Re: Hell of a pair

[Admin]

First of all, it was bathed in a dim crimson light, spread by candles hidden behind red glass hanging on the walls. Instead of rough plank, a long stylish rug covered the floor. Every other three steps a low table was set down, on it stood pots with glowing incense, spreading a not so unpleasant aroma. Above the doors hung drapes made of a red soft fabric, attached with gold-like rings to dark brown curtain bars. Some were open, some were closed… and many doors there were in this hallway.

Yaassima would be able to count at least seven on each side. But what was even more noticeable, were the sounds coming from behind some. The walls between the rooms were probably more sound-proof but here in the hallway sounds seemed only partially blocked. Perhaps it was on purpose...

Muffled or not, experienced or not, it was very clear to her what was going behind these doors.
Her eyes went wide. She looked at him, then at the doors, back at him. Her cheeks began to color. Was this a place of business for him? He said she would not be a whore, yet he brought her here? Her teeth gripped her bottom lip, sights, sounds and scents making her a bit lightheaded.

Moaning on the left, a whimper on the right, and as Lucius took her hand and motioned to follow him, they walked a path that would have made a celibate monk jump right through the first window. When they passed the third door on their left, they could feel the floor tremble under them, most likely as a result of lusty behaviour that was taking place on the other side of the closed curtain.

The trembling floor had her peeking at him. What kind of lover would he be? Passionate or gentle? Rough or tender? What noises would he make? Her cheeks started to flame at her own thoughts. She blinked a bit, uncertainty and curiousity showing plainly.

[Admin]

Two doors ahead on the other side, the ones present had little to no problems at all with the sounds they emitted as their physical devotion simply made the bed bang loudly and rapidly against the wall.

They were in a brothel, and by the looks of the furnishing of the hall they crossed and the stairs they were descending, a classy one. Which… might have raised questions considering the neighbourhood where they had started their roof journey. But who else besides Lucius could tell in which part of the city they had arrived?

Thus far Lucius had walked swift and with strong steps, yet carefully. Even with that black cloak surrounding him and covering his outfit he actually looked nicely dressed, the fabric a bit shiny, both that effect and the color suiting him. When she glanced at his face she could see that he was conscious of his physical appearance as he gave her a somewhat playful smile back.


After another stairs, and just before they ended in a warm and cozy looking sitting room, a soft voice became audible. Still holding her hand, Lucius and Yaassima finished the last steps of the stairs only to end standing on a thick and soft carpet. As if they were about to walk on grass, except it would have been brown and red instead. And as if the carpet and furniture weren't red enough, the room was bathing in the dark crimson light spread by an artistic candelabra hanging on the ceiling.

The surroundings had her gaze constantly moving, this all new to her. His playful smile is what called her back to him, thus when they entered the room her attention was on him. It was the soft voice that had her startled. Female...she looked at the room and those in it and felt her heart sink. Was he here... seeking companionship? Would she be forced to watch him with another? Could she see him with another?
Her posture stiffened, she raised her head. Still unschooled, a bit of hurt betrayed her thoughts, yet she stayed at his side. Silent and still, she watched... and waited, her chest tight with breaths she could not seem to take.


Lucius made sure he kept the small slender hand in his while he advanced into the room towards the one lady who was standing. The other three ladies looked up at the two newcomers.

A smile crossed over the lady’s face as she saw Lucius, her eyes shifting curiously to the short figure next to him. She stretched her arms to him and made a posh impression.
"Lucius, darling. How nice to see you."
She touched his shoulders, nearly a brush as she demanded for a greeting from his side, her head turning slightly, her chin lifting a bit.

[Admin]

Yaassima's hand tightened on his own as the woman smiled. Is this who he came to see? Is this who she would have to watch him with? And when she touched him, Yaassima's free hand went to the hilt of one of the hidden blades, the silver eyes narrowing cat like. Her whole body tensed, ready to spring.

Lucius's reaction was fairly neutral and polite, but he sounded like he always would have greeted this lady," Madam..." he offered her two kisses on the cheeks, but if Yaassima observed well, she would have noticed two things.

First of all, with none of the kisses, skin was touched. Secondly, Lucius dropped something in the pocket of the lady's dress.

The silver eyes were almost predatory as she watched the scene, her stance relaxing as she saw he did not touch either cheek. Then… the quick exchange was made. So this was a business and not a pleasure call. Her face became more neutral, the stormy silver eyes now taking in each detail of the woman's gown, how she wore her hair and how she carried herself.

Yaassima could perceive this lady, who was the assumed boss of this establishment, carried weapons, a bit much like herself. Her dress was fairly sexy, yet not too expressive, and enough fabric was left to hide even more surprises.

Yaassima's fingers entwined in his own, her body subtly leaned against his , almost as if she was staking claim on him. She tossed her head back slightly, letting the hood fall, revealing the waterfalls of dark hair and her features.

[Admin]

The ‘Madam’ had half long red hair, tied up in a knot. Her blue eyes looked curiously at the girl next to Lucius.
"And who is this young lady, my dear?" Her hand went to Lucius’s hair meanwhile, her fingers delving a few seconds in his black tresses.
Lucius let her do this and when she stopped, he turned his head in Yaassima's direction," She is with me, and her name is Yaassima."

A feral growl rumbled in the back of her throat, the silver eyes turning almost feral. Lucius was hers, even if he did not know it yet. She would not share him. A subtle feeling of meanace seemed to come from her, her body coiled as if a serpent ready to strike at the other female. Her eyes moved from the woman's hand in his hair to her face.

Lucius wouldn't have sounded too surprised if the 'Madam' had guessed the hooded figure next to him was a girl... since they were holding hands. Gently he squeezed Yaassima's hand reassuring, as if to say nothing bad was going to happen. "Yaassima, this is Madam Franciezka, the owner of this place."

She gave the other female an almost challenging look, her little chin lifted, her eyes wild and dangerous.

The 'Madam' looked between them, and then offered the small figure a smile," Welcome my child," For some reason this lady managed to look so that it was disarmingly. Reassuring actually. She turned to Yaassima," Let me take a look at you, dear." She touched Yaassima's cheeks and gently motioned her to turn her face a bit left and then right.

"Do it..." Lucius mumbled between his teeth.

Lucius would have felt it, that subtle coil of tension when touched. Then the trembling of her fingers as she was forced to submit to the touch of the other. It was only his mumbled words that kept her steady. She turned her face from one side to the other, a look of sheer defiance on her face in the doing.

As the fingers of the 'Madam' touched the cheeks, Yaassima felt one of the fingertips was ice cold. Suddenly her face was her own again as hands were withdrawn.

"There you go, my my, you really are a natural," she smiled and sounded kindly.

[Admin]

She relaxed as soon as the touch ended, but her hand tightened on Lucius' fingers and he could feel her trembling. The woman's compliments had her looking plainly confused. It is fairly obvious that she could not tell if the woman was being sincere or playing with her. The lashes lowered to cover the silver gaze, not one word leaving her lips yet.

The woman turned back to Lucius," For pleasure... I suggest the 'Temple'... and pleasure you will have I bet." She winked at Yaassima when she said it. Then she looked back to Lucius," I'll put this on your tab. Dismissed, darling."

"Thank you," Lucius nodded and said goodbye to the ones present. He motioned Yaassima out through another door.
She blinked a bit at the woman's words, her cheeks flushing as she gaped at Lucius. She was still in shock as he lead her out the door.

[Admin]

Franciezka looked a moment longer in the direction where Lucius and the female had left, a soft smile appearing on her face. So he finally had allowed a female close at his side again then. And by the looks of it... kin. The girl sure was a beauty, the symbols on her face intriging.
She certainly was not her type but Franciezka had liked how she responded. This girl was... protective of Lucius, and quick jealous maybe.
But good. Lucius deserved someone better than the last one at his side... much better.

As always and known for it, the Madam of the brothel was stunningly beautiful and very attractive in her elegant, red dress, its fabric effortlessly accentuating her curves. But to those who did knew her well, knew it was show only and none would ever be able to go further than what was currently at a display.
The Madam ran the business, but she never became the business.

Franciezka glanced one more time. Just like the male who just left. He came here once in a while, to chat, to drink, to talk business, but never he took a girl along. Not even to pleasure him a little.

---

Lucius glanced at Yaassima when they walked out, his instincts almost taking over and he could barely prevent himself from taking what he actually wanted. And he knew there would be more than just pleasure to it.

Focus Lucius, you should have done it earlier, but not now.
And with that he tried to ignore her scent, and how she would smell when they…

Lucius almost too soon shook his head to himself and led her through another hallway and at the fifth door on his right he stopped.
"You okay?” His eyes caught hers. "You are doing great so far..."

She looked at him....and her cheeks flushed hard. “I...am sorry..."

A brief shake of his head was his only reply while his hand moved to his hair and something dropped out the black tresses in his hand.
When he took the small object between his fingers, they could both see it was a small metal key.

[Admin]

She blinked and blushed harder, now looking down at her feet. It had all been a ruse....and she behaved like a jealous wife, and she had no right to. What must he being thinking of her? Gods, what a fool she was.

Whether Lucius had noticed that or was judging on her over that, was hard to tell. Instead he let her hand go and unlocked the door with the key, revealing a dark room as it swung open.

"Go on…," Meanwhile Lucius glanced over his shoulder at the entrance of the hallway.

She sighed softly, now subdued as she stepped into the dark room, her hands now twisting together. She messed up...overplayed her hand.

Lucius entered too and the door closed behind them. Although the room was dark, their heritage provided them with a sight able to see even in the darkest of caves. Glancing around nervously, they see somber portraits staring at them from behind layers of dust.

She could tell the room was opelant, rich. Walls were covered in cloth, though the pictures were shadowed with age and too much dust. "Where are we?"

"Not where we are supposed to be, at least not yet." Lucius moved to the fireplace in a straight line, and she could only assume whether to follow him or not. Blindly he took ahold of a small statue above it and gave it a twist.

She followed him, almost as if she knew that she should. There was no hesitation as she watched him. The back of the fireplace slowly creaked to the side. It was dark, and it was small, but the opening was large enough for them to step through into the passage beyond.

[Admin]

As soon as they entered, a stairs was there leading them down. Behind them the passage way closed again and as they ended up in a cellar, suddenly the only door down there flew open....
Five black clad men came out and surrounded the pair.

"Easy now...," it was not clear if Lucius said it to them or her.

As soon as the door opened, she moved in front of him, her blades in hand, now in a defensive stance. One arcane word died on her lips as Lucius spoke, but she did not cease the protective stance, ready to take a blade for him.

"Well well, what do we have here, a walking stiletto?" one said. The others chuckled softly.

Lucius replied," Better not offend her, she's with me."

Her eyes darted from man to man, her chin upraises, both blades in hand. The silver eyes found each male, the look in them ice cold. She was a panther protecting her cub, wild and unpredictable.

“Ha! Fancy thing you got there, Lucius. Brand new and a beauty. You hardly meet any like those these days." He grinned as he saw how Lucius laid his hand on Yaassima's arm, gently motioning her to lower at least that blade.

Her arm lowered at his unspoken command, though the knives remained out, within sight. Her lashes lowered over her eyes and she remained silent and still.

"Cut it out, Slik. I'm here for Her, is she in?" Lucius sounded relaxed but Yaassima could tell he rather didn't want 'accidents' to happen as he moved to business right away.

As he moved to business so did she...instinctively moving more to his side. It was very apparent however that she maintained a protective stance over him. The look on her face said that anyone who dared touch him would taste cold steel.

The man, an older guy with a greasy beard, rubbed the hair under his lips as he still glanced a bit amused in Yaassima's direction before he finally looked at Lucius," She is in, you wish to communicate with her?"

Yaassima remained very still and very silent, but she leaned ever so slightly against him as if for comfort. Another female...is this the one she would lose him to?

"No, I'm here to date her, I said cut it out, Slik," Lucius sounded annoyed, but there was also a chance he was playing that," If I'm here to see her, then yes. Take me already to her." Now Lucius even sounded intimidating and seemed not the least impressed by the other four surrounding them. Meanwhile his hand went to Yaassima's butt," And she comes along." It was hard to tell whether this was all a play or something else.

She trembled slightly at the touch but remained quiet and defiant, waiting to see what these men would do.

Slik gave Yaassima and appraising look and just grumbled a bit before saying," Hmm, guess I can let her pass, but since she isn't a Inner Circle, no weapons." He grinned," Guess she gunna ave to strip."

[Admin]

Lucius would feel her whole body tense, and he hand no warning as her silvery eyes flashed. "You want my weapons...you can try to take them...and if you wish me naked...ask your self one question...are you prepared to die for the chance?"
She said it before Lucius had the chance, then he glanced at her approvingly... this young and short girl was able to stand her man. Except an outsider better didn't mess with a Watcher. To prevent the situation from escalating any further,

Lucius stepped in between, and the words he used seemed to underline some rank," I said she is with me, Slik, unless I am not trusted anymore?" His ice blue eyes seemed to freeze the man on the spot.

Slik looked from her to Lucius," Dammit devil-breed, you know the rules and you know well who has to make sure they are lived by.”

She stood at Lucius's side...and handed him her two blades. He would know she had many more, but she pressed the two into his hands. She tossed her hair back and looked at the other man defiantly. "Lucius… is the only one allowed to undress me...anyone else...will...lose...a ..limb."

Her reaction stirred something within him, his blue eyes flashed to her, a question in them, yet his thoughts hidden for her. Lucius, she wants you… she wants you to see her. Can you imagine that??


They both could see how the other men started to grin, while Slik accepted the blades which Lucius gave him blindly, his eyes remaining on the girl.

She stood quietly, defiantly, waiting. Her head was held with pride, her face a mask.

He slightly raised a brow as only communication, while he tried to wet his lips as unnoticed as possible.

She just looked at him, giving him that trust. She was tensed, but she would not show fear.

"You can pass," Slik said.

Lucius snapped out of it and turned to Slik," Lead us in..."

Yaassima took a deep breath, there was a subtle relaxing of her body and once more he felt her lean against him slightly.

[Admin]

A door was opened before them, behind it : a long corridor immersed in darkness. They were in a subterranean complex, that much was certain for her. As far as her sight could go, it looked like a rabbit hole, narrow, a curved ceiling...

Lucius took her hand again and they start their journey into the deeper parts of this mysterious underworld.

Darkness never bothered her, but enclosed spaces reminded her of the cage. Her body was on edge, the confrontation with Slik having her already wound tightly. The smell was dank, mildew and dirt along with rot. His hand was her lifeline, her fingers were tight in his own as he seemed to count his steps.

A turn right and they had to duck tree roots, the squeaking of rats preceeding them. Beady eyes stared out from the shadows, watching them as they passed. One cavernous area opened, three forks in the road.

Lucius did not hesitate at all, moving right again, which lead her to believe he knew exactly where they were going. He had her trust and he had not failed her so far.

After what felt like a neverending batch of decisions, they suddenly stopped. Lucius took something from his pocket, and this time it didn't look like a key but it looked more like a short wand.

[Admin]

She watched him a moment, the silver eyes moving to his face. "Lucius...will I need weapons? I have more."

Lucius' arm was already going up, aiming at something with the wand. Half way he stopped and looked at her," I know you do and you don't need them. I don't want to lose you, sweety. We've just entered the Circle and are near the Center. Anyone drawing a weapon against another, will be automatically eliminated, despite of who you are. This rule even counts for the Bosses."

"You will never lose me, Lucius. I am yours now." The words were almost said carelessly. She stayed at his side and willed herself to relax. He was in charge, he would keep her safe. She could trust him.

There you go Lucius, now claim her…
Instead a mysterious smile appeared on his face and he turned to face the wall.

She saw what appeared to be odd symbols glowing... then a wall seemed to creak slowly open, the hidden door revealed.

[Admin]

Chapter 3

Undertown


Lucius looked from the door back at her... hesitation in his movement... but only very brief and he wasn't sure if it was noticed by her. Did she just say... she... he blinked, but just once and this one time. Then a single mouth corner went up, and he reached for her hand again right before motioning her to follow him.

Behind that wall, a whole underground city was revealed. Yaassima had once heard people talking of the criminal underbelly of a city, she never dreamed such was possibly real. Crude wood and rope bridges linked levels and buldings. There were a few pull up systems set up to move goods. Torches produced illumination but also an acrid smoke that stung the nose.
Crude watch towers were erected of wood and stone, guards restlessly watching all whom moved in and out. There were a few rough looking men playing dice, a few others talking or drinking. But there was no fighting. However, she could feel speculative gazed as she moved at Lucius's side and she had to resist the urge to tug the hood back over her head as the eyes roamed over her silk clad body.

Lucius walked in, and it was no longer a secret to Yaassima how self assured this man could look and could be, genuine or not. Where eyes roamed a moment over her, others glanced only briefly at Lucius before quickly shifting back to whatever they were occupied with.
They crossed a bridge, took a left, descended another wooden path and simply ignored any further looks that were given. Lucius almost looked in a hurry. Who did he want to talk to…

She watched, it was something she was always good at. She saw the way the men would look away if Lucius even let his eyes pass over them. She did not know who he was down here. But she knew that he had these people's respect. And, thusly armed, she raised her head higher, her own stride became a bit more confident.


This what appeared to be the final part of their journey didn't last long. Suddenly they stopped before something what looked like a small underground tavern.

Lucius whistled a tune, something Yaassima hadn't heard before. Almost immediately a door was opened and a voice said," Enter..."

The voice was female...but she could not tell if it was young or old. She looked at Lucius and placed her hand in his own.

Lucius had no idea why, but he gave that hand a reassuring squeeze and both leaped once more into darkness as the door closed immediately behind them, the person or mechanism causing this, undetectable.

[Admin]

Lucius just stopped, his dark vision slowly adapting, yet he wasn't able to see more than the contours of some furniture, a shade less black than the atmosphere surrounding them. Darkness is a form of loneliness and loneliness is a form of darkness but so it has been almost half of his life. He was used to it. Then he glanced at her, and even though she wasn't merely more than another shade of black, he saw her stance and couldn't help but to smile.

Shadows, her whole life was shadows and darkness. When people could not see you, you were safe. Yet for some reason, she felt uneasy here. Something was about to be revealed. Something was about to...change things once more. She could feel it around her like a funeral shroud. She let her eyes grow accustomed to the black.

"Watcha doing here?" the voice sounded, this time more clear, less echoing and above all nearby. It was female and almost child-like.

The voice sounded and there it was... there she was. A shade that was not quite the blackest of the shadows. The voice did not seem pleased and Yaassima just wondered how old this female was. But she also knew that looks and sounds could deceive, thus she kept her guard. But she pressed closer to her companion's side.

"Good evening, Boss. I wouldn't have come if it weren’t for a serious matter."

Boss....his boss....and therefore she had to watch her steps carefully. She would not shame him, not here and not now.

[Admin]

Perhaps it had been Lucius' intention to make her clear how important this was, but he waited for the response from the other side, somewhere out of the darkness.

"Righto, Lu, cut to tha chase. I have only litta times." Then she giggled," And she -is- adorable. If I would'ave more times, I would'ave scolded ya for bringing someones in hiding dozens of blades. I gotta say tho, I'm intrigued. Ya got balls, Lu. Talk quicks and pe'haps I spare ya later."
Another giggle…

It’s clear to Yaassima, whoever was in here, knew her 'Members' or whatever they were pretty well.

The words had her stiffening, but the threat to Lucius had her tensing. Her eyes looked to his face, awaiting just one sign. One sign from him, and she would go on offense and fill this shadowy realm with enough light to blind.

Lucius didn't seemed in the least intimidated or knocked off his feet by these words. Instead he seemed to find confidance enough in his answer," One of ours was hired to kill me," he said bluntly.

Yaassima blinked in surprise. One of his own tried to kill him. He... was betrayed. This little female best have answers, because she would never allow such an insult to her Lucius go unpunished.

"Hmm, that would be against all regulations, isn't it? Do you have proof?"

Lucius snorted," Of course I have proof, Yaassima here killed him. It was Hector. Should he ever show up again, check his pulse."

She raised her head, standing proudly, her stance defiant.

"A serious matter indeed... you see. She killed one of us." Another giggle," How unfortunate... since there are regulations for that too."

She palmed one of her blades and had it ready, her whole body growing cold. "You...are not that cute, nor are you that smart. I am his guard...I would have taken a blade for him...I would kill for him...and have. So...what do you think I will do for myself?"

An amused chuckle and hand clapping," My oh my, Lu... this isa fuust prize fo'sure! Pe'haps we'll let her live as a token of our appreciation as she bathes with the alligators." Another giggle but then suddenly everything fell silent.

Lucius was breathing through his nose and Yaassima could hear it this time, he too was tensed a bit, but then quickly forced himself to relax. After all, this was his home, his domain and he was here for his case.

When he relaxed, she went still. She turned all emotions off. She listened, her eyes scanning the darkness. She breathed in and out, smelling the air. She was aware of the very air currents. One signal from the man next to her and she would release hell.

"Well, all silents now and listening as well... very good, ya're a fast learner gurlie. Sowww... Hector ey? And I assume ya wanna find out at who he asked pur'mission to operate? Aight?"

"Thats right," Lucius coolly replied, clearly not using more words than necessary.

"Mmmhh, ya're lucky ya work is much appreciated Lu, take yar gurl wit'cha. I'll send word when I knows more. Ya ave the right to know and the answer will be given. Rememba though, pur'mission is required be'foo action is taken."

Yaassima was still, alert. Her eyes roamed, her eyes pricked. She was unexplicably annoyed. This female was playing games with HER Lucius' life and she did not like it one bit. She was edgy, the silver eyes flashing almost like strikes of lightening.

Lucius’ voice was more relaxed now," Of course. Why you think I'm here? I could have taken out the man who Hector was working for, but I go by the Code. Still, I don't like it when a Member attack one of his own."

[Admin]

Whatever this code was, she didn"t like it. He saw the luscious lips form a pout and knew his little companion wanted desperately to get her claws in whomever struck at him. Her fingers tightened on his own.

The young female voice was now more serious," Me thinks me wouldn't likes either, though it happened befoo."

Lucius almost growled," And risk losing someone important?!"

His growl had the woman at his side tensing then he heard the low, matching growl... as if his very mood had an effect on her.

"Now now, Lucius, you kno’what. I'll look it up for ya. BUT, neva’ forget what bus’ness we’re in, death always lies aroun’ tha corner."

"That doesn't mean we start to betray on our own!"

He heard her indrawn breath, he felt her annoyance and her rage. Animal instincts were kicking in and she was using the last of her self control to stay silent for him.

"Keep her and yarself on a leash, Lucius. Ya know we’all like whatcha do. Now, go to tha Center and wait for my call."

Lucius snorted," Right. One day..."

"And then what, Lucius? Watcha gonna do?" the voice was a bit teasing.

Lucius fell silent a few seconds, before he replied," Then I'll take my case to Him."

She remained silent. She was curious, but she would ask no questions here. No, to anyone else, it would appear that he had her perfectly in control. She would never question him in public. In fact, given the games being played, she now wanted people to think that they were of one mind.

"Now’what Lucius, trying to pass Her by going to Him?"

Lucius shook his head," I know you are Her, so cut it out Lex."

So, there was a boss higher than this little female. Good to know. She became calmer. A small smile played upon her lips, her busy little mind working as she waited for him to lead her off.

[Admin]

Ca’ful Lucius, ya're close getting outta line. Rememba, ya get in easy, and may go out in a bag. And that counts for yar... who’she anyways?"

Her voice came out, smooth as silk and no inflection in the words. "That sounds too close to a threat for my liking... and you just made an error in judgement… I have been threatened all of my life, and I am still here. If the idea was to scare me, you failed horribly. Some of us live in nightmares. It makes us immune."

"Well gurlie, we can be worse than nightmares, but you got balls, give ya that!" the voice sounded before giggling. Then it suddenly stopped and the voice came back, more rough again," Now outta my sigh, befoo I change minds."

"Right," Lucius squeezed Yaassima’s hand," Lets go."

She just held his hand and let him lead her out.

Lucius muttered under his breath as they left the room," Right, so much for rendered services."



She was tensed as they made their way out. She could feel his annoyance and his displeasure. It made her wish to hurt whatever caused it. She was falling for him... and he had no clue.

Lucius led her deeper into the underground complex which looked almost a little subterranean village. There were even people at work here. A smith preparing iron for a blade, two carpenters fixing a wall, heck, there was even someone picking up junk from what could pass for a street!
All that time Lucius only seemed to have eye for his own thoughts, the hand of Yaassima in his, but almost unaware of her presence for a few moments more.

People scurried back and forth. The scent of food cooking filled the air... and not swill. Someone was actually making a good attempt at a meal. Males and females interacted with each other, talking, playing cards or dice. It was its own little city.
Yet, in spite of all the sights and sounds, her gaze kept traveling to his face. She gnawed on her lower lip, knowing that whatever happened, he was worried.


He took a left in what looked like the main street and a few seconds later he suddenly stopped, all that time without communicating. If she weren't holding his hand, she would have felt the sudden pull as he stopped.


She stopped as soon as he did and went on instant alert. Her eyes scanned the area restlessly, her ears listened for each sound. Her free hand went for her blade.

Then he seemed to notice her again, the tension and the thoughts raging through his mind disappearing as if by magic," No, don't... it's forbidden, remember? Besides, we are here." He turned to a door on his left.

His words had her hand falling to her side and she watched him curiously as he led her through the door, not knowing what to expect.

[Admin]

Behind the door in the miserable wooden facade, a totally different world appeared. It was just like with his room at the inn. This place was steeped in luxury.

The room reminded her of him, from the crimson, onyx and gold carpet to the walls covered in burgundy silks. In the far corner to the left a large bed dominated, gleaming red and black satin making an inviting nest.
Piled with pillows, the four posters had black velvet curtains that were tied back, the wooden bed frame cunningly made with drawers and cabinets built in underneath it.

The other corner was blocked off by a half folded silk screen, a picture of a dragon painted in reds, oranges, greys and gold. The tub beyond it was big enough for two, a red painted cabinet obviously holding soaps and towels next to it. A mirror would reflect the scene back to those using the tub.

The wall to the left of the entry held a fireplace, two comfortable looking chairs placed before a silky looking fur rug. The mantle held vases of dried flowers, beeswax candles and little carvings of birds.

The wall to the right of the door was built in book shelves. A small table and two more chairs sat before them. To the side, a small bar sat, decanters of spirits and wine sharing space with crystal glasses. Vases filled with dried flowers and small statues of lovers decorated the room, along with well painted artworks that made one forget the lack of windows.

[Admin]

After leaving her hand, Lucius lit up the room by igniting several candles. At first the light was dim but soon when all were on, they were able to see all the details even better.

She wandered around the room, uncertain, feeling his distance but not knowing the cause. She moved to the fireplace, trailing a finger over the carvings before she removed the cape and laid it over one of the chairs.
Then she faced him, the silver eyes seeking his face as if all this luxury that he knew she had been denied was not even there.

Waving out the matchstick, Lucius’ eyes wandered back to her. He threw the tiny wood on a small table and walked over to her as if caught by something.

He moved towards her and she was ensnared. She would have been unable to move even had she wanted to, her eyes fastened on his face. Did he know how handsome he was? Did he know what she would do for him?
She felt her pulse quickening and had to fight the part of her that wished to hide.


Now Lucius, now... !!

"Yaassima... ," he started as was near her.

She wet her lips nervously. “Yes, Lucius?"

Once again caught by her beauty, her presence, her scent… Lucius looked into those silvery eyes and before he knew it, something ‘snapped’ within him.

And suddenly his lips were on hers, the kiss was soft, but urgent and above all felt genuine... and then he looked again in her eyes.

Yes... that was all she could think as his lips captured her own. His taste, whiskey and male, his scent so distinctive, the feel of his warmth. For a moment, she believed herself to be dreaming.
Then the kiss ended and his ice blue eyes captured her own. Did she dream that? No... her fingers moved up to touch her still tingling lips, surprise on her face.

He tried to gauge whether she was pleased or not. True, he had noticed a few signs that may form an indication for what she herself wanted from him. Well, too late to turn back now. The kiss was given and he was surprised himself doing this so all of a sudden. The only expression changing on his face though, was a slight lift of his left mouth corner," You like?" he asked soft yet confident.

[Admin]

She licked her lips, still tasting him for a moment, her breathing becoming a bit ragged. Slowly she just nodded, uncertain what she should do now.

He didn't have to think twice, the small nod, those eyes on him, the tip of her tongue going over the places his lips just stirred... no longer he could hold back now. Abused or not... he would show her what he felt... and by that... what –he- wanted to do with her.

His eyes burned. That was the only thing she could think...that his eyes were like blue flames suddenly as the currents of air shifted between them. Something just changed, she was uncertain of what. Cool air kissed her skin.
She swallowed, her eyes on his face as his own eyes roamed over her. Would he like what he saw? would he find her ugly? She bit at her lower lips again, her arms first moving to cover herself then falling to her side.

Her eyes fluttered shut as she let him gaze his fill, those blue eyes seeing to offer an almost physical caress.


Eagerly he leaned in and touched her lips with his while his hands explored what was currently revealed. Even eager, his touch was warm and tender, proof he still was in control of himself… but for how much longer?
First he needed to discover how she reacted on all of this. His lips parted, showing her what else he desired. And even in those first seconds when he was still in this cloud of unknowing, Lucius admitted to himself he had fallen in love.

True, she was young, but she also seemed ready. Again Lucius wondered about her background, her past, and for a moment he hoped what he wanted to do with her, wouldn’t recall any bad experiences she might have had. He…. cared about that, he… cared about her. He wished to make love to her, not to hurt her.

She trembled as his hands roamed over her, his touch so warm. Any other she would have fought, but his felt so right. She wanted him closer, to feel more of him.

Look at her Lucius, look at those intensely beautiful treasure standing in front of you. And she is even one of your own people. She must feel it too, what you feel. That physical attraction, the calling in her blood, the urge to mate originating from the search for someone who can satisfy her and who doesn’t hold back to share everything with her… the lust of the flesh -and- beyond.

How was it with that other aspect? Would he be the one to her? Would she love him like he already had fallen in love with her?
Lucius, Lucius, what have you gotten yourself into?

His kiss was intoxicating, her lips pressing against his own as she made a small sound in the back of her throat. Her hands slowly explored his chest, stroking over corded flesh. He pulled her against him and she trembled. Her heart was pounding loudly in her ears, her knees felt weak, her legs trembling. Her eyes opened and she gazed at his face. Her lips were swollen from his kiss, lush and red.

Feelings in the world he walked were a dangerous thing. Any hint of distraction was enough to leave that world way too early. Not a very healthy prospect…

Yea, sure, but look at that girl! And not only at that body that made him struggle with every nerve in his system in order not to jump her on the spot. No, look at those skills, look at that loyalty she has shown thus far, look at how well they had worked together when their lives were in danger.

“You don’t have to be afraid….” the words sounded a bit weak if they were spoken to a girl who had been sexually and mentally abused. He still had no idea what all had happened to her. If it turned out one day to be true, he would go back for those gypsies and cut their throats anyways.
You’re in love, Lucius, calm down, like you always have been…
… Too late for that, your intentions are all too clear to her, Lucius.

Her head tilted. It was his words that broke the hazy spell he had cast on her. Her head tilted and she gazed at him, with a hint of innocence in her eyes…
Afraid... of him? Why would she fear him? She was confused, bewildered...and hungry for more of his taste and his heat. "I am not afraid with you, Lucius...I know...you would never hurt me...not on purpose."
Her eyes then shadowed a bit and she looked down. "You just may one day break my heart...but that is okay too..."

His hands left her back and one went up to her chin, lifting it so that she would have to face him.

The silver eyes found his eyes, the blue flames seeming to strike straight to her heart. She swallowed nervously , then her teeth bit down on her lip. "It is okay, Lucius. You are...so handsome...so...amazing. I know I may not have you like this for long...you must have so many that want you."

His gaze hardened and turned cold for a moment, as if she had insulted him," Shut up, girl, you are at my side for several weeks now and still you have no idea who I am or what I stand for. But do tell me, have you seen one other girl at my side?"

While his hand kept her chin up, forcing her to look at him, his other hand rose and he showed one finger.

She flinched when he turned cold then grew alarmed. Had she ruined things? Made him angry? Would he turn from her? She tried to draw away, hiding from him. Trying to regain some sense of pride.

He kept her close, the chin in his hand now," No... look at me!"

"I know what I see...you are powerful, smart, handsome...you can have your pick. And you deserve the best...I did not say you were indiscriminate...but I know one day...you will find someone...not...me."
There was a sheen of tears in her eyes. "And that is okay...I will still stay...and just...remember that you did want me once.”

"Look at me," his voice lowering and his eyes grew a bit more soft. "Tell me what you see..." He gave her a loving look. Any sign of the earlier coldness left his eyes," I've been looking for you..."

"Perfection... my hero." Her eyes gazed into his own a moment before her lashes shadowed her eyes. "Me? I am nobody....remember? The unwanted one...."

What is this Lucius, is she playing a game with you, making you to want her badly? But thats not a problem, right? Since you already did…
Tell her that marvelous plan of yours, go on…

Lucius blinked, but only once, his eyes still on hers, his hand still holding her chin, his other hand still showing one finger pointing up…

Want me....please...want me.
Girl, what are you doing? This will only bring you pain. But she needed him, she knew it, the knowledge burned within her. Only at his side would she ever feel complete.

Her hand moved to his face haltingly, as if she were almost afraid. Then she traced fingers along his jaw line... feeling just that hint of stubble. She wet her lips then swallowed. "You....you cause my stomach to feel odd."

He threw away all his thoughts, all his considerations and said before his lips locked on hers," Dammit girl, I want to marry you one day..."

The blood pounded in her ears as she heard his words but his lips captured hers before she could answer. His kiss was like him, bold, confident, masterful. Her own was almost innocent by contrast. She explored his lips as if it were the first time she had ever kissed anyone.

Marry... me? Her head was spinning from those words as much as the kiss. He wanted her...forever...as his mate? I must be dreaming...maybe they killed me when I challenged the boss...and this is heaven. Like I would go to heaven…
But surely...this is heaven. Her hands clung to his shoulders, then one cupped the back of his neck.

Lucius, you idiot, you are playing your cards way too fast. What are you going to do next to her, ask her to make babies?


His kiss was a magician's trick, surely enchanting her. She knew she should feel fear yet all she felt was excitement. His chest was muscled, but his flesh was warm and soft. His heat burned her, flames she would gladly drown in…

Her own skin felt like satin against his own, soft and cool. Her hair fell nearly to her waist, the dark strands teasing at his arms. Her lips parted for him, allowing him to teach her how he wished to kiss.

Lucius was entranced by the silken feel of the woman's hair against his arms and her ‘answer’ to his kiss felt like an electric charge from her lips all the way to the most inner part of his being, his soul.
Cut it out Lucius, you have none…

She broke the kiss, her breathing rapid, her heart pounding hard enough to be felt against his chest. The silver eyes found his, an unexpected innocence lurking within.

"You're someone to me." His tone of voice wasn't even flirtatious. But with that single touch, the atmosphere charged with sensual heat.

His words made her look at him again, a long of such intense longing in that innocent stare. "That is why I would die for you, Lucius."
His fingers inched farther along the smoothness of her skin, deeper, lower while he said," Yet, I'll do my best to keep you alive, Yaassima."

Her eyes were wide... before they suddenly closed as she hid her face in his neck. Her nails kneaded at his back, her cheeks flushing as he touched her. She did not want him to stop, yet she wondered if her poor heart could take any more.
Sensing her reactions, Lucius decided to continue with what he was doing.

Yea right, as if you could still call a halt to this. He didn't stop and while he whispered a few reassuring words near her ear.

Warm breath hit the shell of her ear and she gasped softly against his neck. The words did not seem to truly matter, just the tone of his voice and the way he touched her.

She trusted him, even in this. Perhaps she had been abused, but it was clear she had no experience in lovemaking and the chance that he would hurt her feelings or made her recall bad experiences was rather small.
Dammit Lucius, just show her, make her enjoy and make sure you do too.

Her cheeks flushed, the silver eyes sparkled in the candle light. "Lucius...I want to be yours..."

At that he asked for her lips, and gave her such a kiss with such passion, that the effect seemed to have transported her into another world for a brief moment.

Her knees grew weak, her body sagging against his own, only his strength supporting her as pleasure washed through her. He made her head spin, he made her crave him like a drug. Nothing mattered, only that this male wanted her.

He swept her up into his arms and carried her to his bed, the place where he had wanted her all along.

[Admin]

She found herself resting on his chest after, both of them breathing heavily, their hearts pounding.
"Why... why did you believe I would be scared of you?"

His hand stroked her over her arm, and while he was feeling incredible, the question suddenly hit on him. His tone was soft," Because I assumed you had been through a few things."

"They tried...well...one did." She couldn't seem to stop touching him. Her fingers stroked his chest, his shoulders.

This time Lucius just let her talking, perhaps he would learn more about her past now. The fact he may just have made her pregnant seemed to bother him less.

"See.....I was thought of as tainted. You know...not one of them ever claimed me as their daughter...it was as if my mother magically got pregnant to them...but I knew....one of them had raped her."
She got quiet a moment and went on. "Last year...some of them started noticing that I was no longer a child. I heard some of the elders warn them...that I was tainted...dirty...forbidden. but...for one man...that just seemed to make him determined. He came at night...offered me a new dress...I just...wanted to feel pretty....”

Lucius turned very silent.

"Then...he tried to kiss me...to touch me...he had a blade...it was in my hands before I was aware...and I cut him....his stomach...his...insides...were...spilling out...it took four of them to get me off him..."

"Good girl..." he whispered to himself while he continued stroking her.

"I was blamed...they said I did it...I lured him...promised him my body...and then turned on him when he resisted...I was...beaten pretty badly...but no one tried after."

"And then they locked you up? Or how did you ended up in that cage?"

“No...I was always in that cage...from the time my mother disappeared on." She shrugged.

"Yaassima? You want me to kill them? They are not on this... terrain." That statement seemed clearly connected with the so called Code.

She peeked up at him. He was offering to kill her enemies for her. What did that mean? Was that good? "Maybe one day...we could do it...together? I mean...I want them to know...why. Lucius...I was only about four when I was caged...and treated like I was some sort of animal."

He turned his face to her, looking a bit downwards doing so," They have no idea with who they messed. We will, together." He stroked her cheek," You’re not an animal to me, but you will be mine, as a wife."

That made her look up at him again and he could see that she was having trouble believing this. "I...Lucius, why me? I do not have much to offer you."

"On the contrary, my treasure, you have everything I need. There is just one thing though."

"What is that?"

“No one may know what we are, only a few here in the Center know about my heritage. We'll be living two lives and I want people to trust us at all times, even when they don't have reason to it. One tiefling is not likely to be trusted, but when they appear in pair, or groups.." he didn't finish his sentence.
"What does that mean...for us? Do you wish me to leave? To stay...hidden? " She just seems confused, her shoulders sloping a bit.

"I just want you to keep silent about it, besides your eyes there is nothing that may betray what you are. Just like me."

She reaches up and traces the markings. "Some will know."

"Sometimes we will put hoods on,..." A shrug.

She nods. "I have no reason to brag about it...it has been a curse."

"It is... yet it shouldn't be... my love."

The love word makes her blink. She watches him a moment, as if trying to judge his sincerity. Then... he sees a very shy smile before she hides her face again.

"Don't be so shy now, you slept in my arms, nude, for weeks." one side of his mouth lifted up a bit.

"I like sleeping with you...I did not know...what I would do...if we were here for you to...find...companionship."

"As of now, you will..." he grins some.

She blinked at him, he heard her growl. "You...are ...mine. Any other woman touches you and I will remove her hand and present it to you as a gift!"

Lucius chuckled softly and with the tone he used when playing merchant he said," Deal!"

...Lucius,… you lucky son of a bitch…

[Admin]

Chapter 4

Gypsies


Just outside a small village near Gulashir...

Sunset had fallen past the horizon since a while now. A black haze had fixed itself over the sky, making the stars go dim. The moon glowed, creating a gloomy look over the sky, but not for much longer now as she too started to hide behind the seductive veils of gossamer clouds. Soon, the absence of light would be so complete that not even shadows could survive. The heating of the sun during the day had slown considerably and now the air had such a clean, fresh, pure smell but it was cooling down tremendously.

Not a problem however for the two beings between the rocks...

"Treasure, time to get your revenge," Lucius whispered as he leaned over his new girlfriend. And when her eyes flew open, the stormy silver on him before he could even gently wake her up, Lucius wondered if Yaassima actually ever slept.


Yaassima had obeyed his request that she try to rest as they waited for nightfall, but for her their position was too insecure, too dangerous. She called upon the years of conditioning, of always needing to be ready for some sort of abuse. So when her companion moved even slightly, her eyes were open and her hand was on a blade.


A few days ago they had left the underground city right after Lucius received news from one of his spies about the whereabouts of Yaassima’s abusers. The ‘topic’ had never left his mind, just as well as the look in her eyes at their very first meeting. Now, several months later and after having heard a part of her story, he knew he should have killed those gypsies that day, but he also realized he hadn’t been prepared. Now he was, and he would grant his girl part in the pleasure. As a matter of fact, it probably would be her pleasure all the more.

He did this for her and all the others of their kin treated like she has been treated.

She was his now, but without being his property, and he wouldn’t lift a hand against her unless she betrayed him. Something which he highly doubted. With freeing her and the way he treated her, she had become first a loyal companion, and later on also his mistress. And he wanted even more...

A few weeks ago he finally had given into his instincts and... other needs. And with it he had taken her virginity. Something that first surprised him since he always assumed she probably also had been sexually abused. He was grateful that that was not the case and that he had been able to show her the secrets of physical devotion, a whole other side of life to her maybe...

[Admin]

Yaassima's mind had slowed. The past weeks had been near heaven for her. The two of them, alone in the underground escape. She did not understand why he had chosen her, what he saw in her. But she was determined to make the most out of this season of pleasure. Two of a kind, she thought as she watched him check his weapons.

He was doing this for her. She realized it and appreciated it. She would have her vengeance. She would show her abusers the pain that they inflicted upon others. Her face would be their last sight before she sent them to Culnul's realm. He was giving her a gift, one that went beyond jewels or dresses. He was giving her freedom. And she would trade it all in a heartbeat to be truly his. Sick, girl...really sick. Yes, he is good to you and yes, he gives you pleasure. But love is not for the likes of you...remember who you are...nobody.

The voice in her head made her tense up and flinch and she pushed it aside, pushing that sting of pain away. She called upon that core of steel that had allowed her to survive and let all around her go cold.


Lucius briefly looked up while coating his weapons with poison, a precaution that would increase their chance of success by at least fifty percent. His eyes met hers and he nodded to indicate he was nearly ready.

After been in his presence during the past weeks, the girl he named Yaassima, had transformed from a slave into a worthy companion. Often dressed in sexy, skin-tight clothes instead of the filthy performance rags, or whatever those gypsies may have called it, her appearance had truly changed. He had cleaned her, looked after her scars and fed her.

But he knew it would take a lot more, he knew an abused and exploited girl like Yaassima needed time. He wondered how she would evolve and whether she would ever get rid of her past fully. Right now he assumed she wouldn’t. There probably would always remain a piece of that, as it usually was with traumatic experiences. Right now she was pretty feral and he foresaw that would never go completely away.

A wicked and naughty thought invaded and captivated his mind for a moment. Actually he didn’t want Yaassima to lose her feral side fully, cause if she ever lost it completely… that might also have implications for whatever happened in their bedroom. Right now she appeared being rather greedy, passionately wild, and filled with desire… all contributing to hot and steamy necking and lovemaking.

Cut it out Lucius, before your infernal instincts mess up what you are about to do.

The dark haired man got up, managing to keep all those thoughts within and keeping the facial expression he used when he was doing business. He glanced over his shoulder in the direction of the gypsy camp before looking back at his girlfriend. This was business and personal.

“You ready?” he whispered.

Yaassima looked up at him and rose slowly. Her blades were already at hand and she had given him all the information she could remember about her clan. The men would stand as guard through the night and in the early hours of the morning. They would not sleep until the women and children roused and began daily chores. There was just the smallest twinge of guilt for what they were about to do...execution of the men would leave the woman and children at risk. But they would be quickly absorbed by another clan, perhaps even valued more. Other clans were not like this one. Other clans valued their blood.

[Admin]

When they arrived near the camp last night, Lucius had counted a dozen wagons and three tents in the muddy terrain, and he had moved invisible between them. Yaassima was left behind as he had been uncertain how well she would be able to control her feelings of burning hatred, and that ardent desire of revenge the moment she saw the camp. Lucius had taken his time and counted the men as his new girl only wanted to murder those. Every last one of them.


By the time he had made his round, he knew they were all there, all eleven of them among the exotic and flamboyantly dressed people. There were very few females and fewer children still. Other than the gypsies he had met before, who often camped near cities making and selling goods, who moved across the countryside in spring and summer to pick up seasonal work, this group was specialized in fairs and carnivals. Three wagons contained animals and the cage out of which he had liberated Yaassima, now harbored a black panther.

How ironic…


Lucius looked at Yaassima and nodded before completely fading from sight, darkness whirling around him. He was no stranger to darkness as he was born with the infravision that was so typical to his kind, endowing him with the power to see in gradients of heat rather than light, and as sharp as a human’s daytime vision. He started to move towards the circle of wagons and tents, the first guard coming into sight…

[Admin]

… Yaassima too faded into shadows, her black clothing and the cape making it easy when combined with the weeks of training by her new lover. The sounds of the night seemed to still, everything seemed to slow down. The first guard was in sight, and her man stepped from the shadows in front of him as a distraction.


The gypsy male had been drinking, sipping from a bottle, bored with the usual night's work. So when a dark form stepped from the shadows, he first believed it to be one of his own. It was only when moonlight shone on a handsome masked face that the danger became apparent and his hand went for his blade.

"What the hells..." The gypsy male didn't have time to finish the words before the girl stepped out from the shadows directly behind him. Her blade sliced through his throat like butter, his words becoming a gurgle. She watched as he fell to the ground at her feet, seeing the look of recognition in his gaze before his eyes dimmed of life.

When she looked up, she saw Lucius had faded from sight. A male’s voice not far behind her sounded,” Hey yo…”

Her flickering blades ready in her hands, Yaassima jumped and flipped around. She was only just in time to witness how her lover, sheathed in wispy shadow, reemerged on the gypsy’s left side and pierced his adversary’s larynx, the blade puncturing through man’s vocal folds and preventing him from raising the alarm. In a fountain of blood, he sank to his knees gurgling and no longer able to further express any word right before collapsing not far from Yaassima’s feet. A puddle of blood expanded itself through the grass around the body’s head.

All the scene missed was a ribbon… such a gift to her.


With the guards now eliminated, the pair sneaked into the camp and they passed Yaassima’s former prison. Lucius looked from the panther in it to Yaassima.

Her eyes found the cage, the panther within it pacing restlessly. She knew what it felt, she could feel the intensity of its rage and its despair. She shook her head, knowing it would turn on them if freed and needing to focus on the task at hand. She pointed to the first caravan...flicking her fingers three times. The first caravan would be off-duty guards, resting, eating or relaxing.

The two of them stepped forward, cloaked in shadows as she tested the handle on the door. She pointed to the trip wires and her quick fingers disabling the trap. Slowly the door swung open just enough for her to peek inside. One man was sleeping in the far corner. One...was eating a meal at a small table while his companion shuffled a deck of cards. The card player...she recognized as one who took great pleasure in her torment.

She nodded to Lucius and signaled their placements...the smoke bomb was rolled inside. They were in place, moving swiftly through the shadows before the men really had time to react. Lucius blade had the one eating choking on his own blood as his throat was slit, making the meal the man’s last meal.

Yaassima's thrown blade hit the sleeping man square in the chest before he even fully awoke...and as the metal sap connected to the back of the card player's neck. It was over before the fog even lifted.

She watched as Luc secured this particular caravan as she bound the card player's hands and feet with corded wire, one of the men's dirty undergarments wadded up and stuffed into his mouth to be used as a gag.


“This one is special I take it?” her lover whispered as he looked from her down to the unconscious man. He placed his foot on the body like a hunter who had just managed to tip the scales in his favor. And frankly thus far this really went smooth. Almost half of the men down and it hadn’t cost him any effort. But he was careful. They were not there yet.

As Lucius cleaned his blade and re-coated it with poison, his ice blue eyes shifted from the man to Yaassima,” They say you hunt a panther with your brain, a giant with your feet, a dragon with your guts, a lion with your heart...” he showed that devilish smile as he paused a moment,” … and I say you hunt your abusers with your hatred.”

Pushing his foot off their victim, Lucius walked over to Yaassima and caressed her cheek,” This is personal, not business. Though understand this is not my typical line of work, this is for you, my treasure.” Without waiting for answer and amidst the bloodshed, the tiefling pressed his lips on the other tiefling's. The kiss although intense, didn’t last long. As he pulled back his eyes gleamed in the dim candle light his scent... pure since Lucius never used any odor or perfume during jobs, reached Yaassima’s nose. The warm smooth hand left her skin and a black leather glove was put on again.

Then he glanced between Yaassima and the unconscious man again,” Feeding him to the panther now, are you?” Was that some sort of smile at the left corner of his lips?

[Admin]

Yaassima gazed at the still form of one of her tormentors and shrugged. “I hope he doesn’t poison the cat.”

Her eyes gleamed silver in the low light, fastening on his face. She straightened her shoulders, showing no pity for the carnage they were causing. A lamp provided the oil and he watched as she broke a candle, setting it in the middle of the pool and lighting the wick. In a quarter of an hour, this caravan would be engulfed in flames. She quickly stripped the place of valuables, pocketing jewlery and gems, before motioning him to exit.

The next caravan was for women and children. She wedged a piece of wood in the door that would prevent it from being opened, then looked over at him, motioning to the next. She flicked her fingers twice, signaling that there should be two men inside.


Lucius showed a half smile and signalled to her he was doing another approach on this one. By what it looked like he was about to do… a more daring and challenging one. Even in their relative short time together, Yaassima had learned Lucius was possessed of an urge to experiment, or to show there was more than just one succesful approach to achieve a goal. By this time it should have dawned on her he was some sort of boss in this Circle organisation where patronage, cronyism and ‘secure tenure’ didn’t seem to be the rule. Skill, talent and ability was what mattered and Lucius seemed both a natural as well as trained.


Just before he walked out of his natural habitat and stepped into the flickering, amber light of the two torches, Lucius had pulled on his hood to cover an even greater part of his face. Seven steps away from the wagon Lucius stopped, his hands seemingly empty and for a moment he may have looked vulnerable to Yaassima.
He glanced over his shoulder, knowing she would watch his back right before his ice blue eyes locked on the shuttered door. A corner of his mouth was lifted before he with complete confidence bridged the distance towards the step right under the door. He didn’t even bother to get on it and just knocked on the woodwork. He distorted his voice some and when he spoke it came close to that ‘Southern’ antiquated accent she had known so long.

“Yo, Loiza, Yoska… cen ya help’us with dea pantha’s cage man?”

It may have frightened Yaassima how close Lucius’ voice was to one of her tormenters, one who had already died under her blade. And what even may have stricken her more was the fact he seemed to know their names, and even knew who was in that particular wagon.


How did he… ?? Then a smile crossed over her face. He must have been preparing.

(Author's note : Up to here the story was written. I will one day finish this part and see if I can continue it myself.)

[Sponsored content]