeks. The last one had Hailey's heart racing.

He stepped through with so much authority. He looked around, his eyes fully black minus the faint whites at the edges. Hailey's gaze traced each line on his head, wincing at seeing the nails there where each line intersected in the grid. He wore what reminded her of a priest's outfit, but it was black leather like the rest of the beings' clothes. He felt familiar, but she couldn't remember from where for some reason.

"What the fuck?!" Dean shouted, getting to his face. "Who the fuck are you?"

"We have come for you," the lead one said, his deep voice sending shivers through Hailey's body. She could feel herself getting wet just hearing it.

"Like Hell," Dean said.

"We ain't going with any of you freaks," Rob agreed.

The two girls tried to leave, but chains shot out of nowhere, hooks embedding themselves into their bodies. Rob and Dean stopped short in their own escape, trying to help the girls out. But hooks shot out at them as well. Blood pooled beneath them as they screamed, trying to break free.

"Oh, the sweet sound of suffering. Pleasure and pain," the lead one said.

"The arousal is strong," the female said, breathing in the air.

"Indeed, it is," the first one said.

The first one to arrive went to one of the girls, petting her hair as his teeth chattered next to her ear. She cried, curled the best she could. The being bent down, biting into her neck and penetrating through skin. The constant chattering chewed away her flesh, leaving blood gushing down her body and all over his face.

"Why are you doing this?" Dean asked.

"You are the ones who summoned us," the one with nails said.

"Your desires are strong. You crave untold pleasures," the female said, circling around Dean. "Allow us to show you what it truly means."

She took her curved blade, slicing the flesh of his chest down to his crotch. Dean screamed, convulsing in the chains as his life blood was spilled.

"You enjoy the abuse of others. You give them pain, yet you do not know what true pain is," the lead one said. "Now you will suffer it for eternity. A pleasure of pain like no other."

The three beings dragged away the four victims with their screams, blood trailing as they retreated back through where they came from. The lead one stayed, picking up the box from the blood-soaked carpet. He wiped away the blood before moving his finger in a circle. The box went back up, he turned it, and then pushed it back down so it reverted back into a cube. Hailey watched with wonder, completely unfazed by the gory scene she had just witnessed. She became entranced with the way he fingered the box. He was entrancing her.

The lead demon turned to depart as well but stopped. He breathed in deeply through his nose before looking to her hiding place. Hailey gasped, pressing herself against the wall. She was trapped. His eyes locked onto hers, and she felt like he was staring right into her very soul. She couldn't move, completely paralyzed in her spot on the floor.

"You are innocent," the man said. "Your soul has not yet been tainted by desire and want."

"W-What?" she stuttered.

"You do not hold such cravings of the body. You are safe," he said, holding out the box to her. "Though you are on the verge."

Hailey reached out hesitantly, taking the box. She saw it was clean, not a single trace of blood. When she looked back up to ask what she was supposed to do with it, the demon was gone. Hailey shook, breathing heavily. She shook, the adrenaline finally dying down. She looked around and didn't find a trace of what happened. Hailey reached for the door, running out of the house. She needed to get away and process what she just saw.

She ran the entire way to her apartment, clutching the box to her body. She reached her apartment and fumbled with her keys. When she managed to get the door open, she got inside and slammed it shut. She sank down to the ground, her head pressed up against the wall. She stared at the box that she was given. She didn't even know what compelled her to grab it after what she had just seen.

"Oh God, I can't believe he's gone," Hailey muttered, processing everything.

She couldn't believe her abusive boyfriend was actually gone. The nightmare was over. These demons or whatever they had saved her unknowingly. He was more like an angel in disguise. But it was finally over. Hailey traced over the last bruise Dean had left on her, right on her stomach from where he kicked her the day before the rape. But what did he mean that she was on the verge? What desires did they have that she didn't? Could it be lust? She was never one to lust over anyone. She's only dated two men, including Dean into that mix. And the one found it wasn't a good fit and they left their own ways as he went on to become an occult detective full time. Maybe she should go to Harry on this. He knows everything about occults and magic and all that.

"No. I'm not dragging him into this. He's too much of a good guy," Hailey scolded herself. "I couldn't risk having him die too. I'll just figure this out myself."

If only she knew how difficult that would be.

Chapter 4

Hailey screamed as she woke up, sweat covering her body. Her hair stuck to her face and her clothes to her body. She looked around with wide eyes filled with fear. The light to her bedroom flipped on. Harry ran to her side, his gun at the ready. He sighed and put it in the clip on his belt.

"Another nightmare?" Harry asked.

"Yeah," Hailey said, hugging herself.

"Well, they haven't found him yet," said Harry. "We checked his last known location that you gave us. They haven't found anything yet."

"Thanks for checking," said Hailey.

She kept her mouth shut about what she saw. She didn't want to risk being called a lunatic and forced into a mental hospital. It wasn't like anyone was going to believe her anyways. The only one that would come close is Harry.

"Do you want me to stay?" Harry asked.

"Yes," said Hailey.

"Alright. Lay back down. I won't leave," said Harry, taking a seat at the end of the bed.

"Harry?" Hailey asked after some time, looking at her bedside table drawer.

"Yeah?" Harry asked.

"I... I'm glad you are here," said Hailey.

"I'll always be here," said Harry. "You're one of the most important people in my life. I'm not about to let you get killed because of some sick bastard."

"I guess fate brought us together," said Hailey.

"Yeah, it did," said Harry. "Get some sleep. You need it. No one is getting to you while I'm here."

"Thanks," Hailey whispered, falling back asleep.

Harry turned off the light again and resumed sitting at the end of her bed. He was concerned. The only thing they got from the scene was some hair that looked like it could belong to Hailey. She did say she was there before she ran away. She was too shaken up to give much of a report. And even now she didn't really say much. Harry cursed the asshole for what he did to Hailey.

He offered to stay with Hailey until she could find a better place to go. His place was too much of a mess to let her stay there for long. Plus people knew where he lived that came to him for his own job as an occult detective. He didn't want her to be mixed up with the messes he usually found himself in. She already had enough to handle on her own plate without his added shit.

But just like some other cases he was looking into, Dean and his buddies just vanished in thin air. They weren't the first ones in this city to just disappear out of nowhere. And it's happened in different places across the country that Harry had looked into. From what he could tell, it has been going on for years. It's been rumored that it has happened in other places too around the world and those people are still missing.

"Could they be connected together?" Harry muttered to himself. "I need to do more research."

Harry would have to ask his buddies in the force on any missing persons cases and find a connection. He wanted to make sure that Hailey wouldn't have a connection to these disappearances and have her suddenly vanish too. She was lucky to get away while she still could. He got up to make a phone call on her landline.

He didn't have to wait long before someone answered.

"Yeah, it's me," said Harry. "Need you to get me anything on missing persons that went cold. Just bring them to my place. You have the key. Thanks."

Harry hung up, grabbing himself a beer from the fridge. He popped the cap off the bottle and took a swig. He went back to Hailey's room to keep watch over her. Like Hell he would let anyone harm her anymore.

...days later...

Hailey collected the last of her tips from the bar. She thanked the regulars that had come to wish her farewell since it was her last day.

"You sure you can't stay?" Geena asked.

"I'm sure. I found a place in England for pretty cheap according to their currency. I already got my papers submitted for duel citizenship," said Hailey.

"England? You're going all the way there?" Geena asked.

"Yeah. I don't want to risk Dean or his creeps coming around to get me," said Hailey.

"That's a long ways away," said Geena. "But if it keeps you safe, you go. Just don't forget to call or something."

"I won't," said Hailey, giving her boss a hug. "Well, I better get going. I have a flight to catch tomorrow morning."

"See you hun," said Geena.

Hailey walked out of the bar, spotting Harry waiting by a lamp post for her. She cursed, forgetting to let him know she found a place. He had been so busy with things that she didn't want to bother him.

"A lot of your stuff is missing," Harry stated.

"Yeah, I'm moving to England tomorrow," said Hailey. "My flight leaves at 9."

"England? You didn't tell me you were going to England," Harry said.

"You were busy with finding Dean," said Hailey. "It'll be okay. Dean or anyone won't be able to find me. And I'll still have my phone and all. I already have the address and phone for there for you."

Hailey pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to Harry. He took it, reading the contents and nodding with a heavy sigh. In that moment, Hailey could have sworn he aged by 10 years.

"Damn it," Harry muttered.

"Hey, it'll be okay," said Hailey. "I'll be safe."

"You had better," said Harry. "Are you sure about England?"

"Yeah. I already got the place. I'll look for a roommate there, even though I don't need it. And no male roommates either. I don't want a repeat of Dean," said Hailey.

"Well, want to have dinner with me before you leave?" said Harry. "It'll be on me."

"Sounds good," said Hailey. "But dessert is on me. For everything you've done for me."

"Then let's go," said Harry. "There's a great place a few streets down. We can walk."

Hailey nodded. They walked the short distance to a family owned restaurant. They got seated outside in their side garden patio. They ordered water and their food.

"Will you be okay there?" Harry asked.

"I think so. Maybe the change of scenery will help," said Hailey. "I still get nightmares about what he did. All the hitting, screaming, degrading, everything. It almost got to the point I wanted to kill myself."

"Don't say that," said Harry. "I'll be kicking your ass if you ever did that."

"You were part of the reason why I didn't," said Hailey.

"What was the other reason?" Harry asked.

"My soulmate," said Hailey, looking down at her mark. "I still believe he is out there somewhere."

"Everything you've seen about him has been from World War 1," said Harry. "How do you know he's even still out there alive?"

"I just know. I can feel it," said Hailey. "Who knows, maybe I'll find him in England. It is where he is from. Or at least get some information on him. I do have his name."

"True," Harry said.

Their food arrived quicker than they thought it would. The two conversed on times back when they were dating and about some of the cases Harry took on.

"So Caz gave you these tattoos, and he has the same?" Hailey asked.

"Yeah. They've saved my ass so many times," said Harry. "I tell you, these demons and stuff are freaky shit. Not only do I help ghosts, but I've encountered quite a few bad ones."

"Scary shit, isn't it?" Hailey asked.

"Yeah," said Harry.

"I haven't seen anything bad in a long time," said Hailey. "It is like they got bored of me cause I never acknowledged them anymore or ignored them."

"You're lucky. I'm still fighting the bastards," said Harry. "My work is never done."

"You love it though. Helping people out, dead or not," said Hailey.

"True, I do," said Harry.

"Well, I should try to get some sleep for my flight," said Hailey.

"I'll take you back and drop you off at the airport," said Harry. "It is the least I can do."

"That's good. I'm still going to keep the apartment and all in case I need it. One of these days I'll return here. So if you ever need a place to crash or hide, my place is open to you," said Hailey. "You already have a key."

"Thanks," said Harry.

"Yeah no problem. It'll be better for when I do return cause then I don't have to go searching again," Hailey grinned. "Apartment hunting is so tiresome and hard."

"I hear you there," said Harry.

He took her arm and took her back to the apartment. Hailey quickly got ready and set her alarm clock to wake her up at 7:30 so she could get to the airport. Thoughts of possibly finding her soulmate swirled around at the back of her mind. She wanted to find him, or at least about him if he is truly dead.

What wonders would be in store for her across the seas and into new territory?

Chapter 5

Notes:

I apologize if anything is off term wise. I don't know metric or how England works with their money. I don't know how it was back in the 80s. But I am just sticking to what I have written. Anyone who doesn't like it, don't care. Nor do I own any of the quotes from the movie. They are just helping me to add a bit of support to the plot. It does follow the first four movies, but mostly AU. And I apologize if it seems to be moving a bit fast. I get stuck in places and just continue on to the next part.

"You are all set. Welcome Miss Cross," the real estate agent said, passing over the keys to the house she had just bought.

"Thank you," Hailey said.

"I hope you enjoy it here," he said before tipping his hat and leaving.

Hailey nodded, looking around her new place. She went to the moving truck she rented and started moving in the new furniture and other items she had bought when she got here. But given what she had previously went through, she wanted to get a female roommate, or whatever they call it here in England. Flatmate? That could be the right word. She would have to get used to the new system and all that. But Hailey had a feeling she would be able to adjust quickly to her new life. She always has.

Maybe they still did newspaper ads. She'll have to check and look around. She didn't even want to get a job right now. She had enough to last her a few years. She doubted that she would stay more than a few years here from her gut feeling she was having. Maybe even less. She'll do that after she settled in.

It took her a few days to gather everything she needed concerning furniture and food. It was finally starting to feel like she was starting over. She was going to leave the past in the past where it belonged. After drinking some tea, she headed to bed, breathing in heavily. Her eyes wandered to her box, smiling softly at it as she fell into the dark abyss of sleep.

"What's your pleasure, Mr. Cotton?" a man asked.

Judging by the music and background noise, they were somewhere in India.

"The box," Cotton said.

A golden box sparkled in the lighting, attracting his eyes. He pulled out some American money, setting it on the table. The dealer didn't say anything. Cotton put more down.

"Take it, it's yours," the dealer said. Cotton picked it up, standing and staring down at the man before walking away. "It always was."

Hailey watched the scene change into a different country. 55 Lodovico Street. Frank went inside the house, going up to the top floor where a mattress and few belongings were at. He set up some candles in a square, lighting them all before kneeling in the center, the box in hand. His fingers went over each section, circling over the one section. The box lifted as he circled. Then he moved it one small turn and pushed it back in, creating a whole different shape.

Hooks shot out and went into him. He screamed, blood coming out. His eyes widened in horror at the four beings that emerged from the shadows. More chains and hooks shot out, the room transforming. Chains hung from the ceiling and a pillar of wood hanging as well.

It didn't take long for Hailey to recognize them. The images of them had been burned into her mind from when they took Dean and his friends away. They didn't say anything as they did things to the man. Hailey could hear his screams and the blood dripping down. But she was too concentrated on the leader. It was like he was a bit bored as he watched.

Cotton gave one final scream before his body was torn apart into smaller pieces. The lead one walked around, gathering pieces of the man's face and placing them together. Then he bent down to pick up the box, fingering it until it lifted once more. He turned it the opposite way Frank had it and pushed it back down until it was a box again. And in a flash, they were gone, even the body parts and blood of Cotton.

Hailey woke up. She blinked away the sleep, seeing that the clock read 2:07 AM. She groaned, turning onto her other side. She thought back on the dream, shaking it off as something her mind came up. But seeing his face made her own face heat up. She buried her head in her pillow, groaning in embarrassment. Why was she even thinking about him? She didn't even know him. Sure, he saved her from more abuse. And if anyone knew she was falling for, whatever species he was, they would call her crazy and lock her up.

"Damn it," she muttered, feeling restless now. "He's so sexy though. Gah! What am I saying?"

Hailey got up, going to the bathroom and turning the water to cold, splashing her face a few times. She looked in the mirror, staring back at herself. The image of him appeared behind her.

"Soon," he rumbled.

Hailey gasped, turning around. But he wasn't there. She blinked a few times and turned back to the mirror. Nope, he wasn't there at all. It is just her imagination. Nothing more.

"I need to go back to bed," Hailey muttered to herself.

She shut off the bathroom light and headed back to her bed, laying down and hugging a pillow to herself. It didn't take her long to fall back into sleep, dreaming of nothing now.

:few months later:

Hailey waited at the coffee shop, munching down on her bagel. She had gotten a call about the ad she had left in the newspaper for a female roommate. Checking her watch, Hailey saw that she still had 10 minutes before the woman was supposed to come.

"Can I get you anything else?" the server asked.

"No, thank you," Hailey said.

"Of course. Just let us know if you do," the server said before moving back behind the counter to ring up another customer.

A woman that was similar looking to her came in, looking around. Hailey looked at the curled, brown hair. If she didn't know better, aside from obvious differences, this woman would be a sister with how they looked alike in some ways.

"Are you Kirsty Cotton?" Hailey called to the woman.

"Yeah, I am," the younger woman said. "You must be Hailey Cross."

"That I am," said Hailey, shaking Kirsty's hand. "So, you're looking for a room, and I'm looking for someone to room with me."

"Yes," Kirsty confirmed. "I don't have a job yet. I wanted to secure a room first, if that's okay with you. I already am looking around for places hiring."

"I don't have a problem with it," said Hailey, going over payments for the room. "Does that sound fair?"

"Yeah," Kirsty said. "I'll let you know when I have a job so I can pay you."

"Alright," said Hailey. "Want me to give you a tour of it?"

"Sure, that'll be great," said Kirsty.

"Well, right this way then," said Hailey, throwing away her crumbs and napkin from her bagel and leaving the shop.

They walked to her house, letting Kirsty in first. Hailey went to the spare room upstairs, across from her room. It was a bit smaller than her own, but it was there. Kirsty walked in, looking around the room.

"This is perfect," said Kirsty.

"Excellent," said Hailey. "I'll let you get settled in then. I have a few things to do. Here's a key to the house."

Hailey passed over a spare key to the other woman. She had a feeling she could trust her.

"There's food in the kitchen if you get hungry. Uh, I guess make yourself at home. I'll be back in a few hours," said Hailey.

"Alright. Thanks for letting me stay here," said Kirsty. "I'll pay you as soon as I get my first paycheck."

"Alright," said Hailey, leaving the room and out the door.

Kirsty looked out the window, smiling at her luck. She had been looking around for a while. She took the key, heading out and locking the door behind her. She needed to go tell her father she found a place. He had offered to have her move in with him and her stepmother.

She headed out for a pay phone over by the train station. She put in her coins and dialed the number her father gave her to their new house. She knew her father would be there already checking the house out with Julia. She had attempted to reach out days before, but there was no answer from the house.

"Who is this?"

"Dad," Kirsty said.

"Kirsty?"

"I got through," said Kirsty.

"Barely. Where are you?"

"I found a room," Kirsty said.

"You what?"

"I said, I found a room," Kirsty said louder to be heard over the noise. "It took me a while, but I finally found one."

"I thought you were staying with us for a while."

"Dad. That was if I couldn't find a place of my own," said Kirsty.

"But, you'll like this house."

"You'll like my room," Kirsty shot back, rolling her eyes at her father's attempt to convince her to stay with him. She was a big girl now. She didn't want to rely on her father for everything.

"You should come visit us at least."

"Maybe in a few days," said Kirsty.

"What for, sweetie?"

"To pay my part for the room," said Kirsty. "This is something I need to do on my own. Just trust me a little. But I will come to visit once I get settled down and with a job."

"Alright, sweetie."

"Thank you," said Kirsty.

"Call me tomorrow."

"I will. See you dad," Kirsty said, hanging up the phone.

She made another phone call to the movers that had her things. She gave them the address to her new place, telling them that she'll meet them there. She didn't want to take too long to unpack. Once she found a job, then she would go visit. She knew the address that her father gave her. It wasn't too far from where her new place was at. Now to see what luck had in store for her with a job.

Chapter 6

Hailey jammed out to her music in the kitchen with the CDs she brought over with her. She finished putting the last dish on the towel to dry. She had decided to get things done since her roommate was out, having called earlier about taking her father to the hospital for a cut.

Just as the dishes were done, Kirsty came into the kitchen, going to the dryer and pulling out her clothes. She picked up the basket, holding it on her hip. Hailey turned off the music.

"Hey," Hailey said. "Going somewhere? You're dressed up."

"Yeah, over to my dad's. He's having a social gathering now that he's out of the hospital," said Kirsty. "He's got a few friends coming over."

"How is he doing?" Hailey asked.

"Good. Just a few stitches," said Kirsty. "But nothing too bad. He passed out though. He can't handle blood well."

"I can understand that," Hailey said. "Well, if you're going to do that, I'll be out for a while too. I'm going to hit up some archives and try to find someone from the past. Old relative."

"Okay," said Kirsty. "Well, I'll be home late then. An old friend might be with me."

"Okay. I'll go put the spare mattress in your room," said Hailey. "Have fun."

"I will," Kirsty said.

Hailey put on her leather jacket and grabbed her keys, heading out to the library. She hoped that they would have some answers she could get. She wanted to find the Elliot Spencer she kept dreaming about. She had something to go off of with him being in uniform in her dreams and of war.

"Excuse me, do you know where I would find records about someone? Possibly from the army in World War 1?" Hailey asked an elderly woman behind the desk.

"Archives are right this way," she said, getting up. "Do you know a name?"

"Elliot Spencer," she said. "The only thing I know is that he was in World War 1 fighting for the British. I think he might have been a high rank. But I'm not too sure."

"It is all alphabetized by last name. You'll find him most likely in this section," she said, waving her hand at a large wooden cabinet with many drawers.

"Thank you," Hailey said. "Also, do you have any mythology on demons?"

"Yes. It is three rows to the left from the aisle we walked down," she said.

"Thank you," said Hailey.

"Of course, dear. Let me know if you have any more questions. I'll be happy to help," she said.

Hailey turned back to the many drawers in front of her. These probably didn't hold all the information she needed. It wouldn't surprise her if a lot of it was withheld by the military. But she would take what she could. She opened the first drawer, skimming through the letters. She went through until she found Spencer. Then she searched for Elliot. A stack of papers came up of Captain Elliot Spencer.

She pulled it out, going over to a desk with a lamp on it. She turned it on, looking through the papers. An old photo was attached as well. She gasped. The man looked just like in her dreams. She had found him. She started to read through, finding very little on him. The last known record was that he left England and never returned. She huffed, finding a dead end, even though she already had some idea of what happened to him. But she wasn't sure if that was all real or not.

"Well, at least I found you," she said to herself, staring at the picture.

He was in his uniform, the one she had seen so many times on him. Her finger traced over his face, memorizing his features. She couldn't see his wrist though. She sighed, closing up the file and putting it back where she found it. She looked to the clock to find that she had been gone for three hours already. She headed down the the books, finding whatever she could on demons that might help her understand what she had seen. But none of them spoke out.

"Did you find what you were looking for?" the elder woman asked as Hailey headed outside.

"Yes. Thank you," said Hailey. "It was very much helpful."

"Anytime, dear," she said.

Hailey went out into the chilly evening air. She started back to her home, not wanting to take a cab. She wanted to think things out. She had found Elliot, but there was no records of where he left to. And she couldn't go back in time and find out. The people he had interacted with were all dead by now, or very old. She knew a lot of people back in the 1920s that survived the war had drank themselves to death or were badly damaged, physically and/or mentally.

But from her dreams, Elliot took things further. He did more than make himself drunk off alcohol. He had taken in drugs and other pleasures of the body. Probably to make himself feel anything again. She could see the war had ruined him as well. And any hope he had was shattered afterwards. The only thing that kept him from completely losing himself was the mark he shared as well.

She walked into the house, going to her bedroom and laying down on the bed. She stared at the ceiling, the image of the leader coming back to her mind. She was hoping the books on demons would give something to his name or what he was.

:0:

Pinhead nodded before he turned to face his Gash. He had just received word from their spy above on a potential new victim. Another member of the Cotton family. The box must be nearby and left if their spy didn't gather it already to find a new victim.

"What news does he bring us?" Nikoletta asked.

"A young female. She has been corrupted from rape and childhood trauma, but she hides it from others. She will be the next one to open the box. She has such potential and spirit," Pinhead said.

"When?" Butterball asked.

"Soon. Very soon," Pinhead said. "She will be one of our most interesting ones yet to tastes our pleasures."

"And what of the other one?" Nikoletta asked. "The one who was there before that has the Lament Configuration?"

"She has yet to sprout," he said. "But she is so close. She will become ours in time when the desires of the box call to her, and she opens it."

"Do you intend to have her turned?" Butterball asked.

"I am unsure yet," he answered truthfully. "We shall see. Leave me."

The Gash disappeared, waiting for when they would be summoned once more. Pinhead made his way to his chambers and out onto the balcony. He looked down upon the Labyrinth, Cenobites walking about or torturing souls of the tainted. His mind wandered back upon the one that he had spared. She was so close, but she wasn't ready yet.

He would wait as long as it took for her to be ripe and ready to harvest. He breathed in deeply, still remembering her smell as he handed her the Lament Configuration. She was turned on by the torment her abusive boyfriend went through as well as the other three. He moved his gaze to a smaller section, seeing that they were still being torn apart and put back together for all eternity in their own hells that they created for themselves in their lust.

"Very soon," he said. "You will be mine."

Chapter 7

Kirsty sighed as she got off work finally. Steve waited for her by the door. She smiled as she saw him.

"So, want to tell me what happened that has you so freaked out?" Steve asked.

"Remember that homeless person that was staring at us last night? Well, he was in here today eating the crickets. I told him to get out. And when you came in, he was gone," Kirsty explained. "Right out of thin air."

"Strange," Steve said. "And gross. Eating bugs? He must be desperate. I never would."

"Yeah, so gross," Kirsty said. "Anyways, my father wants me to go talk to him about something. We're going for Chinese."

"Well, I hope that is more fun than some weirdo," said Steve.

"Yeah, I hope so," said Kirsty. She leaned up and kissed him. "Will I see you later on tonight?"

"Sure. My place or yours?" Steve asked.

"We can hit by your place," Kirsty said, giving him a wink. "I wouldn't mind."

"Great. I'll pick you up later tonight. We'll call it a date," said Steve.

"Sounds good," said Kirsty, kissing him again. "I'll see you later."

"See you Kirsty," Steve said.

Kirsty hailed down a cab, getting in and giving the address her father gave her. She got nervous, bouncing her leg and staring out the window. She had a feeling it had to do with Julia. Her father couldn't see that Julia and her didn't get along well. But she would for her father's sake. She wanted him happy.

"Kirsty, over here," her father called out the moment she walked into the restaurant.

"Hey daddy," Kirsty said, walking over. "So what's up?"

"It's Julia," Larry said. "I don't know what to do. Last night she was wanting it, and then she is screaming don't and freaking out on me. It's like she can't make up her mind."

"Are you sure?" Kirsty asked. "Do you think she's hiding something?"

"I don't know," Larry confessed. "Maybe we shouldn't have come back. You know London or Brooklyn certainly wasn't any worse than this."

"Look, you love her so there must be something worth loving," Kirsty said.

"I wish it were that simple," Larry sighed. "Ah, I got a real problem here, kiddo. She doesn't even want to leave the house."

"Really?" Kirsty asked, shocked by his answer.

"It's like she's... waiting for something," Larry said.

"What?" Kirsty asked.

"I don't know," Larry said. "I don't know. It's way beyond me."

A heavy atmosphere settled upon them, making the two feel awkward. Larry built up the courage to ask his daughter what he hopes she can do.

"Look, uh, could you...? Would you...?" Larry struggled to get the words out.

"Uh oh," Kirsty said, knowing what he was asking.

"Stop by sometime?" he finished. "Try to make friends."

"Sure," Kirsty said, trying to hide her nervousness.

"I mean, who knows? Maybe all she needs is somebody to talk to," said Larry.

"Yeah. I'll see what I can do dad," said Kirsty. "I can stop by sometime today. I don't have anything planned until tonight."

"Thank you, sweetheart," Larry said, relieved. "Now, enough depressing talk. Let's eat something."

"Sounds good to me," Kirsty said.

:0:

Hailey nodded as she finished purchasing her fast food. She then headed back to her house, planning to sit back, relax, and read. She put the food on the side table next to the couch, munching on a fry as she pulled out a book. But before she could start reading, the phone rang. Sighing, she got up to answer it.

"Hello?" Hailey asked.

"Hailey, it's me, Harry."

"Harry," Hailey said. "Nice to hear from you. How's work?"

"Busy as always. The dead never rest. I just wanted to see how you were doing."

"I'm doing okay, Harry. Got a roommate. Things are looking up for me here in England," said Hailey.

"That's good to hear."

"You sound like shit, Harry," Hailey jested.

"I feel like it too. Been awake for 28 hours now working on a missing person's case."

"Then what are you doing talking with me? Go get some sleep," said Hailey.

"Who made you my mother?"

"Well if you don't, I'm going to fly over there and kick your ass until you do go to sleep," Hailey teased.

"Sounds like you're serious. Alright, I will."

"Good. Now sleep. It'll help you with your case," said Hailey. "I'll talk to you later."

"Alright. Talk soon Hailey."

Hailey hung up the phone. She smirked, shaking her head. Classic move for a detective. She was glad somebody was worried about her though. Even though Harry could be a mother hen at times, she knew he cared about her and just wants her safe and okay. She's been through a lot, and he was there for a lot of it.

She sat back down on the couch, picking up her burger and biting into it. She then picked her book back up, flipping to the page she was on. She knew that Kirsty should be back soon from work.

Half an hour later and the door opened. Hailey looked up to see Kirsty coming in.

"Welcome back," Hailey said.

"Thanks," said Kirsty. "Hey, I'll be at Steve's tonight."

"Okay," Hailey said. "Going to get kinky?"

"What?" Kirsty asked.

"Come on. I wasn't born yesterday. I've seen the dude. He's interested in you in that way," said Hailey.

"I don't know," said Kirsty, getting a bit embarrassed. "Maybe."

"Well, remember to use protection unless you wanna be a mother," said Hailey.

"Yeah, I don't think I will be," said Kirsty, heading into her bedroom.

Hailey smirked, laughing a bit as she heard the door close. Of course she would be embarrassed. She was young still. Though twenty isn't that young. Most women were having kids and married by then. It wouldn't surprise her if Kirsty wasn't a virgin.

Chapter 8

"Heading out?" Hailey asked, looking up from her book once she heard the door open up an hour later.

"Yeah, over to my father's house. He thinks Julia just needs to talk to another woman," said Kirsty.

"I can come with if it makes you feel better. I know how you feel about her," Hailey offered.

"Thanks, I would appreciate that," said Kirsty.

"Just tell her I was wanting to meet her and your father, but he isn't in right now. It'll be a conversation starter," said Hailey, grabbing her jacket.

They headed out to the train station to catch it down. Then from there they would walk along a bridge and down to the house. Kirsty seemed both annoyed and nervous as she approached the house. Hailey gave her a pat in reassurance.

"Thanks again for coming with me," said Kirsty.

"Yeah, no problem," said Hailey. "I get it. Some people just give off those vibes. Best to have someone else around so they don't try anything."

"Yeah," Kirsty agreed. "Well, there it is."

"Nice house," Hailey said. "Is that her?"

"Yeah," Kirsty said, seeing Julia enter in with a different man. "That isn't good."

"So, that's not your father?" Hailey clarified.

"No. I don't know who that is," said Kirsty. "But I want to make sure she isn't doing what I think she is."

Kirsty and Hailey waited a few moments before heading to the house. Kirsty went in first, then Hailey, who waited by the front door. Kirsty headed up the stairs cautiously when she didn't see Julia in the kitchen or living room with the stranger.

"Wait here. I'll go check it out," said Kirsty.

"Gotcha," Hailey said.

She looked around where she stood. The place felt old fashion. Too much for her to ever live in. She picked at some fluffs off her shirt, rocking on her heels as she waited. She heard a scream from Kirsty, becoming concerned. She looked up the stairs above.

"Kirsty? Is everything okay?" Hailey asked.

She jumped as she heard a window break and something land outside. She turned to find Kirsty running down the stairs like the devil was on her heels. Hailey was startled, leaving the house and closing the door after Kirsty. She watched her pick something up, but couldn't quite tell what. Then Kirsty was off and running as fast as she could.

"Fuck," Hailey muttered, giving chase.

She followed Kirsty's trail, losing her once. She saw a pair of nuns walking by though.

"Sisters, have you seen a woman with dark brown curly hair, white t-shirt run past here?" Hailey asked.

"Yes. We just passed by her," one of the nuns said. "She looked quite disturbed. She had blood on her shirt."

"Thanks," Hailey said, running past them.

She saw three people hovering over someone. She went up, seeing it was Kirsty. She knelt down, gently patting her face.

"Kirsty?" Hailey asked. "Someone call the police and ambulance."

"On it," a man said.

Hailey stayed with Kirsty, finding that two officers and an ambulance appeared rather quickly. The paramedics took Kirsty in the back.

"There's no wounds on her. But there's blood," the paramedic said.

"Take her to the Channard Institute. We'll meet up there," the officer said.

"Can I come with?" Hailey asked.

"Of course," he said. "What happened?"

"I don't know. I was with her to meet her stepmother. I heard a scream and then she was running out of the house and kept going until she passed out here," Hailey said.

"We'll get her to the Institute and ask her some questions," the officer said. "There could be homicide involved. We'll get in contact with a detective."

Hailey nodded, leaving with the ambulance. When they arrived at the Channard Institute, she was told to wait in the waiting room. She didn't know how long she would be there. But she remembered the number Kirsty gave her in case something happened.

"Where is your public phone?" Hailey asked a nurse.

"Right over there," the nurse said.

"Thank you," Hailey said, dialing the number. "Hello, is this Steve? It's Hailey. Kirsty is here at the Channard Institute. Can you meet us here? Great, see you then."

Hailey hung up and sat back down. She knew it would be a while since a doctor would want to talk to Kirsty. She could wait. Hailey cursed herself suddenly. She totally forgot to see what it was that Kirsty had grabbed before running off.

'Guess it'll have to wait,' Hailey thought to herself.

A few hours passed by before she went up to the nurses station.

"Excuse me. Is there any word on Kirsty Cotton?" she asked.

"The doctor is seeing her right now," a nurse said.

"Alright," said Hailey. "And when he is done, what room is she in?"

"Just down the first hall, four doors on the left," the nurse said.

"Thanks," Hailey said.

"Pardon me. I have another patient to look on," the nurse said.

"Of course," Hailey said. She stepped aside and snagged some keys from the nurse.

She looked down the hall to see another nurse lock the door that had Kirsty. She waited until it was clear before making her way down to it. She peaked inside the room to make sure it was the right one, gasping at what she saw. They were there.

"The box. You opened it. We came," the lead one said.

"It's just a puzzle box!" Kirsty shouted, fighting to get free of the one that held her.

"Oh no," he corrected. "It is a means to summon us."

"Who are you?" Kirsty asked.

"Explorers in the further regions of experience," the lead one said. "Demons to some. Angels to others."

'You're my angel,' Hailey thought, blushing at her thoughts.

"It was a mistake!" Kirsty defeated, breaking down in her panic. "I didn't... I didn't mean to open it! It was a mistake! You can- Oh, go to Hell!"

"We can't," the female said. "Not alone."

"You solved the box. We came. Now you must come with us," the leader said. "Taste our pleasures."

Hailey grew wet at those words. She licked her lips, swallowing.

"Please, go away and leave me alone!" Kirsty cried.

"Oh, no tears, please. It's a waste of good suffering," the lead one said with mock sympathy. It was clear they didn't care that it was a mistake to open the box. Hailey knew Hell had claimed Kirsty's soul now.

"Wait. Wait. Wait, please, wait," Kirsty pleaded.

"No time for argument," he said.

"You've done this before, right?" Kirsty asked.

"Many, many times," he answered, his voice holding boredom.

"To... to a man called Frank Cotton?" Kirsty asked.

"Oh yes," the female said, remembering their latest victim.

"He escaped you," Kirsty said.

"Nobody escapes us," the leader said, his tone sharp.

"He did! I've seen him. I've seen him," Kirsty said. "He's alive!"

"Supposing he had escaped us, what has that to do with you?" he asked, annoyed it was taking so long.

'So that's what happened,' Hailey thought. 'He must have faced them, died, somehow escaped, and that's how Kirsty got the box and saw him. Which means he is probably still at the house. The blood must be Frank's. Maybe that's what I saw in that one dream. No wonder the last name seemed familiar.'

She looked back up, having missed some of the conversation.

"I want to hear him confess himself, then maybe," the lead one said, his words forceful and threatening. "Maybe."

"But if you cheat us," the female trailed off.

"We'll tear your soul apart," he finished.

Hailey shielded her eyes when there was a bright flash of light. When she looked back, she saw Kirsty on the ground crying, the box still on the bed. Hailey unlocked the door, going inside.

"Kirsty," Hailey said, startling her.

"H-Hailey," Kirsty whimpered. "I have to get back. My father could be in danger."

"Alright," said Hailey. "Jeez, what kind of mess did you get into?"

"A long story," Kirsty said. "We have to hurry!"

Kirsty started to head out, grabbing the box off the bed. Hailey rolled her eyes, closing the door and locking it again. She dropped the keys to the nurses station before following Kirsty outside. She hailed down a cab, getting inside.

"Where to?" the cabbie asked.

"Near 55 Lodovico Street," said Hailey.

"Got it," he said.

He drove there, Kirsty jumping out the moment the car stopped. Hailey cursed, paid the cabbie, and followed. Kirsty was already inside the house. Hailey cursed again, knocking on the door to be polite after straightening herself out. A woman answered.

"Hey, I'm just looking for Kirsty. She's my roommate," Hailey said, acting like there was nothing wrong. "She here?"

"Yes," the woman said. "Please, come in. I'll go let her know."

"Thank you," Hailey said.

The woman she knew was Julia disappeared upstairs. She heard a commotion, becoming alarmed.

"We've got to get out of here!" Kirsty said.

"No, stay with us. We can all be happy here," said a man, who Hailey guessed was her father. "Come to daddy."

"Oh my God," Kirsty gasped. He got closer and Kirsty scratched his face.

"Frank!" Julia cried out.

Kirsty tried to escape, only for Julia to grab onto her. Hailey didn't know what to do, trying to think of something. Luckily this Frank hasn't seen her yet. She watched as Julia was stabbed and Kirsty disappeared upstairs. Frank gave chase, trying to find her. Hailey knew she had to find Kirsty first. She snuck upstairs to the very top floor, going into the room opposite of where Kirsty was hiding.

She gagged when she saw the dead body, stripped off all its flesh. She wasn't scared or anything, but it was the smell that got to her. She hid in the shadows when the door opened up. She saw that Frank came inside, waiting by the door with it cracked open slightly, like he was ready to pounce. He folded up his switchblade.

Kirsty was pushed into the room moments later when Frank went to the hallway, tripping over the body of her father. Hailey came out of the shadows to jump on top of him when he confessed who he was. A soft musical tune floated through the air, the room transforming. Hailey knew what that meant. They had come. Come for Frank and Kirsty.

She went to Kirsty's side, grabbing her arm. She locked eyes with the leader, her heart pounding. He tilted his head ever so slightly, remembering her, but wasn't sure why she was here. But he had matters to attend to.

"This isn't for your eyes," he said. Hailey nodded, pulling Kirsty along to leave.

"You set me up, bitch," Frank growled.

He went to attack, but hooked chains flew out, catching him and stopping him. He cried out in pain, trying to remove the hook in his hand as he was dragged back. Another one shot out, pulling his arms to the sides. Others went in his face and body, pulling taught to fully immobilize him.

Hailey pushed Kirsty out of the room, just as Frank was torn apart. Kirsty cried, but Hailey watched with interest, making sure Kirsty couldn't see. She looked at the mess around the room, seeing all but the leader gone.

"I didn't expect us to meet so soon," he said.

"Neither did I," said Hailey. "It must be fate."

"Such a shame your soul has yet to be claimed," he said, circling her and touching her hair. "You would be so perfect."

"Perfect for what?" Hailey asked.

"To become one of us," he said.

"And what are you?" Hailey asked. "Besides explorers of the further regions of experience and my angels?"

"We are known as Cenobites," he said. "I am the Hell Priest."

"Cenobites," she repeated. "And what will you show me?"

"Many different sights. You enjoyed watching him get torn apart," he said. "I can feel it from you."

"Maybe I did," Hailey said.

"It is not time for you yet," he said from behind her, his breathing heavy.

Hailey turned around to ask him what he meant. But he was gone. She huffed, leaving the room behind. Where did he go? And why did he always tell her quizzical things that she couldn't decipher? At least now she knew that their species was called Cenobites.

"We have such sights to show you," she heard him say. She went into the lower room, seeing him there. Kirsty played with the box once more. "No, don't do that."

"Go to Hell!" she shouted. A blue light shot out and hit the leader.

"No!" he shouted, disappearing from sight.

Hailey felt despaired. She couldn't get her answers. The female disappeared too, and then the chattering one. Hailey watched as Steve came in, the larger one being crushed by debris from the ceiling before he could kill the unsuspecting male. It didn't take long for a fifth one to show up, one that Hailey hadn't seen before. Kirsty fought to get the box back from it, sending it back to Hell as well.

"Kirsty," Hailey coughed, waving away the dust.

"Hailey, are you okay?" Kirsty asked.

"Just peachy," Hailey said. "What about you two?"

"We're fine," said Steve.

"Good," said Hailey, leaving the house with them. "Well, that was quite the adventure."

"Yeah," Kirsty agreed. "Let's go destroy this."

Kirsty walked to a local burning pit where a lot of the homeless hung out. She put the box into one of the fires, stepping back into Steve's arms. Hailey spotted a vagabond come up, stepping into the flames. She was confused since he came out of nowhere. He picked up the box as his body was engulfed in flames. He transformed into a bone dragon, taking flight to the air with the box.

"Shit!" Kirsty screamed. She screamed before passing out, Steve catching her.

"Well, that just happened," Hailey said. The sounds of sirens alerted her as well. "And here comes police."

"We found her!" an officer shouted. "Are one of you Kirsty Cotton?"

"Yeah, she's down here," said Hailey. "Steve, bring her up. I'm guessing they aren't happy she disappeared."

"Okay, yeah," he said.

"We'll take her back so she can get help," the officer said. "We're glad you two found her."

"Of course," said Hailey.

"You two will come with us too," said another officer.

"Alright," Steve said.

Chapter 9

"Come right this way," a nurse said, leading Hailey into a room.

"Why?" Hailey asked.

"The detective would like to interview each of you separately," said the nurse.

"Alright," Hailey said.

"Let me go! I have to save my daddy! He needs me! Frank's going to kill him!"

She looked out the window of the door to see Kirsty fighting against security officers and nurses. She was far too gone in her mind to be reached. She wasn't sure where Steve was at either. She sat down on the bed, waiting for whoever to come and interview her. A man knocked before entering.

"Hailey Cross?" he asked.

"Yeah, that's me," she said.

"My name is Detective Bronson. How are you?" he asked.

"I'm good," said Hailey.

"I wanted to ask you about what happened tonight. They had sedated Kirsty and Steve had quite the story," said Bronson. "Why don't you tell me what happened."

"Like from when?" Hailey asked.

"How about just before you helped Kirsty leave?" he suggested. "We know you helped her. A patient saw you."

"Shit. Okay. Well, I went with Kirsty to go meet her stepmother and father. But something happened and she came running out of the house. I followed and found her passed out on the sidewalk. I went with her to here and waited. She kept screaming about her father and so I helped her. She was very persistent and didn't take no for an answer. So I left with her to make sure everything was okay. I waited downstairs by the front door near her stepmother, who had let me in," Hailey explained. "I heard more screaming before Kirsty was saying that they needed to leave. And she got scared when who I presumed to be her father tried to get her. She ran back upstairs after scratching him and the stepmother was on the stairs. She was stabbed by the man and left. I went upstairs to help Kirsty and hid in a room where there was a skinned dead body. The man there came in and pushed Kirsty in. I distracted him enough for us to escape out of there. And Kirsty wanted to burn something, so that's where the police found us."

"Interesting," Bronson said.

"Am I free to go?" Hailey asked.

"No. I think it will be best for you to stay here for now," said Bronson. "Your story is different than what Steve said."

Bronson got up and left. Hailey followed him, cursing. But when she tried to open the door, it was locked. She punched the door, growling. Now she was being held against her will. She gave her side of the story. She wasn't about to say there were demons from Hell. She may know the truth, but others will not believe her. Only those who have seen such creatures will believe. She wondered what Steve had said and what Kirsty will say. She was there for hours with no contact at all.

"This is such a fucking mess," Hailey muttered. "I don't even belong in this place. Yeah, some questions. More like tricking me into being a patient here. And I fucking fell for it."

It was a while before a doctor came in. He sat down on the chair in the room, looking Hailey up and down. Hailey got creeped out by his look. It reminded her too much of Dean when he was in those moods.

"Hello Hailey. My name is Dr. Channard," he said. "I understand you had quite the adventure."

"I have had many adventures. Which one are you talking about?" Hailey asked.

"Sassy," Channard said. "And so very spirited. You know exactly which one."

"Look, a guy already took my statement," said Hailey.

"One which is different than the other two," said Channard. "Steve was released hours ago."

"Then why haven't I been released yet?" Hailey asked.

"Something is clearly the matter with your mind," said Channard.

"Nothing is wrong with my mind," said Hailey. "Kirsty I can see. But not me."

"Are you sure you didn't see these... demons that they have claimed were there?" Channard asked.

"Yes, I am quite sure," said Hailey.

"Hmmm... I'll like to keep you for further observation. To make sure everything is alright," said Channard.

"I can assure you nothing is wrong with me," said Hailey. "There's no point in keeping me here."

"I will be the judge of that," said Channard, getting up and leaving.

"Wait. I want to make a phone call," Hailey said.

"I will have a nurse bring you a phone," said Channard.

"Jerk," Hailey muttered when he left.

She waited nearly three hours before a phone was finally brought to her. She rolled her eyes, picking it up and dialing the number she knew by heart. She waited for it to answer. When it went to voicemail, she grumbled.

"Harry, Hailey. I know you're probably busy working a case or sleeping. But I need your help. I'm at the Channard Institute somewhere near London. When you can, come over please. They won't let me go," said Hailey. Then she hung up. The nurse took away the phone, leaving Hailey all by herself once more. Another nurse came in with some clothes.

"Please get changed into these," she said.

"I think I'm good," said Hailey.

"Please, do not be difficult," the nurse said, setting down the outfit on the chair and leaving.

Hailey crossed her arms over her chest. She sat down on the bed again, facing the opposite wall from the door. She was so pissed right now. And that Channard guy gave her bad vibes. It was like he knew something she did too, but wanted her to confess to it. She didn't know his plan, but if she played it just right, she would be seen as just normal and not like some lunatic. This was probably all Kirsty's fault too. God knows what she told the detective and the doctors here.

She didn't sleep at all that night. She felt way too uneasy in this place. Something was off about it, but she couldn't place her finger on what. When morning came, a nurse brought in Hailey some breakfast. She ate it to make it seem like she was just fine. Then she was brought out and to this large room with other patients. Hailey looked around, scowling. She saw Kirsty as well near a girl doing a puzzle.

"Kirsty," Hailey said.

"Hailey. I thought they would let you go like Steve," Kirsty said.

"Yeah, you would think," said Hailey. "That Channard creep wants to keep me here for observation because my story didn't line up."

"Your story?" Kirsty asked.

Hailey pulled her closer and whispered to her.

"I didn't tell them about the Cenobites. Does it look like I want to be called crazy to a world that wouldn't believe in them unless they saw them? People don't believe that kind of stuff. I'm not stupid. I didn't want to be locked up, even if it was true," Hailey hissed. "You told them about them, didn't you?"

Kirsty nodded. Hailey breathed heavily through her nose and out her mouth. She pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Okay. We'll get out of this mess," said Hailey, deciding to change topics. "Who's this?"

"Kyle told me a nurse named her Tiffany. She doesn't talk," said Kirsty. "But she does a lot of puzzles. She's obsessed with them."

"Interesting," said Hailey.

"Look, I know you think I messed up. But I'm not going to lie. Besides, I need to find a way to help my father. He visited me last night, saying he was in Hell and needed my help," Kirsty said.

"I don't think he's in Hell," said Hailey.

"He is! He came to me and wrote it in blood on the wall. I know it is him. He didn't have his skin. He's alone and suffering," said Kirsty.

"Alright, alright, calm your tits down," said Hailey, holding her hands up.

"You don't believe me either," said Kirsty, crossing her arms over her chest.

"I never said that," said Hailey. "I'm more concerned of getting the fuck out of here."

"Fine, whatever," Kirsty growled. "Steve will get me out of here."

"No, he won't. He left you Kirsty," said Hailey. "If he was going to, he would have tried by now."

Kirsty grew quiet, turning away from her and back to Tiffany. Hailey went to the window, staring out of it. She had to think of a way to get out of here. Something was brewing, and she didn't know what. But it wasn't going to be good.

Chapter 10

Hailey looked up from her spot on her bed. She frowned, seeing Channard coming into the room. It was strange to see him there.

"And how are we today?" Channard asked.

"Go fuck yourself," Hailey said. "What you're doing is illegal. You can't just hold me here."

"I can indeed," said Channard, sitting down on the bed too. Hailey backed up to the head of the bed. "No need to be afraid. I'm not going to hurt you."

"Somehow I don't believe you," said Hailey.

"I need you to come with me," said Channard.

"Like Hell," Hailey snapped.

Channard sighed. The hard way then.

:0:

"Come on!" Harry growled. He marched up to the front desk. "What is delaying the flight to London?"

"We aren't sure sir. The captain or anyone hasn't said," she said.

"Well is there another flight there?" Harry asked.

"Let me check," she said, typing away. "It doesn't look like there is sir. I'm sorry."

"Damn it!" Harry scowled, scaring her. "Please find out what the fuck is going on. I have emergency police business in London that can't wait anymore. I'm on a time schedule."

"I will do my best sir," she said, quickly leaving to find the captain of the plane.

Harry shook his head. The flight had been delayed for five hours now. As soon as he got the call from Hailey, he contacted his superiors to tell them he had a family emergency. Then he bought the soonest time to England from New York.

'Hold on Hailey. I'm coming as fast as I can,' Harry thought. 'Please, be safe for me.'

:0:

"Let me go!" Hailey shouted, fighting against the hold of Channard. But he was stronger than he looked. "The fuck!"

"Calm yourself," said Channard, kissing her neck. "I have a surprise for you."

Hailey froze at those words. That couldn't be good. She noticed he was taking her out of the hospital. Maybe if she timed it just right, she could escape out of there and go away. She still resisted though against him.

"Stop being so stubborn, Hailey," Channard said.

"Bite me," Hailey growled.

He took her across a field and through some foliage before reaching his house. Hailey stomped on his foot, getting a grunt of pain, but he didn't let go like she had hoped. She was dragged up the stairs and forced into a small room. There were other girls around as well, all chained up and hanging from the ceiling with their feet barely touching the floor.

Channard pushed Hailey to the ground, grabbing some more chains and ropes. He tied the rope in her mouth to keep her quiet before using the chains to keep her arms at her sides. Hailey struggled the entire time. Like Hell she was going to be taken so easily.

"Julia, they're ready for you," Channard called out.

Hailey's eyes went to the door again. A woman wrapped in bandages came in, wearing a makeshift dress. Hailey recognized the name. It couldn't be. Her eyes widened in shock as Julia went up to her victims, pressing her mouth to theirs as she sucked them out, her fingers digging into the back of their heads. Hailey watched as they went grey and withered, all the life being sucked out.

Then she made her way over. Hailey scooted back the best she could as Julia came over to her. The woman reached out and touched Hailey's hair.

"She will be perfect for skin," said Julia.

Hailey growled, her eyes narrowing. She wasn't going to let anyone have her skin. She pulled her head back, slamming it into Julia's forehead. The older one stumbled back with a scream, falling onto a naked young woman that was still alive. Her fingers went into the young woman's body, stripping her of her skin.

"Julia, are you alright?" Channard asked.

"Yes," said Julia. "I guess this one will have to do."

Channard nodded and pulled out some fabric scissors. He cut away the bandages around her face, showing a beautiful woman underneath. Julia smiled up at him, her eyes sparkling. Channard played with her hair a bit, nodding in approval.

Julia turned back to Hailey. Channard stopped her from approaching though.

"I will have another use for her. Leave her here for now. She can't escape. I will return with the final piece," said Channard. "Why don't you go sit and have a glass of wine? Maybe even a cigarette."

"Sounds good," Julia said.

The two left the room, locking the door. Hailey tried to wiggle out of the chains, but they were too tight. She groaned, leaning her head back against the wall. This was so unfair. What Karma shit did she do to deserve this? She really hoped Harry showed up soon to save her.

Hailey closed her eyes, trying to get a feel for her situation. She was trapped in a room upstairs surrounded by dead bodies, which a lot of flies were already swarming on. She was gagged with rope and chained up. This was not looking good for her. At least she still has her skin. Though her head did hurt a bit from hitting against Julia's skull. It wouldn't surprise her if she had a concussion or even bruising.

She didn't know how long she was there, listening to the flies buzz around and chew on dead flesh. It was getting a bit hot in the room too. But she was startled when she heard muffled talking outside the door. She pulled her legs to her chest, getting ready to fight the best she could.

Julia came in with a doctor dressed in casual clothing. Hailey recognized the man from the hospital. He was different than the others. His eyes settled on her.

"Hailey!" Kyle gasped.

Before he could move to her, Julia turned him around and pressed her mouth against his. Kyle tried to fight back, but her strength was more superior to his. He started to turn grey, just like the others. Julia dropped him, wiping at her mouth. Then she waited by the wall, grinning like she was a cat that just ate the canary. Kirsty came into the room, gasping in horror.

"No," she whimpered. "Not again."

Then her eyes landed on Kyle.

"You have surprisingly good tastes in men Kirsty," Julia said. "Not so much in friends."

"No," Kirsty said.

"Oh, didn't they tell you Kirsty? They changed the rules of the fairy tale. I'm no longer the wicked stepmother. I'm the evil queen," Julia said, coaxing Kirsty, who screamed. "So come on! Take your best shot, Snow White!"

Kirsty ran to Julia, fist up and ready to strike. Julia struck first, knocking Kirsty out in one hit. Hailey watched as her roommate fell unconscious to the floor.

"Julia," Channard called, standing in the doorway. "Now it is my turn."

He pulled someone out. Hailey recognized the blonde. It was that girl Tiffany, the one obsessed with puzzles. Julia nodded, hauling up Hailey by her arm. Hailey growled trying to kick the woman, but she was at the wrong angle to. They were brought down the the study, Hailey's chains being attached to a heavy table.

"Stay," Julia said.

"Here Tiffany," said Channard. "You are finally ready for this puzzle."

Tiffany looked back at Hailey with a questioning look.

"Don't worry about her. She's bound to protect you. She's insane," said Channard, handing Tiffany a gold inlayed wooden box. Hailey recognized it. It looked exactly like hers. She knew exactly where this was going.

Tiffany sat on the floor, looking over the puzzle box. Channard pulled Julia along to a different room, hidden so that he could spy inside his study through a mirror. Hailey watched as Tiffany solved the box, getting a wild reaction with each click the box made, the familiar tune tinkling through the air.

Papers flew and glass shattered around. Hailey covered her face the best she could so she didn't get attacked by shards of glass flying around. She looked up when the papers on the floor were sucked into two passageways. Her heart pounded, watching as the Gash appeared. First came out the chattering one, then the large one, followed by the female. She swallowed at hearing his voice as the rest stopped, the female clicking her knives together.

"No," he said, emerging from the passageway.

"No?" the female asked.

"No," he repeated. "It is not hands that call us. But desire."

He looked over to where Channard and Julia were once. They had gone through the tunnel that opened behind them. The Cenobites started to head back down where they came from, leaving Tiffany alone. But she ran off through the passage and straight into Hell.

The other woman tried to get free more. She made a lot of frustrated noises through her gag. Kirsty came into the room, spotting Hailey. She untied the chains and removed the rope from her mouth. Hailey rubbed at her mouth, moving her jaw around.

"Thank you," Hailey said.

"How did this happen?" she asked.

"That bastard Channard and his little bitch Julia," Hailey said. "They nearly killed me. But thanks for freeing me."

Kirsty nodded, turning to look into Hell after she helped Hailey up, looking at her with concern. Hailey nodded in reassurance.

"Don't worry. I'm fine," said Hailey. "Takes a lot more than that to keep me down."

Hailey looked down the passage, walking down it. Hailey didn't care too much about her roommate. She wanted to go find the Cenobites again. She heard running and turned around.

"Hailey!" Kirsty shouted, waving her hand.

"Kirsty," Hailey said.

"I can't find Tiffany," said Kirsty, holding the box up. "I think we might need this."

"Just maybe," said Hailey. "Channard and Julia are somewhere in here. So is Tiffany. But we'll see her again."

"I need to find my father," said Kirsty. "He's got to be here somewhere."

Hailey rolled her eyes in her head. She started off in one direction, Kirsty following her. She would help Kirsty find her father, get Tiffany out if she ran into her, and find the Cenobites and the Hell Priest again. Or they would find them. Either way worked for her. She just followed the connection she felt to the Hell Priest. With Kirsty there, she was sure the Cenobites would find them since they were still after her. 

Chapter 11

"Wait," Kirsty said, stopping and opening a door.

Hailey looked back, but didn't see anything. Kirsty was just standing there where she was before, box still in hand. She raised an eyebrow in confusion, looking around to make sure she wasn't missing something. It didn't take long for Kirsty to gasp in fear. 

Hailey watched as Kirsty screamed for help. She wasn't sure what Kirsty was seeing. It just looked like a normal corridor to her. But given the younger woman whispered 'mommy', it was possible what she was seeing was in her mind, a far off memory that has been surfaced turned nightmare.

The corridor suddenly lit up with a familiar white light, and Kirsty stopped screaming, looking around in terror. The two looked around, Hailey's heart skipping a beat when her eyes landed upon the Hell Priest. But he must not have seen her. Or if he did, he didn't acknowledge her yet. His eyes were settled on Kirsty, just like the other three Cenobites.

"Ah, Kirsty. We thought we lost you," the lead Cenobite said.

"So sweet of you to come back," the female said.

"How can it send us back child?" the Hell Priest asked. Hailey looked to see Kirsty was trying to open the box up. "We're already here. And so are you."

The box levitated up into the air, shifting it's shape completely. It was now a diamond shaped, sharp points on both ends. Kirsty watched hopelessly as her only means of protection was transformed into something else as it dropped into her hands.

Hailey took a few steps back away from Kirsty. The Hell Priest moved his head, shifting his gaze to her as she pressed herself up against a wall and out of the way. She knew it was something between Kirsty and the Cenobites. Her turn would come.

"I didn't open the box!" Kirsty screamed above the wind that blew, giving her Deja vu from the first time she met them.

"Didn't open the box," the female repeated. "And what was it last time? Didn't know what the box was. And yet we do keep finding each other, don't we?"

"Oh, Kirsty, so eager to play," the Hell Priest teased, a small smirk on his lips. "So reluctant to admit it."

Hailey's heart sped up at hearing that. She could just imagine what kind of games he would play with her. His voice cut through the wind so easily, striking deep within her.

"Perhaps you are teasing us," the female suggested. "Are you teasing us?"

'I could be teasing you,' Hailey thought, never taking her eyes off of the Hell Priest.

"I've come for my father!" Kirsty shouted, earning laughter from the Cenobites like they heard the funniest joke in existence.

"But he is in his own hell, child, and quite unreachable," the Hell Priest said.

"I don't believe you!" Kirsty said, running for an empty hallway. A chain shot out and stopped her in her tracks.

"But it's true! He is in his own hell. Just as you are in yours," he said.

"And what about you?" Kirsty snapped back.

"We have no more surprises," he said.

"We've always been here," the female said.

"But please, feel free, explore," Pinhead said. The chain retreated, allowing Kirsty to run off. "We have an eternity to know your flesh."

Hailey got turned on by that phrase. What she wouldn't give to explore him with eternity to know his flesh and vice versa. Her legs felt weak as she supported herself up against the wall. Once Kirsty was out of sight, the Cenobites turned their attention to her. The Hell Priest came up to her, a hand caressing her cheek before going down to her neck and chest.

"It has been a long time. I knew you would find your way back to us," he rumbled. "The seed has sprouted."

"And what sights do you have to show me?" Hailey asked, entranced by his charm.

There was like a flash of light or glint in his eyes. He smiled, holding his hand out to her. She looked down and took it. He led her away from the others, going down the opposite hallway Kirsty traveled. Hailey didn't hesitate to follow, her breath quickening as they walked. She looked behind to see the hallways had shifted once more. They were alone together. Heat flushed to her face.

The Hell Priest stopped at a doorway with a small window carved into it. Hailey stopped as well, looking up at him in confusion. He looked through the window, Hailey following his gaze. Her breath hitched, seeing Dean inside. She looked away, memories hitting her.

"He cannot see us," the Cenobite reassured her. "Watch."

Hailey looked back, seeing an image similar to her, but they were two different women. Dean was acting different. Like he actually cared about her. He was attempting to make love to the one that looked more like her, but the image of her changed and the other disappeared. It became a Cenobite, completely different. Dean screamed as the Cenobite shackled him to the bed before they cut into his body. Her eyes were glued on the scene, enjoying that Dean was getting what he deserved.

"This is the hell he has created for himself," the Hell Priest said.

"He deserves it," Hailey said.

"You had a seed of darkness planted within your soul long ago because of your parents. Dean has watered it and nurtured it. But it was because of you that it has sprouted," he said. "Tell me, what do you feel from watching his suffering?"

"It excites me. It makes me glad he is hurting," Hailey admitted, looking back to him. "He deserves it. And anyone else that has hurt me."

"Indeed they do," he agreed.

"Pinhead! Hey, you done working? Oh, a visitor."

Hailey looked to the left and past the Cenobite to see another one coming down the hallway. This one was a bit taller than her and it looked like he had a mask of someone else's face stabled to his face. He stopped short of the Hell Priest.

"Pinhead?" Hailey asked. "Is that your name?"

"Only Face has ever called me that," Pinhead said.

"Others have too, just not to you," the other Cenobite said, leaning in closer to Hailey. "He hates the name. Others try to use it as an insult to him. Of course, anyone foolish enough to say it directly to him never lasted long."

"Why?" Hailey asked.

"Cause that is what they say he looks like," said Face. "He doesn't care if I call him that. But I'm just special to him. He won't admit it though. I'm Face by the way. The actor with a capital A. So don't forget it."

"Face," Hailey repeated. "I am Hailey."

"A pleasure to meet you, Miss Cross," Face said, bowing down like he just finished an act. Before she could ask, he answered what question came to her. "We know more about you than you think. Anyways, I have to get going. My audience awaits me for the newest act. I just came to collect my first volunteer. She's a feisty one from what I am told. I'll see you around Pinhead. Tell Nikoletta, Butterball, and Chatterer I say hello. And it was nice meeting you Hailey. I hope to see you again."

Face headed out, going into a room a few doors down and dragging out a woman before leaving down the corridor. Pinhead watched until Face was out of sight.

"So only he calls you Pinhead?" Hailey asked.

"Yes," said Pinhead. "He doesn't use it as an insult. Using my appearance as an insult is rather annoying. Though, I would not mind you calling me that."

"Okay. What do the others normally call you?" Hailey asked.

"The Hell Priest," he said. "That is my title as the favored son of Leviathan, my God."

"Oh," Hailey said, understanding what he was saying.

She unconsciously ran her thumb up and down her wrist, right over her mark. Pinhead closed his eyes for a moment before looking down a hallway behind where they were standing. Hailey could have sworn it wasn't there before.

"It would seem Kirsty has discovered the truth," Pinhead said. "Come."

Chapter 12

Hailey followed him as they went down the new passageway and into a chamber where chains hung from the ceiling and little light. Her eyes settled on Tiffany and Kirsty, going to them. The other Cenobites appeared as well, intimidating the other two women.

"Oh, no boxes. Such a shame," Pinhead teased, smirking at the frustration Kirsty held.

"No more delays, Kirsty. No more teasing," the female said, who Hailey figured was Nikoletta. The one with chattering teeth made sense his name was Chatterer. Which left the larger one to be Butterball. "Time to play."

"Time to play," Pinhead repeated, slowly as he took a few steps forward. It was clear they wanted Kirsty.

The young woman looked in her pocket. Hailey's eyes traveled there too, not knowing what was in there. Nor did she know what Kirsty was up to. Tiffany moved back further, but Hailey didn't go to her to comfort. She actually stood closer to where the Cenobites were at.

"Wait," Kirsty said.

"No more deals, Kirsty," the Hell Priest said, growing impatient. "It is your flesh we want to experience, not your skills at bargaining."

"No deals," Kirsty said, sounding like she was ready to give up. "Just information. Just information."

'Jeez, no need to repeat yourself,' Hailey thought to herself, rolling her eyes. She noticed Kirsty did that a lot, like no one heard her the first time.

"Go on," Pinhead said, deciding to amuse her before he went on with the torture. "But trick us again, child, and your suffering will be legendary, even in Hell."

Kirsty reached into her pocket, pulling out an old photograph. Hailey couldn't see what it was from the angle she was at, nor with it folded. Kirsty reached out, handing it to Pinhead, who took it. He unfolded the photograph, looking confused.

"What is this?" he asked. "Someone else you think escaped us? Like Frank?"

"No, this one didn't escape," Kirsty said. "It's you!"

"Not since... I..." he started, only to get cut off.

"It's you!" Kirsty repeated. Her eyes went to each of the other Cenobites. "You haven't always been this way. You were human. Remember. Remember all your confusion. Think!"

"Enough!" Nikoletta snapped, growing impatient. She raised up her blade, intending on striking her. Hailey stepped closer to Pinhead, looking at the photo he held. She recognized the soldier from her dreams. Captain Elliot Spencer.

"Wait!" Pinhead said, halting Nikoletta's advancement. "I... remember."

"You were all human," Kirsty said, taking that chance to say it again. The other Cenobites relaxed, confusion and remembrance on their faces.

Hailey put a hand on Pinhead's arm. But something else caught her attention. She looked to see Channard emerging from the shadows behind Tiffany. But he was different than when she last saw him. He was a Cenobite.

"Tiffany," Channard said, getting their attention. "Come."

Tiffany shook her head. Hailey looked back to Pinhead, seeing that he was displeased at seeing Channard. It didn't take long for him to push her back behind him as the doctor came closer, trying to get the youngest girl to listen.

Kirsty grabbed Tiffany and backed up as well. Hailey felt Kirsty grab her arm as well, pulling her back. Hailey hesitated and tried to pull away from her. She wasn't going to leave him. Pinhead looked to the side where Hailey was being pulled away against her will. He knew she wanted to stay, but knew the danger that was present. His eye caught the mark on Hailey's wrist. He was surprised and remembered his own mark, hidden by the leather he wore. The one he pondered on many times when he wasn't working.

The photograph dropped to the ground. Pinhead knew what he had to do. He needed to protect them. He needed to protect her. Never did he think he would find his soulmate. And yet, here she stood. He was too concentrated on getting Kirsty that he didn't notice the mark Hailey held until now. It explained why he felt an attraction for her.

"Ah, good. A fight," Channard said.

Pinhead summoned hooked chains from the darkness to strike at Channard. The new Cenobite's vibrating scream echoed around the chamber like he was in pain. But Hailey realized too late that he was faking it. Channard stopped screaming before the chains broke apart like they were nothing. Hailey couldn't get out a warning before Nikoletta had a wooden stake through the hole in her neck, blood spewing from her mouth.

As she hit the ground, she reverted back to her human form. Channard quickly got Butterball and Chatterer within seconds, killing them as well. Hailey tried to get to Pinhead, knowing what would happen. But Kirsty didn't let her go and gripped harder.

"Let me go!" Hailey demanded, twisting her arm around.

"I'm taking over this operation," Channard said. "And you girls will be my first patients. Starting with you, Hailey."

The woman didn't show a shred of fear. He pulled free from Kirsty and stepped away so she stood mere feet behind the Hell Priest. Pinhead looked back at Hailey before quickly turning back to Channard. He wouldn't let this psycho touch her. He stood in the way, knowing that Channard somehow had the powers of Leviathan within him. Blue beams shot out of the doctor's hands, striking Pinhead as he walked backwards towards Hailey.

She watched as before her very eyes he was transformed back into the human he once was. The one that filled her dreams for so many years. His soft blue eyes shined with defiance, but he didn't say a single word. He looked to Kirsty, only his look telling her to get out of there. Kirsty nodded faintly, understanding as she grabbed Tiffany. Elliot grabbed on the the blades off of his belt in preparation for fighting. One of the tentacles from Channard had a blade at the tip. Her voice got stuck in her throat as she watched in horror as it shot out, slicing through Elliot's neck.

Blood poured out rapidly as Elliot gasped and choked, stumbling back as he lost blood. Hailey screamed, running to him and catching him as he fell against her. Kirsty and Tiffany ran away, Channard giving chase and ignoring the two, screaming as he went.

"No, no, no, no," Hailey muttered, pressing her hand against the wound to try to stem the bleeding.

Soft blue eyes stared up into hers glossing over in pain. He reached up with a hand, touching at a tear that slid down her cheek. His hand dropped to his side, too weak from blood loss. More blood gushed around Hailey's fingers. Her vision blurred with hot tears. Elliot's weight grew heavier as he fell limp against her body. His breathing slowed to a stop. She saw the mark that matched her own on his wrist, peaking out from the leather outfit.

"Pinhead...?" Hailey whispered in disbelief.

She broke down and sobbed, pulling his body closer. His head rested up against her shoulder as she touched their foreheads together. Her tears splashed down onto his face. She threw her head back and screamed out. The labyrinth shook around her.

"Hailey! We need to get out of here!" Kirsty shouted, appearing back in the chamber with Tiffany. "Come on! Come on!"

"No! I'm not leaving him!" Hailey said.

"He's dead! Now let's go! We will be too if we don't get out of here!" Kirsty shouted. "Tiffany help me!"

The two grabbed Hailey's arms, pulling her up. Elliot slid off of her and to the ground, his head cracking against the ground. Hailey struggled against them, crying and screaming as she fought to get back to him. She grew more despaired when she was dragged through a wall and back into the Channard Institute. She broke free from them and ran back, but slammed into the wall when the passageway to Hell closed.

"No!" Hailey screamed, pounding at the wall. "Open the fuck back up!"

"Hailey stop it!" Kirsty said, turning her around. Hailey glared and spat at her.

"Fuck you!" Hailey seethed. "Leave me alone!"

Hailey started to march out of the building, ignoring the chaos of crying and whimpering around her. She hugged herself tightly, blinking away any remaining tears. She felt empty and broken. She barely noticed that Tiffany and Kirsty caught up to her as she walked out the doors, leaving behind the Channard Institute forever.

"Hailey!"

She looked up at the male voice that called out to her. She couldn't believe her eyes. She ran to the man, embracing him hard and sobbing into his chest.

"Harry...," she whimpered.

"I'm here Hail," Harry said, brushing a hand through her hair. "I told you I would come if you ever needed me. I got your phone call. I would have been here sooner, but the flight was delayed from shortage of fuel. What happened?"

"I...," Hailey trailed off, more tears bursting through.

"Let's get you out of here first. Come on," said Harry, pulling her along gently to the loaner car.

"Wait, who are you?" Kirsty asked, jogging up.

"Harry D'Amour," the man said. "Friend of Hailey. What happened to her?"

"A long story you probably wouldn't believe," said Kirsty.

"Try me," Harry said. "You two might as well get in too. There's a lot of explaining to be done."

Harry got Hailey into the front seat while Kirsty and Tiffany got into the back. Harry drove to Hailey's address, using the instructions Kirsty was giving him to get there. He would be glad to get back to America.

He pulled into the driveway and helped Hailey back out. She immediately clung onto him again as Kirsty opened the door. He went to the living room, sitting Hailey down on the couch. He got back up and to her bedroom, getting a fresh shirt as well as a bowl of water and a wash cloth. He took off her shirt and started wiping away the blood from her skin.

"Start talking," Harry said, looking back at Kirsty. "I need answers."

Kirsty went on to explain what had happened since she moved in with Hailey as roommates up until they were taken from the Institute from her perspective. Tiffany added in some details as well, but Hailey remained quiet. Her crying had ceased, but her eyes grew distant.

"I don't get what's up with her," Kirsty said. "He was a monster. He killed people and tried to kill me."

"You wouldn't understand," Hailey said.

"What?" Kirsty asked, having not fully heard.

"I said, you wouldn't understand," Hailey growled, voice louder and her gaze hardening.

"Hail, calm," Harry said.

"Get me out of this place. I want to go back to New York City," Hailey said. "She can have the house and everything for all I care. Just get me out of here. I don't want to stay anymore."

"Alright. I'll take care of everything here. Why don't you go lay down for a bit? I'll start packing your things and getting everything in order," said Harry. He lifted Hailey up and into her bedroom. "I'll make sure you get out of here."

Hailey nodded. She pulled her legs up to her chest and hugged them as Harry left the room and closed the door. Hailey pulled out the photo that she had snagged before she was dragged away. She buried her face in her legs, sobbing once more as her fingers dug into her arms, drawing blood from the pressure.

Harry sighed, rubbing his face. He looked back at the other two young women there. Tiffany sat quietly on a chair near the window. Kirsty had her arms crossed over her chest with a look of anger. On the coffee table was a box like what was described to him. He walked over and picked it up, turning it in his hands.

"I thought they were all gone?" Harry asked, raising an eyebrow at the two.

"They were. Or I thought so. This was here," said Kirsty. "The damn box just never goes away."

"Don't get too hasty," said Harry. "You don't know if this is the same one you know. Like you said, there are lots of boxes."

"It is all the same," Kirsty said. "I can't trust her."

"Hey! Watch your tongue," Harry snapped, glaring at her. "She has been through a lot more shit than you ever will and have."

"Then what is her deal?" Kirsty asked. "She seems to be in league with those demons! It's because of that fucking box that my father is dead!"

"You don't know anything about her," said Harry.

"It's fine Harry."

He looked behind his shoulder to see Hailey come out of her room. She went over to him, taking the box out of his hands. His tattoos tingled a bit when she did grab it. The occupants also noticed she hung onto the picture of Elliot Spencer.

"Why do you have that?" Kirsty asked.

"What does it matter to you? You're not getting it," said Hailey. "This one is mine. You and Tiffany will have the house. I'm leaving here, and I'm never coming back."

"You love that demon," Kirsty accused. Hailey clenched her teeth before slapping Kirsty across the face.

"Don't assume you know anything about him," Hailey growled. "He was my soulmate! And because of your stupidity and selfishness to get to your father, he died giving you two time to escape. Without him, you both would be dead!"

"You're sick," Kirsty said.

"So what? I don't care," Hailey said. "It never crossed your mind that maybe your father isn't in Hell at all. But you're so desperate to get him back, you went and searched through Hell. He never lied. Your father is in his own hell. Just not the one you think he was in. But you're too stupid and blind to realize that. He would still be alive if you weren't so stupid. I'll be out tonight. Enjoy your life."

Hailey went back to her room, packing away her clothes and a few of her other personal things. She kept the box and the picture with her, putting it into a small bag she would keep with her. She filled out some paperwork for the house, signing it over to Kirsty. She grabbed her few suitcases, her bag, and headed back out.

"Let's go Harry. Take me home," said Hailey. "I'm done here. I have nothing left."

Harry sighed. Hailey shoved the keys and papers to the house in Kirsty's hands before she walked out. Harry drove to the airport, glancing at Hailey every now and then.

"It'll be okay," said Harry, reaching out and taking her hand.

"How?" Hailey asked. "He's gone. He was killed."

"Just a feeling," said Harry. "You trust me, right?"

"Yeah," Hailey said.

"Then trust me," said Harry.

"Alright," Hailey said.

"Good. Everything is just how you left it aside from some dust," said Harry.

"That's fine," said Hailey.

She just wanted to go home. She fell asleep on the plane, leaning against Harry.

:0:

Face walked down the hallways of the Labyrinth. Something had happened. Their God had something done to him. He had changed his form to look like the familiar Lament Configuration, something that hasn't been heard of before. And the residents weren't sure what. He calmed his audience from the disturbed show and promised to go find the Hell Priest and his Gash to find answers. He may not have been well liked by other Cenobites, but he was still one of them and willing to help where he could when it came to the Gash.

"Pinhead! Where are you?!" Face shouted, speeding up his search for his very close friend.

He ran into a chamber, stopping dead in his tracks. He recognized those clothes. He knew humans have been turned into Cenobites. He remembered his own human life, one thing he doesn't want to go back to. The humans in the Cenobite leather clothing were familiar.

"Nikoletta. Butterball. Oh, Chatterer," Face said, mortified, his eyes scanning the room. He walked in further, gasping and putting a hand to his mouth. "Pinhead."

He stumbled and fell next to the body of his friend. Blood had pooled around him, coming from his neck and back of his head. The blood was already drying and coagulating in blood clots. Face reached for his neck, tracing over the wound. He was familiar with it. A blade. But who was strong enough to defeat the strongest Gash, and so easily too? Did the rumored new Cenobite do it? He heard it was killed easily by decapitation after Leviathan reverted into his current shape.

"No," he whispered, the blood still fresh enough to stain his fingers. "Pinhead..."

Face felt the tears running under his mask and squeeze out from the edges. He ripped it off, leaving a splatter of blood. He took a blade from Pinhead's belt, standing to his feet. He carefully removed the wooden stakes from Nikoletta, Chatterer, and Butterball, dripping his blood over them. They came back, gasping for air as they reverted back to their Cenobitical nature.

"Face," Nikoletta said. "Where is your mask?"

"I took it off. Don't look," said Face, turning his head away from the others. He hated when anyone saw his face, but he was pissed and grieving.

"The Hell Priest?" she asked.

"G-Gone," Face stuttered, his blood dripping from his hand into Pinhead's mouth. "It isn't working... the blood isn't working..."

The members of the Gash looked down at the still form of their leader. He was gone. The blood would bring their kind back, but it wasn't working for him. Face wondered if something happened to prevent it. Maybe it had to do with Leviathan. He wasn't sure.

Chapter 13

Four years. It had been four years since the whole Channard Institute incident happened. Four years since he died to save them. Hailey spent a lot of her time drinking for the first year and a half. Harry had stayed with her until she became sober and stable enough in mind to be on her own again. But he still checked in with her, making sure she didn't attempt any suicide. But she never did. She was just empty inside, filled with a deep depression.

It wasn't until this past month that she started to be more productive. She didn't dream at all, not since that day so she didn't have anything to think back on besides memories. Even if she did dream, she probably would have of that time, over and over again. The last she heard, the Channard Institute was shut down, people were buried that had died in the mess, and a lot of things inside sold off to other hospitals or auctions. She had bought a few things from Channard's personal home that were related to the box and the Cenobites. It was best no one else knew that stuff. She kept them in a cardboard box hidden away in her closet.

When she had gotten back to New York and her apartment, Hailey framed the picture of Elliot Spencer and kept it next to the box on her night stand table. She had also went out and bought a handgun without Harry knowing. She didn't want to worry him and make him think she was going to off herself. It was for protection against anyone who might want to take her box or hurt her. She just hoped she didn't have to use it.

Her phone rang. Sighing, Hailey picked it up.

"Hello?" she asked.

"Hey, heard you were in the city."

Hailey groaned, rolling her eyes. JP Monroe, the fucking prick.

"What do you want Monroe?" Hailey demanded.

"Ouch. Is that anyway to greet an old friend?"

"Get to the point," she said.

"I was wondering if you wanted to come check out my club, the Boiler Room."

"I don't think so. Anything that has to do with you is tainted in cooties," said Hailey. "Besides, I know you Monroe. You just want to fuck. I'm not falling for it. I didn't when our parents were alive, and I'm not now."

"Awe, come on Hails. You would love this place."

"Fine. I'll think about it. Maybe tomorrow night," Hailey said, just to get him off her back. Besides, she could go for a drink. It was around the day he died.

"Great. I'll see you then."

"You wouldn't be able to find me," Hailey said. "Bye Monroe."

She hung up the phone. It's been a long time since she went to a club. It was a year before she came here and met Dean. She was celebrating her 21st birthday by herself.

"One drink won't hurt," Hailey said. "Right?"

The next day came by quickly. She decided to go out and change up her looks a bit so JP didn't recognize her if he tried to find her. She headed into a small haircut shop nearby.

"Hello," a woman greeted. "Just you?"

"Yeah," Hailey said.

"Right this way," she said, bringing Hailey to a chair. "What can I do for you."

"I want to go short. But not too short that I look like a man," said Hailey. "I don't remember what they are called."

"Oh, the pixie cut. Yeah I got you sweetie," the woman said.

Hailey nodded and watched as she was transformed from long, curly brown hair to short, almost spiked hair. The stylist played with her hair a bit to make sure it would work good.

"Any special occasion?" she asked.

"Yeah. I'm going out to a club for the first time in a long time," said Hailey. "So I figured new me, new look."

"I recommend black leather for you. There's a fancy shop just up the road. My sister Joanie owns the place. She can help you find the right outfit," she said.

"Thanks. I'll go there after I'm done here," said Hailey.

She paid for the cut and tipped the woman largely. Then she headed down to the shop, seeing women coming in and out of it. She walked in, seeing all sorts of outfits from the most girly to more dominatrix style. She went up to the counter.

"Hello. I was recommended by this place from my hair stylist just down the road," Hailey said.

"Oh, Barb must have sent you up," the woman said. "I'm Joanie. So what are you looking for?"

"She recommended black leather outfits, which I personally enjoy myself," said Hailey. "Got anything good?"

"Yeah, I got just the thing," said Joanie, moving to the back of the shop.

Hailey followed closely. She looked around, stunned by what she was seeing. Joanie pulled down an outfit from the top shelf.

"Here are the changing rooms," Joanie said, motioning down a short hallway. "Go try these on."

Hailey nodded and took the clothing and boots that came with it. She went into the stall, changing into the new outfit. She loved what she saw. The whole outfit was black and leather. The pants were tight, but not too tight. The shirt was form fitting, showing off her breast size. There was spiked studs running around the chest area, forming around the breasts and down the sleeves and around the neck. The front had a hole cut out just above her breasts and it went down to her midriff. The sleeves had extensions that went over her pinkies and thumbs, leaving her three fingers exposed. The boots were in the same studded style, going up to her knees with an inch of heels on them.

Hailey walked out of the dressing room, getting a squeal from the older woman. She looked up, seeing the shop owner grinning from ear to ear.

"Oh, you just look absolutely gorgeous sweetie!" she said. "And it fits you so nicely too."

"Thanks," said Hailey, looking down at her new outfit. "I really love it."

"Perfect. I'll let you get changed back and ring you up," she said, heading back up front. "Come up when you're done."

Hailey quickly changed back into her regular clothes. She smiled, bringing up her new outfit. Joanie rang her up, even giving her a 20% off discount. Hailey smiled, feeling happy for the first time in a long time.

"And there's that for you," Joanie said, giving her the bag. "You come visit again."

"I definitely will," said Hailey. "Thanks Joanie."

"Anytime," she said.

Hailey headed back home to get ready. She took a shower to wash away any loose hair from her cut. Then she got dressed in some black undergarments before walking out to her bedroom. She slipped on her new outfit once she was dried enough, admiring it. It reminded her of how the Cenobites were dressed. Even the sleeves looked like Pinhead's. She shook her head. Maybe it was some sort of sign that he was still with her, even in death, wherever they went when being from Hell died. But it made her feel closer to him.

Wiping away the few tears that escaped, she went back to the bathroom and put on a sapphire blue eyeshadow and lipstick, bringing out her eyes and pairing up with the rest of the outfit. She nodded to herself, making sure to stash some cash between her breasts and her ID to get into the club since she didn't want to carry a purse or hand bag. And this outfit didn't have pockets.

"Well, I guess it is time for a little fun," said Hailey, getting up and walking out. She stopped by the picture of Elliot, touching it briefly before leaving.

She walked down to the Boiler Room, climbing up the stairs. She entered in, paying her fee and showing her ID. She looked around, seeing a bunch of people drunk, having sex, doing drugs, and dancing or socializing at tables. She headed to the bar, ordering a drink. She then sat in a corner table, watching everyone party around.

She drank her strawberry daquiri in silence, a waitress coming up to her in a leather bikini style outfit with fishnets.

"Is there anything I can get you?" she asked.

"Yeah. Some chips and salsa and another strawberry daquiri please," Hailey said over the blaring music. "Maybe some pretzels and cheese too."

"Coming right up," she said.

Hailey knew she shouldn't drink on an empty stomach. She didn't want to make herself sick. Luckily, she saw no sign of JP at all. She really didn't want to see the asshole, but she also couldn't stay cooped up all the time either. But at least there was good music playing.

The waitress came back with the food and another drink. Hailey paid her for the food and then left her $30 for a tip. The waitress thanked her and went off to serve others. Hailey ate her food, taking it slow so she didn't upset her stomach. She could already feel the effects of the alcohol running through her. There was a reason why she didn't drink too much.

After a few hours, Hailey stumbled out of the club, managing to straighten herself out enough to make it home. She didn't even bother to get out of her outfit. She didn't care. It wouldn't be the first time she's wore an outfit for a day or two. She grumbled as she took some pain pills for the headache she might get in the morning. She didn't drink a whole lot, so it shouldn't be too bad.

She grabbed the photo of Elliot and brought it up to her. She moved her finger along next to him. Before she knew it, she was asleep, holding the picture close to her chest.

Chapter 14

Hailey found herself standing in a battlefield. She looked around, seeing the piles of dead bodies. It was quiet, like the battle had just finished. She walked for some time above the trenches, recognizing the English uniforms. There was a soft sobbing coming from nearby. She followed the sounds of the crying, her eyes searching.

She eventually came across a man sitting on the ground, his hands pressed against his head as he cried. Hailey came around to in front of him, seeing that it was Elliot. She reached out, touching his shoulder. But he didn't move or react to her.

"Hailey."

She turned around, seeing Elliot there as well. She looked back, seeing the crying one still there. She got back up, going over to the one that addressed her just now.

"Elliot," she said, her voice becoming choked up.

He reached out, pulling her closer to his body. Hailey leaned into him, the tears bursting out. She couldn't stop the emotions from coming out. Elliot just held her, resting his chin on top of her head.

"Shhh... shhh... it's alright Hailey," Elliot said.

"...you d-died...," Hailey hiccupped.

"And I would do so again if it meant you would be alive," Elliot said, tilting her head up to look at him. He brushed his thumb against her cheek. "I couldn't allow him to hurt you."

Hailey nodded in understanding. She looked down at her wrist. Elliot reached over and traced the symbol, showing his own. Hailey touched his with the tips of her fingers.

"There is a way, you know," he said.

"For what?" Hailey asked.

"For us to be together. Hailey, my evil is out there. He has become unbound. I have a plan that involves Joey Summerskill. She will be the key to defeating my evil and reuniting my soul with his once more," Elliot explained. "You will have key in this too. I need your help. He knows who you are to us. He wouldn't kill you. However, he can hurt you. You must be brave."

"What do I need to do?" Hailey asked.

"When I come to you again, I need you to go to the old church near the Boiler Room club owned by Monroe," said Elliot. "You must wait inside. You will know when the moment is right."

"And this will help bring you back?" she asked.

"Yes," Elliot said. "You must trust me. Soon, we will be together. Like we were meant to be."

"I'm scared. What if something bad happens or it doesn't work?" Hailey asked.

"Have faith in me," Elliot said, cupping her cheek. "Everything will be okay. I'm counting on you. Only you have the power to get through to him so he can be stopped, before Hell is unleashed on Earth."

Hailey nodded. Elliot smiled down at her, leaning in for a kiss. His lips softly melded against hers. Hailey closed her eyes, feeling her body come alive.

Her eyes opened to the sunlight bathing in from the window. Her fingers brushed her lips, still feeling his own pressed against hers. She sat up, looking around her room. That dream felt way too real. It had to be real. If there is a chance that he could come back, then she was going to take it, no matter the danger.

She jumped when her phone rang. Hailey reached over, grabbing her phone and answering.

"Hello?" Hailey asked.

"Hail, I'm going to be out of town for a while for work. Are you going to be okay?"

"I think I'll be fine," said Hailey. "You go work, Harry. You don't have to worry about me."

"I'm always going to worry about you. Just call me if anything happens, okay? I don't want you hurt."

"I will Harry," Hailey said. "Thanks."

"No problem. I'll check in on you once my work is done."

"Alright," said Hailey. "Bye."

"Bye."

Hailey hung up the phone. She rubbed at her face, getting up and going to her dresser. She saw the Lament Configuration on top of her nightstand with the picture laying on her bed still, smiling softly. She would get her soulmate back. That she promised. She grabbed some fresh clothes before getting in the shower. Once her hair and body were washed, she sat down in the tub and just let the water run over her.

She pondered on what Elliot had told her. If his evil was unleashed, then where was he at? She recognized the name he gave. The Boiler Room was a popular club in New York City. It was said that the owner had killed his parents to gain their wealth, but she wasn't sure how much of that was true. She had met JP Monroe a couple times from going to trips with her parents back when they were alive. She didn't like the prick. Nor did she fall for his seductions.

Once she got dressed, Hailey grabbed her keys and headed outside. She decided to go for a walk to find the church so she knew where it was at. She didn't remember seeing one nearby when she went to the club last night. She walked a few blocks to the Boiler Room, seeing that it was closed in the day. But she then looked around, finding an older gentleman walking down the sidewalk. Maybe he knew since she wasn't too familiar with the surrounding areas.

"Excuse me sir. Can I ask you something?" Hailey called out, jogging up to him.

"Yes? What can I help you with?" he asked.

"I'm looking for an old church near here. Do you know where it is at?" she asked.

"Yes, of course. I pass by it every day," he said. "It is about a block away in that direction. You can't miss it."

"Thank you," Hailey said.

"Of course, young lady," he said.

Hailey headed in the direction that he pointed. She walked slowly, taking her time so she could map out her surroundings. Something about the Boiler Room felt off now than it did last night, but she couldn't place what. She saw a construction site for a new building. And not far from there stood a very old fashion looking church with stain glass windows.

"Well, I guess this is the place," she said to herself.

Hailey stared at the church for a long time before she headed back to the Boiler Room. She studied it as well, feeling some sort of attraction there. Maybe that is where Pinhead was at? She wasn't sure. But she was curious about this Joey Summerskill and what she has to do with this. The name sounded familiar.

"You a regular here?"

Hailey jumped at the sound of someone behind her. She turned to find a skinny blonde woman there.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to frighten you," she said. "I'm just a reporter trying to get a story on this place. The name's Joey Summerskill."

'Well, speak of the devil and she shall appear,' Hailey thought, shaking her head.

"You're fine. I was lost in my thoughts. I actually only been here once. I went last night to enjoy myself. I was just admiring it," said Hailey.

"Okay," said Joey.

"You said your name was Joey Summerskill?" Hailey asked.

"Yes," said Joey.

"I'm Hailey Cross," she said, extending her hand. "If you don't mind me asking, what kind of story are you working on?"

"Oh, nothing too much. Just a follow up on something that happened here about a regular that might come here a lot," said Joey. "I was hoping to ask her some questions about what she saw concerning someone dying. He had chains all on him. You probably wouldn't believe me. My manager didn't."

"I believe you," said Hailey. "I've seen a lot of crazy shit. So there was chains on him? Did they have hooks?"

"Yeah. How did you know?" Joey asked.

"Just a hunch," said Hailey.

"Well, here's my card. If you think of anything that might help me, I'll be glad to hear it from you," said Joey, pulling out a card.

"I might just do that," said Hailey, accepting the card given to her. "Good luck in your search."

"Thanks," said Joey.

"Oh, here's my number," said Hailey, writing it down on a scrap piece of paper. "Let me know what you find. I might be able to help you then, depending on what it is."

"Will do," said Joey, taking it. 

'Well, hopefully this will help. Either way, I'm involved with this Joey now to get him back,' Hailey thought. 'Might as well take the chance when it gets tossed at you.'

Hailey headed back home. She pulled out a box from under her bed, bringing it into the living room. She set it down on her coffee table before going back to get her Lament Configuration she's been holding onto for years that was given to her by Pinhead. Setting it down next to the cardboard box, she opened the lid.

She shifted through papers and documents, even pulling out a tape. She read through the files she had stolen from the Channard Institute before leaving England. She took everything she could on herself and Kirsty Cotton. Kirsty knew about Pinhead, encountered him and escaped him. She wanted to know what happened in that house when Kirsty had disappeared those few times without much of a word to her.

Even though she was forced to be a patient in the Institute because of the shit with Kirsty, she had her records wiped cleaned and all that. Harry made sure of it too by using some of his contacts that she wasn't insane or crazy, but forced there against her will for no reason.

She had a feeling that Joey was looking into the box. Another one must have been found. Maybe something from Channard's Institute had followed her back here to New York. It wouldn't surprise her if it did. Anything that had to do with the Cenobites were now apart of her life. And it would be for the rest of her life. Not that she was complaining.

Her hands grabbed the Lament Configuration, turning it over and over. She traced the edges, but never opening it. One day, when she was tired of this life, she will. Then she will let Hell claim her soul, let him claim her soul and body. Anything to stay with him for eternity.

Night fell quickly upon the city. But the woman didn't sleep. She couldn't yet. There was much to still try to figure out.

Chapter 15

Notes:

There is small sex in this chapter. Don't like, don't read.

Face paced around the stage he had that was used in his performances. He hadn't been able to do a performance in so long. Not since that day. Every Cenobite now knew how much the Hell Priest meant to Face after his mental breakdown of cursing everything and everyone about how it was unfair and to bring him back. The Cenobite stopped, looking up into their sky at the God. Leviathan has long since reverted back to his original shape, going about as he did before. But what pissed Face off was the fact that most of the Cenobites acted like Pinhead didn't matter.

"He fucking mattered to me," he mumbled. "Rah!"

He picked up one of his props and threw it against the wall, watching as the glass shattered into millions of pieces. He knelt in the glass, staring blankly ahead of him at the back of the stage. Tears filled his eyes, pooling up before falling and soaking his face. He still felt the deep aching pain in his chest, in his heart and soul. There was many times that he was thinking of just ending himself as well to join Pinhead.

"Face?"

He looked behind him to see the blurry image of Nikoletta and her sister, Abigor. He stood up, the glass cracking and falling to the ground from his knees. He wiped away his tears the best he could before turning to fully face them.

"Yes?" he asked.

"How are you holding up?" Abigor asked.

"I'm not at all," Face said. "It still hurts deeply."

"It's almost that time, isn't it?" Nikoletta asked.

"Yes," Face confirmed. "It feels like forever and yet still fresh."

"He wouldn't want you like this," Abigor said. "You haven't done anything since he died."

"Of course I can't. I haven't even been able to do a performance since I found him," Face said. "There's so much I can't do because it hurts. He meant so much to me and more. I would have spent eternity with him."

"You're not thinking about killing yourself, are you?" Nikoletta asked.

"The idea has crossed my mind plenty of times. Maybe I'll just fuck someone off so much they'll kill me," said Face. "Anything to end the pain."

"Don't. He wouldn't want that," Nikoletta said.

"Then what else am I to do?" Face asked. "I don't have a purpose anymore. It died with Pinhead. Nothing feels right without him."

The two were quiet. He was right. Hell has been a lot more ordered and quiet since the death of the Hell Priest. Nothing felt right without him there, always watching and listening, always executing his duties with grace.

"Excuse me. If anyone needs me, you know where to find me," Face said, leaving the stage and off towards the direction of their God to mourn in Pinhead's chambers.

"I worry about him," Nikoletta said. "He is special to the Priest."

"I do too," said Abigor. "Though many of our kind would disagree. If he isn't careful, he will get killed by them."

"I don't think he would care, sister," Nikoletta said.

:0:

Hailey perked up at the phone ringing. She looked at the time and raised an eyebrow. Who the hell would be calling this late at night? She reached over, bringing it to her ear.

"Hello?"

"Hailey? This is Joey. Look, I may need your help after all. The girl that witnessed everything is here. Her name is Terri, used to date JP. She said that the victim got this box from a statue that her ex bought from some store. There was a paper with a drawing on it from the archives of the art gallery where he bought it from. But the owner hasn't been there in a while. I tried to call the people in charge of the Channard Archives and they said anything on someone named Kirsty Cotton was gone. Your name was in the files too. Do you think you might be able to help?"

"Yeah, I think I can. Might have something that can help you," said Hailey. "Should we meet up somewhere?"

"If you don't mind, I can head over to your place."

"Yeah, that's fine with me. I wasn't doing anything anyways," said Hailey, then giving her address to Joey.

"Great. Be there in 20."

"Alright," said Hailey, hanging up the phone.

Well, in a way she wasn't doing anything. She had brought out the Lament Configuration and was staring at it from its spot on the coffee table corner. She was getting lost in memories of when she was in Hell walking casually with Pinhead. She even wore the new outfit she had bought to feel closer to him. But now her thoughts wandered to what it was that Joey and this Terri were getting themselves into. If she didn't need Joey's help like what Elliot said, she wouldn't be talking to her about this stuff at all. Even then, the cat was out of the bag. Her name was there in those files with Kirsty Cotton's.

Hailey heard the knock at the door. She got up, pulling down her shirt. She opened it to find Joey and another girl standing at her doorstep to her apartment.

"Hey Joey," Hailey said.

"Hey. This is Terri. She's the one who found the box I was talking to you about. She was there when the victim opened it," said Joey. "You said you had something that might help?"

"Yeah, I do. Come on in," Hailey said. "Take a seat on the couch. I'll go get it."

Joey and Terri sat down together while Hailey went to her room and pulled out the cardboard box containing papers she got from the Institute. She put it down on the coffee table, flipping the lid off with a flick of the wrist.

"Well, that's everything from the Channard Institute that I was able to grab," said Hailey. Joey leaned forward and sifted through things, pulling out the tape. "And for the record, I was forced there. I didn't have a choice to leave. I tried to leave and was kept there. So whatever in there about me, might be wrong since Channard was really fucked up in the head. Kirsty on the other hand should all be real."

"What's this?" Joey asked, looking at the tape and reading the name Cotton.

"Oh, that's some interview of Kirsty Cotton," said Hailey. "I just grabbed everything on her and me."

"Isn't that the tape you were calling about?" Terri asked.

"Yeah it is," said Joey. "They said it was missing from the Archives."

"Well, there you go," said Hailey.

"And what about this?" Joey asked, pointing to the Lament Configuration at the corner of the table.

"Oh, that's mine," said Hailey, immediately grabbing it.

"That's just like the one we have," said Joey. "Where did you get it from?"

"Look, it's a long story that I would rather not get into," said Hailey. "But I've had this for a few years now."

"Is it real?" Terri asked.

"Yeah," said Hailey. "It summons the Cenobites. Or as Kirsty calls them, demons. Take what you want of the stuff on her and the tape."

"Thanks," said Joey.

"I'm warning you right now. You are going in deep in this. Don't fall down the rabbit hole. You won't be able to get out," said Hailey. "Tread carefully. I don't know how much you can handle of this. But know this, don't get in my way of what I need to do. This is a dangerous game you both have been sucked into. Something is going to happen, and neither of you might like it. So stay safe, and be cautious of anything unusual. I do my own thing, you do yours."

"And what is that?" the older woman asked.

"Something you don't need to concern yourself about," Hailey said, her voice holding an edge and went a bit deeper in her threat. "You don't want to make me an enemy. Kirsty already did that."

"Let's get out of here. We got what you need," said Terri.

"Alright," said Joey. "I'll have this returned to you when I'm done."

"Thank you," said Hailey. "I hope it helps. Good luck. And stay safe."

Joey grabbed the small box of papers and the tape before heading out with Terri following. Hailey rolled her eyes. She had a feeling that Terri wouldn't last long. She could smell something off about that woman, like she's been jumping around for years. No wonder she was at the club. She was one of the many, many women that Monroe fucked too. And girlfriend? Yeah right. Monroe would claim someone as a girlfriend, but then just dump them once he had fucked them enough. The only time he called anyone a girlfriend was if he liked how they were in bed.

Hailey grabbed a bottle of some whiskey, pouring herself a glass. She didn't indulge in alcohol, but on very rare occasions she did have a glass when she was extremely stressed out. Hailey kept the Lament Configuration with her as she sat in her chair in front of the large window, looking out over the city. Something was stirring up really soon.

It didn't take long her Hailey to finish her glass and fall asleep in the chair, gripping the box. The glass fell and broke, startling Hailey awake. She rubbed her eyes before she saw something in the glass that wasn't the city. It looked like the bunker in her dreams. She walked up to the window, touching it. She was surprised to find that her hand passed through.

Taking a breath, Hailey walked through. She looked around the bunker, but didn't see Elliot. She walked further in, lightly touching the items left on the bed. It didn't take long before a presence was behind her.

"It is almost time," his soft voice said.

"Do you think we will succeed?" Hailey asked.

"I do," Elliot said, turning her around to face her. He greeted her with a kiss.

"I can get used to that," said Hailey with a smirk.

"There's a lot more you'll get used to," said Elliot with a light growl. "I do so love this outfit on you. It is very fitting and arousing."

"Oh yeah?" Hailey smirked. She leaned in really close, putting her mouth right next to his ear as she whispered her next few words. "Show me."

Elliot felt shivers run up his spine as she licked his ear and down to his neck, nibbling a bit. He grabbed her arms, pulling her back enough to kiss her. He led her back to the bed, pushing everything off and laying her down. He broke off the kiss, going down to her neck and then her chest. His hands traveled up her shirt, pulling it off of her. Hailey watched as he worked, growing more aroused as he went further down. Her dominant side was coming out, something that had been repressed for so long because of Dean.

"Are you still alright?" Elliot asked.

"Yeah," Hailey said.

"Good. I wouldn't do something you wouldn't like," said Elliot. "You have my word."

Hailey shimmied her pants off for him, wanting more. She wanted him to explore her. Just as she wanted to explore him as well. Elliot looked up at her before moving a hand down to her nether regions. He grabbed her underwear in his teeth, pulling them off and going back up. He put his mouth on her slit, licking from her hole to her clit. He sucked lightly, never taking his eyes off of her face. Hailey arched her hips up, enjoying the sensations of pleasure running through her. Before she knew it, he had two fingers buried into her pussy, rubbing all inside her.

"You're so beautiful," Elliot whispered.

"Curl your fingers more," Hailey ordered, leaning up onto her elbows to watch. One hand grabbed his wrist and pushed in a bit deeper. "Right there!"

Elliot understood. His nails lightly scratched at her hot spot, making her more wet. His other thumb went to her clit, rubbing in circles. She knew she was approaching fast. And Elliot knew it too. He rubbed harder, wanting to see her cum for him. One final rub sent her over the edge. Hailey moaned loudly, gripping the bedsheets and moving her hips up and down. When she came off her high, she looked down, seeing Elliot had pulled out and was licking his fingers clean.

"My turn," Hailey said, grabbing him and trading spots. "I wonder how vocal you are."

"Quite vocal, my dear," said Elliot.

"Good," Hailey said, stripping all of his own clothing off and tossing it to the ground.

Hailey didn't waste any time. She kissed Elliot as she grabbed his cock, stroking it roughly. Elliot moaned loudly into her mouth. Damn she was so good. She made sure he was hard before straddling him. Her own moans echoed his own as she felt his member fill her up. He was larger than Dean or anyone else she had fucked. That much was for sure. Elliot grabbed her arms, his grip tight as he was consumed by pleasure.

Hailey started to move, taking the lead. And Elliot allowed her to. She was the only one he has allowed to dominate him and take control. They both felt complete, just the way they were meant to.

"F-Faster," Elliot begged. "Please... f-faster... ah!"

"I want us to cum together," Hailey said, clenching her pussy tighter.

"Ah!" Elliot grabbed her hips and pulled her down.

"Fuck!" Hailey gasped, feeling both their orgasms.

She slumped down on top of him, both breathing heavily. Hailey kissed him, staring into his eyes.

"As much as that was enjoyable, it is time," Elliot said.

"Time?" Hailey repeated. "Oh, time."

"Yes," Elliot said, sitting up and dislodging himself from her.

"Will I see you again?" Hailey asked.

"Yes, I believe so," said Elliot.

"Well, then I guess I must be going," said Hailey, gathering her clothes and getting dressed again. Elliot got dressed as well, stopping Hailey just before she returned to her apartment.

"Have faith and courage Hailey," Elliot said, giving her one last kiss. "It will be okay."

"I trust you," Hailey said. "See you soon, Elliot."

"The same, my dear," Elliot said.

Hailey found herself back in the apartment, staring out the window and into dark and rain. She looked at her Lament Configuration in her hand. She knew it was getting close. Grabbing her black leather jacket, Hailey headed outside and towards the church. She just needed to wait a little bit longer. She passed by the Boiler Room, noticing it was oddly quiet. Hailey took a deep breath and still continued on her mission.

Chapter 16

Notes:

There is more sexual content in this chapter as well.

"Welcome in, my child," the priest said, giving Hailey a warm smile.

"Thank you, father," Hailey said.

"What brings you here?" he asked.

"Oh, just a gut feeling that I need to be here tonight. Maybe to ponder on my life," said Hailey. "I've been through Hell and back. I guess I just need to straighten out my life."

"Take as much time as you need child," the priest said. "I shall pray for you as well."

"Thank you," Hailey said, taking a seat in the front row near the alter.

The priest went back to his alter, starting a series of words in prayer to God. She sat there, fiddling with her own box. She just hoped that Elliot was right. She didn't know how much time had gone by before the doors were slammed open. Hailey looked back to see Joey coming in, holding a Lament Congfiguration as well. The priest went towards her.

"My child, what's the matter? What on Earth is the matter?" he asked.

"I have to get back to my apartment. Back to the window," Joey said. "But they just keep coming."

"Who keeps coming?" he asked.

"The demons. The demons," Joey said.

'Again, with the repeated. Jeez, why must they always repeat themselves?' Hailey thought to herself with a roll of her eyes.

"Demons? Demons aren't real. They're parables, metaphors," the priest said.

The doors opened once more, light streaming through. Hailey's heart pounded. It was him. Tears pricked at her eyes. She never thought she would see him again. But she knew he wasn't the same.

"Then what the fuck is that?" Joey asked, pointing at him. She grabbed the priest, pulling him along. "Come on. Come on!"

As he walked down the aisle, the stain glass windows shattered. Hailey stood up as well, clutching her box to her chest.

"Pinhead," she said. "Oh no."

Hailey barely acknowledged the priest and Joey. Her only concern was Pinhead and slowing his advance down.

"Thou shalt not bow down before any graven images," Pinhead said, melting the cross in the priest's hand.

Hailey watched as he went up behind the alter, knocking things down. He then reached up behind and pulled out a nail from his hand, shoving it through his hand. Then he did the same to the other hand.

"I am the way," Pinhead said, laughing like an insane person. The window behind him shattered as did the alter.

"No!" the priest shouted, breaking free and going to him. "You'll burn in Hell for this!"

"Burn?" Pinhead asked, stopping the priest and forcing him to his knees. He traced the blood on the priest's forehead. "Oh, such a limited imagination."

Pinhead then took a piece of flesh, something Hailey couldn't quite see where it came from.

"This is my body. This is my blood. Happy are they who come to my supper," Pinhead said, shoving it into the priest's mouth.

Joey clicked the box. Hailey turned to see the blue flash disappear. Pinhead looked up as well, anger flashing in his eyes. Hailey went to Joey.

"Do not provoke him," Hailey warned with a serious tone in her voice.

"Out of the way," Joey said, shoving the box out. "This is what you want. So come get it!"

Joey ran away, Hailey cursing under her breath. Pinhead started to give chase, but Hailey stood in his way. She grabbed onto him.

"Pinhead, stop! This isn't you!" Hailey said, staring up into his black eyes. "You aren't yourself."

"Out of my way, girl!" he growled.

"You don't remember, do you? It's me, Hailey," she said, putting his wrist up to hers. She pulled his sleeve partly down. "See? We are soulmates."

"Soulmates?" he echoed.

"Yes," she said. "I thought I had lost you."

"Then we shall be together soon in a new and better world," Pinhead said, his eyes softening. Then he remembered the task at hand and scowled. "After I take care of the nuisance."

Pinhead shoved her aside, knocking her into some shattered glass and cutting her. Hailey cursed, pulling out the large shards of glass from her hands. She looked around for her box, grabbing it once more and giving chase. She had lost sight of him.

"Damn," Hailey mumbled. "Where are you?"

She heard Joey screaming and followed the noise. She saw Pinhead standing upon a small mound from the construction site. She ran to him, wrapping her arms around his waist. He stumbled, nearly losing his balance and falling. But he was able to stay standing. He felt the woman's face press into his back as her arms wrapped tightly around his waist.

"Pinhead, stop! I don't want you to get hurt!" Hailey begged.

"Let go of me!" Pinhead demanded.

"Play with this, Pinhead!" Joey growled, shoving the box outwards.

Hailey watched in horror as the handmade Cenobites were zapped one by one before Pinhead was as well. Hailey didn't let go of him. Her body started to feel tingly. But that didn't make her stop holding onto him.

"No!" she screamed. "I'm not losing you again!"

She closed her eyes tightly, keeping the tears from coming out. She felt a weightlessness before she found herself in the bunker again where she had met Elliot. She looked around, confused.

"Pinhead?" she called out. "Elliot?"

"I'm here," Elliot said, coming up behind her. "You did well, my dear."

"Elliot," she breathed.

"He hurt you," Elliot said, looking at her bleeding hands. "I'm so sorry."

"Don't be. I don't care," Hailey said. "Where is he at?"

"He will be here soon. I can feel him," said Elliot. "Joey gave him the box. She was tricked by his cunning nature."

"I still have mine. The one I was given when I first met you. Him. You know what I mean," said Hailey.

"Yes," said Elliot.

"Then what?" Hailey asked.

"Then I will face him," said Elliot, cupping her cheek. "Remember to stay strong. No matter what happens, everything will be okay."

The air around them shifted. Pinhead appeared, looking confused. Joey was there as well, sitting on the ground. Hailey saw the other Lament Configuration in his hand while the other held a blade from his belt. Elliot pushed Hailey behind him to protect her, giving her flashbacks to the Labyrinth.

"Couldn't resist playing games, could you?" Elliot asked his other half. Pinhead turned to face his good side. "You had to come through the window of her mind."

Joey attempted to crawl away. Hailey ignored the woman, and took a step towards the two men. Elliot held a hand back at her, telling her to stop her advance, which she did.

"But now you are in my dominion. And now, we are going to Hell," Elliot said, stopping a few feet from the Cenobite.

"Ladies first," Pinhead said, turning back to Joey.

Chains shot out and wrapped themselves around Joey. The same thing was done to Hailey as it was to the other woman. Elliot turned to see Hailey in the same position as Joey.

"No!" Elliot cried out.

"You like them better this way. Trust me," Pinhead said, using his powers to add a harness around them, leaving them both in a vulnerable position. But his eyes traveled along Hailey's body. She was a lot more appetizing to look at. He brought Hailey forward with the chains until she was between him and Elliot. Pinhead chuckled, pressing himself up against Hailey. He brushed her hair out of her face, tracing his cold fingers against her neck. Hailey felt her nipples get hard and shivers run down her spine.

"Why resist? You love this as much as I," Pinhead said, keeping his eyes on Elliot as his hand traveled between her breasts and down into her pants. "After all, you made me. There's a world out there waiting to yield to us. imagine what we can do together with her at our side. Our soulmate. So much flesh, so many different pleasures. We can explore them all together. We are so much alike."

Elliot's eyes looked around, trying to find a way to get Hailey out of there safely. Even with a contraption around her face, her moans of pleasure rang out more than Joey's moans of fear. Elliot knew he had to get the Lament Configuration away from the Cenobite. Pinhead carefully moved his fingers in and out of Hailey's hole, still feeling her wetness from the earlier activities with Elliot.

"She's so ready for us," Pinhead said. "She is ours, after all. Why not come partake of what belongs to us?"

The ground beneath them shook, a creature emerging with crying noises and chains around it. A chain was attached to a collar around the appendage in the middle, white, thick cum leaking from it. Hailey looked down at it, some hooks tearing at her clothes and revealing her lower regions. The creature got closer, the mandibles on it retracting back.

"You're right. We do belong together," Elliot said, taking a step closer. His eyes spoke to Hailey, telling her to trust him. She nodded a bit.

The creature attached itself to her crotch, the middle appendage penetrating her. Hailey threw her head back and moaned loudly. It wasn't as large as Elliot, but it was more textured. Pinhead grinned, pulling away from Hailey and behind Elliot. He grabbed Elliot's arms, restraining him on the spot. They both watched as Hell's creature fucked the woman, filling her with its cum.

"You can't resist. I know you can't. You want more done," Pinhead whispered, a hand traveling up to Elliot's throat.

The hand with the Lament Configuration rubbed it against the front of Elliot's pants, stimulating his cock. Elliot's hips bucked up into the touch, feeling the cold fingers tighten around his neck as it was pulled back. Pinhead bit into his neck, keeping him right there. Another chain came and ripped into Elliot's pants, leaving him exposed as well.

It didn't take long before Pinhead moved his cassock aside, penetrating Elliot's ass. He bucked up into the man, keeping his cock rubbing against the box while his other hand kept Elliot's head back. Pinhead stopped biting, looking up at Hailey. She watched with hunger at the scene, becoming even more aroused by what she was seeing. Pinhead fucked Elliot as hard and fast as he can, becoming rough and unrelenting against his human half. Elliot cried out with pain and pleasure, his cock starting to leak precum.

Elliot grabbed the wrist that was behind him, making Pinhead drop the Lament Configuration. The chains around Joey faded away as Elliot kicked the box over to the blonde. Then he came with Pinhead and Hailey. His semen shot out all over the floor as he was filled from behind. Hailey moaned with her own and quaked, the creature filling her even more to the point she had a small bump in her stomach from how much of its fluids filled her.

"We will be together," Elliot said, pulling free from the Cenobite and grabbing him.

The two started to merge together into one, screaming in the fight of trying to overtake the other. Pinhead was winning, but he was becoming one once more. Hailey saw as the creature and her bonds disappeared as well, dropping her to the ground. Once they were together, Pinhead opened up his eyes, glaring down at Joey.

"Now, where were we?" Pinhead asked, grabbing up his blade once more to kill the blonde. But something stopped him.

"Joey, send me to Hell!" Elliot said, coming through, but quickly disappearing again.

Her bloodied fingers traced over the Lament Configuration, trying to get it to open. She gasped as it started to change to a different shape. Before Hailey had time to fully recover, she looked up at Joey's final words as Pinhead approached closer.

"Go to Hell," Joey snarled.

"NO! PINHEAD!" Hailey screamed in horror.

She watched as he stumbled back, the now changed form of the box stabbed into his chest, right where his heart was. He convulsed, trying to tear it out. His screams of pain struck Hailey deeply. She got up, ignoring how sore she was and ran to him, grabbing on. She tried to pull it free from his chest, but her hands were too slippery from all the blood covering them. The diamond started to spark and crackle, glowing blue and orange. It shocked her and sent her flying back into the wall, right next to Joey.

She tried to get back up but couldn't. She watched helplessly as he disappeared. The box exploded as well, becoming destroyed. Hailey and Joey covered their eyes from the explosion, only to find themselves back at the construction site when they opened them back up. Even Hailey's clothes were back to normal.

"No, nononono," Hailey whimpered, hugging herself and rocking back and forth. "No!"

She scratched at her arms and face, despair running through her. He was gone again. He wasn't there! Joey picked up Hailey's Lament Configuration, looking at it with disgust. She saw some wet cement nearby, shoving the box inside to hide it away.

"Hailey!"

Joey saw a man run down the dirt hill, sliding and tumbling. He knelt down next to Hailey, immediately wrapping his arms around her. Hailey grabbed on, crying and screaming into his chest with everything she had until she passed out. Harry picked her up bridal style, shaking his head.

"You must be Joey Summerskill, right?" Harry asked.

"Yeah. And who are you?" Joey asked.

"Long story. What happened?" Harry asked.

"The demon is gone back to Hell I guess. The box is gone too," said Joey. "Simple as that."

"Alright. You better get home. I'll take care of Hailey," said Harry.

"Good enough for me," said Joey, walking back the way she had come.

Chapter 17

"Actually, can you come back with me? I have a few questions," Harry called out just before Joey went out of sight.

"Sure," Joey said. "But I don't know how much you will believe."

"You'd be surprised by the shit I deal with," Harry said. "Come on."

Harry walked back up the mound, carrying Hailey in his arms to the car. He set her in the front seat before opening the door for Joey to get in. He drove the small distance to Hailey's apartment. When they got inside, Harry put Hailey on the couch, going to the bathroom to grab a cold, wet washcloth and placing it on her head. Then he wrapped up her hands with some bandages from a first aid kit she kept in the bathroom. Joey had her arms crossed, eyes narrowed at Hailey. Harry moved her so her head rested on his lap.

"Alright, tell me what happened from the start," Harry said.

"Well, it started when I saw someone with chains coming off of him and he exploded," said Joey, recounting her side of what she had witnessed, including what she saw in the dream world.

"Fuck," Harry muttered.

"What is her fucking deal? Is she fucking demons now cause she can't get any?" Joey snapped.

"No. That's her soulmate," said Harry. "He sounds different than what I had heard of him. Something must have happened to him for him to go off the deep end."

"Yeah, some soulmate," Joey said, her anger cutting through. "Doc is dead and so is Terri! All because of that fucking demon! On top of countless of other people."

"I know it is bad," said Harry. "She's been through Hell and back. Quite literally too."

"I don't care. My friends are dead now. She's fucking insane to love someone evil," Joey said.

"I don't care," Hailey said.

Both looked to her, seeing her eyes were staring up at the ceiling. But there was no shine to her eyes. They were dull and almost lifeless. Hailey sat up, looking around. Her eyes widened and she started to hyperventilate. Harry put a hand on her back.

"Hailey, slow breaths," Harry said.

"Where's my box?! I had it at the construction site!" Hailey panicked.

"I didn't see your box," said Harry. "Joey, did you see her box?"

"No, I didn't. I only knew of the one I had," Joey lied.

"Damnit!" Hailey screamed, grabbing whatever she could, which was a lamp, and throwing it across the room. Then she picked up her book and tossed it too.

"Joey, I think it is best you leave now," Harry said.

"Yeah, I was thinking the same," Joey said, walking out of the apartment.

Hailey continued to throw things around, making a mess in the apartment. She was crying and shaking. Harry watched as she let her anger out, making sure she didn't hurt herself further. Hailey finally ran out of steam, kneeling in the middle of the mess and staring blankly at the floor.

"Hails, why don't you go take a shower? I'll clean up here and order us some food," Harry suggested.

Hailey nodded slowly, getting up and walking to the bathroom. She stripped out of her clothes, sitting down in the tub and turning the water to the hottest temperature she could handle. Harry sighed. He didn't like what this was doing to Hailey. Maybe it was best if she just didn't go after her soulmate anymore. This whole thing was changing her and pushing her down a deep hole of depression.

Harry spent the next hour cleaning up the apartment and ordering Chinese takeout for delivery while Hailey was showering. He would have to rewrap her hands afterwards too. But suddenly his pager went off. He looked at it, cursing. He went to the bathroom, knocking on it.

"Hails? Hey, I was just called into work. Are you going to be okay by yourself for a bit?" Harry asked.

"Yeah. Go to work," said Hailey. "I'll be fine."

"Alright. Food is here. It's on the coffee table by the couch. Make sure you eat something please. I'll be back soon," said Harry.

"Okay," Hailey said.

Harry grabbed his jacket and headed out. He was called in by his partner to go to the Boiler Room club. He knew already where this was going. He really didn't want to leave Hailey, but he had to go. He drove to the crime scene, news reporters already swarming the area to try to get the latest story.

"Tim, what is it?" Harry asked. "I was just with Hailey. She isn't doing good."

"Then we'll make this as fast as we can," said Tim. "Over 200 dead people, most of them young adults. No one is alive. It is a fucking blood bath. The owner of the club is no where to be found. The chaos stretches beyond here."

"Where else?" Harry asked, going inside the club and seeing the massacre inside. "Jesus."

"Yeah," Tim said. "It goes down the street. A few officers were killed in the attack going on. It goes all the way to the old church. The priest is traumatized and won't stop talking about demons."

"So that's why they called us in," said Harry. "They think this is all supernatural."

"According to the witness. So far, he's the only one that we know of that has seen part of what happened. Everyone else is dead," said Tim.

"What a fucking mess," Harry said. "You stay here and do whatever. Send me any copies of pictures and reports. I'm staying with Hailey for a while, so drop it off at my place. You have the key. I'll go down and follow this trail."

"Got it partner," said Tim.

Harry walked down the steps and out to the streets again, ignoring the news reporters trying to ask him questions. He went through the crime scene down the street, seeing more bodies. Then he wandered his way to the church, seeing a few officers there as well. In the back of the ambulance, the priest sat with a shock blanket over him. Harry went up to him.

"Father, I know you had been through a lot. But can you tell me what happened?" Harry asked gently.

"That demon... he had nails in his skull... he defiled my church," the priest broke down, sobs wracking his body.

"Alright. We'll get you to the hospital and some help," said Harry. "I'll send an officer to get your side when you are better and calmer."

Harry went into the church, flashing his badge to the young officers there. He looked around, seeing colored glass everywhere. The alter was destroyed too and blood splattered up near the front. Two candles were mashed down and cold near the remains of the alter. He groaned, hanging his head. He was going to have a Hell of a time trying to cover this up. He would have to figure something out.

:0:

His dark eyes opened slowly, his God the first thing he saw, who was back to his original state. Pinhead groaned, sitting up from the roof of the building he used to commune with his God.

"You are awake."

"Yes, Lord Leviathan," Pinhead said, kneeling down immediately.

"I am disappointed. You have caused chaos upon Earth."

"My apologies. I was not myself," said Pinhead.

"It doesn't matter. You will be stripped of your titles until I deem you worthy of them. You will remain in your chambers until your punishment is over."

"Yes, my Lord," Pinhead said, secretly relieved that it wasn't a worse punishment. "Thank you."

He got up again, walking down the steps and to his chamber. He opened the door, stepping over the threshold. He was startled to find a familiar Cenobite in his chambers, who was standing out by the balcony, staring out. Face turned when he heard someone enter, tears springing into his eyes.

His bottom lip trembled as he sniffled, trying to hold himself together. But he failed. Face burst out into tears as he launched himself at his friend.

"Pinhead!" Face shouted. Pinhead caught himself against the wall, looking down as Face hugged him tightly. "God... I t-thought you were... my blood wasn't working on you... I tried..."

"Shhh... I am fine Face," Pinhead said. "I am back."

"Wh-what happened?" Face asked. Pinhead explained how he became unbound and caused trouble up on Earth in his freedom, as well as his punishment. "Well, it could be worse. I've heard of some Cenobites being changed back into a human."

"Yes, I am rather fortunate," Pinhead said. "How long have I been out?"

"The rumors started a few weeks ago that you were back. But no one had seen you, so we thought it was all fake," said Face. "Your Gash will be happy to see you again."

"My Gash? They live?" he asked.

"Yeah. I revived them with my blood, but I couldn't do it for you. But given your soul was split, it would make sense why," said Face. "I'm just so glad you are back. Nothing was the same without you."

"I am glad to return too," said Pinhead. "The only thing is I am concerned about Hailey."

"Hailey? That girl that was here when that whole hot mess went down?" Face clarified.

"Yes, my soulmate," he confirmed. "She must be so worried and think I am dead. Yet, there is nothing I can do until I serve my time."

"I'll see about checking up on her when I go to Earth when summoned by the box if I'm near her," Face offered.

"Thank you, Face," said Pinhead.

"I'll go let the Gash know," said Face. "I'll see you later, Pinhead."

Pinhead nodded, watching as the other Cenobite left. He then went to his bed, laying down on it. Even though he didn't require sleep to function, he still could if he wanted to. He stared up in the darkness, his thoughts running through the memories as he tried to sort himself out. He couldn't believe he did that to Hailey in the dream world. Even if it was real there, it would feel real in the other world too. But he was more concerned about Hailey's mental state. He knew how unstable she had been when he saw her again. She tried to hide it, but he could see it.

"Please, hold on Hailey. I will be with you again," Pinhead whispered, closing his eyes to rest. He was still exhausted from his adventure and return.

Chapter 18

Harry groaned as he hit his head on his desk. His partner looked up from the paperwork, raising an eyebrow up at him. He couldn't just tell Tim what he knew. But this was getting bad. From everything he had learned, this demon was one of the most powerful ones ever, much stronger than he originally thought. And Hailey was mixed up in it all. Soulmate or not, this was changing her, and not in a way that he liked.

"What is it?" Tim asked, setting down the paper he held.

"This whole fucking thing," Harry said. "There's no way to catch this guy. We've had to deal with missing persons for a while, but this is just all new together. It's different."

"Different how?" Tim asked.

"Each last known location had a faint smell of vanilla and incense. This time, it was stronger. I'm sure this is linked with the missing persons," said Harry.

"The ones you reported as gone forever to their own fates?" Tim clarified.

"Yes," said Harry. "I don't see any way to stop it all. I don't think there really is."

"Don't be so negative," Tim said. "It's going to kill you."

"It is just a fucking mess that I can't clean up," said Harry. "I need a break. Want anything?"

"Probably just the regular coffee, black," said Tim.

"Alright," said Harry, grabbing his jacket and heading for the small shop just below their office.

"Harry, haven't seen you in a while," a woman said.

"I've been working Darla," Harry said.

"Too much at that," said Darla. "The usual."

"Yeah," Harry said, leaning against the counter and rubbing his face. "Better make it a double for me."

"Rough case?" Darla said.

"Yeah," Harry said.

"Well, a piece of advice," Darla said. "Try looking closer to home than you expect. The answer may be right under your nose."

"Thanks," Harry said.

"No problem. Here you go," she said, setting down the drinks in a holder.

Harry paid for the drinks before heading back up. He set the coffees down on the desk, passing his partner his order. Tim took the coffee, taking a sip of it. Harry looked down at the papers scattering his desk, tapping the desk with his knuckles a few times.

"Go home, Harry," Tim said. "I'll handle this. We got the shit with the Boiler Room and downtown solved already. The captain is satisfied with the report we gave him. Now go rest. You've been at this for weeks now."

"Alright," Harry said.

"I mean it," Tim said, his tone sharp like a parent getting on their child.

"Yeah, yeah," Harry said, waving and heading out with his coffee.

He went to his car, setting the coffee into the two cup holders. He started it up, getting ready to head back to his apartment. He drove down the street, his mind traveling back to the information he managed to gather about this Hell Priest and Cenobites. There's been cases and reports of such creatures being rumored with a Lament Configuration, showing up to drag you to Hell when you opened it. And it was more than just the boxes. It was other puzzles as well, certain ones cursed to bring forth the demons of Hell.

He nearly slammed on his breaks when something caught his eye. He watched as two police cars were parked to the side, two officers talking to a woman. He cursed, flipping around and parking behind the officers. He pulled out his badge, flashing it to them.

"What seems to be the problem?" Harry asked.

"This young woman keeps hanging around the construction site," the officer said.

"I never stepped foot onto it," she defended.

"The owner says otherwise," the other officer said.

"I'll take it from here. She's apart of my investigation," Harry said, grabbing her arm and pulling her to his car. "God, Hailey, what are you thinking?"

"I already told you. I never set foot onto the site. Not since that day. I was just looking from the sidewalk," Hailey said. "The construction workers are just complaining cause I'm not giving them any."

"Look, get in the car, and we'll talk about it," said Harry.

Hailey rolled her eyes, getting in the car and crossing her arms over her chest. She watched the two officers get in their cars and leave. Then her eyes went back to the construction site.

"What is really going on?" Harry asked when he closed his door.

"Nothing is," said Hailey.

"Don't give me that bullshit excuse," Harry snapped. "I know you. You're lying."

"I just feel closer to him there, okay! Is that good enough for you?!" Hailey snapped back.

"Hailey, you're getting yourself too deep into this. For the love of God, please find someone else to love. You're obsessing over this demon. It isn't healthy for you," Harry said. "I don't care who you choose. Just stop with this obsession. You can't love a demon."

"Fuck you," Hailey seethed, getting out of the car and standing on the sidewalk. "I don't want to see you again, Harry! Stay the fuck away from me!"

Hailey slammed his door shut and stormed off in the opposite direction of her home. She held herself, trying to blink away the tears. But she couldn't help it. She found herself in a park, sitting down under a tree away from people. She started to cry, holding her knees up to her chest. Out of everyone she had trusted, she would think Harry would always be at her side. But she should have known eventually he wouldn't. She didn't care what happened to her. She just wanted her soulmate, even if it meant letting him take her soul to Hell.

Dark emerged on the city, and the night world began. She got up, deciding she should probably head home. She hailed a cab, having it drop her off outside the apartments. She went up, slipping off her shoes and stumbling to her room. She went to the bathroom, turning on the shower to the hottest temperature she could handle. She always took a shower when she was depressed just to sit under the water.

She stripped down, sitting down and letting the hot water pound on her. She felt tired and mentally exhausted. Her eyes hurt when she blinked from all the crying she had done earlier. She vaguely was aware of the phone ringing off the line. But she ignored it. An hour later, the water ran cold, and she got out. She didn't bother to really get dressed, just heading to her bed and laying down. The voicemail was filled up, and she just let it play to get rid of them all, deleting as she went.

"Hailey, it's Harry. Please answer me-"

"Hailey, come on ple-"

"I know you're igno-"

"Hails-"

"Will you just hear me ou-"

And the messages continued. She deleted each one from Harry, not even bothering to listen to them. She took the phone off of the line so it wouldn't ring before she fell asleep, curled up under her blankets and holding herself.

Hailey moaned as the arms around her pulled her in closer, a hand brushing through her hair, massaging her scalp. Cold lips and hard nails pressed against her neck, sending shivers down her spine. Her eyes fluttered open, seeing that she was in a different room. It was dark and filled with red. She turned around, surprised to find herself in Pinhead's arms. He leaned down, pressing a kiss to her in greeting.

"Pinhead," she breathed. "Is it really you?"

"Yes," he said.

"But... how?" she asked.

"My magic. I was able to reach out to you through your dreams," he answered.

"I'm glad," she said, wrapping her arms around him and straddling him. She rested her head above where his heart was. "I've missed you so much."

"I have missed you as well, Hailey," he said.

"Where are we at?" she asked.

"My chambers," Pinhead said. "I am to remain until released."

"Why?" she questioned, tilting her head.

"It is my punishment for my acts on Earth when I was unbound," he said. "Leviathan was not pleased with me."

"That wasn't your fault. You couldn't control it," said Hailey.

"I still must be punished," he said. "But fear not. I do not think it will be long. I am needed in Hell for my duties as the favored son."

"Still stupid," she said.

"Yes. For now, I wish to spend what time I do have with you before you awaken," he said. "You must be cold. Here."

Hailey watched him pull up a warm blanket over her naked body. She blushed, not fully realizing that she was naked in her dreams as she was in real life. She nodded her thanks, pulling the blanket around her shoulders before settling on him. She felt just content laying there. She closed her eyes, breathing in his scent. Pinhead rubbed her back, humming softly. She started to relax more, feeling much safer in his arms. Everything negative on her just melted away. She didn't have a worry in the world.

"Will I see you again?" she asked.

"Yes," he said.

"But I don't have my box anymore. I don't know what happened to it after going into that dream world with Joey," said Hailey. "I've tried to look for it."

"It will come to you once more," he said. "Trust me."

"I always will," she said.

"Rest. Your mind is exhausted beyond its capability," he said.

He started to hum once more. Hailey closed her eyes again, resting against him. He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. She fell asleep.

Chapter 19

Notes:

The only thing from Bloodline I am using is with Angelique. The whole space part and all that will not be in my story at all or in the future. I didn't like that part. I am only using that middle part of Bloodline for the story. After that, the rest is AU.

...two years later...

Pinhead felt the pull. He knew his God was summoning him. It felt like many eternities since he was last out of his chambers. He stood from his bed before walking out. He climbed the stairs up to the top of the building, kneeling down in respect.

"My Lord, you summoned me?" Pinhead asked.

"I have a task for you. If you succeed, then you shall get your titles back and free from punishment."

"What is the task?" he asked, looking up.

"My daughter, Angelique. She has been gone for eternities after being summoned by a sorcerer Duc De Ilse and his assistant. She has been freed from both recently. I want you to bring her back home."

"I shall, my Lord," said Pinhead.

The black light bathed the Hell Priest in light. He was shown images of Angelique as her time as a demon, then a brief look of her human skin and the making of the box.

"She is searching for the Lament Configuration. It will call to her. Once the box is opened, go and retrieve her."

"Yes, Lord Leviathan," Pinhead said, getting up and getting ready. He left into the Labyrinth below, summoning his pet to accompany him. "Come, we must be ready."

The dog growled and yipped, teeth chattering away. As much as he wanted to go to Hailey right away, he did have a job to do. But he would find a way to her. He always felt close to her most of the time. Something had blocked his magic from working right, but now he felt a lot stronger. He would go visit her once more in her dreams until he was called by the box. He lead his pet to his chambers, having him sit outside. He needed to see her.

:0:

Hailey looked up at the new building, removing her sunglasses. It was finally done, having been delayed due to bad weather. There was a large covering over a sculpture in front. She decided to apply to whoever worked here. It was the only place she felt close to Pinhead since the fight took place here. The closer she was to the building, the more she could sense him. She hadn't seen him again since that night, but she had been doing a lot better. She hadn't seen Harry at all, but he never tried to stop calling her at night once a week.

"Well Hailey, you can do this," she said.

Hailey walked inside the building, gasping in shock. Despite it being new, there was already so much inside. But the thing that got her the most was the decorations on the walls. She stood in amazement, feeling even more drawn in.

"Amazing, isn't it?" a man asked.

"Yes," Hailey said, turning her head to find a taller man with brown hair.

"John Merchant. I'm the one that creates it all," he introduced.

"Hailey Cross," she said, shaking his hand.

"What brings you here, Miss Cross?" he asked.

"I was actually looking for a job here," she said. "I can do any position that I can that is available."

"And what brought you to work specifically here?" he continued.

"Just something about the building called to me," said Hailey.

"Can you do paperwork, finances, reports, orders, computer works?" John asked.

"Yes," she said.

"Then you're hired. I've been urgently looking for an assistant," he said. "There's just so much to do. And I can't stay late with my wife and kid at home."

"Really? Well, thank you," Hailey said.

"Can you start today? I can get you all set up," John said.

"Yes, of course," Hailey said.

"Excellent. Right this way," John said, leading her away to his office.

:0:

"Hailey, I'm sorry. I don't know how many times I have to apologize, but I will keep doing so. Please, just call me back or something."

Harry hung up the phone, rubbing his face. Tim looked at his partner, giving him a sympathetic look.

"You still haven't told me what all happened," Tim said. "What happened between you two?"

"I fucked up. I told her something I shouldn't have. Now she wants nothing to do with me," Harry said.

"And that was?" Tim pushed. "Harry, you know you can tell me anything. We've been partners for years."

"That demon we were after with the whole Boiler Room incident is her soulmate. He supposedly has the same mark as her. He used to be a man named Captain Elliot Spencer back in World War 1. He found the Lament Configuration and got turned into a Cenobite," Harry said. "At least that is what I got from Kirsty Cotton and Hailey."

"Have you ever seen this guy? Seen the mark?" Tim asked.

"No," Harry said.

"Then you made the right call. How do you know if this guy is her soulmate or not? She's going down a dark path pursuing him. It'll ruin her life. If she doesn't stop, it could end up being her death. Do you really want her to end up like all these missing people? Dragged to Hell, tortured, and killed? This guy is a demon. He's just trying to lure her to him so he could have her soul," Tim said.

"I know. But she won't listen to me. She's completely convinced," said Harry. "I don't even know where to begin on helping her. I've staked out the apartment. My tattoos haven't told me anything. I don't know where the bastard is at or how to get him without opening the box myself."

"We'll find a way then," Tim said. "You care about Hailey. You still love her. I know you do. So we will do whatever we can to make sure she is safe."

"I hope you're right," said Harry. "This whole thing is stressing me the fuck out. But I can't just stop now. Not while I know Hailey is in danger."

"Then at least take a break. You can't function and help her if you're dead tired on your ass," said Tim. "I'll take over watching her apartment for a few days so you can sleep."

"Thanks partner," Harry said.

:0:

"Well, you're all set. Why don't I give you a tour?" John asked.

"Thank you," Hailey said.

They walked around the building where she would be working at and in the basement where some supplies were kept. Then they met back up in the front of the building in the main lobby.

"These are our security guards, Mark and Michael," John introduced.

"And who's this little cutie?" Mark asked.

"She's new here," Michael said.

"This is Hailey, my new assistant," said John. "She's going to be the one to help me out with a lot of things."

"Nice to meet you both," Hailey said, shaking their hands.

"Mind going out with us?" Mark asked.

"Thanks, but no. I'm not looking to date," Hailey said.

"Dude! You just don't ask that," Michael said, slapping his brother.

"Ouch!" Mark whined.

"Get back to it then. Hailey, why don't I show you your desk?" John asked.

"Sure," Hailey said.

He took her to her desk just outside of his office, reserved for the perfect assistant. A woman and a child was waiting for him outside his office when they approached.

"Bobbi, I wasn't expecting you to be here," said John.

"Jack wanted to see you. He misses you," said Bobbi.

"Oh, right. Pardon my manners. Hailey, this is my wife, Bobbi. And this is our son, Jack," John introduced. "Bobbi, this is my new assistant."

"Pleasure to meet you," Hailey said.

"Same," Bobbi said. "John, are you coming home?"

"Yes. I was just finishing up getting Hailey settled in," said John.

"You can go. I think I got a handle on everything," said Hailey.

"Are you sure?" John asked.

"Of course. Go be with your family. It's one of the most important things in this life," said Hailey.

"Thank you," John said. "I shall see you tomorrow then."

"Sounds good," said Hailey.

She watched as Jack was picked up, hugging his father. The three left, leaving her on her own. She looked at the desk, pulling out her notes and going over them all. She would still need to get keys, but John explained the twins would be able to help her out with accessing things until she got her keys and in the system all the way. Now she just hoped Harry didn't find her working here. The last thing she needed was a commotion. She had a feeling things were turning sour with her and Harry. 

Chapter 20

Notes:

There is dream sex and female domination in this next chapter. Don't like, don't read.

Hailey ran to Pinhead when she saw him. It had been forever since she last saw him in her dreams. Pinhead immediately embraced her, holding her close to him. His fingers brushed through her hair before placing a hand under her and lifting her up so she was eye to eye with him.

Hailey squeaked, wrapping her arms around his neck as she was lifted up and held in one arm. She blushed at the thought of how strong he was.

"Hello, my Dark Angel," he greeted.

"Dark Angel, huh? I can get used to that name," Hailey said.

"It has been much too long," he said.

"I agree there. I'm so glad to see you again," Hailey said.

"I am as well," he said, moving to sit in one of the large chairs next to a desk covered in books and papers.

Hailey's legs settled on either side of his hips comfortably. She growled a bit, licking her lips. Her fingers wandered over his chest, dipping slightly when she passed over the shallow wounds left from the flayed skin hanging down. He hissed at the contact, his eyes growing deeper if it was possible. His hands tightened around her hips, giving enough pressure to squeeze, but not to cause pain or damage.

"You look so damn sexy," she whispered, pushing into the wounds on his chest and feeling the stickiness there.

"Do you wish to explore me?" he whispered back. "To tastes the pleasures of a Cenobite, to know what we crave and desire?"

She nodded.

"Tell it to me," Pinhead said.

"I want to explore you. I want to know everything about you," Hailey said.

Pinhead growled lowly, sending the vibrations through her body and to her core. She felt goosebumps cover her arms from hearing his voice dip deeper. He lifted her off of him, going to his bed against the wall. He sat upon it, motioning for Hailey to come to him.

She approached, feeling a bit nervous. She didn't expect him to be so willing so quickly.

"Do not be afraid. Let go and be who you are. That is the true beauty you hide away," he said.

Hailey took a deep breath before relaxing her body. She closed her eyes, letting out the breath before looking at him again. She settled with one leg between his. She could tell that Cenobites enjoyed pain. They got turned on by it. She could smell it from him when she gave him that small amount of pain to the flayed skin of his chest. So what else could she do? He said for her to be herself. Did he know who she really was that she hid for so long?

Hailey pushed him down so his back laid flat against the soft surface. He watched with dark eyes filled with hunger. He was allowing himself to be at her mercy, something he had never done with anyone. He hardly took pleasure of his own body, much less allow someone else to. Face had given him a few blowjobs when he was way too stressed out from his duties, but those were far and few. Naturally he would submit himself to his God whenever Leviathan so wished it. But this was new. And it excited him.

Hailey pressed her knee to where his cock was at, grinding it slowly. She could feel him getting aroused already. His cock was half way hardened and still growing. She wondered what it would look like. She didn't get to see when he fucked his other half when they were separated. The memory of seeing Elliot getting fucked made her feel wet.

"I hope you know what you're getting yourself into," she said.

"Believe me, I do," he said.

"Then get ready," Hailey said, fully allowing herself to let go.

He nodded, using his magic to make the lower part of his cassock disappear, leaving himself bared to her. Hailey's eyes grew large at the sight. He was much bigger than Elliot was. And a lot thicker. She reached down, stroking his length a few times to get a good feel for it. She wondered how Elliot was able to take such a large appendage so easily. She bent down wrapping her lips around the tip.

Pinhead tilted his head back, feeling her warmth around him. He looked back to her, making sure she didn't hurt herself at all while taking his pride. He groaned at feeling her teeth scrape nicely against his flesh, adding that pain he desired so much. She kept the pressure good, but closed her mouth more so her teeth sunk in without drawing blood. Close, but not quite.

She bobbed her head, feeling him pulse in her mouth. She took him as deep as she could, relaxing her throat so he went further in before backing out again. She continued until she felt his cock twitch on the verge of cumming. She pulled back, wrapping her hand around the base and squeezing tightly. Pinhead hissed, his fingers digging into the bed. He was so close, but he couldn't release with her squeezing him like that.

Hailey kept squeezing, then releasing slightly before squeezing again. Her other hand played with down lower, scraping her nails against him. She bit at his thigh, hard enough to draw blood. She kissed the new wound she made, blood staining her lips. His cock got harder at the sight.

Hailey wiped some of the blood up, putting her fingers in her mouth before popping them out with a wet slurp. She pressed further, pushing into his ass with two fingers. There was resistance, but she continued, moving so her eyes locked onto his. She kept his gaze before she started to pump her fingers, loosing him up and adding a third. She released some of the pressure on his cock, giving him a bit of relief as she continued to edge him, denying his orgasm.

"H-Hailey," he whispered, feeling the pain and pleasure rushing through him. It was like a drug, an aphrodisiac that he became addicted to.

"Has anyone done this to you before?" Hailey asked.

"No," he said.

"Lucky me. I'm the first," she grinned, moving her fingers in harder and faster, brushing up against his hot spot deep within.

She pulled out and moved back, leaving his cock twitching and ass gaping slightly. She licked her fingers clean before looking around the room. She grabbed one of his knives, turning it over in the light. Then she moved back over, pressing the tip into his chest and slicing down, leaving beads of blood in its wake. She did the same to his stomach and down to his thighs and lightly over his cock.

"Do you want it?" Hailey asked.

"Yes," he said.

Hailey took the knife and grabbed the blade carefully. She then moved the handle to his ass, pushing it in as deep as she could. It was thicker than her fingers, stretching him open more. She moved the knife back and forth, making sure she didn't cut herself on the blade. She lightly slapped his cock a few times when it twitched, preventing him from cumming. She wasn't ready for him to yet. But she was feeling close herself just from the sight and the scent. She got herself undressed, leaving the knife buried in his ass. She then straddled him again, sinking herself down on his cock.

Pinhead grabbed her hips, thrusting up into her. Hailey moaned and panted, moving herself up and down rapidly. She was so close. He was too. She could feel it.

"Cum for me," she whispered, bending down.

He snarled as he finally released his seed deep into her womb. Hailey shook with her own powerful orgasm, her pussy clenching down painfully onto him. She kept riding him to a second orgasm, then a third, never letting go of his cock. When she was finally spent, she slumped down on him, feeling his hot seed start to drip out of her around his cock. She pulled herself off of him, pulling the knife out and tossing it to the side.

"You truly have a gift, my Dark Angel," Pinhead said. "I am honored you allowed me to see your true beauty underneath."

"You're the one that released it," Hailey said. "I was always too afraid to be myself. People hate it."

"Never be afraid to be who you are," Pinhead said.

"Thank you," Hailey said.

"Unfortunately it is close," said Pinhead. "I will be summoned to Earth soon. I hope to find you when I am there after my task is finished."

"I hope you find me too," Hailey said. "I'm sure you will. We have a funny way of running into each other."

"Indeed we do," he said. He pressed a kiss to her. "Sleep now."

Hailey curled up next to him, feeling the cool skin against her heated one. It felt so nice that she couldn't resisit anymore. She fell asleep, returning to the world of day.

:weeks later:

Pinhead walked through the gateway back onto Earth. He looked around with his eyes, bending down to pick up the box. He turned it over in his hands, recognizing it as the one he had given Hailey when he first met her, the original Lament Configuration. But where was she? It was that man that opened the box before being devoured by his pet, not Hailey.

A woman approached out of the shadows, cautious and almost minx like in her movements. Pinhead remembered what his God had wanted him to do. This must be the Princess of the Labyrinth, Angelique. His eyes scanned her body, taking in every feature she held in her human skin. But her eyes held curiosity and possibly disgust and something else. Perhaps because she is demon-born, she must be different and not a Cenobite. That will change soon though. Her body would be transformed into its true form with no more hiding.

He had gained images and other information about Angelique from Leviathan. She was nothing like he expected her to be, yet at the same time was. Sadly, as much as he wished to go out and find Hailey, he had his duty to perform of bringing her home. Unless he could find a way to stay there on Earth and find his beloved. He could sense her nearby, so he must be in the same location as where he was before being sent to Hell by Joey.

'Hold on, Hailey,' he thought.

His eyes locked onto the Princess when she stopped in front of him. He didn't like the look she was giving him however. It was like those stories of falling in love at first sight. It sickened him. But he would play along for a bit for his own amusement until he could find a way to get to Hailey. The dreams worked only for so long.

"Angelique," he greeted.

He watched as she circled around him, taking in all of his features with the full gaze of judgement. She stopped in front of him, giving him a critical look.

"Things seem to have changed," she remarked.

"Hell is more ordered since your time, Princess," Pinhead answered, remembering how it was like from what his God had showed him. "And much less amusing."

"So I can see," she said. "You are much different."

"We are a race of demons your father, Leviathan has created," said Pinhead. "We are known as Cenobites."

"Cenobites," she repeated, letting the word run off her lips. "Interesting and so chaotic."

"I have been ordered to take you back home," he said.

"No!" she snapped. "I still have work here to be done."

"Oh?" he asked. 'Perhaps this is my chance after all.'

"Come. I will show you," she said, walking away.

Pinhead followed the Princess to another area in the building. He glanced at the large structure around him in amazement.

"The box did this?" he asked.

"A man did this," Angelique said. "But the box called him. It called to his blood. His ancestor made the box and would have unmade all of us."

"You've been away too long, Princess," Pinhead said, keeping his eyes on the moving parts resembling the box. He looked all around him, ideas running through his mind. Leviathan would be most pleased. "This is not a room. This is a holocaust waiting to wake itself."

"Soon, our kind will roam the earth more freely," Angelique said. "It must be completed first. A task which will take time. I will see to it with the toy maker. You must remain here until I can get him to complete it through my own methods."

:0:

Hailey typed away at the computer she was at, filing up reports and material request forms for her boss. She looked up when a woman approached. She remembered seeing this woman at the conference when John got his award. But something felt off about her. The hair on her arms and back of her neck stood up.

"Hello. How may I help you?" Hailey asked.

"I am here to speak with John Merchant," she said.

"I'll go let him know," Hailey said. "Please wait here."

Hailey got up, turning her back to the woman and heading for the work area where John was at. He was bent over a computer, making small adjustments to a design to another worker.

"John, a woman is here to see you," Hailey said.

"Okay," John said, straightening up. Hailey turned around to see the woman had followed her.

She took a quick glance between the two before heading back to her desk. Something was off with that woman. Everything had been feeling different since she got into work this morning. Almost like there was a familiar presence, but she couldn't pinpoint where.

It didn't take long before the woman was walking past her again. There was something that wasn't right. Her shift ended without much else going on besides paperwork being filed away. She was just finishing signing things when John was heading out.

"Hey John," Hailey said. "Wait up."

"Yes?" John asked.

"Who was that?" Hailey asked.

"Oh, just a client. Possibly. I'm not quite sure yet," said John.

"Okay," Hailey said. She grabbed his arm and pulled him in closer. "Be careful of her, John. Something doesn't feel right with her. I can't explain it, but please use caution. You have a family to think about."

"I will," said John. "Thank you."

"Let me know if you need anything at all," said Hailey.

John nodded before heading out. Hailey put away the papers, locking up the filing cabinet and then heading out herself. She nodded to the twin security guards, saying goodnight to them. She stopped near the entrance of the stairwell to the basement, getting that feeling again. She shook it off, walking out the doors. She walked home, basking in the cool night.

But she couldn't shake the feeling that something was up in the building. She decided she would stay even later the next night and try to figure it out. Maybe she would talk with the twins and see if they saw anything unusual.

Chapter 21

Pinhead watched as night grew, leaving blue light in the basement. He had found trapped dove inside, summoning it to him. The dove perched in his hand, sitting so still as it cooed. Pinhead stroked the bird's feathers. It had already been a few days, and Angelique has yet to accomplish anything. He already didn't like her the moment he met her. And that dislike grew even more with the slowness of her task. He prevented him from seeking out his beloved Hailey. He knew she had been in this building.

"I grow impatient with the Princess," he said into the empty air, talking with the dove and his pet, Chatter Beast. "Human acquiescence is as easily obtained by terror as by temptation. Her tardiness is preventing my finding of Hailey."

Pinhead jerked his hand up, letting the dove fly away. He watched with his eyes before it was devoured by Chatter Beast. The creature munched on the food, bones crunching and flesh squishing. Pinhead gave a sinister laugh, alerting two potential prey up above that he could sense.

"Still hungry?" he asked his pet. "Ready for something that screams?"

Chatter Beast growled in reply, excitement through his voice. He would tempt these men, these brothers. He knew they both had a crush on Hailey. But they never worked up the courage to ask her out except for the one the first time they met. There would be Hell to pay if they thought they could get his sweet Hailey. She belonged to him and him alone.

He saw Angelique return from wherever she had left from. He watched as she stared at herself in the mirror, his own reflection appearing in the multitude of mirrors in front of her. She quickly turned around to stare at him.

"A pity the mirror will not show your true beauty, Princess," Pinhead said. He started to approach her, so tempted to change her into one of him, to bring her back to his God and please Leviathan. "Your human admirer may not sense it, but I can smell the exquisite stench of what you really are!"

Hooks appeared from his fingertips, blood trickling down them. He would have to trick Angelique into coming back, to change into what she was before, or something different, like his kind. He was starting to really get annoyed by the Princess and how long this was taking. Angelique didn't want to go back to Hell. She had tasted her freedom since being summoned, and she refused to be put back under control.

"If you think I will allow you to take me back, you are mistaken," she growled.

"You will," Pinhead said, his gaze darkening. "I can sense your rebellion. Your father will not be pleased."

"I don't care," Angelique said. "My place is here. It isn't like you're here for another reason."

"My only reasoning is to bring you home," Pinhead said.

Angelique stared at him with disbelief. She wasn't buying that at all. She didn't know why else he was sticking around, but she would find out. One way or another she would. And when she did, she would use that as a means to get him to obey her. He stepped even closer, brandishing his hooks in a threatening manner towards her.

"You look like death, Princess," he said, getting her to look once more in the mirror and drop her guard around him. He placed his hand on her shoulder, ready to tear into her flesh. He didn't like what she was thinking. He knew she was trying to find a way to get to him. "Temptation is illusion. But the time for trickery is past. In this game, we show ourselves as we really are."

"What's that?" she asked.

"The beauty of suffering," the Hell Priest said. Angelique faced him again, the anger burning in her eyes not fazing him one bit.

"You are no different from that beast that sucks the bones you throw to it," she growled.

"And you, Princess. What are you?" he asked, digging a hook into her chest and slicing it downwards. Blood trickled from the wound and down beneath her clothing.

"I am nothing like you at all," she said, a hint of lust in her voice.

Her gaze spoke of wanting him. For falling for him. And it made him angry. He was no one's but Hailey's. He would never allow the Princess to claim him as her own. They both looked when the door behind them was kicked open, guns pointed.

"Freeze!" both brothers shouted.

"J-J-Just back it up against the wall!" Michael ordered.

"You heard him. Back it up!" Mark said, both trying to keep the fear from their voices.

Pinhead glared at them. These two. They were the ones admiring what was his. Now would be a perfect time to make them suffer for it.

"Don't make us put some pain on you," Michael said.

"Pain?" the Hell Priest echoed, approaching them. "How dare you use that word."

"He's got p-pins in his head," Mark stuttered in disbelief.

"What you think of as pain is only a shadow. Pain has a face. Allow me to show it to you. Gentlemen, I... am... pain," Pinhead said, the air around them growing colder. He summoned chains to disable the brothers, leaving them immobile. "I know your fear. I hear it. 'Please, don't separate me from my brother.' I give you my word that will never happen."

He turned a bit to side glance Angelique.

"A lesson, Princess," he said. "Work with me, or for me."

She tried to control her anger at those words. But she watched with fascination as the brothers were brought into unimaginable pain, being transformed right before her very eyes into what her father had created. They were Cenobites now. Once the transformation was done, the Hell Priest turned back to her.

"Temptation is worthless, Princess. Suffering is the coin of the realm. I will teach your human Merchant about the value of suffering. I will buy his secret with a bounty of pain," he said. Still, she remained silent. "They say the greatest suffering that a parent can know is the loss of a child."

:0:

"Weird," Hailey said, looking around. The building was completely empty. It wasn't a holiday as far as she could tell. So where was everyone?

She started to walk to the office, but stopped short. She could hear talking, but she couldn't make out words. She pressed herself up against the wall next to the office belonging to her boss. She tried to listen in, but the talking was too quiet. Then John was running out in a panic, shouting for his son and wife.

Hailey didn't have the chance before she was grabbed, being pulled face to face with the mystery woman. She felt her heart pound in her ears.

"You," Hailey said.

"I thought I sensed something from you," Angelique said. "Oh, you will do wonderfully."

Hailey was put into a chokehold as she was brought down into the basement. She tried to get the woman to let go of her throat, but it was no use. No matter how much she kicked and fought, the demon was too strong. Angelique pushed her into the room, pressing her against one of the walls. She pressed a kiss to Hailey, digging claws into her chest, drawing blood.

Hailey didn't scream or show her pain. Instead she bit the woman's lips hard. Angelique growled, backhanding her hard. Hailey's head slammed against the wall and she slid down, slumped against it but still conscious. She tried to get her bearings together, but couldn't. She could feel warm, sticky liquid running down her neck and back. She knew her head had been cut.

"Bitch," she growled.

"So it would seem," Angelique said. "Stay put."

Angelique moved away some distance, waiting for her bait to come for John. She knew the Hell Priest had already left to do the task, something she wasn't pleased about. She wanted to take her time, but this newcomer had decided it wasn't enough.

The elevator dinged. She went to it, pulling out the child and dragging him back. Hailey stood up on shaky legs, trying to reach for Jack. She hit Angelique as hard as she could, but it didn't make Angelique let go of Jack.

Angelique smacked Hailey again, knocking her to the ground. She stepped on her leg hard, getting a loud scream from the woman that echoed around. Blood spurted from her leg as Angelique's heel pushed through her flesh. Hailey grabbed her leg, holding it as her hands became bloodied.

She watched as her boss came in.

"Toy maker," Angelique greeted.

"Come here Jack!" John shouted. Jack tried to run, but Angelique kept him back.

"So young. So tender. So ripe," Angelique said.

"Daddy!" Jack whimpered.

"Get your hands off of him!" John shouted.

"Get your hands on the console, toy maker," Angelique ordered, her voice growing deeper in her true demonic nature. "You have work to do."

"J-John... don't," Hailey coughed.

"I'm sorry," John said, walking to the console of a computer where his work was stored at. He typed away at the keyboard, looking up when the machine started up.

"Open the pathway for me!" Angelique demanded.

A chime rang through the air, a hallway changing with chains hanging. Hailey looked through the pain to see Pinhead walking through. Angelique looked afraid now. She couldn't let the Hell Priest take control.

"The toy maker's design," she said with urgency. "Do it!"

John hit the enter button. Hailey groaned as she got blinded by the sudden lights turning on. She couldn't move out of the way. She was too hurt. Pinhead stopped short of her, trying not to show his worry for her to Angelique. He wouldn't let her use Hailey against him.

Angelique panted in happiness. She would get rid of this demon, sending him back to Hell and closing the gates so she could keep her freedom. The lights went on for a few seconds, having no effect on the Hell Priest. John knew his mistake. He told Jack to run.

"No more games," Pinhead said, sending out a chain. The hooked tip of the chain went through John's neck, opening up on the other side with two blades. Then it pulled through, decapitating him.

Hailey had crawled a safe distance away, over to where Bobbi and Jack were at, shielding the young boy's eyes. Her heart pounded as she saw the Lament Configuration, the one she had thought she lost forever the previous year.

"You go play with your dog, you bastard!" Bobbi shouted, holding out the box.

"Don't!" Hailey shouted, grabbing Bobbi's wrist and the box.

"Move!" Bobbi snarled, pushing Hailey away.

Hailey stumbled and slid, screaming as she landed on her wound. She clenched her teeth tightly and tried to steady her breathing. She opened her eyes, staring up at Pinhead's concerned look. He bent down, touching her wound and getting a hiss from her lips. He touched the blood to his lips, trying to keep up the act.

Angelique watched with interest. She knew something was up. Maybe she could use this new knowledge to her advantage.

"Don't try to move. You'll make yourself bleed faster," he said quietly. "I must not let the Princess know my relationship with you. She will hurt you more."

"Got it," Hailey whispered.

Pinhead stood back up, facing the distraught mother. She pushed a button on the box, the Lament Configuration flying out of her hands. Chains shot out and wrapped themselves around Angelique's legs, knocking her down and pulling her towards it and the lights. Angelique screamed, trying to get away.

The machine on the walls exploded, pulling it into the Configuration. Pinhead howled, trying to fight against the call, but he couldn't. Hailey grabbed the leather of his cassock, tears coming to her eyes. She couldn't keep going through this. But before she knew it, both Angelique and Pinhead were gone once more, and the machine was destroyed completely.

Jack cried into Bobbi's stomach for his father. Hailey looked back to see the corpse of the man who hired her. She looked back at the broken family, getting back to her feet. She picked up her Lament Configuration, holding onto the box close. She hobbled her way to them.

"I'm so sorry, Bobbi," Hailey said.

"Thank you," Bobbi said, wiping away her tears.

"I'll call 911. Why don't you take him outside? He doesn't need to be in here anymore," said Hailey.

"Alright," Bobbi said. "What about that?"

"I'll take care of it. I know how to," said Hailey. Bobbi nodded.

Hailey went to the phone, calling the number. She told them the address and where there was a body before heading outside as well. Jack had fallen asleep in his mother's arms. Hailey sat next to them on the steps, grabbing her leg again and putting pressure on the wound.

"How is he?" Hailey asked.

"In shock," Bobbi said. "God... he... John is dead."

"I'm sorry," said Hailey. "I know this is hard. But... because of this, I need to leave here for good."

"Why?" Bobbi asked.

"Personal reasons," said Hailey. "Just respect that please. I'll stay in contact if I can. But I can't stay here anymore."

"This isn't the first time, is it?" Bobbi asked. "You've seen those things before?"

"Yeah," said Hailey. "I wish you both luck. It will be okay, sooner or later. Just not now."

Hailey got up, groaning painfully. She limped her way to the street, hailing a cab and getting in. She gave the address for her apartment. She needed to leave. Harry would no doubt be on this case as well. She couldn't trust him. He broke her trust when he said she was obsessive. She would disappear forever now, out of lives that she had known.

She didn't know where she would go. Maybe to the west, maybe the north. She wasn't sure. But she didn't want Harry finding her. She was still hurt by him. She clutched the box to her, a single tear rolling down her cheek. She would find a way to him. That she promised.

Chapter 22

Pinhead took the chains off of Angelique once she had been taken to his communing spot above his chambers. She snarled, slashing out at him. He easily caught her wrist, holding it tightly. If she was human, it would have bruised her badly.

"Stop with your childish act," Pinhead said.

"Idiot!" Angelique snarled.

"ANGELIQUE! I command you to cease your attack!"

"Father," she growled, looking up at the God.

"You have been away from home for far too long. Yet, you still refused."

"I liked it up there," Angelique said.

"You will no longer be free to do as you please, you disobedient child! I will show you the true meaning of suffering for your defiance!"

A chamber rose up from the depths below. Pinhead grabbed both of her wrists, dragging her to the chamber. Angelique screamed and fought, anything to get free. She even bit at his hand, but he didn't let go. She was shoved into the chamber, tentacles and chains bounding her inside. She screamed as needles penetrated her back, sucking out any human blood she had been filled with, replacing it with the navy-blue Cenobites were created with. The chambers closed, the screams becoming muffled.

"Well done, my favored son."

"Thank you, my Lord," Pinhead bowed. "Though I regret that the contraption to give us access easier was destroyed."

"A small matter. You brought back my daughter. That was all that was needed from you to do. I shall take care of her from here."

"Of course, my Lord," said Pinhead.

"You are dismissed."

Pinhead bowed his head before walking down the steps and into the Labyrinth below. He was greeted by his Gash and Face, who hugged him the moment he stepped into sight.

"Pinhead!" Face cried. "I'm so glad you are back to your duties. Were you successful?"

"Yes. The Princess was brought back. Leviathan is dealing with her right now," said Pinhead.

"Did you see Hailey?" Face asked, his romantic side coming out.

"I did. However, I was not able to be with her because of the Princess. I only saw her for a short moment," he said. "But I know soon, she will open the box, and I will claim her."

"That's great," said Face. "We should go out and celebrate!"

:0:

"Shit!" Tim shouted, getting out of his car from across the street and pulling out his gun. He had heard on the radio that a 911 call had been made from the Merchant building he was staking out for Hailey.

He jogged over, nearly being hit by a car on the way that honked at him. He ran up the steps, seeing the mother and child. He pulled out his phone, calling his partner.

"Harry, you need to get over here fast!" Tim said.

"On my way."

Tim put his phone away. He kept his gun at his side as he went to them, showing his badge.

"Mam, I am a Detective. What happened here?" he asked.

"You wouldn't believe it," Bobbi said.

"Just tell me what happened. I need to know," Tim said.

"There was these things. They kidnapped me and my son, this man with nails in his head and a black outfit. They brought us here. They wanted John. But they killed him," said Bobbi. "He's in the basement."

"Are you or the boy hurt?" Tim asked.

"No, we're fine. Shaken up, but we aren't hurt," Bobbi said.

"Alright. Paramedics and police should be here soon. I'm going to take a look inside," Tim said. "Stay here."

Tim went inside the building, immediately knowing something was wrong. He looked around, finding a lot of blood around. He gagged before making his way to the basement. He turned to look away when he saw the blood of John Merchant pooling up and drying. His head laid next to his body. He went to the computer, looking at it, but it was completely fried.

He headed back outside just as Harry pulled up. He could tell that his partner's tattoos were screaming by the look Harry had on his face. Tim went to him, near the mother and son.

"Where's Hailey?" Harry asked.

"I didn't see her," said Tim. "I saw her go in, but I didn't see her come back out before I heard the call."

"Shit," Harry muttered, running inside the building.

"Harry, wait!" Tim shouted, following.

Harry looked on each floor that he had learned that Hailey worked at. It didn't take him long to figure out she would work here since she had kept visiting while it was under construction. He did everything he could with his police connections to try to find her without being questioned. His heart raced at all the blood around, but he couldn't find her at all. Not even when he was in the basement. But his tattoos kept screaming at him.

"Harry, she might not even be here anymore," Tim said.

"You think I don't fucking know that?!" Harry snapped. "I have to find her!"

"And we will. The right way. We have backup coming. We'll look for her," said Tim. "Don't give yourself a heart attack."

"You're right," Harry said. "I'm sorry for snapping."

"Forgotten partner. Come on. Let's go back outside and wait for the units," said Tim. "Then we will all look."

Harry nodded, following Tim outside. His stomach was in knots and it made him feel sick. He went to the side, vomiting the contents of his stomach into some bushes. Tim rubbed his back in comfort. Harry raised a hand to let him know that he was okay.

"I want blood samples of every puddle and splatter," said Harry.

"Alright. I'll let them know," said Tim. "Are you sure you're up for this?"

"I'm sure," said Harry. "I want the ones in the basement done first and work our way up."

:0:

Hailey left arrangements in case she ever needed to leave quickly. She grabbed her suitcases, two of them filled with the millions of dollars she still had. She closed out all of her bank accounts the week before, only planning to use cash now. She got to a bus terminal, heading out to live in Chicago. She had already bought an apartment out there last year.

"You're all set, Miss Cotton," the man said, stamping her pass and handing it back.

"Thank you," Hailey said.

She moved to the bus to take it as far as she could, wanting to keep it on the low end so she wasn't detected. Even if she temporarily changed her name to Tiffany Cotton, she knew it wouldn't last forever. She would have to hide for a while like that and go by that name until things calmed down once she left. No one out in Chicago knew who she was. So it was perfect.

She boarded the bus, taking a window seat. She put her suit cases in front of her and also above, keeping her bag in her lap. She felt the outline of the box through the fabric, giving her comfort. It laid right next to the gun she had bought as well for her protection against creeps after the shit with Dean happened. Now she just needed to settle in once more.

She could never get used to this, but it was necessary. She figured Harry would catch on, but he might just not since her blood is at the building. They would do DNA tests to see if she was there. And with the rest, she hoped that Harry would think her dead. It was for the best.

:0:

"Damn, who is she?" Face said, watching a new Cenobite female approaching their group.

"The Princess," Pinhead said, standing up and setting down his chalice. "Angelique. You are finally out of that human skin."

"No thanks to you," she said. "But I am now one of you."

She got up closer, putting a hand on his chest and rubbing along his outfit. Pinhead grabbed her wrist, holding it away and narrowing his eyes at her.

"What do you think you are doing?" he asked.

"It is only proper that the favored son and Princess get together," Angelique said.

"Never," Pinhead said.

"You need to. You have no choice," Angelique said.

"I will never want you," Pinhead said.

"It's that human girl, isn't it?" Angelique asked. "The same one that you tasted from her blood."

"You are playing a very dangerous game," Pinhead growled, his grip tightening on her wrist and nearly breaking it. "Know your place."

"You're pathetic if you think anyone will love you. I gave you the chance. You threw it away," Angelique said, ripping her wrist free.

She walked away from them and off into the Labyrinth. Face whistled, coughing a bit.

"Well, she's a bitch," Face said.

"That she is, Face," said Pinhead. "However, she knows about Hailey now."

"What do we do?" Face asked.

"Let me know if she tries anything," said Pinhead, turning to his gash. "Alert anyone that is loyal to me as well. I will not allow Angelique to take what is rightfully mine."

"We won't let you down," Nikoletta said. "I'll go inform Abigor right now."

Pinhead clenched his hands into fists and ground his teeth together. He was beyond pissed now. First the Princess hurts his beloved, and now she is thinking of hurting her to get to him. He never found the Princess attractive. He never wanted her, but she was drawn to him. He would have to bring this up with Leviathan later when he can. He had planned to have Hailey turned into a Cenobite when she finally opened the box and allowed Hell to claim her soul. Then she would stand at his side for all eternity. She would be with him forever. He will make sure of it.

Chapter 23

Harry felt his stomach drop and his heart stop. He looked at the results. The other blood in the basement was Hailey's. And there was a lot of it. He had yet to get a report from Bobbi about what she had seen. She was too shook up still and with her son after the funeral. Tim said he would take care of her and get her side.

"Hailey," he choked out, tears pricking his eyes. "Please don't be dead. God, forgive me Hailey. Please."

Harry set the paper down on his coffee table, resting his elbows on his knees and pressing his face into his hands. He had already found that her apartment was for sale along with everything in it. He had went to the auction to try to get some of her favorite things. He noticed some things of hers were missing, but that was it. Someone probably already bought them. He had been so stupid and pushed her away. She had no reason to lie to him at all. Especially about something so serious as her soulmate.

He had been looking for her for days since that night. But there was no luck. Then Tim dropped off the DNA results to his apartment. It took him a few hours before he finally built up the courage to look. He was afraid that her blood would be there. They never found her body either, but a lot of body pieces. And there was no reports of anyone matching Hailey's description going to the hospital for any possible injuries.

Until he got Bobbi's story of what happened, he had no way of knowing if Hailey truly was dead.

"I fucked up so much," Harry muttered to himself. "God, I'm so fucking stupid."

Was Tim really right? Of course he was. His partner had never been wrong before. But it was Hailey that was still missing. He needed to find her. To apologize for messing up things with her. But he had no way of knowing where to start. She could be anywhere by now. And he would have no way of knowing. He just hoped to God she wasn't dead. It would end up being filed as a missing person's case that would never be solved.

He grabbed his bottle of beer, chugging it down and tossing the bottle across the room, shattering it. He felt hopeless. He just wanted Hailey back. He did come to find that he did still have feelings for her. They surfaced back up when he saw all the abuse she went through because of Dean. But his job would prevent him from having a good relationship.

"What do I do now?" Harry asked into the silent air, looking for some sort of sign.

:0:

"Chicago," the bus driver said.

"Thank you," Hailey said, tipping the man and getting off.

"Thank you, mademoiselle," the bus driver said, tipping his hat.

Hailey got off and hailed another taxi driver. She gave the address to the new apartment, already having the paperwork and keys with her. She wouldn't need her temporary name out here. Only when traveling here to keep Harry off her back. The apartment was up on the first floor in the back corner. It was a small one-bedroom apartment, nothing like her New York living. She would adjust nicely here.

"Oh, you must be the new neighbor."

Hailey turned around to see an elderly woman smiling at her. She nodded.

"Yes. I'm Hailey Cross," she introduced.

"Mrs. Burns," she said. "That unit has been vacant for so long. It is nice to have someone live there again.

"Why is that?" Hailey asked.

"Some serial killer attacked a group of young college girls having a slumber party. Killed all of them and raped them afterwards," she said. "But don't worry. He is locked up for good."

"No wonder it was so cheap. People don't like that kind of thing," said Hailey. "But I shall call it home."

"Such a brave, young girl," Mrs. Burns said, nodding. "I hope you stay for a long time."

"I do too. We will see what my future brings me," said Hailey.

She unlocked the door, going inside and setting down her stuff. She stashed away her money minus a few hundred so she could go shopping for clothes and food later. She looked around, seeing that it was musty inside as well as already furnished. The furnishing must be from the previous owners, the college girl and her friends. It didn't look like a lot of things were taken aside from obvious spots where personal belongings were at.

"Well, this isn't too bad," said Hailey. "Nothing like New York, but better than England."

She knew she was going to settle in just nicely. But she needed to stay low for a while to make sure that Harry couldn't track her at all. Besides, she was still healing from the attack Angelique did on her. She had done a crappy job of patching herself up, but she was in a rush. So, it made sense.

:0:

"Harry, calm down," Tim said.

"Why?! Hailey is gone and God knows where if she isn't dead!" Harry shouted, throwing his hands up in the air.

"We'll find her. You saw what Mrs. Merchant said. Hailey was with her and her son when they left the building. She said she was injured and had to leave for personal reasons," said Tim.

"And I'm that personal reason," said Harry.

"What makes you think you're the reason she skipped town?" Tim asked.

"Just look at what I did. I betrayed her trust in me," said Harry. "Given it has to do with him, it is safe to say that she knew I would be on the case. I'm the only occult detective aside from you in this city. I deal with things like that."

"We'll still find her. Sooner or later, she is bound to show up," said Tim. "So have some patience."

"Fuck patience. I can't just sit on my ass twiddling my thumbs," said Harry. "She can be dead now for all I know."

"I doubt she would let herself die so easily. She's a fighter," said Tim. "Now calm your tits, man."

Harry sat down on his couch, leaning back and groaning. He was way too fucking stressed out and old for this shit. He just wanted to make things right, but Lady Luck was not in his favor right now. He had other things to worry about too. Like catching the bastard that keeps doing this and leaving a mess behind for him to clean up. But he was too worried about Hailey to care.

:0:

Hailey looked at the broken window, sighing in frustration. Somebody broke into her apartment and tried to ransack the place. But nothing was taken. Yet there was signs someone was here. She looked around, jumping when she saw a man sitting on her bed. She breathed a sigh of relief, her hand on her chest.

"God, Face, what are you doing here?" Hailey asked. "You scared the shit out of me." 

"Sorry, Hails," Face said. "Someone opened the box, so I came to check it out. Pinhead is stuck with duties right now. The Princess has been trying to cause chaos." 

"Princess?" she asked. 

"Angelique. The reason why Pinhead was here last," said Face. 

"So that's the bitch's name," said Hailey. "What did you do with the person?" 

"Dragged them to Hell. Well, the rest of the Gash did. I decided to stick around for a while. Make sure the box gets returned to you," said Face, handing it over. He patted next to him. "So, get over here. Tell me how you been." 

"Stressed as Hell," said Hailey. 

"Oh dear. What happened sweetie?" Face asked. 

Hailey sat down and just let everything spill. She explained everything that happened the last time she saw Face. And she teared up when she explained the parts with Harry. 

"I just don't get it," said Hailey. 

"Maybe someone is influencing his words," said Face. 

"What do you mean by that?" Hailey asked. 

"Well, does he have a partner?" Face asked. 

"Yeah. Tim or Tom or whatever his name is," said Hailey. 

"Well, if he told his partner, then maybe this partner is saying things to make him doubt you," said Face. "Just food for thought." 

"Maybe. But I'm still pissed at him. That's why I'm here," said Hailey. 

"Well, it wouldn't surprise me if the box calls anyone else. So, expect some visitors seeking it out," said Face. "Lots of sinners in this place." 

"I will," said Hailey. "Thanks for the talk, Face. It felt good to finally get it all out." 

"Of course, sweetie," said Face. "You can expect me to be around whenever you need a good talk." 

"I will keep that in mind," said Hailey. 

"I have to get back to the Labyrinth. I'll let Pinhead know you are safe and update him on the situation you're in," said Face. "Ciao." 

Face walked to the wall, which split open and allowed him back into Hell. Hailey smiled, waving goodbye as she watched the wall close. She saw the Lament Configuration on her bed, picking it up and holding it. Now she knew what to expect here. Nothing will be short of exciting here.

Chapter 24

...four months later...

It was oddly quiet and cold in her apartment. It was strange. Hailey put her bag down on the table next to the couch. She set her keys down as well before she stripped off her jacket.

"Pinhead? You there? Did someone open the box?" Hailey asked into the apartment. But she got silence. Usually when it was cold like this, he was there. "Pinhead?"

Hailey went to her bedroom, flipping on the light. She saw the window open, letting in the cool Fall air. She went to it, closing the window. But she froze half way. She never left the window open at all. Chills went up her spine then. Hailey grabbed the box off the nightstand table and her handgun. Someone must have broke in. But she wasn't sure if they were still here.

Hailey went back to the front room with her gun at her side. She looked around cautiously, but didn't see anyone. She glanced in the bathroom and the kitchen as well. Hailey turned around, screaming at the sight of a masked man. He knocked the gun from her hand before she had the chance to fire and grabbed her throat. Hailey felt her knees get hit, making her fall flat on the floor of the front room.

A heavy weight went on her body. Strong hands wrapped a wire around her throat, choking her. Hailey struggled against the man, kicking and hitting and trying to get the wire from around her neck. But he was too strong. Her moments started to become weakened. Black started to fade into her vision from the edges. With her last strength, Hailey started to finger the box, opening it with a single hand in a last hope she would be saved.

The last thing she heard was her Cenobite yelling her name, a tear running down her face as her head lolled to the side. The weight lifted off her and the wire loosened. Her world became dark and painless.

:0:

Pinhead felt the summons of the box. He looked to his Gash before they entered the gateway to the mortal realm. He stepped through, his eyes scanning the room in Hailey's apartment. He stopped short, shock running through him. A man sat on top of her, his pants partly down and shoving his cock into her mouth as one hand stayed on her throat and the other fondled behind him, trying to undo her pants.

"Hailey!" Pinhead shouted, quickly moving to her. He grabbed her attacker, putting him in a chokehold as he held him up in the air. He squeezed threateningly with enough strength to bruise. "Who are you?!"

The man didn't answer. Pinhead growled, pulling out one of his nails from the back of his head, shoving it into the man's throat, but not to kill him. He threw the man at Chatterer and Butterball to restrain. They could sense this man's desires of wanting to fuck Hailey while she was dead. A necrophiliac murderer. Their grip tightened on him, Chatterer keeping his fingers in the man's mouth to gag him, preventing him from talking and begging.

Nikoletta picked up the box, holding it in her hands. She set it down on the table as she watched Pinhead. The Hell Priest knelt down beside Hailey, hands trembling hard. He gently removed the wire after lifting her head. He saw that it cut into her neck enough to make her bleed some. Fingers brushed her throat gently. He did not feel a heartbeat or feel her breath. Her warmth was quickly fading from her. There was no life left in her.

"H-Hailey," Pinhead muttered, brushing part of her hair from her face. "No... no, please no!"

"Priest," Nikoletta said, gently touching his shoulder.

Pounding echoed through the room from the door. Nikoletta, Chatterer, and Butterball became aware of it, turning their heads to it.

"POLICE! Open up!"

"Priest, we must go," said Nikoletta, grabbing his arm and pulling him up. "Priest, let's go."

They had only mere moments before the door was busted open. They had to go now, even without Hailey's body. The Cenobites went back through to their home, the gateway closing just as the police burst through.

"There's someone down. Get an ambulance here stat!" an officer said, kneeling next to Hailey. "She isn't breathing."

"Start CPR," another said.

The officer nodded and bent down, starting CPR on her. It didn't take long for Hailey to start gasping and coughing.

"We got her back," the officer said.

"Ambulance is here," another said.

"Then let's get her to the hospital now," said the officer. "Help me get her down."

"B-box," Hailey said.

"We've got it," said a paramedic that came up.

An officer grabbed the box on the table, bringing it with as he left with her to the hospital. The other officers remained there to start their investigation to find who did this. They were quick to respond when they received a phone call from a neighbor about a loud pounding happening.

:0:

"Why did you take me away?!" Pinhead demanded of Nikoletta.

"The human police was going to break in at any moment," said Nikoletta. "Leviathan would not be pleased if we were found out."

"I do not care! Hailey was still there," Pinhead growled.

"Hailey is gone," said Nikoletta. "She was killed."

"I don't believe that," said Pinhead.

"Yes, you do," said Nikoletta. "You saw her for yourself. There was no soul left, no life. But we have her murderer. I'm sorry Priest. Hailey is gone."

Pinhead knew she was right. He felt anger burst within him. He turned back to Chatterer and Butterball, seeing the trembling man in their grasp. He grabbed the man's face, ripping off his mask. He tossed it to the side with disgust.

"You took her away from me," Pinhead said. "She belonged to me!"

"I... I d-didn't know!" the man said. "Please don't kill me! I'm sorry!"

"Oh, you will be sorry," said Pinhead. "Take him away and give him a pain like no other."

Chatterer and Butterball dragged the man away kicking and screaming. Pinhead wavered before he collapsed when the man was gone from his sights. Nikoletta barely caught him before he fully fell. She knelt by his side, holding him as he gripped her arms. He started to cry, something he never thought possible. His heart felt like it was being torn apart. He didn't even cry when Kirsty was killed, though he did try to. He believed himself to be unable to physically cry any longer.

"Hailey..." Pinhead whispered. "...please... I can't lose her..."

"I'm so sorry Priest," Nikoletta said, a great sadness and sympathy in her voice for her leader.

"Please... take me to my chambers," Pinhead said.

Nikoletta nodded, bringing him to his feet and supporting him. She brought him to his chambers above where everyone resided, pushing open the door. Pinhead pushed her away, stumbling onto his satin sheeted bed.

"Leave me," Pinhead said. "Please."

"As you wish Priest," Nikoletta said, bowing her head and taking her leave.

She remained outside the door for a while, her head pushed against the cool metal. She worried for her leader, as will the others when they found out. After what happened with Kirsty, he wasn't the same until he met Hailey. And now she was taken as well. He lost his soulmate, the one that was bound by soul. Having a soulmate was a very powerful and sacred thing. To lose one was most unbearable.

Nikoletta went to where she knew Chatterer and Butterball would be. She would make sure this man paid dearly. For her leader's sake. His suffering would be like no other in Hell, famous all around and serving as a warning to anyone who tried to take away something so precious.

...At hospital...

Hailey didn't remember how she got here. The last she did remember was gasping for breath and being carried before she passed out again. But when she woke up, she found herself in a hospital bed.

"You're awake," a nurse said.

"Where am I?" Hailey asked.

"The hospital. You were attacked and nearly died," the nurse said. "I'll go get the doctor and the police. They want to ask you some questions."

"Alright," Hailey said.

It was a few minutes later that Hailey heard the knock. A doctor came in with two investigators. She saw that a police officer stood outside her door before it was closed. The doctor checked over her vitals as the investigators sat down.

"Hello Miss Cross. I am Dr. Keller," the man said.

"I am Detective Smith, and this is my partner Detective Roger," the other man said, motioning to the one next to him.

"How are you feeling?" Dr. Keller asked.

"My neck hurts some, but other than that I feel fine," said Hailey.

"Well, the cuts were shallow on your neck from the wire. You're lucky to be alive right now," said Dr. Keller.

"I'm sure I am," said Hailey.

"What can you tell us of what happened the day you were attacked?" Smith asked.

"I had gotten home from going on a jog. I noticed it was cold in my apartment. I left to my bedroom, and saw the window was open. About halfway closed, I realized I never left the window open," said Hailey. "I grabbed my box and my handgun in case there was a burglar. I looked in the bathroom, kitchen, and front room, but didn't see anyone. When I turned around, there was a masked man standing there. He grabbed me and started to choke me on the floor. Then dark. I later woke up for a brief moment that I can remember, but I don't know what happened."

"Is this the box you are talking about?" Roger asked, pointing to the nightstand.

Hailey looked over to see the Lament Configuration there. She silently breathed a sigh of relief that it was there.

"Yes," said Hailey.

"Why did you grab the box?" Roger asked.

"It is from someone very special to me. I didn't want to risk it being stolen in case the burglar was still there," said Hailey, reaching over and grabbing the box. She looked down at it with a smile.

"Well, when police arrived, we didn't see your attacker. They managed to revive you through CPR," said Smith. "It is possible he is still on the loose. What did the mask look like?"

"It was a solid black full-faced mask," said Hailey. "He wore all black as well, but his hands were white, and he had black hair. He also smelt of an expensive cologne or sorts and alcohol."

"Alright. Thank you for your time," said Smith.

"You're welcome," said Hailey.

"I'll just go over some paperwork and then I can send you home," said Dr. Keller. "It looks like you are in good shape. But I want you to rest when you get home, okay? Do you have someone to come pick you up?"

"No, but I will take the bus," said Hailey. "I'll make sure I rest as well."

"Good," said Dr. Keller.

"Thank you," said Hailey.

"I'll go get that paperwork started," said Dr. Keller, taking his leave.

Hailey nodded before she was left alone. She looked back down at the box, tracing an edge of it. She remembered hearing Pinhead call out her name before she didn't feel anything, and her world went dark. Did he take care of her attacker? Or couldn't he because the attacker didn't open the box? She knew what happened with Kirsty and how much it pained Pinhead. Maybe he thought she was dead as well.

Looking at the calendar, she saw it had been five days already. She was even more anxious to get home now, to open the box and find him, to let him know she was okay and alive. God, she could just imagine the pain he would be in if he thought she was dead. As much as he enjoyed pain, this was a pain he couldn't handle. It felt like hours before a nurse finally came in, taking out the IV and giving her some paperwork. Hailey quickly got dressed the moment she was allowed to leave and headed out to catch the bus, her box with her the entire time.

Hailey didn't waste another second climbing up the stairs and into her apartment. She closed and locked the door before going to her room, sitting on the bed. She easily opened the box, waiting with bated breath. She saw the blueish light coming through cracks in her wall, one member of the Gash appearing before her. Nikoletta was surprised to see Hailey there at all.

"Hailey," Nikoletta whispered in shock. "How are you alive? We saw your body. There was no life."

"An officer did CPR and brought me back," said Hailey, looking around. "Where's Pinhead? And Chatterer and Butterball."

Nikoletta looked down and away. Hailey felt fear grasp her.

"He believes you to be dead. He has been locked up in his chambers for a long time. Leviathan is not pleased at all," said Nikoletta. "I know he will try to take his life soon. Hailey, you must hurry and save him. Butterball and Chatterer are at his door. He refuses to let any of us in."

"Then take me to him," said Hailey. "Please."

"This way," said Nikoletta, grabbing her arm and pulling her through.

The two ran down the corridors of the Labyrinth as fast as they could. Hailey ignored the other Cenobites around, only concentrating on getting to Pinhead. She ran up the stairs, only to see a door open that Chatterer and Butterball was standing next to with concern and worry radiating off of their bodies.

"Hailey," Butterball said.

"Where is the Hell Priest?" Nikoletta asked.

"Leviathan called for him. He left about 10 minutes ago with Angelique," said Butterball. "She was summoned to bring him."

"Where?" Hailey asked.

Chatterer pointed up, towards the top ledge of the building. Nikoletta's eyes followed up, knowing it was where Pinhead communed with their God. But she had a bad feeling something was wrong.

"Come on," Nikoletta said, grabbing Hailey's hand and running. Chatterer and Butterball followed behind.

"Stop! Don't hurt him anymore please!"

Hailey recognized the voice as someone she's grown close to, Face. She had come to really like Face and knew he was really close with Pinhead.

"Silence!"

The second, more feminine voice sent shivers down Hailey's spine. She pumped her legs to go faster, the top of the building coming into sight. She could see Face kneeling, blood coming from a wound on his chest. Angelique towered over Face as he moved to cover something with his body.

"You dare to defy our God's wishes?" Angelique demanded.

"He has had enough. He doesn't need to be punished anymore, Princess. Can't you see he is already hurting greatly?" Face asked. "He doesn't deserve any punishment."

"Step away or be punished as well," Angelique growled.

"No," Face said, staring at her.

"F-Face... please," Pinhead whispered. "Go... I cannot lose anyone else..."

Face looked down at the battered Priest, blood covering his body and the ground. Various cuts, bruises, and wounds covered the Priest. He shook his head, tears coming to his eyes. Pinhead pushed Face away, standing up on shaky legs. He faced the Princess of Hell, pain shining bright in his eyes.

"Leave Face out of this. It is my punishment and mine alone," Pinhead said, hiding his pain in his voice.

"Your punishment for abandoning your duties over a human is death. Leviathan is greatly displeased," Angelique said, taking her whip out again lashing at him. She was enjoying his great suffering, relishing in making it more painful.

Pinhead grunted as he felt the blade at the end of the whip slash his cheek. He stumbled to the edge of the building, barely able to support himself. Angelique brought out her new favorite toy, a blade made of the purest of silver. She walked to Pinhead, a smirk on her face. Face tried to stop her by grabbing a leg, but she kicked him off.

Pinhead didn't have time to react. The smooth, cold blade slid into his chest, purposefully missing his heart to make his death a slow one. He only gave a soft gasp, staring at the Princess. Her eyes held a deep loathing and jealously that shined brightly. He always knew that Angelique wanted him as her own, but he refused her. He did not love her.

"Pinhead!"

The Hell Priest heard his name from the sweet voice of his angel Hailey. He took a shuddering breath, his eyes glazed over from the pain.

"Hailey," he whispered, a lone tear running down his face.

"NO!" Face watched in horror as Pinhead teetered before he fell off the edge of the building to the platform below. He ran to the stairs leading to the platform to be with his closest friend.

Hailey, Nikoletta, Butterball, and Chatterer stopped in their tracks as they watched Pinhead fall, Angelique standing at the edge and watching. Her face twisted up in a snarl at seeing Hailey alive, however.

Hailey ran to where Pinhead landed, meeting Face there. The other Cenobite held Pinhead's hand, holding onto it tightly like it would keep the Hell Priest alive. Hailey hovered over Pinhead, hands shaking as she placed a hand where the blade was still embedded into his chest. Tears splashed onto his face when Hailey moved to stare at him, her face contorted with grief.

Face didn't leave either. He remained by Pinhead's side, even as the others gathered there. The Gash wasn't sure what to do or say. They were frozen in their spot, speechless. This was the first time their leader had ever been in such a state that they had seen. Pinhead focused his eyes, black pools staring into blue ones. He felt the tears on his face, not just part of his imagination of his soulmate. His throat felt thick as he tried to speak, tongue heavy.

"...H-Hailey..." he whispered, barely heard.

"I'm here. I'm right here," Hailey whispered back, voice cracking a bit.

"...y-you're not... real... you died..." Pinhead gasped, eyes closing.

"No. I'm right here, with you. Open your eyes and see me. I'm alive," Hailey said, grabbing his other hand and putting it on her chest for him to feel her heart.

Pinhead did as she asked. He was surprised to still see her there. He reached up with his trembling hand, cupping her cheek as he stared into her eyes. Hailey rested a hand on top of his, keeping it there on her.

"I'm always here," said Hailey. "You're not going to lose me."

"Hailey... I love you," Pinhead said, finally saying the words he has always wanted to.

"I love you too," said Hailey.

Pinhead gasped at the throbbing pain in his chest, his breathing becoming shallowed and ragged. His eyes closed again, the pain radiating through his body. He could feel his heart starting to slow down. His was becoming weaker by the minute. He fought to stay alive as long as he could. But he wasn't sure if he would survive his wounds from Angelique. It was different from if a human were to inflict such damage.

"Why would Leviathan want his favored son to die?" Nikoletta muttered. "It makes no sense."

"That's because Leviathan doesn't want him dead."

Nikoletta looked up to see her sister coming to them.

"Abi, what do you mean?" Nikoletta asked.

"I mean I just found evidence that our God has been in a deep slumber. Angelique has been acting on her own and pretending to be our God since she came back," said Abigor. "She wants Hell Priest to be taken out since she cannot have him."

"Well, we have to do something about her later. He needs help and now," said Hailey. "Chatterer, Face, help me get him to his room. Butterball, go bring me fire and a metal pole. Nikoletta, I'm going to need you to bring me some cloths and water."

"Abi, come with me," said Nikoletta.

Hailey knew she had to act fast. He may not have been human, but she would try whatever to heal him and prevent him from dying. He was already losing a lot of blood. She was not going to let him die. He is hers and hers alone. Nothing will take him away. Her eyes drifted to above them, but Angelique was nowhere to be found. She must have left.

Hailey followed as Chatterer and Face took him to the room. They carefully laid Pinhead down on the bed and stepped back. Hailey sat on the bed next to him, keeping a hold of one of his hands.

"Just hold on Pinhead," said Hailey. "I'm not going to let you die."

"Hailey," Pinhead whispered, pain lacing his every word.

"Here you go."

Hailey turned around to find Nikoletta and Abigor were back with some cloths. Hailey took them, grabbing one of the blades from his cassock belt. She cut away his leather at the chest, careful of the flayed skin pieces. She removed the leather she cut to access his chest better. She put a cloth around where the blade was, keeping a pressure on it as she pulled it out.

Pinhead groaned, flinching at the pain. His face contorted in pain, eyes shut tightly, and teeth gritted. He gripped the sheets of his bed. Butterball returned with his items, handing them to Hailey.

"Face, Chatterer, hold him down. This is going to hurt him, but he needs to stay still to cauterize the wound, so it doesn't bleed," said Hailey, completely forgetting that he enjoyed pain in his masochistic ways.

"Of course," said Face, Chatterer agreeing with a few teeth clicks.

They both got on either side of the Hell Priest. Face held down his shoulders while Chatterer pressed down on his abdomen and legs. Hailey made sure they were ready before she heated up the metal, Butterball holding the flame for her. She removed the cloth from the wound, quickly replacing it with the hot metal. Pinhead screamed and arched but didn't get to move far. Face and Chatterer kept him pinned down the best they could. Hailey muttered an apology to him as she cauterized the wound to prevent any more blood loss.

"There," Hailey muttered. "Thanks guys. I got it from here."

"Good," said Abigor. "We will take our leave."

The other cenobites left besides Face. He stayed a bit longer, not wanting to quite leave yet. Pinhead groaned, shifting uncomfortably. He gripped Hailey's hand, needing to just feel her.

"What's wrong?" Hailey asked.

Pinhead didn't answer. She laid down next to him, trying to make sure she didn't hurt him more. She was really worried about him.

"I'll... I'll leave you two alone," said Face. He briefly touched Pinhead's shoulder, moving down his arm before he left. "Take care of him Hail."

"I will Face," said Hailey.

She snuggled in closer, closing her eyes. She listened to his heavy breathing, worry overtaking her. She knew he was in pain. His breathing was still heavy, but he didn't speak. She rested an arm over his stomach. She looked up at him, seeing the winces.

"Hailey," Pinhead whispered.

"Yeah?" Hailey asked.

"Please," he said, eyes locking onto hers.

"Please what?" Hailey asked, completely confused by his request of what he was trying to ask.

He just took her hand, bring it down lower. She felt immediately what was getting to him now. She looked down to see his erection showing through his cassock. Her face got warm quickly. It must have happened when she was taking care of his wounds and the pain brought on from her must have aroused him. She knew what he wanted.

"Alright," Hailey said, giving him a soft smile. "But let me know if it becomes too much. You still need rest to recover from that bitch."

She moved so the heel of her hand pressed against his cock. She moved up and down, making sure to keep the pressure as she took care of him. It didn't take him long to find release. Hailey licked up his cum off her hand before cleaning up and making sure he went to sleep. Pinhead closed his eyes, falling into a deep slumber to recover. Hailey moved back into her previous position, falling into sleep with him. 

Chapter 25

"Holy shit!" Tim shouted.

"What?" Harry asked.

"Listen," Tim said, turning up the television in their office.

"Police are now on the search for Jacob White, a known serial killer that was arrested previous years for murdering a group of college women before raping them. It is suspected that he is linked into other missing cases. John White had escaped from prison two weeks ago. However, five days ago, a young woman was attacked and strangled in the same apartment unit that the college women were murdered in just five years previous. Police have not released the name of the woman that was attacked. But she was only a resident for a few months before this tragedy was struck. Investigators believe that John has escaped somewhere to the east heading for New York, possibly to escape the country."

"That's about the same time Hailey was gone," said Harry. "Where is this at?"

"Chicago," Tim said.

"Then I'm going to fucking Chicago," Harry said. "You coming?"

"You bet," Tim said. "Let's go."

Harry headed out to his car, getting into the driver's seat. Tim got in the passenger side, both buckling up and starting their journey to Chicago. Harry would drive nonstop there except to fill up for gas and use the restroom. He had to know if this was Hailey. After so long of looking and hitting dead ends, it was like someone had given him a sign. He just hoped that it was Hailey.

:0:

Face bounced his knee up and down rapidly from his spot at the empty stage. He had a small frown hiding under his hand. Abigor was with him as well, staring critically at him.

"What is it, Face?" she asked.

"What?" he asked, snapping out of his trance.

"You're nervous about something. What is it?" she asked.

"Oh, nothing," Face said.

"It isn't just nothing," Abigor said.

"Well, you caught me," Face said.

"I know you have a crush on the Hell Priest," Abigor said.

"Is it that obvious?" Face asked.

"Yeah it is," Abigor said.

"Damn. He wouldn't want me anyways. Sure, I've helped him out sexually a few times. But he wouldn't want me like that. He has his soulmate," said Face, looking down between his feet. "I can live with that. I just want him happy and alive. There would be no life without him. I didn't have a purpose before he saved me. Not even Leviathan wanted me. I'm loyal to Pinhead, not Leviathan."

"You care so much about him," Abigor said. "And he cares about you, Face. Don't forget that. He would tear this world and any other world if you were killed."

"Thanks," Face said. "I'm going to go check up on him."

"That's a great idea," said Abigor.

Face got up, heading to the large center building. He had to always make sure he was okay and safe. And now with Hailey. Even if he couldn't be apart of it, he would ensure they were both safe. By any means necessary.

:0:

"This is the area," Tim said. "The police station should be nearby."

"Alright," Harry said.

It didn't take long to find the police station. He and his partner walked in, being greeted as they did. Harry and Tim showed their badges.

"How can we help you today, sir?" the officer asked.

"We're here about a recent attack of a young woman. We believe she is connected in with some of our cases in New York City. Who are the investigators on the case?" Harry asked.

"That would be Detective Smith and his partner Detective Roger. I can take you to them," the officer said.

"Please," said Harry.

The officer nodded, giving them visitor passes before leading them back. They stopped in front of two detectives.

"Thank you," said Harry, dismissing the officer.

"I wasn't aware we were getting visitors," Smith said.

"I'm Occult detective Harry D'Amour. This is my partner Tim Waters," said Harry. "We are following a possible lead. We're looking for a young woman in her 20s. She went missing about four months ago, give or take from New York City. When I heard of a young woman being attacked here, figured we give it a shot."

"Okay," Smith said.

"She was released from the hospital yesterday," Roger said.

"Do you know her name?" Tim asked.

"Yeah, let me get that," Roger said, reaching into his desk and pulling out a notepad. "Her name is Hailey Cross. Recently moved into a cheap apartment that was on the market because of some murders."

"What's her address?" Harry asked urgently.

"Hold your horses," Smith said. "The attack is our case."

"And she is linked in with ours," said Harry. "I need to talk to her."

"Then we'll go with," said Smith.

"Fine, whatever. Just fucking show us," said Harry.

Smith and Roger looked at each other before nodding. They got up, heading to their car while Harry got in his, Tim following closely behind them. They got to the apartment, and immediately Harry felt his tattoos screaming. He hissed at the pain, rubbing at his arms and chest.

"My tats are screaming," Harry said. "Something is wrong."

"In the supernatural sense?" Tim asked.

"Yeah," said Harry, getting out.

"This way," Smith said.

They went into the apartment complex and down to the last unit in the corner. Smith knocked on the door, waiting for an answer. The closer that Harry got, the more his tattoos burned. There was no answer. Smith knocked again, calling out Hailey's name.

"She should be home," Mrs. Burns said. "She hasn't left since she came back."

"Have you seen her at all today?" Smith asked.

"No. But she was in a hurry to get back. She ran inside like the devil was on her heels," said Mrs. Burns before entering her apartment.

"Then I'm breaking it open," Harry said.

"You can't just-" Roger started.

Harry kicked in the door. He drew out his gun, looking around. There wasn't much in there, but he checked every place he could.

"Is he fucking serious?" Roger demanded to Tim.

"Just trust the process," said Tim.

Harry continued to look around. He noticed that the Lament Configuration that Hailey had was gone too. He cursed himself. He should have taken a flight here and possibly stopped her. He had a bad feeling.

"Her box is gone," Harry said.

"Box? A small wooden one with gold?" Roger asked.

"Yeah, that's it," said Harry.

"She had that with her at the hospital. An officer brought it with after reviving her through CPR," said Smith. "I would assume she had taken it with her back here. She said someone special gave it to her."

"Sounds about right," said Harry. "Damnit."

"Harry, do you think she..." Tim trailed off.

"I don't know," said Harry. "Smith, Roger, thanks for the help. We can take it from here."

"Alright," Roger said, taking his leave with Smith.

"Harry," Tim said.

"I think she actually did," said Harry. "She was dragged to Hell. And I'm going to get her back."

"And how do you plan to do that?" Tim asked.

"I don't know yet," said Harry. "But I will find a way. She doesn't belong there."

Chapter 26

Notes:

I do not own Hellraiser. I only own my characters.

Also, apologies for the late update. Had writer's block and health problems have gotten worse. But here is the next chapter. We will be on a roll again.

Face knocked on the door to the Hell Priest's chambers before entering. He didn't find Pinhead inside, but he did see Hailey bent over and puking. He immediately ran to her side, placing a hand on her back.

"Hailey? Are you okay?" Face asked.

"Yeah, just a little nauseous," she said.

"Do you need me to get the Doctor?" Face asked.

"Channard?" Hailey asked.

"No, someone different," said Face.

"Sure," Hailey said. "Pinhead left to do something. Don't know what. So preferably before he gets back."

"Alright," said Face. "Let's get you up. I'll clean this up later."

Face carried Hailey bridal style out to the labyrinth, bringing her to a room close by where the Cenobites resided. He placed her on a bed before moving behind a curtain.

"What is it, Face?" the Doctor asked.

"Pinhead's soulmate. She's sick. Can you look her over?" Face asked.

The two reemerged out of the smaller room. Hailey looked at the Doctor, noticing his lips were pulled back and that his eyes were forced apart to always be open. He went up to her, taking a quick glance over. He placed a hand on her stomach, staying still for a minute before moving down a bit further until his hand rested above her womb.

"Nothing to worry about," the Doctor said, his voice coming through clearly, even though his mouth didn't move.

"What's making her sick then?" Face asked.

"She is with child," the Doctor said.

"Really?" Hailey asked.

"Have you been with anyone?" the Doctor asked.

"Not for a long time. Just the Hell Priest," said Hailey. "Last had sex with him in a dream. But that couldn't cause me to get pregnant, right?"

"It is hard to say. I have no doubt that this child is his," said the Doctor. "It is meant to be if it became possible through a dream."

"Thank you. I'll get her back to his chambers," said Face.

"I'll be by later to check on her," the Doctor said.

Face nodded, taking Hailey back to the building. He walked her inside, being greeted by the Hell Priest. Pinhead went to Hailey immediately, brushing his fingers against her cheek.

"Hailey," Pinhead said. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah," Hailey said. "Just a little pregnant."

"Pregnant?" Pinhead echoed. "Are you certain?"

"The Doctor checked her himself," Face confirmed. "She carries your child."

Pinhead looked down at her small bump that was barely showing. He hadn't noticed at all until now. He didn't think Hailey realized as well with everything that has been going on with her life. It had to have been when he last made love to her in her dream world before he went to get Angelique for his God. A cold hand pressed against the bump, feeling for the signs of life.

"Our child," Pinhead said.

Hailey pressed her hand on top of his.

"Yes," she said.

"We will have to monitor you. I didn't think it possible for you to become pregnant. There is no telling what can happen in these last few months," said Pinhead.

"Now that the stresses have calmed down, I'm sure to get more symptoms than morning sickness," said Hailey.

"I shall be with you every step," Pinhead vowed.

"And you got me as well," said Face, giving her a wide grin.

"Thank you," she said.

:0:

Harry went to his apartment, walking inside and sighing. He jumped when he saw a large man sitting on his couch.

"Shit! Damn Caz, you scared me," Harry said.

"That's a rarity in itself Harold," Caz said. "I got your message."

"Oh good," Harry said, grabbing a couple beers from the fridge and popping one open. He offered one to Caz. "How's Dale doing?"

"He's doing good," said Caz. "The married life is never dull with that queen."

"I can believe it," said Harry.

"So, what did you need me for? It sounded urgent," said Caz.

"Yeah. I need to know if there is any other tats you can give me. Hailey has gone missing. I suspect she is in Hell, and I'm going to get her out," said Harry.

"I've given you everything I have," said Caz.

"Don't bullshit me. I know you haven't," said Harry. "What else is there?"

"Harold, I don't think you sho-"

"Just tell me!" Harry snapped, cutting his friend off. "I'm sorry. I just want to get her back to safety."

"I understand," said Caz. "Stop by my shop tomorrow night. I'll do it."

"Thank you," said Harry.

"Harold, you're digging yourself too deep. You may not get back out," Caz warned. "I don't want to see you get hurt. So just take my advice. Don't go further than you can reach."

"I won't," said Harry. "I'll see you tomorrow night."

"Alright," Caz said, getting up. He put a large hand on Harry's shoulder. "Get some rest. You look like shit."

"Will do," Harry said.

:0:

"It's not too late to change your mind, you know," Caz said, setting up his ink.

"I'm not changing my mind," Harry said.

"Harold, I really think you should reconsider," Caz said.

"No," Harry said.

"Then at least tell me what is going on. The full story," Caz said. "These are going to take a while, so I have time. Sit your ass down. And don't leave out a damn detail."

Harry sighed, stripping his shirt off and laying down on his front to access one of the few places he didn't have tattoos at. He started from the abusive boyfriend Hailey had to what lead to the current events. Caz stopped in the middle of one of the tattoos, shaking his head in disbelief.

"You fucked up big time, Harold," Caz said.

"How?" Harry asked.

"Denying her soulmate. You made her believe that you believed her, then went back on it," Caz said, flicking his friend's head.

"Ow!" Harry cried out. "You didn't have to do it so hard."

"You wouldn't learn otherwise," said Caz. "You need to make things right with Hailey if you want to help her. You keep pushing her away with this. You need to grovel on your feet and beg her for forgiveness."

"Who do you think I am?" Harry asked.

"Do you want her back?" Caz asked.

"Yes," Harry replied.

"Then do what I tell you to," Caz said. "That's the only way."

"Fine," Harry said. "I will."

"Good. Now hold still," Caz said. "I'm not done yet."

Harry settled back down, sighing heavily. He closed his eyes, trying to thing of a way to get to Hailey.

Chapter 27

Notes:

I am so sorry! It took me so long to do this chapter. Everything has been so crazy and it's been a major headache with fighting the medical insurance and the hospital for a new doctor. But I have finally finished this chapter. I am hoping now that everything is somewhat calmer, I can continue to update more. We are coming to a close on the story soon too. I hope you all enjoy. And remember, I do not own Hellraiser at all. I only own my characters.

Harry let out a shaky breath as he walked through the abandoned church. He hoped that Caz's information was right from his resource. Caz warned him to only use it if it was necessary to save his life. Hell was a dangerous place. There were many threats down there. Demons crawled in every corner of Hell. Not much was known about them or their home either. Harry was already pissed off at demons since seeing his old partner killed by one.

He cursed as he slipped on the wet stone, falling down the set of stairs that he was approaching. He slammed into a pillar, wheezing as the air was forced out. He groaned and rolled onto his back, gripping his stomach where he hit the pillar. He coughed hard and spat.

"Fucking hell," Harry muttered, getting up and leaning against the wall. He reached back into his bag, grabbing his flashlight. He clicked it on, looking over the area he fell into.

He looked around, walking forward. He needed to find the crypt. According to what Caz told him, a demon hunter from medieval times was buried here. He traveled all the way to England to look for it. He never thought he would step foot back in England since picking up Hailey from that psychotic building. He was fortunate to never cross paths with Tiffany and Kirsty since he was in the same area. He wanted to keep it that way.

He walked to the large stone coffin in a chamber. He had been walking for about an hour. He breathed heavily, taking out a water bottle and drank from it quickly. He needed to figure out how to crack it open. On the lid of the coffin was a male warrior with long hair. He had a sword engraved into his hands above his armor.

"This is going to be fun," Harry grumbled, reaching back into his bag. He pulled out a small crowbar, realizing it was going to be too small. He looked around and spotted some wood planks. "That will help."

He brought the planks over, leaning them against the coffin. The detective tensed his muscles and shoved the crowbar into the lid. He then pushed down on it with all his strength, pushing down. He managed to lift it about an inch before he grabbed a wood plank and quickly shoved it into that inch lift. He wiped away the sweat that was already gathering on his forehead. He moved the crowbar to lift it another inch and place a second plank in. He continued to do it, working for another hour until he got seven planks in. He fell to the ground, leaning against the cold stone.

He drank the rest of his water, wiping away the sweat. He hoped that this was worth it. Once he rested for ten minutes, he got up and shone his flashlight into the coffin. The strong stench of rotting flesh hit his nostrils, burning the hair. Harry gagged and nearly threw up his water from the smell. He looked inside, seeing a pile of mushed human meat sitting in juices. It was slow to decay with being down in the cold. Not even maggots have made their way into the coffin to feast on the flesh. It was the worst stench he had ever smelt. And he smelt a lot from being on crime scenes.

Within the liquified juices of what remained of the warrior was the sword he was looking for. Trying to keep his stomach from expelling what it held, Harry reached into the coffin. He gagged again as his hand touched the decayed flesh. It squelched as he picked up the sword. It slipped from his fingers and splashed down. Harry wanted so badly to vomit. He reached back down, picking it up again. The wood planks started to crack. He looked over to see the ancient wood splintering. He quickly pulled his arm out with the sword before it gave way. The lid slammed down on the very tip of the sword, snapping it off. Harry fell back onto his ass, the heavy sword swinging above his head. As his hand passed by his face, drops of the decayed body dripped into his mouth.

Harry choked as he vomited from the rancid drops. He turned to his side, spewing it out onto the ground and coughing hard. He took a moment to catch his breath. This had better be all worth it. He needed to leave this place. Harry looked down at the sword. He would need to clean up once he got back to Caz's tattoo shop.

:0:

"Ow! Surgeon."

"Hold still then."

Hailey stuck her tongue out at the doctor. He had zapped her when she kept shifting on the exam table. He zapped her again for good measure. It felt more like a static shock than anything.

"Is Pinhead usually so busy?" Hailey asked.

"He is the Hell Priest. He and his Gash have many duties to perform throughout the Labyrinth," Surgeon said, putting away his tools. "The baby is growing strong and healthy. They will be here soon."

"Really? Why is that?" Hailey asked. "I know time is different down here."

"Demon children tend to grow quickly when a human is impregnated. It is rare for a human to be successful," Surgeon said. "You are fortunate the child did not start growing rapidly inside you. The child would have been born the same day as conception."

"That fast?" Hailey asked with surprise.

"Yes. It would have killed you as well," Surgeon said. "I will report to the Hell Priest of the development of the child."

"Thanks, Surgeon," Hailey said.

"You are welcome," he said. "You are free to leave."

Hailey jumped off the exam table and placed a hand on her extended stomach. She was about five months now in the short span of time she had been down here. She had no idea how much time had actually passed. She had made many friends down here. Pinhead had appointed a Vietnam veteran named Atkins to be her bodyguard when he was not around. Chatterer Beast had also accompanied her.

"All finished?" Atkins asked her, pushing himself off the wall.

"Yeah," Hailey said. "Can we go to the library?"

"Of course," Atkins said. "Do you need Balberith to teach you more of our language?"

"Yeah, if she doesn't mind," Hailey said.

"She will not," Atkins said.

"I'm glad," Hailey said.

The two walked to the library, entering in silence so they did not disturb the librarian. Hailey gathered a few books off the shelf that looked interesting. She nearly screamed when Balberith's face appeared when she pulled a book down. She put a hand on her chest, laughing a bit.

"I'm sorry for scaring you like that," Balberith said.

"It's fine," Hailey said.

"Are you here for more lessons?" she asked.

"Yeah, if you don't mind. Pinhead is doing his duties," Hailey said.

"I will meet you at the table," Balberith said. She spotted Atkins on her way. "You can go do what you need to, Atkins. I got her."

"All right," Atkins said. "I will be back soon to collect her."

Hailey nodded in agreement. She sat down at the table with her books. The old Cenobite came to sit next to her. Hailey flipped open the first book to start her lessons again on reading the Cenobite language.

:0:

Caz looked up as the bell on his door rang. He immediately pinched his nose in disgust. Harry walked in with the sword wrapped in cloth. The giant of a man gagged and vomited in his mouth. Harry glared at him.

"I had to sneak onto a boat to get back," Harry said.

"What is that God awful smell, Harold?" Caz asked.

"That would be the demon hunter," Harry said. "I got the sword. I need to use your shower."

"Please, be my guest," Caz said. "Dale is out tonight. Poor man would faint. Hell, I might faint."

"Please don't," Harry said. "I'll make it go away."

Caz hoped that his husband didn't come home to the rotting smell. He would flip out and think he died. He heard the shower turn on from the other room. For once, he was grateful to have it. He rarely used it now since marrying Dale. Before, when he was single, the large man would sleep in his tattoo shop when he worked late and didn't want to go to his apartment.

Nearly two hours later, Harry walked out smelling of charcoal and pine. The sword was cleaned as well. Caz had locked the tattoo shop up and closed the blinds. Harry set the weapon down onto the counter so they could inspect it better.

"All right, what does your informant say about it?" Harry asked.

"They only said it held the secret to killing demons for good," Caz said. "I honestly didn't think this thing existed."

"Well believe it," Harry said. "It was exactly where you told me it would be."

"Now what do we do?" Caz asked.

"Hell, if I know," Harry said. "I doubt just a sword can kill demons. It looks like any other sword I've seen."

"Maybe there is something to it," Caz said, picking it up to inspect it closer.

Caz looked over every inch of the sword to find something out of place. The groove down the middle of the sword seemed to disappear into the handle. The large man was careful to hold the blade as he twisted the handle. Nothing happened. As he twisted it back and let go, the pommel of the sword popped out and clanked to the ground, startling both men. Harry picked it up, holding it in his hand. They looked to the end of the handle where the pommel fell off.

"I didn't even touch that part," Caz said.

"It came out for a reason," Harry said. "Let me see it."

Harry took the sword back, pointing it down to put the pommel back on. As he tried to line up the pommel, he spotted a piece of paper in the handle. He set the piece down and reached inside with a finger. He pulled the paper up and out of the sword. He set the sword down and unfurled the paper. It was written in Latin with a strange symbol. Harry noticed the pommel had the same symbol carved into it as well.

"What is it?" Caz asked.

"A spell of sorts," Harry said. "I'll need to look into this more. I'm rusty with my Latin."

"Perhaps that is the key," Caz said.

"If this is what kills demons, then so be it," Harry said.

"Remember what I told you, Harold. You are supposed to make peace with Hailey, not drive her away. Especially by attacking her soulmate," Caz said with a sharp tone and narrowed eyes. "You promised me that you would only use it for protection if your life depended on it."

"I will keep it," Harry said. "For now, I'll translate this spell. It might come handy."

Caz glared at his friend.

"If I need it," Harry quickly corrected himself. "I did make a promise to you."

"Then you had better keep it. There is a spare bedroom in the back. Go sleep, Harold," Caz said. "You can translate the paper tomorrow."

Harry nodded, taking the sword and putting the pommel back on. It clicked into place. He took the paper and the sword with him to the spare room. He knew that Caz would be upstairs in his new apartment that sat above his tattoo shop. If he needed anything, he could just go up and ask him or Dale. Harry laid down on the bed, feeling exhausted all the sudden. It has been so long since he felt like this. His thoughts wandered back to Hailey. He would save her and make it up to her. Caz was right. He fucked up big time with her. He needed to fix this if he still wanted Hailey in his life.