[A Cold Winter] Dinner With Hades

Ceremon let his grip on her wrist slid a dark smile “Go tend to our prisoners, let’s see if they bite first” he thought for a moment “Perhaps a less violent approach will help loosen their defiance”

He watched just long enough for her to disappear from the library before returning to his work within the books.

Hades pulled himself to his feet, every part of him ached, if there was one thing he had forgotten it was the feeling of being tortured, Hareavor was good at that part, a second experiment after he himself was deemed a failure, at least by Ceremon, if the truth were told Hades had simply seen that been on Kanes side was a far easier life than been hunted by him. He groaned as the days of tortured cracked from each bone, he had a couple of broken ribs, an a few strains here and there but whatever Z’ress had done had either tricked him into thinking he would be OK, or she had actually healed him which was all the more confusing to Hades, he wasn’t exactly the thinking kind.

From the hallway, Hades heard the echo of those cruel heels clicking upon the stone floor, steady and erotic. The mere sound was not music but torture to his ears due to the knowledge of the nearing presence of Z’ress that is when he heard the door scream in agony to the weight on the joints and the moisture that was causing premature rust.

At first two guards entered; the werewolf and the human, one carrying a sack while the other held a metal bucket that was closed and then those crimson eyes appeared from the darkness beyond fixed on him. She motioned for the guards to place down the items and take their leave, it was quick in the gesture and a snap of her fingers. The cell door closed behind her with a clank, while lifting the torch to hook upon the metal hanger fixed to the wall.

"How are you feeling, Hades?" She asked, her voice still indifferent, in her hands balanced perfectly was a tray of food. The smell is what hit him the hardest, freshly grilled meat and vegetables, everything his body craved. A silver pitcher and cup was set at the side. "Come let me inspect your ribs...bones are harder to heal then external injuries."

“Not the first time that asshole has broken bones, probably not going to be the last either” Hades levelled his tone as he set back against the wall, his stomach growling angrily at the scent of food. Something he had been deprived off since his capture, he stepped forward just a step before letting his glance move to the torch and bucket.

“So I play nice or you sic the rats on me?” He smiled a knowing smile, he may not have been a threaded with vampire as his other brothers, but he had enough to recognise certain scents. “Impressive, but what I don’t get is what use I am? I can’t bring down the fields around Elcarus Mansion, see dad neglected to give me that particular skill, only those born in the grounds can affect the convergence there” He made his way to sit in front of her his eyes set on the plate of food “But then you already know this, so either you get off on torturing men, dad isn’t giving you too much pleasure or you are just plain bored, or” his tone darkened “You think I have any level of influence over Aerian, and can convince her to side with you, you will do as you please to me regardless of what I give you”

Z'ress listened to Hades, while calmly slicing into the dark piece of meat. Such was slick and smelled of butter and mouth-watering spices, though, her crimson eyes slowly lifted to meet his gaze. The shadows at the corner of those luscious lips appeared to be riddled with mild amusement. "Forget, Aerian for the time, Hareavor will not lay a single finger on her, less he desires to keep his manhood intact. Is she here? Have I mentioned her? I am speaking with you. You are my focus, Hades." Z'ress calmly, lifted a forkful with the meat and vegetables, those supple breasts partially exposed within the dress, a teasing darkness of the upper of the areola exposed. "Now. Eat, the iron in the liver will assist to increase the amount of blood loss that you have sustained. I do not desire to ruin a good meal with plots, let us, simply enjoy it."

Hades eyed the food with suspicion, then Z’ress with that same look, before finally taking a bite. “So what you’re just here out of the goodness of your heart?” He swallowed slowly the pain still there as he watched her “Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of murder and mayhem as much as anyone else, value my life, but” he let the world hold “I protect my family, even at the cost of my life, Kane saved me from the torment of the hell Ceremon left me in, a debt that still needs to be paid, so if this is because you’re a saint painted bad then I’m thankful”

He sat back taking another piece of liver “Also might be worth noting my vampire is a whole lot less than Kane, I have no reliance on blood to stay alive nor heal, may take me longer but Ceremon gave me pieces of their strength and was able to strip the weaknesses. Which is why Hareavor likes to beat me up so badly, he does tie me up first though because he knows I’d kick his pathetic ass in a straight fight”

As he ate the liver, such was cooked and delicious, as well as the vegetables. She gathered another forkful, while, offering it to him. Her crimson eyes fixed on Hades, harbouring indifference to his words and reflecting nothing but ice. "Perhaps, not. But, for anyone, vampire or other, liver assists in the loss of blood by supplementing the iron." When he accepted that bite, Z'ress, placed the fork down to her side while gathering the pitch to pour some juice into the cup. 

By the smell of the sweet citrus and orange in colour it was orange juice, without a moment of hesitation, she then lifted the cup and took a sip and then from the pitcher to illustrate there was no danger of poison. From the corner of those plush lips, he caught a trickle of the orange juice that slithered down her chin to plop invitingly between those exquisite womanly breasts. Calmly she lifted a digit to wipe the escapee juice down to her chin with a lick on the digit.

"Hm. I value family, entirely. She is running selfishly from her responsibilities within Faerun, she is wanted for many things. Mostly murder and theft. She seeks shelter with those that she finds strong. I will commend that she has sunk her teeth into Kane. I do not think you or even he realizes the trouble that she has caused. But, you see, Aishani is being difficult and bringing you...Aerian and this entire realm into direct line of danger. It is unneeded and pathetic. All I want is my daughter."

Hades stretched awkwardly then recoiled as the pain in his ribs snapped him back “The funny about our realm Z’ress, we’re pretty much always in danger, except right now we are in far deeper trouble than you think” He coughed and then growled at the wave of pain he was rewarded with.

“Those funny portals that you happened to take a trip through to end up here?” His eyes met hers “They are usually linked to one occurrence, and the sky has been awful dark of late which means we are headed to war where your daughter will be least of your worries” he breathed slowly trying to take a grasp of the pain “I’m thankful for the food, really, but giving you Aishani means betraying my brother”

He stopped short of his words for a moment before he sat back into the wall “I won’t do it, without him as he is now we don’t stand a chance of the war to come, Aishani gives him that strength” He shrugged softly watching her for a moment his eyes tracing her body for a moment “We’re all going to die if you keep up this pursuit, but then Ceremon wouldn’t want to reveal that, he wants what’s in the mansion, power he thinks will save the realm and make him a hero, it won’t”

"Yes. Danger is a part of life, otherwise, things would be...boring for those of us that enjoy mayhem and murder, amongst some things." She calmly began to rearrange the tray, though, emptying it to place the remaining on the cold floor, minus the pitcher and fork. Gracefully, she stood and turned to near the cell door. Her snow white hair sultry accenting her hips and the play on the flesh of her bottom by the sway of her body, the cruel click of her heels still heavy in the walk. 

Z'ress knocked on the door, it opened and she extended the tray forward to the guard on the opposite side, though, turn back to return within the cell. "You want to ensure, that Ceremon does not get a hold of Kane and meet with his end game. Then it would be wise to...work with me, instead of against me." She moved now to the bag that held the first aid items, removing the bandage.

Now, she settled before him with the first aid item in her lap, working her fingers upon his sides while investigating the damage done, fingertips as brushed silk and skilled but freezing to the touch. She gathered the bind, holding it in one place while wrapping it tightly to pin his ribs in place, the brush of her hair was as though a frigid breeze but incredibly soft.

She fixed the bandage and settled back, eerie crimson eyes staring deeply into his. A smirk upon the corner of her lip with the flash of her tongue gracing the surface. Z'ress offered him the grace of her fingers, though, rise and stood back. 

Tilting her head while watching him, expression revealing nothing of the ideal thoughts within her mind. Her hand lifted while suddenly a webbed light was thrown upon him, violet and throbbing, then sinking into him with the urge of healing. She advanced lifting her leg to pin his shoulder back with the violent implication would he move, this was so quick, reminding him of a viper. The balance she held was perfect, but, from the lift he could see those magnificent petals by the part of the fabric. Such a delectable ashen hue that was kissed by the most delicate pink, the perfected term of such petals. "Think it over. Because, you have been so compliant thus far, I will leave the rats within as company. For now." Z'ress lessened the strength of her pin, then pushed him back, while pirouetting on her heel with hips pulling. She was a vixen, full of prowess and grace, but, lethal and unpredictable. The groan of the door was heard opening and the sound of her heels faded in her leave of the dungeon.

Hades would have thrown something in her direction if he had been able to but the sight of her over him had affected him, the healing power seemed to drain him as he sank back into the wall, the pain at least had dulled quite a bit as his fight against sleep was finally lost.

[A Cold Winter] Meanwhile in Dragons Keep

Hareavor wiped the blood from his hands another day and still no answers as he made his way back to the library where his father was as usual busy pouring over notes and books. Hareavor propped himself on the edge of the table.

Ceremon simply looked up his eyes cold and distant as he eyed Hareavor “Did she give anything up?” His voice was level and yet somehow dark, his eyes carried no emotion framed by the silver hair.

“No stupid bitch is still adamant her asshole father will come for her” Hareavor shrugged, his features we’re almost identical to Kanes except his eyes a far darker green and scars across portions of his face left deep slices through the flesh. He unlike Kane had also aged much further.

“That is my granddaughter, do not speak of her in such a manner lest you wish to lose your tongue my boy” Ceremon snapped back darkly “Now where is our guest? And which of the two has she met so far?”

“You are not one to tolerate such disrespect and yet from her you do?” Hareavor bit back and no sooner had the words left his mouth than Ceremon was upon him pinning him to the desk a blade pressed to the back of his head 

“You will show her the respect I expect, you will treat her if she is me do I make myself clear boy?” Ceremon growled each word almost as darkly as the last, Hareavor finally was able to free himself only to stand and nod in reply then storm off out of the room. 

No more than a few moments later, was the cruel click of heels heard upon the passage outside the library, announcing the nearing presence of Z'ress. 

Clearly, by the way she moved, Z'ress was drenched in power and female sexuality, such oozed from her the instant she breeched the door into the library. Her hair framed her smooth ashen features, imitating the fallen snow that blanketed the realm in a deep freeze. Those crimson eyes were stunning, while capable of captivating a room with the arachnid venom from one glance, her lips were stained a beautiful and deep crimson. Rarely, if ever, had Ceremon seen the woman smile in tone or expression. In physical aspect, she held the daunting and delicious curves given to her daughter, Aishani, though, her bosom was more womanly and full, especially in the plumpness captivated behind the corset that drew focus to her small waist and beautiful birthing hips, a skirt with slits up to the hips with the exposure of her luscious legs. She had a whip fixed to her hip that was cruel with strips of metal that held a wicked hooks on the end, all her attire held a reminiscent touch of a spider insignia.

Z'ress stopped no more than a few feet from the door, those piercing crimson eyes fixed upon him, expression enigmatic and calculating at the same time. "Hareavor, has shown them torture...I could be, mistaken, but we need information. They know now, what happens when crossing us. It is time to break them." Her words slithered past her lips in a sensual purr, meddled with a hiss. She tipped her chin a moment, running the pink tongue slowly across her polished lips.

Ceremon snapped a look in her direction his eyes cold and dark the green of his eyes barely even detectable now as his eyes met hers “She is my granddaughter, and while he is good at what he does there are limits to what I will allow” His voice was dark “While I admire your want to make men bow, here we do not, or rather I do not” His eyes glittered just for a moment in that last statement

“Try Hades, perhaps he will be more forthcoming in selling out your daughter for her execution” Ceremon look to Hareavor for a moment before he stood “Perhaps you and I should go speak with him, I wonder how he would react to a women he can’t intimidate”

Her crimson eyes remained fixed on Ceremon's with indifference, expression calm, almost as though it was chiselled from the very ice of a raging river hidden beneath. When she spoke her words were a hiss, full of that potent venom. "That is your weakness, Ceremon.  That little rat, squeals and cries for her father. She has such seeded love for him and faith...Twist it, use that against her to believe that he has abandoned her, make her favour you. But..." She added as an afterthought, turning, the shift of the fabric exposed those glorious stems and bare bottom beneath, her back him. "...I am sure, that a little...persuasion to Hades, may prove beneficial." Z'ress held her hand upwards with her palm down, a silent command for Ceremon to gather such and the two to go into the dungeons.  

Ceremon eyed her for a moment curious and frustrated all in the same “You do not know the sheer defiance of my granddaughter, she would never turn on her father even for the right price” Ceremon strode off down the hall and then down the stairway and into the cold hall that led to the cells.

“Hades however, well he may be a failed experiment but as you say he may be swayed, with the correct incentive” His eyes travelled over her body slowly, before he pulled himself to height and made his way to the cell that contained his son. As the door open Hades snapped back into the corner, his flesh discoloured from the assaults he had suffered from, a cough sent a spray of blood across the floor.

“Finally got bored of your dog been unable to get the job done?” Hades growled though the words carried little threat, Ceremon simply stood and looked 

The sound of her heels clicked mercilessly upon the floor in his wake, the stride itself speaking of unbridled strength and a demand to be respected. When the door was open and Hades moved to the back corner, her expression remained calm and eerily neutral, stepping further into the cell while holding a hand forward for Ceremon to remain in his position. Z'ress moved to stand before Hades, those hips powerful in the sway and it was more than clear that she was used to displaying her sensuality. "Do you find pain arousing, Hades? You are torment yourself for a female that is not of this realm and could very easily turn on you, your brother and your family, if she sees fit. You see, she is weak and will syphon the strength from those around her. Do you think, she will remain when the threat is removed?"

Hades raised his eyes to her just for a moment before another round of coughing sent blood spraying across the floor, as the pain subsided he raised his eyes

“I would apologise but not really my style, as for your daughter she isn’t my problem, my brother made a choice so anything that arises from that is on his head, though she didn’t look too much of a threat the last time I saw her. I’m also pretty sure she wouldn’t hesitate to lay her life down for him or Aerian, unlike say your pet asshole behind you, he would bury you if it served his purpose” Hades drew a rattled breath “Now if you don’t mind I need to rest, I doubt my niece will have given me up for dead just yet”

He sank back against the wall the pain finally taking him from consciousness, his breathing hard and broken

Z'ress tilted her head a slight, watching Hades as he spoke and then grew unconscious. The rise and fall of her shoulders, dictated her breathing, remaining calm and even. She neared the blood on the floor, while kneeling down and bending forward upon all fours, her tongue drug against the crimson stain on the cold surface. But, then soon after, straightened with a look to the unconscious Hades. "He is disgusting. I will heal him, what fun is it to have a broken toy to play with?" She fell silent for a moment, while closing her eyes, while her ruby polished lips began to flutter in an incantation, but, a hand pointed to Hades as a dark violet light erupted from her fingers to wrap around Hades like a webbing, throbbing before dissipating. "He needs to be bound again. That effect will heal him overtime, so I can work into his will...Hareover will not touch him. I will feed him and clean him.  Alert me when he is awake and the food is ready, he will either learn how patient I can be or exactly how I do so love to play rough..."

She turned on her heel, but, stopped when at Ceremon's side, glancing to him. "Have Hareover gather me a metal bucket and seven rats...Hades will eventually, learn, NEVER to cross me." Those cruel heels abused the floor beneath her, while her hips swayed to guide each delicious leg forward to her walk.

Ceremon could only smile at such a dark request “You know my son will not take kindly to be treated like a common servant, nor will he take kindly to him not been the one to handle the torture, the boy does love such a thing” With that he shrugged and made his way down the hall, eying the door to Aerians cell for a moment.

“Perhaps he will bend, but as for break? That will be interesting to see” Ceremon unlocked the door and stepped in the scream echoed down the hall as the terror simply tore from Aerian before she shrank into the corner, her eyes bright emerald green but her body showed similar signs to Hades

“You don’t deserve us” Aerian snarled coldly “Don’t preach family when you serve your own interests, I pray my father finds the strength to finally end you”

Ceremon merely shrugged “He has been unable to do so for so long, he is weak my child, he will always remain so, and I assure you he is not coming for you, I suspect he doesn’t even know you are missing, but  do want you to meet a dear friend of mine”

Z'ress appeared indifferent to his comment on behest of Hareavor, stopping in the grizzly corridor for him to leave the room. She then walked with him to Aerian's cell, remaining just outside and when Ceremon made the pretence of an introduction, the click of her heels was heard upon her entry.

"Poor creature..." She whispered softly, this was cold with viperous intent, those crimson eyes fixed on Aerian. "You know, all this pain can end. Everyone, serves their own interests in the end, Aerian, that does include your father. Consider this, just for a moment. He is in a nice warm bed, oblivious of the pain and torment that you are undergoing right at this very moment. Possibly even fucking my daughter until she can't see straight. Such a pitiful creature she is, so weak and pathetic, always finding those in strength to protect her...because, she can't herself. I should have ended her life the moment her first breath. But, now, we are at an impasse. You are much more impressive than her." Z'ress moved to stand before Ceremon. "Get me warm water and a cloth, Ceremon. I will tend to her wounds personally, she deserves more than this. Food as well, possibly starving. Mouldy bread and cheese will not do for your...granddaughter." She then neared Aerian, crouching with splayed fingers supporting her, caressing Aerian's cheek. "Do you want this all to end, my darling?"

Aerian looked up through the dirt on her face she remained as indifferent as she could manage “My father may be a lot of things, weak to some” She eyed Ceremon darkly “A hero to others, but he has never once abandoned me, the only regret I have now is it’s his softness that stopped me putting an arrow through both your heads” Her words snapped darkly “But really how can you end this? How do you ease the pain of been violated because your …. Because someone sees you as a plaything as a toy to tortured? Or because you lost someone so dear that every fucking breath hurts? Or because you can’t have someone you want? I doubt that even you can help you have to have a heart to even begin to figure it out”

Aerian swallowed awkwardly “He could have stopped it, he chose not, I wont trust anyone in this place” as she spoke she drew her knees awkwardly to her chest “He knows I will die before I do”

“Stubborn as ever Aerian, sadly Hare does as he will, even the gods cannot control him, had I left the means to do so I would have ended up with another Hades on my hands and that wont do” Ceremon snapped back coldly

“At least Uncle H has a heart” Aerian bit back darkly

“We will see about that!” Ceremon snarled as he strode from the room waiting in the hallway

Z'ress tilted her head to the side, hair as pure as freshly fallen snow, not acknowledging Ceremon in his outburst, nor the spat between relations. She then caressed upon Aerian's cheek a slight more, her skin was as cold as the frigid weather outside, just as cruel. Her crimson eyes fixed upon Aerian, slowly she shook her head. 

"Those, my darling, are trials in life. You are wrong, though, I have lost and suffered with every breath I take. I want someone but cannot have them, too many obstacles in my way. We all have various differences in our own, it is what doesn't kill us that makes us stronger. But, I can accommodate, would you accommodate me. Words, mean nothing to you in this state, so allow me to prove this to you. Behave and you will be treated well; misbehave...you will not be treated so well." 

Abruptly, Aerian felt the pressure of both, Z'ress's hands upon the side of the temple, then the venomous drip of her whisper beside her ear. "Do not discredit me. Ceremon has a soft spot for you, I do not. So, do not push me and I will tend to you." She pressed her lips against Aerian's ear in a kiss, but, then Aerian felt a tingling throughout her body, as though caressed in the sun during spring and a throbbing to state of her healing. "I will return to check on your healing process and feed you, something other than the disgusting slop, I am sure...IF they have. Consider my words, my darling." Z'ress then was facing her, leaning in to press her lips against Aerian's with the slip of her slick muscle, although, brief. Straightening, she rose and turned, leaving the cell without another word, nor glance to the red head.

Once the tormented hinges groaned to close the cell behind them, Z'ress glanced to Ceremon with a shift of her eyes and never her body. "Hareavor touches her. I will kill him. He will ruin my plans."

“He may consider that a challenge” His words came almost jovially as they walked back through the hall and up into the library, he turned to face her his eyes soft or as soft as a serial pyschos could appear “She will not turn, even with Hares abuse she has never turned on him, she is very good at what she does, be careful with her Z’ress” 

His words were level and yet carried that faithful truth that once in while he was capable of “They are unaware of her disappearance, but when Kane learns of it, he will come and he will come in force, we cannot hold of the Dentarian Army, those we have around us are kept by fear and and warmth of the castle but they will not die willingly for us save a few, your time is limited so work quickly” And with that he seated himself at the desk of books “I will keep hare away from Aerian I cannot promise the same for Hades”

Z'ress remained silent, as always her heels heard in her wake, speaking of her presence beside him. Her posture was proper with shoulders squared back and held with pride, dignity. The power in her essence was nearly smothering when they made way into the library, idly, she moved to look over a few books, a fingertip caressing over the binding in her sultry stroll.

"Do not...rush me, Ceremon." Those words dripped with venom laced malice. "I already gathered that the little rat is capable of weaselling out of any situation, unfortunately for her. Gained trust would not work on either, if Hareavor plays with EITHER of them. He has a palm and can rape any woman outside these walls. Surprised you don't have slaves. You know for a fact, that Kane is not en-route now? I know, if I was in the situation that Aishani placed herself in, I would not take an army. Too large and noisy. No...I don't trust it."

“It’s far too messy to have women around here, you have for yourself seen the damage my boy does to them, the last …. Well, it took days to clean the room after he was done, sadly he is far too good at what he does. I wonder how long before Kane or indeed Hades puts a blade through him” Ceremon shrugged softly “Still that’s cost for turning humans into us, leave their morals intact and I get Hades take them away and I’m left with Hareavor, maybe next time I’ll try for a balance”

“Providing I don’t kill them first” Hareavor spat as he walked back into the library “The little bitch is claiming she cannot be touched, which is not what we agreed” He eyed Ceremon his glare ice cold there was nothing in his eyes but anger and a deep cold pit “She will lead us right into the heart of Dentarius I just need a little more time”

“You will leave her be” Ceremon growled “And Hades for the moment, they need time to heal, we cannot have them dying before winters end”

“If they’re not dead by winters end we will be, you know he will bring the force …” Hareavors voice trailed off “You want him to come?” It was half realisation half a thought out loud “The winter would likely kill him during the trek here, you could take Dentarius with no resistance”

“Sadly not, even if he dies the fields stay in place, we cannot take the mansion without those down and that requires Elcarus blood” Hare was about to point out the obvious “Not yours, nor mine we were not born there our power is not rooted there”

“Neither was the little bitch” Hareavor snapped

“No but her father was, I can all but imagine it will work the same way, Z’ress will tend to their interrogation for now, you will double the guards outside, and replace the ones that die, we need to keep our eyes and ears open” Ceremon waved Hareavor off who simply stormed from the room muttering and cursing both Z’ress and his father.

“The boy has a temper pay him no mind, his insults are mere words to us” Ceremon spoke over his rant loud enough for Hareavor to catch as he left.

Z'ress turned when Hareavor entered the library, tipping her chin in a slight jut. The movement of her tongue rolling beneath her plush polished lips was heard in a soft click at the suction in the roof of her mouth. Her crimson eyes were focused on Hareavor when the ice slipped from his tone, the chill in his voice and the anger apparent. When Ceremon turned his focus to her, Z'ress was leaning over his chair with a hand on his open book and curled at the back of his chair. Those eerie eyes remained solid and fixed on him, as though, peering deeply into him.

"He means nothing to me." She hissed, dipping close to Ceremon's ear in a whisper. "Hareavor is not broken...a wild stallion to run loose and cause chaos. That was your mistake in his creation. Do NOT go soft, that is the weakness others will feast upon." The warm moisture of Z'ress's breath prickled upon his lobe and neck. "I will now go check on the food, then tend to each." She dipped down to glide the warmth of her slick tongue from the collar of his neck to his lobe, then straightened to leave the library.

Ceremon actually looked stunned for a moment by her act as he slid from the chair to catch her wrist, his hand wrapped around her wrist with enough force to block her attempt to leave “I have not gone soft in the five centuries I’ve been around, I generally do as I please and the results may not be pretty but they are effective” his voice was low and dark “Now you and I agreed we would work to a common goal to deal with your daughter, I did not expect my children to become part of the equation, however now they are they will be eliminated and will take my mansion back, make no mistake that is my end goal”

His hand drew her to him they cold grey of his eyes settled on hers “And you can return to your world and dominate the men like you are so used to, but here you are as I an equal in all things I will not be treated like a child Z’ress” He grazed his fangs against her neck slowly “I like you don’t make me regret that”

Z'ress tipped her chin a slight while not offering defiance in his catch and interruption from her procession to the entry of the library, spun to face him, ashen features calm and ruby lips glistening with life against the reflection of the lighting in the room. Succulent and captivating. She lifted a finger, wagging it at him while clicking her tongue in a tsk-tsk. "Then do not act like a child, my viper." She hissed, angling her head to the side while offering him open terrain on her satin flesh.  "All I have heard when it comes to conversations between your family, is disagreement and yapping. Take those reigns as the patriarch...rule over them, this is beyond love, such a word doesn't exist in my vocabulary. Then accept me for the challenge I am, Ceremon, my viper, bite back."

[A Cold Winter] Unwanted Surprises

The descent into the basement was fairly quick the same route to the hidden was almost the root to the damaged heating elements, the staff and metalworkers had already removed the cracked pipes huge tubes of metal bent apart by the cold ice that had flooded them just a day earlier.

“We’ll be needing those fancy magicks of yours soon milord” Abrams called as he caught sight of them, and the bottom of the room the green fires burned high, this was referred to as dragon flame a never ending fire that burned to keep the waters of the mansion heated.

“Of course Abrams” Kane quietly removed his gloves the flicker of flames danced over his hand as the pipes were hoisted into place they were heavy as staff shuddered to hold them in place.

Aishani lowered down to the basement of the estate, acknowledging the familiar pathing that appeared to nearly lead to the hidden laboratory. Her eyes took in the individuals within the area from staff to metalworkers. She glanced to Abrams with a wave at his presence, Aishani pulled the covers of the mits back to reveal the fingerless gloves and moved down to assist the staff to set the pipes into place after Kane's assistance. She was abnormally strong for her height and size but not terribly so, offering her help without question.

Kane eyed her for a moment with a grin, before he moved to the point where the new lines joined the old one, quietly his hand ran over the pipe a crackle emitted for a few moments before his hand came away the pipe glowing a dark red but sealed to the old pipe work, crossing to the other side he repeated this process and the pipe held in place.

“Always amazes me you can bend fires like that milord” Abrams chorused softly

“Easy enough when you’ve had a century or two to practice with, we can open the water lines now?”

“Aye milord, should warm you all up in no time” Abrams smiled

“Thank you for your prompt response to our issues”

“Well if you lot freeze to death who’s going to look after the rest of us this winter?” Abrams shrugged before extending his hand, Kane promptly made the shake before walking back to Aishani.

“The supply wagons have arrived that would be our next stop”

She straightened when Kane neared her, a smirk on her plush lips while stepping back to watch his word. Tilting her head to the side at the fusion of the metal of the pipes, glancing to Abrams with a chuckle. But, she moved to ensure that all the other staff and metal workers were good, then a nod to Kane. "Well, then what are we waiting for?"

Kane nodded softly taking her hand as they all left back out through underground and out into the court yard which was now full of wagon and horses and soldier in the blue and greys of the Elveran Army, it was at this point Kanes walk slowed, the far side of the courtyard housed a large blue and silver carriage, the side bore the Silver Horse of the royal court.

“Oh great” Kane groaned quietly “Well this is going to be fun” the sarcasm in his voice was as obvious as the caravan as the door opened the frame of a young woman, dark red curls framed the face of a woman who was accustomed to getting her own way, instinctively Kane drew Aishani to him.

Aishani considered the soldiers, then her eyes narrowed on the blue and grey of the Elveran Army. Her eyes barely had a chance to catch the appearance of a female with dark red tendrils and glanced distractedly to Kane when he drew her close; it was almost protective but possessive, a search for strength from her. The crispness of the cold air swirled and nipped at their cheeks and noses, but her exotic aroma permeated Kane's senses. Silently stating that she was present and not going any place.

Kanes eyes never moved from the woman as she strode across the courtyard staff skittering from her path. She stepped in front of Kane before eying Aishani carefully studying her, another moment before her voice came snapping Kane from his annoyed state.

“You do know the correct greeting for the Queen is to kneel before her?” Her words were emotionless and cold, her eyes now staring into Kanes, the awkward moment held them for a moment.

“Unless you’re on grounds where the power of the crown is no longer acknowledged” Kane replied his voice now veined with the same ice that had taken hold of the realm

“You may be an independent state, but you still answer to the crown Kane, we know that” She replied

“We will support the crown when needed, we don’t answer to you or the High Council” His words actually took her by surprise as she snapped a glare to Aishani, her curls flowing in the motion “He is always so unreasonable?” again her voice dripped with sarcasm.

Aishani straightened when the female eyed her, though, left her gloved hand curled within Kane's, but, never once did she stand down from the woman's gaze. Allowing for Kane to handle the situation for the most part until the directly acknowledged by her. "Perhaps, you should consider the cause for him to be reasonable to you. A Queen would not demand that anyone bow in neutral grounds, such should be done without push or snap. The title is a privileged not to be overlooked, respect is earned and NEVER given."

“A title I was forced into at just twelve years old, used for one end or another, beaten as I grew into my own mind, and now because some believe I use things to my own mind there is a High Council who seek to take power for themselves while I sit and watch my lands fall apart. They would have him executed without question nor trial, did he tell you that part? That he abused his power” Kane growled snapping her attention to him, his voice was sharp yet not without concern, not for Ascondia but any implication she may bend the story to fit her agenda.

“I used no one Ascondia, but you are correct without the protection of a free city that you afforded me I would be hunted like any other bounty. I would be likely caught and I would indeed be executed, seeing how you will always harbour a soft spot in that ice cage you call a heart I was given Dentarius, which brings us to why you are here?” 

“Oh stop worrying so much Kane, I’m not here for your woman, though I would appreciate the return of my property, and my bounty hunter or him to repay the two hundred thousand in gold I paid him upfront” Ascondia shrugged softly “I wanted to discuss a new threat, apparently your loving father has found himself a new power mate, and I want to ensure he isn’t coming after the throne again”

Kane almost threw his hands up in disbelief yet the act was a mental one Aishani would see in her mind as Kane shifted back to the straight faced side he showed her these days “I think it’s more likely he is coming for us, so you can rest easy Ascondia, as usual I have things under control, I won’t be needing the crowns help to deal with family matters”

“Hmm very well, I will stay the night and we will return to Elvera tomorrow, perhaps I can catch a word with our daughter before I leave” Ascondia shrugged his answer off before stepping toward the mansion “I trust this will be fine?”

Kane scratched his head idly in thought before he replied “Funny thing about that, Aerian rode out with Hades this morning, headed to check the outer provinces, though I now wonder if perhaps she didn’t go because she knew you were close, all these years and you still haven’t found a way to talk to her”

“She is stubborn, and resents me, that is not my doing” Ascondia snapped back coldly

Aishani looked to her with only a brow inclined and her expression remaining passive without much reveal of emotion. "Clearly, any benefit to your own personal vendetta need remain at the glass carriage you ride to remain there. I am well aware of all things considering. Everyone has their own motives, it is to discern if such is detrimental to others...Thank for the property by the way, seems you must have cherished it once upon a time, but, isn't that how all tales begin? In your case, manipulation and betrayal are in your blood. Seems, you must have to bite the blade and swallow the money you paid in full, because, he clearly took the money and ran."

A smirk formed on her lips, while it was subtle with the shadows darkening on the corners of her mouth. "He has a point, Ascondia." But she stepped forward at the mention of Aerian. "Regardless, if you think it is your fault or not for the resentment Aerian has, there is much she deals with and all you think of is yourself. Might have a wonderful conversation with your reflection, because, the mouth moves but only you are heard talking."

“Such a spirited woman, he does like them fiery does he not?” Ascondia grinned throwing Kane a glance before striding off toward the mansion. Several guards fell in line behind her as did a row of maids and other Court personnel.

Kane waited for a few moments “I do so wish that woman would just leave me be” He sighed softly before walking toward the wagons that were heavily loaded “Still at least she brought the supplies with her, there is a small mercy in the fact no one would be stupid enough to attempt to rip a caravan of supplies off while they are with the Royal Guards”

“Indeed Kane, we would gut them before they got close enough” Called a tall man now striding toward him “The Royal Guard as good as we have ever been, at least since you were in command” The man was tall and looked young yet his hair was aged with silver, he held a hand to Kane who promptly responded with a firm shake.

“Alvin, they have you in command now?” His voice was etched with curiosity

“Indeed, the Queen has put several more trusted of us in more key positions, between you and I, I fear the High Council may be after the power of the throne, I fear they may attempt to assassinate her” The man lowered his voice so none so close could hear his words “Our lady dispatched Alastair Grimloshi to bring back your girl, one of our scouting party later found him with arrows in his back at the bottom of Dragons Gorge”

Kane eyed the gates for a moment in thought before considering his answer “For two hundred thousand pieces of gold, there are many who would be out to take the contract from him” His voice had become level as spoke in thought

“But not so many stupid enough to try and take them from him, also he still had the fee with him, he was executed my lord, and most likely by the high council to an end we cannot determine” Kane handed off a bag of grain to the men now creating a line between the wagons and the storage areas of the mansion each would pass it to the next.

“And he would undoubtedly had realised that should he have come here, I would have put an arrow in his head myself, he may have been the pet hunter of the crown but I have a hard time forgiving treason” Kane handed another bag down to Aishani before pulling another to him, this pattern he repeated for a few more bags “So why come to me?”

“Because I have yet to find a man who can question your honour my lord” Replied Alvin “And without you I’d just be another corpse on the battle field, you pulled us out that day at the cost of your own family, I have never forgotten”

“Me either” Kane bit darkly “But what do you expect me to do?”

“Watch her back, just as you always have Kane” Alvin replied his words almost now a plead

“No” Kane replied simply handing off yet another sack of grain

Aishani remained still for a few moments, a tick tick of her nail tapped upon the hilt of her sheathed dagger to her side, while the narrow of her eyes were so venomous that it would nearly poison an onlooker by the simple glance of it. When Kane spoke it was as though her spell shattered and Aishani looked to him with a smug nod. "That is the only decent thing, which she has brought with her benefiting anyone but herself."

She turned her golden eye to rest upon the man that spoke, listening to the conversation, now the informal introduction of Alvin. She accepted each bag of grain that was handed down to her, amidst the discussion, turning it to the next in the daisy chain line. Aishani kept her thoughts to herself, on one passing of the grain, her hand caressed against his own with a brief wash of her gaze and a cascade of her scent swirled around him in the frigid air.

Now, her silence spoken, while a chuckle rolled from her lips in that fantastic purr. "She is the Queen, always a struggle to keep and maintain such a position is part of the life of those of higher privilege. I do not pretend to understand the circumstances, nor do I care. There is far more at play then I believe you realize, Alvin, each thread to web and with just the wrong footing a trap can emerge to send the spider for a feast. But spiders do not eat slowly, no. They send in an enzyme that slowly rots the inside, spoiling it. Then..." She made a slurping sound. "Be wary that which side you are on. The life can be sucked from you. Duty is duty, I understand such things. But, do not hesitate for a moment to consider that on the drop of a coin, all that can change and challenge the very air you breathe." She then returned to the passing of the grain. "In other words, the QUEEN can look after herself, as we have to on our own family matters."

“I would not betray my duty milady, I am the third to this position after Kane, the other two well met ends not so pretty” Alvin sighed softly “So far I have been fortunate to walk the line between the intent of the High Council and ensuring our Queen stays safe”

“Alvin, you are safe here, the council are not stupid enough to risk bringing the force of Dentarius against them, be it to Ascondias end or another, but rest assured that is where my obligation to protect Ascondia begins and ends, you are free to conduct any inquires you wish here. Find your spies and I will ensure they never see the light of Elvera again” Kanes final words came sharp and with enough for anyone in earshot to hear a warning that any attempt on any from the Elveran party on his lands would not be permitted, as he slid down from the wagon having offloaded the last of the grains.

“I will have the East Wings assigned as normal to the royal party, now if you’ll excuse me Aishani and I have much to do in preparation for Dentarius surviving this winter” Kane bowed lightly as he swept off down the courtyard he halted just for a moment “Alvin my words count for anyone just so you are aware” and with that he headed off toward the stables with Aishani.

Aishani smirked to the sharp velocity of Kane's impending words, stepping back to wait for him to jump from the wagon. Once he was down upon the grounds, her mitted hand met with his in the walk to the stables. "Kane, I don't like this...Something is rubbing me wrong about this entire scenario. Almost like it is a distraction from other things at hand, we need to remain focused. I am not aware of how Ascondia fits into this, but, rest assured, Z'ress can weave such a web that it is lethal to any that step foot in her trap. We need to weigh things, because, I would not put it past my mother to test your loyalties; meaning pitting me against Ascondia to make you decide, even Aerian. It is discerning to me and quite troubling. Yet, again, I may be getting too far ahead of myself on this." Her tone was a rolling purr in her whisper, to keep such from eavesdropping ears.

“It would seem a storm is brewing to distract us, though I suspect this is no more than a test of my patience, there is truth to the High Council trying to dethrone Ascondia, without her they would be free to seize control of the realm” He paused “I have desire to be drawn into a political war on war front and all-out war with Ceremon on the other, but I am almost certain this is no more than Ascondias attempt to mess with my head, after all I suspect I will always remain her favourite play toy” Kane caressed her hand gently.

“Z’ress and Ceremon will have to sit and wait for winter to pass before they can take another shot at us, so for the moment we will indeed focus on what’s in front of us and survive this winter” As they walked it began to snow, small yet enough to frost the ground quickly, by the time they reached the stables it had already stopped “I would of course warn you to watch your back around Ascondia, right now you are in her way and you’ve already eluded her once”

As the entered the stables he halted turning to her “On the subject of Grimloshi and that been the second time I’ve heard is name do I suspect my daughter is responsible for his death?” Kane stepped to the side to grab a bale of hay “Not that it matters after all Alastair was no more going to meet such an end, after all had he shown up here trying to take you it would have been my arrow ending him”

"Mmhm, yes, it would not surprise me. She really thinks that she has you wrapped around her little finger. I understand her position but she has to understand that you are not at her beck and call especially here. I still know the location of her necklace, in which, she will not get it back until the charm is broken and removed. I would not wish to see you in any state of mind control." Aishani glanced to the ground as it was dusted with the snow, but, when near the stables, she turned Kane gently. "Honestly, Kane, I would not be surprised if Aerian had a part in Grimloshi."

“Ascondia may think she is in control, I assure that will never be the case again” Kane replied softly handing her a shovel, as he placed the bale of hay down and sat upon it “As you said we have bigger things to have our minds on than a game of who can mess up Kanes head the worst” he shrugged the comment about Ascondia or his father was all too evident, finally he stood “So do you wish to clean or feed them?”

Aishani watched him for a few moments in silence, accepting the shovel but neared him to caress his cheek and lifting his chin upwards to look upon her. But, as he stood, she stepped back and looked at the stable, then to him. "Things are often faster when working together on one project. I say that we feed the horses and then bathe them. I'm sure we will make short work of it, Kane." 

As they worked clearing the stables Kane was working the floors clearing the muck into a barrow which was then promptly taken outdoors, a sudden panic cut through him before he was able to push it down, evidently aware as his nails bit into the wood of the stall. As it subsided Kane continued to help with the cleaning of the stables. 

“This is the last of things for today” Kane spoke softly as their tasks were done, standing the remnants of the bale in the trays by the door. They walked out into the yard Kanes fingers laced through hers as they headed back toward the mansion he halted, his eyes searching the high walls of the outer perimeter before he shook his head and they once more resumed their path to the house. 

Aishani moved quickly when Kane's hand latched to the wood of the stall, instantly at his side for support, while a hand was upon his chest and another on his back. She inspected him with her golden eye, while moistening her lips. But, as the tension melted from his muscles, she retracted, leaving it be for the time as he never spoke on the cause for his actions.

She nodded to him, having shed her coat and moving to slip it back on over her shoulders, but, her eyes remained on him in the leave of the stable. Aishani followed his gaze to the high perimeter walls and then back to him, keeping in step with him to the estate.

When entering, they heard a commotion in the kitchen followed by screams and pots and pans falling down, almost as though the clatter of smashing plates were heard behind the closed doors. She exchanged a glance with Kane, then withdrew her new daggers with a spin in her hand the cover of the mit already tugged down to expose her fingers.

As the door to the kitchen was burst open, one of the kitchen staff was throwing anything within arm's reach at the large spider covered in thick black fur with dark brown strips up and down the legs. Those chitinous plated ridges of the sharp legs were lifted as though to fend off the assault. "Shadow! There you are." She said, while sheathing her weapons and a smile formed on her lips, as though, welcoming a long lost friend back. The palp extensions appeared to chatter, while the soft clicking of the legs were heard in the movements over to greet Aishani. But, as the palps continued to chitter, a seeming dark cloud covered her and it was apparent.

"Kane...to our room. I have need to speak to you in privacy, Shadow is going to join us..." Without awaiting a reaction further from Kane, Aishani left the kitchen to make for the stairs with Shadow following her closely like a loyal dog, merchants and staff gasped and jumped out of the way to the ghastly sight.

Kane groaned as he lent against the kitchen wall, before finally waving off the protests of having Shadow in the mansion. He drew one long breath then righted himself as he strode from the kitchen and up the stairway to their room.

“Please tell me there are no more surprises today, I’m not sure my poor head can handle them” He groaned stripping off his cloak simply letting it fall to the ground and waling to sit in the window the cold air at least for the moment wiping the pain from his mind.

Aishani closed the door after he entered the room and Shadow began to explore around the floor and even climbed the walls to nestle comfortably in a corner that was possibly near a pipe. She turned to face him as he settled on the window perch. Aishani parted her lips to speak but fell silent, removing her gloves and coat, gathering his own to drape over a chair together. Then proceeded to settle across from him while guiding him to lean and lay his head in her lap, fingertips gently working in a massage upon his temples while her opposing hand combed through his threads.

"I wish, I could say that it wasn't a surprise, Kane. But, I have had Shadow keeping watch upon Aerian whenever she leaves the estate. It is no different than her leave with Hades..." She paused, swallowing thickly. "Winter or not...we cannot remain here. She told me that Aerian and Hades were attacked...and taken to Ceremon's castle. Shadow was right to come back immediately, she knows that she was outnumbered and held no chance against them. Let us pack warm clothing and food, we have to leave at once. But, my concern is the fact that Ascondia is here now. To leave her within this estate does not settle well with me without you or I present. Is that the cause of the pain or headaches?" Aishani fell silent, caressing her fingers through his dark threads, but watching him for his reaction.

Kane remained silent his eyes closed as the knot in his stomach twisted into a cold feeling, it would be hard to miss the wave of emotion that ripped through his mind anyone close enough would feel it, yet he remained silent. Chaos ripped at him from every direction and in that moment he allowed it to.

It took a few minutes but finally he pushed the wave down sitting “No the headache is because Aerian is in severe pain, or serious trouble, or throwing a temper tantrum sometimes its hard to know for sure” he breathed slowly the thoughts finally beginning to make sense to him “We will have to go alone, I cannot dimish forces here in Dentarius, even for my daughter or my brother”

He shifted awkwardly as he sat slowly “As for Ascondia we are left with two options, one leave and pray she leaves in the morning as she is supposed to do, unfortunately no one in Dentarius is capable of making sure that happens, secondly we take her with us, she is a skilled mage and not too bad at close quarters combat, a prospect I admittedly do not envy” He scratched his head awkwardly unnerved by his own suggestion as to taking the one person in the realm he actually did not wish to be around longer than needed “It does however concern her daughter”

Aishani clicked her tongue upon the roof of her mouth, narrowing her gaze outside the window. "While I do not care for the suggestion to bring her with us...I cannot argue that this involves her daughter. I have seen the tension between her, you and Ascondia. The relationship the three of you share is stretched to the limit, it is ready to break. This is in the best interest of Aerian that is important. Ceremon...I know he must be capable of torture, but, she is kin...as far as Z'ress is concerned, kin or not, is very cruel and heartless. After all she is out for blood to end my link to life, her own flesh and blood." She fell silent for a time. "I believe we need to bring this to her attention. There is to be none of her noisy men, except perhaps Alvin. The less attention we get the better."

“I would agree the less of us that approach Ceremons hide away, the better and also you are correct in your assumption Ceremon wouldn’t hurt Aerian, he is honourable in never harming her, Z’ress I’m far from sure and Hareavor … has already broken Aerian more than she or I would care to admit” He sat slowly his eyes looking out of the window in silent thought for a moment.

“We should go speak with the Queen” He spoke coldly his tone and choice of words simple in their statement she was the queen and nothing beyond their daughter mattered to him “Just when things between Aerian and I looked like they may finally begin to repair themselves” He sighed softly kissing her cheek gently “Whatever happens I’m glad I have you”

"Unforeseen events, Kane. The bond that I have seen that never dies is that between family. She may act like a brat at times. Aerian loves you and I believe after we rescue her, which we will, you two need to spend time together. I have a feeling she will need you." She pressed her lips to his briefly when he withdrew from the kiss to her cheek, curling a hand within his and instilling a squeeze. "You will have me at your side, no matter the circumstance. She is the Queen to you and only a title to me which I will not acknowledge since I am not from this realm. Undeniably the mother of Aerian...Enough talk, I will send Shadow ahead to scout for us."

The blade spider thudded to the floor looking stunned for a moment then moved to Aishani, the palp chattering against the venom dripped fangs. A smile formed on her lips, while running her fingers through the dark fur and nodding. "I will see you soon enough, stay warm and safe, Shadow." Aishani stood now, guiding Kane to rise and open the window to allow Shadow the exit.

After watching the spider skitter on the high walls then disappear from sight. "Kane, my love, it is time to visit the red-haired witch of the West."