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Chapter Text

Lucinda was only four years old, therefore, she was innocent. She knew her father was busy, leaving her in the lighthouse at night while he worked. What he did, she wasn't sure, but he always wore a mask when he went to create. At least, that was what he had told her.

Sometimes he would bring her things, like her newest present, a doll called Bethany. Her daddy loved her, she knew that. He never spoke, but his eyes were gentle and loving, his hugs were warm and kisses on her forehead soft.

She wasn't meant to leave her room for safety reasons, but sometimes she was restless, needing to stretch her legs. She would see her grandma, who was sitting downstairs, never leaving the lighthouse. On this particular night as she wandered down, she heard something, causing her to hide. Two people appeared, a man and a woman that Lucinda didn't recognise. Who were they? Why were they in her home? Neither of them noticed her as they passed, so she snuck into the basement, the place the strangers had emerged from, noticing the window was open. It must have been how they got in, Lucinda reasoned. As she approached it, she heard sniffing, as if someone was crying.

She peered out. There was a man outside at the fence, with glasses on and a sad look on his face. Why was he sad? Lucinda's curiosity got the better of her, causing her to climb out the window and approach the crying man. He didn't see her, looking to the ground as he cried, looking not just sad, but angry.

"Mister, why are you sad?" Lucinda asked, the man's head snapping up and looking at her. He had bright blue eyes and now looked panicked, but that expression changed when he saw her.

"Oh, thank god," He sighed. "I thought...never mind. Can you untie me?" the girl tilted her head.

"You sound funny," She said, hugging her doll closer.

"Oh yeah? So do you," The man whispered, causing the girl to giggle. She liked him already. "Can you untie me please?"

"Is that why you are sad?" Lucinda asked, placing Bethany on the ground.

"Uh...yeah. My...well, people I thought were my friends tied me here. Can you free me please?" The man's eyes were darting up every other second, as if he was afraid something would happen. Lucinda went to where the mans hands were tied to the fence, seeing some sort of lace was holding him there.

"I'll try," She chirped, pulling at it. Nothing happened, but the little girl kept trying, loosening it enough for the man to move his hands. He pulled them away from the fence, sighing as he stood up.

"Thank you," He said. "Now, we have to go, before-" As he turned towards the lighthouse, he froze. A tall figure wearing a mask was now standing in front of him, holding a sharp object in the mans face.

"No...Please..." the man with glasses backed up, pressed against the fence, as the masked man approached, holding the knife (it was his favourite knife) right at the others nose.

"Daddy?" both men looked at Lucinda in unison, the girl stretching her arms up. Immediately, the masked man pulled away from the other man, scooping the girl up and holding her lovingly.

"He's...oh god...he's your daddy?" the other man gulped. Lucinda nodded innocently as her father glared at the funny man.

"Daddy, I freed him. There are people in the lighthouse!" Lucinda said, her father listening to her intendly. "I like him. He's funny. I want him to stay with us." Again, her father looked at the other man with a thoughtful gaze. He still held his knife in his hands, but knew how to hold her without hurting her.

"She doesn't know does she?" the funny man said, causing her father to growl at him. He gently place LUcinda on the ground, pulling something out of his pocket. A needle.

"What are you-?" the other man asked, before her father stuck it in his neck. Immediately, the funny man lost consciousness, falling into her father's arms. Granthem Du'met just flung him over his shoulder like a rag doll, before looking at his daugher, miming the action of sleep to her then put a finger to his lips.

He had fallen asleep as far as she knew and now she had to be quiet. Du'met led his daughter back into the lighthouse, sending her back into her room. Little did she know, her life would change.

**************************************

Du'met loved his daughter. She was only an infant when he spared her, the sole survivor of a family he had slain. He didn't know why he had kept her, but he was glad he did. She was his sunshine, his good side, his innocence. She was the only one to see Hector Munday, the only one who had the right. She brought him happiness outside of murder, something that he never though he could have. Something he never thought he could feel without creating art.

She loved him too. So he would give her whatever she wanted. He got her a cat, although it liked to do its own thing, not good when you are a lonely child. He gave her a doll, she innocently called Bethany (it belonged to his last victim), but it was never alive. She would visit her Grandmother occasionally, but the woman never said anything nice, and she was unable too, even if she was still alive. Now...now he would give her Charlie. She thought he was funny, wanting him to stay.

He wanted to kill the man, but his daughter needed to talk to someone. Du'met didn't talk at all. The only reason Lucinda could talk was because he had let her listen to the voice recordings he had gathered through the years. Now she didn't need to be alone.

Du'met shoved Charlie into the closet and pulled out a realistic dummy he had dressed as Charlie earlier ( why he had ot already made he didn't know, the director had fascinated him for some reason). From a distance, it looked like Lonnit. He tossed it off the cliff, then re-entered the lighthouse to stalk his victims. After killing them...he would find a way to tame Charlie (Du'met snorted. The director was a narcissist, so the taming process would be difficult. Anything for his daughter.)

Unfortunately, the others managed to escape on his speed boat, which made Hector growl as they sped away. Now he had to leave, go to the other murder castle.

Actually, this was perfect. Those four may have escaped for now, but when Charlie was under his control...

Mark and Erin would live with the guilt for the rest of their lives, believing they were the ones responsible for Charlie's death. So for now, they could live. Returning to the lighthouse, he poured a cup of juice for his daughter, adding a little something which would put her to sleep, going into her room where she was playing with her doll. He handed her the plastic cup, the girls eyes lit up when he removed his mask.

"Thank you daddy," she said, placing a hand on his cheek, causing him to smile. She gulped down her juice, before yawning as the sleeping toxin did its thing. She would be asleep for hours, enough time.

He placed her next to the unconscious Charlie, placing his mother in the front of his van. He knew this day would come. It didn't matter, so long as Lucinda was happy.

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She got used to her new home. It had a similar layout to the old murder castle, this time out in the middle of a forest. Lucinda had her own room, as did Charlie. The man was chained up, so he wouldn't escape. Lucinda didn't know he was there yet, Charlie was still not ready yet. Du'met wouldn't give him to her until he was.

He would punch Charlie, kick him, cut his arms and legs, then treat his injuries, yet still the man wouldn't budge. All he had to do was be complicit. So Du'met changed his tactics. He brought photos of Lucinda in, showing them to Charlie, leaving them with him to look at. At first Lonnit refused to look at them, but eventually, something shifted.

"She's a lovely girl," Charlie said one day as Du'met went to check on him. He was sitting on the floor, holding the pictures. "You really love her don't you?" Du'met looked down at the man, nodding once.

"Why...am I here? Why won't you kill me?" Charlie asked. Du'met knelt down, pointing at the picture of his child, then to Charlie.

"You...want me to...be there for her? Why?" Du'met traced a smile on the photo of his daughter.

"To make her happy?" Charlie said, Du'met nodded. Charlie sighed.

"She doesn't know still. I could tell her that you kill people," Charlie said, causing Du'met to grab his neck. Charlie gasped, gripping the older man and locking eyes with him.

"I'm sorry. I won't. I won't hurt her," Charlie gasped, Du'met letting go, then tapping the man on the head. He then pulled a braclet out of his pocket, attaching it to Charlie's wrist, the british man knowing what type of bracelet it was. Du'met undid his chains, keeping his eye on the brit before indicating that Charlie should follow him. He did, unable to do anything else. Lucinda was petting the cat in her room, turning as she saw her father enter with Charlie.

"Hi daddy!" She sang. "Oh, it's you! Why are you here?" She tilted her head, getting that for her dad it would seem. Charlie took a deep breath, kneeling down to be eye level with the girl.

"I'm...here to...well, make you happy," Charlie said gently, as Du'met squeezed his shoulder.

"Make me happy?" Lucinda repeated, confused.

"Your...dad had to work, but he doesn't want you to be lonely. I'm going to look after you while he's busy. I am someone you can talk to, you can play with until he comes in. Is that alright?" Charlie was doing well, so Du'met let go as Lucinda looked up at him.

"What's your name?" She asked.

"Charlie."

"Ok Charlie. Let's play now!" She grabbed the mans hand, pulling him towards her mountain of toys. Du'met smiled, leaving them to it.

***********************

Charlie fit in pretty well. It had been over a year since they moved here. Lucinda was happy, Du'met was finally murdering again. Charlie kept the little girl distracted while the murders happened. Keeping him was a good idea after all.

Then one of the victims tried to escape him. He wouldn't let this happen again, but he couldn't find the young woman anywhere, until Lucinda called out to him.

"Daddy! There is someone in my toy chest!" She and Charlie had been out in the garden, the girl laughing and chasing the englishman around. It would seem his victim had chosen to hide in Lucinda's room and, on her return from the garden, his daughter spotted Du'met's prey as she peeked out. He hated hearing her upset or scared, knowing if he left himself then his prey would escape. Du'met looked at Charlie, letting him decide what to do. Testing him.

"Lucinda, we should go get you some cookies," Charlie said gently. "Your dad will deal with the intruder." With that, Du'met relaxed. Charlie wasn't wearing the bracelet anymore, it had been taken off only a few days ago. He led Lucinda away, the child holding Charlie's hand and skipping as Charlie gave a quick glance to Du'met, one of acceptance and fear.

He didn't kill the teen in Lucinda's room, dragging her to his own before gutting her. It felt good to see the blood spill everywhere as the teenager choked trying to breath. Once she was dead, he left her there, promising to deal with the body later, going to the bathroom where he proceeded to wash himself, change and remove his mask. After taking a moment, he went to find his daughter. As promised by Lonnit, they were in the kitchen, Charlie holding Lucinda up to reach the cookie jar.

"Only one, alright?" Charlie said gently, Lucinda nodded, handing him one before being put on the ground. Du'met...No, Hector smiled, feeling slightly nervous as he was about to reveal his face to Charlie. The englishman turned, locking eyes with Hector, taking a moment to recognise him.

"Hi Daddy!" Lucinda waved as he approached, scooping her up as she munched at her treat. With his free arm, he wrapped it around Lonnit, who flinched a little, surprised at this action.

"Uh...I take it you...managed to...finish your work?" Charlie was nervous, how cute. Hector nodded once, before kissing the man on the head.

"Wow...ok..." Charlie was blushing as Lucinda gasped excitedly. He hugged them both tighter.

"I...didn't realise that you saw me like that," Charlie said, Hector watching him, still holding him tight. "But...If it means I'm doing something right, well...I guess I can work with it." Hector smiled again. It didn't matter what Charlie felt about him, he knew the man cared about Lucinda as much as he did. The kiss was to remind Charlie he was still in control of him, but now he had his trust.

"I love you daddy. I love you too Charlie," Lucinda said, wrapping her arms tightly around her father, then around Charlie's neck. Like Hector, she kissed his forehead.

"I love you Lucinda," Charlie whispered, a tear rolling down his cheek. Hector just smiled, holding the two a little longer.

This was his family now, one he had fought to create. Nobody would take this away from him.

Chapter Text

Erin never got over it, none of them did. But at least Kate and Jamie had a clear conscience. They didn't have blood on their hands. Erin...it was her fault Charlie was gone. At first, she thought he was dead, as when the four of them went to untie him from the fence, he was gone. Then, they saw what they thought was his bloodied corpse at the bottom of the cliff.

The rest of them managed to escape, telling the police every little detail about that night, even what happened to Charlie. They brought up the clues on the killers identity, that they weren't the first ones lured to the island.

Kate didn't forgive Mark, not at first. She wasn't angry, but the way she looked at both him and Erin, it was obvious. She and Charlie fought all the time, now he was dead because of them and Kate missed him. In a weird way, Charlie was like their dad, someone you care about despite how much they annoyed you. He had been nice at the dinner that never came, saying himself he was the patriarch of their little family.

Jamie never blamed Erin or Mark. She was far too forgiving. She missed Charlie too. They all did. It was too quiet without him around.

"I'm an idiot," Erin sobbed one night. "I should have known better. I should have known..."

"Hey. It's alright," Jamie lied, hugging Erin close. Mark was the one to tell Pam Lonnit about Charlie's death, the woman breaking down knowing her son was now dead. Kate promised to call her every week so the woman wasn't alone.

The day came when the four survivors were called to the police station to discuss more details on the murder castle, to be updated on some details themselves.

"Well, we searched the murder castle, finding the files you were talking about. The murderer is most likely Hector Munday, a former FBI Agent." The police officer said, looking at some files or photos. Mark had taken some when trying to escape, handing them over. An FBI agent, a woman called Angela, was also present, standing behind the police officer, looking at the remaining Lonnit entertainment crew with a strong gaze.

"Most likely?" Kate asked, sounding annoyed. She was sitting next to Mark, the first time they had been that close since that day.

"Well, we all thought he died in a fire several years ago. So to find out he is alive is concerning." Angela said. "He must have ran off when you four escaped."

"God, that bastard is still out there?" Jamie took Erin's hand and squeezed it.

"Yes. We won't stop hunting him down," Angela said. "But this isn't the reason you are here, this is about Charlie Lonnit." Erin's heart sunk. Did she have to tell this story again?"

"We...thought he was in on it..." Mark mumbled. "We didn't want him dead."

"You said you saw his body at the bottom of the cliff at the lighthouse didn't you?" Angela asked.

"Yes! Please, we didn't want to...we were scared..." Erin felt salty tears stream down her face, Jamie hugging her to calm her.

"It was fake," The police officer said matter of factly.

"What?" Jamie's voice cracked, everyone waiting with bated breath. Surely they misheard.

"The body you saw? It was a dummy. A mannikin." Erin thought back. They ran out of the lighthouse, Erin right to where they had left Charlie, but he wasn't there. Then Kate called them over to the edge of the cliff, seeing a body at the bottom, tied up and bloodied. It had glasses and the same clothing as Charlie.

It was fake. Erin focused on every detail of the body, far away enough to trick them. It was FAKE! Just like the recording she had heard. Du'met had planted it so she would turn against Charlie, so she would fear him and do something stupid.

"Then...where is the real Charlie?" Kate asked, her voice shaking.

"We don't know. Either Munday wanted to keep him for later or he really was Complicit and escaped alongside him." A sudden rage enveloped Erin, causing her to stand up. She thought about her time working under Charlie.

The man was a narcissist, yes, treating her like a servant and not taking her sound work seriously. Then there was the incident in Topeka that was 110 percent his fault, they spend two days looking for Kate. It was a miracle she didn't quit right there and then.

But Charlie did everything in his power to find her, not saying aloud but feeling horrible about getting his team in such a mess. He was also the only one who gave her a chance, most people looking down on her for several reasons.

When clearing out the office, Erin discovered that he had recommended her to several other networks, writing down what a talented sound tech she was. Why didn't he say that to her?

He was a complicated man, someone who truly valued his team despite never showing it.

"Charlie was innocent. I refuse to continue to believe that he would have wanted to kill us," Erin said. "Charlie...would never want to do that." She remembered the fear in his eyes when they left him tied to that fence, the desperation in his voice as he shouted for them to come back.

"We have to look at all the options," Angela said. The meeting ended soon after that, the four standing outside the police building.

"Do you think Charlie is alive?" Jamie dared to ask, still holding Erin's hand. Kate shook her head, not saying a word.

After that day, Erin tried to move on, but her mind always wandered back to poor Charlie. When September 26th rolled around, it was the hardest because he would have been fifty (or has turned fifty, imprisoned somewhere) a special birthday. Connie tried to comfort her, Erin petting the good boy. October 22nd was even harder.

Mark moved to Brooklyn, living his dream job. Kate found a job hosting a small news channel. Jamie managed to get a lighting job at the same place, meanwhile Erin was moved to another documentary series.

Time moved on, the scars were healing.

Until one day, two years to the day they had faced a serial killer, her phone rang, Agent Angela on the other end.

"Erin, thank you for answering. I need you and the others to meet me at the police station as soon as you can."

"Why? What is it?" Erin felt her heart almost burst from her chest."

"It's Lonnit. We found him."

-------------------------------

Two years was such a short amount of time. Charlie knew his place in this family, he knew the consequences. Du'met gave him only long sleeved shirts because of the bruises Charlie had received when "misbehaving". Most of the bruises had faded now, but he still had a few scars from the early days, when he was more resistant to the idea.

He knew his place. Lucinda was such a sweetheart, the only person Hector Munday could ever care about, which was fine. Charlie didn't need the man to love him, just not hit him or jab him with anything.

Charlie knew when Du'met was angry, trying everything to avoid his wrath. Over time however, Du'met eased up on him, even rewarding his behaviour ( pats on the head, a pack of cigarettes. One time the older man even hugged him. It was brief, but comforting?)

There was days Charlie was wrapped up in his thoughts, thinking of the events that lead him to this new life.

He began to resent his old "family". Mark and Erin had abandoned him, Kate always thought she knew better and Jamie...

It stung knowing that they had left. Hector showed him everything. Apparently they all got new jobs because of their traumatic experience. They had moved on.

Charlie sighed. He was in front of a dummy with Marks face plastered on it. Du'met had brought him here to let out stress, to KILL the demons that haunted him.

"What...do you want me to do?" Charlie had asked, confused. Granthem took out a knife (his favourite according to Lucinda) and viciously stabbed the closest dummy with it. Charlie flinched at the power and energy of the stabbing, despite the reciprocated being fake. He then strided up to Charlie and handed him the knife, staring into his sole.

"You want me to stab the dummy?" Charlie asked stupidly. Du'met nodded.

"Lucinda hasn't tried this I assume," Charlie asked, getting a grunt from the killer.

"Sorry. I'll give it a go, but I will probably be rubbish." Charlie went over to the dummy, cluching the knife tightly. How many people had Du'met killed with it? How many life's were stolen by the blade now in Charlie's hand?

He took a deep breath then stabbed the dummy in a pathetic manner. Du'met tutted, going behind Charlie and taking his arm. It was almost intimate the way they were positioned, almost like two lovers instead of master and prisoner.

Du'met guided Charlie's arm to a certain position, the director feeling more strength going into the next attack.

"Wow...that felt...different," Charlie panted as Du'met stepped away. It felt empowering.

This sort of thing went on for the next few weeks, in between playing with Lucinda while Granthem Du'met worked.

Then came the day Hector Mundy revealed his face to him, when he planted a kiss on his forehead. When Lucinda said she loved him.

Charlie wanted to cry. He knew the kiss wasn't romantic, but he felt a warmth flow through him. He never felt loved since he was a child, his mother staying in England while he moved to America. He should have talked to her more. What would she think of this family?

It was more a family than his previous attempt-

Charlie opened his eyes, noticing that he had stabbed the dummy in the heart. He felt so angry, seeing Mark there for a brief moment. He had wanted too kill him.

Charlie fell back. He couldn't kill, could he? That was Hector's line of work (when did be become alright with this?).

He ran out of the room, to Lucinda's nursery. She was playing with her dolls, Hector on an arm chair, watching her lovingly. He was maskless, his usual appearance when with his daughter (with the mask on he was Granthem Du'met, Charlie had to remember to seperate the killer from the man underneath).

"Hi Charlie!" Lucinda waved, tilting her head. "What's the matter?" Charlie gave a quick glance to Hector, who could read him like a book. He had to be very careful what he said in front of Lucinda.

"Nothing...I...just need a hug," it was all he could manage without lying. Lucinda practically tackled him, almost taking the wind right out of him.

"Easy," Charlie laughed, scooping her up and hugging her properly. Lucinda was growing, but she was still so small, so cute. How long before her innocence would be shattered?

"Daddy, what's so funny?" Lucinda was looking at Hector who was still sitting on the chair, his eyes closed and a huge smile on his face. Charlie barely saw the man emote at all; so it was frightening. Was it something he did?

Hector got up, walking towards them and shrugging to his daughter, indicating to Charlie to put her down. Charlie obeyed before Hector wrapped and arm around him, planting another kiss on his head.

Charlie had done something right. Maybeone day he could get used to this life, after all Lucinda loved him like an uncle, him growing to care for the girl too. He would never want to hurt her.

Unfortunately, something happened. Du'met had brought in a new batch of victims, Charlie doing his job and watching Lucinda, keeping her and himself distracted.

Then one of them broke in. He had left the room for a brief moment to get some air off of the balcony (Hector gave her the best room), hearing Lucinda sceam for him. When he returned he saw Du'met staring at his prey, a man about Charlie's age.

He had Lucinda.

The man somehow figured out that the child was important to Du'met, trying to hold the screaming girl hostage in exchange for his freedom.

Charlie panicked. He picked up a lamp and hit the man on the head. The man fell forward, Lucinda rushed toward Du'met who hugged her. Charles blinked, his vision a blur.

"What..." he said, noticing the body on he ground. Blood was coming from his head. Charlie dropped the lamp.

"Oh god..." his heart was about to escape his chest. He looked up, Lucinda crying her little eyes out and Du'met just staring.

He killed someone. Charlie had blood on his hands.

He bolted to his room, sitting in the corner and tried to breathe. After a while he managed, trying to comprehend what he had done. The door opened, familiar footsteps approached. A hand squeezed his shoulder.

"I didn't mean it," He said, as if he was a child in trouble. " I just...it just happened." He looked up, Hector looked back. He had removed his mask to let Charlie see him.

His face asked, 'how do you feel?'

"Scared....ashamed..." Charlie said. Hector tilted his head.

"Why? Because..." because he killed someone, someone who was acting out of desperation.

No, that answer felt wrong. It should have been why, but he didn't know the man he had killed.

"I killed him in front of Lucinda. I'm afraid she will see me as a monster," Charlie realised. Hector smiled, offering him a hand up. Charlie took it, staring into Hector's eyes. The older man was PROUD of him.

"I wanted to protect her. I didn't want to kill him, but I would do it again. Lucinda is more important." Hector pulled him into a hug. Charlie automatically hugged him back, feeling a warmth he had never before.

He killed someone, and he was rewarded for it.

Hector let go of him, leading him back to Lucinda's room. The body and blood were gone, the little girl hugging her doll Bethany while the cat meowed for attention.

"Daddy? Charlie? What happened?" Lucinda whimpered. Charlie approached her slowly, kneeling down. She was so scared.

"I didn't mean to scare you," Charlie gulped. "Are you okay?"

"That man was scary. After you knocked him out Daddy took him away. Will he come back?" The girl didn't know, or she was in denial.

"No. He won't. Your daddy and I will make sure of that." Charlie promised. " No matter what, you will be safe." He held out his arms, Lucinda cautiously going into them. He hugged her gently, feeling tears sting his eyes.

"I'm so sorry. I never wanted to scare you," He picked her up, her sniffing as she leaned on his shoulder. "I won't do it again, alright?"

"OK..." Lucinda mumbled, making Charlie grin despite himself. Hector wrapped his arms around them, that warmth returning as the cat stretched up on his leg. Wee bugger.

The incident was never forgotten by Charlie or Lucinda. The child was a bit shaken, hugging her toys more, asking a lot of questions. Hector gave him more freedom, so long as he kept up the tasks he was given.

He let him know his his mother was. Health wise she was fine, but she though Charlie was dead. The crew apparently kept in touch with her, putting Charlie in two minds. On the one hand, he was glad she wasn't left abandoned. Despite her spry nature her age was getting too her. He should have called her more.

On the other hand...

" I bet they never told my mum they left me for dead," Charlie spat, getting a look from Hector. "The nerve of it." Hector, silent as always, just patted him on the shoulder.

The killer wanted him to hate them. Whenever he was in his training room, Charlie took his anger out on the dummies with such passion. It felt good, but it scared him

He had killed once, did Hector want him to do it again?

His deaths counter had slowly went up, only four away from 200. only four. FOUR!

Would he go after the others? Would he make Charlie kill Erin or Mark?

He needed air. Going outside, he was aware of something following him.

"Lucinda, you should be in bed," He sighed.

"I know. I had a nightmare," the girl said. She was six now, still so young, so innocent. "I couldn't find Daddy. Where are you going?"

" A walk. Just a wee one."

"Can I come?" Lucinda made those big eyes she always did tocget her way.

"Alright. Hopefully it tuckers you out." Charlie grinned. They didn't go far, staying on the path where Hector placed the trail cameras, no sound other than the crunching of dead leaves at their feet. Lucinda held his hand, jogging slightly ahead. She then went to trip, Charlie able to keep her on her feet.

"Careful," He warned, kneeling down. She stuck out her bottom lip, looking away. She was getting sassy.

"What's that light?" Lucinda asked suddenly, making Charlie look. A red light flashed, then blue. Shit.

A dog bounded up to them, barking. It wore a police vest. Lucinda screamed as Charlie stood up.

"It's okay. Stay behind me," Charlie said, keeping his eyes on the dog. It didn't attack them, just kept barking.

"You, hands up!" A couple of police officers appeared, guns pointing at Charlie. He obeyed, trying not to cry.

"Charlie..." Lucinda whimpered.

"It's alright. They won't hurt you," He told as the male officer grabbed him, pulling his hands behind his back and cuffing him.

"No!" Lucinda screamed, going to kick the officer, but his partner managed to grab her.

" Please...don't hurt her..." Charlie begged as he was pushed away. Lucinda was bawling her eyes out, crying for Charlie.

"Are you Charlie Lonnit?" The male officer asked him. Charlie nodded, perhaps to quickly. "Jesus, how are you still alive?"

"I...got lucky," He was shoved into a police car, desperate to keep his eyes on Lucinda. Du'met would kill him now.

"Please tell me the girl will be safe," Charlie asked as the police officer got in the front. Lucinda was placed in another car as an army of police charged through the forest. Du'met would definitely kill him now.

"She will be. We won't harm her," the police officer said as he started the car. " When we get to the police station, we will be asking you a few questions."

"Yeah, I figured," Charlie sighed as they drove off.

‐--------------‐--‐--------------

He had been listening to a monologue form Manny Sherman, one he had listened to a million times in order to understand it.

"Did I ever tell you about the one I let go?" Manny said, his usual smugness as he puffed on his cigarette. "She was about 20 I think. Her name was Sarah, or Sally. Anyway, at first she was like all the rest, I had my hands around her throat. I don't know why, but the way she looked at me made me feel strange. I tried to go through with it, but my heart wasn't in it. I just threatened her instead, said to her if she every told anyone I would kill her family. She ran like a little mouse. For a while, she did as she was told, because I kept tabs on her. I got addicted to her. I wasn't attracted to her, but I wanted to control her life. She was so scared all the time, as if she knew I was watching." Manny took a long drag of his cigarette.

"I never loved anyone since my parents died. But that girl, I loved in a way I can't explain. It was like I had to own her. Kind of like a pet. Addiction is dangerous Munday. I think she was at my trial, do you remember, the little brunette with the big green eyes? That was her. She said she escaped, that she didn't say anything because I threatened her not too. I felt betrayed but I was more hurt than angry. Why? She was no different than the others," Manny leaned forward, a stupid grin on his face. "I'm sure you will find something like that. Something or someone you want to control. Maybe even love. If you are lucky, maybe you'll get more than one." He leaned back. "Maybe I justified letting her go as a good deed. Maybe I wanted her to see I wasn't completely evil. Or maybe, I was more a monster to her, because she has to constantly look behind her every moment, afraid someone like me will finish her off." Munday grunted thoughtfully.

"Listen Munday. If this ever happens to you, it doesn't mean your losing your touch. It's just a new way of creating art. Don't lose your grip on them. Make them see the world like you do. Let them paint in red."

The monologue finished. Du'met thought he would understand when he adopted Lucinda, the love for his daughter unlike he had ever felt.

Then Charlie appeared. He was so close to killing him, but Lucinda had asked for him to stay. That was when the obsession began.

Keeping the director in chains, he would torture him, but the man refused to comply. He even begged to be killed, but Du'met refused. Seeing Lucinda made Charlie obedient, the man caring for the innocent child as much as Hector Munday did. In ways, he was jealous that the brit was able to talk to her, but he fought back less.

He was complicit, protecting Lucinda from the murders her father was committing. That was when Du'met started his training for Charlie, to test him. To see if he would kill someone. He hadn't thought it would work, but then...

Charlie killed someone, and Hector was proud. It was to protect Lucinda, Du'met calming the girl and removing the body, cleaning up the blood. As Hector, he went to check on Charlie, who was wreck. Because he upset Lucinda, not because he killed someone.

In that moment, he understood what Manny had told him. He was addicted to making Lonnit kill more. He already had a hatred brewing for his former crew, so if he was able to kill at least one of them...

A light flashed, catching Du'met's attention. A trail camera had picked up a threat. Going to one of his many monitors, Granthem found the right feed.

The police had arrived, and were currently arresting Lonnit. They also had Lucinda, the girl crying for him in the arms of a female officer.

Anger took over the killer for a moment, with him pulling out his knife and stabbing the monitor. He had to leave again, only four more...

He calmed suddenly. This could work. He would evade the police officers, and find where they would take Charlie. The rest of the film crew would most likely be called back, so he would have to get them all together. Charlie would kill one of them, or watch as Du'met did. Seeing their blood, he would be sure Lonnit would appreciate that, even if it wasn't right away.

After their deaths, he would take his family back. He would make sure nobody would take them away again.

Chapter Text

Charlie was questioned for what felt like hours, his hands cuffed and on the table. He told them everything that had happened to him, although he asked about Lucinda constantly.

Was she safe? Where was she? Was she alright?

The police officers told him that she was fine, but it wasn't enough.

"He kept me alive for Lucinda really. I was to keep her company. Over time, something changed." Charlie's leg was twitching as he tried to remain calm.

"What changed Mister Lonnit?" The FBI agent, Angela, asked him. She didn't seem to be judging him like the cops anyway.

"I...was...one of the victims broke into Lucinda's room and was hiding and...I took Lucinda somewhere else while Du'met..."

"Du'met killed them?" Angela finished. Charlie nodded. "And Lucinda was unaware that her father was killing this intruder?"

"She never knew. He wanted to keep her innocent. As murderous as he is, he loves her. As much as I do." Charlie sighed. "He showed me his face that night. I got to know Hector Munday, as a father and...not a friend...master maybe?" Charlie took a sip of his water, his hands trembling. "Anyway, I was given slightly more freedom to move about the murder castle when Hector didn't have...guests...so long as I kept up my training."

"Training?"

"Y-Yeah...Hector gave me a knife, showed me how to stab these dummies..."

"Dummies with your friends face on them?" Charlie looked up at the FBI agent. They found those? How did they get around the murder castle in one piece? Charlie was kept to one section most of the time, the home section as Hector had put it, even then he had to watch where he walked the first few times. That was where the three would live almost normally, sometimes just playing a board game or watching a film with Lucinda. Family time.

"Yes...he wanted me to hate them...want to kill them..." Charlie felt horrible. He felt like he was betraying Hector, the man who had given him a proper family, who rewarded him for doing things right.

He's also the guy that tried to burn you alive, has killed 195 people, despite what his counter says.

"I never wanted to kill anyone," Charlie continued. The FBI would find out eventually, plus he would probably spend the rest of his life in prison if Hector didn't murder him first. "One night, a man...had Lucinda. I panicked. I hit him with a lamp...I..."

"You killed someone?" Angela looked shocked.

"I didn't mean too. I wanted to protect Lucinda. She was crying and...Hector was so proud of me..." Charlie felt salty tears in his eyes. "I just...wanted to protect Lucinda."

"I see. The man was Arnold Jones. About your age. His body was the only one with a bashed head. He was probably acting out of desperation you understand," Angela leaned forward. "Thank you for your honesty Mister Lonnit. I assure you, I don't see you as a monster, but it is clear you don't see Hector Munday as one now either. Stockholm syndrome has claimed you I think."

"I'm not in love with him!" Charlie huffed.

"But you care about him. You LOVE him in a sense. Whether he loves you or not I can't say," Angela leaned back. "I met him once. He prefered working alone, never said a word unless absolutely necessary. I never thought he could love, but a child like Lucinda...she can't stay in the dark. As we speak she will be told the truth."

"Yeah.." Charlie was exhausted. "He'll...probably try to get her back." Charlie then panicked. "Are you...going to kill him?"

"Mister Lonnit, he is a serial killer. If he doesn't come quietly, he will be shot on sight. If he does, he will most likely be put on death row. As for you...I think you should talk to your mother and your friends."

"My friends?" Charlie was genuinely confused.

"The former members of your film crew," Angela said, standing up and tucking her notes in her folder. "They are here, along with your mother."

"Oh...my mum is here?" Charlie said almost mindlessly. "All the way from England..." He tried to have a reaction for his former crewmates, but felt nothing. It was probably for the best. "What about-"

"We'll give you half an hour, then we'll let you see Lucinda. She's with your mom." Hearing those words warmed him, even causing him to chuckle.

"Thanks," He mumbled. Angela left, two police officers grabbing his arms. Their hold was firm but gentle as he was escorted back to the jail cell he was being held in for the time being. He was uncuffed and steered in, the police officers locking it and watching as he sat on the bench. After a minute, they left, their faces more sympathetic than before.

"I wonder what Lucinda think of my mum..." Charlie muttered, trying to clear his head.

-----------------------------

Lucinda was inconsolable at first, crying for Charlie or her dad. Kate had no idea what to do with the child, neither did the police as she cried and cried. Eventually, she ran out of energy, just curling up on a couple of seats, not wanting to talk to anyone.

"Argh! Why can't they let us see Charlie?" Kate was ready to pull her hair out. Mark came all the way from Brooklyn, Pam had came all the way from England! Why weren't they allowed to see him? Two years they had worried, whether or not he was alive and being tortured, or he was murdered long ago in some gruesome manner. He was only a few feet away, but they weren't allowed to see him. Erin already used her inhaler twice, hugging Jamie as Mark paced around anxiously.

"Alright love, that's enough of that," Pam went up to the girl, who opened her eyes. "You know Charlie right? I'm his mum, so scooch up, let an old lady sit." The girl did as she was told, looking at Pam with curiosity and wonder. The cop on watch said nothing, just watched curiously.

"Now. What's your name love?" Charlie was like his mother in a lot of ways. Same eyes, same hair colour, same accent. Pam was her own person of course, a lot sweeter than Charlie was. Also the woman never smoked, Charlie getting that disgusting habit from his dad.

"Lucinda," the girl answered, causing Kate to shudder. The other looked up from the floor, all shocked, but nobody saying anything. Du'met had named the child after his abusive mother, who he dug up the corpse of and made into a puppet. Did the girl see that? Did she understand? Kate suddenly felt sick, flashbacks to that night hitting her with full force. Trauma was a bitch.

"That's a lovely name. I'm Pam, or Mrs Lonnit. Whatever you prefer," Pam said gently. She didn't know all the "little" details. Pam then pointed to everyone. "That's Jamie, bit cheeky but nice. That's Erin. That is Mark and that is Kate. They were friends of Charlie. Did he tell you about them?"

"Kind of..." Lucinda looked shy again. "You're the ones who left Charlie tied to the fence." The room went quiet. Kate still hadn't fully forgiven Mark for that. A reason they didn't get back together. He had told Mrs Lonnit in advance, the woman understandable furious, calling him and Erin all sorts, but then...

She just forgave them. She had a long talk with them of course, but she forgave them.

"Yes...well, people make mistakes," Pam sighed. Before anyone else could but in, a police officer came in, this one being a young woman.

"Can we talk with Lucinda?" They were going to tell her the truth. It was bound to come up eventually.

"Can Mrs Lonnit come with me? I'm scared," the girl whispered, grabbing the older woman's arm. The policewoman nodded, Pam standing up, the child still clinging to her arm.

"After this, I want to see Charlie," Pam said as they disappeared through the door.

"That girl won't believe anything they tell her," Jamie said, speaking for the first time.

"I can't believe Du'met actually adopted a child," Erin looked thoughtful. "You forget seiral killers are human at the end of the day."

"Humans who enjoy killing others. Although he kept Charlie alive," Kate sighed, wondering what hell her former boss had went through. "Some of these cops want him to admit he was Complicit."

"We made that mistake once. We aren't doing that again." Mark crossed his arms. "We can't..."

"Alright you four," a cop entered the waiting area, along with agent Angela. "You can go see him now if you want." Kate was the first to take the offer, leading the others who were more reluctant.

Would Charlie be happy to see them? Would he be furious?

Kate could take it. Time to face the music.

‐---------‐-----------------------

Charlie was lost among his thoughts, wondering what would happen next.

Agent Angela was right. In a way, he did love Hector. He had grown to care for the man, looking the other way when he would murder his victims in cold blood.

Was it romantic love or the type of love a dog had for its master?

He was so happy when I killed that bloke. Was it because of Lucinda, or was he just proud of me? Charlie craved positive attention, so when Hector Munday hugged him, rewarded him, he wanted more. He would have done anything to please him. Even...

"Lonnit, you have visitors!" The cop guarding him said, breaking him out of his trance.

"Charlie!" Kate cried, grabbing the bars. Dangerous thing. Charlie looked, seeing his whole crew had come to see him. Why?

"Kate..." Charlie stood up. "How...are you?" He was surprised how calm he was.

"Uh, fine. Its good to see you," her hair was longer, tied in a ponytail. Everyone else looked the same as that night...

"Charlie...we are so sorry," Erin started. "I was an idiot and-"

"Don't," Charlie interrupted. "Hector showed me the tape he used to trick you."

"Hector? As in Hector Munday?" Jamie asked, concern lacing her voice.

"Yes. I spent two years with that man and Lucinda," the way Charlie spoke was as if it was a normal conversation. "I...started to care about him. He treated me better over time. Lucinda was the one to find me tied to the fence, she asked him to spare me. He did, in return I was to look after her. That kid is everything to me." Charlie let out a breath. "In a way I should thank you."

"Have you lost your mind?" Jamie responded. " You...care about Hector Munday? The guy that tried to kill us all?"

"Did he brainwash you?" Mark asked, his confusion almost humorous. Charlie went to answer, but no words came out of his mouth. Did he?

"Charlie..." Erin gasped.

"Where is Lucinda anyway?" Charlie asked, slumping on the bench in his cell, suddenly feeling run down.

"With your mom," Jamie answered. "The cops are telling her what Du'met was, or is." They were still calling him Du'met. Of course, they only saw him with the mask, they had no right to see Hector's face!

"She'll hate me now," Charlie sighed. He looked at the four tiredly. "He'll come for her, to take her home. He loves that girl. You know, he wanted me to hate all of you. He had these dummies with your faces on them I was to stab. I don't know if he wanted me to kill you. To actually be COMPLICIT, or he just wanted me to watch." Charlie sounded so casual.

"Jesus..." Kate gasped.

"I don't think you want to kill us," Mark said, getting a laugh from Charlie. "Charlie, tell us that. Tell us you don't want to kill us."

"Last time I tried, you left me tied to the fence!" Charlie spat, sitting up. He felt that anger again, the anger he felt when he stabbed the dummy. No, not again. "Why would I want to kill you? I don't want to hurt Lucinda anymore. I don't want to hurt anyone..."

"Charlie-"

"You are better off without me. Just...watch your back," Charlie said, turning away. He was afraid he would say or do something that he would regret. What if this was the last time they spoke, Hector killing them before coming for him?

"We'll visit you again Charlie," Kate said, before he heard them leave. Charlie felt horrible again.

He cared about them somewhere, but he loved Hector. He loved Lucinda.

"Hector Munday would never go after them. He might as well give up," The police officer guarding Charlie said. "We'll have those four protected, so he'd be walking into a trap."

"Hector...is smarter than you think. He'll know," Charlie said, looking out the window. All he could do now was wait.

---------------------

A few hours later, he was aloud to see his mother and Lucinda. The child was confused, and angry. She knew, but didn't understand. Pam fussed over Charlie (it was embarrassing) only leaving to get some water. Lucinda stayed frozen, looking at Charlie with her big eyes.

"Charlie...Is daddy a bad man?" It broke his heart to hear the vulnerability in her voice. She was hugging her doll (did she know where it came from?) and had bags under her eyes from all the tears.

"Yes. But not to you. He loves you," Charlie said gently, reaching out and placing a hand on her cheek. The police officer watched, just in case, but didn't interfere.

"Why?" Lucinda asked next.

"Why? Why what?" Charlie didn't want to confuse the girl anymore.

"Why did he kill all those people?"

"Oh...I...don't know love," Charlie felt his breath stagger. What else could he say? Would she be afraid of him now?

"Charlie, I'm scared," Lucinda whimpered. He wanted to hug the poor thing, but the bars prevented him from doing so.

"So am I. I promise though, no matter what, you will be safe," Charlie wanted to fix everything. To have a world where Hector stopped killing, where Lucinda could grow up without fear of her own dad.

Of course, the only reason he was her father was because he murdered her real family. Would they have loved her too?

"Sorry I took so long," Pam entered, a plastic cup in hand
"I couldn't figure how to work the blooming water fountain."

"Mum, it couldn't be that hard surely," Charlie said dryly.

"Don't get smart with me Charles!" The old woman scolded, a small smile on her face.

"Right, sorry mum." Charlie chuckled, Lucinda looking more relaxed.

"Alright, time to go. You'll get more time with him tomorrow," the cop said. Lucinda looked as if she was going to cry again, Charlie taking her hand and giving it a squeeze. "Hey Big girl. I'll still be here tomorrow. You be good for my mum, alright?" Lucinda sniffed, but nodded. Charlie smiled, letting her go. He watched them leave, alone with his thoughts.

"He'll look for her. Please tell me my mum will be safe," Charlie asked the police officer.

"We'll do what we can," was his response. It wasn't good enough.

Would Hector kill his mum? Or spare her?

The crew...he would go for them, but would he try to find Lucinda first?

Charlie lay down, feeling really tired. He lay there for a long time, trapped in these questions, before sleep overtook him.

‐----------------------------

It took longer than he wanted, but he was finally ready. Granthem Du'met was watching from the shadows as Mark and Kate returned from a shopping trip. He had to stay hidden.

His daughter was staying with Jamie and Erin at present; Charlie's mother had returned to England, no longer able to afford staying in the apartmentshe had rented.

Hector would have liked to have met her, a mother that actually cared for her son. Maybe one day he would.

He shook it off. It was for the best she left.

Charlie was still in prison, but tonight that would change.

Tonight, he would finally finish his masterpiece.

-------------------------------

It had been almost a week, Charlie still hadn't been moved yet.

That night, his cell door clicked open, waking him. Charlie didn't budge though, keeping his eyes closed. He heard footsteps approach him, making him nervous, before a hand went over his mouth. He looked up, Du'met above him with a finger on his mouth. He should have been terrified, but part of him felt relief.

"How..?" Charlie sat up, grabbing his glasses. He saw the police officer lying unconscious, but snoring. A needle lying next to him. "You let him live?" Du'met shrugged, indicating for Charlie to follow. The police station was quiet, somehow Du'met had knocked everyone out. He hadn't killed them. They got outside uneventfully, Granthem leading Charlie to a familiar black car (the limo that he had been picked up in when this all started.) The older man got in the front, Charlie following him, sitting in the passenger seat.

"Why'd you come back for me?" Charlie asked in a whisper. Du'met regarded him, removing his mask so Charlie could understand. They were family now, and Hector Munday would do anything for his family.

He remembered Hector giving Charlie a book he had written for Lucinda, about a boy who was raised by a witch. Despite the how the witch treated the boy, he still loved her. When the boy grew up, he found a little angel, promising not to be like the witch. It was well written, making Charlie sympathise with the boy.

It was obviously a cut down version of Hector's life, the angel being Lucinda. The witch being his mother. a mother who beat him, burned him, but who he still loved.

Charlie felt the same way. He loved Hector, despite knowing what he had done to him, what he had done to others. Hector drove, glancing at Charlie, waiting for him to say something.

"Uh...thank you. The police will be after us though. I'm sure you've planned this out. You'll want to find Lucinda," Charlie dared to look at Hector, his face unmoving. "She knows your a murderer. I didn't tell her...she knows Hector." Hector grunted, his face unchanged. "She visited me yesterday actually. She just kept asking why. I couldn't tell her. She knows I killed that guy too you know. I told her that. She was really upset." Charlie huffed, Hector giving him the side eye. "Look, I know it's stupid, but I care about you! I don't know what you did to make me care, but I do! That girl loves you too. She will never stop loving you." At this, Hector smiled faintly, as he pulled into a parking bay of a warehouse. He turned to Charlie, grabbing him in a tight embrace.

"Oy, some would think you've gone soft," Charlie chucked. Hector then kissed his forehead again, before exiting the car. Something was going to happen. Charlie got out after a minute, following Hector (Du'met, he had put the mask on again) as the older man opened the warehouse doors again. It was empty, besides four chairs in the centre, a video camera in the middle. A silver table stood at the side, for Du'met's equipment.

"What...wait...have you..." Charlie stuttered. Du'met shook his head. He hadn't killed them. Yet.

"Hec...Du'met. Are you going to kill my crew...here?" Charlie felt cowardly. Du'met nodded, tying his apron on, pulling a folded piece of paper out of it and handing it to Charlie. He then left, slamming the door behind him, leaving one light on.

Gulping, Charlie unfolded the paper.

Charles,

This is the only way I will be able to speak with you. Over the two years you stayed with us, I saw you become an artist, someone I could share my passions with. Lucinda will learn one day that art is subjective, I hope she will follow in our footsteps.

I offer you a choice Charles. Either watch as I gut your former friends, or help me to do it. Lucinda won't see it, her innocence can be salvaged. If you kill again, you might finally understand why I do it. You will be able to tell her, to share the vision.

The choice is yours Charlie. You are part of my family now. You are an Artist. Let's paint the world red.

Charlie dropped the paper shaking. An artist. He could, after all Mark and Erin did abandon him-

"No! No," Charlie made himself sit down. He didn't want to kill again. He was afraid he would like it. He wasn't supposed to like the idea of ending someone else's life, he knew Lucinda didn't, the look in the girls eyes was one of fear. she doesn't understand.

Charlie fixed his eyes on the door, trying to ignore the evil thoughts. But would it be so evil to make Hector happy? After all, he said he was family-

Charlie grabbed some of his own hair, ready to pull it out.

Now, all he had to do was wait.

-----------------------------

Jamie and Erin were taking care of Lucinda in the flat they now shared. The child was nervous around Connie, but the dog was gentle and careful. Good with kids it would seem.

She didn't say much, so Jamie put a cartoon on for her.

Lucinda needed somewhere to stay, but Erin and Jamie knew this was risky. As Charlie said, Du'met was still out there, he would search for her.

"At least the cops are taking it seriously," Jamie mumbled, making up the spare bed. She hoped Lucinda would be able to sleep. Wandering to the living room, Lucinda's eyes were glued to the TV, a smile on her face. Jamie has found some old Donald Duck cartoons, currently the duck was trying to get a plunger off of himself.

"Poor ducky," Lucinda said.

"Yeah, I always felt bad for him," Jamie said, the girl looking at her.

"He reminds me of Charlie," Jamie went on. "Nothing ever goes right then he loses his temper and-" she forgot who she was talking too.

"Charlie never got angry with me," Lucinda said.

"Yeah? Well he wasn't you boss," Jamie sat across from the girl. "Still, he wasn't the worst employer I've had. The first is usual the worst." Lucinda giggled. "To be fair though i could be a bit of a pain on the...butt."

"How?"

"I liked annoying him, and Kate. Not so much now though," Jamie looked at the door of the room she now shared with Erin. Where was she?

Connie stood up, starting to growl. Something was wrong.

"Erin?" Jamie called out. Hearing a thump, she sprung up. He instincts shouted at her that this was a bad idea, but if that maniac hurt Erin.

Slowly, she opened the door. The room was dark and in the centre lay Erin. She wasn't moving.

Now Jamie was level headed when it came to these things. If she ran in, she would be falling right into a trap. But seeing Erin lay there...

Du'met got impatient, stepping from behind the door.

"Shit!" Jamie stumbled back as Connie growled. Du'met swung his arm at her, jabbing Jamie with a needle before she could blink.

"No, you goddam bastard," she managed, before unconscious took her.

------------------------------

"Daddy?" The fear in Lucinda's voice told him everything. The dog lunged at him, but he threw it to the side, hitting it against a wall which knocked it out.

"Daddy..." he approached his daughter, removing his mask. He saw her calm down slightly, placing a hand on her cheek.

"Are they dead?" Lucinda asked. He shook his head, placing a finger to his lips.

"Sleeping?" Lucinda said. Du'met stood up, putting his mask back on. He approached Jamie, scooping her up before collecting Erin. He exited out the window, strolling down the fire exit as if what he was doing was normal before making it to his limo. Inside, an unconscious Mark and Kate lay, gaggled and bound. Placing the ladies inside, he went back for his daughter.

"Daddy...where are the policemen?" Du'met smirked. He had knocked them out already, locking them in a bike shed at the rear of the flats. He just shrugged.

"Are you going to kill them? Please daddy..." this made him pause. Charlie had told him she knew he was a killer now. Nothing would be the same. He knelt down, wrapping his arms around her, letting her know she would be unharmed.

She would forgive him one day. When she was old enough, she would understand.

Standing up, he scooped the child in his arms, holding her close. She snuggled into him as he left the flat, putting her into the front of the car, strapping her in.

Getting into the drivers seat, Granthem Du'met felt a nervousness he had never felt before.

This was it, his masterpiece, the art he had waited to create for two years.

He could not wait, after all, his favourite colour was red.

Chapter Text

Lucinda woke up earlier than usual, excitment flowing through her. Her birthdays were always special and tonight would be no different.

She was sixteen, finally old enough to become an artist.

Getting up, she noticed a Ruby dress hanging on her door, a note attached to it. She jumped up, reading the note.

"Happy Birthday Lucinda," it was from her father. Shrugging off her nightgown, she put on the dress. Perfect fit.

She immediately ran out to find him, going through the rooms of the hotel. The third hotel her father owned, this one yet to be found.

She found herself in the kitchen, where Charlie was, in his famous suit ( her dad got it for him as a reward for what happened that night, a mix between his previous outfit and one based off of Du'met's).

"Good morning Charlie!" She sang, running up and hugging him.

Good morning Lucinda! You look beautiful love," He smiled at her. "Looking forward to tonight?"

"I've been waiting ten years for this," Lucinda said, thinking back to her awakening.

she had followed her father into the warehouse, knowing she wasn't supposed to. Charlie was there as the victims begged for him to help.

Du'met looked at Charlie, placing a knife in his hand. Then he started his masterpiece.

He slit Jamie's throat. He suffocated Erin. Kate, he drilled through her heart.

Mark was the last one left. Du'met took Charlie and helped him position the knife, before helping him plunge it into him.

Mark screamed, unlocking something in Charlie. He stabbed again, each time more passionate than the last, until the man was dead.

Du'met hugged Charlie, calming him, the british man shaking.

"That...felt good," Charlie said.

That was when they noticed her, hiding in the shadows. Her father scooped her up, taking her to the car.

Charlie explained that what they did was art, that one day she would understand.

She did now. Years of practice lead up to this.

"Where's dad?" Lucinda noticed she had picked up a some of Charlie's accent.

"He'll be here. He's as excited as you are," Charlie leaned back. " Just remember that we are here if they try to fight back, alright?"

"Want in on the action old man?" Lucinda teased. Charlie huffed but said nothing. Lucinda couldn't help but laugh, cuddling up to him again. "Sorry. I love you Charlie. "

"I know, I love you too," Charlie said, his eyes moving to something behind her. Lucinda turned around to see her father in a suit similar to the one Charlie was wearing, holding something behind his back. Age was catching up with him, but Hector Munday could still hunt even the nimblest prey.

"Good morning dad," Lucinda did a twirl. "I love the dress." Her father nodded, wearing a familiar smile. He held out something for her, causing her to gasp.

"A mask? For me? Daddy thank you!" She took it, feeling the quality of it. It would cover most of her face, just like her fathers did for him. She threw herself on him, wrapping him in a hug, causing him to chuckle.

"This is for tonight isn't it? I can't wait!" She placed it on her face, suddenly feeling more powerful.

"We are so proud of you," Charlie told her. "Your art will be something special." Charlie handed her something, a gold plated knife. "You are ready, now paint the world red."

In that moment, Lucinda couldn't have been happier. She had the best family, and nobody would take it away from her.

Chapter Text

The last thing Mark could remember was being at Kate's house, talking about everything. She was concerned about Charlie, how calm he was considering the circumstances.

"I can't believe he killed someone," She said, trying to distract herself by making tea. Charlie had told them so casually, only reacting guilty when he saw the looks on everyone's face.

"I guess I just got used to it," He muttered, not looking at them anymore. What the hell did that mean? Mark was always one to try and see all the angles, it helped in his camera work, but the fact Charlie had accepted the fact he took someone's life...

"He did it to protect Lucinda," Mark reminded Kate.

"I know, but the fact he was so casual about it...Mark, what if Du'met did brainwash him or something? He was trying to keep his distance from us," Kate stirred her tea rapidly, spilling some on the floor. "The media are going nuts about this anyway. What are we supposed to do?"

"Stick with Charlie. That's what we should have done the last time," Mark sighed. "He wasn't angry about that. He wasn't really that bitter at all. I'm sure if Du'met brainwashed him, the psychologists will be able to reverse it."

"Maybe...He'll spend a few years in jail though," Kate looked so tired, placing the tea on the counter.

"We'll fight for a reduced sentence. If we visit him constantly, he'll know he isn't alone." Mark said. Kate smiled.

"Don't you have to go back to Brooklyn?" She asked. Mark shrugged.

"Are you that determined to get rid of me?" Mark teased.

"No, I actually...it was nice to see you," Kate said, inching closer.

"CRASH!" Mark and Kate turned towards the sound. Peering out, Mark could see the glass table in Kate's living room was smashed, some sort of object lying on top of it. The window was closed, but not locked. A moment later, the object started spewing out some sort of gas.

"Crap!" Mark closed the door, but the gas seeped under the frame, grabbing hold of them both.

He woke up tied to a chair, facing Kate. Erin to his left and Jamie to his right. What the hell? Then he heard it, the same classical music he had heard two years ago. Looking up and wide awake, his eyes landed on Du'met.

"No...please no!" Erin started hyperventilating.

"It OK Erin, we will get out of this," Jamie said, struggling against her bonds. Mark tried the same with his, but to no avail.

"Let us go, you bastard!" Kate shouted. Du'met smirked before stepping to the side.

"Charlie?" Erin whispered, still panting for air. Charlie was standing next to the seiral killer, not looking at any of them. Du'met pulled a knife from his apron, handing it to the director.

"Charlie...please..." Mark tried not to panick.

"Please what? You left me for dead," Charlie spat suddenly, still not looking at them. "No matter how much I begged for you to listen, you left me. Then you never came back. You just left." Du'met started circling them, like a lion about to pounce on his prey. Jamie kept struggling, one of her arm almost free. Had Du'met noticed? Or did he do that on purpose, to give her false hope?

"Yes, we did. We did something stupid out of fear," Erin said, trying to keep her voice steady. "I will never forgive myself and I...don't expect you to forgive us either." Charlie just stared, as if not understanding her words.

"Charlie...please. is this really what you want?" Kate tried, Du'met stopping behind her for moment, before walking on.

"I...don't know," Charlie replied. He was watching Du'met, who was now behind Erin. His eyes met Charlie's, both men just staring at one another.

Du'met smirked, walking behind Mark, his presence more terrifying now he wasn't visible. He was approaching Jamie now, raising a knife similar to the one he given to Charlie.

He was going for her first.

"Shit! Get away from me!" Jamie started to panic as Du'met stopped behind her. He brought the knife to her throat-

"Daddy?" Lucinda emerged from the Shadows. That one word changed everything, breaking Charlie out of whatever trance he had been under. He charged for Du'met.

The killer had hesitated when he heard the child, taken off guard by Charlie's betrayal, being knocked to the ground.

Jamie was finally able to get her hand free, using her screwdriver to free her other arm.

She just got out of the way as Du'met pounced up with the knife, succeeding only to stab the chair.

Mark noticed Charlie had raced over and cut Erin's bonds, giving her his knife, barely looking at her, acting on auto pilot.

Du'met went for Kate next, losing any composure he had, acting almost desperate. Jamie jumped on his back, stabbing her screwdriver into his shoulder, delaying him from his target as he tried to get a hold on her.

"Come on..." Erin was trying to free Mark, the knife almost slipping from her hands.

"Forget me. Help Kate!" Mark pleaded, as Kate tried kicking at Du'met. Jamie still held on to the murderer, grasping at his mask, but he managed to grab her and throw her off.

Charlie had grabbed Kate's chair, pulling it away but not far, as Du'met stalked after them, grabbing the director and holding him in a head lock.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," Charlie said. To Kate or Du'met, Mark didn't know, but the killers grip loosened slightly.

"There!" Erin had freed him at last, having ignored his request to help Kate (either she was too afraid to leave or just didn't hear him).

"Give me the knife. I'll help Kate," Mark said. Erin nodded, handing him the weapon before scurrying towards Jamie, who was still lying on the ground where Du'met threw her. He had no idea where Lucinda went, but he would worry about the girl later.

Du'met had placed his knife in Charlie's hand, the director starting to sob as Du'met guided it to Kate.

"Don't make me do this," Charlie begged, Du'met letting out a snarl as he readied the attack.

"This isn't on you," Kate told Charlie. Mark leapt forward as Du'met made Charlie go to stab Kate.

She had closed her eyes.

Mark managed to stab Du'met in the side, causing him to go off course. The knife missed Kate, Charlie able to drop it beside her.

Du'met staggered back, a look of confusion and shock on his face. He was still holding Charlie, who was able to turn around and keep the murderer focused on him.

Mark took the opportunity to free Kate, who couldn't believe she was alive. Jamie was getting up now, in the arms of Erin.

"Daddy!" Lucinda ran towards the murderer, who was now on his knees. He had taken off his mask, one hand on the knife in his side, his gaze on the child.

"Daddy, your hurt!" She said, causing Du'met to smile.

Seeing his face changed nothing, the man was still a killer. He gave Charlie a look, his free hand on the directors shoulder.

"Right...everyone, I need you to get out of here," Charlie said, sounding calmer than he looked. "Take Lucinda with you,"

"What?" Kate went to approach him. "Charlie-"

"Please," Charlie begged, before looking at the child. "Lucinda, your daddy is hurt. He won't get better."

Mark wished he knew what Charlie meant, but after everything that just occurred, he wanted nothing more than to get out of there and get the cops.

"You are a big brave girl now. Please be good for my friends," Charlie said. Du'met placed a gentle hand on the girls face. Love. He truly did love her. That only made the man so much more terrifying.

"I love you," Lucinda whispered, hugging the killer. Before backing away. Erin took her hand, everyone not reacting properly to what was happening.

"Charlie, we can't just leave you!" Kate tried again.

"I won't be long. I'm just saying goodbye," He said, his eyes on Du'met. He wouldn't be killed, Mark knew that, gently pulling Kate out the door. It didn't take long for the police to arrive led by agent Angela ( they had managed to track Du'met's limo, only taking so long because he messed with their tracking system and had knocked all the cops out).

"Du'met is in there!" Erin said. "He has Charlie and-"

"No," Charlie appeared, blood on his clothing and looking broken. "Hector...is dead."

‐------------------------

No matter how much he planned everything out, his instincts could not be stopped.

He told her to stay in the limo, but Lucinda disobeyed, curiosity and fear making her do so.

It gave Charlie a chance to betray him, letting the others fight back.

Jamie stabbed his shoulder, then Mark got his side.

He wouldn't be fit enough to escape now. Despite all his training from the FBI, Hector Munday was only human.

Sometimes he forgot that.

He looked into Lonnits eyes, the only person left with him now. His victims had escaped him again and Lucinda...

She would be free. She knew she would never see him again.

"It's going to be alright," Charlie said, knowing full well that it wasn't true. Hector pulled the knife out of his side.

""What are you doing? You'll bleed out!" Charlie panicked. "Hector, don't-" He stopped when, for the third time that night, he was handed the knife. Charlie knew what Hector wanted him to do.

"Please..." he tried again, knowing there was no other choice. He knew that Hector would be put on death row, giving a painful death. This way, it was a mercy.

And one last victory.

"Goodbye...I'll make sure that Lucinda will be safe," Charlie accepted his fate, plunging the knife into the killers heart.

It was terrifying and painful. But it was quick.

Hector Munday was dead, the last thing he did was smile.

---------------------

Lucinda was sixteen now. She was currently staying in a small cottage in the countryside of England. For the last five years, she finally felt at home.

After that night, everything changed. Charlie went back to jail, his trial a short one.

He told the judge everything, believing there was no future for him now. His former film crew all said their peice too, defending Charlie.

Lucinda said nothing. Her daddy was gone now, she was scared and confused.

Charlie was sentenced to five years in prison for two counts of manslaughter, which was less that he had expected. Agent Angela argued that Charlie was protecting Lucinda from Du'met, that he had no freedom in what he could do. Everyone was greatful for the FBI agent, as her word helped Charlie's case.

Jamie and Erin gained custody of Lucinda, promising to visit Charlie every chance they got.

Kate and Mark moved back to Brooklyn, starting a new chapter in their lives.

Lucinda got Holmes, her precious kitty back, Connie not to sure of the new pet at first. They were eventually found snuggling together.

Years past. Lucinda went to therapy. Some days were hard, but her new family kept her strong.

Then came the day Charlie was released from prison. He chose to move back to the UK, for a peaceful life. Lucinda promised to call him.

"Lucinda! Would you come down please?" It was Erin calling her. Lucinda stretched, still a bit groggy, not used to the time difference yet. They were staying with Charlie and his mother for a fortnight, Lucinda getting excited.

She rushed down stairs, sneaking up on Jamie, grabbing her in a hug.

"Morning mom!" She said, hugging Erin next. "Morning mama!"

"Happy Birthday Lucinda!" Erin sang, placing some pancakes out for her. Pam was stirring her tea while Charlie was not currently present. "Excited?"

"She better be, this trip was expensive," Jamie muttered in her usual tone. Lucinda learn Jamie used sarcasm as a front to hide how she felt in certain situations (or just to annoy people, usually Kate or Charlie) and that she was just as excited as her adopted daughter was.

"If you're looking for Charlie, he's out the back," Pam said, noticing that Lucinda was distracted. "Tell him his tea is getting cold." Lucinda laughed, opening the back door and being greeted by the cool British air.

Charlie was sitting on the steps leading to a walking path, just staring into the distance. He had quit smoking years ago, but held a pen just to distract himself. Lucinda sat next to him, reading what his face was telling her. He had bags under his eyes and they still looked moist from tears.

"Been having nightmares again?" Lucinda asked, Charlie jumping once he finally noticed her.

"Oh, morning Lucinda," He sighed. "Can't hide anything from you, can I?"

"Nope!" She leaned on his shoulder. "It still bothers me too."

"I'd be surprised if it didn't," Charlie looked at her. "At least...never-mind."

"You were trying to protect me Charlie. And as for...he wanted you to kill him," Lucinda wished she had the words to make Charlie feel better, but no such words existed.

"Do you miss him?" She found herself asking, Charlie letting out a chuckle.

"Not as much as I did at these start. No matter how he saw me, I was his prisoner. I...know that now."

"Yeah. I still miss dad," Lucinda said. She could always talk to Charlie about this, because he understood what living with Hector Munday was like. He saw Granthem Du'met lure people to their deaths, powerless to help them.

"I know he was...well, evil. I know he killed my re...original family. But...I'm glad I know you. I'm glad I have mama and mom and Kate and Mark. And Pam and Connie and Holmes."

"Well, you were the reason I was still alive," Charlie said, looking away again. "Don't think I ever thanked you for that." He wrapped an arm around her. "Now, let's forget this just now. Let's celebrate your birthday!" He let her go, standing up.

"Pam says your tea is getting cold," Lucinda said getting a swear from Charlie.

After taking a moment to gaze at the sunset, Lucinda followed him.

She loved her odd family. Every part of it.