Life was messy, or it seemed that way from the perspective of so many others. Valve’s tactics to gain and keep control were carefully planned and her methodology was pin-prick precise. The only part that was remotely messy was the free will of others. Fortunately, not unlike the weather, the behavior of others could be measured and predicted with enough experience.

Even Valve was not immune to this—those who knew her well could predict certain actions and responses of hers, and Evaline was one of the few who could count herself among them. Of course, their relationship—like every relationship in the black mare’s life—was measured. Evaline had information to share with Valve, and this was true power.

She listened carefully as Evaline explained Psychedelic’s deceptions, including his attempts to conceal his true identity—presumably so Valve would not find him and kill him—and his living under watch of a mare named Persephone. What was especially peculiar was that the filly that Evaline had abandoned soon after she was weaned was living with him. Valve snorted, resisting the impulse to scold Evaline for not taking care of her when she was small and incapable of defending herself. Talya being with Psychedelic was a complication, but Valve was unsure if it was a problem just yet.

“Hm,” Valve flicked her tail as she walked with Evaline, digesting the information and deciding the best course of action. “If Persephone can be swayed against Psychedelic, we should certainly ensure it.” In her last encounter with him, Valve had brought Gabbar, and the two of them had not been enough. If Valve and Evaline were to go encounter him again, she would want it to occur in larger numbers. “Perhaps you should share this with Shamwari as well,” Valve finished, deciding that she did not want to leave much chance of him escaping again.

VALVE
slenderman x black heart machine