Spirits of the Earth

OOC: This thread takes place after this one. (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=14767.msg136844#msg136844)

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Meet me by the seaside town of Cerenis before the full moon if you want your child back alive. We'll speak of our demands then. And come alone.

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That was all the note had said. Aside from that, the day had started like any other day. The weather was warm, the sky, casting the world in a golden glow, and it seemed just about everyone was smiling. It was that time of year for Dylanna Swinden to head back out to sea to make more foreign purchases and to solidify those alliances on trade. She had already sent men ahead to prepare the ship, and made the arrangements to have her manor here taken care of in her absence.

But none of that mattered now, as she found herself staring down, wide eyed and open mouthed at the scrap of paper the words had been scribbled upon.
Her son..
Her son had been kidnapped.

And it was only in a single piece of paper that held the words of her greatest known fear, and the truth that it was real.
He was taken.
Gone.

She had come home from her day of political banter as normal; a necessity at the game she had to play as a merchant. So when she came home to a completely empty house; no laughter, not a servant, not even the barking yips of the new pup... chills ran through her blood like ice. And upon finding and reading the piece of paper, she dropped to her knees ad began to sob.

She had to get him back..
She had to get to Cerenis.


~~~~~
"Miss Swinden, might I remind you, your island acquaintances might become upset if you delay this meeting any further. They know you have a life and business to run in Arca, but the letters have already been forwarded to them, your ship already ready to sail.."

"Yes, well my plans have been changed," Dylanna told him flatly, her green eyes broiling at his words. Her visor fumbled in his musings, and sighed with a shake of his head, fat fingers now curling around the list as he adjusted his spectacles to continue, but Dylanna stopped him, a hand gripping over the list.

"Just inform them of my sincerest apologies andthat my visit will merely be delayed, not cancelled. ANd hopefully for no less than a few weeks."

"Less than a few weeks!?" the man found himself sputtering over his own breath as his eyes went large as he stared after her. "And where, praytell, do you think you are going anyways? Some sort of mid-life vacation or-"

Dylanna turned to him, steeling her emotions and merely snapped, "I'd hardly call this a vacation. And my trip is of no concern to you. I can update you when I've returned to Arca." And she stepped into her carriage, the door slamming shut before she peered out and forced a smile to Goeffry, her visor, and patted him lightly upon the hand.

"Do not worry yourself, we have good relations with the islanders. And I'll be back long after the full moon!" And Dylanna waved him off and gestured to her valet. At her orders, he snapped the reins for the horses and the carriage lurched forward, barely making it halfway across town when her carriage came to a halt.  Frowning, Dylanna peered forward.

"What's the matter? Why aren't we going?"

And her valet turned back to her, his face white as a ghost.
"There seems to be a fire m'am, and.. and a fight!"

Dylanna furrowed her brow. "What do you mean a -" and before she could even glance out the window, an arrow came sailing directly beside the carriage as her eyes widened, breath catching within her throat. And soon the smells of smoke were overwhelming her, and she tried calling up to her valet.. "Percy, Percy, please do find a way to go around it-"

but then an arrow sunk straight into his head, and the fight began to spill all around the cart, just as a dirty man grabbed onto the side of her passenger side door and grinned at her like the  devil himself. His body was soot black in dirt, as blood remained splattered across his face. And the only thing htat split the dirt was that smile, and even his rotting teeth were whiter htan his filthy flesh.

"Oh, well ain't you a pretty catch?" the man purred, and even as Dylanna reared back from the open window, she coudl still smell the man's putrid, drunken breath.

Dylanna furrowed her brow. "What is the meaning of this? What do you think you are doing?"

"What do you mean what do I think? Just paying back the Soot Wolves a little ten fold, to let them know that we're marking this territory, and as far as I know, you've been off limits to them; and now I see why." His eyes roamed over her body as Dylanna grit her teeth. "Come along with me precious, lest you want to end up in pieces," he said, drawing out a bloodied blade, then gestured to his men and they all formed a wall around her.

"This turf's going to take a new claim. The Soot Wolves are history, they'll have nothing against the Mountain cats."

"Gods, what the hell do I care about some street war?" Dylanna spat, already growing impatient with this, and before the man knew it, she socked him hard across the face. and he stood there a second, blinking  in surprise, then laughing at her reaction, before Dylanna moved forward, throwing the door open, and bashing him in the side.
She only had a few seconds before the other men would be upon her as she reached for her sword at her hip, only to find another already pointed at her face.

"Drop the blade, or I cut off your clothes,"t he man threatened crudely, laughing through his teeth. His beard appeared almost as if in wisps of smoke about his face, and his eyes, as pale green as the ocean as he looked down upon her. "And don't think I don't mean it. I've got a pack of hungry cats who would just love to get their dirty paws on such a lovely lady. Now.." he gestured, his expression growing more serious, even as his cheeks remaine da ripe, rosey red. "Keep your hands where I can see them."

But the dirty look Dylanna was giving him only made the man chuckle, that was, until she spat in his face, and while he was off guard, she smacked his blade away, though the man was quick to parry, and sooon she found herself dancing, sword to sword, across the fiery streets.

"Ah, pretty good swordsman ship," the man said with a wry grin, but pushed forward, with a force that felt like the man must've been built with iron, as Dylanna gasped, and receded back against another powerful swing that struck her across the shoulder, tearing open that side of her garb.

"Ah, Miss Swinden," he said, tsking, which also made it look as if he were wriggling his mutton chops. "It looks like i've marked not only your clothes, but your skin as well.. perhaps I'll strike a little less harshly next time?"

Dylanna felt her blood broil at his claims, and tore her sword off and against his, before strikin at him again and again, only to find herself with another sharp slash to her opposing shoulder, with a cut far deeper, and a mark much larger.

"Oh.. is that blood?" the man asked, toyingly.

Dylanna bared her teeth. "I haven't the time for this," and smacked his sword away, iron sparking to iron before she kicked him away, only to find his blade slashing across her skirt, ripping a nice big gash clean up the side of her thigh and hip, and she found her dress now hanging half off, and blood stung out from her wounds.

Gritting her teeth, she still remained on the defensive as she squared her shoulders off against the man, all the while his 'cat pack' began to loom in ever closer to the fight.

"Now, now, now, lovely, drop the sword lest you want me to cut you down the middle." he said, eyes dancing, and Dylanna felt herself tense and broil over his words, even as her breasts heaved against the sharp sword that was now resting in between them.

"What do you want?" she growled, and the man chuckled.

"Oh, didn't you get the note?"

Cats! Bloody cats! Damn them. They had been a minor annoyance. Nothing really to fret over. They had a few little tussles, but nothing remotely serious. Why take a small gang seriously when his Wolves ran every major deal and scheme in and around Arca. They were even planning on expanding throughout all of Kia's Court and hopefully soon after to the surrounding provinces. Rufus and Ryk both, were especially interested in Summervale and Whitesands. But now this. A street war, and totally unexpected. It seemed every one of those damn feline rogues were in the street causing havoc. His Wolves knew how to handle themselves, and as soon as he got word, he sent a guild wide call to arms. They were weapons free to kill every mangy cat they could get their teeth into.

He had killed three of the foolish cats himself already, and was converging on the site of the major activity when a Shadow Wolf brought him news that this was all smoke. The Cats had a target. Dylanna Swinden. Damn it. Perhaps staying away from her and her deals had been safer for him, but it seems it was not safer for her. With enough time and observation, a dark organization like his, or the Mountain Cats, would draw the conclusion that Dylanna was somehow connected to the Soot Wolves. Well he swallowed the surge of emotion he felt at her being in danger, and his anger at his own foolish mistake.

"I want every Cat dead. Every wolf is to stop whatever jobs and plans they are working on and hunt them down. I want them wiped out. Wiped out YESTERDAY! Spread the word." Rufus was barely able to contain his anger. The Shadow Wolf was a bit put off, Rufus was hardly ever seen with any emotion, especially not anger. After a stunned moment the Shadow Wolf sped off to complete the assigned task.

Not long after the Red Wolf and the two score Wolves he had brought with him were converging on the carriage under siege. The Valet was dead and several of the cats were taunting the bloodied Dylanna Swinden. A quick whistle and a few hand signals had his Wolves taking up their individual roles. Crossbows fired, daggers were thrown, and cats in the area dropped to the ground. Seemed they didn't always land on their feet. Rufus had brought a few Blood Wolves, hand picked by Zahi for this mission, and they were quickly engaging the men that had surrounded Lady Swinden. Rufus did an acrobatic flip, with lots of flare, off the top of the carriage, landing between Dylanna and the lead assailant.

"It seems you little kittens don't understand they size of my pack," Rufus taunted the leader, "we're the Soot Wolves, and Arca is ours. You could have conducted quiet business and been overlooked, or even have made a partnership or joined up with us. But instead you chose hostility," The Red Wolf sneered and spit at the mans feet, "now you have drawn the ire of the Alpha Wolf. I AM THE RED WOLF AND I DECLARE ALL CATS LIVES FORFEIT!" With his shout the forty wolves he brought, plus the others that were there ahead of them, all let out howls. The Cats were outnumbered, three to one, and fighting didn't last long. His own fight took the longest as he always insisted nobody interfere.

He used a technique that he had shown his new adversary Owl, just a week or so ago. A toed stone flying at his opponent followed by a throwing dagger. But Canis Rufus knew this opponent was more adept at fighting and followed that first dagger with three more. The flurry of blades flying at him right after all the howls had unsettled him, caused the Cat to be a bit off his guard, but he was experienced. The stone bounced off his shoulder as he didn't even attempt to deflect it. He dodged the first dagger and knocked the next two away, but he wasn't fast enough to totally escape the last one, and it drew a deep slash across his left cheek. Short sword and long knife in hand, Rufus was right in the mans face, blades dancing up and down the mans rapier.

Such speed and skill with his narrow blade. Nobody he'd ever fought handled their rapier with such skill. Not since his mentor Defalcat, in Zantaric. Defalcat! How could it be? He stabbed him in the back and left him for dead. It couldn't be possible. But it was, he recognized those eyes, and that scar across his brow. He was even filthier than he had been when Theo was tagging along to learn the trade. Defalcat called it cat burgling. The parallels were so childish, you'd think some play write came up with it. The quick instant of realization, of recognition, was just enough distraction to allow Defalcat a moment to score a hit. The slash across his left forearm was deep, and almost enough to make him drop his long knife. Defalcat obviously noticed the sleight advantage, and pressed it. Rufus was on the defensive, gritting his teeth against the onslaught. Parrying quickly and stepping back away from Defalcat. That's when he got an idea. A good distraction.

"I think your hands were faster when you were wearing these gloves Master Def," Rufus followed the words with his signature half grin. Defalcat had that quick moment of realization himself, and Rufus knowing it was going to happen, was ready to take advantage of it. An underhand swing with his long knife knocked the rapier wide, and he thrust his short sword into Defalcat's gut.

"I've never had the pleasure of killing a man twice." Rufus slowly lowered his old mentor to the ground, kicking away the rapier. He looked into his eyes, and just as he was falling unconcious from shock, he mouthed one word.

"Theo?"

Rufus turned to the nearest Wolf, ignoring the just rescued Dylanna Swinden. "My sword stays in him, but someone give him a potion to keep him alive. And I want Chora here as soon as she can be. I have questions for this cat, and she'll need to keep him alive with the blade in place."

It was a good thing she was ignored, too; for all of the fanfare and blood and bodies spilled, she hadn't the time for this. Not yesterday, not today. She had to get to Samuel, and the moment she noticed all eyes glued upon their leader, she tore away, grabbing onto one of the horses still chained to it's reins and began to desperately unlatch it..

It was only then she realized the pack of wolves began to look her way, and her eyes glanced all around them, wondering why, as she hesitated at the unlatchings, why not a single one lifted a blade or weapon her way. Not that she cared. Perhaps she'd look into it later, for now...
She grunted, and the horse was free, but she had a hard time keeping the horse steady. It was terrified and wanted to flee.

OOC: Sorry it's short but yeah XD might not have time to post again until tomorrow so just doin a few quick posts this morning :T
and I like the touch the one dude Theo knows XD nice

"I don't think it's wise for you to be rushing off so quickly," Rufus said, turning to the Lady Swinden. "The cut on your leg looks especially painful, and your clothing is barely hanging on." He stepped up to her and calmly grabbed hold of the horses throatlash and turned its head to him. With a few shushing sounds, a soothing touch from his hand, and a strong steady gaze, he had the horse calm. A quick signal with his hands and a Wolf was running up to hand him two health potions. Without words he demonstrated, holding out his arm so Dylanna could see the gash he drank the potion. The flesh knitted itself back together in moments, and didn't even have the pale color of new skin. He held the other potion out for her.

"You should stick around Lady Swinden. When I interrogate this little kitten, he will not have any secrets. It could prove valuable to you."

Dylanna stared coldly at the potion, even after watching the miracle of it's effects. She didn't trust bandits, (especially such filthy ones); and even more so those that dare use her proper name, as if they knew her. It grated on her nerves, amongst other things, as she gripped onto the horse's throatlash, practically tearing it from his hands.

"Please, I haven't the time for more games!" she growled, but then upon hearing his words, she stopped and looked down at the man on the ground and her lips open, moving with hesitation as if to speak, but then she set her jaw, looking back up into Rufus's eyes. Her eyes were wild and fearful, so torn between finding more answers from this man who had muttered something in regards to his connections to the terrible letter she had received; and to just rushing off as fast as she could to Cerenis.

But setting her jaw, she found her eyes hardening, though the faint glimmer of determination, the fire within her to find her son pulling her through as she asked, "And if I go with you, can I be promised it will be quick and I would be safe? I can't even spare an hour on that low life. I'd rather wish him dead." But even she wanted answers so terribly, and hoped to god she wasn't showing as much fear as she was feeling to be surrounded by so many bandits, the flames still roaring all around them.

But then she laughed at herself and turned away, "What am I talking about- all you bandits are the same! Why should I trust you more than the dying man on the cobblestone? I.. " and here she hesitated, the fear returning to her eyes, the desperation, before she found her hardness again just as she turned her gaze back to Rufus, keeping a firm hand on the horse and her blade. "I haven't the time for this, or even had the time what just happened but a moment ago. I have to be out of the city before-"  then she recalled the letter and her tongue went still.

She had to go alone. She couldn't tell anyone what was going on..
but to stick around for the interrogation. She chewed into her lower lip, chewed and swallowed back her words before narrowing her gaze upon him.
"How swiftly can you interrogate?" It would be nice to fight fire with fire against these men...
but would it be worth it? Shouldn't she just be rushing off to rescue her son..
Gods... Samuel..

But for now, she steeled herself, playing the role she had always been used to in front of such tough men; and she was not about to let some other bandit step int he way.
"And if you try to do this to mock me, to trick me.." and she raised her blade, pointing it directly at him. "I swear to God, not even hell itself will keep me from spilling your blood onto these streets cause I will gut you from your throat to your balls."
And she meant it- The Gods knew she did.

The thoughts that ran through his mind were so very complicated, and attached to too many identities. This woman. This woman that made him feel. That made him consider that word he scoffed at and spat upon. That foul word. Love. What was he to do with this woman? Here she was, ragged and bleeding. Put in danger because he had kept her safe. And now she was threatening him. What was he to do? Leaving her free from the interference of the Wolves had probably helped make her as successful as she was. Otherwise many deals would have been blocked or sullied by the dark underworld of Arca. And Gods she was beautiful. Even bloodied and ragged it seemed Mother Kia had blessed her with eternal spring time. She was so strong, standing there, clutching that blade threateningly. He knew how much cuts like that hurt. And she was losing a lot of blood. If she did not drink the potion she would surely pass out. He wouldn't let her die, but she should drink the damned potion. And Gods she really was beautiful. Fyarion could swoop down to carry him away and Rufus wouldn't notice, so distracted by those green eyes of hers.

"And if you try to do this to mock me, to trick me.." and she raised her blade, pointing it directly at him. "I swear to God, not even hell itself will keep me from spilling your blood onto these streets 'cause I will gut you from your throat to your balls." He could tell that she truly meant it, but the statement was ridiculous, and quite hilarious.

"Ha ha ha ha ha! Lady Dylanna, if I wanted to mock you or trick you, you would not know it was happening. I could take everything from you and you would not be able to resist me. I am THE Red Wolf. I RULE Arca from the shadows," Rufus sneered at the Lady Swinden, "The only reason you hold any power in this city is that I owe your late father the greatest debt I've ever owed a man. As long as I rule the Soot Wolves, his legacy is safe. You, and your little son Sam, are safe," he leered at her lustfully then, "strike me down and you will no longer have my protection. Not that you could. There are few in this city that can handle a blade better than I, and I'd kill them from the shadows rather than face them."

He gently pushed her blade aside and offered the potion to her again. "Why are you in such a rush anyhow? You are clearly safe now, and if you don't stop the bleeding soon, you won't have enough blood to stay awake. As for how quickly I can interrogate, you'll see me work quite a miracle in that area. When a body is magically healing around a blade that continues to be turned in the wound, a person usually is quick to give up all their secrets. Now drink the potion Dylan, or do I have to wait for you to faint and then make your unconscious form choke it down?"

Dylanna's eyes narrowed poisonously upon him, not daring to drop her blade.
"Do not speak to me as if you know me," she sneered. "You can address me as Miss Swinden." And the words came out in a bit of a hiss, and those green eyes narrowed even sharper.
"Those men have stolen something very important to me," she informed him, but she wasn't goign to say what, but the dangerous look in her eyes might have given it away. "And I would kill you and all of your wolves to get it back." Then to his chest, she pointed her sword, directly at his heart, her eyes glancing down at the potion, then up into his eyes. "I'd rather drink your spit than trust the likes of you and your potions." SHe knew what men like him did, and the look he was giving to her only confirmed it.

"Stand aside. You can interrogate that man on your own. I need to get to Cerenis."
To her, the cuts would heal, in time.. she could look at them properly later. The last thing she wanted was help from him. And what on earth was he going on about protection? As if she'd believe him. Even if some 'mountain cat' had spat out the same. What were they going on about anyways?  And besides, he had no powers over her, she was a mother desperate to have her son back....
Yes.. if she had to..s he'd kill this damn wolf, too, and the look in her eyes was laced with promise, her fingers and knuckles white as they gripped tightly about her sword.


"Now, out of my way before you become as red as your name. Anyone that trifles with me on this day will be killed."

Oh Kia, give me patience.

Rufus knew this attitude. There was no reasoning with Lanna when she was in this kind of mood. He quickly stowed the potion in his belt, and then with lightning speed drew his long knife into his right hand and a hidden dagger into his left. He knocked her sword out wide with numbing force and closed the gap between them all in one smooth movement. At the first sign of his actions, no less than three wolves had trained there crossbows on the Lady Swinden. Long knife to her throat, his face an inch from hers he spoke calmly, but with just barely evident frustration in his voice. His bright blue eyes pierced into her soul as he made the situation clear.

"Obviously you are not well versed in anatomy. You are losing blood quickly from that wound in your leg. If I let you leave you will be dead in minutes, and your son will be orphaned. Without you around I'll still be sure to protect him, but the direction of his education will not be one you would choose. Now drink the damn potion woman, before I force it down your throat."

He took a step back from her and signaled to his Wolves. They stepped up and took her sword, no need to let her try and fight in that condition. She probably would try to anyway, though she most likely wouldn't be able to stand much longer. Her elevated heart rate was pumping her blood out quickly. He returned his weapons to their places and tossed the potion to the nearest wolf, who immediately held it out for her to take. Just then Chora made her appearance on the scene.

"I hope you've recovered enough since Torak," Rufus said to the healer, walking toward her, "I have a feeling this one is going to require a bit more."

"I feared as much," Chora said, looking tired just at the thought of this work, "lets get started then." Today Chora drank six potions in quick succession. Red, blue, green, purple, gold, then white, they went down fast and a glow began to emanate from her as usual, today it was bright pink. She took up her stance, feet spread, head bowed, arms extended toward Defalcat, palms facing out. She began to mutter her magic incantation and the sea foam green glow started in her hands, then shot in a beam, connecting her to the impaled Mountain Cat. With the healing energy coursing through Defalcat, all his cuts, and bruises healed. An infection was burned away, the rot in his teeth and gums vanished, old injuries disappeared, and the pain he carried in his back from where the young Theo had stabbed him, was no longer there. He woke to the excruciating pain of his body healing around the blade in his gut. Rufus kneeled at his side and gripped the blade, then twisted it in the wound. As the rogue finished screaming Rufus spoke to him.

"I have some questions for you, but the Lady Swinden is in a hurry, so you will answer hers first. You will give short, clear, specific answers. You will not deviate from what's asked, you will not taunt, or speak in riddles. You will give her whatever details she asks," Rufus twisted the blade hard and Defalcat cried out in pain again, "do you understand?"

"Y-y-yes," Defalcat said through clenched teeth.

"Good," Rufus then turned in the Lady Swinden's direction, "have you gotten yourself under enough control for an interrogation Lady Dylanna? This little kitten awaits your questions."

(OOC: I'll Make a Man Out of You has been stuck in my head all day. It was even in my dreams. Thanks for that Spicy! :P)

OOC: BWAHAHAHAHAHA
*success*
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Dylanna was taken off guard and disarmed within seconds, her eyes wide as she looked back at the filthy wolf who was but inches from her face. Then her eyes narrowed, jaw hardening as she looked from him, then to the men positioned all around her before returning those green eyes back to him.
Once he stepped away, she gave him an even dirtier look and snatched the damn potion from one of the men nearby, and downed it in three swift gulps.

She made a face, it was terribly bitter, but the potion took effect immediately as she gasped, doubling over (and nearly ripping more of her clothes in the process) before she caught herself, hands to her knees as she watched in mild fascination as the wounds began to seal together, flesh seeming to melt together, mending, as if turning into threads that seamed together, and appeared as if there hadn't even had been a wound at all. Though the stains of her blood on her clothing and skin remained, not a single scar had been set.

Her eyes darted quickly over to Rufus, then over to Chora who was performing the ritual, then down to the snake of a man who had just threatened her... and might have some clues for the location of her son. She wasted no time approaching, holding her breath a moment as she watched in fascination, though disturbingly so, as the man was healed, but a sword was kept through his gut.

It was only after a time when both Rufus and Defalcat went silent that she realized it was her turn, and her eyes turned deadly as she stood over him.  If looks could kill, Defalcat would be dead, ten times over. So she set her jaw and spoke carefully between her teeth, realizing, through a dizzying rush, she hadn't much time to save her son.

"Where is he,"s he growled, feeling herself internally shake as she clenched her hands into fists, needing to steel herself a moment lest she give into this blinding rage. "Tell me everything that you know, or I'd be more than happy to let this filthy wolf keep you this way, forever."

But despite his pain, Defalcat simply laughed, and Dylanna was taken back by this, not expecting it as rage drove her forward as she slugged the cat hard across his face.
"You will tell me or suffer the consequences far greater than this! NOW TELL ME WHERE MY SON IS AND WHY YOU ARE DOING THIS, WHO IS BEHIND THIS ALL, AND YOU WILL TELL ME NOW!!"

Canis Rufus barely contained his shock. He felt like he was just kicked in the gut by a horse. The mask almost slipped, the Ryk persona underneath pushed at the surface more fiercely than usual. Sam. Oh Kia, why? Not the boy. He was so young, and innocent, and quite adorable. No wonder Lanna was on a war path. Had his son been taken he would have left a pile of corpses that blocked out the sun. He was seething inside. This could not be happening. He kept the wolves away to keep her safe. She had only just come back into Ryk's life. Ryk had only just met Sam, and had sworn to himself that the boy would be spared tragedy. These Mountain Cats would pay dearly. They would all be hunted and exterminated. If they had claim in any other cities, the wolves would be heading there to snuff them out. This war would be one that the underworld of Serendipity would never forget. Perhaps it was time to build his empire. That was a good long term goal to work on. But that wouldn't help Sam now. He had to do something, he couldn't sit by and do nothing, but cautiously. He used hand talk to signal for messages to go out that the every cat still alive was to be interrogated for information on Samuel Swinden's abduction. He would do whatever it took to get the boy back safely. Then the Cats would be crushed.

Defalcat's laughing angered Rufus greatly, and the other emotions roiling under the surface were fueling to the fire. Out came four daggers in quick succession, digging deep into the tortured Cat's hands and feet. Then Rufus drew out his long knife and used it to slit Defalcats throat from ear to ear. As the knife parted Defalcat's flesh, Chora's healing energy sealed the wound just as the blade passed. Defalcat was screaming, until his vocal chords were sliced, then he was silent, until they stitched back together and the scream continued. Rufus finished the throat cutting motion with a quick slice that removed his victims ear. While the wound healed nearly instantly, the ear was still gone.

"As you can see Mountain Cat, the healing power Chora is using on you will keep you aliv no matter what I do to you," Rufus tossed the severed ear on the mans chest, "but it doesn't grow back anything you lose. So answer the woman's question," Rufus put the tip of his knife sharply against Defalcat's crotch, "unless you want to be singing falsetto."

The display of torture was too much for her to handle, and Dylanna found herself pushing away from the area. As much as she wanted information about her son, she could no longer contain her lunch and found herself retching in the corner. ANd then she began to shake, from weakness and from rage.
GODS BE DAMNED! She needed to get her son back. Was this the only way!?

And she heard Defalcat's laughter again, and felt the rage return within her. And as she moved to rise, something caught her ear, and her lips fell open in surprise.

"Cut me all you want, runt wolf," Defalcat growled. "I know better than to give in to you. You'll simply kill me once you get your answers, and I know you can't keep this up forever." His laughing continued and Dylanna found herself storming back to Rufus's side. Her eyes were burning like twin hells.

"You will answer me! You will tell me where they have taken my son!"

And again, the man laughed. "But you already know!" and his eyes shined darkly and he spoke but one word, one name.. the name of the city... "Cerenis," he spoke, then found himself howling out in pain as Dylanna sunk one of her own daggers into his balls and twisted it in.

Then away from him she ran, her eyes consumed in tears as she pushed her way through the wolves and to her carriage. No.. she had wasted too much time here. She had to move. She had to get to her son! She had only three moons!

Rufus let her go and signaled the Wolf with Dylanna's sword to return it to her. He pulled all the blades out of Defalcat and returned them to their proper places. The man was restrained and Chora stopped healing him. She looked absolutely drained, and a Blood Wolf helped support her as she walked back toward the Den. Defalcat was in tow as well, he would be interrogated for days if that's what it took to get everything out of him. Rufus planned on even calling in a psionicist to assist in tearing information from his mind. And the Cat was correct, once they had there info, Theo would cut off the mans head, since a blade in the back hadn't worked last time.

Things were going to change now. Rufus immediately gave orders that the Swinden estate was to be constantly watched. Everyone going in and out would be identified, and the Wolves would have a file on them. None of the servants would have a secret in their past. He would have to find a way to get a few Wolves onto the staff. Her deals would not be interfered with, but they would be monitored. Getting Wolves on her ships would be easier. He might even be able to buy off a few Captains. He would intertwine with her life as much as possible. Perhaps he could make use of her honest deals without sullying them. Something to consider.

For now he headed to the closest access to the Den. Rufus was rushing to make sure he could keep up with Lanna. He had runners dispatched to prepare horses. He sent word out to the Dun Wolves to prepare the Warrens. He would need to cross toward Cerenis with great haste. Birds would be sent to contacts there. The word would be spread to every Wolf out there. Some would wonder why, would have doubts, but nobody questioned the unending positive result of The Red Wolf's orders. Sam would be located in a day, perhaps two, and there would be packs of wolves in Cerenis to rescue him if that was what Rufus decided was best. If there were no major organizations moving in Cerenis, perhaps he could take over there now. Might be good to get a foothold on the territory. Ryk already had a few deals out of there. He prefered the Summervale ports for his shipping, but Cerenis would be a good springboard for the Wolves to take Whitesands.

Passing through the Den to his quarters, he could see that the whole place was bustling with activity. There were many captured Cats being brought in. Some were surprisingly young. That troubled him a bit. Children could be great thieves, but he didn't like the idea of making them soldiers. He went straight for the hidden panel in the wall behind his dressing screen as soon as he was in his room, door locked behind him. He grabbed a large pouch of his finest jewels, and a bigger one of gold coins. He was going to be prepared to bribe and buy off anyone he needed to. He returned the magic lock to its place and sealed the panel. He swapped his mundane weapons for the magical ones he kept stowed under a floor board, donned a pair of magic bracers, and he was ready for action.

He would get to Cerenis as fast as he could travel. He would protect Dylanna, and save Sam. He would make the Mountain Cats pay.

Dylanna was surprised to get her sword back, and by the complacency of the wolves, and as she was wiping away at her tears as she grabbed at her things inside her carriage and began to load whatever she could on horse back. She didn't have time to secure another valet, and took off down the cobblestone path of the city, her horse rushing through the town and tearing out of it, as if escaping from Hell itself. And she pressed her boot's heavily into the beast's side as it tore down the dirt path and through the forested road.

For now, she had but one thing on her mind...
Saving Sam.
Gods, if those men had done something to him...

Racing down the path faster than lightning, she continued to press the beast onwards. There would be no time for rest, no time for sleep, even as the day rolled on and storm clouds threatened over head. Though the storm was minor, when the rains came pouring down, they came down in cold sheets that soaked her to the bone. Even through the cloak she was still wearing. But onwards she still pressed, refusing to stop, only to rest the horse and get herself a bite to eat, but soon she was nearing the Seaside town of Cerenis, appearing all but disheveled, but making record time. She still had one more moon...
but night was quickly approaching as evening shadows stretched across the lands.


Samuel.. Samuel.. Samuel...
It was the single driving force that kept her moving onward, even as she was shaking inwardly from lack of proper food and rest. But she had to start looking around for clues. What had the letter said?
Pausing outside of the murmuring noise of a bustling tavern, she reached into her leather satchel and drew out the letter again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Meet me by the seaside town of Cerenis before the full moon if you want your child back alive. We'll speak of our demands then. And come alone.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sighing, Dylanna folded back up the letter and ran a hand through her messy, dark hair. She looked around, her frown deepening. Of course there would be no clues. Well, it was best to start looking, and she had a hunch she might find clues at docks. Pulling on the horse's lead, she lead the creature behind her as she made her way through the city, all the while her eyes were ever wary of her surroundings, every moving shadow or alley cat having her spooked.
Gods, she was a mess of nerves.
But Samuel... Gods, please...
Let him be ok.

Canis Rufus, The Red Wolf, discarded the last of the red rind of the mangosteen he was eating, as he dismounted from his horse. Spitting out a final seed, he signaled for the seven wolves, that had accompanied him, to follow close. Using paths and tunnels he was directed to by the Dun Wolves, Rufus had made record time on his trip to Cerenis. Having fresh mounts to swap out at key points had been especially helpful as well. It was early morning on the day Dylanna was to meet the kidnappers, and though Rufus did not know that, he would still be working as fast as he could. Eating while riding had saved time, using potions to energize them in substitution of sleep even more so. But the body couldn't last long under such conditions, and it would take its toll if they didn't get proper food and rest soon. The eight of them entered town, leading their horses down the roads as stall vendors were setting up, and early morning shoppers were coming onto the streets.

"Marlo, you said you have a contact at the docks," Rufus said to an especially wiry Shadow Wolf, "I want you to head there now. Leave your horse with us, we'll be staying at the Ragged Mare." Marlo dashed down an alley toward the docks after handing his reins to Tegan, one of the Blood Wolves personally selected by Zahi for this mission.

"Fin, I want you to meet with the smuggler you know that ships through Selevea. See if he was able to learn anything in the days it took us to ride here." Finnegan, surprisingly lithe for his squat stature, handed his reins to Sandra, Tegan's blade sister, and barreled off down an alley opposite of the direction Marlo went.

"Geoff, I want you to ask around, nose out shady deals and underworld agents. Get whatever information you can from the local colors. Ulrich, you'll be his shadow as usual." Geoff and Ulrich were twins. Ulrich was nearly the best stealth artist the Shadow Wolves had and was an amazing shot with his hand crossbows. Geoff was a master sleuth, and could convince a fish into moving to the desert. Together they were a dangerous combination. They both handed their reins to Chuck, a large man, and a Blood Wolves weapon master, and then moved off down another street to begin their work.

Rufus and the three Blood Wolves continued on their way through the city toward The Ragged Mare, tavern and inn. They did not try to hide who they were, and while most common folk would not recognize them, the criminals of the city surely would. They were the most powerful gang in the largest city of Serendipity and the number of stories about the Soot Wolves were growing. Especially now that Rufus had made them so efficient and organized. When they arrived at the inn, the owner was waiting for them. Rufus had sent by pigeon that they would be arriving soon, and his word of his arrival to town had quickly found its way to the establishment. It was a common gathering place for the seedier members of society.

"Hallo Wolves," the owner, Paul, said as Rufus and his escort walked up, "my stableman Ned has stalls prepared for your horses, and the two rooms you asked for are ready." Rufus and Tegan gave the horses to Chuck and Sandra to handle, and the two of them moved inside. At a table inside sat the three leaders of the wolves he had sent here weeks before. Cecil for the Bloods, Dina for the Shadows, and Kiefer for the Scavengers. They knew Rufus was here to destroy the Mountain Cats and to save a kidnapped boy. They would have much of the information he needed. And what they didn't have, the Shadow Wolves he brought would surely retrieve. It would probably be a bloody day, but Rufus would not rest until he succeeded.

By the time she had made it to the docks, she was surprised to find it relatively vacant. A few gulls cawed over head and the warm salty air greeted her as usual, but there wasn't even a single boat at the docks. At least, not on this side. It was strange, and as her eyes swept through the area, she caught sight of a few suspicious shadows, but when she went to investigate...
nothing was there.

Sighing frustratedly, she raked a hand through her hair and pressed onward, boots clacking against the wooden boards before she paused at the end of one dock and peered over at the ocean that bounced in cresting green waves. Perhaps she was too early? She could only hope so. But she didn't like the fact things were so quiet...

Cecil, Dina, and Kiefer, had a lot of information on movements and tactics. In fact they had begun recruiting and moving into the city quite well. The Mountain Cats were the only gang resisting the presence of the Wolves. Apparently they were associated with some crazy storm witch. She was pushing the Cats to fight the Wolves, but it couldn't last long. The Wolves had resources that couldn't be matched by any gang that hadn't been around as long as them. In Serendipity, that equaled out to just about nobody. The wolves weren't clear on who exactly this storm witch was, but the few descriptions had a familiar ring to them. And that familiarity had Rufus getting tingles running up his back. Something was desperately wrong here. He could sense it. But what? Who was it? The last time Rufus had been to Cerenis was when- No, it couldn't be. Surely it couldn't be. Had the little guy been right? Had his moment of weakness come back to haunt him. "I know who it is. That BITCH!"

Rufus stood, knocking back his chair with the speed and force with which he moved. Just then the building front exploded inward. The Cats were here, they were attacking him, they had been waiting for his arrival. The fire from the explosion had the other Wolves diving behind the bar, but not Rufus. The fire seemed to bend around him as it flew in. He was sweating from the intense heat but the fire did not lick his skin. With Aestival and Hiemal somehow now in his hands, he dashed forward through the flames and smoke. His blades went to work quickly, even the Cats could not easily brave the flames, and cutting them down was not hard for the blade master. Tegan soon joined in and then Chuck and Sandra were rushing around the corner to attack. Sandra had a vicious wound down her left arm and Chuck was covered in blood, none of it his, so they must have been ambushed as well. Cecil and Dina were fairly quick to join in as well, and with the fierce power of his Wolves, the little kittens were quickly on the run.

As the fire died down and the corpses were looted, it was a bit suspicious that the city guard didn't show up. The wolves didn't have enough power to keep the guard at bay yet, so it must have had to do with the Mountain Cats. "Valeska Horst," Rufus said the name with vehemence, "she must be involved. I'll kill that bitch this time."

There was a drop of cold water that landed on her nose. Blinking, she stared up at the dark clouds that began to roll in over head. Had it not been sunny but a moment ago? Then agian, her mind was hardly focused on the sky; and her heart was still hammering within her chest. Samuel.. she had to find Samuel, so as the rain waters began to come down rather quick, falling in heavy sheets blown wildly about in the on coming storm, it did not deter her from making her rounds along the dock, and by the time she made it to the other side of them, a quiet corner with not a single person in sight... she was soaked to the bone.

Yes, there was still no signs of whomever it was that wrote the letter, and she paused a moment to stand beneath an overpass and wiped the rain water off of her dripping nose and hands before pulling out the letter to read it again.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Meet me by the seaside town of Cerenis before the full moon if you want your child back alive. We'll speak of our demands then. And come alone.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sighing, she leaned back against the wall of the shack she had been standing beside, feeling completely helpless and vulnerable. And she might have even cried a little, her heart torn in so many places over her son's kidnapping that it took her a moment to find herself again before she folded the paper up and returned it to the inner breast pocket of her jacket. Then, drawing in a breath, she steeled herself and stepped back out onto the docks, her eyes sweeping around for a sign of something, anything...

And it was then she noticed a body floating out in the water. Blinking, she furrowed her brow and stepped cautiously towards the end of the slick dock. It was then she noticed the body was freshly killed, blood spread into the rain-pocked waters like red-ink...
but it wasn't the dead body that startled her, but the fact she saw a note was tacked onto his back.

"By the Gods.."s he clutched at her chest and bent down on one knee, noticing that the letter was folded over, and the side that was shown towards her, soaking in the rain, had dripping inked letters now erasing away from the falling rain.. but still she could read it...
And it had her name, lightly scripted across it the front.

Surprised, Dylanna drew in a sharp breath. Thinking quick, she bent down now and leaned now over from the dock, straining her reaching fingers out towards the body before finally being able to reach the thing as it floated nearer towards shore. She grabbed a fistful of the corpse's shirt and gave a heavy heave to pull it onto the dock beside her, and once the note was removed, and she, sitting beside the corpse; she opened it with shaking hands. ANd at the words written, a hand cupped a hand over her lips, tears coming to her eyes.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I told you to come alone. But I see you brought a whole pack of wolves. We'll take this out into the ocean. I'll give you one more day to get to the island of O'vvend'aak before I slit your boy's throat.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Tears fell onto the letter, melting some of the ink as it collected into tiny, salted bubbles upon it. She raised her head up, looking towards the blackened skies, then around, but still saw no one near her at the docks. And the rains were terrible, and she felt wretched, and had it not been for a familiar embroidered mark on the man's shirt laying beside her, she would have left the corpse alone. Her brows furrowed as she turned the man over and gasped...

It was Rick Hollendae; and ironically the only man that had been alive that knew the identity of Samuel's true father. She was quick to her feet, and backed away, eyes going ot the docks around her, to the shacks and sheds; vacant of people, but hanging, rusting supplies clattering in the stormy winds. Then she turned to the ocean. She felt eyes upon her, but could not see. What sort of cruel trickery was this? And why now, why to her?A nd why were the damn Soot Wolves involved!?
She felt her blood heat up and she wanted to scream, but instead, bit her bottom lip until she tasted blood.

"Gods..."s he stared down at the letter again. She only had one day to get her ship ready and set sail.... and to get to the damn island of O'vvend'aak.

His six companions had suffered few wounds, the worst of which being the gash down Sandra's arm from when she blocked the stableman Ned's knife from going into Chuck's back. Kiefer had no wounds other than a bump on the head. The Inn keeper Paul, had struck him with a bottle when all the Wolves had dived behind the bar. Paul didn't survive the knife in his gut from Cecil. There were a few patrons laying about knocked out, but there hadn't been many to begin with and most ran off when the fighting started. The Wolves of course looted these poor unconscious people, but at least they left the clothes on their backs, and their blood in their veins. Everyone's wounds were tended, corpses were stripped of all clothing and valuables, and scalped in the usual Soot Wolves way. No use wasting hair that could be used for wigs. A nearby sewer grate was slid back and the twelve dead bodies were dropped in. Just then Geoff and Ulrich showed up.

"Kia! What happened?" Ulrich was clearly surprised. Chuck simply swept his arm out in a gesture simply meant to say 'Behold'.


The day had gotten away from them, and a storm was brewing in the distance. Clouds could just be seen rolling in on the docks. "Alright Wolves," Rufus said, addressing the eight present, "these Mountain Cats clearly mean business. I believe they are being led by Valeska Horst, an ex-Wolf," he paused for a moment before adding, "and ex-lover." Sandra let out an audible groan. "I know, I know. A woman scorned and all that. She broke the rules, and I showed mercy in sparing her life. Hoyle warned that I should have killed her, but I didn't. This will not likely be an easy fight." He paused again and looked around at the assembled group. "We all know that any of us could fall at any time. Even your fearless leader. Nobody has the strength and brains to run the Wolves as well as I. If that weren't true I'd already be dead. If things go bad, and I fall, someone must take back my badge to the Den. I am stating now who I back as the next Red Wolf. It will be controversial, and much blood will be spilled because of it. I back Zahi as the next Red Wolf, only she is strong enough a leader. And though she does not quite have my mind for running things, she will hold the guild together. Of course this means that Jack must fall, and likely Kui." The looks on the faces of his group ranged from Geoff's shock, to Chuck looking proud, and Keifer looking troubled. "If you will see to it my will is done there will be a power vacuum. With Jack and Kui gone, their places must be filled. The Matriarch is of no consequence to me. There may be others that could fill the place of the Beta, but if none rise to the challenge there is one that will thrive there. Zeina. She doesn't want to be the Red. But with her behind Zahi, the two will rule the guild expertly." It was Kiefer's turn to look proud. Everyone knew he had a thing for the Coyote. It was doubtful she'd ever give him the time of day.

As he finished his declaration, something he never thought he would truly have to do, Marlo ran up. The man was severely winded from running, and had a number of minor wounds. "There's trouble Rufus. The Mountain Cats are all stirred up, going crazy all through town. They don't outnumber us by much anymore, but they do." Marlo was clearly worried, but he continued to give his report, "my contact at the docks was dead, strung up in his office. They were waiting for me there. From the bit of news I gathered on my way back through Cerenis, a woman fitting the Lady Swinden's description was seen heading to the docks not long ago. When I fled there, there were no boats, no people, the Docks are deserted."

"Marlo, you've done good. Find a place to hide and wait for Fin." Rit clasped the Shadow on the shoulder and headed toward the stables. When he arrived he found that while they were fighting inside the horses had been killed. They would have to go on foot to the Docks. Hopefully they would make it in time.

By the time the letter had been found, the skies quickly darkened and the entire world seemed to go black. Lightning struck over head, lighting up the docks and harsh winds blew the rain soaked hair from Dylanna's face. She looked around one last time to see if anyone was out there, frustration growing more powerful than the storm as she shouted, "What do you want from me!? Please!!!" Her voice carried intot he air, and then a crack of thunder silenced her. She grit her teeth.
"Please! I just want my son back! Where are you!? Are you out there!? I will give anything! Even my life!" she shouted.
Gods... Samuel...
And despite her desperate pleas, no one replied as she remained alone in the chaos of the storm, soaking, dripping wet.

Though after her shouts, the thunder and lightning seemed to calm, but the sea was still churning and crashing tall wave into the docks. Unseen eyes were watching her, unseen eyes waiting... If the Soot Wolves were to show now... the unseen woman wanted to play...


Tears came to Dylanna's eyes in frustration. She knew no one was there to answer, so she made quick work rushing to the other end of the dock now, hoping, praying that her ship that was docked there was still there and nothing had befallen it. And once she made it to the other side, she stared over, crest fallen...
Her ship was gone, and as her eyes raised to look out into the ocean, she saw just bits and pieces f the top of the mass beginning to bubble ad sink, before it became swallowed into the sea.

Cerenis was not quite as large as Arca, but the streets were not as well planned out. Without knowing the sewer shortcuts or locations of the dead ends, Rufus and his companions were forced to remain on the surface. They were forced into a few small skirmishes, and in this rare case, did not stop to loot and scalp. They were going for speed over a great distance. The days of traveling without rest were beginning to wear on them. Luckily Rufus and Tegan got some scraps of bread when they met with the scion representatives, and those same representatives were with them now, and not worn thin. Along the way through the city, Rufus sent word of his demands. Cats were to be interrogated for information on Valeska Horst. Beyond that, there would be no quarter for the enemy. All Mountain Cats were to be executed once they were found to be of no use. If information on Valeska was found, it was to be brought to Rufus immediately. They also picked up a few more Wolves along the way, just in case there was any trouble at the docks. Rufus wasn't taking any chances.

Zahi's Bloods competed to see who would guard the Red, a place of honor. Sandra won the draw and ran along just behind Rufus. When a new messenger came, she slowed pace to give him room to deliver his report to Rufus as they ran, but stayed close. When they came around a corner, a cold blast of frigid air took them by surprise. With his quick reflexes and the aid of Hiemal, Rufus was able to roll and avoid the freezing blast. Sandra stopped just short and, the other Wolves followed suit. The young messenger was not so lucky. Frozen solid, the man toppled over and shattered into bloody chunks as he hit the ground. Rufus spared no time for being shocked or horrified at the death, or the loss of information that went with it. Two daggers were out of his sleeves in quick succession, and it was the mage that was shocked. A fireball, in his hand and ready to be thrown, instead detonated where it was, consuming the mage and his two companions in the blast. As the conflagration quickly spread, Sandra pulled Rufus to his feet, and he and his wolves changed their route, leaving the Mountain Cats behind to burn.

With several more near misses like that one quickly behind them, Chuck decided that it was time to put Rufus in the center of the group. "Zahi would likely ring our necks if you died Rufus. She's scary. When she's angry people die." Sandra and Tegan nodded ascent, and Rufus gave them an amused look. If Chuck feared Zahi enough to give an order to the Red Wolf, he was even more impressed.

"Very Well Chuck," Rufus said with a grin, "May we continue?"

With his pack now swarming around him in a protective bubble, Rufus was feeling a bit claustrophobic. He preferred to lead, but he would make due, and with the attractive Sandra now running just in front of him, the view was excellent. They were only a couple blocks from the docks now, with any luck Dylanna would still be there and safe. He was a bit worried as his Wolves fought off another roving band of Cats. And now it seemed the city guard had mounted an offensive. Cats and guards and Wolves were tearing each other apart, the three groups converging on this spot for one final battle. Rufus climbed up a nearby scaffolding to get a better view of the guard force. He was looking for a particular official.

The greatest achievement of his scions was news of the Captain of the Guard. Where most men in his position preferred to hide at the command station and send his orders from afar, he was fond of taking to the field himself, and directing his guards personally. They had also learned of his bad habits; gambling debts, frequent trips to the brothels, two bastard children with serving girls in his household. No mans reputation would survive if such things were publicly known. There he was, near the rear of the guards, but still in the fight. Rufus leaped down from the scaffold and drew his honor guard around him. They assumed a small wedge formation and made for the Guard Captain. Wolves that saw them coming cleared the way, and any enemies that blocked the way were slain. They rotated the point man as he became tired, or took on too many wounds. When it was Rufus's turn in the position, Sandra and Chuck stepped up. Chuck gave the Red Wolf a stern look. Sandra smacked Chuck on the rump, "Don't worry about Chuck sir," she said with a grin, "he can handle taking a second turn." Rufus let his turn pass, with only a laugh at the encounter.

When they reached the Guard Captain, his wolves were instructed to defend and disable, but not to slay. Chuck muscled forward and grabbed both of the mans arms, headbutted him, and pulled him back into the wedge. Rufus was there waiting. "I hope you didn't strike him too hard," Rufus said to his large body guard, "well it seems he's coming around. Hello there sir, I am Canis Rufus, the Red Wolf, leader of the Soot Wolves."

"I've heard of you, dog," the Guard Captain spit at Rufus's feet, and recieved a knee to the gut from Chuck.

"Now now sir. I only wish to have a courteous conversation with you. It seems my associates have discovered you have very bad habits. Well we bought your debts from your bookie, so now that fifteen thousand gold debt you owe, is to the Wolves," the mans face went grey and Rufus continued, "I also bought the three whore houses you frequent, and recruited the two street walkers you sometimes use into the Wolves as well." Now the mans face was deathly white, "and for my crowning achievement. The two serving girls in your household that have recently borne your bastard son and daughter have been contacted by the Wolves, and promised great sums of money if they agree to come forward when we ask it of them. They were eager to comply." The Guard Captain was now a pale green, and looked about to sick up.

Sandra leaned in and patted the man on the face. "You sure have been a busy boy," she said, "You have any action left for me?" She grabbed his crotch roughly and she and Tegan burst into laughter.

Rufus reached under his armor and retrieved a folded document, "this, sir, is a contract of employment. When you press your thumb onto it with your blood, you will be wrapped in a geis. If you betray the Wolves, the spell will enact and you will die an excruciatingly painful death," Rufus paused to let that sink in, "If you refuse the contract, we will make sure you live, and that your life is so miserable you will wish for death." With that he held the now open document in front of the man. He hurriedly cut open his thumb and pressed it on the X at the bottom, then fell to his knees.

"Curse you and your damnable Wolves."

"Happy to be working with you too Captain. Now put out the order, 'Spare the Wolves, Slay the Cats'. With haste Captain. And you can expect a tidy sum for your cooperation." The Guard Captain looked at Rufus in confusion, "Even those that are loyal through coercion get paid." The Captain got up then, and stumbled forward out of the wedge. Soon after the order was being called out and passed along 'Spare the Wolves, Slay the Cats', and the Wolves were receiving a matching order, 'Spare the Guard, Slay the Cats'. It spread like wildfire through the streets, being taken up as a chant, and the Cats were being easily routed.

Soon after, the guards and Wolves were chasing the last of the Mountain Cats out of Cerenis, the rebuilding would soon commence. But Rufus was not focused on that. During the fighting, he had been dragged further away from the docks. Now, with night quickly falling in around them, the fires in throughout Cerenis being put out, and a steady rain falling on the city, Canis Rufus rushed toward the docks. He had been separated from all but his three Blood Wolves, and they were tight on his heels. He rounded a corner and saw Dylanna there. She was on her knees, staring out to sea, and by the shudder of her shoulders, he could tell she was sobbing. Oh Lanna. We'll save Sam.

"Lady Swinden!" He called out to her through the storm, raising his right hand high to draw her attention, hoping she'd turn. But before she could respond a crossbow bolt shot into his soft underarm. Chuck pulled Rufus back as Sandra stepped in to block a barrage of bolts with the only shield she had, her body. Tegan cried out and grabbed her blade sister, dragging her back as Chuck carried Rufus. A few more Wolves ran up then, accompanied by Cecil. Chuck pulled the bolt out of the Red Wolf and his blood began to pour forth. The assembled Wolves stood by in shock and fear as they watched the life draining from their leader. But with one last bit of energy, Sandra pulled a healing potion from her pouch, handed it to Tegan, and then died, with a grin on her face. She had done her duty, she had saved the Red Wolf.

OOC: This post might be lame, for I am sleepy.

-------------

Dylanna's world was crumpling right before her eyes. What sort of cruel joke was this? First her son is kidnapped, and she makes it to the dock; a friend is murdered, a note tacked onto his back and her ship... her primary shipping vessel was now lost to the seas; her only, quickest means to get to the island.

Gritting her teeth, she tried to steel back her tears, feeling as furious as the storm raging over head. And the storm was unyielding, it's winds gusting wildly, growing ever fiercer the moment the Soot Wolves showed up on the scene. The men hiding knew that was their signal, and were only cursing when they were uncertain if their mark was hit.

The chaos of the scene, the blood, the arrows.... it was almost too much for Dylanna, especially when she thought the name who called out to her sounded familiar. Was that.. was that Mr. Handelaar? He would be, perhaps, a welcomed sight; even though she was not on the friendliest of terms with him, some how his presence in this mess made her comforted; that was, until she watched the arrows sink into him and his men.

Panicked, she rushed over towards the group, shouting his name, only to be stunned to realize it was hardly Mr. Handelaar, but somebody else...
that Red Wolf of the Soot Wolves, yes.. that man she had met from earlier. Her eyes went wide, uncertain before she looked around to the others. And ironically, the firing had ceased when Dylanna appeared on the scene. She stared down to the dead, bloodied woman, than to the others, before asking through a shaky tone, "Soot Wolves? What are you doing here?"

Was it just coincidence that they appeared on both occasions of chaos within her life? Once back in Arca when the streets were burning with fire; and now, in Cerenis?
Her eyes now glanced down towards the wounded, bleeding form of Rufus, uncertain what to say; her body still frozen in shock.

Cecil grabbed the potion vial from Tegan and kneeled by Rufus. He unstoppered it and helped the Red Wolf drink its contents. The magic went to work immediately, knitting the wound, fixing the punctured lung. What the potion actually was doing was putting a super boost on the bodies natural healing ability. It was what Chora specialized in. She was a healing savant. Since she took over the position of healer at a request from Rufus, fewer Wolves had died, and fewer still suffered long lasting damage from wounds. The one drawback was that since the bodies healing came from itself, it needed to be refueled.

"Damn, am I starved."

Chuck and Cecil looked at each other when Rufus spoke and both began to laugh. After a moment Rufus sat up and looked around. He saw Tegan, still leaned over Sandra. Nobody had moved to strip the woman, they didn't want to intrude. Rufus stood and walked to Tegan, ignoring Dylanna for the moment. "Sandra was exceptional. She went above and beyond. I owe her my life," he put his hand under Tegan's chin and gently drew her gaze up to him. "Your blade sister will be honored," he turned and addressed the growing crowd, "from this day forth, all of our comrades that die defending the Soot Wolves will be honored. If you die on a job, or through some other foolishness of your own, the rules will apply as usual. But if like today, like Sandra, you fall in the defense of our territory, of our claims, or of your leaders, you will be interred, and your resting place will be defended. Spread the word."

Rufus reached into his hip pouch and pulled out his last purple mangosteen. He began peeling it with a throwing dagger to get to the delicious and nutritious flesh inside. He turned to Dylanna Swinden then, popping a wedge into his mouth. "I'm sorry I didn't arrive sooner. As soon as I learned Sam had been taken I came," he turned to a nearby Shadow Wolf, "what do we know?"

"As you believed, Valeska Horst is the mastermind behind this. Sam Swinden has been taken to O'vvend'aak."

Rufus scanned the group, he was sure he had seen him arrive earlier. There he was. "Any good news from the smugglers Fin?" The squat man stepped forward through the clustered bodies.

"No news that's new or different from what you've received. But they did mention they have a small vessel in the dry docks. Repairs were finished yesterday, and we're free to use it if we like."

The Red Wolf turned back to Dylanna. "Stay close Miss Swinden, Fin will lead the way to that ship, and we'll use it to get your son back." He signaled for Fin to show them the way and his growing army was on the move.

For a good long while, Dylanna remained there, viewing as an outsider, looking in. And the looking glass she watched through made her head spin. They knew so much about her, about this situation, and the magic of the potion that saved that man's life... Gods, what was going on with this world?! She felt as useless as a doll, as if the world was playing cruel tricks on her; puppeting her as if her movements and choices were not her own, but pulled from elsewhere and despite the severity of the situation, she found anger raging from deep within.

"STOP!" she shouted, her voice echoing like the crack of a whip. She clenched her shaking hands tightly into fists. Her eyes shined over hotly with the threat of tears. She slowly shook her head, taking a step towards the group of bandits and thieves and killers all around her. It was just too much to take in.

Then, she turned to The Red Wolf, baring her teeth angrily at him as she got in his face, giving his cheek a hard slap.

"Why do you all know so much about me!? How is it that you've followed me here like a pack of wild animals!? Why is it that everybody seems to be playing with me like some sort of doll!? I swear to you, if you're responsible for my son's disappearance,"s he began to said, her lips trembling, voice going deeper as she growled. "So help me, that potion won't be enough to save you. Explain yourself! Why are you all here! Who were those men shooting at us, and by the Gods, what the hell do you even care about me or my son!?"

Dylanna Swinden shouted, and they all stopped. Some were shocked, others amused. Then she made threats, and this drew even more shock and amusement. Who did this woman think she was? Some bristled and wanted to strike out, but everyone knew the rule. A very rare rule, and the reason it had been easy to single out the Swinden's as a target for the Mountain Cats. Her threats meant nothing to them, they were a minor insult. Her life, her legacy could be snuffed out by these men and women. But they followed the Red Wolf, and his words were law.

Rufus turned and faced Lanna, he looked her dead in the eyes and made sure she heard every word. "Do NOT ever threaten me again WOMAN! Your life is only as sweet as it is because of my connection to your father. I could take your empire, your life, your son, and you would have no power to stop me," he glared at her hard to make sure she got his point, "You are the only powerful merchant in Arca who doesn't have dirty hands. Your father was a good man, an honorable man, and he made friends with a thief like me, but NEVER sullied his hands. It was like a game between us, I tried to corrupt him and he tried to turn me to the light," he was getting angry at the emotions he was feeling and looked away before continuing. "All of us criminals you see around you, will tell you that it is truly rare for us to find a real friend," he returned his eye to her face and had so much fury there it seemed a thunderhead was forming at his crown. "I will NOT let his line be threatened. I will protect you and your son as long as I am alive. These Wolves would normally tear apart a man that was subject to such weakness. But I AM NOT WEAK! I CRUSH EVERYONE WHO STANDS IN MY WAY!" He delivered these last words with such fury and passion that he was panting with the effort. Many of the Wolves stepped back unconsciously at his tirade. When angered, the Red Wolf was a truly fearsome man.

He had his calm composure back in a moment. Pushing his hair back from his face and adjusting his eye patch Rufus said to the Lady Swinden, "Now would you like to accompany us as we rescue your son? Or would you prefer we leave you here to wonder as to why, and complain that we are?"

The man was terrifying, and her fear probably shone when he had gotten right into her face and breathed his words, as if he possessed the hot, furious breath of a dragon. Her eyes prickled hotly with tears, but she stood her ground, keeping her chin held high as best she could, despite all of the strength inside her becoming deflated by his words.

She swallowed the knot within her throat. Her father... her father associated with a man like this!? Gods! What else did she not know!? Was he a fool to trust or even let himself get near such a criminal? But the more the words became realized, rather than becoming some distant nightmare that was being slapped across her face, the more she found herself breaking down.

This was too much. There was an army of men all around her, a storm rumbling over head, as if wanting in anticipated breath to release it's wrath once more; but for that moment, it was calmer htan before, the lightning remained at bay, but hte winds still whipped past them in a fury, an the rains still poured down heavily from above. So it might have been the rain that wavered on her lips, or made her eyes appear to waver with tears, even an illusion that her lips were trembling as she stared back at him, simply breathing, simply staring, her chest rising and falling heavily as her clothing remained suctioned tightly and wet to her skin.

"I would befriend the devil himself, Gods I would, to save my son. You say you knew my father and you're here to help.." She took a step back, just to give herself space, and to save a little face as she drew in a careful breath.
"I have little choice," she said, her voice becoming grey. "Without a ship I might as well start swimming in the ocean." She looked Rufus over, then her green eyes slowly rose to the men all around him. They were a motley crew, this was for sure, but she had dealt with rats like this before on a ship; and Gods she knew it was hard.
Stepping away, she turned from him, drawing in a careful breath before she spoke.

"It seems we're forming an alliance for now." And she turned back to look at Rufus, a dirty, disgusting, one-eyed pig of a man and tried to steel the simmering heat rising in her blood.
"I will join you in sailing to O'vvend'aak."

As she found herself but a helpless victim as much as the next. But if her father had known him... now she was curious as to why she had never been made aware.... THough perhaps it was those minor details that had been taken with him to his early grave. Perhaps... this man might k now more? They'd have an entire day to speak of it. But for now.. Samuel was the most important thing. So even if this was a game... she'd play. She had little choice.
and she wished to the Gods now more than ever that her father was still alive. She could certainly use direction and his strength, his voice... his heart.

His heart. Perhaps that was the legacy the the late Lord Swinden had left in Rufus. He had been a dear friend, almost like a father. Even after he figured out Ryk Handelaar and Canis Rufus were one and the same. It took a smart man, a wily investigator, to put together the little details that brought him to that conclusion. And once he knew that the man he was trying to marry his daughter to was a true criminal, he played the game even harder, trying to sway Ryk over to the side of light. He had nurtured a change in the cutthroat thug. Already he had a soft spot for children, and with the influence of the almost saintly Lord Swinden, he had journey into a lighter shade of grey.

"I'm no devil Miss. Swinden, but I fight just as dirty. I'll save your boy, or die trying."

Rufus turned away from her and drew both his blades. His Wolves around him as they followed Fin. Shadows ran off with Blood escorts to scout out any Cats and to cut them down. There were a few small groups that resisted the Wolves, but they were easily cut down. When they reached the dry docks, there was only one ship, if you could call it that, that was sea ready.

"This is the ship?" Rufus asked Fin, he was clearly not impressed.

"She's small sir, but the smuggler said she's fast. They call her The Minnow."

The shallow, narrow hull of the ship hanging in front of them was perhaps eight meters in length. Such ships were fast, as Rufus knew. They were mainly used for their speed, to outrun larger more dangerous vessels, and for racing. Ryk had two such keelboats that he kept for his own pleasure. But the single masted vessel would not carry many, and they could be capsized easily. Luckily Rufus had done his share of sailing, and he knew Chuck was a pirate before he joined the Soot Wolves.

"Alright Wolves," he called addressing the assembled army, "I need a crew of seasoned sailors. With the Lady Swinden, Chuck, and myself, that will leave little room. I know a vessel of this size can be crewed by five men, but we're taking eight. I need the best mage we've got here today, the best sea legged marksman, and three that will be good in a fight." He let them talk amongst themselves for a moment.

"On a clear day in this ship, with the winds behind us, it would probably take us around three hours to make it to O'vvend'aak," he looked around at them as he spoke to his Wolves, "but the weather is horrible and looks to get worse. From what I hear, we're going up against a Sea Witch. This means the weather may get deadly, and it's likely the trip will take longer. So who's coming?"

A three hour journey on a storm-raging sea was beyond foolish, it was suicidal.

The waves were unsatiable, bouncing the little keelboat above them, a few waves occasionally spraying across it's decks. Dylanna drew in a breath to calm herself, to steady her nerves, and never once did her eyes leave the ocean. The skies were broiling with storm clouds that spat out a whip of lightning that emitted a thunder shock so loud it shook the ground.

Whoever was coming was a fool. If they were lucky, the small vessel would be able to manage the waves, but the further she looked out at sea, it was merciless in it's eternal, restless churning. It appeared as if the God of the Seas was angered and his embodiment, seen fit in the water, was agitated thoroughly.

Despite her predicament, and not knowing this so called 'Rufus'; leader of the Soot Wolves, she felt somewhat at peace knowing she'd have others help her along. But to have murderers and thieves be her crew? She was visibly frowning, her dark hair, wet and whipping about her face as the storm winds continued to rage.

Yes, Rufus might not call himself a devil, but there certainly was some sort of foul play here, and the idea he mentioned a sea witch, well...
that piece of information did not sit well in her stomach.
So when the men before Rufus were discussing who wanted to become a part of the crew, she stepped nearer to him and asked under her breath.

"How do you know a sea witch is causing this storm?"

"Her name is Valeska Horst. She sunk Swinden trading vessels a few years back, and I banished her from the Wolves because of it. She broke the only new rule I added when I took over. The Swinden's are off limits," he looked at Dylanna with his blue eye, "she seeks to take revenge on you and I for this banishment, by breaking my rule again." Rufus felt a twinge of shame and regret, "if I wasn't protecting your fathers legacy from the criminal world, she wouldn't be doing this. I should have killed her back then, but I spared her. I won't make that mistake again."

He knew this information wouldn't go over well with her, but it was the truth. He had kept his distance, and as a result she and Sam had no trouble with the growing underworld of Arca, until now. His plans to remedy the situation would go into affect as soon as he returned. Well, if there was a guild to return to. He hadn't liked leaving when he felt the unrest bubbling up, but this was Sam and Dylanna. Deep down he knew he'd sacrifice the whole guild for them if he had to.

The five volunteers stepped forward then. Hansel, a wizard, would use his magic to help tame the weather and the waves. He wouldn't be able to affect it much, with it so wild, but every bit could save them. Derek, a pirate marksman, had a cranked heavy crossbow. With his extensive experience, he'd be able to remove any ranged threats. Brint and Meekus were seasoned mariners, and skilled swashbucklers. They would be joined by an old salt that everyone just called Swab. With Rufus, Chuck, and Dylanna, the eight of them would sail forth in the Minnow in what would not be a pleasant three hour cruise.

Dylanna listened quietly to his story, only nodding, never commenting. It was still a lot to take in to consider her father had befriended... well...this... this man. She studied him over, especially his eyes, finding, an odd sense of comfort from them. They looked oddly familiar... a beautiful color, like the ones she had looked into that night on her ship after the storm, and she had gotten drunk and allowed herself to fall prey to Ryk Handelaar's charms.

She felt her heart drop into her belly. Should she warn Ryk about this? Let him know his son is..
but no.. no, that was silly to think, considering Ryk wasn't even aware who his son was. And she was still tremendously afraid of the repercussions of coming clean on the identity of Samuel's father. Even still, it only added to the guilt in that moment. Then again... would Mr. Handelaar even care? He might, considering, if he were to claim the child as his own, it would give him an heir.. but then again, he'd have the right to take Samuel away from her. But... could he be be so cruel?

No, no. She couldn't risk it. Not after all of this. Ryk Handelaar must never know. Thinking back to what Rufus was saying about her father, she remembered what her father had said about Ryk. He had mentioned he wasn't such a bad fellow, perhaps a bit to loose and uses too much of his charms and other unmentionable tactics to do business, but with a good wife, he'd say, that man would be golden.
And then she recalled the endless nights about why she would be the perfect match. And as much as she protested it, her own barriers had been broke down that one fateful night to give Ryk Handelaar the one night they both needed, had craved.

Truthfully, the pair could of died that night on the sea, and to be alive... and drunk, well, it made her think to things she had never allowed herself to consider before... and that one night was truly heavenly. But even still, she knew it was a mistake, thinking back to all of those times she had seen him at social events, shamelessly flirting wtih every woman he saw, and even disappearing to have rumors of scandal pop up only hours later.

She never wanted to be one of those women, but there she was, having turned into one and she was no longer any better than the rest. And now that she thought on it, he probably had several other bastard children out there. So why would he ever care for Sam?

But then she thought back to the flowers..
her house had been full of them, and still, now, she would never know the identity of her admirer... but then he showed up that night after the fair, with just a single, plain bouquet. And she didn't know why she felt more moved over that single bouquet then over the menagerie of flowers taking up a hefty bit of realestate in her house.


Rky Handelaar.. shameless flirt! She shook off her thoughts about him, and as the men were boarding the ship, she found a moment to approach Rufus's side and spoke directly to him.

"I'm... sorry about early. You must forgive me, I'm afraid I do not know who I can trust on this and well.... you've already proven yourself worthy in my book for offering to help. I'm not sure how or why my father had met or befriended you, but I do know he had quite the open mind, and was more welcoming than my mother on some of the men he had taken under his wing. He was a good man, that he was, and I wish he were here. I could surely use his guidance right about now." ANd she turned away from him to look out onto the sea,t he rains still pouring down heavily upon them. It was a ship full of fools. She looked towards the crew. Was this all for real? Were these thieves just really going to help her rescue her son? Though she supposed it made sense if they were connected...

"The woman you spoke of before," Dylanna began. "How dangerous is she? You say she's some sort of witch?" That made her worry even more for Samuel- for would this godawful witch be doing something wicked to him now?

"What do you think she'll ask of us? Gods know I'll give up anything to save my son. Does she want money?" She only hoped it was that, but she had a feeling it would be something much worse, and her connection to this man was probably much deeper than his story. "I'm afraid I know nothing about her and barely anything about you and your wolves. That portion of what makes up Arca, I try to ignore."


~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Elsewhere, a woman sat in the shadows of the lighthouse. The man who was on outpost for the weekend was now dead, his blood draining well into the stone floor, and Samuel... well, he and his wolf pup were inside, away from the storm and rain. She treated them like kings, having bought him all sorts of cakes and sugary sweets. And he had gobbled them up and now was playing  in the basement level of the light house when he came running up the steps and approached the woman with his pup.

"When can I see my mother?" he asked, wiping off the snot from his nose on his sleeves.
Valeska turned around, grinning down at him.

Samuel felt afraid, for her one eye, now marred with an ugly, gnarled and fleshy-bubbled scar, had a coating of white over top of it; and her smile... she smiled so wide it was frightful and exposed much of her teeth, making her appear wicked, like a witch. She had even told him she was, and that seemed to keep the boy and his dog in line.

"Your mother is on her way. Just be patient and when she is here.." her grin grew. "Then we can all play." Samuel gave a sniff as he looked down at his shoes. "Do you want to see some of my magic, boy?"

Samuel lifted his gaze. Valeska's smile grew when he replied with a hesitant nod. Reaching out her hand, she held it, palm side up. The tips of her fingers began to glow blue, then dwn from her finger tips and into her palm snapped a crack of lightning that surged and popped before she thrust her hands towards the heavens, and a massive bolt of lighting struck out from her hand, surging in a wicked, blue-hued dance at hte bottoms of the swollen, black storm clouds before striking out onto the sea.

"See that power?" she said, her eyes wild. storm winds blowing through her blonde hair, while the remnants of the lightning bolt licked up her arm. "That's the power of a witch of the weather, boy. Know it well." she warned him,t hen gestured to the light house. "Now, get back inside. We don't need you catching a cold."

Samuel could have pissed himself, and once the order was given, he rushed back inside, the wofl pup following after, it's tail between it's legs. Once the child was gone, Valeska's eyes went back out into the ocean, and traced a finger along the horizon, then began to tap it, and soon the waves were growing stronger and larger than before.

Before turning away to set his men working, Rufus gave her an answer she surely did not want to hear. "I honestly doubt she wants anything from us other than my suffering and death. If that's what it takes to save the boy, I'll pay that price."

He started calling out orders then to have the shunts removed and the caisson flooded. They would have to carefully guide the ship out of its dock. With the wind and waves, as the dry dock filled with sea water, the vessel could be rocked into the sides. A damaged hull was the last thing they needed. Swab climbed into the caisson before the water was lifitng the small ship, and climbed aboard. He made sure the boom wouldn't swing out, and checked on the rigging. It was smart to assure no accidents happened before they had even launched the Minnow. The other five Wolves that would be crewing the vessel waded out to the boat then. The water was rising fast, and it was better to not have to swim.

"Perhaps you should join them before the water level is too high," Rufus said, turning back to Dylanna, "I will join you shortly."

The ship was being tethered on both sides of the dry dock by wolves that would be working to guide it safely out to sea in this storm. This was going to be tricky business.

Dylanna's frown deepened at his words. Was this man really crazy enough to risk his life for her child? It was all so crazy, but if it was the way to save her child...
She simply nodded at his words, but before he left, she placed a hand upon his shoulder and looked him square in the eyes.
"Thank you," and she paused, her eyes wavering. "You have no idea how much this means to me."

Ryk's heart fluttered in Rufus's chest, but the man kept his face calm, his words steady. "I do what I must, because I must." He turned from her to let her wade through the water to the boat before she's have to swim. He shouted more commands to his Wolves, and they went to work swiftly. The boat was gently being held so it wouldn't hit the sides of the dry dock as the water level rose and the men and women were preparing to lower the caisson. With just about everything in order Rufus grabbed the rope from a suspension crane and swung out to land on the boat without entering the water.

"Hansel I need you to start calming the weather around us. I know it's not gonna be easy, but do your best. Pace yourself though. I may need you at the end." Rufus turned away from the wizard to observe the rest of his crew. Chuck was struggling a bit, but Swab was helping him, and it appeared the big man was a quick study. Things would be ready any moment and they would get under way. This would likely be a very unpleasant ride, and he might even end up dead. But Rufus would make sure Sam and Dylanna were safe before he went if that was the case.

Despite all efforts, the sea continued to rage and ever since the boat entered the waters, the skies began to roar like lions. A chill raced up Dylanna's spine as the ship sped out into the waters, the wizard doing what he could to keep  the boat still; but it seemed they were at the mercy of whatever this storm woman had planned.

She had so many questions, so many thoughts, but as her knuckles whitened as they gripped upon the side of the ship, only one thing pressed on inside her mind: Samuel. She would brave Hell itself to save him, and here she found herself in the middle of the sea, the island but a black dot upon the horizon, and a ship taking on water and threatening to sink each time a large wave came crashing into it.

She was right there with the crew, taking up buckets and commands where she could. She was soaked to the bone as she was helping cast out water, but it seemed every time they got the boat under control, that another wave threatened to break the thing apart or turn it over. And still, it seemed the island was so close, yet so far away. Were they making any progress at all?

Through chattering teeth, she feared they might not ever reach the island, even as her heart drummed heavily inside her chest. She called out for more buckets, then to steer the boat to starboard, for the ocean was beginning to swell at incredible heights. THough directions soon proved useless as the ocean kept gathering up taller and taller, mightier than any building she had ever seen.
And off int he distance they were finally able to make head way to the island. It was so close, she could see it- only half a mile..
they were almost there.

But then the terrible wave broke at the top, foam frothing at it's peak as it's shadow roared over head, and the entire boat was gobbled up into the ocean....

This wave would prove too large for the boat to survive. Rufus could see that. He turned with urgency in his movements and called out to Hansel. Though he could not hear the command, he saw the intensity with which Rufus shouted, and knew that things must be dire. As the boat was being swallowed, Hansel acted quickly casting globes of warm air around the heads everyone he could see. Dylanna, Derek, Chuck, Brint, and Hansel himself, all could breathe, even as the waves turned them about. But the globe of air would not hold around Rufus. Even with his concentration bending the eye patch away from Hansel's magic, the weave would not work on him directly. Meekus and Swab were out of view, and so the spell had not been cast on them.

Tumbling about in the frothing sea, Rufus was not sure which way was up. His mind was calm, but even with his long knife Hiemal protecting him, the cold was seeping in, and the lack of air was making it hard to think. As he thought he could hold his breathe no longer, a hand grabbed him by the hair, and pulled him back. Then another grabbed his collar and his hair was released. He couldn't turn enough to see who it was dragging him toward the surface, but from the corner of his eye, he swore it was the Lord Nammick Swinden. As his head broke the surface, Rufus gulped down the briny sea air.

"Yuh a'rite sayr? Don't swalluh the osheen in aw dat gulpin'."

It was Swab. The old salt had saved his life. Twice on this trip, in a span of several hours, he had been at deaths door. Twice, snatched back by his 'lessers'. Loyalty wasn't so over rated after all. It seemed to his Wolves he was more a worthy king than a filthy rogue. Thoughts for later. Rufus scanned the choppy waters for his crew. Everyone was accounted for. Even Meekus. It appeared to be bleeding from a gash in his forehead, and Chuck helped support him against a piece of wood from the now shattered Minnow. Rufus scanned further, searching out Dylanna.

Dylanna gasped as the sea reached over the sky, devouring her and the men all around her. And it was chaos, utter chaos, so at first, as the wave and waters pounded all around her,s he hadn't noticed the bubble of air until she gasped for breath, and in turn, gasped in shock. But even as seh was breathing, she stilled, realizing, she was so far beneath the surface of the water it was hard to tell where the ocean began and where the skies above her resided. And so she looked around, her head in a whirl, paddling in place as she thought frantically on what she ought to do.

Then a bolt of lightning torched the skies, reminding them that even the air was unsettled and dangerous. And it was that spark of light that reached down, even intot he depths of the dark waters to where Dylanna was sinking fast, to show her the way.

Yes, she saw it.... The surface of the water, but it seemed so terribly far away. But she had to make it, had to swim against the odds, even as an unseen cyclone of water was churning around her, just starting to form and threatening to take her down with the rest of the ship.

No, she had to keep swimming, she had to work harder until her muscles burned and her breath was aching, and the surface of the choppy waters was finally coming near. And then a piece of the ship came after her, only visible against a second burst of lightning. She hadn't the strength nor time to dodge it as it smashed into her form, winding her before all went dark.

Dylanna was nowhere to be seen, and Rufus's emotions were starting to bubble up. He was in such a panic that Rufus could barely contain his fear. Dylanna created these emotions in him, in an otherwise cold man, colder than this sea. He had lost his internal mantra of Canis Rufus, the Red Wolf. He reached for his other mantra, Ryk Handelaar, wealthy merchant. Ryk was a pragmatist and so smug and arrogant, he hoped that the persona could hold the panic at bay. But he failed almost instantly. He could not do this, he could not feel, could not lose it in front of his men. Swab had already seen him at a weaker point than most. 'I'm Theodore Wrenthins', he thought, 'a filthy rogue. I escaped the cesspool that is Zantaric. I killed the great Defalcat. I created Ryk Handelaar, and Canis Rufus. I hold two of the sacred blades.' He felt control coming back as he pushed at his fear with different emotions. Anger. Pain. Pride. Thirst for vengeance. The unbridaled insanity of the man he once was bubbled to the surface.

"Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Valeska, you BITCH! Is this the best you've got?" he screamed at the raging sky, "Not the greatest waves, not the wildest storm, can stop me from cutting out your heart this time! I will feed on you like a wolf on the lamb! You are MY prey!  Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! I'm coming for you Horst!" Leaning on a crutch he had not used in years, he had won against the fear of losing Dylanna. But at what cost?

Dylanna's limp form broke the surface then. She was bleeding from a wound in the head. Luckily Hansel had given her a pocket of air to breathe in. Rufus grabbed a hunk of floating wood as he swam over to her. Pulling her limp form up by an arm he gracelessly dumped her across the planks and lashed her to them with some loose rigging that was floating nearby. He used more of the rigging as a sort of harness and began to tow her toward shore, without a word to his men. They knew their duties, and they began to swim after him as he departed.

"I can't wait to sink my teeth into you Valeska," Rufus muttered to himself, "today you bleed."

Valeska was most certainly watching as best she could from her vantage point, eyes drifting cooly over the raging sea. When the boat had vanished, a smile stretched across her lips; but in less than ten minutes as she spotted heads dotting the ocean, and that smile twitched and faded.

"I knew you'd make this a challenge," she purred, letting a crackle of blue lightning lick between her fingers as she approached an open window, her blonde hair whipping wildly in the winds-
then she let loose a large bolt of lightning that hissed across the water like a massive serpent; it's power hotter than hell.  It was a warning shot,though if she hit or killed someone along the way, all the better.

As the lightning blast whipped by them, the swimmers flinched back, all but Theodore Wrenthis. He was mad with rage and he swam on, the adrenaline of that anger filling him with a much needed boost of energy. Horst would pay for her deeds, he would carve his revenge into her flesh. The beautiful thoughts of her tortured form fluttered through his mind like the delightful visions of candied plums children have during winter solstice. Hopefully he would manage to take her alive so he could toy with her as long as he wanted. He planned on taking her tongue first so she could not form real words. The inability to throw insults, or even to spit properly, would weaken any resolve she might retain. Then her teeth and her fingers would be removed with slow, drawn out means. He'd carve into all of her soft flesh as she was kept alive with magic. Valeska would would be praying for death when he was done with her, but it would not come. The last thing he would take from her would be her sight. He wanted her to see each implement before he used them on her, but she did not deserve to see the beauty of another sunset. Blinded, he would have her dumped in the streets of Arca to beg for ohms, forever under guard so she could never take her own life.

The Wolves at his back were feeling quite soggy, and Chuck was considering tossing his gear into the waves to lighten his load. But they knew that battle was coming, so they clung to their determination, and they swam on. They were loyal men, and they would fall for Rufus if it was demanded of them. As they neared the shore, they all scanned the beach. It was important to assess the enemy forces, and all of the men were looking for defensible positions, perhaps with cover.

Valeska was a one woman army, so there was nothing to find when they reached the shore. However, by that time, Dylanna was coming around and as she stared up at the raging storm clouds, she blinked.

A moment later she began to hear the voices of men and she sat up from where she had been laid out in the sands. For a second, she had almost forgotten herself, the mission, and her son, but as her memories pulled together, and she spotted the head thief and his men she was drawn back into reality, and everything hit her like a ton of bricks.

As much as she wanted to cry, she was thankful she was somehow alive, but as she stared around at the island, she caught sight of a light house on the opposing shore. Something in her gut told her they had to go that way- it was the only iconic figure on this island, and she did not wish to waste a single moment if it meant saving her son's life-
Though when she tried to stand up, she hadn't quite got her legs back and let out a gasp as she suddenly fell back towards the sands.

Swab was sitting in the sand near Dylanna, and when she fell down onto the sand he grimaced in sympathy. Brint and Meekus were behind some rocks with Rufus and Chuck going over some plan that the Red Wolf was scratching into the sand with a stick. Hansel and Derek were atop the rocks, Hansel holding the rain at bay around the marksman and ready to block away any attacks with magic. Derek had his eye to a spyglass that he had directed toward the lighthouse. He was calling down all the details he could see to Rufus. Swab knew he wasn't needed for any of that, and waited, watching over the Lady Swinden.

"She knows we're here so I see know reason in trying to sneak up to the lighthouse," Rufus made eye contact with each of his men to send a silent message. This was all or nothing. Win or die trying. "I say we move from cover to cover at the greatest speed we can muster," he scratched lines to different circles representing rock clusters and large vegetation. "Hansel will shield you all as you approach behind me and I will stay out in front breaking any spells flung in our path." Rufus glanced over at Dylanna. Seeing her awake and moving poked at Ryk, and Theo's insanity bled away a little bit. Rufus bit off that softness creeping into him and fueled his anger with the memory of Valeska's betrayal. More of the insanity bled away, Rufus was holding control of his emotions again. He would have to deal with Dylanna and the weakness she made in him when this was over. But for now he would keep his distance.

His prosthetic nose had suffered a bit of damage in the boat accident, and his makeup had all but washed away. Luckily he kept a bit of extra in a pouch, but the disguise was not meant for this kind of weather. He would need to limit his face time with Lanna. It would not be good if she discovered his secret. He returned his focus to the men around him. "I'm going to try and convince her to stay here with Swab. I don't need her getting in the way."

Chuck puffed out a laugh, "I don't think that's likely boss. That woman is tough as nails when it comes to her kid. No way is she hangin' back without you knockin' her out." He ended his statement with a shrug, and Rufus had to admit to himself that the Blood Wolf was probably right.

"Well I will do my best to convince her," with that, Rufus got up and walked over to Dylanna. He was not looking forward to this conversation.

It took a few moments for Dylanna's head to stop spinning, and by then, she noticed the approach of Rufus. Peering up at him, she tried to stand again, thankfully, this time, with more success.
"So what's our plan?" she inquired, cutting right to the chase. "It looks as if the only place here that woman could have taken Samuel to is that light house." And she peered at it from over her shoulder, then looked back at Rufus. It was then she noticed.. something peculiar in his gaze as she furrowed his brow and inquired.. "What? Is something wrong?"

"I want you to stay back here with Swab. You'll be safer, and I won't have to worry about you being at risk." Rufus prepared himself for what he feared was coming.

Dylanna blinked, surprised at first before the anger set in. Then she furrowed her brow, then gave a scratch to her ear as if she didn't hear him right.
"Excuse me? You seem to be forgetting something..." She said, and dared to step right up to him, getting right in his face as her eyes met to his. And there was no nonesense in her tone as she went on, "That's my son we're going after. I'm going with you." And her eyes dared him to challenge her. "This isn't negotiable."

Rufus knew this would not be easy, but he had to try. "You realize that if you die in the rescue Sam will be without a mother. Then who will care for him?"

He held is ground, not wavering under the glare Dylanna was giving him.

"Me? Shall I raise the pup if you die?"

Dylanna was taken back that he'd dare try to use that excuse on her, let alone, be a fool and toss out a joke he would raise her son. Her blood was set to broil as she bared her teeth at him, not once getting out of his face.

"This is my son we're talking about. I knew the dangers well before I set foot on this island. You will not tell me what I can or can't do here because I'm going in there. Or have you forgotten the notes asked for me?"

Rufus grimaced at that. Her being called here surely was his fault. "You were chosen to draw me out. She knew there was no other way to get to me than to threaten you. The note is not relevant any longer. I am her quarry. I will kill her and bring back Sam. You will stay."

All he could do was hope that Dylanna's fear would overpower her anger. Otherwise there was no way she'd stay behind.

"And do you take me as a fool?" And then she stared the man over before her before giving a snort through her nose. "You probably have no children of your own, so you wouldn't understand." And her eyes met dangerously to his, a wild threat there, a promise. "Hell hath no fury like a woman's scorn. That woman has nothing on me. I won't be killed so easily."
And then as her blood cooled down just a bit, she added, "Besides... I have to see him. I have to know he's ok.."
She didn't wnt someone else finding her son's corpse..
Gods.. she just hoped they weren't late.

He didn't have any children, but his fondness for her, and Sam, was almost enough to make him take extreme measures to keep her here. Rufus for a moment considered knocking Dylanna unconscious and tying her up as his Blood Wolf had suggested. That probably wouldn't go over too well, and it wouldn't be good to leave her tied up if he went off and died on his quest to save Sam. There was nothing to it, he'd have to let her tag along. If she died, Ryk would never forgive himself, but that was a bridge he'd cross if and when he came to it. It would eliminate his only weakness, but it was best he not start thinking like that.

"Fine, Lady, you may accompany us, but you will be cautious and follow any command you are given, without hesitation," he looked at Swab and the older man climbed out of the sand to stand by the Lady Swinden. "Swab will remain at your side, his words are my words. You will obey him and he will keep you safe. Or I will tie you up and leave you here until I return."

Rufus did not remain to listen to her response. He turned back toward his men and walked to them. He was sure as he approached that Brint and Meekus exchanged a smirk. This woman was showing his men that he could be bent if the right pressure was applied. He didn't like that. It would be good to have this situation dealt with as quickly as possible.

Dylanna took a step towards him, just about to let him know 'This is my son. I would see myself to the devil himself to save him.' But she never got a chance and felt the cold wind from his back side as he turned from her to return to his men. Glowering at the back of his head, she turned to Swab and let out a huff before moving to follow Rufus.

And as they were gathering on the island, Valeska knew too well of their presence, for she was watching from a nearby rock. Leaning into a fist, she gave a catlike look towards the gang of men- and the woman. Her mouth split open into a toothy grin-
and to make them all aware she was present, she gave a wave of her hand and the storm let up, some sunlight beginning to break through the clouds.

Dylanna turned away from Rufus and his men. The sudden break in the storm drew her eyes to look all around, for she didn't trust the weather, just like she didn't fully trust these men. Though as she was looking, she noticed someone ontop of a craggy rock off on the distance.

"Over there!" she shouted, pointing Valeska's way. "Someone's on that rock." And once Valeska had the men's attention, she rose up from her rock, her grin spreading wider across her lips as the wind's fury began to pick up, whipping her hair wildly about her face.

Dylanna's glare was hard as she noted the woman and could see her wicked smile all the way from where they stood.
"That's her. It must be her!" and turned to Rufus she looked him straight in the eyes. "Well, are we going to be after her or are we just going to stare?"

"Well I was thinking that staring at her with my one good eye would do the trick," Rufus stated in a flat tone. He heard Chuck snicker behind him. For such a large man, Chuck had a rather childish sense of humor.

Rufus turned back to his men and gave them the signal to get moving. They formed a wedge pushing Dylanna into the protective center and Rufus ran out in front to break up any spells slung their way. This was not going to be fun. He knew Valeska was likely not alone. She knew Rufus would bring as many men as he could, and she'd have prepared for that.

Dylanna cut a glare Rufus's way. But steeled her tongue and just fell in line with his men. Her eye were ever alert, keeping to the shadows, to the winds, even chancing a glance behind them before she turned to look at the woman. But it was odd, or so she thought, this Miss Horst was not moving from where she was perched upon her rocks.

And it gave her an odd sensation, as if she could feel something bad was about to happen. Breaking formation, she suddenly gripped onto Rufus's arm.

"Wait, we have to stop!" she commanded. "I think we might be heading right into a trap."
ANd she couldn't have called it at a better time, for the second Rufus and his men all stepped into the forested lands, a heavy rope trap came up from the ground, pulling them all into it's clutches as they hung precariously from the trees.

Dylanna, now settled somewhere int he heap between men, grunted and struggled her way through hairy limbs and dirty boots, and found herself suddenly cracking heads with Rufus. She grit her teeth and turned to him, spitting out some of her dark hair from her face.

"I told you it was a trap," she said through a few pants of breath. Her face was already flush from frustration, and her mind, in a panic. This was definitely not how she was envisioning the rescue f her son! She was already against the idea of needing to work with these criminals, but now she was forced to squirm in a heap of them.

"Who's got a sword here? Or knives? We must hurry and cut ourselves free!" but it proved a difficult task to manuever inside the net trap, and every time Dylanna moved, she'd stumble and fall, since every single man inside there was doing the same thing- and eventually, someone grabbed her rear (well, by mistake, but stilL!) and had her gasping as she shot forward, and landed most unceremoniously onto Rufus's lap.

And if her face wasn't flushed already, it surely was now.
"These are your men!" she said in a huff, after realizing she couldn't get out of his lap now that she had fallen into it. "Can't you command them to unify their efforts or something!?"

Though who knew if they'd have enough time, as the Mountain Cats showed up from the shadows, snickering and stalking forward like the beasts they were. ANd it was only out of the corner of her eye that she noticed them and gasped, and (involuntarily) clung to Rufus as she realized the situation went from bad to something much worse.

"There's about ten of them out there and they all seem to have crossbows,"s he breathed, her voice barely a whisper as she kept close to Rufus, but her eyes were on the cats. "What do we do?"

Dylanna on his lap. Oh how Ryk would love to take advantage of that situation. Right now though, he had to focus on being Rufus. Dylanna's fear was a waste of her time. They were in no real danger of these Mountain Cats. The Soot wolves were prepared for this sort of thing. Getting trapped was a good way to lure out the trappers. It was time to deal with the fools that thought they had the upper hand.

"What do we do," Rufus echoed, "we kill them of course. You might want to hold on tight. Hansel!"

The wizard wrapped the party in a swirl of wind that would deflect any crossbow bolts shot at them. As he did so Rufus pulled Hiemal from it's sheath on his hip and cut the bottom out of the net. He held Dylanna tight against his body as the net opened up, dropping as lightly as he could. All of his men were prepared and were able to easily swing free and land on their feet. Crossbow bolts were fired, but the wind did what it was supposed to and protected them from the shots. Swords were drawn, battle met. The fighting was fierce and fast. Rufus stepped around Dylanna, once again leaving her in the center of the group. Pulling Aestival from its sheath at his hip he went at the nearest Cat without relent.

OOC: It's ok XD I'll just add a quick response for Dylanna then XP
*has no patience*
---------

Dylanna made a face. What did he mean? But soon she had found out as the net was cut open and down they all fell in a rush. She clung to Rufus tightly, fearful she'd tumble to her doom, but found the man was cool and collected and landed with confidence and before she had a moment to even realize what was going on, the fight was on- and she in the middle of it. Not knowing what she should be doing,s he kept close to Rufus's side and watched as steel met to steel, her own gloved hand resting over the hilt of her sword as she hesitated but did not dare unsheathe her weapon just yet. But she couldn't lie- she was impressed at how well Rufus commanded his men and how swiftly they were all becoming locked up in battle.

Aestival and Hiemal danced in Rufus's hands, clashing against the steal of the two Cats he now faced. Thrust, parry, dodge, swing, spin, Rufus's movements looked like a dance as well. Hansel had let down the wind barrier as swords were met, and now he and Derek stood near the Lady Swinden. Hansel threw out magic projectiles and deflected hostile spells from an enemy caster as best he could, luckily any spells hurled from Rufus's direction were dispelled as they came near to him. Derek used his crossbow to make calculated shots at the enemies around them, slowing the approach of nearing enemies that were emerging from the trees. Swab was with them too, sword in hand. He stood ready to protect Dylanna, should any of the cats get through the other men.

There was no grace to the movements of Chuck. Where Rufus danced, Chuck was more like a wind storm, whipping this way and that. Axe in one hand, hammer in the other, he chopped and smashed every Mountain Cat that was foolish enough to approach him. Zahi had chosen him because of his fearsome ability with any weapon, and he displayed that now. When his axe got stuck in the skull of a fallen enemy, he wasted no time trying to retrieve it, but instead drew a large sword that would have taken most men two hands to hold. As a Cat ran past, out of his reach toward Rufus's back, Chuck threw his hammer at the man. It took him in the head, lifting him off the ground and sending him flying into another man that was also headed for the Red Wolf.

Canis Rufus, the Red Wolf, noticed this in his peripheral vision, and used the distraction to his advantage. He put Aestival into one of his opponents chests with a fearsome thrust and released his grip on the blade. He rolled to avoid the swing of the mans partner and used his now free hand to throw a fan of daggers into the men Chuck had felled, as well as a few other approaching Cats. His selection of Wolves had been partially dependent upon skill as mariners, but they were fairing exceptionally well in combat as well. None had fallen, and the Cats were nearly routed, but that couldn't last as out numbered as they were.

Brint and Meekus were laughing as they spun around each other taunting the Cats and cutting them down in droves. The two had been pirating together for years and they moved as one, knowing instinctively how to react to the movements of the other. Chuck and Rufus were laying waste to the enemy, each a solitary stone in a sea of Cats, but Brint and Meekus moved through them like light cutting through the darkness. The focus of the enemy soon changed from trying to reach Rufus to targeting what appeared to be a greater threat. Several of the Cats took aim with crossbows and fired upon the duo. Hansel knocked away the crossbow bolts and as the Cats reloaded, he threw lightning at them. It crackled along his fingers and jumped out at the men in a line, linking them like a chain. As it struck through them, it split away from one of the men, not touching him. Crossbow loaded, the Cat let fly his attack just as the Mountain Cats wizard threw an attack of his own at Hansel. Deflecting the magical spear of ice was not too difficult for Hansel, but it robbed him of valuable time and he was unable to blow away the crossbow bolt as it flew at the twirling pair of swashbucklers.

A twist of his wrist and a snap of his elbow made for a fearsome lunge, and Brint put his slender blade through the throat of yet another Cat. The ground was beginning to run thick with blood and he had to be careful not to slip as he skipped about the battlefield. What the Cats lacked in skill, and brains, they more than made up for with numbers. Meekus was laughing with each swing of his sword, clearly having as much fun as Brint. But they couldn't keep this up forever. They battled fiercely with wild abandon, it had been ages since they were in such a mad dance for survival, and it was thrilling. As a wave of crossbow bolts flew at them they felt a spike of adrenaline and looked at each other, thinking this the end, but a powerful gust of wind saved them, and lightning crackled through the enemy ranks, laying waste to the archers. Brint and Meekus let out a simultaneous hoot of excitement and started back up with renewed fervor, twirling about and giggling like children. They'd have to buy Hansel a few rounds when this was all over. The two pirates eyes met in childish glee but the look of joy melted from Brint's face as he saw the bolt coming through the air. He moved to push his friend, but was too late. The shaft took Meekus in the throat and his happy expression was replaced with one of pain and fear. Brint was frozen in time, the moment before his friend crumpled to the ground lasting a lifetime. Laughs turned to a roar of rage, and Brint was like a man possessed, chopping into the Cats as they came his way. Gone was the grace of his spinning, twirling dance, replaced with powerful chops and thrusts, no longer avoiding the blades of his enemies. He took many hits, the swords and knives cutting into his flesh, his blood running free. As his hand was coated in his own blood, his grip grew slick, the loss of blood making him weak. He thrust the scimitar into another cats chest, but lacked the strength to retrieve it as the man fell. Without a sword of his own, he balled his fist and tried to punch the nearest brigand. He was no longer a threat and the Mountain Cat easily moved aside, plunging his long knife deep in Brint's back. He fell to the ground, the last of his blood spilling into the earth, his eyes trained on the still form of Meekus as he slipped into deaths embrace.

Rufus saw the lightning Hansel threw bend around the now lone archer. There were few magical items that would do that, and there was one in particular he was searching for. Rufus scrutinized the archer as best he could from where he was fighting. The man definitely had a sickle hanging at his hip, it couldn't be a coincidence. He had the Autumn blade Carpere.

"Chuck!" Rufus yelled to the large man, and when the Blood Wolf looked his way, he pointed to the archer. Chuck nodded his understanding and headed toward his target, holding his large sword in two hands, hewing anyone who got in his path.

From afar, Valeska reveled in the fight, purring at the sight and sounds of blood shed. Men's cries echoed, both dieing, both angry- and the kiss of steel to steel sent a thrill through her veins. She moved about the rock side now, stalking along it like a panther ready to strike,but kept her distance, even if she wanted to rush right on in there and tear Rufus's heart out.

But she knew better- she wanted to toy with her meal before gobbling him up whole. So she cast a wicked and impatient gaze his way, and just let the storm roll around in the heavens above.




Stuck in the middle, Dylanna found herself suddenly in the fray. Pulling out her sword, she was quick to fend off the men that got near her- but was finding, as she danced along, not many could. Rufus kept a relatively tight shield of men around her, and it seemed they all would be prepared to lay their lives down for her.

But why? Was it for her- or him? She spared a glance his way and watched how he commanded his men and held himself on the battle field. SHe bit her lip, finding herself impressed as she skirted along and kept her eyes open for any possible break in the line-
But then it happened, and she wasn't exactly sure how, but an arrow was coming her way- though she wasn't sure if it was for her, or him. For in that moment she was nearly pressed up against Rufus's back, a mountain cat having broken through the line and forced her to draw her blade and step back-

ANd just as she was swinging her blade up to block an attack she felt it as she let out a cry-
The arrow had struck her, and the pain was intense. And that wasn't all- for in that split moment, the mountain cat that was slashing at her readied his blade for one final strike- to cut down the woman right then and there as she was collapsing towards the sandy grasses in pain.

And it was only as she lifted her gaze from her bloodied wound did she see the blade coming for her and she knew it was the end.

Distracted by the sickle Carpere hanging from the belt of a Mountain Cat, Rufus missed the arrow coming at them. Dylanna had moved too close to him, and Hansel could no longer protect her with magic. The arrow struck her and she fell to the ground, a Cat bearing down on her hard. It was nearly the end for the woman, but the Red Wolf was quick. Aestival came up quick and hard in an underhand swing, severing the mans hand at the wrist. Heimal came across as hand was freed from arm and struck the sword hard knocking it back toward the face of its recent wielder. As it took him in the eye, Rufus pivoted, performing a high kick, thrusting the sword through the mans head and throwing him back.

"Hansel, I need a bubble!" Rufus yelled to the mage for defense as he concentrated on suppressing the power of his eye patch. It wouldn't last long, but it would give Rufus just enough time to tend to Dylanna. He bent over her and grabbed hold of the arrow shaft. Luckily it had gone all the way through, which made extracting it simple. He snapped off the back of the arrow and pulled it the rest of the way through. Before they left on the boat, what seemed like days before, Rufus had rounded up supplies for the voyage. While most had been lost in the shipwreck, the potions on his hip remained intact. He unstoppered one now and gave it to Dylanna. It would knit her flesh as well as the one he'd given her in Arca, and leave her feeling renewed. Once he had put it in her hand, he was on the move.

"You three keep her safe," he yelled to his remaining Wolves as he rushed off in the direction Chuck had gone. Luckily the number of Cats was quickly dwindling and it would not take much for Swab, Hansel, and Derek to protect her.

As Rufus was saving and then tending to the Lady Swinden, Chuck was slaughtering the last few Mountain Cats near him. Only one man stood between him and the Archer now. A slim dark-skinned elf holding a dirk and longsword combination danced toward the large Blood Wolf. His feet moved quickly and spun the blades in his hands effortlessly. Chuck grinned and waded in. Chuck was larger and stronger but not nearly as fast as the drow while wielding his great sword in two hands. He was smart though, he made small moves, parrying and dodging, remaining patient for his opportunity. The elf played to his size and speed. He'd step in and drum on Chucks great sword, sending vibrations into his hands, slash at his arms creating superficial cuts. The bleeding and the vibrations were adding up, Chuck couldn't hold out for long, not after all the fighting he'd already done. He had to make his move soon. He pushed forward at the dark elf, punching his hilt toward his opponents face. The elf did as Chuck expected, stepping at an inside angle to be inside his reach. There was no way Chuck could get a strong swing in on the man and the obvious move would have been to step back in to a defensive position. Instead the Blood Wolf brought the pummel of his sword down with all his might on the hand the elf held his sword in. The drow stabbed forward with his dirk, impaling it into Chuck, just as his longsword was knocked away. Before he could withdraw the short blade, Chuck dropped his great sword and grabbed ahold of the dark elf's wrist. There was nowhere he could go now. Chuck reeled back and punched his opponent right in the face with all his might. With nowhere to go, and his arm tightly in Chucks grip, the force of the punch broke the skinny drow's neck. Better than a one punch knockout, Chuck had achieved a one punch kill. That would be a story he'd be happy to recant for any woman that it might impress.

Rufus arrived just in time to see the powerful punch end the Mountain Cat's life. He quirked an eyebrow at Chuck who just grinned and pulled the dirk from his gut. The black life blood that poured from the wound told the two men that Chuck would have been short for this world had they not had the foresight to bring more potions. Chuck drank down one of the two from his hip, and was on the move beside Rufus, Great Sword in hand, rushing for that archer. Rufus couldn't see any other Cats around, and the archer seemed to notice that as well, as he turned tail and began to flee. Rufus was not about to let Carpere escape him though and he threw his long knife at the cowards back. As Heimal spun through the air, Rufus held his breath in anticipation. When the blade found its mark, he felt this burst of exile ration and excitement at now having a third of the seven blades. Upon reaching the Mountain Cat, lying there gasping for breath, Rufus pulled Heimal from his back and the stripped Carpere and its sheath from around the mans waist. Rufus crouched down next to the man, sheathing his blades and strapping his new sickle to his waist.

"Where did you get this," he asked the man, lifting his head by the hair. Blood gurgled from his mouth as he tried to speak, and he knew to get answers he'd have to keep the man alive. He reached for a potion, and rolling the man onto his back he forced it down his throat. As the wound began to mend, Rufus bound the mans hands and feet together. He didn't need him struggling now that he'd be fully healed. With full recovery close at hand, Rufus asked him again, shaking the jewel hilted sickle that was now on his hip.

"Where did you get Carpere?"

The healed mountain cat only spit on Rufus's face. He wasn't going to tell him anything. Though the dog's had slaughtered them, there was nothing left for him to lose. Though from a distance, Valeska watched the numbers dwindle with a frown. Seemed Rufus brought his best men. She cursed at that. Oh well- the mountain cats greatly out numbered his men- but honestly, she had hoped for a better fight.

Feeling herself grow angered, Valeska cracked a sharp and powerful bolt of lighting from the sky across his men- hoping to remind them who was really in charge here.
And it was about this time Dylanna had  taken the potion, and was ready to knock it back- when a massive bolt of lighting struck from over head and Dylanna dropped the bottle-a nd it smashed, untouched, at her feet. The magic cast around her continued to protect, but the fear was evident and real in her eyes.

"By the Gods.." she whispered, one hand clutching her arrow wound, the other one fixated upon the sky. And just as it seemed the bolt of lighting had disappeared, a second, blinding one came cracking across the group like a massive whip, as if the God Zeus himself were trying to smite them all.

"Chuck," Rufus said, pointing at the prisoner. As the Red Wolf dashed off back toward the others, Chuck picked the Mountain Cat up and tossed him over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. When he approached, the magic around them dissipated. His eyepatch created a small bubble of anti magic. Rufus knew that he could not be sure that he would not be separated from Dylanna, so he did something he normally would not dare. He removed the red wolf head emblazoned eye patch, revealing that he had two perfectly good eyes, and put it on Dylanna. She didn't need a full lesson on how she could bend the protection with concentration, all that mattered was the greater purpose.

"Whatever happens, do not remove this," he told her, as he adjusted it over her left eye, "it will protect you from magic and stop the use of magic within your immediate presence." He knew he was safe from lightning with Carpere hanging at his hip, so he was not overly worried about the Storm Witch smiting him down. Rufus noticed that Dylanna was still bleeding, and saw the broken potion on the ground. "Don't drop this one," he told her as he handed her his last potion. He left her then, heading over to the two fallen Wolves. He took the two potions each carried, attaching two to his belt and giving two to Swab. "If she gets injured," he said to the old salt, and swab simply nodded.

"Lets continue to the lighthouse," Rufus said to everyone. "Once we enter combat, Hansel, you'll have to keep your distance from the Lady Swinden if you plan on casting any spells. If anyone sees any lightning headed their way, get close to Dylanna or put me between you and it." As secretive as he preferred to be, survival was more important, and today it wouldn't be easy. He turned from his crew, knowing they would not respond, only accept his words and be ready. It was time to rescue Sam. The child he didn't even know was his own son.

Dylanna took the second potion without questioning, and found with some relief- her wound was healing and her body- feeling renewed. She peered over at Rufus, wondering- curiously, who he was as a hand slipped over to feel the leathery surface of the eye patch. It still felt strange to her- that he'd go through all of this trouble for her father, but there was something else- something she couldn't quite put her tongue on-
something... oddly familiar about this man.

But she kept silent and simply obeyed his orders. He very well could have saved her life,a nd he was- after all, here to help her rescue her son. So quietly, she moved among the men, but as her eyes searched the area- Valeska, who had once been perched upon the rocks- was gone.

The edge of the wooded area was not far, and Rufus was surprised that they didn't run into any other opposition. Now that they were clear of the trees, just a few yards of rocky terrain, with a small foot path cut up the middle, stood between them and the lighthouse. That's where Valeska likely was, and Samuel as well. They needed to get there as smoothly as possible, and fast. Remaining in the open would leave them easy targets for spells or ranged weapon fire.

"Chuck, put that fool between those rocks, and knock him out." The large Blood Wolf complied quickly. Without a word Rufus ran forward as fast as he could. He would soon have that bitch on the end of his blade. He'd make up for not killing her the last time he'd seen her.

While the man approached the light house, Valeska's heels clicked against the stone floors. The door opened with a creak, and she was greeted by a soft growl from Samuel's wolf pup.

"Careful, Lightning, the witch has returned!" Samuel warned his dog and gave the strange mean lady a glare.

"Lightning?" she gave a curious tilt to her head as she approached the pair and crouched before them on bended knees. "An interesting name- is that what you call your dog?"

"He's a wolf!" Samuel told her, jutting out his chin and giving an extra puff to his chest. "And I named him after the scary lightning you make- because... " And here the boy faltered as Valeska's smile grew toothily across her face. "Because.." and he clenched his small hands into fists as he grew brave. "He is stronger than your powers!"

And the wolf made a curious whimper at that, but kept a growl rumbling within it's throat.

Valeska chuckle and reached a hand forward and simply pet the wolf pup's head.

"And what of me? You call me a witch..?"

"That's because you are!" Samuel blurted. Valeska smirked and continued to pet the wolf pup.

"Indeed."

When Rufus made it to the Lighthouse, he was amazed that the rest of the group was so close behind. They had made it without incident. Perhaps Valeska was waiting for a face to face fight now. He waited for them to catch up, and when they did he stepped up to Dylanna.

"I will be taking the patch back now that we're her," he reached up and gently drew it from her head, "you will wait out here. You all will. I will face her alone. With this," he tapped the patch as he put it back on, "I'll be safe from magic, and with this, he tapped the sickle that now hung at his hip, "I will be safe from all lightning. If I should perish, you will all work together to save Sam." Rufus turned to Chuck then.

"If I fall Chuck," he took out a tiny black book and handed it to the big Blood Wolf, "the magical seal on this will break. You are to use what's inside to protect the Swinden Family for the rest of your days." He made a small cut in his thumb and put it out at Chuck, "swear it." Chuck, at first reluctantly, drew a knife and cut his own thumb in the same way. Then seeing the fervor in his leaders exposed eye, he grew steadfast.

"I swear." He pressed his cut into that of the Red Wolf and a spark burned away the blood. Some hidden magical item Rufus carried sealed the contract between the two men. Chuck could not turn away from his oath without a painful death curse falling upon him. Rufus turned back to Dylanna, and against his better judgment he kissed the woman with all the passion he had for her.

"Wish me luck," was all he said as he turned and went to the door that may lead to his death.

Dylanna's anxiety had been through the roof, and she hadn't realized she had been gripping on painfully tight to her weapon until Rufus approached her about the eye patch. Peering up at him, she found herself numbly staring ; for she had no idea what awaited them inside- but when he kissed her, her breath was taken away and in that moment, nothing else existed by his lips, their heart beat, and one frantic glimpse of something she desired so long ago.

Upon release, she stared at his form with dizzy remorse and confusion. What had just happened? What warranted a kiss? And why was the sensation so familiar? She was so caught off guard she found herself unable to retort, and after he was already a good distance away, her wavering lips finally stuttered, "Good luck."

By the Gods- what was she to do now? Pray? She peered up in the heavens, which were thick and heavy with storm- and the moment Rufus approached the Lighthouse door, it began to pour.

Rufus was eager to get this over and done with. Valeska was not a thorn he expected to find under foot. Her return from the dead had vexed him, but he had known deep down that she yet liked. He had shown her mercy, because of what he perceived her feelings to be. He did not wish to make a mockery of her love for him, but she had broken the one rule that could never be broken. Nammick Swinden had been his only friend, and his daughter the only woman he loved. It was not chance that he had run into her again after these years of silence. Spending time with the young Lady Einin Beirne, had made the memories of Dylanna, and her stubborn behavior, fresh in his mind. Owl had unwittingly set Ryk Handelaar down the path to trying to get back into Dylanna's life. This was not what he had in mind though.

He approached the door with Aestival and Hiemal in his hands. The sickle, Carpere, need not be drawn to cast it's protection on him. Not magic or lightning would strike at him. Valeska could not rely on her new powers in this fight. She'd have to stand against with her weapon in hand. Rufus lifted his booted foot and kicked the door with all the force he could muster. It may have been unlocked, unbarred, and untrapped, but he wanted to send the message that he was fully committed to the use of force. He stepped inside, ready to kill Valeska, or die trying.

Who, or what, rather, that greeted him must've been a surprise, for the moment the door was kicked open, the little wolf pup he had bought Samuel during the festival came charging at him, tail wagging. Though upon seeing the anger in the man's eyes had the wolf's ears pinned back, and his tail, drooping between his legs as it slowly wagged. It gave a whine before laying down at the man's feet and it was this little puppy that stood between Rufus and the spiraling staircase that curled upwards into the room above. And it was up there were- more than likely, Valeska was waiting for Dylanna's knight in shining armor.

Not but a moment later- Samuel's small voice carried down the stair case as he called after his pup.
"Lightning."
But Valeska's voice soon joined his- and though her words were indistinguishable at the base of the light house, the closing of the door was not and soon, the staircase fell silent, except for the soft whimpers from the wolf pup.

Rufus sheathed his blades and bent to pet, and then pick the little wolf up. He had heard Sam call out, and knew instinctively that the word, Lightning, was the animals new name. Running to the top of the stairs had left Valeska with no place to go once Rufus ascended behind her. She had the boy with her, so there was no way around this encounter. Rufus would have preferred to stalk her and get to know all he could before he went in for the kill.

Rufus turned about to find that SWab had wandered his way to the door. He must have seen Rufus just standing there and wondered why he was not moving forward. Now that he was here, Rufus handed the scrappy pup to the old pirate.

"Here, take Lightning," he gave the wolf one last scratch behind the ears, "Valeska has gone up with the boy. I will pursue them. You can bring everyone in out of the elements."

Rufus wasted no time, now that he was inside. He began to climb the stairs quickly, taking them two at a time. He'd skewer the witch like a pig on a spit, and roast her corpse to be sure the job was finished.

When Rufus would reach the top, he'd find the door closed- but not locked, and Valeska standing with a burning torch in one hand- the child in the other, a rough grip upon his arm. In the center, an unlit furnace that appeared dormant, remained a hulking figure that seperated him from the Vaelska as Valeska smirked at hearing Rufus's approach. And when he'd enter the door, her smile would be waiting for him- wickedly stretching across her face.

"Hello, Rufus." Her words came out in a dangerous purr as Samuel caught sight of someone and gasped. He wasn't sure if he ought to be afraid- as the man wore an eye patch, similar to the pirates in the story his mother used to tell him, and he clung to Valeska's side instead of fought her grip, as he cowered while the flames lapped over his head from the torch Valeska so precariously held in her hand.

Valeska's eyes took Rufus in, even the milky, scarred one as it followed his form over appreciatively.
"My, my, you came all this way alone?" She tsked at the idea. "That's a pity. I was hoping to meet your son's mother and kill you both. Though maybe I'll let you both live and kill your son instead. Wouldn't that be fun? To live with that on your conscience for the rest of your days?" And a knife was produced to the child's throat as her eyes gleamed dangerously.

"Don't make any sudden moves, Rufus, or I will cut him. Now, drop your weapons like a good boy and maybe we can make... an arrangement."

Samuel, not realizing this had been the plan all along, began to sob in her grasp- but was too terrified to move. The blade as his throat was sharp and the fear- so very evident in the boy's too blue eyes.

Lay down his weapons? Absurd, Valeska was a cornered rat. She had nowhere to go. She wasn't the one with the power to negotiate here. His son? He cared for the boy, yes, but it was ridiculous to think - no, it couldn't be. Dylanna would not be so cruel as to keep his son from him. Valeska was making connections that weren't there.

"The boy is not mine," Rufus told her, "that is not what this is about. You know my rules, and you were punished once for breaking them before. I will not abide it again." He took a step toward the furnace never taking his eye off the Witch, "the boys grandfather was a close friend. I swore to myself to protect his family from my world, and you've crossed that line again. I'll gut you myself for it this time. Now put the boy down and let him go down to his mother and I'll make your death quick and painless, hurt the boy even slightly and I'll draw out your torture for months. I've got new techniques for that, and accommodations that will seal your magic away. The Lady Swinden yet remains to produce another heir. This boy, regrettably, is expendable."

The thought that Sam might be his son, something he had not considered before, was now implanted in his mind. If he showed his doubts now though, or wavered in the slightest, the boy could be doomed. While his words were true, he was fond of little Samuel, and he did not want the boy harmed. Nevertheless, he would not negotiate. If Sam died, it would be a tragic loss, but Dylanna would recover, and so would he. Either way, he was determined Valeska would not survive this encounter.

"Expendable?" The woman's face lit up with glee as she pressed the blade against the boy's throat. "I'm sure your pretty faced lover would adore that one. Wait until I tell her how her boy squealed when I cut open his throat- and it was you who invited it."

"Lover? She's much too intelligent to be my lover. You know I prefer them dumb as rocks. Like you. I mean if you're going to cut his throat you should move your blade further to his left, otherwise I'll have enough time to gut you, save his life, and keep you alive as well for more fun later. You don't wanna spend months being tortured to death for 'almost' killing the grandson of my close friend. How pathetic are you?"

Valeska's smirk cracked across her face wider as her eyes shone with a dark gleam.
"All the more reason it will hurt you better than my killing Miss Swinden right away. You're not the only one who loves torture," she cooed.

"And I'll revel in the moment when I'm the one to tell her all about this- what happened to her son, how you refused to aid in his release and said her boy was... hrmm.. what was the word? Ah, yes-  'expendable'." Her grip on the blade tightened, as did her sinister smile.

"And it won't end there as I continue to torture her. Long days of sleepless nights, more ruined cargo ships- maybe even a freak accident out at sea. And her child?" She laughed darkly.
"You think he'll recuperate well after this? And how do you think Lady Swinden will treat you? You might have known her father but I've seen how she acts around you. Makes me wonder how close you actually were." She purred at the thought.

"And Rufus.. just how do you propose to keep this dance up?" Her eyes danced at the idea they could drag this out for years. "How many men's live will you continue to risk for her before your own wolves sniff you out? It's not difficult for strength to shatter- Rufus. All you have to do is plant the seed of doubt. And the walls come crumbling down."

Rufus actually laughed. Valeska thought she was going to leave here alive and get to Dylanna to torture her.

"You are delusional," he said through his laugh, "Have you tried to reach for your magic since I came up? You'll find that you can't. And thanks to one of your minions, lightning now will have no affect on me. Whether or not you kill the boy, you won't leave here alive unless you can fly." Rufus sheathed both his blades and pulled a throwing knife into each hand. "I'm stronger, faster, and far better with a blade than you could hope to match. I am going to gut you like a fish and leave you in the sun to rot."

Rufus took aim, with each blade. When he threw, one would go for her hand, the other her face. He'd wait for just the right moment. Hopefully he could save the boy, but his goal here was more focused on the death of the Storm Witch.

Unfortunately for Rufus, Valeksa knew what games he played. And she was not unfamiliar with his magic shielding eye patch. And also, it was unfortunate both saw the child as disposable because in that next moment, that's what he became- and the boy let out a cry when the knives sunk into him, Valeska using him as a human shield as her eye danced wildly at the terrorizing thrill that Rufus could very well be killing his own child.

She let out a bark of a laugh and threw down crude oil into the furnace in the center of the limestone light house and then stuck a flame. No magic was needed in her swift movements and soon, the middle of the house was in a roar of dancing flames.

Though Rufus would be advancing on her like a dog, she used that to her advantage and made her way swiftly aroudn the fires and towards the light house steps- leaving the bleeding body of the boy behind and slamming the door behind her in her wake. Thankfully, she had this thought out and threw the bolt across the door, ceiling 'father and son' inside with the roaring flames. Though as she made it to the stairs in one piece herself for a quick get away, she was greeted by none other than Dylanna Swinden as she was rushing up the stairs.

The green eyed merchant peered up at the one eyed warrioress and noted the blood as she held up her sword.
"My child! What have you done to him?"

And Valeska only laughed and startled Dylanna not only with an attack, but with the revelation, "Rufus killed him."
Stunned, Dylanna faltered with only enough of a second for Valeska to strike in ward, to kick away her sword and to use her own blade to press against Dylanna's throat.

"Keep walking down the steps girly or you'll be soon joining the rest."

Rufus threw the knives through the flames at the Storm Witch and rushed around the furnace drawing his blades as he went. The woman fled around the other way it seemed, and he was disappointed to get to gut her as quickly as he hoped. There was Sam though, on the floor, his life blood draining from the wounds in his flesh. Luckily the Red Wolf had taken the potions from his fallen allies. He dropped his blades and pulled the boy into his arms, quickly pouring half a potion in the boy's mouth. He held him as the wounds knit shut, stroking the boys hair.

"It'll be okay Sam, I've got you."

The shock of healing was a lot for the boy, and he passed out. It was probably better that way. Rufus was beginning to feel the heat, so he grabbed up his blades and slid them in their sheaths. Immediately the heat abated, and Rufus carried Sam around to the door. He knew the door would be barred, but he tried it anyway. Then He set down Sam, placing the flame warding blade across his unconscious form, and began to work at the hinges with a dagger. If he could break them, he could get out and be after Valeska.

---

Below, Chuck was rushing up behind Dylanna as she came face to face with the Storm Witch. Hansel and Derek right behind stopped quickly and readied themselves for what they feared was coming.

Valeska flashed the boys a wicked grin and kept her blade at Dylanna's throat.
"Down the steps. All of you. ANd be out of my way. Any peep out of any of you and she'll die gurgling on her own blood."

The men all did as commanded, but Swab, who had not yet started up the stairs slipped out the tower unnoticed and waited just outside. He'd strike at Valeska from behind as she exited. Chuck was not pleased by these events. If he could just get his hands around the woman's throat, he'd wring the life out of her.

---

Above, Rufus struggled with the hinges. They had been made very well, and were more than just a barrel hinge. A mortise hinge was going to be more difficult to break, he couldn't just leverage the door off. Finally he felt the pin in the first one crack and he was able to shimmy it out. Just two more to go, but it was getting hot in there, so he'd have to work fast.

Once the men backed out of her way, she pushed Dylanna forward, holding her by hair and throat and commanded, "Get to walking."

And the two women were fast, and were down and out of the light house in seconds. She dind't notice Swab, but she might not have to, as she was quick to make her way from the Light House, Dylanna still in her clutches as she began to observe all the men around her with her remaining, wild eye.

Swab had planned on bashing Valeska with a rotted plank he'd picked up from the ground. He had the opportunity, as the storm witch exited, but with the blade so close to Dylanna's throat he was worried the strike would cause accidental slicing of the throat. Instead he gave chase, following as quickly as his old lags could carry him. Soon Chuck came barreling after and the other men soon followed. They would not let her get away. Even if they could make no move to save her, they could be prepared if an opportunity presented itself.

---

The heat was getting to Rufus now. The light house furnace would surely have baked Sam by now, if not for the magic of the blade. Finally, the Red Wolf broke through the remaining hinges on the door. Without them in place, he was able to swing the door in the wrong direction, with some effort, and undid the bar that crossed it. Without it in place the door fell down, and Rufus retrieved his blade and picked up his son. He rushed out, and down the stairs, stumbling a few times, but not releasing his grip on the boy. He found nobody waiting for him at the bottom of the stairs, so he exited. He could see Swab, hobbling along at his fastest pace in the distance, and broke into a run to catch the old salt. He had Sam, safe and sound, now he needed to end this.

Noting how the men were following her, cautious like the wolves they were, her gaze narrowed at them as she turned around, and pressed the blade even closer to Dylanna's throat.
"You might all want to keep back- especially you, Swab." For he was one of the few men of this lot she didn't entirely hate- though truthfully, she did loathe them all. "Unless you don't mind some petty little blood shed all over this woman's corpse." And she pressed the dagger even closer to her throat, an action that drew just a little bit of blood as Dylanna's once stone cold expression broke as she released a breath at the sensation of blood.

But upon seeing her son in Rufus's arms as the man stumbled out of the light house, she released a  held breath and felt herself tremble and her eyes sparkle with tears.

"Listen to what she has to say!" Dylanna commanded, though she hoped she sounded more authoritative and confident than she felt. But with Samuel safe- she cared not for her own life anymore, so long as he would live.

"Yes..." Valeska purred, her gaze becoming more smug upon Rufus when he appeared. "Listen to the woman and maybe I won't kill her in front of her own child."

Huffing and puffing his way to the group, that had now slowed as Valeska backed away with Dylanna, Rufus trotted up with Sam in his arms to catch the last sentence the witch said. He passed the unconscious boy to Chuck. The large man cradled Sam with surprising tenderness. Rufus, now with his hands free pulled a throwing knife into each and stepped through his men.

"You slit the boys throat and he yet lives. He sleeps from the ordeal, but he will be well," Rufus twirled the dagger he held in his right hand and grinned. "All of these men carry potions of equal strength to the one that saved the child. I'm going to skewer you like a pig now, and even if you cut her throat, we will mend it. You're mine now witch. I have won the day. I will take great pleasure in slicing you apart piece by piece. The first thing I plan on taking is that eye. That way all your tortures will be greater for what you imagine them to be."

Valeska laughed, an awkward, musical sound as she pressed the dagger even closer to Dylanna's flesh.
"WHo said she'd be able to even drink your potion with how deep I'd gut her?" the woman purred.

And it was only a beat later that Dylanna, the captive, responded. And she was shocked and upset Samuel had gotten hurt- slit his throat even, so the next set of words came out were stuck between frustration, fear and rage.

"D-do as she says, Rufus," Dylanna sputtered out. "For this isn't your throat she is threatening." And she knew the consequences well in advanced before marching upt hose steps- and that reason was laying in an unconscious heap that brought tears to her eyes. "Please, back away!" If anything, she was at least grateful Samuel was alive- but give her a moment, she didn't need Rufus. This bitch would pay by her own hands. No one took a Swinden alive without consequences!

Rufus stood in place, daggers in hand, finding himself filled with dread. When Valeska had Sam, he was unhappy, and angry, but there was no dread. Now with a knife to Dylanna's throat, he was terrified. Now was not the time to have to confront his emotions. He had them locked down. This just was not the right time. He looked into her eyes, and he knew he could not let her go. It wasn't an option. He would die before he let Valeska take the one woman he had ever loved.

"I won't let her take you Lanna," Rufus said to her, using the affectionate name Ryk used for her. "I won't. I'll die first," he directed his next words to the witch with the knife. "If you harm her Valeska, I will keep you alive for years, and subject you to the worst tortures I can imagine. You will beg to die every day as I flay your skin off and then restore it, time and time again."

Valeska simply laughed, a cruel noise that echoed into the purring storm winds around them.
"Lanna? How very cute," she cooed, her cheek now pressed up closely to Dylanna's. Her eyes danced as she took in the desperation in Rufus's features and the knife remained where it's presence was most powerful. "I never knew you gave such nick name's to your lovers."

And though while Valeska was amused with it all, Dylanna's expression was very evidently confused- for only one man had ever used that name towards her, and she found herself gaping. No way. Was Rufus also Ryk Handalaar? Or.. did these two men somehow share some sort of secret she did not know? But a wicked flash of lighting brought her back to the reality of the situation, and she steeled herself in Valeska's grasp.

"If you're going to take me away with you, I'd suggest you do it now," Dylanna warned, having only but one thing in mind- and that was the safety of her son. And she knew Valeska was cornered now, there wasn't much left for any plans of escape- for a storm mage or not, and the skies over head began to darken as they crazed woman continued to drag Dylanna off, her glare defiant upon Rufus.

"You might want to stop right there," Valeska warned. "Unless you want Lanna's head dangling off her neck."

Rufus freed up a hand by sliding its dagger back in its secret place. Then he drew the dagger in his other hand across his palm, drawing a deep red line of blood. Then that dagger vanished up his sleeve as well. He pulled a potion from his belt and uncorked it with his teeth. He dripped a few drops across his new cut, and then wiped the blood away and held it out for Valeska to see.

"Drinking the potion gets it to your center so that it can spread the healing throughout the body. Cut her throat and I'll pour this across the wound. She need not swallow it you bitch. Now when I put a dagger in your hand in a few moments you'll likely cut into the Lady Swinden's neck, but she'll recover and I'll have won. Prepare to die." Rufus tossed the potion to Derek, who was standing close. "Be ready with that." He then pulled the two throwing knives back out and took aim. He'd be throwing his blade close to Dylanna's face and neck, but he was confident of his aim.

She couldn't believe he went for it, and neither could Valeska. She had been counting on utilizing his only weakness against him. But perhaps she was wrong? Or miscalculated. And with a cry of pain as the daggers sunk into her, she shoved Dylanna into the dirt and bolted. In consequence, Dylanna's throat had been cut, and as she slapped a hand across her bleeding throat, Valeska was already far enough outside of the.magical shield that she could feel.her powers come back to her. And in her rage she summoned a bolt of lighting so bright it would blind them all as she hurled it their way, trying to take down whoever she could before disappearing completely in the aftermath of her rage.

Dylanna fell to the dirt and Rufus pulled another dagger to throw at the Witch as she fled. Lightning crackled at him, and though everyone was within his protective field, even Rufus flinched back. The dagger he had flung out at her was caught in the strike, and flung back, charged with electricity, nearly taking Hansel in the face. Only missed him by a hair, and the crackle of energy stung at his ear.

Rufus was down on Dylanna in a second pulling her to him and putting his hand out to Derek. The potion went into his hand already opened, and he was pouring it into her mouth with haste. Thoughts of pursuing Valeska came late, his head came up from looking down as he cradled the woman he loved in his arms.

"See if you can track that bitch, but don't get to close. I wanna know how she gets off the island, I didn't see any other boats when we swam ashore."

Hansel, Derek, and Swab jogged off to see what they could see. Chuck brought Sam over to his mother, as the boy was beginning to rouse. Just then the little wolf, forgotten in the chaos, found its way to its master, and started whimpering.

Fear became her as the sting of blood gushed from her wound, seeping through her fingers as she blanched at the pain. She wasn't even sure how it happened, for it happened so fast. The potion was drank, and she, clinging tightly to his arms as she shook with sobs.
"Gods!" She exclaimed, eyes rolling with tears. She was alive, the woman was gone and...

"Samuel!" She clung to the passed out child fiercely and sobbed over his form the second he was.given to her. "Oh, Samuel. Gods, Samuel."
And the moment Lightning joined their sides, he released a whimper and licked at the boy's face. But before Dylanna could shoo the wolf away, she gasped as he.began to awaken.
"Samuel!" And soon she was smothering her son with hugs and kisses so fierce, the boy found himself dizzy.
"What happened?" He asked, big,blue eyes peering up at his mother.
"You have been rescued, Samuel. Mr. Rufus Herr saved you."
The boy timidly rubbed at his eyes as he observed Rufus in silence.

Dylanna was never more happier than she was that day. And she had a 'wolf' to thank for it. Peering over at Rufus, she brushed a dark strand of hair from her face.
"I owe you so much for saving him." She said, tears streaming down her face. "Samuel is my life. I'd be lost without him. We'd be both lost without you."

Dylanna, his love, was safe, the boy was safe, the wolf even escaped unscathed. Rufus was grateful and Dylanna's gratitude was well recieved, but as Sam woke, and looked up at Rufus, Rufus found him staring into Sam's eyes, his eyes. He gave a silent signal to Chuck, and the mountain of a man made himself scarce. The three of them were alone now, and the expression Rufus had now as he looked at Dylanna was very serious. He reached up and pulled down his eye patch letting it hang around his neck so they would keep its protection.

"Look at my eyes Lanna," he said in a serious tone, "who is Sam's father?"

Had it been any other time, any other moment she would have lied, refused. But after such a tiring day and being so long in fear of losing her son; it just about broke the once proud woman apart. Especially as she peered back into his blue eyes and realized the truth. If there was doubt before, doubt was no more as she pressed her lips together and told him,

"Ryk.." she said carefully, her eyes never leaving his. "Samuel is your son."

He already knew the answer now, in his bones, her pause the look on her face. The emotions in him were riling. Then she said it.

"Samuel is your son."

He was struck dumb for a moment, but no longer. His boy, he was beautiful, and gentle, and loved. A tear escaped his eye, running down the soot and grime on his face. He smiled, a wide, genuine smile. Luckily the boy was not old enough, or smart enough, to really understand the importance of the moment, his son could not know he was a villain. A million thoughts ran a million directions, and then he noticed the fear in Dylanna's eyes. Fear? But why? Perhaps she thought he would reject them, or take revenge for the deceit. Those sort of things were far from his mind though. Rufus had already kissed Dylanna once, and so he had no problem doing it again. He kissed her, deep, passionate, with all his love coming forth, and more tears slowly fell from his eyes. He loved her, loved his son. He pulled back from her and stared into her eyes.

"You should have told me, you silly woman. This is," Ryk paused, his Rufus persona slipping away completely. "This is splendid. Mary me Lanna, please. Marry me, and let us be a family. It's what Nammick wanted you know. Us, together. I love you Lanna. Really truly I do, I always have. Please. Let Sam know his father."

If Rufus thought he was dumb struck, Dylanna had no idea what to say or what to even do. For the moment she spotted the tear and the sudden over whelming change of his expression, she was swept away. A moaned escaped her, softly as they kissed, for it had been many years since she had experienced a moment like that, and a passion like that that she hadn't even realized she was naturally kissing him back. But the second she was free of his lips, and her breath returned to her, she stared at him, dizzy and confused and  so many emotions rushed within her.

Fear, love, regret, confusion, all of them clearly painted upon her face. And she had almost missed all that he said, and it only came to her ears well after he had spoke it.

"I..." her voice was croaky, and it's volume barely reaching her ears. She hadn't even known she was shaking, that was, until Samuel grabbed a hold of her arm and peered up into Ryk's face.

"So this man with the funny nose is Mister Handelbar?"

And before Dylanna could even say anything, even respond to that, a laughter came from deep within her throat as her eyes sparkled with fresh tears.
"Yes, Samuel." But then she wen ton to correct him as she brushed away a tear. "This is Mr. Handelaar." She pressed her lips together in attempts to suppress a growing smile. Samuel was still uncertain of this.

"Mr. Handelaar?" he repeated.

"Yes," Dylanna said carefully, measuring up his 'father' as she released a hot sigh. "And he is also your father."

Samuel blinked, making a face, as he too, seemed to scrutinize the man before them.

"Father? But I didn't know I had a father." And he moved to stand up, observing 'Rufus' while Dylanna remained on the ground. Her legs were useless now anyway- and she was still whirling over all of the confessions Ryk had told her, she still had no idea what to even say.

"So if you're my father does that mean you'll buy me more toys at the market?" and the question was posed most seriously. He did, after all, enjoy having things bought for him and Mr. Handelaar seemed more eager to do it than his own mother.

"I'd love to buy you toys Sam, and maybe more carts full of flowers for your mother," Ryk winked at Dylanna, giving away another secret. "I really would like that Sam, but of course we'll have to check with your mother, and maybe I could buy her something else? Maybe she'd like if I bought her a ring?" He looked at Dylanna eagerly, she really meant the world to him. Sam was the greatest gift she could ever have given him. He'd love them both for all of his days.

While Samuel cheered at the idea, Dylanna was floored at what Ryk just revealed. Too much was happening too fast and she found herself shaking her head.
"Rufus," she made a face and shook her head, correcting herself, "Ryk... I... Please.." she said, taking her son now and pulling him into her arms as she hugged him close. "I know I owe you the world, I owe you my life, and whatever price comes with saving my son. And I... I would marry you, if... if that was a means to end this debt but I.... Ryk, I..."

Oh, how could she explain emotions that were even so foreign to her? Love.... he said he loved her. BUt this was Ryk Handelaar, and now she just found out he was also playing someone else! And where as Ryk flirted with so many women, had such a reputation- Rufus, on the ther hand, was a criminal.

"How.. how do I know who I'd marry, Ryk? Is this Rufus, proposing to me? Or is it Ryk? And what am I to say? You're a high end, well known criminal." And here she shook her head, trying to shake away the forming tears.  "Did my father know about this?" And her voice hitched at the end at such a realization. He rhand cupped over her lips. Oh, this was almost too much to bear!

Ryk was beginning to lose that glow of hope, that idea that all his secret dreams were coming true. She was afarid of him still, she did not trust in him, why should she. He was a letch, a rake, and a cad. He hid his distress poorly, showing it plain on his face. He loved her with all that he was, but she never knew, he never told her, and he had a reputation that he had nurtured into what he'd wanted it to be. Being known as a womanizer made it easier for people to overlook his greater traits, like a sharp mind and quick wits. The more he was disliked and envied for his sexual conquests, the less likely they were to notice him robbing them blind.

"Yes, he knew," Ryk dropped his gaze in shame. "Nammick was a very clever man. He's the only person to ever puzzle it out so easily. He still called me friend, always tried to get me to leave this life. Perhaps if he were alive I'd no longer be Rufus. Now only you and Einin Beirne know my secret, and though you know I'm Rufus, and the city knows of Rufus and the Soot Wolves, I doubt many know what that means. I am the king of the city in all but name. I guard it's streets, I protect its people. If you marry me, you marry Ryk, and you marry Rufus. One is nothing without the other." He lifted his eyes to hers, finding his confidence once again, "If you marry me, I will tell you all my secrets, you will know me, the real me, the man that was before I created Ryk and stole the mantle of Rufus. I love you, and only you. I have never spoken those words to any person in my life. I have never loved, not even my mother, not until you. You make me weak, and strong. I've always protected you, though in secret, because I love you. Don't make my words, my secrets, meaningless. You are my heart. Not because you owe me, but because you love me too. I know you do. You can't hide it from me. I see it in the way you move, in the way you guard yourself. You think I'll hurt you. I won't. I'm begging you. I never beg, I take what I want, without asking. But this I cannot steal or leverage from you. It must be freely given. Your heart in exchange for mine. Please Lanna." His pleading words were etched into the movements of his body, the expression on his face. His heart was in her hands, and there was no way he could control the outcome.

If she thought she was over whelmed before, she was certainly over whelmed now. But this was on a different sort of level, as a whole new series of emotions were attacking her as her cheeks flushed as she peered back at him and his love struck story. How long had he waited to say this to her? How long had it been bottled up? And how was she to accept or even deny this?

She felt dizzy, she felt weak- and it was at this time Samuel chimed in.

"Ewww, love is mushy stuff." And he made a face as if he just ate some nasty medicine before turning to his mother. "You should marry him for his toys." Because little boys cared not for flowers.

And she dind't know it then but her eyes welled up with tears that blinded her as she trembled before him.
Marry him? Marry Ryk Handelaar? Marry Rufus- King of crime?

"Oh, Ryk, I..."
Did he really not know what she might be giving up for this? What she had to confess to if she did this? But int he purity of his expression, she saw it would not matter, and as her lips trembled she lowered her gaze, closed her eyes and whispered,
"Yes." And their was a pause so brief inbetween before she added, looking up at him through teary eyes. "I will marry you, Ryk..."

Because in heaven's name,s he knew she had been too stubborn to try it all before. She'd at least do it for her father, for her son- who she truly wished could know and grow up with a real father-
and for herself.

So she could stop hiding, stop pretending....

And maybe... as he so wholesomely put it...
Perhaps...
there was some way...
in the truth in the moment on that boat.. out at sea...
When she had given herself to him so freely without consequence...


That perhaps, a little part of her wasn't at all that entirely drunk. And now, for once in her life, perhaps she could react on the one emotion she feared but hid away for so long-
Just as her 'soon to be fiance' had done just a moment ago.

Maybe she could try love. Maybe she could try being married. But oh, the strength it would take for her to place her faith into a man, especially the single man in all the world she feared most of all.

Ryk lunged forward and swept Dylanna up into his arms kissing her again. He was so happy he could die. When he finally released her, he bent down and picked up Sam, tossing him gently into the air and catching him. Ruffling his hair and setting him back down. Lightning was going crazy, yipping in excitement, though love and marriage meant nothing to a wolf. Rufus noticed Swab, hobbling back toward them in the distance. Ryk pulled his eye patch back in place. He smiled at Dylanna and whispered, "I love you," before slipping back into his Rufus persona. He dropped to one knee and looked at Sam.

"Hey buddy, can you do me a really really BIG, favor Sam," he ruffled his son's hair again, "when these scary looking men around, don't talk at all okay bud. No matter what, you stay extra quiet, like a sneaky cat. You do that for me, and I'll bring you to my house to see the dragons I bought at the faire."

Dylanna was sure her heart had never fluttered so much in all of her life-
Nor, did she ever think she had seen a man so happy, especially that man being Ryk. Normally, he wore such a coy mask as he waltzed about, but to see him like this, really, truly happy- it was something else.

Touching a hand to her chest, when Ryk began to talk to Samuel, she was finally beginning to sober up from the moment as well. Oh...
That's right.
Now that she and Samuel knew of his secret...
What were they to do about his men?

Drawing Samuel in close, she brushed a hand through his hair and told Ryk, "And I shall make sure that he does. Keep quiet. That is."
And she kept finding herself smiling, blushing; even as she tried to fight it. But it was there. And Ryk Handelaar was the reason.

As Swab grew nearer, Rufus whistled to Chuck, and the large man approached from the spot he had taken up to keep watch. When Chuck got to the group, he melted into a boyish grin and began playing with the rambunctious wolf pup Lightning. Swab came with news.

"Boats, several boats," the old salt told Rufus. "There's a hidden cove on the other side of the island and the witch and her cats had boats there. Seems we didn't kill them all. They're sailing one away with that bitch on board." The news pleased Rufus. He nodded and gave Dylanna a meaningful glance before heading off in the direction Swab indicated.

Lightning was so excited for all.of.this attention, and for the crazy.fighting and strange storms to be over that he was running around like a crazy person... Well, animal. Dylanna watched as Samuel giggled as she hugged him.close, peering over at Ryk and wishing she could help.him. But she knew her place was here with Samuel, so she gave her son a kiss and hugged him.again, and reminded him in a whisper, "Remember, my love, stay quiet and strong."

((OOC: This thread is complete. Any that are interested in the continued story will find a link here forthcoming, when a new thread is begun. If you're interested in what happens specifically with Ryk/Rufus after this, but before he returns to Arca, you'll need to join Gully on his adventure to bring a warning to his boss. That can be read here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15033.0).))

OOC: Valeska's adventures can be found here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16892.msg193479#msg193479).
And Dylanna's next thread is here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16893.msg193493#msg193493).