Treading Water

*It could have been minutes or days since Wrath had stood in the kitchen archway and spoke a single sentence that had spun my world on its axis. “Vishous is missing.” Three words. Five syllables. And with them, time stopped. I had only the vaguest memories of anything in the following moments. I’m sure he’d said more but, I didn’t hear it. Nor did I notice when he left with George trotting jauntily in front of him. Since then I’d been treading water, my will to wake each day relying solely on our son and the hope that the rising sun would bring news with the return of the brothers. Shaken from the fog I now lived in when Sahvage whimpered in my arms, my wiggling young restless as he often was since his father had been taken. My stomach rolled as a fresh wave of fear took hold of me, taking shaky steps to the sofa and dropping into the rich leather upholstery just as my legs went weak. It was so common now as to be expected, my nerves too fried to eat or sleep more than minutes at a time in the oppressive emptiness of our mated bed. Illness and desperation had shortened my temper even more than usual, the combination resulting in a nasty confrontation with the doggen who’d tried to change the sheets on our mated bed. Flying into a hysterical rage at the thought of Vishous’s scent being washed clean of the midnight silk, I’d lunged for the wide-eyed doggen, knocking her off of her feet before Butch had pulled me off with the assurance that our bed wouldn’t be touched. I tugged down the collar of my shirt and pulled Sahv close to let him nurse. These moments with our child were the only thing that came close to calming me anymore. The passage of days was marked by the timed opening and closing of the shutters. Seventeen times. Eight days, I’d counted. Smoothing a hand over Sahv’s hair as he ate, I waited for the shutters to rise once more and with them the thunder of Butch’s boots racing down the hall of the pit to join the others in the search. I’d been clinging desperately to any shred of hope I could glean from the scant bits of information that filtered in from the brothers as they returned from their nightly search. My hellren was gone. Missing. If he wasn’t in the SUV that had to mean that whoever took him wanted him alive. Shifting my son in my arms, I looked up at a soft voice in the doorway. “Jodi? Is there anything I can do?” Marissa’s eyes were wide with worry; certainly for her own male who needed Vishous to purge the evil that he inhaled from the lessers he killed.* No, Marissa. Thanks. *She nodded and seemed to want to say more but I just didn’t have it in me to entertain her coddling. Right now I had to think of my male and our son. She left as silently as she’d entered, to hold her own vigil in the room she shared with her hellren. Sahv babbled softly and pulled away, popping a chubby fist into his mouth and chewing mercilessly, his newest tooth already beginning to break through his gums. I knew the brothers were sparing nothing in their efforts to bring V home but, they couldn’t possibly expect me to wait forever. I looked down at our son, seeing his father’s crystalline eyes and for the first time I could remember, I prayed, a single tear slipping down my cheek. Be it God, the Scribe Virgin, Buddha or fucking Cthulu, someone had to hear me* Please, don’t let him give up. Please… they’re coming, nallum. Just hold on. For us.

Gone

[The pansy chair creaked under my weight the moment I leaned back against it. Tohr and I were going over the intel the brothers had collected from the last few nights out on patrol around Caldwell. The Brotherhood’s job description had a new addition to its curriculum, aside from fighting Lessening Society we had to double our efforts as a result of the non-grata emergence of the Bloodletter’s Bastards. Now, even more so since making themselves known by approaching Vishous’s shellan, Jodi. Rubbing my eyes underneath my wraparounds, it was no wonder that between the bullshit politics, lessers, and the newfound Brotherhood enemies my headaches have been worse which added to my oh-so-fucking-bright-shiny- mood. Along with my second in command, we had covered enough ground on the map that the fact that the hiding place of the Bastards remained a mystery still had created a palpable tension in the room that was getting us fucking nowhere. The brother next to me reeked of a tangy scent that spoke clear of his frustration and anger every time we came up empty handed. Following another stretch of silence, Tohr said “Rotation has been flawless, nothing has been overlooked. We have even gone through the remnants of lessers left behind by the Bastards.” The word fell from his lips on a snarl, it was good to see the brother bouncing back to his passionate self, focusing on his target. “The brothers on rotation will cover more ground today.” His fist lightly connected with the oversized desk. “Xcor would keep them outside the city. Not too far out or their fighting grounds wouldn’t be right in our backyard.” Then I felt his steely gaze fall upon me. “We will find them, My Lord”.  By habit, my hand fell on George’s silky fur, the animal cowering into my side at the jostling nose coming from the brother. Leveling sightless eyes to where his face should be, I answer, my voice steady with command.] I don’t doubt the abilities of the Brotherhood, Tohr. Even if the Bastards are hiding in some little shithole under the last rock on this fucking planet, we will find them. [Petting George’s head before crossing massive arms over my chest, brows creasing as I mull over what we had on the table… and more] Has there been any news on Vishous's whereabouts? [A few hours ago, V had reported that he was due at the Clinic for the new techno-wiz-crap for the final stages of the new wing on site. It was hard to argue with the crack head it came to his gadgets. The brother knew his shit, dead to rights and after all, he did say it would only take him an hour, two tops. That had been a little over 3 hours ago. The call from Havers came around an hour and a half after the brother was due at the Clinic. The doctor anxiously explaining that V had been a no show for the install,  his worry more for the “minor glitch” in the project that would inevitably delay opening night for the new wing. In the most respectful of ways, I told him to fuck off. The disappearance of a brother was my main concern, especially when it came to the brains of the Brotherhood. Vishous wasn’t one to go on walkabout, not anymore… ever since his new roommate and, most importantly, shellan and young, he always made sure someone knew where he was. Just in case. Tohr’s silence fell heavily on my shoulders, we didn’t need this shit. Not now. Not ever.  The chirp of his phone successfully broke any other thoughts I had on the matter. I looked up at him expectantly, but he said nothing, impatience morphing into barely contained anger. Lately, bad news came barreling in without a warning and, ever since ascending the throne, I’d come to expect worst case scenarios. The phone clipped shut.] Well…? What is it? [Sensing the hesitation in my brother in arms, I grew increasingly annoyed until I heard Tohr suck in a breath. “Cop found the Escalade” He paused “Rhage and Z materialized on site… it was empty.” I cursed under my breath, dread settling over the room in a choking fog as we considered the possibilities. Two sets enemies with much the same motivation to take the brother.] Fucking fantastic, tell those two to go CSI on that thing. Every. Fucking. Inch. I want Vishous back, ASAFP. [As I spoke, the male took out his phone and made the call. There was nothing. No bullets, no blood.. nothing left in the SUV to go on at all to locate Vishous. Stroking George’s fur in a feeble attempt at staying calm, I felt the shooting pain burn through my temples as a brand new head-splitting headache reared its ugly head. Whoever had taken our brother would pay in blood. Sweeping the pile of requests and letters from the Glymera to be answered to the floor, I balled a fist and slammed it impotently on the desk blotter. Our brother’s disappearance just bumped to priority number one… right after I inform Jodi that her hellren was missing. Shit. The worst was yet to come.]

Bastards - 1, Brotherhood - 0

Ione

[The days of waiting had me feeling on edge. Being so close to having Vishous as my own left me restless, anxiously watching for the timing to be perfect. To abduct a warrior of the Brotherhood was no small feat and if a mistake would be made in the act, it would not be mine. The last of the subcontractor’s left the clinic, electrical wiring finally in place in the new wing and awaiting the security connections needed to add to the already installed system. Perfect. Purring low in my throat, I set off down the hall to seek out Havers for this last, knowing full well that Vishous had been waiting for his call, insisting on doing the work himself. Finding him peering over a clipboard near the nurse’s station, I cleared my throat to get his attention.] Dr. Havers? The new wing is completed sufficiently for the security system installation. I could call my own people… [He shook his head and reached into his pocket to flip open his phone, fingers flying over the numbers and greeting the voice on the other end. “If you would be so kind, Vishous, we are prepared for the wiring in the new addition.” He nodded at the response, his pleasantries grating on my impatience. “An hour then.” He closed the phone and smiled, his eyes gleaming behind his glasses. “Vishous will be here shortly.” Thank you, Doctor. I am pleased that the expansion is going so smoothly. [Turning away, I hurried down the hall to the office I’d been using, opening my own phone to call Throe] It is done. One hour. [Nothing more and nothing less need be said, I snapped the phone closed and made my way outside, clearing sight of the front doors and dematerializing to a thicket of trees that hugged the road leading to the clinic. Minutes were hours…but, he would be mine. Soon.]

Throe

-He closed the cell phone and smiled. Things were finally on the move. If the information given by the princess proved to be correct, then Vishous would be in their hands before this night ended. Getting up he went to inform Xcor that they were ready.-

Vishous

- It seemed like the work around the compound would never end. If it wasn't the constant battle against the lessers, it was the damn running against the bastards, and, of course, we can't possibly forget the run-ins with the civilians and duties as the tech expert of the brotherhood. Lately, I'd been working on the renovations for the Safe House and the clinic, which had found a new financial provider in the Glymera. At least, the fuckers were spending the money well. I was working on the new passwords for the security of the Safe House when I received Havers’ call. Curt words were exchanged and it all had been arranged. I would be there shortly to make sure the Hospital had a security system to my liking, wrap it all up in a few hours so I could return to my female's arms. I got out of the office and went to the nursery where I knew Jodi would be. Sharing some time with our young, whose growth could be now measured and appraised. Fuck me. The sight I walked it would forever be branded in my heart and soul. My female on the ground holding our young in the air, making cooing sounds and playing with him. She looked up at me when I stepped inside- I have to leave for Havers’ now, the building is up for the new security system.

Jodi

*squealing young frozen in air, I turn to you with a bright smile, narrowly avoiding a chubby fist to the face* We'll be waiting, nallum. You'll be home soon?

Vishous

- I kneel down and grab Sahv's hand, looking into your eyes- A couple of hours at most, it shouldn't be that hard -kissing my young's hand-

Jodi

*nods, leaning into you* I need a kiss before you're allowed to leave. *grins* Make it good. It has to last me 2 whole hours.

Vishous

- my lips curl into a full blown fangy smirk- This oughta be good - I close the distance between our lips and give my all to the kiss. My tongue quickly slipping between your parted lips for a passionate kiss that was meant to leave you breathless-

Jodi

*squeaks, nearly knocked off balance by the force of your lips on mine, melting into the kiss for a long moment and pulling away, my cheeks flushing deep crimson* Get going, you. *shoves at your chest* We'll pick this up when you get back.

Vishous

- fangy smirk- Can't wait, female mine - I kiss your forehead and Sahv's before I stand to leave. The walk to the Escalade fairly uneventful, as I text the cop to let him know where I'm at. Gunning out of the compound heading to Haver's clinic. -

Xcor

-Squaring mountainous shoulders as his boots tread heavily across the wooden floor, he stares darkly into the eyes of his two swiftest and most cunning Bastards. Knowing full well that tonight would be their best, and most likely only, shot at capturing the white eyed Brother cleanly. Ione would have her prize stallion, but only after we'd wrung every ounce of information from him first. By any and all means necessary. Clasping his hands behind his back, his fingers closing around the well worn handle of his lover, he addressed them together- T'night ye'll be taking the key to this fucking rat hole of a city. There'll be no mistakes, no errors in judgment, and no fucking off, am I makin' m'self clear? -Leaning in close enough to nearly brush his forehead against those of the Bastards leading this attack, his breath hot and dry against their faces in turn.- Personally, I could give a fuck'all if Ione survives this night, although it'd do us well to retain the glymera contact. What I'm after isn't what's between the female's legs.. -He snarls pointedly to Zypher before continuing- No. What I want is what's 'tween that Brother's ears. Every. Fucking. Piece. -He straightens once more, pacing slowly before the pair.- Ye'r stocked fer the attack, aye? -Nodding to the affirmations.- The time is nigh, my fellow Bastards. -Turning from them to close his hand around the door handle, he stopped dead for just a moment, speaking over his shoulder.- And mind ye well. Either one of ye cocksuckers fuck this up, better neither of ye return here. -Giving a low rumble of a vile chuckle- Ye'd do well to make damn sure I'll never lay eyes on either of ye again. 

Zypher

-nodding to Xcor, taking in the not-so-hidden meaning behind his words- No fuck ups. No diversions. –glancing to Throe- After you asshole -waiting while his comrade scatters to the wind, and then quickly doing the same.-

Balthazar

*Smirking at Zypher as he takes his dressing down from the man in charge, Xcor, I throw the duffle over my shoulder and demat to the pre-arranged location and make ready. Resting the muzzle of the long rifle against the wooden spy in St. Mary’s bell tower, my eye glued to the scope, finger at the ready. * Fighting and killing Lessers, although rather enjoyable has become a tad boring. Finally…finally with taking down Vishous, our plans for taking over have come to fruition. The Brother’s reign ends tonight with just one pull of a trigger. Pushing the transmit button on the Walkie-Talkie,* Ground control to Major Tom, commencing countdown, engines on. Locked and loaded and ready to roll. *My finger caresses the trigger like a perfect set of breasts, but unlike a treacherous female, my rifle is every ready and faithful. Too bad that were reduced to using horse tranquilizers tonight, instead of the hallow points I suggested at the meeting with the Princess. Outvoted once again, here I sit, ready and eager to put a hurt on our enemy*

Vishous

-following the winding roads that lead to the clinic, mind already ticking off the things that need to be wired... tucking a hand-rolled between my lips and fishing for my shiny new lighter, grumbling under my breath- Never did find that fucking thing -eyes dropping to the sound system to crank the volume-

Ione

[scowling at the scurry of wildlife around my feet, I snap my head up at the sound of a fast-approaching engine, my heart racing at seeing the looming outline of the giant black SUV, taking a cleansing breath and dematerializing into its path, my eyes locked on the form behind the steering wheel.]

Vishous

- Eyes blinking at the form that suddenly appeared in my path, breaking me out of my reverie - What the fuck?! - Swerving sharply, narrowly missing it and trying to maneuver the SUV as it hits the dirt shoulder but failing to completely miss a cluster of trees off the road. Pissed beyond belief, I get out of the car, slamming the door shut and stalked towards the female, my rage rising with recognition- What the hell are you doing, Ione?

Ione

[Holding my ground under Vishous’s verbal lashing, I leveled a gaze up at him, turning into his towering silhouette.] It seems to be the only way I am able to get your attention, Vishous. You are not an easy male to find. A problem that this should rectify nicely. [Chancing a sideways glance into the trees, I lift a hand to tuck a wispy curl back behind my temple.]

Balthazar

*Right on cue Ione does her little… look at me; I’m a helpless female routine, throwing herself in front of Vishous’s Escalade. And a predictable as the brother is, he actually stops to help her. Personally, I would have run her ass over, then back up to do it again. But that’s just me. Never did cater to the Glymera types. Their females always did rub me the wrong way. Standing there thinking they were better than me, while I would stand there knowing they weren’t. We all piss and shit the same way, no amount of money can change that fact. The Princess tucks her hair behind her ear, signaling me it’s a go, as my finger squeezes the trigger, hitting that white eyed fucker square in the cheek of his leather clad ass.*

Vishous

- I growl in frustration at her bullshit antics, I was starting to regret ever saving her ass. My diamond eyes glow in anger and I open my mouth to reply- Get this through your fucking head, you Glymera wh... -a sharp sting stops my words and the world tilts, the ground rising like a fucking space shuttle as the world goes black and I hit the asphalt with a sickening thud-

Zypher

-Watching the arrogant bastard face plant into the asphalt was a thing of beauty. Running from his place of concealment he prepared to grab the Brothers legs and get him off the road to the waiting pre-placed Mercedes as fast as possible. Seeing Balthazar take form he grinned- hell of a shot there. Now take his arms and let’s get him out of here.

Throe

-After checking to make sure that the Brother was in fact unconscious he slid into the driver’s seat of the Escalade and restarted the engine. Quickly slamming the large machine into reverse and flipping it in a tight circle heading back the way the Brother had just come. Intent on taking the automobile as far away from the city as fast as possible. Grinning at how easily things had gone, just let the rest of the Brotherhood try and track them. He felt like the first volley in an all out war had been served. Score Bastards 1 Brotherhood 0.-

Ione

[flinching a little when Vishous crumples in a heap of leather and sinew, hesitantly nudging his thigh with the toe of my Louboutin and grinning over at the males, tiny fangs glinting in the moonlight] Excellent shot indeed, Balthazar. [Flicks my gaze to Zypher] Remember our agreement. You are not to damage him. Take the information you need and then prepare him for travel to the Old Country. I will be checking on him, you understand. I must be assured of my terms.

Zypher

-Struggling with the dead weight of their new captive he flashed his most winning smile at the Princess- Our agreement will be honored to the letter, and I will be looking forward to your coming to check on him often.

Balthazar

*Dematting to where Vishous is doing his planking impression, I nod to Zypher and sneer at the Princess and her empty praise. I bend at the knee and place my hands under V’s pits and hoist as I grit out* Fucker sure is heavy. *making quick work of placing the Brother in back of the waiting, Mercedes G-Class, I put it in gear and head to the warehouse.*

Ione

[inclines head, casting a last lecherous look over Vishous and smoothing my skirts as the car squeals away before dematerializing back to the Clinic to keep up appearances, already making travel arrangements for myself and my new prize.]

Closer to the Heart

I hunched over the table at my workshop as I scrutinized the delicate details of the sliver of steel in my hand, carefully molding it into a tiny dagger. The pendant was a gift for my female on the surface, but it was much more than another piece of jewelry to give her. The idea had popped into my head a few days ago, still on edge that Throe had gotten so close to her. Even though we had learned of no attacks by those males against any females in the area I was still skeptical as to what their intentions were or what they might do to the shellan of a Brother. Who the fuck knew given their training in the Bloodletter’s camp and I was not risking that shit. This is the best solution I could come up with that didn’t involve something a little more… shall we say… extreme. The trackers I had on all the electronic gadgets and vehicles she used just wasn’t fucking enough, at least not in my book. I needed something closer, something not be easily spotted as a tracking device and more importantly, something that never left her and this would hang over her heart like I was protecting it.. or something. I shifted uneasily at the nancy fucking thought. The pendant solved that immediate variable in my equation. If something happened to her or my young… I shuddered at the thought. A simple pendant would go unnoticed by the tech-ignorant bastards and let’s face it Jodi would NOT appreciate the surgically implanted subcutaneous chip that was my first choice. A laugh bubbled up at that. The thought of what my female would do if I even suggested something so extreme was hilarious as fuck. Not to mention the amount of pain I would be in after she was done with me. My fangs punched down into my mouth thinking about that shit, it really was amazing how much power my female had over me. Even in my thoughts she could turn me on with one of her pissy looks and the promise gleaming in those big, chocolate-colored eyes. Finally satisfied with my work, at least as much as I could be…always a perfectionist can be about a gift meant for their soul mate, I slipped my wife beater back on and walked out of my forge with the pendant in hand. The tools had already been laid out in my office along with the chip I would be installing in the pendant. The plan was to complete this shit as fast as possible so I could test the software out before giving it to leelan. It was rather easy. At least for me. The pounding of my shitkickers against the floor drifted through the hall as I closed in on the door to the Pit. I took out my phone and texted the cop ~Meet me @ my office in 10, true ~  then I flipped the phone closed and shoved it in the pocket of my leathers as I walked straight to my office. Moving to my seat in front of my Four Toys I went straight to work, ass parked in the leather chair I pushed myself closer to the desk setting the dagger just under the cylinder loupe going right back to work. My focus back on the pendant I grabbed the tweezers to take the tiny chip from the black case that had been its resting place since I began designing the piece. In few mastered movements I had securely fitted the chip in the hilt of the dagger, cleverly disguising it as a jewel in the design. The cop had perfect timing, I had just started the program for the tracking device as he walked in using a towel to wipe off the sweat from his forehead. “You better have dragged me back here for something important, man” I rolled my eyes and looked over my shoulder at the half-annoyed male. “No bullshit, just need help with something, cop” I saw the way his body shifted with the tone of my voice, he knew it was fucking business. “Let me have it” he said, crossing his arms over his chest. I laid it all out; my plan, the tracker and most of all my fears for my hard-headed female if she managed to get out of the compound unescorted again.  That last was almost a guarantee knowing Jodi. When I was done I looked up at him, icy gaze glowing with thinly veiled concern.  “So.. –lifting the leather cord and letting the pendant dangle in front of my eyes, watching it as swung like a pendulum- I fitted this with a tracker, small but strong and with a nearly pinpoint accurate GPS signal –my leather index pointed at the jewel-like chip- just in case” I let the implication hang in the air, not even wanting to speculate out loud on the ‘what-ifs’. Then, my diamond eyes lifted to meet the cop’s hazel ones “and I need you to know how to operate this fucker… as a back up” without another word he nodded. The silent promise to do anything possible to ensure the security of my female was there and that was all I needed. He moved closer to me so I could run him through the system, where he could find it, how to read it, and how to work it. After a trial run using me as the target, verifying the tracking system was working perfectly, I let the cop go back to doing whatever he was up to the moment I interrupted and I went back to make sure the chip would stay in place even under a nuclear attack. A million things were going through my mind while I stared at the pendant. I was sure this was the right thing to do but I doubted it would be a smart move to tell my female she would wear yet another tracker in order to ease my paranoia. The distinct sound of Jodi talking to our young broke my concentration, in a second lightening my stormy mood. Yup, she could do that with just the sound of her voice. I got to my feet strolling out of my office and following the sound of her laughter to the kitchen. That crooked grin was in place as I hid the pendant behind my back. No matter the real purpose of the pendant, I had made this gift for my female and I was always thoroughly thanked for my gifts. So well, in fact, that I wondered why I didn’t do it more often.  Could you really blame a male for wanting to fuck his shellan after getting her something nice? My fangs throbbed at the thought when I decided… Nope, you really could not.

Dissension in the Ranks

Zypher

-He took the shove from Throe without a word, marching to the front exit as he seethed. He knew that he’d almost had Ione right where he wanted her. Females like her always put on the pretense of resisting; they enjoyed the feel of being lusted after. Scattering himself to the wind as soon as he reached the open air, he felt the uneven landing outside their lair become solid beneath his feet moments later. Instantly spinning as Throe appeared beside him, he launched himself at his comrade with enough force to send them both smashing through the thin wood of the door and onto the dirty floor within.- smashing through the thin wood of the door and onto the dirty floor within.-

Throe

Of all the bastards to have to meet Ione with, why did it have to be Zypher, the one that thinks with his dick? Did he actually think seducing her would work; the dumb shit? Little did Zypher know that Ione's fangs were in her vagina. Thank the blessed Scribe Virgin; he didn't mate with that one. Throe's feet barely made contact with the aged floorboards of the run down porch, when Zypher had him landing square on his back, head bouncing off the floor with a loud crack. Vision going black for a moment, he rolled with the momentum, gaining position.- You stupid fucker.

Zypher

-Not paying any attention to the surprised shouts of the others, he smashed a meaty fist square into Throes nose. Satisfied with the crimson spray of blood and crunching sound as the bone easily broke. Not giving the bastard a chance to recover his bearings he delivered blow after blow venting his anger at this evenings slight, and the frustration that came from too long without a female. The dominant position, once easily gained, was not so easily kept, as Zypher punched him in the throat, cutting off his air supply. His nose being broken next, Throe felt every fist to the face like an anvil. Knowing he had to take control before Zypher ended him, Throe raised his knee sharply, connecting with the soft tissue between his opponent's legs. The blows instantly stopped, allowing him free reign of his own. Grabbing Zypher on either side of his head, Throe threw his head forward, landing it squarely with Zypher's. -The taste of his own metallic blood coursing down his throat from his shattered nose-

Xcor

-having stood from his task the moment his Bastards had materialized outside the door, he had watched with a vague, detached amusement while they'd thrown fists and fought like alley cats throwing down over a female in heat. When Zypher's hip connected with his boot, he kicked the warrior off with a mighty shove, sending him crashing into the wall. His scarred countenance twisted further as his eyes narrowed on Throe. Closing the distance with two massive steps, he shoved two fingers into the Bastard's sternum.- Yer about to tell me that the meeting with the Glymera bitch went down smoothly, that there were ne'er a hitch in moving forward, aren't ye Throe. -Leaning in close, his breath hot and dry against Throe's face, he gritted out as he nodded- That's the only answer I'll be acceptin', feel me?

Zypher

-Throe’s knee managed to do what no amount of fist blows would have been able. Surprise hit him as his possessions were targeted, Fucking Bastard! An immediate intense pain ripped through his body like the slice of a cold sword. Rolling into a protective ball he hardly registered the swift boot kick to his side or the solid wall coming to met him. He lay cupping his injured balls as he fought against the overwhelming nausea-

Throe

-Standing tall, every muscle in his body screaming in protest, blood dripping in a steady stream from his chin, pooling on the floor at his boots, Throe met the eyes of the ugly bastard in front of him and nodded, and with a hoarse voice- The deal has been struck, no thanks to your Casanova here. It shouldn't be overly difficult to capture the white eyed Brother and hand him over to the Princess.

Throe

Of course, she has been informed, we will have our time with him first, as long as he is handed over unscathed, of course.

Xcor

-Nodding once, his mouth set in a grim line as he turned eyes filled with rage toward the Bastard still writhing on the floorboards- Aye, we'll deliver the Brother, after he's given up what he knows. -Raising his chin to Zypher, he growled menacingly- Ye be tellin' me that he'd been sniffin' up the female's skirts? -Stepping across to where the Bastard lay, he stood over him, a mountain of pissed off ready to deliver a crushing blow for jeopardizing the meeting.- Thinkin' with the wrong fuckin' head again? Count yerself lucky I'd not be puttin' an end to you here and now, t'would be an outright shame if ye and yer bastard cock'd lost us this one chance, now wouldn't it?

Zypher

-Having Xcor end him right here seemed an acceptable alternative to the pain in his gut. Coughing back the vomit that was making its way up, he tried to speak loud enough to be heard.- I..understand -was all he could manage.

Throe

-Looking straight ahead, his eyes fixated on the wall in front of him, Throe couldn't help but smile ever so slightly as he heard Zypher swallowing repeatedly, trying not to vomit. The pain in his busted to shit nose, well worth that sound a thousand times over- 

Xcor

-Resisting the urge to put his boot to the Bastard's temple, he turned on his heel and walked heavily back to the crumbling stone fireplace. He rolled heavily muscled shoulders and cracked his neck from side to side as his fingers closed around his lover, his faithful mistress, her razor sharp edge gleaming with a hunger to spill the lifeblood of his enemy. Not only the black of the undeads he and his Bastards hunted, but the crimson of the white eyed bitch who'd murdered his father. Patience, he chided himself, was his strength. Centuries of careful planning would gain him not merely the throne, but long awaited vengeance as well. He slid the scythe into her holster across his back and lifted the near empty bottle of whiskey to his lips, tossing it back with a grimace as he pointedly looked from one Bastard to the other.- Ye came close t'fuckin' this up.. more than once, no doubt. I'll not have ye destroying that which I've pieced together over so many fuckin' years, ye hear me? To have the opportunity to force a fissure into the pride-riddled Brotherhood, to snatch one of their own from under their self-righteous noses AND gain a foothold in the Glymera? -Yes, this is coming together with the well honed precision of the deadly, battle scarred warriors they truly were.- 

Strange Bedfellows

Ione

[The doggen cowered back as I my fist came down on my father’s desk, the rush of air sending papers scattering like leaves on a breeze. My growl echoes in the expansive study, sending the meeker ones scrambling out the heavy oak door. Contracts and blueprints, permits and designers.  Money and time spent in infuriating limbo in the sterile office belonging to Havers at the clinic and not a sign of Vishous. My temper flared and my hand shot across the desk, sending a crystal decanter flying into the far wall and exploding like a gunshot. Useless. Wasted. Perhaps this was not the way to the warrior that plagued my thoughts. But, I would find one.]

Zypher

-Stepping from the void of nothingness as both bastards materialized at the end of the drive, Zypher looked to the home of Ione. and nodded as he felt more than heard Throe materialize behind him- this is it...this is where Vishous brought the little princess...this is where she threw herself at his head. -He did not stop the nasty smirk- Throe

Throe

Materializing next to Zypher on the cobbled drive he was feeling wary at being in this neighborhood. Once, very long ago all this finery had been common place. Manicured lawns, spectacular architecture.. now it was just whitewash over the corruption that lie just beneath the surface. The aristocracy gave him hives.-

Zypher

-Sensing Throe's apprehension, he said nothing as he headed boldly down the drive, not bothering to conceal their presence. If this worked there would be no need to hide, the Band of Bastards would have an open alliance with the Glymera and thus..could take the throne. -Glancing over his shoulder briefly before he raised his fist to knock, he mumbled under his breath- smile ya bastard..these are your people. -He grinned as he knocked, knowing that would get a rise out of his fellow soldier- 

Throe

-Following behind as it appeared the direct approach was Zypher's way of making contact. Shaking his head, at the arrogance of his comrade knowing they were so not going to be welcomed was visiting royalty, more like common vagrants which they more closely resembled in their fighting gear. Standing tall regardless and willing to let Zypher make his play in his own way, unless things went south.- 

Ione

[railing until my frustration is spent, I screech at a brave doggen that had withstood the onslaught of my fury, pointing to the pool of shards on the floor] Clean that up and bring me another decanter. With a glass. [Watching him slink away to do as I’d bade, I hear the sharp rap from the entry, followed by the ratlike scurry of a doggen toward the door. “The mistress is indisposed….I understand but… yes, yes of course. Friends of the departed Master Donall are indeed welcomed here…” I rolled my eyes and smoothed the stray locks that had come free from their pins during my rampage, taking a seat in the oversized leather chair. “Mistress Ione? Two gentlemales have arrived, bearing condolences at your father’s loss.” Oh, for…] Send them in.

The Hand You're Dealt

Xcor

-lying in his bunk, the sound of raucous laughter echoing around the roughly hewn walls, he growled low in his throat, irritated and His plans were moving too slowly. Gaining the acceptance and support of the ever-fucking Glymera was tedious. A means to an end. Not that he was the most patient male in existence, now that the end result was closing in, he physically yearned to spill the blood of the bitch who'd slain his father. Patience, he reminded himself. Stealth and perseverance will bring her to her end.-

Throe

-Hearing the irritated growl from Xcor did nothing to dampen his mood. Reaching for the almost empty bottle and swigging it back he waited for Balthazar to play his next card- It doesn't matter how long you sit there looking at those, you still will not win

Balthazar

-fingering the Royal flush I am holding, a sly smile creeps across my features as I stare Throe down.- One must shut his mouth when he lacks the knowledge of the unknown. -I lay my cards down and scoop up the spoils.- Eat shit fuckers.

Zypher

-He had been like a shadow watching the club. His orders from Xcor were clear: Secure Females. That part was easy..what he had not expected was to be witness to such a daring rescue of a female by what appeared to be, well holy fuck.. Vishous and another brother. Would miracles never cease. He had followed them to what he knew to be a glymera neighborhood and had witnessed the kiss the female had bestowed upon the warrior. He could smell her want of him from the shadows. Interesting...holy hell Xcor would want to know this..apparently the daughter of Donall..of house Donall had the hots for a brother. This...was excellent news. Scattering himself to the wind, he made haste back to the Bastards current hovel intent on sharing this little piece of info. Fucking would have to wait..but only for a short while. He made quick time in entering and finding the leader- Xcor!...-a grin spread over his unshaven face- the scribe may like us yet..

Xcor

-rising from his bunk, scarred face set in grim acceptance as Zypher's voice carried to his ears. Expecting another group of soon to be repulsed females he wondered what the one who lost the coin toss to service me would look like. Surely she wouldn't be deserving of the terror she'd face. His boots clocked across the worn wooden floor as he threw the door back, a puzzled expression creasing his brow as he growled out in agitation.- What's this? Zypher the great has failed to procure females for his brethren? - sardonically- Will miracles never cease... might just have a mind to have ye turned out into the dawn.  

Throe

-palming his dagger and jumping up at the first sound of approach. He kept the dagger at the ready even after Zypher's voice reached his ear. He did not easily relax his wariness even among those he chose to fight with. It had kept him alive more than once-

Balthazar

Just so you know Throe, when you jumped up just now, you made a woman's sound. -I lean back in my chair, tucking my fingers under my belt. my shrewd eyes scan the room of Bastards, all of us lethal, all of us without mercy, all of us thirsty for power. my eyes linger a moment on the scarred, messed up face of our leader, Xcor. That one there, lacks a moral compass. Personally, I would rather fight with a mad man then against one. They don't come much bat crazier than him. I scan over to Zypher, my finger flicking off the scabbard of my short dirk, the grip honed to a shine with centuries of use. His eyes meet mine and hold. It's never been an easy alliance between he and I. Naturally born aggressors, the two us, we have clashed more than our share during our time in the band of miscreants. I sneer at him as I tap my brow in a salute-

Zypher

-Ignoring the growls, and sneers from his cohorts, as well as the insult from the man he would follow to the Fade, he quickly spilled the scene he had been witness to, proud to have found a weakness in the glymera strong hold. Ione wanted Vishous and more than likely could find him...perhaps the bastards could be of service to her. If you'll allow me to introduce myself to the daughter of Donall, I'm certain...-the grin spread once more- we could work something out

Xcor

-leaning a thick shoulder against the wall, he crossed his arms over his chest and narrowed keen eyes on Zypher. A chance sighting could likely be the necessary key into the inner circle of the Glymera. Well fuck if this wasn't proving to be predestined after all.  Grunting in approval, he nodded his head once to Zypher before turning to face Throe.- You. You'll be his shadow this night and until this female is found. Tell her near anythin' she has need to hear, just mark my words. Do not fuck this up. -Shrewdly watching the solemn nods of his Bastards, he stood and crossed the room, a heavy hand closing around a bottle of rum.- One utterance, one word. One hint of a location where we might find the white eyed Brother, you return to me immediately. We clear?

Throe

-nods grimly- we are. I know this family and this princess. She can be... difficult -smirking at Zypher- but the family is very well placed and a debt owed us from such a position would be advantageous.

Xcor

-His lips curled in a calculating sneer, acknowledging the logic in tallying up favors owed. Raising the bottle to take a long pull, he swallowed the warmth into his gut and pointed the bottleneck at the door- What the fuck are ye lazy bastards waitin' for? Tarry not! The sooner ye begin, the closer we'll be to meeting our goal, yeah? -Turning on his heel, he strode to the now abandoned chair across from Balthazar, dropping his ass in while he reached for the tattered cards, deftly shuffling the deck.-