Anne Ellis Xile

[Anne]

Anne walked into the Outback with Caleb close behind. She waited a moment until Vince requested a duel and the ex-pirate decided to oblige. She reluctantly stripped to her tee shirt and boxers. The scars from her duel with Black were still fresh. The bandage wrapped around her upper right thigh where she had been shot was thankfully covered by the silk. The fists duel started downhill. Vince was good and it was hard to judge distance in the pool. It ended with a close score of 5-4 but that one short fight wore her out.

“How are my kids?”

“Growing like weeds. I was wondering if you ever plan on taking them back.”

A hot feeling rushed into her cheeks. Anne whispered softly as she pulled herself out of the pool. “I was. I tried to talk to you when you were floating up in the air a week or so ago…I guess…but it’s no excuse. I’ve been neglecting them.”

“Well then, when would you like them? I was hoping to have an excuse to not keep a copy of me on Algol Siento anymore.”

“Right away, if you could. I'm terribly sorry, I should never have left them with you. It was selfish of me.” The ex-pirate rubbed her bare arms absently; a horrible twisted feeling instilled itself within her stomach. The urge to puke was overwhelming.

“Good. I'll bring them over to the palazzo tomorrow.”

Pale feet moved cautiously along the edge of the pool, hoping to hit her clothes and walking stick at some point. Caleb had been slowly detaching himself, her self-reliance increasing. The next moment Anne had her sweat pants and hoodie on. Quickly the ex-pirate left the outback in hopes for an easy walk around the Palazzo grounds. Once her kids were dropped off, there would be no rest.

[Anne]

Katharine ran up to her mother and wrapped onto her leg. "Mom! Mom!" Anne reached down and picked up the little girl resting her on her hips.

"Yes sweet-heart?" Katharine explained something about a horse and magic rainbow as Chris shyly came up and tugged on Anne's hoodie. The ex-pirate nodded absently to Katharine while she patted Chris's head. "That's wonderful Kat. I see...what would you like Chris?"

The boy mentioned he was hungry. Did kids never stop eating? Carefully Anne set Katharine down on the counter. "Stay put sweetie." Chris was given an apple and Anne knelt down to play with Katharine.

That night as the kids were tucked into bed Kat asked for her dad. Anne forced a smile on her face. Was the girl referring to Vincent? That's what the mother assumed. "Daddy isn't here right now hun."

Slipping out of the lone bedroom Anne felt like a failure. She curled up on the couch and pulled a blanket over her head. Tomorrow would be better.

[Vinny]

(These events taking place right before Anne's last post)

The kids each had a hand in Vinny's as they walked towards the palazzo, enjoying the nice weather of the day. he looked down at each of them, his face full of good cheer, but with a touch of sadness thrown in. "Now remember kids. Mommy's really excited to see the both of you, but don't be all over her from the moment you see her. She'll probably need a few minutes to adjust to how big you've both gotten since she's last seen you."

Chris looked up at him. "Daddy, does this mean that we won't get to see you again?"

He didn't particularly like being called daddy, mostly because it brought up feelings of wanting to have a family of his own, but he would rather have the kids look up to him as a father figure than Black. In fact, he prefered that they not even know he existed. "Of course not Chris, but it does mean that I won't be there as often. You, your sister, and your mother are always welcome to come visit me though."

Then they reached the door and knocked, waiting for Anne to answer.

[Anne]

The moment I came back from Rigel everything was a whirlwind. First I had to go and check in with my attorney's and the judge. Due to our postponed stay and the huge clog-up in the system the trial would be postponed till the start of December. At that point we'd go over all of the evidence again. Apparently they have some new incriminating evidence to counter the testimonies of Nadine and the statement from Donatien. For some reason I'm worried they may have found out about Blacks murder. The mix-up in Rigel doesn't help my case either. Being associated with Kendrick is just another strike against me.

I did some calling for the League while waiting, spent time with my kids, and enjoyed Caleb’s company. Katharine and Christopher have grown so much, they look to be almost four. In reality it has been mere months. I'm worried about them; I don't want to die anymore. I used to. I desperately wanted to. Now I just want to be there for them. Caleb has been with me constantly. Yet we've worked out boundaries. I can go out by myself now; I just have to let him know where I'm going. Not exactly perfect, but it's better then when he stalked me day and night. We still have separate places for sleeping. I'm in a room adjacent to the kids and he prefers the couch across the hall in the living room. I don't know if I'll ever be ready to have him beside me in bed. We are unofficially engaged, but I’m having second thoughts. Why should we be married when I’m so close to death? Why put him through that? It bothers me but I don’t want to risk the subject with him. It’s amazing how many walls we have between us, I’m surprised that the secrets we keep and the silent words don’t ruin our relationship.

[Anne]

I’m doomed. We went over the evidence today. Those present were my attorneys, the prosecution, the judge and I. We presented our witness, Nadine, the statement from Donatien, and evidence to go against the grand theft I committed. The prosecution presented a video. I didn’t need my eyes to see what was captured, for the judge described it to me and I heard the voices and the gunshots. I didn’t need a film to make me relive those moments. It was a video that someone captured of the duel between Black and I. They showed how I killed him, despite the closeness of my own death. Would it be counted as self-defense? Perhaps, but if they could get Skyler to testify that I arranged the meeting…and if the found one of his goons that testified of the same thing. That’s two witnesses against me. Solid evidence in a court of law.

After the meeting I quickly went home and took my children out for a walk. After that I hired a sitter and decided to get Christmas gifts for my kids. Nathaniel’s wife helped me pick out the gifts for the kids. Jeans, a nice shirt, and a brush for Katharine and for Christopher she suggested a book, some racecars and a down coat. After the purchases were made I decided to continue buying gifts for Azjah, Klint, Artemus, Shandren, and Rhaine. Once again Nat’s wife was generous in offering to help me find gifts. For Azjah I bought some nice driving gloves and a pair of stiletto shoes. Klinton received a sword that I believe he could use for the duels and a tie that Nat’s wife assured me he’d love. Artemus and Shandren received some clothes for their newborn and candles for the two of them. Rhaine was a challenge. I settled with writing the sincerest note of apology and a book on the philosophies and intricacies of humans. She’d find it humorous I hoped.

Then I was presented with the challenging task of giving something to Caleb. I waited till I had wrapped all the gifts, had the cards written and then said I was going out again and would be back within the hour. Carefully I walked through RhyDin, the chill air nipping at my face. What does one give an assassin? I thought. I bumped into a bench and decided to sit down. I asked someone where I was so I could get a general idea of my location. I was at the edge of bad side, near the docks. Pulling my coat closer around me I mused, he would probably be happier just getting married. Or would he? I didn’t know. Nothing that came to mind seemed fitting.

Then it hit me. I got up and found my way to the Death Mage. It was slippery and unkempt but I knew where I was going. Eventually I found what I was looking for. A dagger that I had discovered on one of my treasure-hunting expeditions. I ran my hand over the blade and hilt. From what I remembered, it was extravagantly carved with a black hilt and a dark blade etched with red runes. Quickly I wrapped it up, though I was in violation of my bail conditions having a weapon on me, and hurried back. The moment I returned I placed it with the other gifts.

Standing up quickly I listened for my children. They were in the kitchen. Slowly I made my way there and heard where Caleb was. This could very well be my last Christmas and I would make the most out of it.

[Rhaine]

The note and the book arrived at the Adventurer Guild, the only thread that connected her with the city. Rhaine's delicate fingers hovered over the parchment, pale threads of the spell shimmering between fingertips and the paper. She could only read like this - or in wavelengths other than visible spectrum.

"No. I need to break free. This apology might tie me. And to complete the Ritual I have to be free from everything that binds me to this place. "

Rhaine walked into the Outback. She watched the duels, sipping the dark wine with berry taste - taste that reminded her of a valued enemy. The task at hand was simple enough - for a life mage of her class.
Anne appeared - vampiress could sense her spectral pattern, hear the soft sound of her walking cane. Rhaine watched her duel against Skyler, and by the end of it was ready to move out. As Anne dropped down from Ring Styx, dark Life Mage decided it was time to get her into the lab. But the new warding of her hideout was too much for Anne to handle... Rhaine knew it well. She opened a dark rift, and dragged Anne in. Skyler tried to follow, but the rift closed right in front of him.

Her new study in the Temple of Asmodeus was much larger than her room in Clandestinian Temple. Vampiress pushed Anne into an armchair and leaned to take a better look at her eyes. That was a grim picture - eyeballs destroyed, even a part of optic nerve was burned. But better than having the entire nerve destroyed and part of brain circuited .. at least it could have been worse.

Anne seemed to be suffocating in the cold air of the Temple. Normal reaction. The Presence of Asmodeus was not yet fully there, but the warding added to it. When the Ritual is complete, it would be easier on the outsiders. Energy streamed through Rhaine - and yet another time she thanked Asmodeus for the power to implement the wards. She warned Anne that the casting might hurt, and she should not expect an immediate effect. In the end, a true biomage doesn't force near-instant healing, it exhausts the body much more than accelerated regeneration. Much more than rational. Anne winced as the spell removed scar tissues, and revealed the tissues ready for regeneration. Rhaine weaved the spell - accurately and confidently. She had been doing that for centuries when she was a Knight and battlefield healer. Magic softened the pain, and covered Anne's eyes. The delicate threads of spell formed something that could be seen like a black soft scarf covering Anne's eyes.

"You are not Corwin of Amber," Rhaine chuckled. "So it would take a month. With rational energy consumption."

When the rift opened to take Anne out of the Temple, the dark priestess dropped into her favorite armchair, and covered her face with her hands. Done. Now she had to prepare for the Ritual.

[Anne]

The trial moved at a snails pace. It was all very blurry to Anne, a mess of sounds, textures, and thoughts. They revisited the Grand Theft of the Golden Sun and Anne surmised that the judgment on that one would probably be a little nicer. Afterwards they revisited the case of Eliza’s death. For Anne, it was absolutely brutal. They examined and cross-examined the crap out of her. Then Donatien’s statement was read about Blacks horrendous character and so forth. Nadine was brought to the witness stand. Anne could just feel the hatred seeping off her and she wondered how it had been for her, living at the Palazzo for so long with no one for comfort. The ex-pirate almost pitied her. Almost. Nadine seemed in pain with every question, but she told the truth and the complete truth. The Court was to go into recess for the Christmas holiday weekends and then return shortly after.

Anne felt as if she needed a break. Caleb agreed to watch the kids until the babysitter came so Anne could take a walk. They would meet up again at the outback. While walking back from the court she pulled her jacket tighter. The snug jeans and well-fitting black v-neck blouse was stylish but not warm. Unbeknownst to Anne there was a wanderer whose eye she’d caught from a safe distance. Not having anywhere in particular to go could be a curse to some or a gift to others. To him, it was neither, simply the way things had been for a very long time. Thus, it became necessary to ask directions, often frequently, the situation became such that he had no idea where the hell it was he had wandered himself into. He approached carefully, back straight, the most non-threatening expression he could plaster on his arguably moderately handsome face.

“Excuse me miss, might I bother you a moment?”

Anne turned around abruptly and wished she could see to whom she was speaking. “Sure.”

“Ah, I was just wondering, miss, if you could tell me where it is that I am?”

The ex-pirate adjusted the sunglasses on her eyes and took a firmer grip on the walking stick that served as a guide. It was a natural reflex for her to be on guard. “RhyDin. A nexus of sorts.”

“Ah, I see, madame.” The man was trying his best not to make it obvious he was looking her over, thinking it much to his fortune that the lass he picked at random to ask for directions was an exceedingly lovely one. He didn’t realize that she was blind and wouldn’t know if he was checking her out or not. “And, ah... Well, how do I get...” he thought a moment “Anywhere?”

She smirked a moment. “It depends. Do you want an inn, a place to brawl or cast spells, somewhere to eat, or would you rather have a tour of the whole place to begin with?” Anne almost added 'or a whorehouse' but figured the man wouldn't appreciate the crude language.

“Hmm, perhaps the last would be the best, my fair lass. I trust you're familiar with the territory?”

This man seemed less of a threat to her and more like a flirtatious male. Anne chuckled a moment. She proceeded to explain that she was a criminal in the process of making reforms. But not well liked by the majority. With the way he was hitting on her Anne was glad that Caleb wasn’t around. Her bodyguard would’ve knocked the man’s block off. She suddenly realized that the individual infront of her hadn’t given her his identity. “Your name?”

“Jack, miss, plain and simple, though I assure you, I am neither.” He extended his hand but it was her eyes that informed her. The movement notified her of his attempt to shake hands so she merely raised it. Jack took her hand, not quite putting anything together just yet, and gave it a good, firm shake, though he hesitated to wonder if perhaps he ought to have kissed it instead. He did enjoy the feel of her hand against his. “A pleasure to meet you....?”

“Anne.” She was tempted to add that it was also plain and simple but that she was definitely the opposite.

Jack smiled and nodded. “Anne” There was some brief discussion about what this Mr. Jack would like to do next. No decision was made in the end but he came back to his favorite subject. Anne.

“Perhaps I might ask you to tell me about yourself?”

Snoopy guy wasn’t he? Anne thought. “I'm a criminal. Not much else to tell.”

Jack frowned a bit. “A beautiful woman with poor coordination informs me that she was a criminal and is now not well liked. There seems to be much more to tell.” And here came the compliments.

Anne laughed again. “I'm blind...that would be the poor coordination. And there are those that like me, which I believe is against common sense. However, Lord knows I need good friends so I suppose I'll take them.”

“Oh dear... I am sorry to hear.” Jack felt a bit foolish for the poor coordination remark.

“Don't worry about it.”

“Do you get by like this, all on your own?”

The ex-pirate laughed softly. “I'm hardly alone.” Well, at the moment she was but it wouldn't be wise to let him know that.

“Hmm?”

“I'm being shadowed by a protector of sorts. So no funny business.” At this point Anne would've winked right then but instead a smile would have to suffice.

He smiled and moved to softly touch her hand. “What sort of protector is that?”

Anne figured that at this point she better tell him about Caleb. Shifting slightly at the touch of his hand she said clearly. “My fiance.”

His hand slid back, "fiancee" being one of those words that, in his mind, triggered a reflex of drawing back and covering himself to shield his body from angry blows and knife slices. “Ah!”

A small laugh escaped. “He won't” she was going to say he won't kill you...but then again it was Caleb. “Just watch the advances and your fine.”

The man smirked. “I will try my best, but it will be most difficult.”

Anne raised her eyebrows behind the sunglasses. “You're not the first to have that problem.”

“And what has become of the others?”

“Most of them were before the fiancé, I normally just gave them a good kick. Remember, I am a criminal. And the others since then...” she paused a moment and thought about Skyler…and then Kendrick. “I wouldn't know.”

Two lines of questioning came to Jacks mind, he picked one. “Oh, and what did this fiance do so to as avoid the kick?”

This drew a really rapturous laugh from Anne. “He insulted me instead of compliment me.” Anne grinned crookedly at the thought.

“Oh? And this... interests you?”

“We did a lot of verbal sparring, he was more interested in my personality then my good looks. Or so I gathered. When some serious problems arrived he was there, no matter how hard I tried to push him away he stayed. We went through a lot together and even after some disfiguration...I've healed some since then...he was still with me. And there was something about him that I liked, something I can't figure out.”

“Ahhh” His prospects dimmed greatly; even with the fiancee, he'd run across women before that panicked at the last minute and did foolish things. He could tell from her manner of speaking that she was not one of these women. “I understand.”

Anne shrugged; she picked up on the vibe that he was looking for some action. “Sorry to dash your hopes.”

“And such high hopes they were, too.”

Anne smirked. “There are plenty of beautiful women in RhyDin. Find an inn and pick one.”

“Ah, well, now we're getting someplace. Where might I find these inns?”

“One block in any direction generally.”

“Heh... Well, I thank you for that tidbit”

Anne was completely serious. “You're welcome. I'm not kidding you though, you walk in one direction for about 10 minutes and you're bound to find an inn, restaurant, or a home for the single pretty women if you know what I mean.” Whorehouse. Why didn’t she just say that?

Jack grinned even wider. So Anne wasn’t the only pretty lass. “Ahhhh, I see what you mean.”

“Anything else I can help you with?”

“No, I do not believe so.” Anne didn’t sense the movement soon enough. But he gently took her chin in his hand and kissed her lips. “I do thank you for your time. Good evening.” Jack slowly turned and began his trek onward.

It took a great deal of self-control to keep from whacking him with that stick. Thank the Almighty Powers that Caleb wasn’t here. That man would be in a coffin.

[Anne]

When Anne finally reached the outback Caleb wasn’t anywhere to be seen. A little unusual for him. Yet she didn’t have to wait long for some noise to be heard. His footsteps were unique like everyone elses and she knew in an instant who it was. Turning around she smiled at him. “Hey stranger.” A smirk was the response she got. Typical. He kicked the door open and strode in with his usual and old flair. Someone, probably Caedia snorted and said quickly. “You’re paying for the door when you break it.”

Caleb levele his Oakley’s to the one who spoke. “That should be interesting to see.” Anne just followed suit…without busting the door open. Some brief verbal sparring between herself and Gork occurred. The kid could be considered a jerk, but Anne just got the vibe that he didn’t take anything seriously. Things settled quickly and Anne was taking her glass of lemon juice thoughtfully. What Caleb said next surprised her, but only mildly. “So who is he?”

“Hm? Who?”

“Just because I'm not there doesn't mean I don't know things...”

Perhaps that was why he took a little longer then Anne expected. Caleb had connections everywhere. She felt extremely safe with him, and she would never betray him; but Anne couldn’t help but wonder what sort of freedom this relationship was going to allow. “Oh...the guy I met up with on the way here to meet you.” Caleb merely grunted. Yes in his language. She finished the glass and set it down. “Just some wandering guy from what I gathered.”

“Rather stupid for a wanderer.”

She smirked. “He was dissapointed that I was engaged already. Probably looking for a night in bed.”

“So then, since he's just a wanderer, you won't mind me... relieving him of his stupidity...”

Anne couldn’t believe it. The guy ran into her, was polite, asked for directions, talked…well maybe he did still a kiss…but still, did that justify Caleb going to outright murder him? Her tone of voice became harder and she gave a firm reply. “Of course I would. Don’t you get sick of just killing people?” The fact that he’d murdered so many people in Rigel still stung. Why did she love this man?

“It's in the blood...so you gonna beat on anyone tonight?” Caleb was quickly shifting topics.

“In the blood huh.” Anne thought back to that stolen kiss for a moment. She reached out and took his hand holding it in both of hers. It was rough and calloused, yet at times it was the gentlest part of him. Softly, confidently she whispered to him. “You won’t lose me to someone else. Only death can take me.”

Caleb chuckled, and it was dark. “And he won't do that either.. he owes me a few favors.” Anne didn’t say anything in reply, after a moment she quietly ordered more lemon juice. It was similar to her comfort food. She desperately wanted to stay with him, but death certainly could and would take her the rate things were going. In a couple days, it would be Blacks turn for justice and Anne didn’t think she could handle it. Caleb said something about beating on someone. It brought Anne out of reverie for a moment, just to shrug, but she was quieter still. Was this selfish of her? To be hoping so much for life when it seemed so far away? Wouldn’t it just hurt Caleb for her to spend so much time with him then for her to leave so abruptly into another realm? Black must be having a field day in hell. He must be laughing like a maniac. Anne shuddered suddenly at the thought. A distraction is what she needed.

“Anyone up for a duel?” Someone replied quickly and she asked them to call it in. Black eyes studied her and she felt him watching her, wondering what was wrong. Anne attempted to give Caleb a reassuring smile. He didn’t buy it for a moment, but he kept his silence. The duel was quick, though she was on the losing end. The man offered to buy her a drink in appreciation. Somehow Anne didn’t think that would be a smart move.

Caleb made sufficient noise as he approached. She smiled at him, it was not something he was accustomed too. His voice was no better than his boots scraping against the gravel. “I've seen enough to know you're not right tonight..”

Still smiling she replied. “I'm fine. Just tired.”

“Is that it, is it?” His voice enough to know that he knows better. Anne’s smile faltered…barely…then she grinned and reached out for his hand reassuring him she was just tired. Anne heard him grunt and new that she would get an interrogation later. Well better late then now. They sat down once more and Anne received some more lemon juice. That stuff would burn her insides clean.

“What about you, you okay?”

“When am I not?”

Immediately and seriouls Anne replied. “When you're not stalking me.”

“You don't like me stalking you.”

Anne smiled, he was making sacrifices and she realized that. “I'd rather you walk beside me, not in the shadows twenty-five feet away." He found himself speechless a moment. Then he opened his mouth to turn a rude comment, but quickly bit his tongue. Damn if this woman wasn't going to kill him. Anne could sense that he wanted to say something. “Go ahed, say what you wanted to.”

“Do you want to head home?”

The ex-pirate chuckled. “That's not what you were going to say.”

“No.. it wasn't..” She raised her eyebrows inquiringly. “Why me?” This question, too, was not the origional, but it would suffice for now.

Anne nearly chocked on her juice but managed to reduce her look to that of one of puzzlement. “What do you mean why you?”

His lip curled.. he despised these conversations. “You had a choice.. why me?”

There was a slight awkward pause. Anne took a deep breath and muttered slowly. “Didn't expect you to come up with this topic of conversation.” Caleb’s mouth snapped shut, the crack of his jaw able to be heard across the room. Anne realized he was on edge and decided it better just to answer. “To tell you the truth, I don't know. I mean...I have an idea but wouldn't that be better explained somewhere less public? For some reason, I don't think you were going to ask that question either. No matter, I probably won't get it out of you anyway.” He stood, the chair grating across the floor as he does so. She sighed inwardly, that's done it. His jaw was still clamped tight, the muscles rippling along the jawline. Anne stood up, grabbed her walking stick and found her way to the general direction of the bar. “Caedia?”

His voice came through those clenched teeth, though one could never tell if they didn't see it. “Would you...” His voice brisqly stopped as he watched her turn and move away from him.

“Can I please have a bottle of pure lemon concentrate for the way home?” Anne then turned towards Caleb. “Would I what?”

He had tried the nice route.. he couldn't hack it. “I'm headed out....” Caleb tried one more time. “Care to join?” Anne agreed to, took her lemon concentrate and headed out with him. He stood there, his muscled knotted and taught. The predetor waiting for it’s prey, until she came, then he turned to slide out with her. His grace that of the hunting panther.

As soon as they were out she got right to it. “Okay, what's on your mind.”

“You and your decision.”

“Are you sure that's it? Because somethings bothering you and for some reason I just don't think that's it.” Why would Caleb of all people be asking this? She just didn’t understand it. He seemed content enough just to be with her. What had she done… Anne was beginning to doubt if this would work.

“What would you have me say?”

“The truth. I feel like we're still keeping secrets from each other and it's killing me.” It was true, and Anne really hadn’t been all that honest. But she was going to change that tonight.

“I want to know why me, Anne..” Caleb rarely used her first name. Each time he did, there was more in his voice than he could ever explain. It sent chills up her spine.

Anne stopped walking a moment and tried to organize her thoughts. Slowly she started walking again and replied. “You never gave up on me. You looked further then my skin. You...you've changed in some ways for me.” Anne opened the lemon concentrate and took a swig. “I don't know...other then that ...there was just something about you that” she shrugged and continued to drink.

“That..?”

“That...that made me trust you? care for you? I don't know. But it's something strong.”

His chuckle was dry. “Trusting an assassin...”

Anne didn’t know why but that comment and that laugh hurt. For some reason it cut deep. Did that mean she wasn’t supposed to trust him? She furrowed her brows and shot back. “Laugh all you want. I've said that to myself more then once and for some reason I still do.”

He dropped back into his old routine.. that of seemingly not caring. “Yet you still find yourself accepting kisses from strangers..” It had hurt, her words and that singular action..
He was trying his damnest for her.. but he had never been in.. love? No.. he had only had a mate once..

It was like a punch to her stomach. She stopped suddenly and didn’t bunge an inch farther. She almost told him that she got more affection out of strangers then she did from him. But something in her worried that if she said that he’d just blow up and leave. He stopped and turned to her, his arms coming up across his chest. Anne fought tears before they could even have a chance to surface. She didn’t want the kiss. She honeslty hadn’t. Softly she whipsered fighting anger and hurt in one. “I didn't ask for it” she paused a moment before continuing “But that doesn't matter to you does it?”

“You truely think it doesn't?”

“I don't know what to think. That's why it was a question.” The anger inside her was ready to surface.

“I suppose that if I didn't care, I wouldn't be around...say the word and it will be simple enough to step back into the night.”

Anne felt this panic within her rise. Controlling herself she managed to keep the fear to just a frown. “Would you? After all we've been through. One bad argument, one angry word and you'd leave me forever? You only stay because I want you to, not because you want to?”

“I said nothing about leaving you.”

“Step back into the night. What exactly, then, does that mean?”

“You wish me to walk beside you.. and here I am..”

This was it then. She would find out just how deep his commitment ran. “But you'd be content to just watch at a distance. So, let me present another scenario. An argument and an angry word and you disappear into the night. Heaven forbid, but let's say I gave up on you and found someone else. Got married, had kids...assuming I live through this trial. You'd be okay with just watching me live my life with another man?”

His voice, hard as diamond, still fell softly. “I know nothing else.” Anne took soft deep breaths that were imperceptible. He turned from her, his voice still hard, still spoken softly. “I know nothing else, Anne.. a mate is not the same as one you care about..”

“And what am I? A mate? Or someone you care about?” If he was ready to just stand aside…then she didn’t think this would work. Anne took a drought of lemon concentrate and walked forward slowly.

He did not move as she did. “I've had one.. you are the other.”

“That doesn't answer my question.”

“It does.”

Only if I make assumptions she thought as she stopped beside him. “In a vague way, but I want a clear-cut answer.”

His teeth clenched. “I've had a mate...”

Anne spoke softly, they were nearing the bottom of this. “Why's it so hard to say that you care about me? Did I do something wrong?”

“You know my profession.”

Anne sighed. She knew it all too well. “Of course.”

“And in such a profession, one does not.. love..yet here I am.”

“Yet here you are.” Anne repeated those words and to her it was some sort of last hope.

“I am walking into territory which I know nothing about, Anne...”

There it was, that same something when he said he name. She finished the bottle and chucked it behind her, her now free hand reached around him and she rested her head on his shoulder. They continued to talk deep into the night as they walked back home. Once they were inside the suit at the Palazzo Anne got changed, checked on the kids, poured herself some water and found Caleb. She climbed up on the couch and curled up beside him. There was complete silence until he asked once again what was wrong. Slowly she set her water down and linked her arms around his resting her chin on his shoulder. “Just chew on this, I don’t want you to answer just yet. I want to know when…or if even….we should get married.” Leaning slightly she gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and then returned to her bedroom. It had been a long night.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

December was a blur of activity. Dyson had decorated the Palazzo with fresh noble fir, holly, and bits of bayberry. The scent was delightful, and the greenery added a festive feel to the house.

Shopping had been accomplished, and gifts wrapped in gold and green foils, beribboned in red and gold, then laid beneath the 3 meter tall tree in the great room. Shopping for friends is easy, but I found shopping for Anne's children to be a serious challenge. Finally settling on several toys as well as the adult need to obtain several clothing items for fast growing children. Anne loved the open ocean, and so I arranged for delivery of a navigation system that would talk to her, so that until her eyesight was restored, or if she were busy with other ship board chores, she could hear the settings and headings without having to read them from a display. Klinton was my main difficulty.

This year's decorations were red and gold. The glitter of the lights off the ornaments was festive, and the staff was generally picking up the feel of the impending holidays. Music was often drifting in the air. Scented candles were arranged around the house, and in the evening, lit to provide the seasonal scents associated with the festivities.

Anne's trial had been delayed further by the back log of the court, and new evidence was being introduced by both sides. The whole thing was taking it's toll on everyone, but the attorneys seemed confident on Anne's behalf. I have to trust them. With every thing that has gone wrong this year, we need something to go right.

[Anne]

The next day I took another visit to the outback. I felt refreshed for some reason. Perhaps because the trial was being postponed for the holidays. Though it would resume January 2nd. They certainly want me dead and soon. The moment I entered the outback I was quickly engaged in a duel with Gork. Skyler came whilst I was dueling and proceeded to be an idiotic, egotistical and self-centered jerk. I have little tolerance for that boy and his persistent insults annoy me. The moment I got the opportunity I challenged him to a duel. Unfortunately it didn't turn out the way I would have liked. He ended up beating me and proceeded to make his usual insults.

"Anne, you are going with me. From here." Rhaine's words were music to my ears at that moment.

“Be careful, Rhaine. There's werewolves out tonight. Don't get eaten.”

I scowled at Skyler’s words. He has no idea of how capable Rhaine is. “All right Rhaine, let's go.”

Skyler followed behind us. “I think I'll come, too. Somebody's got to protect you ladies.”

“The werewolves would get poisoned if they try. And better not follow, Skyler, I would not be bound by restrictions if you venture out of here.”

I agreed. “It sure ain't gonna be you Skyler.”

“Nonsense. I'll watch out for you guys. Let's go.”

Rhaine took my hand and laugh quietly. “You know, Skyler, if I were you I wouldn’t follow.” She opened the rift and dragged me in. “Skyler is lucky he is not here.”

Blindly I followed. “Why's that? Where are we Rhaine?” I trust Rhaine with my life but I like to feel in control.

“We are in a place where you need access authorized by any of the Dark Triumvirate.” She led me to a soft armchair. “Sit down.”

“The Dark.. Trium-what?” I sat down obediently.

There was a slight chuckle from Rhaine. “Let me take a look what this idiot has done to your eyes. Usually deep regeneration is sufficient.” The room was rather cold, and there was a feeling of a Presence - dangerous, dark and powerful. I felt Rhaine’s fingers run over my face. It was a feeling of cold electricity and I shuddered inwardly. A trickle of fear ran through me. “Deep regen. Would take some time, of course.”

“How much time?”

“Depends... You are no Corwin of Amber, Anne. Your natural regenerating ability is normal.”

I smirked slightly. “Good to know part of me is normal.”

Rhaine’s fingers once more touched my face. “I would say a month - with optimum energy consumption.”

“Okay...a month.”

“I'm sick and tired seeing this brainless kid insulting anyone.” The Presence or whatever it was seemed to engulf the room; it was like a thick suffocating fog. “I'll get the spell activated and going, and in a month hopefully we would be able to get you to kick his sorry rear.”

“That would be satisfying.” I paused a moment trying to catch my breath. “Rhaine...it seems kind of...stuffy in here. Not that I'm complaining, just wondering what it is.”

A cold electricity of magic touched my eyes. “It is the warding... you are not one of us, it senses you.”

“Warding? One of us...it senses that I'm not a vampire?” I felt the spell embeds itself and remove the scar tissue. It was excruciatingly painful, like someone was ripping out the skin around my eyes. I winced and ground my teeth together. I was quickly reprimanded and told not to move. Rhaine proceeded to explain that she was Asmodean, a follower of the Grim Lord. I don’t remember her ever telling me this before. Soon a fog-like touch seemed to cover the opened tissue stopping the blood that I felt run down my face and the pain disappeared too. It was soon secured over my eyes. It looked and felt like a black scarf tied over my eyes. “Rhaine, thank you very much. I really appreciate this.”

“Nothing to thank for.”

“Just make sure your mate doesn't try to remove it. Might hurt him, and you.”

I nodded. “All right, I'll make sure I tell him.”

Rhaine offered me a hand. “Let's move out, before the warding starts to get on you seriously.”

“And yes, this is something I need to thank you for.” I stood up and took the hand. “It doesn't like me at all does it?”

“Just security”

I nodded. “Okay.”

When I arrived back at the Palazzo I immediately told Caleb what happened. He wasn't pleased with any of it, particularly about Rhaine taking me. I don't think he likes anyone taking me somewhere he can't go. He won't try and remove the spell though which I am grateful for.

[Anne]

I wanted to take another visit to the arena before New Years. I stepped in carefully my walking stick in hand to act as a guide. Gork came over and returned my sunglasses, which he had broken in the outback a few days back. Apparently he didn’t want to see my eye sockets again. I couldn’t blame him really. Caleb followed in shortly with his usual statement of kicking the door open. He was still in a bad mood. I figured he needed to let out some steam so I invited him to a duel. The man had some consideration left as he dueled with only his hands and without his normal rusty blade. I wouldn’t have minded either way. Part way through the duel he spoke of me relieving him of the marks I was giving him.

“Relieving you? How so?”

“It's the least which you can provide to me for allowing yourself to be taken last eve.”

“Wh-“ I chuckled slightly remembering that he knows of everything. “Rhaine not only helped me escape Skyler last night but she's helping me get my eyesight back. I'd be thanking her if I was you.”

“She'll be lucky not to have her throat slit, and she can consider that thanks enough.”

My jaw dropped. “You stick in the mud. Rhaine's one of the safest people I could've been with.”

I dueled two others that night. Tass and Sky were their names. Tass defeated me while Sky won. When I had finished dueling Sky I hear Rhaine come over, her voice clear as she approached. “Let me see if change in energy consumption has distorted the spell.”

“Okay, go ahead Rhaine.”

“Mind if I sit down whi-” I heared Caleb step infront of me, he seemed on edge and didn’t like the fact that Rhaine was trying to help. “Caleb, she's helping.”

Rhaine smirked. “Your tame ass-ass-in is trying to keep you blind forever, Anne. At least he does his best to do this. Would take a few seconds, do not worry. Mere check if the change in energy balance could alter it.”

“Go right ahead.” I nudged Caleb to let her by. “Let her help Caleb. I'd trust her with my life, just like I trust you.”

Rhaine took my hand and moved me a step to the right. “There is no need for him to trust me.”

“What is the reasoning for her to do this?”

“She's my friend, she'd like to help me see. Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing my kids and you before I die.” I muttered softly. “Which could be very soon at the rate of this trial.”

“No... no change... buffer works fine. Just you need to eat more, Anne”

That news didn’t surprise me. I had been told by many people I didn’t eat nearly enough for a woman of my size and age. “I'm just not hungry. But I’ll try Doctor Rhaine.”

My friend chuckled “If you don't want to eat more in volume, try to get more protein into your diet. The spell will keep you more hungry than usual.”

“I'm sure I can get more protein in.” Caleb once mentioned hunting, I’m sure he could find me enough meat to fill myself.

“I don't want to force your metabolism too much.”

“Thanks again for your help Rhaine.” I heard Caleb turn, go to the door, kick it open and walk into the night. I sighed inwardly. He wasn’t happy.

“And better if you catch up with that silly male, Anne.” I agreed and headed out quietly. I didn’t call out for him because frankly I wasn’t in the mood to put up with his arrogance. I found my way home, ate some bread and nuts and then went to bed.

[Kendrick Albrecht]

Kendrick took a deep breath of the park air. It was a nice day to be out walking especially since he expected to meet someone today. He had chosen the disguise carefully, he was a few inches taller than normal and his skin had been turned to a dark brown. He leaned heavily on a walking stick as he shuffled along in his dark suit complete with a bowler for his now bald head. He watched Anne as she approached slowly using her guiding stick and being overly careful so as not to bump into anyone.

Kendrick cleared his throat lightly and in a raspy old voice addressed here quietly as she came even with him on the path, "Pardon me missy but you wouldn't happen to have the time?"

Anne stopped in her tracks as something familiar in the voice struck a cord. She hesitated a moment before answering, "No, I'm sorry I don't."

Kendrick smiled slightly, "Ah well, I used to know a nice girl that came through here around a certain time and I was hoping to meet up with her. I'm sorry to bother you." Kendrick switched back to his normal voice, "Your servant, Milady."

Anne immediately recognized him now and she pursed her lips a moment before responding, "What are you doing here?" she asked softly.

"I thought I was saying hello to a friend but if I am over stepping my bounds I will certainly depart."

She chuckled slightly, "You're not over stepping your bounds."

He switched back to the back to raspy old guy voice for a moment, "Well then missy would you do me the honor of walking a while with this old soul?" he said with a chuckle.

She smirked slightly, "The honor is all mine," she paused momentarily, "Old Soul."

"How are the children? Happy to be home again?" He asked as they began to slowly walk around the edge of the pond.

Anne shoved her one hand into the coat pocket and walked with him, the mental picture of the two of them with walking sticks made her laugh inwardly, "Yes, they're glad to be safe and sound. Growing like weeds and eternally hungry."

"Good to hear. And I've seen your illustrious paramour here and there, I take it he continues to avoid the long arm of justice. Something we have in common.
Personally I think if it wasn't for his irrational hatred of me...well we'd still probably dislike each other but you cant have everything."

Anne laughed softly at that, "I think I'm the only reason you two aren't tearing each others throats apart. And as for avoiding the long arm of justice, you two ought to teach me how you manage it because I'm not doing so well in that regard."

"Yes I've been following the trial. Is there anything I can do to help...I doubt I'd be much good as a character reference but I am not totally without resources." Kendrick offered his voice turning serious.

Anne shook her head no. "No, I don't think there's anything you can do. Thank you for offering though. What are you doing RhyDin though?"

Kendrick considered how to answer her, "Well your dear friend Azjah seemed so taken with the place I felt I just had to at least visit. Besides, I'm not welcome on Rigel right now and the only other place in the universe that I have a friend is right here so there really wasn't much of a contest." He smiled as he thought of something, "Speaking of your friend, I sent her a nice gift basket the other day...sort of a late welcome home present. I do hope she enjoyed it."

Anne coughed as she almost choked, "Do you want to get caught?" she asked incredulous.

"No but what is life worth if you don't at least live it. I spent my entire life behind a title. I'm enjoying finding out what life is like outside of the rituals and false smiles and I'm finding that I like it." He paused for a moment, "I even have a job." He said laughing softly.

"Oh really? And what job would that be?"

Kendrick let out a theatrical sigh, "Now that would be telling. One thing first, will you give me your word to keep my presence here in this happy little hamlet a secret?" She thought hard about it for a moment, silently weighing the consequences. He watched her face as she considered and he added, "I promise not to put you or your friends in mortal danger this time."

She smiled slightly, "That's a relief." He ignored the sarcasm.

"Besides," he continued, "Without Lady Caer, who would be around to try and catch me."

She glanced at him, "You enjoy this chase don't you. I can't say I blame you, that was part of the thrill while I was a pirate."

"I actually considered that line of work when I first left Rigel...but the baggy pants would be quite unbecoming, and eyepatches are as a rule not my style."

Anne laughed, "I never wore baggy pants or an eyepatch."

"Well I may have been misinformed it seems...though you are a woman and there may be different rules involved." He said with a chuckle.

She nodded slightly, "True, there were slightly different expectations." She lapsed into silence thinking of those days long gone.

Kendrick glanced at her and suddenly realized what he had said, "I am sorry. I have made light of something that is painful to you. I did not mean to upset you."

"No. No not at all."

"Well if you'll trade me a promise for a secret I'll tell you what my job is. I promise it will at least make you smile."

"Knowing you're still alive makes me smile. I promise I won't let anyone know of your presence. On the condition you won't place Azjah, Klinton, Caleb or my children in danger. It would be a pity if I had to trade in a friend for a friend."

"That promise I will gladly give." He waited for a moment and then in a mischeivous voice asked, "So you want to know?"

"Yes."

"I, Milady, am a sanitation engineer."

Anne burst out laughing, "A janitor?"

"Please, we prefer sanitation engineer. It is a noble profession. Though I confess the floor waxer is still giving me problems. Fun to ride though. Like I said, I decided to try a new path, though I'm getting tired of the janitorial arts. Perhaps a stint as a florist next."

She kept laughing, "A florist?"

"Why yes, I can continue my quest to find a flower as beautiful as yourself milady." he said with a smile, "No, I'm simply enjoying the simplicity of running for my life," he paused, "and I think selling flowers might be a good career move."

Anne smiled at the mental image, "I can picture it now, arranging roses, orchids. Perhaps an apron with floral patterns too. Well, at least you can now look forward to finding someone else to flatter besides myself."

Kendrick affected a mock wounded look, "But milady you are still the favored target of all my compliments. And they are concrete scientific observations rather than flattery but I have long since given up convincing you of that fact."

She chuckled softly, "Have you ever gone sailing?"

"I can't say that I have. Would you suggest that as a future career option?"

"I would. I happen to own a decent sized schooner called The Death Mage.
It's not in the best shape right now, its fallen into disorder actually. But once I get it fixed and cleaned up. Well I think you'd enjoy a quick trip out on the waters."

"I may at that, and perhaps by that point we'll both be free to do so." He glanced around realizing that his time was up, "Well Milady, I'm sorry to say that I must take my leave of you now. It would not do for you to be late. And when your fiancé asks who you walked with today you may tell him that you escorted a kindly old man around the park." He switched back to his raspy voice, "Onasis Bradley at your service missy. You be taking care of those fine children now." He began to hobble off slowly but then stopped and turned back, "Oh, and if you ever need anything simply come here and call 'Old Onasis' and I'll be along shortly."

Anne smiled and raised her hand, "Safe travels Onasis Bradley."

"And you too Miss Anne." Kendrick hobbled off out of the park, he had work to do in town this afternoon.

[Anne]

Anne had just come back from the Red Dragon Inn from talking with Azjah. She quickly took Caleb and asked if they could step outside for a while. He agreed and the stood for perhaps ten minutes. Him watching as the clouds played across the wanning moon while she tried to figure out how to start the conversation. The cold air nipped at her and she shuddered slightly. “Wow this is awkward.”

Caleb frowned slightly, hearing her words. “What is?”

“There are a lot of things I want to talk about with you. And for some reason I just can't do it.” This wasn’t starting off how she’d pictured it.

The frown Caleb had vanished, and he turned his gaze to look at her. Anne could tell she was being watched, perhaps for some sort of body language. A clue. “Why not?”

The ex-pirate shrugged trying to put it right. “I don’t know.” She paused a moment. “Caleb, back in Rigel…” she hesitated again. How do you ask your fiancé this things? “Someone made an attempt on Klinton’s life. Was it you?”

The frown returned, but his voice stayed even. “In which part?” He knew it would be easier to lie to her and tell her no, but he found himself actually not wanting to.

“What do you mean which part? Someone tried to kill him, and Azjah was involved too. The specifics escape me.”

Caleb nodded, though she couldn’t see it. “Specifics.. how specific would you like?”

“I want to know all of the specifics. Or at least a good majority.”

He turned his gaze once more to the moon, now fully hidden behind the clouds. “I was merely the tool, as I always am, used to deliver the message.”

Anne’s heart sank. “So you were involved. Why did you agree to it?”

“I was paid to 'make the attempt'”

“But...it was Klinton.” If Azjah found out about this…Anne shuddered inwardly at the thought.

“It was my way to get us off that rock, and with the guard that is always at Azjah's side, I knew that the 'attempt' would not be successful. I was also asked to deliver a letter.. but the contents of that letter I do not know.” Anne waited till he was done and was relieved by the fact that he planned it so Klinton would not die. It was some comfort. She thanked him for telling her the truth. At least their communication was improving. “In any case.. I was backstabbed by the one who would of gotten us off the rock..” his voice drifted to a colder state. “Such as I get for trusting...”

She winced. “You don't like the idea of trust do you?”

He glanced towards her. “I find that trusting hurts the worse... especially when others do not confide in return.”

“I trust you.”

“But you have doubt in me.”

That stung a little, but he was right. Merely hours ago she’d told Azjah about her doubts. The ex-pirate sighed. “I had. Had, doubts that this could work. I'm not the only person to have had cold feet. But I won't leave. I swear; I won't leave.” He brought up Kendrick and she convinced him that he was only a friend. “I know I've asked a lot out of you. I've asked you to trust me, I've asked you to trust my friends, I've asked you to communicate and be with my kids. You have no idea how much I love you and appreciate what you've done. Is there anything, anything at all that I can do to make this easier?”

“So again, I ask.. why did you choose me?” His gaze turned to her once more.

Anne smiled, if that’s all he wanted to know then things would be all right. She had already told him once, telling him again shouldn’t be a problem. In the end repeating her words wasn’t enough. “What would you like me to say?”

“What's in your heart.”

“I chose you because I love you.” The second time she’d uttered those words, and it came so easily, so freely, so simply. Caleb closed his eyes and turned his head to the sky once more. “Y'know... if we're going to get married, I'm thinking we should do it sooner rather than later.”

“You are going to be the death of me, you know this, right?” His voice turned rather soft, she had heard it like this only a few times. “’cause I, in turn, love you...” The talk continued, about crossing bridges when they came to them. Caleb insisted that Anne would be the death of him. She sure hoped she wouldn’t be. What proceeded was the arrangements for their marriage. They discussed the possibility of eloping, going to a judge and so forth. Eventually Caleb suggested they get a captain, Anne, to marry them. She suggested Azjah be the witness as well. The date. Tomorrow

Caleb lifted her up, the light from the moon breaking through the clouds. “Lets get you to bed then... it would seem tomorrow is going to be interesting.”

Anne laughed. “It'll be fun.”

[Kendrick Albrecht]

A messenger appeared at Anne's home early in the morning. Once she appeared at the door, he confirmed her name and handed her a voice recorder and a pot with a strange rose in it. The petals started red at their base and gradually lightened to orange then yellow than white as they progressed towards the tip. It almost made the rose appear to be on fire. After delivering the two items he turned and left.

Anne pressed the button and the raspy voice she recognized as belonging to Kendrick's alter ego, Onasis Bradley, issued forth.

Anne,

I release you from your promise to keep my presence secret since there is no longer a reason for it. Your friend is well aware of my proximity now though her hounds may have gotten a tad singed in the discovery. I do believe my time as a 'florist' is over, but I wanted you to have the first of my new flowers. The rose was inspired by you so I hope you don't mind that I have named it the Xile Rose. I considered removing the thorns but I decided that it would be too contrary to my chosen muse, after all the thorns are what make the rose interesting. It is my first attempt at "art" but I do not think it will be my last. Until we meet again.

Your Servant,

Old Onasis

The recording clicked off.

[Azjah von Drachen Walde]

Despite Eoin and Lucien’s objections, I headed for the Arena to do some volunteer work. It was reasonably quiet, and the Twins had confirmed that Kendrick was indeed in RhyDin, but no one has seen him, nor has he made any further contact after the call to my private line last night. He’d baited me with the call, and dared me to doubt his word of honour. While I loath the man with every fiber of my being, the word of a Peer is something one must be careful of impugning. The image had appeared to be from Rigel, but the twins assure me he has been in the warehouse where they were investigating the other night. No, Kendrick is here, in RhyDin, somewhere. And thus, Eoin stood at the door, and Lucien would remain unseen at my side for the night.

Topaz came into the room just as I was ordering my scotch from Hubie, and when I asked her how she was, she announced that she was bored. Somehow, I suspect a bored faerie is never a good thing. We spoke briefly about her son Daniel, whom it seems has left once again and did not even send word for the Yule days to her. This must be troubling him greatly, but he will have to come to terms with his discoveries about his mother, as well as about General Xenograg. Who is now known as Xenograg Bey after the ceremony upon the steppes.

She had asked me how things were for me, and I told her that short of Kendrick’s presence in RhyDin, things were well indeed. She did not know who Kendrick was, and as I began to tell her that in my view he’s a murdering bastard, Anne lunged in the doors, shouting my name.

“Azjah! He’s taking my kids Azjah! He’s taking MY kids!” She was nearly incoherent as she kept repeating that “he was taking her kids.’

“Who is taking your children?” I finally got her calmed down enough to speak to her, and my puzzlement was clear.

“I can’t believe it, the idiotic, self righteous…. VINCENT. He’s filing for custody!!” Anne was distraught and on the verge of hysteria.

I blinked. Vincent was very helpful earlier, and had even saved Anne’s life, but he is no relation to the children, and has no legal claim to them. “He has no claim what so ever on them Anne. What does he think he’s doing?”

A woman who’d come in shortly after Topaz spoke up, “Is he the father?”

Anne turned to her, “No! No, he was a helping friend is all.”

I shook my head, “The courts will not grant it Anne. He is no relation.”

She continued on, “He watched them for two weeks, WAS my friend.”

This was hurting Anne as nothing else could. Vincent’s turning on her now, and making this move. It would destroy their relationship, if it has not already.

“Azjah, he’s going to use DNA manipulation, which unfortunately is easy for him. And, and, he’s going to use the case that I’m not a good mother.”

Aya continued, “Then there is no use complaining if he is of no relation.”

Clearly Aya does not know Vincent, and his abilities.

Anne went on, “and he’s putting the fact that Caleb’s an assassin, and that I’m on trial and will be in jail. AZJAH!!” Her voice rose in desperation. “Do something Azjah! Those are my kids! I want to raise them, be a part of their lives. He can’t do this!” She sat down breaking into tears.

I wrapped an arm around her shoulder and guided her back to my sofa. “He has no claim Anne. There are too many witnesses that know he is not the father, even if he does try to genetically manipulate them. Where are the children Anne?” We needed to move the children immediately, and I want the twins to look after them, keep Vincent away from them at all costs.

She told me the children were at the Palazzo with Caleb. So much the better. “Alright, we’ll set Lucien to guard them, and we should probably move them to somewhere else where he can’t locate them.” I looked up at Lucien, who refused to budge, but he had already told Gabriel, and at that moment, the other twin was moving toward Anne’s suite to keep an eye out for Vincent.

Topaz suggested that we hire an assassin to take out Vincent since the courts would never give custody to a dead guy, and then she seemed to register that we were talking about the former Arch Mage Vincent, the guy with the penguins.

Aya did not understand Anne’s distress, “It is foolish to believe that his claim will have a chance, anyway, best not even concern yourself over this issue whatsoever.”

Anne looked at her, “You don’t understand, I’m on trial for murder. He could get claim.”

I shook my head, Vincent would never gain custody of those children, Klinton would see to that. “We will not allow him to take your children from you Anne.” I was trying to soother her, but until we could get the children safely away from Vincent, she would worry.

She took a shakey breath, “Okay, Lucien’s guarding them, right? You said he’ll guard them?”

I nodded at her as Aya continued, “No he can’t. He is not the father. It is as the official says, there are too many witnesses against the case. If the father cannot be reached, then the god parents would lay claim to them if you are found an unfit mother.”

Anne was nearly sobbing, “The father is dead.” She took a series of deep breaths, “Good thing I named you and Klinton god parents.”

Aya told Anne that “then the god parents would be next in line. So there is no concern over this issue.”

Topaz was of the mind to ruin Vincent’s character, make sure everyone knows he uses animals for dueling.

I had Hubie bring Anne her lemon juice, which she took and sipped slowly.

We sat upon the sofa while she rubbed her eyes tiredly, and I hugged her, “Anne, he will not prevail.’

She nodded, “He keeps claiming them as his kids. I don’t understand why. What’s wrong with him?”

I had no answers for her, but I assured her we would sit Vincent down and speak to him about this whole affair, and explain to him that while his help was appreciated, it does not make the children his.

She shook her head disconsolately, “He didn’t listen to reason.”

Vincent will have no choice but to listen. I will fight him with everything at my disposal for her. Those children need Anne, not a misguided being such as Vincent.

As Anne moved into the ring with Brian Helgraz, I froze as a middle aged man trotted down the stairs. The million dollar smile was characteristic for Geffen Siewelt, whom I had not seen in a very long time. Not since before the dragon attacks in RhyDin.

As I was about to speak to Geffen, the door was kicked open, and there stood Caleb with both of Anne’s children in his arms. He moved toward the table Anne usually occupies, and it was quite clear that he was struggling to maintain the upper hand with the two scallywags.

Geffen peeled the gloves from his hands and tucked them inside a coat pocket, his grey eyes surveying who was in attendance before pausing on me. He gave me a nod before ordering his Bourbon neat and having a seat.

“Busy night?” Geffen finally inquired.

I nodded at him, “A bit. I have not seen you in town of late Herr Siewelt.”

He gave me an even bigger smile, “Ah, yes, business is booming, so to speak.”

His oblique reference to the warehouse explosion was clear, but couched in mundane words where the nuance would only be caught by the person meant to catch it.

“Quite” I said as I gave him a suspicious look.

He slipped off the coat and cast about for a duel.

The door opened again, and every hair on my neck stood up as Kendrick slid inside, out of the cold. Lucien lightly touched my shoulder from his invisible place at my side. I could feel my features harden as Kendrick obtained a drink before heading for Caleb, bowing briefly to Christopher before turning to Caleb. “Mr. Feren, I’m glad to see that babysitting is among your many talents. Would you consider a match later? I fear I am in need of practice.”

Caleb took his time responding to Kendrick, and my hand slid to unbutton the silk jacket, giving me access to the grip of the DE in my shoulder holster. I would shoot the man with very little provocation at this moment.

Kendrick looked up at me with a faint smile, “I wouldn’t Lady Caer.”

I quirked a brow at him, “I will if needed Tuebingen.”

He gave me an easy smile, “I fear that you mistake my name. I abdicated my title to the young lord. I am simply Kendrick now.”

There was ice in my voice as I told him he was anything but simple. My fingers curled around the weapon, and a part of me prayed that he would give me a reason to put a bullet through his brain.

Caleb spoke softly, but I heard him tell Kendrick that he would happily eviscerate him within the rings, but that unfortunately, the wards would not allow permanent injury.

Kendrick bade him lead on then, and as they entered the ring, Kendrick looked up at me, “Oh, and Lady Caer, I believe the laws of this land proclaim this as neutral ground, would you outlaw yourself for me? I’m flattered. I didn’t know you cared.”

The smug bastard! “There are extenuating circumstances.” I informed him, and I seriously considered shooting the man where he stood in the ring.

Geffen abruptly took an interest in Kendrick’s and my verbal sparring.

Kendrick smirked, “Now you use my excuse.”

I’ll be damned before I’ll ever use an excuse! “Some things are worth the price.” And I prayed that the wards in this ring would fail.

Anne had heard Kendrick, and she fled her ring to gather her children to her, hugging them so tightly, I’m surprised they could breathe.

Kendrick displayed his association with Geffen as he suggested a wager to Geffen. “Mr. Geffen, care for a wager? If I win, you pay me double for my next commission. I lose, I do it for free?”

The man has been doing work for Siewelt! There could be nothing good about Kendrick working for Siewelt. Nothing. A tremor slid along my spine. What technology has Kendrick provided to the MacPhersons?

The duel went in Caleb’s favor decidedly, and Geffen pricked Kendrick, “Unless you plan on living off bread crumbs and pennies, you better do something soon Kendrick.”

I muttered something about hoping he expired, but Kendrick’s reply sat me bolt upright.

“Ah, no fear, for the last month, Miss Azjah here has been kind enough to pay me a salary too, so I’m quite well off for now.”

“Paid you? Are you daft?” I was mentally running through the payments I had made in the last month, and none of them had gone to Kendrick, nor any of his firms. What was he talking about?

“Well, the paycheck did say DWI, so unless you’ve been bought out recently….” He let the thought remain unsaid.

“What the hell were you doing at DWI?” I was still searching my mind for what he was referring to.

“This and that,” came his reply.

I remembered the other morning when I had the feeling that someone had been in my office, and now it seems that sixth sense was right on. Now I would need to see just what Kendrick had been up to.

Geffen kept his smile in place as he watched Kendrick lose to Caleb, “Disappointing Kendrick, but perhaps working for free will be incentive enough.”

“Geffen, you haven’t realized it yet, but I work for the challenges, money is not a big concern.” Kendrick had so many off the radar businesses, he would never have to fear going hungry. He then headed for Anne, and I nearly rose from my sofa.

When I thought things could not get any more complicated, Vincent walked through the doors. While Anne was busy with Kendrick, I had to try to figure out how to get Vincent’s attention without alerting Anne to his presence.

Too late, Chris had seen Vincent and gone running toward him, and I held my breath as Anne realized her son was gone. Vincent greeted the child, “hey kiddo.”

Anne froze, summoning her son back to her side at the sound of Vincent’s voice. “Christopher, come back to mommy now.

The child turned and headed back to Anne, and I relaxed as Vincent let the child go.

Kendrick was speaking with Anne and Caleb, and then turned to head for the door. He gave me a grin, “Good night Lady Caer, do give my respects to Lucy and Gabe.” Lucien snarled low, and the echo of thunder rippled outside the Arena.

I nodded curtly at Kendrick, “Pity about the wards Tuebingen.” He would always be the Earl of Tuebingen to me. Using his given name was not something I was prepared to consider. It would make him human. I did not wish to consider him as anything other than a vile wretch. His title was so much easier to stomach.

Geffen considered me a minute, “I don’t know if I should be offended or otherwise, Azjah. Thus far, Kendrick has more than proven himself a valued employee of our organization.”

I gave Geffen a cold look, “You hire questionable people Herr Siewelt.”

He smirked, “I hire qualified people. Only the best.”

“You hired a murderer.” My words were laced with the bitterness of 17 years of loss.

“I’ve seen nothing to substantiate your claims, Azjah dearest.” Geffen gave me a sly grin from his ring.

I took a sip of the scotch before responding, “You haven’t done your usual investigation then Herr Siewelt. He’s a wanted man on Rigel.” I wasn’t going to remind him of Cory and the instability he’s shown of late.

“This is not Rigel, Azjah.”

Geffen’s use of my first name was grating. We were not on the same side at this moment, and his obvious glee at having Tuebingen on his payrole was annoying to say the least. But, now that I know where the murdering monster is, I will alert the Rigellian authorities and let them deal with him.

Xenograg Bey arrived, followed inside by Mystic. I withdrew to consider tonight’s events.

Anne decided it was time to take her children home, and I concur. Having them here with Vincent is not a good plan. And, it would give me a chance to speak with Vincent without having Caleb or Anne present.

As I bade Anne good night, Caleb spoke to Vincent, Lucien heard it, but I could not, he told me Caleb told Vincent this: “Smith, you are correct. DNA can be easily manipulated, in more ways than one.”

I groaned. Threatening Vincent would not be the best idea, and I heard Vincent quip, “The fool’s in for a big surprise.”

I glanced at Vincent, “We need to speak before you leave.”

He sighed, “If you insist, although it will probably change little.”

I shook my head, “It will change much. And yes, we must.”

Geffen was once more speaking on the telephone in German, and I gave him a puzzled look as he said that something was big news indeed. There is much about Siewelt and his project that need to be investigated.

Vincent came to the sofa after his match, “Ok Azjah, What threats do you feel like making?”

I have no interest in making threats, and I indicated the sofa cushion next to me. “Vincent, why are you trying to lay claim to Anne’s children? They are not yours, you are not the father, what are you hoping to gain?” I would try for reason first, trying to figure out just what he was truly after with this move.

He gave me a level look through narrowed eyes, “I lay claim because I view myself as their father, having helped to raise them since they were born. I want to see them grow up in a place where they do not have to worry about pirates, assassins, and other unsavory characters.”

I sipped the scotch thoughtfully, “Vincent, you are not their father, your aid has been most valued, but now you will ruin all of that by this action. Additionally, you do realize that Klinton and I are the children’s god parents, and we cannot allow this.”

He was growing visibly angry as he told me that were I the White Lady herself, his course would remain unaltered.

I sadly shook my head. “Vincent, the Courts will not see you as the legal guardian. You have no claim.” He could make a lot of trouble, and cost Anne a great deal of money by trying this, but in the end, he cannot expect to take the children from their mother. “There are too many people who know you are not the father, and your threat of genetic manipulation will not help.”

He glared at me, his hands twitching, “The Courts will see that the current environment is not safe, that Anne and Caleb are not fit parents and they will be removed.”

“But they will not be removed to your care.” It was harsh, but the laws would never condone turning over the children into a stranger’s care.

“I will gain custody of my kids one way or another.” He was furious with my discussion, but if I could convince him that he would stand no chance in Court, perhaps he would back down.

“Klinton and I are legally the next logical alternative,” I pressed on.

He grabbed at my throat, choking me as he whispered in my ear, “they are my children, and as a loving father, I will give them the life they deserve.”

Lucien was there instantly, his hand wrapped around Vincent’s wrist in a vise like grip. The menace in Lucien’s face could not have been any clearer as he bared fangs at Vincent.

He let go of my throat, “They are NOT your children, and I will see you in hell before you get them.”

Vincent looked at Lucien and then at me, “You’re welcome to try and stop me, but you’ll fail. Miserably.”

I rubbed my throat, “No Vincent, it is you who will fail. Do not test me on this.”

He rose, “I will test. I will win. Because none of you can do what it takes to stop me.”

Thunder rumbled in the background at his words, Lucien radiated menace.

With that, he left.

Geffen was donning his coat, “Yet you have no legal bounds. You are in the same predicament as this Vincent. All decisions rest with the Courts. I thought you of all people would know that. You risk your reputation for two children?”

I glanced at Siewelt, “I do have legal rights Herr Siewelt. As the duly appointed guardian in the event that anything happens to Anne.”

He smiled, “The children are not yours, nor his. Or have yet to be proven his.”

I curled my fingers around the scotch glass, “I have the documents to support my claim.” There was no point in divulging just how much proof I have. The children would not be Herr Siewelt’s problem.

Lothar from the Temple wandered in, but I was ready to return to the Palazzo, and he was unable to find a partner for the rings.

There is much to do to safe guard Anne’s children, and Lucien and I headed home.