Shane noticed Bette’s mood and placed a comforting hand on her friend’s shoulder.

"We’re going to get her out of there okay?"

Bette fought a wave of tears as she looked into Shane’s eyes and nodded.

"You might have to keep an eye on me once we get inside. If I find out Jodi hurt Tina in any way . ."

Shane shook her head, "Don’t worry. I won’t let you kill her . . at least until we figure out how to break the seal"

With the corner of her eye, Bette saw rustling in several trees before looking down and noticed Tasha approaching their tree. She climbed down followed by Shane, jumping off the last branch and landing on the floor in a low crouch. She got to her feet and dusted off her hands.

"Is everything ready?"

Tasha nodded, "All set and in position. Just say the word and we can get this party started"

Shane sighed and crossed her arms over her chest, "Let’s hope Nikki’s little ‘gift’ doesn’t let us down"

Both she and Tasha turned to Bette. The brunette seemed to be lost in her own world, her body was tense but alert and her eyes were glistening. It had only been a few hours but Bette looked like she hadn’t slept in days. She looked a mess.

Shane took a step toward her friend, "Are you sure you’re ready for this? We can always switch places and you can watch my back"

Bette immediately shook her head, "No, I’m fine. I want this over and done with as soon as possible. I want Tina back in my arms before the sun goes down"

Shane nodded, "And what are we going to do about Dana?"

Bette sighed, "I think Jodi’s controlling her with the blood seal. Hopefully if we can break it then Dana should be okay too"

"I hope so"

"Me too" Bette said gravely before putting on her game face and looking at her two loyal friends "You remember what I told you once we get inside right? Keep your thoughts to a minimum, or non-existent if you can. Jodi can tune in on them and then we’ll really be fucked"

Both Shane and Tasha nodded.

Bette returned the nod and sighed deeply, "Be safe my friends. Good luck"

"You too" Shane and Tasha said in unison.

Bette turned toward the fortress walls and began to walk over to them, her heart pounding fast.

I’m coming Tina, my love. Just hold on a little while longer.