<strong>[Dining Room, and exiting]</strong><br/><br/>With perfect timing, Enzo finished the last bite of his meal, pairing it with a final sip of wine. It was too bad that Melody hadn't exhibited more tenacity, as he had an uncharacteristic desire to sample dessert. It could wait, though. There was no pleasure so great as the use of the Power, and the slave who had just been granted to him presented an interesting canvas. Marco and Kiara were correct. The girl didn't have the willpower to endure the more drastic changes that could be visited on her. But the human mind was a strange and complex thing, even to the Xantelli's. There was no telling how he could make her grow given free reign to practice. Like a piece of metal that could be strengthened through work hardening, some human minds grew stronger through repeated stress. While others, sadly, fractured quickly. Enzo looked forward to finding which Melody might be.<br/><br/>He wiped his lips with a cloth napkin and folded it neatly atop his plate. "My thanks, father, for the wonderful meal, the engaging challenge, and the intriguing project. I will do my best to ensure that poor Melody's sanity is restored. I have hopes that she may become a productive member of our little society, in one way or another. And Kiara, your presence is always welcome. I would be quite happy to have an extra pair of eyes as we go through this process." He chuckled slightly and spoke toward Melody. "If you'll excuse the expression."<br/><br/>Enzo rose to his feet. "Come, girl, time and tide wait for no man. Well, save one," with another nod toward his father. "We must quickly get you to the clinic before you have the opportunity to hurt yourself." In a gesture that was a cruel mockery of the torment she had undergone he offered his arm to her, for all the world a perfect gentleman. "Let us go, then."<br/><br/>[--> Xantelli's Town]<br/>