Post by Admin on Aug 1, 2020 0:44:24 GMT
A Dangerous Game (Combined) Part 2
(OCC: The original old threads have been combined to form a story)
Cole felt the slight stiffing of Greene’s body and knew the man was fighting the natural fear of being put back in the restraints on the pole. He was doing quite well at it also. It was a shame Cole knew he was going to have to inflict more pain. It was not his fault, if these people were not so stubborn a group, he could have left them alone a long time ago.
Frank walked over and stood behind Arianna and put his hand on her face and then on her shoulder, bending close to her ear saying, “So Princess, what do you think? You have to give them credit they did try.” With a chuckle he straightened up but did not remove his hand from Arianna’s shoulder.
For the first time he was able to get a good look at the two would-be rescuers. His attention was first drawn to the Egyptian who was just waking up. The man looked familiar. Frank looked at him then at Arianna. “Princess,” he started, “can this be your brother, the one known as Tarik.”
Arianna did not answer. Tarik nodded acknowledgment of the relationship. He did not say anything though because he did not want to lose contact with Richard.
“Welcome Amir, your sister and I are so glad you came. Aren’t we, Princess,” he finished bending down and kissing Arianna on the forehead then rubbing her face with his hand, lowering it to her shoulder and letting it drop a little lower down her front. “What a nice family reunion. One word of warning Amir, Tarik, am I right? I know you can do wandless magic, like your sister, but I wouldn’t if I were you. You see I have several guarding you who you cannot see, and Professor Greene hanging on the pole there has become the one to suffer if anyone gets out of line, ask your sister. I will not hesitate to blindfold you and her, which I guarantee will not stop me from having some fun… mostly with her of course.” Frank said with a chuckle, bringing his hand back up to Arianna’s shoulder and massaging it gently.
Arianna felt a cold chill travel through her body as Cole’s hand moved over her body. He had not touched any of her skin except for her neck and face, but the movements of his hands had given her goose pimples and an utter feeling of helplessness. She had fought hard over the years to kill that feeling, but it seemed she had not buried it deep enough yet. Again she looked at her brother and moved her eyes from right to left a couple of times to tell him to not do anything. His eyes were burning hot and she was not even sure he had seen the signal.
Tarik had caught Ari’s signal but he was beyond caring. Let the man come after him. How dare he even put one finger on his sister, let alone allow his hands to travel to places he would not be welcome. He fought not to use his magic. He could take out Frank Cole but he was not sure at the moment, how much backing the man had from the others around. If they were not Cole’s men then someone else was controlling them and they may have orders to kill all and just leave. Tarik had no confidence in himself to control his blood-magic so it stayed buried. He would just have to wait, and be ready to help the others if he could. This did not mean he could not give Cole a piece of his mind.
Tarik fought his bindings for a moment knowing full well he could not get out. Like his sister he could use his wandless magic to get loose but he could be taken just as quickly because he could not see behind him. Looking first at his sister then at his captor he said. “You know a lot about us but seem to forget about what happens to anybody who touches another Medjai's betrothed. My sister is taken and as such I would advise you to be aware that the Magi have long memories! Are we clear?”
The unspoken words between the brother and the sister were priceless to Cole. Arianna was surety for Tarik’s good behavior and Tarik was surety for Arianna’s good behavior if Greene gave out. He did hope he did not have to damage Arianna. It would be much harder to get her to join with him if he had to hurt her so early in their relationship. The roughness is usually used at a later date to stimulate the relationship. Now was a time only for gentle physical contact.
Arianna’s eyes turned to Tarik as quickly as her head would turn. In the old world scheme of things, Tarik had the right to make a contract for Arianna’s marriage, without even asking her opinion on the matter or about the man, but this was not the “old world” and Arianna knew Tarik knew that, so why say she was taken.
“I commend you Amir, for making yourself very clear, especially under the circumstances you are in… but I would like to recommend you do not threaten me. …. Oh I know you are going to say it is not a threat but a promise. … may I also suggest Tarik,” Frank said with venom in his voice, “you do not make promises which I will have to prevent you from living long enough to carry them out. Now, are we clear? Do not make me kill you Amir; it would be a shame to lose someone of your caliber. ….” Frank waited for a moment, and then added purposely moving his hand up Arianna’s neck and stopping where it would have been really easy for him to snap it never taking his eyes off of Tarik, “Your answer Amir?”
Feeling Cole’s hand around her neck, she could feel his mussels tightening and loosening. She calmly looked at her brother out of the corner of her eyes, pleading with him to be careful. Tarik’s only words were, “Who said I would be the one to carry out Magi justice? A word of advice and I suggest you heed it … relearn what is stronger the feather or your heart. Now treat Arianna with respect!”
“Very nicely said Amir. I honor your beliefs but I do not plan on having your gods test my heart.” Frank smiled and chuckled, very slowly moving his hand down Arianna’s neck allowing his fingers to momentarily slip under the cloth of her blouses collar, and then proceeded to land on her shoulder. He had never taken his eyes off of Tarik. To cap his movement he bent down and nuzzled Arianna’s neck. Still chuckling he shook his head. The Egyptian was furious and only the man’s training was preventing him from doing something Cole would have to hand out punishment to someone else …. In a way the man was gaining Cole’s respect for his control.
Richard could only listen. If Cole touched Arianna he would find some way to pay the man back. It took a full minute before what Tarik had said sunk in. Arianna was taken ….. Tarik thought she was betrothed …. he had been planning to talk to his friend about Arianna in a serious way but had not found the right time …. Now she was out of reach …. His mind was spinning. When it had traveled the circle several times he realized Arianna would have told him during one of their quiet talks if she was spoken for by someone. If Tarik thought she was “taken” then he had to be talking about Richard.
Richard turned his head to the pole and allowed the corners of his mouth to turn up…. Tarik was giving him permission to approach him to talk about his sister …. He knew he could not say anything definite, because Ari would have his skin if he made plans for her without her helping to decide the plans first. But he could get permission from Tarik to formally date her and start bringing of the subject of a future together. Tarik and Ari came from a very old established family and it would be expected for Richard to ask permission first. He had to survive this day first but then he could look to the future.
Richard heard the words which gave him hope come into his mind, “Yes, my friend we will talk when we are finished here. You will not find my terms difficult, I promise you.”
Arianna had caught what her brother had said and she shot daggers at him. How dare he say she was taken …. She had never agreed to be “taken” …. She knew in some ways Tarik did have the right to give his permission but she would decided, when that permission could be given. From Tarik she looked at Richards back and wondered if her brother had figured out how she felt about Richard.
(Cole) Then looking over at the man in Black he said, “I think you two are not the only ones though to have a family reunion happening.” Looking at Franco and then at the man in black, he continued, “If I am guessing correctly from the description Franco has given me of your skill, I would be willing to wager you are his brother Neo. It is a real pleasure to meet someone who has close to the skill I have with knives.” Frank again chuckled.
Cole could tell Tarik and Richard were communicating but he decided not to say anything. It added a little extra spice to the danger of the moment. Maybe Tarik could convince Richard to help get Cole what he needed and they could move onto the other required information of his client. At this rate it was taking much too long to get past just the codebook part of the requests.
Arianna watched with interest as Cole made his way over to Neo’s chair. Neo was one of her best operatives and had gotten himself out of more than one tight spot over the years. She liked to watch him work. It would have been better to have the situation different, but he was not called the Cooler for any other reason than his way to handle situations, first with talk then with action if needed.
Trying to stay relaxed Neo looked into the eyes of Frank Cole. He knew who the man was because of a wanted poster he had seen a few years back. “My brother has a big mouth but yes I am Neo, Frank Cole! I know of you too though I took you for a loner! Guess I was wrong and you are just another Thug who depends too much on muscle?”
“Oh good jab Neo. I am normally a loner, but I am learning to adapt to a very busy world. I have had to turn down jobs, so I am branching out, so to speak. And my friend if I depended only on muscle as you suggest than you and the Amir would be dead. My employer would not like it, but he did tell me I could call my own shots,” There had been more than one time Frank had turned his employers words around so he could do what he wanted, the employers generally did not like it, but as soon as they needed his expertise again, they would forget about his past transgressions and hire him, giving him the same option. It was an option he insisted on when hired.
Richard was feeling better, with Tarik’s help. Most of the feeling had come back to his hands and his back although not healed was not making him cringe. As he turned his head he could not see Neo, but he could see Franco, and by the expression on his friends face he was almost gloating at the words of his brother. Franco wanted to be like his brother, but Richard doubted he would ever have it in him. Franco was a thinker, not a fighter.
Neo’s body and most of his mind had finally accepted he could not fight at the moment and had relaxed allowing him to think. Looking Cole square in the eyes, he said with as much casualness as he could add to the tone of his voice, “We would have died? That's a Laugh! Doubt it as you are the one that lost twelve men, nine by my blades and one took a flying lesson …. and the other two might wake-up in a week depending on The Amir's mood.” To this statement he added a slight chuckle and shake of the head.
Franco smiled as he heard his brother and had to chime in with, “Yea Neo, Didn't the Flyer almost take Mr. Fixer with him?”
“We use the help we are given. The men who are left,” Cole motioned to the men still standing, all of who were paying attention, “are the ones who survived because of their ability. It is a test for them … from those who survive this job I will have my choice on which to take under my tutelage and add to their training and experience. Those chosen will be very well paid and have a permanent job.” Cole looked around and caught the eyes of those who were watching them. “And my friend, they know it. Everything any of you do let’s them show me how they would react and how much they would be willing to take orders.” Looking around again Cole said to the general attendance, “Right guys?” He smile broadened when he heard a boisterous, “Yes sir.”
Smiling at his brother words, Neo realized Frankie was trying to act brave. If Cole could call his own shots, they might all be in trouble. The one thing Neo figured was they had a chance because they needed to be kept alive. Otherwise at a minimum he and Tarik would have been dead as soon as they entered the room. “So if you can call your own shots, Cole, why don’t you cut me loose and we will decide our fate in a test of combat between you and me.” Neo was pretty sure he could win in a hand to hand combat situation especially if he was allowed to use at least one of his knives. As he watched Cole he realized the ploy was not going to work, but he dared not look away and let Cole win the war of wills. Neo knew he was on the lower end at the moment.
Cole turned and casually sat on the edge of the table so he could see Neo’s eyes. “Neo, my friend, I promise you we are going to fight, but I think I will wait until the fight is on my terms. At the moment you want it too much.” Clapping Neo on the shoulder a couple of times as he stood back up, Cole added, “It will not be long I think before our time will come, be patient.” Cole let out a loud laugh; this day was just full of amusements.
Arianna heard Neo pushing for a one-on-one match. She was not really positive on who would win. It had been a long time since she had doubts about Neo’s abilities. When he was younger and had just started in the Caretaker Group, he had tried to show off, which made it easier for others to read his moves. He would only get madder, because he could not figure out why he had lost. Over the years many of the Group had worked with him along with his brothers and had taught him when you get mad you lose the edge. Neo had picked up on that idea with vengeance, thus earning his nick name.
She shot a look at Richard, because if anyone was going to suffer for his rashness it would be Rich. Trying not to look at Tarik, so she would not make the connection if Cole was watching, she attempted to feel what her brother was doing.
Richards’s thoughts were brought back to the talk at the table. Neo was staying true to form. A fight between these two men, Neo and Cole, would have an uncertain outcome, because both of them were equally matched in fighting style possibilities. Realizing if Neo was going to push like he normally would, he was going to be in pain again very soon, Richard again tried to concentrate on finding his “center” as Darik called it.
Silently in his mind, Richard made sure Tarik was still there. “Neo is pushing hard. If it gets too bad my friend I will understand if you let lose. Richard knew Tarik would get a big bolt of the pain if he was cut again. He was worried about his friend.
Tarik’s allowed his mouth to barely turn up at the corners. Neo was keeping Cole busy. He thought in Richards direction “Worry not my brother as I am like the sphinx.” Tarik was not going anywhere no matter how bad it got.
Just as Cole was about to turn to go back to behind Arianna, he caught a slight turn up of the corners of Tarik’s mouth. Slightly shaking his head he thought, “The man never gives up, so who are you talking to now Tarik, my man. …. Your sister? ….” He looked over at where Arianna was sitting but nothing in her expression had changed …. “Maybe Richard again. …. “ This thought made him smile which he maintained the short walk to behind Arianna.
As he reached Arianna he remembered he had not taken care of another piece of business. It would make a good lesson for the newest members of their group.
Looking again down at Arianna, he said, “But Princess before we can continue our talk, there is one little matter I need to attend to, you will excuse me of course. I promise I will return quickly.” Frank bent down and forced a kiss on Arianna’s lips even though she tried to keep his mouth from making contact. Her movements only made him laugh louder. It would be a great challenge to get her to come to him willingly and beg for kisses, but he would love to try. [/quote]
Richard swallowed hard, apparently Cole was on the move again and that meant pain for him.
With that on his mind he walked over to stand behind Franco. “Franco, just before these two gentlemen showed up, I discovered a knife up your sleeve that you were remise in telling me about. That was a mistake as I told you before. This means you must be punished, so …..” Frank walked over to where Greene was hanging on the pole and said to him. “Sorry Professor but Franco has been bad again.”
Richard tried to relax. If he knew how he would have blocked Tarik’s mind because he knew the pain was going to be prolonged. He heard Ari’s trembling voice, say, “No, please, no.” but it did no good.
Frank motioned to the nearest man and put up three fingers. The man took out his wand and cut three more stripes into Richards back. Richard groaned and was barely able to remain conscious.
Cole had given Richard advance notice of the pain. The man was not a complete beast. He had to stick to his word, or no one would take him seriously, not the men taking orders from him in the room or the people sitting at the table. He had no choice but to do what he said he was going to do. This did not mean Richard would be treated worse, but it also did not mean Cole would miss an opportunity to drive home the idea he was in charge and planned on getting the information he was hired to get.
Richard felt the searing pain as the three stripes were added to his back. The pain caused him to throw his head back and a load moan escaped his best efforts to hold it in. He saw the world around him go out of focus and darken, but gradually come back into focus. He was breathing hard and had to straighten out his legs to relieve the pressure on his hands. “that was close he thought as he tried to get his breathing under control.
Richard had tried to prepare himself as best he could. The stripes this time had been dug much deeper. Apparently the goons were starting to really enjoy their job. He tried to breathe through the pain. Tarik had not left him, but had absorbed at least a partial amount. His mind went to his friend as his head stopped reeling and the heaving of his stomach subsided. “Tarik, you have to break off …. you need all your energy incase the others find a way to get by this mad man.” Putting his head on the pole, to absorb some of the coolness of the wood, he begged in his mind, “Please my friend do not do this to yourself.”
Tarik took no time to think, he just said through his thoughts, “Neo is handling Franco; my sister at the moment is in no danger … you my brother is in need of my skills…. I will know if the others need me. You my brother give them strength … so I will focus on you and the others will benefit. A silent battle is still a battle.”
Richard nodded not taking his forehead off the cool pole. “Thank you Amir…. I will not forget this. If it comes to me or your sister you must help her, promise me Amir.” Richard received no answer, just the feeling of a bit more coolness to his back.
Frank walked back to Franco and said, “now we have taken care of the punishment for that …. Please do not make me punish YOU again.”
Cole started to walk away when he stopped and turned back to Franco, “I take it Greene is your friend …. But for how long Franco if you keep forcing me to punish him for what you do. You are the one that can give me no reason to cut into his back …. You are the reason for his pain.” Cole was playing on the hunch, Franco could not take the knowledge he was responsible for purposely causing someone else’s pain. It was an idea worth hammering home. Adding insult to injury, he patted Franco on the back and added, “Just think about it…”
Neo watched Franco slowly start to sink ever deeper into the bog of self-incrimination about what he thought he had caused, as Cole's words sunk in. Shaking his head as he said trying to get Cole to stop focusing on his brother. “Cole, just leave him alone! You will not break him because we all understand what is at stake if Khalid gets his hands on that book or the writer. So just cut your losses and leave him alone!”
(Franco) He wanted so bad to just give Cole the name of the writer. Thinking back to that day so long ago, Franco had no intention of Richard dying like that puppy did. He opened his mouth to give the name only to hear Neo talk directly to him.
Turning to Franco, Neo said clinching and unclenching his fists at his side , “Frankie, we all signed up with our eyes wide open! Don't you let him put his doing on you! You are no more to blame for what he is having Richard go through, than you were for what those boys did to that pup! Those boys just wanted you to fight, just as Cole wants you to give up that name...Neither think about the aftermath...you do, Frankie! You always weigh the pros and cons...and you Know that it is Not Worth Giving Up that Name! Richard Knows it Too!”
After Neo talked, Franco shook his head sadly as he said, “Nice try Cole but Neo's right! One man is not worth what would happen if that book Ever got in the wrong hands...and Khalid's hands are most certainly the Wrong Hands!”
Cole looked at Franco with fire in his eyes, the man did not get the fact he was a mercenary not one of the lackeys of who he worked for, he was his own boss. "Unfortunately Franco, my boy, it is not up to you to decide that fact. My job is to get the information, not decide what the information will be used for. I try to stay out of all the intrigue mixed in with what I am getting paid to do."
Frank made his way to Arianna, walking around the side of the table where Neo and Tarik had been bound. Stopping at Tarik first he said, “Amir, you are not going to give me any problems are you, because Greene is taking everyone’s punishment today. If it comes to the point I have to punish him, your sister will accept the punishment, and I have a really interesting idea on how to meter out that punishment.” Frank laughed at the look on Tarik’s face.
Arianna cringed as she heard Cole’s threats. Her eyes darted between her brother and Richards newly marked back. As Caretakers, they had been but through more than one pain management exercise, which she herself had invented and gone through with the rest of them. She had gotten a lot farther than some of the others, before she had fainted. It was not something she was looking forward to. If she was reading Cole right, it would not be knives used on her. He could use much more degrading methods, which would not necessarily cause visible scars.
Richard tried to weakly fight his restraints. “You stay away from her Cole or when I get down from here I will personally give punishment you will not forget.” Richard knew he could not carry out his words and would most likely never be allowed to carry them out, but it was frustration that was doing the talking. He tried unsuccessfully to strain to look over his shoulder to find where Cole was standing.
Cole slowly walked back over to stand behind Arianna. The woman was like a magnet. It seemed every time he stopped mentally controlling where he was standing he ended up walking back to her. Maybe when they were done here he could talk with Khalid, the dark wizard who was her half-brother and his employer, to get permission to hold Ari for a while. If he picked a quiet place he knew he could eventually get her to want to be with him. It was a pleasing thought.
“Tish …. Tish …. Richard, you just worry about yourself, I will worry about the Princess. As long as you are a good whipping boy and her brother is good, she does not have much to worry about at the moment.”
Richard groaned and said “As long as you believe me, Frank, that is all that counts. I hope you can run.”
Tarik barely had his emotions under control. …. He felt like a first year student in one of the classes when you were young … trying to control his emotions. “You have a weakness Mr. Cole and that is going to cost you greatly, possibly your hands maybe your head? I will not warn a third time!”
Frank smiled as he said to Tarik, “I probably have many weaknesses, Amir. I will admit to a weakness for nice clothes, good times in faraway places and beautiful women.” Frank caressed Arianna’s face, kissed her forehead and smiled.
Cole had one growing weakness and she was sitting in the chair in front of him. It wasn’t a weakness anyone could use yet, because he knew he would not have a problem doing what he had too concerning her, but it had reached the point where he would regret it for a long time.
At the moment he needed to get away from her for a few moments. Sizing up Neo’s mussel power and possible strength was a good way.
Richard groaned to himself this time. Some day he would make this up to Arianna, if she let him. .. he would force her somehow to let him …. At the moment all he could do was try and accept what coolness he could from the wood in the pole, because it felt like his head was on fire. He knew Tarik was trying and succeeding for the most part but a body can only take so much and his was fighting to maintain a semblance of working order. “Concentrate, Richard, Concentrate….” he kept repeating to himself.
He walked over to Neo and standing behind him, put both his hands on the man’s shoulders. He wanted to get an idea of the strength in them, and he was definitely not disappointed. “Neo, my man, your brother thinks very highly of you, although I do think he would have liked it if you had not put yourself in harm’s way. I think ….” at his point one of the men came up to Frank and whispered in his ear. “Really?” Frank said to the man, “Ok, hold on a moment.” Patting Neo on the shoulders he said, “Excuse me for one moment.”
If the man had not just told him there was an elf hanging around out back of the position of the Hog’s Head, Cole would have been a lot more upset at being interrupted. He knew there was one elf which was always around the village …. The elf worked at Sara Puddifoot’s tea shop and from what Cole had been able to find out, he was also a trusted member at Hogwarts. It was interesting he was putting his little nose in where he should have known it was not wanted. …. It had been many years since Cole had any interaction with any of the Elfin Clans. He had been in charge of an expedition to capture some of them for the slave trade. The job had paid well but he found he did not enjoy the work, so he had turned down two other similar jobs.
Neo took a deep breath and looked around for any opportunities to get away. He knew Arianna had wandless magic and figured her brother Tarik could do the same. If they used it some of them might make it out, especially if he could get to his knives laid out on the bar. His brother was staring at him, but as soon as he looked his way, Franco looked down. “It’s ok, Franco, but when we get out of here, you and I are going to have a very long and involved talk…”
Franco nodded as he said, “I figure as much, though I wonder who will be at the head of that line Arianna or Marco?”
Frank allowed a half smile to raise the corners of his mouth. Even in the condition they were presently in the two brothers were trying to give each other courage. He had wondered once what it would be like to have a brother or a sister, but discounted the notion as bad immediately. If he had relatives he would have to protect them, and in his line of work he had too many enemies to worry about others. He would not have been able to think “out of the box” if he had others he was responsible for. …. It was interesting though, Franco was worrying about getting a tounge lashing from Arianna or Marco equally. Seemed there was more to the woman at the table and Franco’s brothers were becoming some of the top people on his list he would like to “talk” too.
Frank walked over to the bar and pulled out a piece of parchment from behind it along with a quill and ink. He scribbled a message on it handed it to the man who had interrupted him and said, “Wrap this around something heavy and throw it out the back window. Be careful you don’t get yourself killed.” Frank watched as the man nodded and headed for the upstairs. Shaking his head he walked back to Neo.
Note:
Elf,
Please leave immediately. Your friends are in my power.
At the moment they are alive and will stay that way as long
as no one else tries to enter this building. I am not planning on
killing them at the moment. Give us until morning and if they are
lucky and have given me the information I require they will all come
out alive. Leave now or at least one of my choosing will die.
Believe me in this, I do not lie.
Fixer
As he was walking back to the table, Cole looked around the room. He now had elves trying to get in on the job, and he was starting to feel out numbered. Before Tarik and Neo had arrived he had 15 men he could use to watch the others and relieve their fellow goons; Neo had killed 10 with the use of his knives and the weapons Franco, when he was in the disguise of Cole, had Arianna remove. This made Cole smile because they had probably set that up on purpose so the weapons would be available. He must be getting old or sloppy because he had not cleaned them up in the beginning.
Tarik had knocked out two himself before Cole had dropped him. It was interesting Tarik had not killed, but only knocked the men out with a spell only he could reverse. This had left him with three to help, one of which he had to use upstairs to watch the back of the building and guard the transport cabinet.
Richard had been listening to the exchange between Neo and Franco when Cole walked toward the bar, coming into Richards range of vision. The man wrote a note and gave it to the other man at the bar with him. He motioned up the stairs and sounded like he said “….don’t get yourself killed.” Someone was being given a note out of an upstairs window. Richard wondered if it was Darik. He would have loved to read the note. In his mind he asked Tarik “Tarik, do you think it is Darik outside.” , but before he could receive an answer for Tarik, Cole answered the question for him.
Richard had heard Cole talking to Neo and then stop. When he looked over to the portion of the bar he could see, he saw Cole reading a note. Then he took a piece of paper and wrote a message handed to the man and headed back out of his sight to the table.
Reaching Neo Frank said, “I am sorry about that, it seems an elf has decided to stand outside the back of the building. I have explained to him he needs to leave and what will happen if he does not. I hope he listens. But that is not what I wanted to talk about….” Frank put his hands back on Neo’s shoulders and continued, “You my friend and I will be having a little contest later. First there are some requirements my employer has specified.”
He again found himself heading directly for Arianna, but turned after a couple of steps because he had two ideas, one which Tarik could help with. Carefully he pulled up a chair and sat down on the other side of Tarik, so he could still see Neo and the others. Franco was a little behind him, but he was not worried about him at the moment. Straddling the chair he rested his arms on the back of it and for a moment put his chin on top of his arms. He looked at Tarik, cleared his throat, sat up straight and said with a smile on his face, “Amir, when you decided to visit with us today, you knocked out two men as you were entering the room. … I have need of those two men at the moment, so I would appreciate it if you would wake them up ….”
Tarik smiled not even trying to hide the maddening glint in his eyes, as he thought, "I like the fact you want those two awake because now I will wait even longer before doing so." To Cole he just grinned as he said, "It is nice to want, is it not? I guess neither of us is going to be graced by the gods this day..."
“Somehow I knew you would not agree with me …. So let me rephrase my request. Arianna,” he motioned in Ari’s direction, “would appreciate it if you would revive the men. …” Looking away from Tarik’s face for a moment, Cole smiled at Ari and added, “Wouldn’t you, princess?”
Richard again tried to look around. Cole had just made an unmistakable threat against Arianna. In his mind he said only “Tarik.” trying desperately to not make it sound like he was pleading.
All Arianna could do was try and stay brave and she slowly shook her head no when her brothers eyes met hers.
Tarik fashioned his face so it appeared he was thinking, because he needed to answer Richard first, He thought, “My friend, be calm. Conserve your energy and let me try and read this fool,” To Cole he said out loud with an unusually calm voice, “"I have requested twice that you respect my sister and honor her being spoken for...Have you done so? So why should I by waking your men? As a very wise elf said, What comes around goes around!"
Cole did not move from his position in the chair right away. He continued to study Tarik. After a moment he nodded, got up and slowly replaced his chair to its original spot. He called one of the men over and whispered in his ear. The man nodded, turned and headed up the stairs. Khalid was going to have to make good on his promises and send some more help. He figured it would not take too long because the message was being sent via the cabinet.
The man, who had originally held a knife to Franco’s throat, still had the knife in his hand. Cole looked him in the eyes, pointed to the knife, then to Franco and then to Richard. The man nodded. Cole knew he had at least one candidate for his new trainees, the man knew how to read signs. He did not worry about the others, because he knew behind his back the man had the knife pointed at Franco’s neck and his wand pointed at Richard’s back. Franco would be the first to suffer. Cole had told him not to kill but if he wanted to inflict pain, it would be alright with him.
Frank walked back to Arianna and said, “Miss me princess, I told you I would return.” Frank put his hands on the side of Arianna’s arms and rubbed them, looking at Neo and Tarik in turn. They wanted to kill him slowly. He chuckled.
Tarik smiled as he realized that he had read the man right. Frank Cole had fallen hard for Arianna. That knowledge could help them as well as could cause problems. Looking straight in Fixer's eyes, he said with a glint in his eyes, "So the man's heart is revealed? Her heart is spoken for...As you know our ways Frank, you understand that you will not change what destiny has already written..."
Cole fastened his eyes on Tarik. “You know nothing about my heart, Tarik. And Amir, destiny can be a very interesting thing. I also believe there are several roads leading to this destiny. Which one shall we follow?” Not taking his hands from Arianna’s arms, or his eyes from Tarik, he said very close to Arianna’s ear, loud enough for all to hear, “Princess your brother is refusing to carry out a very simple request from me. What do you think I should do to persuade him? Maybe I should try something like this…” at which point Cole moved his hands quickly up to Arianna’s face and turned to toward him, forcing a hard kiss on to her lips. He knew he was probably going to leave a bruise.
Arianna struggled and tried to say no but the way Cole was holding her jaw, she could not even open her mouth. When he kissed her, it hurt and a moan came up her throat. She fought to try and get loose but he had an iron grip on the side of her head, using his thumbs to hold her mouth shut.
Cole did not move his head very far, only enough to be able to give a side glance to Tarik. The man was good, he had not moved, only continued to stare. “What nothing yet …. Let’s see then maybe I should do this…. “Cole gave Arianna another very hard kiss, bent her head backwards and proceeded to kiss her neck lower and lower toward her shirt collar. As he reached the collar, he turned her head and softly bit her neck. Pulling her head back up straight, he planted another kiss on her lips and again looked at Tarik, with a questioning look in his eyes.
Tarik tried to sit back in his chair and look as relaxed as he could as he said calmly, "Again you show little respect for my sister. Yet you have requested that I show you Mr. Cole by honoring your request to wake two of your men? As you know our ways and our beliefs, you already know the only answer I can give."
Tarik thought concerned what Fixer was having the other man that had went upstairs do. He had just gotten his twins back after believing them dead. Family was everything to the Magi. He was starting to understand who this man's client was and Tarik put nothing pass that older half-brother. Tarik thought, "At least Sasha and the twins are safely at Hogwarts and this man knows nothing about them or my oath to the Princess. His men are lucky I had not killed them though the Bewitched Sleep is almost as bad." The Magi smiled as he remembered that many believed that wizards placed under the Bewitched Sleep were dead and so had buried them.
Standing up straight and walking to behind Arianna, Cole stared at Tarik for a few moments, thinking “The man is smart but there had to be a way to break the shell.” Cole could not understand how he had shown disrespect; he had not spit on the floor; he had not used foul language; he had addressed her using her title; he had not taken any of her clothes off not even a button had been undone. Sure she was acting as if she did not enjoy it, but his mother had told him, when women said no, they usually meant yes; and the harder they said no the more they wanted the attention. There had been others, both men and women over time who had told him this was wrong, when a woman said no, she meant no, but Cole’s mother had never lied to him. It was very confusing. Maybe Tarik was one of those who believed the opposite of what his mother had told him. If so then Cole was not just making Tarik mad he was also making them dig their heels in more to not cooperate with him. It may be interesting to see if the reverse tactics worked.
It took a lot for Cole to move, because he felt good being near Arianna, but he took his hands off of her shoulders, walked over to stand by where Greene was on the pole, bowed slightly to her and looked at Tarik. Absently playing with the hilt of his Bouie knife he said, “I think we might be able to come to terms, Amir,” Cole added a slight bow in Tarik’s direction. “Perhaps if …. “ Cole stopped when he saw several men coming down the stairs. His smile broadened as he realized more men had been sent to augment his small force.
One of the men walked up to him and handed him a note, while the others stood back a ways but close. All of them were looking around and a few had even waved to someone they knew. Cole accepted the note and said to the group in general, “You are all welcome. Help yourself to refreshment and you have my permission to greet any of the others you know. Some of them are on duty at the moment though. When I have had a chance to read my note, I will assign all of you your duties.” Cole surveyed the room; there were now sixteen (16) men in the room; with the one upstairs that made 17. Not a bad start.
Cole bowed to Arianna and said to the occupants at the table. “You all will excuse me again I hope.” He did not wait for an answer before he walked over to a table behind the pole Richard was tied too and sat down. Smiling up at Richard he unrolled the parchment scroll a picture fell out, which landed on the table. Cole examined the picture and then read the note
Note:
Fixer:
This note is being delivered by the men you asked for through your messenger. I understand you may have use of a doctor, so one is being found for you and will be delivered as soon as it can be arranged. Although your messenger could not answer any of my questions about your progress, I still have faith in you methods. To show you my faith, I have tripled the money in your special bank account, and am agreeing for you to keep any 15 men of your choosing. The original rules still apply. I will pay each of the men for their first year of service with you. I have also explained to this group as to the last, that if any of them are chosen they will also receive a sizeable bonus.
I hope my sister is well and hope she is keeping you entertained. If you have decided to try and train her to your way of thinking, I wish you luck. She can be very stubborn. I also hope you are not having too much trouble with my brother. I have enclosed a picture taken yesterday by one of my helpers at the school. The very pretty lady is Tarik’s wife and the two children are his twins. They are in the middle of the Hedge Maze which borders the gardens on Hogwarts grounds. When I say family means a lot to Tarik, I am not over exaggerating. Use the picture to your best advantage.
If you are unable to send a man, place a message in the small box in the cabinet and I will get it. A man is on duty 24 hours a day and they have instructions to wake me if anything comes through from you.
Hope you are enjoying your assignment,
Khalid
Fixer:
This note is being delivered by the men you asked for through your messenger. I understand you may have use of a doctor, so one is being found for you and will be delivered as soon as it can be arranged. Although your messenger could not answer any of my questions about your progress, I still have faith in you methods. To show you my faith, I have tripled the money in your special bank account, and am agreeing for you to keep any 15 men of your choosing. The original rules still apply. I will pay each of the men for their first year of service with you. I have also explained to this group as to the last, that if any of them are chosen they will also receive a sizeable bonus.
I hope my sister is well and hope she is keeping you entertained. If you have decided to try and train her to your way of thinking, I wish you luck. She can be very stubborn. I also hope you are not having too much trouble with my brother. I have enclosed a picture taken yesterday by one of my helpers at the school. The very pretty lady is Tarik’s wife and the two children are his twins. They are in the middle of the Hedge Maze which borders the gardens on Hogwarts grounds. When I say family means a lot to Tarik, I am not over exaggerating. Use the picture to your best advantage.
If you are unable to send a man, place a message in the small box in the cabinet and I will get it. A man is on duty 24 hours a day and they have instructions to wake me if anything comes through from you.
Hope you are enjoying your assignment,
Khalid
Cole put the parchment down on the table for a moment and picked up the picture, being careful Greene could not see it. The woman in the picture had great beauty, but the opposite of Arianna’s. Where the princess was dark and mysterious, the woman in the picture was light and had a sparkle about her. The children were laughing and having a great time. Cole watched the people in the picture, remembering the picnics he and his parents had gone on and the games they had played afterwards. The games had been rough and he had not gotten hurt very often, but his mother always bandaged the wounds. And his father always looked very pleased and told him how happy he was that Frank did not cry and took the hurt like a man. Nodding to himself he picked up the parchment and put it in his pocket and with the picture in his hand he walked back to the table, reminding himself not to stand behind the Princess, he sketched a bow to Arianna. He stood about a foot away from her off to her right. Antonio was seated off to his right and Richard was on the pole behind and off to the right of him.
Cole turned his eyes to Tarik and smiled then turned to the Princess and holding the picture so only she could see it, he asked, “Princess, would you know who these people are by any chance?” He only continued to smile as a look of horror took over Arianna’s face. Laughing he said, “I thought so, excuse me please Princess.”
Bowing again Cole thought, “Someday this woman was going to repay him bow for bow.” Cole walked around the back of Arianna, mentally stopping his hand as it had been drawn to her back like a magnet; and then behind Neo, who he grabbed by the shoulder and squeezed as hard as he could, ending up behind Tarik. He had been very careful to hide the picture behind his back as he waked around the table. When he was behind Tarik, he leaned down and rested his elbow and lower arm on the back of Tarik’s chair. Putting a brilliant smile on his face, he said, “Amir, in the note I just received a present was sent for you. It seems Shadow (Cole was not going to mention Khalid’s name) thinks you may be lonely. So he sent you this….” Cole tossed the picture on the table and waited for Tarik’s reaction.
At first Tarik only stared at the picture. He only saw the laughing faces. After a moment he started to look at what was going on and where they were. Tarik and Sasha had talked and agreed the school was the best place to be for now. Tarik could see she had not left the school, but who had taken the picture. From the way Sasha and the twins, Michaki and Silvia, were acting they had not noticed the picture was being taken. Tarik’s heart lurched and his mouth went dry as the one main thought hit his mind hard. Cole had found out about Sasha and the children; they were not safe because someone Khalid knew (Tarik was positive it was not Shadow who had sent the message, because the man could not afford all of the help Cole was getting) where and how to get to Sasha and the children.
Tarik took a calming breath, which despite how hard he tried to keep it level, had a small hitch to it, as he said, “Your point of showing me the picture, Cole?”
Cole had decided not to ask Tarik to revive his men. He wanted to save the picture for another possible request. It had worked well though. Standing up straight, he put a hand on each of Tarik’s shoulders and dug his nails into the man’s shoulders. “Nothing really at the moment Amir,” Cole released his grip but did not move his hands. “I thought I might give you a chance on thinking what it would be like to have them join us. I know several adult games which Arianna, Sasha and I can play. I might even let you and Richard join us. I also know several games the children may enjoy. They are a little rough, but both of the children look healthy and strong. I played the games with my parents and did not get hurt much, once I learned the rules. I am sure they would do fine.”
Franco watched Tarik as Cole answered the Amir. The Saint had to get Cole's focus off the Medjai because he had found the man's weak spot.
Getting a smile on his face as he said, “But now if you were to show the Amira that you had values and beliefs other than money...then just maybe we could come to an understanding concerning the codebook?”
Cole slowly looked over to Ari and saw her head slowly shake yes. He had not missed the quick questing glance at Franco. "I will keep that in mind, Franco. I have all the respect in the world for the Amira. You have noticed I have not removed any of her clothes in front of you all ... I have said nothing mean to her and I have not put a mark on that beautiful flawless warm inviting skin of hers. My values center around giving my client the best value I can for what he pays. My beliefs may not be the same as yours, but I do have them. You do not count.... I will tell Arianna my beliefs as we get to know each other better."
Franco turned his head slightly as he said with fury, “Cole that is low even for you! Tarik has nothing to do with this! You Keep Away from Them! You think we are tight-lipped now...Just involve his family and watch any chance of getting anything Ever go Right Out The Window! Plus I know one young lady would Never Forgive You!”
"Franco, you do not get it, do you." Cole was getting tired of explaining to the man about how all this information gathering was done. "Everything and everyone, I can use to get the information I need, I will use. Tarik, may not have been involved originally, but he chose to add himself to our little group... this made it possible to use anything which will get him talking, even if it is just to try and convince the rest of you to give up the information I need. I like the way his lady looks and the children would not be harmed more than I was when I played the games with my parents. The world is tough and they need to learn that ...."
Just as Franco was about to make a deal with Fixer, the man closest to him, Doubled up his fist and hit Franco as he said, “Shut Up Reporter! Cause As soon as Fixer gets what the Dark Medjai wants from you...You Are A Dead Man as Are Your Friends!” His left hand itched from the mark Zia had made in it. Smiling as he went to hit the Reporter again, knowing that his true Master was hearing every word. His job was to insure that Khalid's family never trusted the Dark Medjai and that Fixer failed.
Cole spun toward the man, "You were not ordered to do that .... hit him again without a direct order from me and you will regret it.... I may even give you a choice of returning to your employer or dying here on the spot. I have an arrangement with your first employer that I can do with you what I want while you are here... so back off now." The man was a hot head and Cole had just crossed him off his list of possible recruits.
Cole patted Tarik on the back and headed back to his warm spot near Arianna. Observing the men in the room, he decided what had to be done. “May I have everyone’s attention please …. Good now we are all going to work as a team. It has been explained to you what your possible future could be. If at any time you would like to opt out, let me know. I will hold nothing against you and you will be allowed to return to your original employer, understood?” Cole nodded as he received a general “yea” from the group. “Let’s see if we can get everyone assigned.” Cole looked at the man holding the very large muscular man standing closest to him. “You my good man are in charge of Professor Greene here; would you have a problem giving disciplinary action if required?” Cole received a crisp, “No sir” which he answered with a nod and the word “Good”.
Motioning to the two others who were already standing generally behind Tarik, but back a ways, he added, “You two are in charge of the Amir. I know he is packaged but he can be tricky, although maybe not as tricky as before because of,…” Cole held up the picture for a moment then put it in his pocket.
Tarik inwardly cringed.
A smile slowly spread across Cole's face as he saw the reaction of the Amir. He had hit home with his threat. "Good" he thought to himself, "It was still going to be interesting on how far he could push the wizard but he always had a way of stopping him if need be."
Looking over at the bar, he saw two men playing a game of mumbly-pegs on the surface of the bar with a couple of pocketknives, “You two, go over and stand behind Neo there. He has a great love of knives also. …. Oh and do me a favor …. Please pat the gentleman down for hidden knives …. Check the full lengths of his arms and legs …. Also check his back, boots and for all I can behind his ears…. If he pulls a knife, you two are dead, understand?” Cole again received two crisp “Yes Sir’s” and watched as a worried look passed between the men.
Neo smiled as he hoped that neither man removed his jacket with its hidden pockets. Still smiling, he said, “What Cole, don't trust me?”
"Oh, I trust you Neo... I trust you to be sneaky as possible ... The men searching you know, they will die if you use any weapons they may miss." Cole looked at the men to make sure they understood. They renewed their search with more vigor. They realized he meant to search the man everywhere.
While he was watching them do a very thorough search of Neo, Cole motioned three more of the men to come closer to the table. “You three are in charge of watching Franco and helping Antonio if he needs it, but there must always be at least two of you paying attention to Franco.” Cole nodded to Antonio. “Antonio is not under restraints at the moment, so he does not have to be watched.”
Antonio smiled as he watched the men search Neo. He told nobody about Neo's jacket as Cole had asked that he not interfere and in this case, it enabled him to keep Neo's secret. The man's jacket had several spots inside the outer part of the jacket that carried his weapons, including a pair of numb-chucks. Antonio smiled as he thought of the damage Neo could do if he brought all of his weapons.
The two men had just finished their search of Neo and had found three more knives and 2 Chinese Throwing Stars. Cole grinned and told one of them to put the knives and stars behind the bar and then return to his position. He shook his head showing disappointment in Neo.
Antonio smiled as he realized that Neo was smiling about how little they had found. His friend was getting really good at concealing his weapons.
Antonio got up and after patting Neo on his shoulder and then sliding his hand across, walked over to the bar and poured himself a Southern Comfort. As he went to drink the contents, he slides the numb-chucks into his pocket.
Grandfather had swore that Franco was just going to be talked to and maybe held for a while. Grandfather had said nothing about killing Franco or any of the others. Cole had never lied to him but Antonio knew of at least four that wore the Dark Mark. Antonio shook his head as he debated about just what he could do to save his friends and still protect Tia.
It surprised Cole a little when Antonio got up, walked around the table and patted Neo on the shoulder. He did not miss the sleight of hand when Antonio's hand momentarily disappeared under Neo coat lapel. Antonio had either just removed something or he had added something to Neo's coat. This was going to be interesting.
Cole watched out of the corner of his eye, as Antonio poured himself a glass of Southern Comfort. It was a drink the Chameleon did not like, so he was being careful. He also noticed him put his hand close to the pocket of his slacks as if to adjust the waistband. Cole thought to himself, "Antonio, what are you trying .... I do hope it is nothing I will have to punish the others for..." but in his heart he knew Antonio was going to have to be given a lesson in responsibility.
Then Cole sent two of the men to the front door, one to stand in the doorway of the bartenders vacated room so he could watch the window, Tarik and Neo had used and also the hallway, and one to stand just inside of the storeroom door to be able to watch the sealed back door. All windows were blacked out and windows and doors were magically sealed.
Antonio followed the man that went into the storeroom. As soon as the man was out of sight, Antonio used the numb-chucks with the skill that only Neo and Cole ever saw him use. The man was dead in a matter of seconds. Antonio said softly, “One down, Three to Go!”
Then he put the “Chucks” back in his pocket and went to stand by the bar.
Cole leaned on the back of Tarik's chair. With bowed head he said, "Be right back Amir... I think I have a problem." Cole walked over to the storeroom door and looked in. The man he had sent in there as a guard lay on the floor battered but not bleeding... he was dead. Reached up his hands and grabbed the top frame of the door and took a sidelong glance at Antonio.
After getting his thoughts in order to walked over to Antonio and held out his hand, only saying, "Give them up ... now. ......" When he had the numb-chucks in his hand, he said, "Go sit down Antonio .... I do not know why you did this and maybe I will let you explain later.... but you just made a big mistake I cannot overlook."
Cole followed Antonio back to the table, waving to one of the other men to go to the back room. If these men did not trust him to protect them, they would never become the tight knit group he hoped to form. Continuing working the numb-chucks in his hand. They were expertly made. Neo spent a lot of money on his equipment. He watched Antonio sit back down and stopped behind Neo's chair. "These belong to you I suppose...."
He continued to work the numb-chucks in his hands and did not wait for an answer before adding, "Antonio, has just decided to use them on one of my men... which is something which cannot go unpunished so..." Cole looked at Antonio and said point blankly, "Chose Antonio.... Who will accept your punishment?" Cole waited continuing to play with the deadly weapon in his hand, letting them flicker Neo's ear a few times.
Antonio sat back in his chair and picked up the glass of Southern Comfort he had brought with him, smiling he said confidently. "Since those babies are mine...A set I believe you made for me? And The man I killed had a Dark Mark instead of this..." Showing his Seven Mark before continuing with, "Me! Cole, either you or Grandfather lied to me or..." pointing to the man that hit Franco as he said, "He lied to Franco! Chose Cole, because I don't hand my friends over to the Number...Not even to help Marco toughen a brother up!"
Cole had made the set of numb-chucks for Antonio... a gift for having put him through what he did at the Hog's Head on their previous meeting when he had made Chameleon retreat and had allowed Antonio to come out .... however, the man had also been searched earlier... so he could only have gotten them from Neo's jacket.
He looked around the room. The other men were waiting to see what he would do because one of their numbers had just been killed, and it appeared Cole had lost control of the situation. Walking over to stand behind Antonio, he whispered in the man's ear. "I am still going to have to punish someone because of what you did ... before that happens though ... I want you to take your wand and kill anyone else you know carries the Dark mark. Do it now... then we will discuss what the man said...." Cole waited to see how many men he was going to lose.
Antonio smiled and nodded with pure satisfaction in his eyes. Pulling his wand, Antonio killed one of the men standing behind Tarik and one of the two men standing by Richard. He motioned the man that had hit Franco and said, "I leave you for Cole, Travis! Because I have a feeling, he wants answers as much as I do! You are the first to ever make me doubt my grandfather or Cole's word...And That was only because Cole did not Kill You on The Spot After You Said What You Did To Franco!" With that, he did a binding spell and then handed Cole his wand saying, "Cole, I still chose Me!"
As the two men dropped to the floor in rapid succession. Cole was surprised when the man Antonio called Travis was suddenly bound and had gone down to his knees, staring straight ahead. He turned to two of the other men standing by the bar and said, "Take this man and tie him over there to the wall, facing out. I will deal with him in a moment."
As his orders were followed, Cole looked back at Antonio. "I have no orders to kill anyone at this table or Greene there." He indicated Richard on the pole. "If anyone dies it will be their fault because of something stupid they did ... I have permission to use any and all force I need though to get the information requested. .... I will admit this has become more difficult than I originally envisioned, but I will get my information."
"Now since you have chosen yourself, please stand up and walk out into the center of the room."
Antonio stood up very slowly and took another large swallow of his Southern Comfort. Looking around the table, he saw a mixture of disbelief and non-verbal support. These were his friends and even though he could not do much for them, he could do this.
He walked out to a clear spot in the room and felt his arms get plastered to his sides. He tried to spread his feet and take a firm stance where he stood, his stomach was churning and he was scared, but he was not going to show it. Cole would not kill him he knew, but the man was angry he had taken the situation into his own hands and made Cole look foolish.
Cole put a binding spell on Antonio, "Sorry about the binding, but you are not the type to take chastisement easily." Then he motioned for three of the men to surround Antonio, saying. "You men have thirty seconds to beat on Antonio here. ... you are not allowed to use your feet or magic .... only your hands. Start."
Antonio watched as the three men took up their positions, each with a look of discuss and determination to prove themselves to Cole on their faces. After the fourth hit, time stood still for Antonio. He felt the other hits but his body had gone semi-numb.
Cole watched as the punishment was metered out, motioning to the men to return Antonio to his seat and then released the bindings.
When they were done, he felt himself being dragged back to his seat and placed in the chair. Then he felt his arms go limp. Picking them up slowly he put them on the table, taking mental stock of his body.... nothing seemed to be broken, but the bruising would be many shades of black/and purple for a long time.
(Cole)"Do not make me do that again Antonio, or I will personally choose who will get the punishment. .... drink your Southern Comfort and be good."
Antonio only had the strength to nod and pick up his glass. At least he had gotten rid of the four men not listening to his grandfather.
Cole walked over behind Neo, put the man's own knife to the back of his head and said, "Stand up Neo, now." signaling to the men behind Neo he said, "I am going to release the man bonds, when I do you will remove his coat and his shirt, ready." Cole released the magic bond on Neo and the other two men roughly removed Neo's coat and shirt, creating tears in most of it. As the coat came off in tatters, two knives, two more Chinese Throwing Stars and a pair of street fighting brass knuckles dropped to the floor. As the shirt was removed, two small knives and a filled hypodermic needle were revealed.
Cole was furious. He quickly replaced the magic bonds on Neo and slammed him back down in the chair. Grabbing the man's hair he slammed his head into the table three times, then forced it back. Looking down at him he said, "If you have any other weapons on you, you will tell me now.... because if I find any later..... Arianna will suffer... I hope I am making myself very clear. I will also have you stripped and hung up on the pole beside Richard there."
Neo smiled and said, "Two pin-knives in my right boot, a stun grenade in the heel of my left boot and a choking wire in my belt. At the moment that is all I can remember" As the items were removed from their locations he added with a smirk,"Your guys need to learn to search better, I think?"
Cole had known Neo was hiding more but was reluctant to strip him totally in front of Arianna. He did have some morals and the woman did not need to see the man exposed like that. He had also learned his lesson from Arianna; he was not about to leave any of the weapons where they could be used in the future. Walking over to the bar, he reached behind it and brought out a metal box. He walked back and put it on the table beside the pile of weapons Neo had relinquished. Magically he floated each item into the box, sealed it, shrunk it to the size of a pillbox and put it in his pocket.
Slapping Neo on the face with his opened hand, and knowing he created a stinging, he said, "I am so glad we have come to an agreement. Arianna, I know, hopes you have given me everything." Adding a chuckle, he said, "Now sit there my friend and be good. I have promised you, your time will come to test me."
Neo did not even cringe at the sting to his cheek. as he said, "I only gave them up because of what both you and Antonio admitted to concerning my brother."
Whispering for only Cole to hear, "If Marco knows about what is happening and trusts you then you have somewhat have earned mine...As Marco is even more protective of Frankie than I am! Hence the removal of my play toys. As for the rest, have fun earning each and every item!"
All Cole could say was, "Marco knows about what I will and will not do .... but Neo I cannot protect your brother always... there will be a time he will have to fight his own battles ...." Steadily looking into Neo's eyes he said, "Do you think he is ready ..... I hope so.... I know I am going to do everything in my power to help him prepare for the future. I owe Marco a couple of favors and although my methods may not be to his liking.... I am going to pay him back tonight."
After Cole answered he said, "I guess I should have allowed Marco to do this years ago? Cole, it was just that Marco goes to the extremes sometimes and Franco was in not the best health." Neo was not going to reveal Frankie's hole in his heart to anybody. Only the family, Lance and Antonio knew that Franco was born with a weak heart, which was one of the reasons he did not fight as he always spent the next month in St. Mungo's hospital.
Cole looked over to where Franco sat. The man was pale but he had not given into his fright, which was a plus. Cole leaned down and whispered in Neo's ear. "I know about his heart .... I have sent for a doctor because it is going to get rougher around here.... Franco has to be trained or he will not survive his future..... I am not going to ask you to trust me Neo.... but what happens needs to happen."
Neo listened and said honestly, "It was you that Marco meant when he said that he would like to get the friend that helped train him?"
Cole only nodded. He had told Marco there may be things he could not control, but he would try to make sure his brother survived intact. Cole was not sure Marco or anyone else knew though that Franco was going to need the training in the very near future. Shadow was planning something and Khalid may not be able to stop it. Cole might be able to help but he was not sure yet on whether he would be hired to oversee the time Franco was going to spend in Shadow's hands.
Neo smiled as he said giving Cole a hint, "When it comes to family us Spellman's have learned to trust very few with their safety, if you get my meaning? You still have a lot to prove Fixer!"
Cole nodded. Too himself he thought, "Yea, Spellman's do trust few, and I hope your family does not lose that trust in me, but I will do what is necessary. To Neo he whispered very close to the man's ear, "Hope you can deal with the proof, Neo! Now shut up because we need to get on with what we are doing." With that, he stood up straight, again gave a stinging slap to Neo's face and walked away.
Cole was still fuming and he put Neo's knife back in the waist strap next to his own Bouie knife and slowly turned to the two guards of Neo's. Without any warning, he gave one hard street-punch to each of the men as hard as he could. When they had regained their feet he said, "It is good he did not have a chance to use those, because you both would be dead at the moment. Now watch him closely."
There was still one man upstairs, so Cole sent a man up to relief him and told the others they could relax but to be watchful, because they were the relief team at the moment. Everyone was in pace so Cole returned to the problem at hand.
“Let’s see now …. Where was our original group before our new members joined us.” Frank was having too much fun with this. Pulling out the last note he received he read it for what was next to be discovered. ……” Frank read the note again.
Arianna realized they were back to square one. Cole still wanted answers to his questions and they were still going to have to resist giving him those answers.
Richard in his weakened state could have cried when he heard Cole start where they had left off before.
(from note delivered by arriving men from Khalid) “ ….. Because of some circumstances here, I need a copy of the Caretaker Codebook. I also need examples of signatures of Professor Greene, my sister Arianna and Franco Spellman. It has also come to my attention Franco has been keeping files which no one has been able to locate. It would be nice to have them in my possession.
“One of the requests is for copies of signatures of Greene, Arianna and Franco. Since I would have to let you lose to get those we will save that request until last. The next thing on the list is something we have already tried to discover and I am afraid to say Greene has suffered once for already. My employer wants a copy of the Caretaker Codebook …” Frank looked around and saw the stubborn faces in front of him.
Richard knew Arianna would not agree for this man or anyone else not in the Caretaker Group to have a copy of the Codebook. He never kept his copy on him and neither did any of the others. It was readily available on very short notice, but most were hidden using Transfiguration spells to look totally different.
The signatures were a whole different story. If someone had the codebook and their signatures false messages could be sent out, or it could be made to look like the Caretakers ordered any type of attack or action. Richard sighed, because it looked like he was going to be on this pole for a while.
Arianna had already been through the fact they were not going to give Cole a copy of the Codebook, so her mind went to the fact his employer need copies of Richards, Franco’s and her signatures. There could be many reasons to have any combination of these signatures, from forgery on legal documents to forgeries on orders for any of the Caretaker group. The last possibility was the most likely one, because a copy of the group’s codebook was also being requested. Arianna knew hers was the most important, but it had been determined years ago, extra precautions needed to be taken, so on most documents concerning the Caretakers two signatures must me shown. Ari had agreed to this and it was now common practice on anything except personal correspondence and orders were never given in that case.
Richard had one hope. It was not common knowledge two signatures were required in order to send out any order.
Ari would have been willing to wager Shadow was involved, but she did not think he would have had the ability to pay Cole. The man would be expensive, because he held no allegiance to anyone and would have had to be paid in coinage or property. She was trying really hard not to think her brother Khalid was involved, but the thoughts kept gamming their way into the corners of her brain.
There was one, which was different though. Tarik had a questioning look on his face. Leaning down and kissing Arianna on the cheek he said, “You will have to excuse me again Princess. I need to have a talk with your brother. It seems may be he does not know who the Caretakers are….”
Cole had barely been able to keep his hands off Arianna. She was like a magnet pulling him harder and harder to touch her. He had given her the kiss on the cheek before even realizing what he had done. Tarik could not be mad at one small kiss on the cheek. Arianna was Tarik’s sister and they appeared too really like each other. It was a huge mystery how the Princess had kept the knowledge of the Caretakers away from her brother.
Frank walked over to where Tarik was bound in the chair and reached out to one of the other tables and pulled one up beside Tarik, so he could sit in it. “Amir, you seem to have a question about the Caretakers… I gather by the look on your face you may not even know who they are. Let me explain….”
“Antonio is not a member although from what I have heard of the group, if he ever gets Chameleon under control, he may be asked to join. The group is a gathering of people who are experts in their field. They do not answer to anyone but themselves and their leader.” Frank glanced at Arianna. “The can go anywhere they want no questions asked. Now you may wonder with all this power if they are corrupt, and the answer is an unqualified no, because of the hight standards set by their leader.” Again Frank glanced at Arianna. He could tell by her expression, her brother had never been told about the group before. Frank would have thought he would have been one of their main members. “Now from what I have been able to find out, Greene over there is part of the group, Franco is in and so is Neo here. Their leader you are well acquainted with because it is your sister, who by the way formed the group along with her deceased husband,”
Tarik, only stared at Frank then slowly looked at the other members of the group. Arianna nodded. Tarik was wonder how Arianna had kept this from him all these years. Her husband Thomas Andreas had been dead now for 75 years. He had personally never met the man that his father had chosen and his sister had grown to love.
Richard listened as Cole explained about the Caretaker group. He wished he could see Ari’s face because he knew she was not happy. Ari and her half-brother Tarik had always been very close. Part of their relationship was built on truth and trust. Now Tarik was being told his sister had kept a very big secret from him. There would be no way for Richard to know how his friend was going to take the news. Especially now that he knew a good portion of the people around him belonged to the group and even a few times put up road blocks to keep Tarik from carrying out the one think he thought his life was based on, finding his half-brother Khalid and making sure the man was brought to justice, even if he had to meter out the justice himself, which would mean death to his older brother for being a traitor.
Richard could feel Tarik’s questioning through his mind. He tried to explain to his friend, “Amir, your sister has never done anything against you or the family. The group has been formed to help in this crazy world and will eventually help you carry out your dream for Tia. We know you do not want to rule; that is Tia’s future, if she decides to accept it. Before you judge wait and let Arianna talk with you.”
Arianna watched as Cole walked around the table and sat beside Tarik. She had hoped this day would never come. Lately she had started to consider having Tarik, join the Caretaker Group, because he was not on the vigilante hunt for Khalid anymore. The council had told Tarik to hunt his brother down and bring him in alive if possible. Tarik was not a hunter he was a Saygar (teacher) and it had almost torn him apart hunting for his half-brother. Now he was going to find out she had kept a very important bit of information from him. He would realize if he had been able to use the abilities of the group, he probably would have found Khalid along time ago. If he had Arianna knew he would have most likely had to kill Khalid, and Arianna could not let that happen. They had to wait until Tarik realized Khalid did not have to be killed.
Arianna had hoped to be able to explain about the Caretakers to her brother. He was being considered as a possible member, if he could be made to realize joining the group would take away some of his individuality. He would also have to take orders from her, and she did not see that happening very soon. Now he knew about the group which was going to create words between them which she was not looking forward to.
Tarik listened and thought, “Richard, I never thought that she had. Did father know?”Tarik just smiled and nodded.
As Richard listened to Tarik he could feel that his head was hot again, from what he could figure was a fever from the pain in his back. The pole was still cooler than the air, but it was not doing much to alleviate the headache and the fever. He tried to concentrate on what Tarik was asking in his mind, "Your father knew she had started a 'help group' and made a suggestion they could possibly be used to help with the future of the regime .... but I do not think he knew the extent of the direction Arianna had moved the group in .... she had shouldered the burden by herself for a long time... she will not give up any of that burden either, so we all try and help do what she needs as soon as possible, adding little extras where we can... Tarik she needs your support..... however as far as we are all concerned she is in charge and will stay that way..... she does not need your big brother act, my friend. Support her but be careful if you decide to invade the situation..... I repeat she is in charge."
Frank watched Tarik’s face. He was trying not to show emotions but this bit of news was even too much for his abilities to hide what he was feeling. Frank stood up and replaced his chair where it had originally sat. Looking down at Tarik he added, “I need to ask some tough questions now and I am almost positive I am going to have a tough time getting answers. The Princess has promised not to use her wandless magic because she knows the consequences. I need your promise to not use yours or I will have to blindfold you.”
Tarik looked at the man and in as firm a voice as he could, said “I promise to not use wandless magic to free myself or any other. I also can promise not to use my wandless magic against you or your men today! I swear!” He was not about to be blindfolded. His magic may yet come into use; blindfolded he would only be an encumbrance to the others.
Richard thought to Tarik, ”Very well said my friend….. makes me look forward to tomorrow.” . Even talking out loud had not broken Tarik’s connection with Richard.
Not allowing her features give any visual indication on what Tarik had just said, Arianna knew Tarik had promised really very little. If someone got loose he was still free to help in any way he could. Also when the clock clicked to the next day, Tarik would not be breaking his promise if he did anything with his magic.
Frank walked over to where Richard was still strung up on the pole. “Greene, you do understand I need to complete my job. I have nothing personal against you or anyone else here, but it is a job and I have already received a good portion of the payment. I am going to go ask the group for a copy of the codebook again. You know what will happen if they refuse. I am sorry…. Maybe you would like to get me a copy then I would not have to ask them…”
Richard turned his head and looked directly into Cole’s eyes as he listened. Tarik had been able to give him enough relief to allow him to unclench his teeth. In as normal a voice as he could manage, he said, “You will get nothing from me Cole… why don’t you just let me go ….. take your losses and leave? You have bitten off far more than you can chew…”
"No …. Oh well I had to ask.”
Frank walked over and stood behind Arianna again and looked at the group. Putting his hands on her shoulders he squeezed hard, causing her to emit a moan. “Sorry Princess, need to get everyone’s attention. Now Franco I will ask you again first. Where can I get a copy of the Caretaker code book, or maybe talk with the person who writes it?” Frank signaled one of the men to be ready to administer punishment to Greene, if he did not get his answer.
Cole knew he had just broken his newly made personal rule to stay away from Arianna, but he needed to get everyone’s attention. He also needed Tarik to realize he was not above hurting Arianna if he wanted too. It was not hard to fathom, Tarik knew how he was feeling about the Princess, but he could not lose her as a pawn in the game yet. He would not mark her up in anyway, but Tarik had to think he would.
Arianna could still feel the pain in her shoulders but that was not the most important thing on her mind at the moment. She knew Richard could not take much more, even with Tarik’s help, before he passed out. At that point, several things could happen. Cole could just revive him or wait until he was revived or he could decide to string someone else up. The most likely candidate for that would be Franco because Neo could be controlled by that move. It could also be Tarik, because Cole would think Ari could be controlled.
Richard took a couple of deep breaths to try and calm the fear, keep his eyes from spilling tears and get his stomach under control. The pain was coming. With Tarik’s help he had been able to stay conscious after the last three stripes had been made. He did not have high hopes on the same results if more stripes were but on top of those.
Tarik had been watching Richard still tied to the pole. His friend was hurt bad but holding onto consciousness. Tarik knew he could not use his wandless magic to get them loose but there was one thing he could do. Staring at Richard's back Tarik concentrated on the wounds. His own back started to feel like it was on fire, and he had a hard time sitting still and not moaning. Soon the wounds on Richards back started to heal themselves. It wasn’t much but it would be worth it even if he was caught
At first Richard felt a twinge in his back then there was a building heat. Before the heat got uncomfortable he could feel the skin on his back stretching and itching. As the stretching and the discomfort started to ebb, he realized most of the pain had left his back. There did not feelings as if it had been cut to ribbons. Somehow his back had been healed, and he was pretty sure Tarik was the one who had done it. Richard had been told at one time Tarik cured using an empathy process, which meant one person literally pulls the illness or damage onto themselves and allowed there body to cure the damage. Tarik would have had to take the cuts onto his own back in order to cure them. Richard felt sick to his stomach knowing what his friend must have felt.
Richard could feel a couple tears of relief escape his eyes. With some of his new found strength he told Tarik in his mind, “You know I am grateful Amir, but I cannot be the one to cause you so much pain. I know I cannot block your mind, but I ask that you do not take on my injuries, please. The last part was thought with as much of a pleading voice as Richard could use. He was frightened for his friend.
Richard listened as Tarik only gave him words of wisdom in his answer. “May I remind you, my brother of what was once written in Galatians 6 verse 2 (ESV) To bare one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Or if you need another example there is Romans 12 verse 21 which says Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. It will be alright Richard; I can handle a lot more than you are going through. All I ask of you is to concentrate on finding your center and keep breathing. I will not leave you. All Richard could do was nod his head gently and accept Tarik’s words. It amazed him that Tarik, felt comfortable with quoting both the Quran and the Bible. The man was a Saygar of the highest caliber and thus Richard felt required him to give him all the respect he could and to listen and accept his words.
As Frank had reached his position behind Arianna, he looked over at Richard and saw his back being healed before his eyes. Looking around the table he realized it was Tarik using his wandless magic. Rolling his eyes, he patted Arianna’s shoulders and whispered very close to her ear in a breathy tone, “Your brother is being bad, be right back.”
Tarik was becoming a real challenge to Cole. He did not normally spend a lot of time matching mental wits with his jobs . Usually he was hired, completed the job and walked away. He found the challenge very stimulating. He could not let Tarik get away with what he had done. His reputation was now on the line with seventeen possible recruits who he needed to obey him instantly and not wonder if they could get away with something behind his back.
Then he walked over to stand behind Tarik and tapped him on the shoulder than bent down and leaned on the back of the chair.
Arianna could only stare at Cole as he made his way to her brother’s chair. She had seen out of the corner of her eye, what Tarik had done to heal Richards back. She had also seen the affect it had on her brother. No matter how hard she tried she had never been able to master the art of empathy. Tarik was very good at it. Once it had almost cost him his life, saving a child who had been hurt very badly from a fall from a mountain side.
Her one thought was that maybe her baby brother had gone too far this time.
This placed his head level with Tarik’s. “Amir ….. Amir ….. Amir …. You cannot be good can you?” Frank gave Tarik a smile which did not bode well for anyone. “Now I know you promised not to use your wandless magic to free anyone, or against any of us, so technically you have not broken your word.” Frank patted Tarik on the shoulder with more strength. “You knew when you healed Greene’s back that I would not approve … you have also made it necessary for me to prove to the men around here, that I will not put up with your interference.” Adding a small cynical chuckle he asked, “Now who do you think should take the punishment for your humanitarian but miss-guided deed? I wonder who …. I wonder who….” Frank let his words trail off into nothing.
Richard tried to move so he drew attention to himself. Arianna may be safe from punishment because he realized with growing horror Cole had started to think of her in romantic terms, but she was Tarik’s sister so the most likely choice to use to control Tarik’s deeds. Richard had to make Cole mad with him so he said, “What’s wrong Cole, losing control over your subjects. You cannot even keep me damaged,” To this he added a small chuckle, he did not feel, but which would only add insult to what he had just said.
Arianna’s eyes widened. The words admonishing Richard were out of her mouth before she could silence them. “I order you to shut up Richard.” She then looked at Richard only because she did not dare look at Cole to see what effects her words had said, realizing she had played right into Richards’s ploy, and making it possible for Cole to get back at her brother and herself, by causing Richard more pain.
Cole looked up from his position behind Tarik and smiled. “Oh, very well said Princess … you think he will listen though. Amir, your sister is really feisty …” with a chuckle he added, “I think that is why I like her so much. I think I will go and stand by her while I consider who will get the punishment YOU [‘i] are causing me to dole out.”
Frank stood up and walked back over to stand behind Arianna, absently rubbing her cheek, while staring at Tarik. He did not like administering pain himself, but if he did not do this, the men around the room would think he was weak and start wondering if maybe they could get away with doing or not doing something. Frank raised his wand and with no warning to Richard, cut one deep slash across Richard’s back from shoulder to shoulder. Then he looked back at Tarik and raised his eyebrows in a mock question. Smiling he went back to his questioning.
Tarik made no movement just returned his stare. Cole nodded.
As Richard was thinking about the moan Arianna had just given, he saw one of the goons walk up beside him with a large smile on his face. The man was twirling his wand in his hand. Richard smiled back at him and then turned his head toward the pole and put his forehead on it. It helped him narrow his thoughts and prepare as much as possible to the pain which was coming.
The pain did not come from the man standing just within his vision. All of a sudden a red-hot searing spanned his back from shoulder to shoulder. A yell escaped his throat before he could guard against it. The cut must be deeper than the others, because it hurt much worse. His breath was coming fast as he fought to get control over the mussels in his back which had arched painfully backwards when the pain had hit. With effort he was able to bring his head forward and placed in on the pole. He had heard Arianna’s scream.
Richard could feel Tarik pushing relief onto him. There had been no time to prepare so it had probably caught Tarik off guard also. The cut on his back must be very deep and ugly. He could feel a slight oozing from the edges, which meant, Cole had hit a main artery. Thinking as hard as he could he begged Tarik not to heal the cut.
Richard new very little about empathy abilities, but what Tarik was doing to him had to be weakening his friend. Tarik was going to be needed to help the other. No matter what he said about him needing the help at the moment, Richard was worried.
Arianna had tried to steal herself against what Cole might do to Tarik. Her half-brother’s eyes looked straight ahead and they were not focused on anything in particular. When Cole told him someone was going to suffer for what he had done, and then had walked back to where she was held by the magical restraints, she started to focus on finding her detached place, because she feared it would be her who suffered. In an instant she was pulled back to reality when she saw the deep gash work its way slowly across Richards back. She screamed before she even realized she had opened her mouth. Under her breath she said, “You will pay Frank Cole ….. I promise you will pay in kind for what you are doing.”
Even through the pain, Richard had heard Arianna’s promise to Cole. She always kept her promise.
Richard all of a sudden took a deep breath. The excruciating pain between his shoulders had diminished to a dull ache, as if the cut was healed but the body was still remembering it’s existence. Richard looked straight at the pole and within a moment heard one of the goon standing beside him, who a minute ago had a huge smile on his face, scream and fall to the floor in a dead faint. He could still see him breathing although not well. As Richard looked down between his arms and the pole, he saw an ugly gash on the man’s back. He tried to look around to where Tarik was sitting but could not manage the maneuver. Thinking he asked, “Do you think that was a wise move, my friend? I am grateful, but Cole is going to be very upset.
It surprised Cole how fast everything happened. One second he was making the mark on Greene’s back and looking around the room to make sure it had the effect he wanted, and the next moment his eye’s shot to the floor on the other side of the table between Antonio and Franco. His man was lying on the floor with a large gash in his back, which mirrored the one he had just put onto Greene’s. His eyes went to Greene’s back which had no marks on it, only a redness where the cut should be. It was taking all he could do to keep his own anger under control. He needed a “blocker” for the man. As soon as he got a moment he would have one of the men put a note in the cabinet upstairs requesting at least two, one for Tarik and one for Arianna.
Ari looked at the floor where the man had landed and then at Richards back. Turning toward her brother, she gave him a smile, but added a very worried look.
Tarik smiled and said in a whisper, he knew Cole could hear, “He was the one who opened the challenge when he touched you, I just made my first move.” Then looking directly at Cole he added, “I could have chosen someone else if I chose too.”
“I am sure you could have Amir.” Pointing to the other two men standing near Franco, Cole motioned for them to take the man on the floor to the back corner of the room and lay him there. When they had done this and returned he motioned them to take up their positions again and called one of the “off duty” men over to make it a threesome. Until he could get the blockers there, his best bet now was to try and give Tarik a false sense of mastery over the situation, so he went back to his questions.
Frank patted Arianna’s shoulders and said, “I know Princess, I am sure you will attempt something at another time to repay me for all the attention you and your friends are getting. In fact,” he added with a cynical chuckle, “I look forward to having you chastise me …. It could be fun for both of us.”
Arianna tried to reach her shoulder with her head and bite Cole’s hand. She was beginning to think this mad man thought she might be interested in him. His tone was not joking anymore. He actually was looking forward to having her alone with him. She looked straight forward and tried to get control of her anger.
(Frank) “….Now Franco I will ask you again first. Where can I get a copy of the Caretaker code book, or maybe talk with the person who writes it?” Frank signaled one of the men to be ready to administer punishment to Greene, if he did not get his answer.
Neo had seen Richards back being healed and had tried not to look over to Tarik, because that was the only place that type of magic could have come from. He knew Cole had seen the results and wondered if it would go worse for Richard.
Neo’s head snapped toward his brother. The question Cole had asked would be impossible for his brother to answer, not because he did not know the answer but because his brother would never give up the information. Neo had brought his baby brother into the Caretakers and always felt responsible for him. Arianna had told him when he first put his brother’s name up for consideration it may not be a good idea. But at the time Neo told her confidently his brother could handle himself. Saying the words and feeling the words are too different things.
No matter how hard she considered the situation, Arianna could not think of a way to have Cole stop badgering Franco. Glancing at Neo she knew the man was using every bit of his training not to break… Franco and he were actually only about five minutes apart, in the quintuplets birth order, but Neo considered Franco his baby brother. This was going to be a hard test for Neo to go through. She was not overly confident he could make it through because his soft spot was too evident. If he did not she was going to have to reconsider his involvement with the Caretaker Group and that she did not want to do, because Neo was one of the best.
Frank watched the exchange of glances between Franco and his older brother Neo with interest. He knew they were close. It crossed his mind he might be able to use the affection between the two of them to his advantage. It would be good to keep the possibilities in mind.
His hands had gone back to absentmindedly massaging Arianna’s shoulders. He wished he had spent more time studying Legilimency, a form of Muggle mind reading. It would be interesting to find out if the information seemingly passing back and forth between the occupants at the table was through actual thought or whether it was a connection where they were “reading” the other person through expression and simple movements. If Cole was going to have his own little army, he realized he would have to be able to communicate through signals, but he loved a new challenge.
Arianna had noticed the look on Cole’s face. He was much too interested in the exchange between Neo and Franco. He was plainly considering how he could use that relationship to his best advantage. Ari was getting furious with herself; although she knew she would have not done anything different, that she had pulled the brothers together into the group. At the time she had figured to use them as a team, but the team also had inbred weaknesses.
Franco could see his brother was worried. He had to try and keep up the pressure and keep Cole off guard, even if it was stupid things he said, “What Cole you need a potty break?” if nothing else Cole would have his mind on trying to figure out why he was being so stupid and miss anything his brother, Tarik or the others could try.
It also seemed as if Cole was focusing in on Arianna as much as he could. He appeared to take every chance he could to be near her. Tarik was staring to fume about Cole's attention to the Princess and Tarik’s temper could only cause trouble before anyone was ready. Franco looked at Cole and in a challenging tone asked, “Can’t you find your own?” All he could think was “come on Cole, Come after me and leave the lady along.” If only Cole would give, some sign what Franco was trying was working He would not give up though, because something had to get through to the ice cube of a man.
As Cole was thinking about the communication problem, Franco made some strange comments. It took him a moment to realize he was trying to keep him from paying attention to his brother and the others. The man had guts he would give him that point.
Franco was looking at his brother and then at his friend. Saying almost in a whisper, "Neo, how can I protect one while sacrifice another? I can't make that choice. Never could? Not since dad and talk that day at the vet..."
Ari stared at Neo and tried to get a message to him to tell his brother to be quiet, but she knew the brothers would do anything they could to draw attention off each other. She closed her eyes for a moment to try and get her thoughts in order. There had to be a way out of this.
Richard knocked his head softly against the pole a couple of time. Franco was reliving a painful childhood memory. He had not tried to stop some older boys from hurting a dog, when he was young, and the dog had to be put to sleep. The boy’s father had told Franco, if he had tried to help the dog may have lived. Now Franco was being asked to choose between Seth and himself. Richard tried to whisper, “The book is the most important here, Franco …. The book is the most important.” He was not sure he had gotten through; he hoped he had.
Cole leaned in Greene’s direction in a loud whisper, not meant to be private said, “Yes, Greene the book is the most important …. I am glad we agree.” He chuckled and stood back up straight.
Tarik listened and then said quietly, “Why is this book so important? It cannot be a normal book or my sister would have already given it up. So why is it worth more than what Cole is putting Richard though and why does my older brother need it?”
Neo heard Tarik, and after taking a deep breath, because he had tried to not think of the consequences of letting someone see the Codebook, he said quietly, "Cause every contact any of us have is in that book and if Shadow plans on taking Tia's protection out...We will be handing him them on a silver platter, Fixer included...As for why Khalid wants that book, I have no clue which is why neither it nor it's writer are being given up, Tarik?"
Cole knew his name was in the Codebook, but under the codename "Gatherer" because of his knack of being able to retrieve information and people, others needed. He had not had a lot of work from the man he knew as Codebreaker but it had been enough for him to get his name in the book. It worried him..... however, he had been told he would be able to do some damage control, once his employer had the information.
Neo knew Frank was watching his every move. The man considered him an enemy and a possible opponent. There was nothing he could do about Cole’s analysis, except maybe use what the man thought he learned against him later. It would mean some change ups in his maneuvers but he liked giving surprises. He needed to say something to his brother. He was afraid Franco would do something to get himself killed or hurt. It would kill him to see Franco on the pole next to Richard or even in place of Richard. Neo was afraid if Franco pushed Cole too hard that would be where he would end up. “Franco, remember the spider that Marco showed you?” was all he could say to get his brother to be careful about how hard he pushed.
Franco stopped and thought about what his brother was trying to tell him. Marco had showed him a trap-door spider. Smiling he nodded as he said, “Yea, Marco still owes me a bird,” he had gotten his brother’s message.
Looking at Air, he asked with his eyes, if she could help him. Her mouth was set in a straight line, and she slowly shook her head no. Franco was on his own and Richard was going to suffer.
There was nothing Arianna could say to Franco, so she set her face as none expressive as she could. The man had to work this out himself. She could not and would not tell him to give up the codebook, which could mean the deaths of thousands of innocents. No matter what she did, there would be no way to keep Richard from more pain, if Cole kept on the course he was traveling. She was saved from Franco’s pleading stare, by Neo.
Watching Franco plead with Arianna to help made him think of when he had pleaded with his mother to make his father stop pushing him toward the edge of the cliff. She had gotten the same look on her face. Cole had not known his father had placed a net just below the level of the cliff and was trying to teach him to accept his fears and fight. Cole could still remember looking up at his father from that net and vowing it would be the last time he would not fight with all his might for self-preservation. He wondered if Franco would go over the cliff.
Frank let a questioning smile spread across his face as he looked back and forth between the two brothers, which one would break first to save the other mental or physical pain. He nodded when Neo was the first to talk and try and save his brother from have to make a choice. Frank stared at the older brother as he listened. He also tried to not squeeze Arianna’s shoulders tight again, at least not for the present.
The increased tension in Cole’s hands on her shoulder, made Ari know his attention was on using the brother’s feelings for each other. At the moment she could not do anything because it would just add importance to his wonderings.
Neo had to do something so he asked, “How do you plan on talking to the writer? The Caretakers have a strong honest reputation for keeping what is told to us private. Frank Cole, would you be pleased if one of your clients gave you up?”
“To answer your first question… Taking to the writer should not be a problem. When I find out who she or he is, I will simply make an appointment with the person and make it so they cannot refuse to see me. Then we will come to a very pleasant understanding of what they need to do… It is as simple as that. …. I do not plan on killing the person … It all depends …” Frank let his words trail off.
Guarding Seth Wright just became very high on the priority list. The man already felt crowded by the security in place around him at the moment. He was not going to like this, but Arianna was not planning on giving him a choice. Seth was too valuable. She promised she would stop short of locking him in an enclosed room, but not much short.
It was not hard for Richard to realize, Seth was about to come under Arianna’s very close protection. Hopefully some of the others could soften her procedures, or Seth could find himself with a twenty-four hour body guard and not allowed to go anywhere without very close supervision. The man was a walking encyclopedia of Caretaker information.
Before Neo could say anything Franco said, “That is what you think! Hope you like Azkaban?”
“Been there, done that once,” Cole said with a half smile. He had been arrested and charged with killing someone and had been thrown into Azkaban, until they realized there was no evidence against him. Cole had actually not killed that man. It was not a place he relished returning too ever. He had to purposely get himself put into solitary confinement just to keep away for the Dementor’s.
He had been right, Neo agreed, because the writer would not take Cole’s reputation for granted. The trap would be sprung b the writer guard, not by Cole. Neo had so smile, his baby brother was using his voice, which under the right circumstances could be very useful, in drawing someone’s attention away from where his brothers were trying to work on a problem. The only thing Neo wished was Franco had a little more experience, especially against someone the caliber of Cole.
Franco smiled as he said, “Hope you liked being there as you go after the writer of the Codebook, Cole? You will go back that I can Promise You!”
"I truly hope you never have to visit the place Franco." Cole looked away as some of his experiences in the place, flashed through his mind. "I seriously doubt you would survive..."
Cole shot a glance to Neo and nodded. "As for me visiting there again, I am not going to do anything which would get me sent back there; no one is going to die .... I am only going to have a talk with one person, as soon as you all are nice and wise enough to tell me who I need to talk with."
“Now for your second question… No Neo, I would not be pleased if one of my clients gave me up to their enemy, but I am very careful to take out insurance that never happens. I never walk blindly into a job and never without research on both my client and the subject of my job”
With that statement, Franco realized why his disguise had not worked. Somehow others had known what they were planning. He knew it had been too convenient Cole was in the storeroom. Franco had broken his one rule when he had put on the makeup and agreed to pretend he was Cole. He had not done his preparation like the professional he was supposed to be. “Who told you I was coming here, Cole? I know you would not have figured it out yourself.”
This was a very important question, and Arianna was waiting for the answer.
Cole could not help himself. He let out a laugh from the bottom of his stomach, “Ah, the one million Gold Galleon question.” He looked straight into Franco’s eyes, because he wanted to see the full effect when he said, “Franco, my dear man you were set up …. It seems there is someone who wants to ask you a lot more questions than I have been asked to find out.” Cole wondered if Franco would pick up on the fact he would probably not be set free for a while … even when the others who survived had been released. Cole almost felt sorry for the man. He was going to need a lot more courage and fortitude then he was displaying to Cole at the moment, to survive his future.
Looking back at Franco he said, “Your time is almost up …. The book or the person would be fine.” Shaking his head Frank thought for a moment, to himself, “This is not getting me anywhere; the group is very well trained …. a lot better trained then I was let on to believe or was able to find out about …. I need to come up with something else…” When Arianna moved under his massaging hands he realized he had been squeezing again … so he loosened the grip a bit and realized she may be the answer.
Franco looked at Neo but his eyes were having trouble focusing. Then he looked toward Richard on the pole and finally looked Arianna in the eyes as he shook his head as he said, “There is no way the writer is getting into Shadow's hands! Give Up Fixer, I would sooner sell out Neo then give up the writer! Neither is Happening!” Franco started having a hard time catching his breath. He concentrated on taking deep breaths and not panicking. The doctors had told him panic would cause the breathing problem to get worse.
Franco's breathing was definitely becoming labored. "I do not think I was talking to you Franco, but since you decided to put your thoughts into this ... I will tell you now I will have either the person's name who writes the codebook or a copy of the codebook... because my friend no one is leaving here until I have it and the other information requested by my employer."
"As for setting up your brother instead of the person I want ... well we will see how you feel about that in a little while .... be patient." Cole figured it was going to eventually get to the point; in order to get Neo to talk Franco was going to have to be used or vice versa. At the moment, he needed to give Franco a little down time, if he could. He did not want him passing out before he could use him to get to Neo.
When Cole’s hands froze from massaging her shoulders and tightened painfully, Arianna looked up at the man’s face. He was staring at nothing. She involuntarily let a shiver travel through her body. The man was up to something… something which had just occurred to him.
It did not take a mind reader to realize Frank had an idea. From the way his hands had frozen on Arianna’s shoulders, he was planning to implement it immediately. Franco had to get him to come after him. “Thought you wanted your answer? Giving up already?” All he received back was a milieus grin.
“I have not given up Franco, just a small change of tactics is needed, I think,” He glanced at everyone at the table and then at Richard. “If you all will please pardon my abrupt change of plans, I will be right back.” After taking just a couple of steps he turned and bowed to Arianna, and gave a side long glance in Tarik’s direction to make sure he saw he was showing respect for the man’s sister.
Patting Arianna on the shoulders but not saying anything, Frank motioned to Antonio to come with him for a private chat.
Everyone’s eyes were following him and Antonio to the bar …. Cole could feel them. He looked to make sure the men in the room were paying strict attention. It made him smile to see how each was trying to outdo the other one in showing they were all business and knew how to handle their part of the job. Khalid must have sweetened the pot even for them. He hoped this plan worked because he was getting tired of asking…. Not tired enough to quit and give back the small fortune he had already been paid but because the whole group had become a challenge of wills …. And he had not lost a challenge this big for a while. At least this part of the plan would bring some enjoyment to him.
When they had reached the end of the bar, Frank turned to face the man and without hesitating explained, “I need to change the way we are doing things. Because of this I need to leave the room and take the Princess with me. I know you are their friend so I will not ask you to guard them, but I will need to have Chameleon out.”
Arianna was getting very upset with herself. She could not stop her body from shaking. If Cole wanted a private talk with Antonio, there could be only one reason …. Chameleon. When she had learned what the different personalities which inhabited Antonio’s body had done, she had squashed the idea of allowing Antonio into the Caretakers. Antonio and his other selves had decided they needed a killer side to the group and had combined as many of their worst traits as they could and created the Chameleon. The personality was a pure blooded killer triggered by the use of Jack Daniels and Vodka combined in a drink. They had thought they could control the other self, but the Shadow had found out and purposely allowed Chameleon out as much as he could, training him to think all his other personalities wanted to do was kill him. All they really wanted to do was absorb him back into the group.
Franco looked at his brother and from the look he got back they were both under the same opinion this was not a good move. Antonio had never been bound, because Cole had known he would never go up against him. This was because of two reasons. The first was the man’s Uncle known in not so polite circles as the Shadow. The man was an egotistic bludgeon on society. He did not care who he hurt and loved to deal out pain and suffering to make himself feel more important. Antonio was scared of him.
The second reason was the fact Cole was stronger than him magically and probably physically. Cole also had information, which would cause Antonio to be hurt by this Uncle. Franco knew Cole could call out the one weapon which would take their chances of survival and send it plummeting down. Antonio had multiple personalities and one of those was known as the Chameleon. A part of the man who’s only thrill in life was to maim and kill. He had been tutored by the Shadow.
Looking over his shoulder as the man walked toward the bar Franco tried to convince Antonio not to give in, “Tonio, you going to forget your promise to Marcus so easy?” As he looked back at his brother he knew he also felt what he said did not good.
Richard had been watching the men walk toward the bar. When he heard Franco, use the name “Tonio”, which was the name used for Anthony when he was in school, he realized what was probably about to happen. They had stopped within his view.
Frank saw Antonio visibly jump. “I will not allow that, Frank. It was not part of the original deal on getting Franco here. In fact Richard and Arianna were not supposed to be involved.” The man was violently shaking his head no.
“You have no choice in this move Antonio. It was Franco who involved them not me; I only work with what I have. If you want your Uncle and Grandfather to find out how you attempted to warn Franco about me then continue to refuse me…” Frank waited.
Antonio sadly shook his head as he said quietly, “You would risk him going after her?”
Cole stared at Antonio for a very long moment, “I work one job at a time. I have found in the past there are times a job bend back on a job in the past, but I only work with the present.” Cole let he eyes wander but soon brought them back to Antonio, “Shadow is going to do whatever he wants. When I am finished here I might work another job for him or work for someone totally different. In my off time is my time off, maybe I will visit Miss Tia when I am finished here. All depends on what kind of mood I am in on how that visit goes.” Cole probably was going to visit Tia, although he was not sure if he would introduce himself. It would be good to see something that ended happily on one of his jobs. That did not happen very often.
Antonio listened realizing something had changed his friend. Something or someone had taken him for a long horrible ride to a darker spot than he was use to travel to. “Cole, we go back quite a ways and though we might disagree on how to get things done, I always known there were lines you would never cross until now. What Happened to you, man? Shadow has made that young girl's life a living hell and you are willing to put her through more? Cole, every person at that table has only one goal that binds us together. That is to protect that girl and insure that she has what is needed to fulfill her destiny.”
"We do go back a long way Tony, but I have learned when you are working, friendships mean very little.... I did not say I was going to hurt the girl.... just visit her.... see how she is growing.... see if it made any difference in what I did, saving her life. Destiny's can be changed, as you well know..." Cole had enough with changing destinies in his life. He had promised himself he would never get that close to someone again; someone who could change the destiny he was headed for.... never again.
Antonio tried to add all the seriousness to his voice he could dig up out of his heart when he said , “Cole, Please...They will never trust Grandfather enough to give him a copy of that book or the writer! They cannot...cause to do so would take away any protection that young princess has...They are sworn to protect her, just as the Pact is! Please Cole Stop this, Cause Where Tia is concerned You and Grandfather are going to Fail!”
Cole looked into Antonio's eyes as he tried to get him to understand where he was with the Tia situation, "I have nothing to do with Tia ..... I have not been hired to protect her or to get information from her.... Shadow is his own person.... I will promise you and only you, if I visit her, no when I visit her she will not be harmed and she will not know how I am connected to any of you, unless you all choose to tell her.... but I do not recommend that."
Antonio saw his friend had changed and it was not a good change but he owed it to his friend to try to help him understand so he continued, "Cole, you are asking me to let Chameleon take control. Do you really think he will give control back? He had control for years Cole and he will do anything to keep control. You saw firsthand what Chameleon is like and Shadow uses that to remove anything standing in his way...Especially anybody that stands between him and the princess! If Shadow tells Chameleon to bring him somebody or deliver a message...Chameleon does it without blinking an eye! You really want him to pick up where he left off. Cole, Richard would be a Dead Man as would everybody at that table...And You say Tia won't be harmed..."
Cole rubbed his hand over his face. He did not like the way this conversation was going.... they were way off track of his job needs. "Antonio, I said Tia would not be hurt when I was with her, if I could stop what was being done. You say she is nice, and I will believe you; you say everyone here is trying to help her fulfill her destiny, I believe that also, but I am not part of her destiny so give it up."
After Cole answered, Antonio looked at the table trying to get his thoughts in order. Looking back at Cole he said, "I don't have a choice do I? You would really tell Shadow knowing he will go after Tia. Can you really do that with no regrets?"
"I always have regrets, Tony, always, but I have learned to work through them and move to the next job. I will not harm the girl. Shadow has not asked me to do anything against her.... having Chameleon out when I need him is my choice, which you will go along with. Our friendship can only keep you alive so much.... so give it up"
“What your Shadow does will be totally up to you Antonio.” Cole was not planning on telling Shadow or Khalid what Antonio had done. It was none of their business because it had been a mistake on his part for letting it be known he was in the store room. One idea Cole lived by was no one ever paid for his mistakes. Antonio was not going to pay for this one.
Antonio was starting to panic a little bit. He could not control the other part of him known as Chameleon and it scared him deeply to know Cole was going to want him out in the open. He had to keep trying so he added, “What he would do is start his terrorizing again! He has been slowly destroying her though his notes, presents and visits...He has only stopped because I made that deal with him...You tell him that I warned Franco about you and either Tia will get a note or worst she will disappear and who knows what he will put her through this time...You know I can't risk that...”
Cole shrugged and said, "Then I guess you need to do the right thing, so none of your worries come to pass."
Cole was talking just load enough so everyone at the table could hear.
Richard swallowed hard but could not take his eyes off of Cole and Antonio standing at the bar. His worse fears had been confirmed. He looked up to where his hands were tied, knowing he was going to see nothing which would change his situation. Putting his head on the pole, he thought, “Tarik, take care of Ari please ….. if the Chameleon is let loose, he will probably not let me live. Please tell her how much I care for her.” Richard then turned his attention back to the bar.
Richard heard in his head, “My Friend what have you told me you learned the last time you were in Chameleon’s presence in the Hog’s Head. The man is like a little boy who think pain is power … You can and will survive this ordeal.”
Franco cringed when he heard his name. Cole was blaming him for getting all of them into this problem. Franco was beginning to believe it … he had told Arianna he would be able to pull the deception off and get her to be taken to the Echelon headquarters … he was the one who should have done more prep work befor coming …. And he was the one who was Neo’s soft spot and allowed Cole to capture his brother. Franco was sinking lower into a bog of self worth. He started to think what he could do to get them out, even if it meant him dying.
Neo had been listening to Cole talking to Antonio also. His attention was brought back to his brother as he heard him murmuring something about being the cause of their capture. Taking a chance Frank was too busy with Antonio he whispered to his brother, “Franco, I have been in worst fixes. At least Marco is not here to see me packaged. You think he won’t let you live it down? Just think of the egging I am going to receive when we get back? And don’t you dare tell him!” Then he gave him an encouraging smile.
Franco heard his brother and gave a sly grin. Marco was always looking for something to tease Neo about.
Arianna was trying to listen to what Cole was saying to Antonio, but she also picked up on the fact, Franco was blaming himself for the predicament they were in. There was no way for her to explain the finer points of the argument at the moment. It made her even more weary thinking of the work she had ahead of her when they got out of here. Franco was going to almost have to be retrained; Neo was going to have to be given training on how to hide his soft-spot and not let it affect what he did, Tarik was going to have to be brought up to speed and given the choice of joining or not joining the Caretakers and her relationship with Richard was going to have to be researched.
At least Neo seemed to recognize the pit of emotions his brother was falling into and attempting to get him out of it or at a minimum from sinking deeper.
Cole had been watching the room as he waited for Antonio to agree, the man had no choice. Neo and Franco were whispering back and forth; Arianna was looking very worried and Greene was just staring at him and Antonio. None of the guards had said anything. They were all Echelon professionally trained so they had enough intelligence to tell him if anything was said he needed to know about, just in case though he would remember to ask them later.
Antonio hung his head. He knew whatever punishment Frank could dish out would seem like a slap on the wrist compared to what his Uncle would do to him. “Alright, I will do as you say.”
Frank nodded and added, “I will promise you Chameleon will get nothing stronger than Jack to drink, he will not be allowed to add Vodka to it… and when I am finished with his usefulness I will allow you to return to the top. I will allow him to punish others if he needs to, but I will not let him kill. You see Antonio; I have learned how to control Chameleon. If it works this time I will let you in on the secret and maybe you can pull him back into your little self contained group as a valued member. Do not fight me on this and all your friends will live!”
Richard could not take his eyes off the men. His fate was walking back to the table. He tried to get his friend Antonio to look at him, but the man was only looking at the floor. Antonio was trapped.
Arianna looked at Richard and could see the mussel’s fighting on his back. Richard knew Chameleon wanted him dead. Looking at her brother who she knew was still connected to Richard; she asked with her eyes if he was going to be all right. To her unasked question she received a nod and a small smile. Realizing that was all the reassurance she was going to get, Ari tried to relax and see what would happen next.
Neo shot a look at his brother as Frank and Antonio returned to the table. He was willing his brother to keep his mouth shut.
Franco only stared at Antonio.
“At least I have gotten everyone’s attention,” Cole thought as he chuckled to himself. Even the men in the room had some questioning looks on their faces. They were alert but some thought of this as a game and Cole liked that, because he always considered life one big game of chess.
(Franco) He knew what was about to happen and there was nothing he could do about it. He looked at Richard on the pole. Antonio was Richard’s friend, but the Chameleon side hated Richard with a passion and would think nothing of it to cause him as much pain as he could before the man died.
“I have one thing to say Frank, then I will follow what you say. Tarik has a very strong Blood-magic which he had refused to use in the past, because he is afraid of it and can not control it. If he lets it loose people will die and I do not want to be part of that.” Antonio was afraid for his friends.
“I will watch for it… you just gained points for the warning.” Frank nodded to Antonio
Tarik would never bring out his Blood-magic for the one reason Antonio said, but Richard felt the Magi cringe when the subject was brought up again.
Both Neo’s and Franco’s eyes went to Tarik. The Medjai knew he had blood-magic and he did try and bury it deep, because he was afraid of it. Maybe it was good Frank knew about it, as long as it did not get Tarik killed, to keep it from being used.
With this being said, Frank motioned for Antonio to sit back down. On the way to the table he reached behind the bar grabbed a very large glass and a bottle of Jack, and then followed Antonio to the table. After Antonio sat down, Frank slammed the glass on the table in front of him and filled it to the brim with Jack. Looking around the table, he said to in a voice, which dared anyone at the table to speak, “Drink it Antonio, every drop. If you need more, I will pour.”
Antonio watched the glass become full with the one thing which would allow Chameleon to come to the top of the personalities, undiluted Jack Daniels. He took one last look at Frank then lifted the glass to his lips, being careful not to look at anyone else at the table. He was betraying them all. At first he started to sip, but Frank reached down and forced the glass higher making it necessary for Antonio to drink large gulps. Some still escaped his mouth, but most of it burned his throat as it went down.
Arianna slowly looked around the table. Everyone’s eyes were on Antonio. Even Richard was trying mostly unsuccessfully to look at his friend. She had no idea how long the transformation would take, but with every gulp of Jack, Antonio’s express was changing, becoming more ridged. His eyes were also starting to change to hold black centers. The Chameleon was emerging. The man was also sitting upright in the chair with a very relaxed posture. Cole no longer had to force the Jack down Antonio’s throat because he was willingly holding the glass and draining its contents.
As Antonio started to be forcibly made to drink the liqueur down quickly, Franco looked at his brother. He swallowed hard. He had like hope of getting Chameleon to come after him. The chameleon would most likely go after Richard. He realized if Cole wanted to take revenge on neo or even Prove a point he would have the Chameleon go after his brother.
All Neo could do was give his brother a small smile in answer to the fear in his eyes. He knew about the Chameleon and knew Franco was no challenge to him. He also knew Chameleon wanted Richard dead, and wanted it to happen by slow measure.
After about two-thirds of the glass was gone. Antonio forcibly pushed the glass back down to the table, stretched and smiled at Frank. The Chameleon was out.
The transformation of Antonio into Chameleon was very interesting. Cole had paid particular attention to the change in body language and facial expressions. He also noticed Chameleon was left-handed, because he had used that hand to push the glass away. Cole smiled and filled the glass back up to the top.
Arianna dropped her chin to her chest …. the beast was out. Now they had another problem to keep in check as much as possible.
Richard could only put his head back and look at the ceiling. He knew there would be no devine intervention, but he had to ask. Turning the best he could and looking under his arm, between the pole and his body, he tried to gauge what mood Chameleon was in as he immerged.
Frank smiled and said, “Welcome Chameleon, glad to see you again.” Looking up at Richard, Frank chuckled when he saw the expression on the man’s face. Then he motioned to Chameleon to pick up his glass which he had refilled and to follow him to the bar.
Franco had as much nerve as the next man. However, when chameleon was in control, he looked straight ahead not wanting to meet the man’s eyes. Franco could not even look at his brother, because he knew even Neo had to know he was frightened and it made him feel embarrassed. He tried to breathe deeper and get the sick feeling in his stomach to stop to stop trying to escape up his throat.
All Neo wanted to do at the moment was try and comfort his brother. He was fighting his own fear, but it was under control, not like his brothers. Franco had been protected, maybe too much, because he did not know how to bury the fear enough to accept it and not let it try and control him. If you had fear, you could lose the ability to think and you would miss opportunities to beat your enemy or carry out a mission. He would have to have strong words with hid baby brother when they got out of his. Neo would have to allow their other brothers to start training Franco like they had wanted too. He would always be there to temper some of the training until Franco grew accustomed to the fear it generated. All he wished for at the moment was to have the magic words to help his brother get past the debilitating affects of the fear. Not even magic would have helped at this point.
Cole had been actually enjoying himself. The fear he created was so strong it could be felt permeating the air. If he kept it going his next move should help to get him the information he wanted about the Codebook. The strongest fear was still coming from Franco. If Cole got a chance he would see if he could help Franco control his fear. His father and mother had shown him how and he was willing to pass the method, although extremely unpleasant, on if it would help someone else.
When they had reached the same place the two had stood before, Frank turned to Chameleon and said, “I need you to do a little job for me Chameleon. Consider it further training which we started before. I need to take the Princess there,” he motioned toward Arianna, “to have a talk with her in the storeroom. I have no one out here I can trust to watch the others, so I thought about you.”
Arianna strained to hear what was being said by the two men at the bar. She had very good hearing, but Cole did not want to be heard at the moment, so no part of the conversation came their way. The man was even being careful to turn so no one could read their lips. ….It had not been difficult to see Cole’s arm motion stopped when the swing had reached her. …. It looked like she was the next on the list of Cole’s questing.
Richard had seen the same movement and although he was not 100% sure he thought it had stopped pointing to Ari. He started to fight the bonds on his hands, but stopped after a few futile tries. Putting his forehead on the pole he thought, [/i] “Tarik he is going after Ari ….. get me loose…. I need to stop him. [/i] Richard knew Tarik could not release him first because he had sworn and second if he did, Richard was certainly dead and maybe others also.
Tarik’s reply only exasperated Richard. Tarik had thought to him in a very firm tone which did not leave room for questioning, “it is the brother’s place to take care of one’s sister until her marriage, only then does it fall to her husband. Richard understood and tried to tell him that but it was nerve racking to realize he might not get to that point.
The main room of the Hog’s Head was quiet …. Only the casual movements of the goons still standing and occasional caught, but Cole was speaking barely in a whisper and no one at the table could hear what he was saying. His motion toward the table was general but Franco realized the swing of his arm had stopped when it pointed at Arianna. Franco swallowed hard again and looked at the lady. She had no expression on her face …. It was completely blank. Even Neo’s face had taken on the look of cold stone. Tarik was almost st that point. Richard had his head against the pole. Franco wished he could go into himself like the others did. he had never been able to find the spot where the outside would did not matter, where fear and pain were felt but could be ignored.
Cole stood at the bar so he could see the room. The look on Arianna’s face let him know he was talking about her. “It will be alright Princes …. We will have our fun in a few moments,” he thought to himself and added a wink he knew she saw. Greene was concentrating, so he was probably communicating with Tarik. A quick glance at Tarik confirmed this by the stare on the man’s face. Franco was not visibly shaking, but he was still showing signs of fright. If Greene gave out he would use Franco, but not with cuts from a wand …. Fists would be the best for the man with an occasional knife prick, to learn to conquer both fear and the burying of pain. Cole was even considering personally inflicting the hits and cuts to help the young man.
When Frank saw the expression of pure delight come over Chameleons face he realized the man was thinking of how much he could create pain to the ones in the room, so he quickly added, “No none, and I repeat no one is to die. No pain is to be metered out by you personally, you are in charge not one of the underlings like the rest. I will let you know when you can give the order for punishment and who to give it too. The only time you may decide on your own, is if someone tries to escape or interrupt me with my visit with Arianna. Am I being clear enough in this Chameleon? This is a test to see if you have grown in your abilities.” Frank felt like he was training a child, but in some ways Chameleon was a child. He had been created by the other three personalities inhabiting his body to be the weapon side of the group, and had never been taught how to think of other possibilities to get what he wanted.
The Chameleon looked at Frank Cole; the man was a good Saygar (teacher) in how to get information from others who may not want to give it up. All the things he had tried before Frank Cole had started to teach him had usually ended in the death or insanity of the person he was questioning before he got his information. Uncle and grandfather had been very upset with him each time he had made his report. He was afraid they would not allow Antonio to let him out. This made him readily agree to follow Frank Cole in what he wanted. He looked over at the group and shook his head yes. His eyes fastened on Richard Greene and saw how the man was strung on the pole with a visible wound on his back, and blood on his torn shirt. Maybe Frank Cole will allow me one shot at the man he thought with a smile spreading across his face.
Frank nodded and walked back to the table followed by Chameleon.
Cole did not have a lot of confidence in the man/boy known as Chameleon; he did not think, he reacted. He was going to have to watch him closely as you watch a small boy learning how to kill an animal for the first time. His father had taken him hunting and when they had cornered a deer, he had made Cole shoot it with a bow and arrow. The shot had not killed the animal, and his father had handed him a knife and told him to slit the animal’s throat. Cole remembered seeing those eyes staring up at him as he had lifted the bucks head to get a better spot to make the cut. The eyes had been pleading with him to help. The only way he could help was to finish the job. He made the cut and watched as the deer’s life seeped out of him. His father than took some of the blood and generously wiped it on Cole’s face, arms and clothing.
He was told he was now bloodied and the next time would be easier. It had, but he had to endure nightmares for a month. Those he learned to suppress also, because every time he woke in night-sweats his father beat him ….. he said to toughen him up and to learn what he thought in his dreams could never measure up to what was in real life. Cole had taken this to heart and had let it flow, not only through hatred but through love. Cole had taken some of his dreams and made them into real life experiences, and found his father was right ….. real life was much better and more enjoyable in most circumstances.
Arianna realized no one at the table had missed the byplay between Cole and Chameleon. Even Franco had been able to turn in his chair to watch. Cole and Chameleon had come to an agreement. Richard was definitely being singled out although Cole only appeared to single her out. Chameleon’s hatred for Richard was his own private affair. Hopefully Cole could keep it at that stage.
Richard kept his eyes on the two men as they returned to the table. As he caught Chameleon’s eyes, he tried to put on the biggest smile he could achieve. He knew he would be giving Chameleon more room for hatred, but he was also playing on the possibility Chameleon would be confused because he was not showing fear. It was a long shot, but may save him some pain in the long run, if Chameleon was given the opportunity to act on his own. Adding to the smile he asked out loud, “Cole, do you think I might get something to drink… maybe a coke with a lot of cherry syrup?” Richard had learned in his last visit with Chameleon, Coke with cherry syrup would calm the man down, and would make it easier to bring Antonio to the surface. Richard only received a stare from Cole, but Chameleon had a puzzled look on his face. Richard put his forehead on the cool wood of the pole and allowed himself a small smile. He had gotten through.
The last time Greene had come to the Hog’s Head when Cole had been there, had also included Chameleon. Chameleon had been given the job of finding out some information from Greene and had strung him up and was torturing him. The man had known no other way to try and get information. Cole had been sent there to keep Greene alive. During the time, Cole had found out cherry cokes and Butterbeer were two drinks Chameleon could drink and stay as Chameleon but not want to torture and kill everyone around him. “Hold on,” he said to Chameleon and then walked over to where Greene was hanging. Balling up his fist he jammed into Richards’s mid-section with as much force as he could using a short pull back. “Shut up Greene or I will put him in charge of you and give him straight vodka, understand me?” He did not wait for an answer, but went back to working his way around the table, motioning Chameleon to stand between the pole Greene was fastened to and Franco’s chair.
Franco looked at Chameleon and smiled as he said, “A double cherry coke sounds good. What do you think Antonio? Maybe with a couple real cherries and a plate of No Named Cookies?”
Cole looked at Franco with daggers in his eyes. "I will decide what everyone drinks around here .... or for that fact if anyone drinks around here. Keep your comments to yourself Franco or someone will pay for your mouth," with this Cole glanced at Greene, on the pole to get his point across.
Just then, one of the men came over smiling with a doctored Jack. Handing it to Antonio as he said, “Here Antonio, your favorite drink. Coke is for sissies...”
Bending down as he whispered in Chameleon’s ear, “...Right Chameleon? This will put you in the right frame of mind to prove that we don't need Fixer!”
Chameleon smiled as he smelled the Vodka. Looking at the new man, he grabbed the man by the throat as he said enjoying every moment of his new found power, “The name is Antonio, not Chameleon fool! Grandfather put Fixer in Charge not You! Maybe You want to Repeat to Fixer what you just said. I am Sure he Might Enjoy a Good Laugh! Because I am really curious as to what Tat your left hand carries?”
Having just finished telling everyone he would decide when anyone drank and what they drank it surprised him when one of the guards bought Chameleon a drink. The look on the Chameleon's face spoke volumes. Cole took out his knife and threw it so it knocked the drink out of the man's hand.... quickly recalling it back to his hand. Chameleon had said something to the man he had not quite caught so he said; "Get back to your station or leave, but do one immediately."
Looking at Chameleon he asked, "Antonio is there a problem I should be aware of?"
Chameleon smiled almost sure he had done the right thing and hoping Cole had seen it as correct as he said, "This man thought that he could prove that we don't need you...Like Grandfather was unwise in choosing you over him or Shadow? And on top of it all, he hands me a Jack mixed with Vodka! I told him Grandfather put you in Charge not him and asked if he cared to repeat his words to you...Should we have a look at his left hand or should I just crush his throat for his loose tongue?"
It did not take a moment for Cole to comprehend what Chameleon was telling him. He signaled for two men at the bar to grab the man. When he saw, they had a good grip on the goon he turned to Chameleon and said, "Why don't you show me his left hand .... if the mark is there, he will be taken upstairs, his hand will be removed and he will be sent back to my employer to deal with along with the severed hand." Cole watched as the goon fought and decided to add two more to the mix. It took all four of them to carry the man upstairs, where a scream floated down the steps, quickly followed by silence.
First looking around the room to make sure the effect of what he had just done hit home, Cole turned back to Chameleon and said, "Thank you Antonio that was very well done. You are learning and I am very proud of your progress."
Chameleon stood a little straighter and confidence was spreading throughout his body. "Thank you Saygar ... I have been listening and learning."
Franco hoped he was not visibly shaking. He had caught the look of joy on Chameleon’s face and that meant he was looking forward to whatever Cole wanted him to do …. There was only one thing which made Chameleon truly happy …. Causing pain and anguish. When the chameleon looked dead at Richard, Franco’ stomach heaved again. He could see Richard breathing deeply and knew he could not help his friend.
Neo noticed his brother’s face go white and hoped he would not be sick. There was a very slight tremor to his brother’s body also. He thought to himself, “Hang in their Frankie … just hang in there brother.” But Cole and Chameleon were on their way back to the table so he did not dare say anything. If Chameleon realized Franco was as frightened as he was, he would zero in on him and his own special brand of attention. Neo was not sure he could make it through that, so he relaxed his face mussels and tried to stay in his special place of his mind.
Chameleon stopped about two feet away from the table so he could see Richard and all the others. He only had a side view of Franco but he could still see what he was doing. Frank had proceeded to his normal preferred spot behind Arianna. Putting his hands on her shoulders, he said, “May I have everyone’s attention please? I have decided our friends here need a change in the game, so I have asked Antonio,” Frank did not want to let on to the goons about the change, “to keep an eye on everyone for me because I need to step out of the room.”
This was good news, but when Arianna saw the look on Coles face she realized there was more. From the way he was squeezing her shoulders she also realized the target was most likely her. If Cole was leaving the room she would be leaving with him. She fought the fear as best she could.
Arianna was shaking. Cole smiled because he knew the adrenalin would help to augment the good time he was going to show her in a very few minutes. He was starting to feel a bit of an adrenalin rush himself as he felt her quake under his hands on her shoulder. He squeezed just a bit harder to let her know she would not have to wait long.
Chameleon realized he was not supposed to let anyone else know he was not Antonio, so he tried to smile as he thought his lesser body companion would smile. Frank was putting him in charge. That was something his Uncle had never allowed. He tried to stand taller and looks like his Grandfather when he was discussing important business. He even leveled out his smile to look sterner.
Neo did not like this one bit. Cole, who Neo knew was not crazy, was putting a mad man who only liked to hurt other in charge while he left the room. It did give him a small amount of hope though because with Cole out of the room, the group may be able to control some of the movements of the goons. Tarik and Arianna both could do wandless magic. Combined it should be enough to allow them to get loose, take down Chameleon and over power the goons, a couple who were still groggy from the first fight.
Arianna could still feel Cole’s grasp growing tighter. She tried to concentrate on her breathing. Looking at her brother she tried to smile, but she knew he saw her face getting white.
”What’s happening Tarik…. what is he doing? Richard thought, but only receives two very strong waves of anger.
Frank reached in his pants pocket and pulled out a scarf, quickly wrapping it around Arianna’s eyes, while murmuring to her, “it will be Okay Princess …. Settle down.” He added a pat to her cheek while looking at Tarik, “do not move or do anything Amir, or she dies first. I promise you will see all the others die before you do. That goes for the rest of you also…”
The last thing Arianna saw was her brother’s face full of anger which he was directing at Cole. She was trying to quell the trapped feelings threatening to take over her whole being. It would not do any good to fight, but she was finding it hard to not try and resist.
Arianna had visibly jumped when Cole tied the scarf around her eyes. She was becoming ridged from trying you fight the shakes. Cole hoped the shivering was not all fear but at least a little anticipation was being added. He was having a hard time not bodily picking her up and carrying her into the storeroom so they could be alone.
Every mussel of every member at the table was ridged and ready to fight, if they could only move. Tarik was furious, but Cole had been told he would not break his word, so he was not worried about him stopping him. Cole also figured, Tarik knew he would not physically mark up Arianna’s beautiful skin. The emotional part, Tarik probably figured out he could help her with later. It was going to be a shock to him when Arianna screamed ….. and her screaming was a definite part of Cole’s plans.
Franco and Neo had not moved. Richard was making minor struggles on the pole, but he could not get loose and would only hurt himself more… which would keep Tarik busier, trying to heal him.
The hope Neo had about overpowering the others just went out the window. Cole’
S plans included Arianna which meant the combined power of the two Medjai was not available. If Arianna was in danger, Tarik would be useless.
To the goons in the room he said, “Antonio is now second in command. He is allowed to drink as much Jack as he wants, but he is not allowed to either add vodka to the drink or drink vodka straight up. Am I understood? This is an order from me which cannot be countermanded,” Frank looked at Chameleon and smiled, because he realized the man was thinking of grabbing some vodka as soon as he left the room. All he received was a frown and a shrug.
Well they had one thing in their favor, Franco realized. Jack Daniels would bring out Chameleon and as long as they could keep the vodka out of it he would not have the killing instinct. The man would be realized and still want to inflict pain but not want to kill someone.
Neo was glad to see a little color come back into his brother’s face. Franco had picked up on the meaning of not letting Chameleon have vodka. His brother was thinking.
Richard tried desperately to turn around, but only made the cuts in his wrists from the bonds, deeper and start to bleed.
Pointing to one of the goons he motioned for him to stand at the end of the bar near the store room door as an alarm signal.
Cole also motioned the man just inside the storeroom to stand outside the room a little off to the side closest to the hallway. With all the others watching and two near the door, Cole knew no one could try anything and succeed. “Antonio, remember what I said earlier.” His one worry was the Chameleon would kill someone and Cole still needed all of them at the moment to be able to react with each other hopefully helping his cause along faster. The idea was to get each of them to feed off of the others fear, thus making that fear larger, because the whole was always greater than the parts. Fear Cole could use to great advantage.
To Franco, Tarik, Neo and Richard he said, “The Princess and I are going to have a private conversation and Antonio, who you all realize is different, is going to keep an eye on you. Oh and Tarik, use the blood-magic of yours and your sister will feel the first sting of my knife. This should not take long.”
Out of the corner of his eye, Richard saw one of the goons walk from one end of the bar toward the other, where the storeroom was. “You leave her alone, Cole.” Richard said as he again tried to get loose. “I will kill you for this…. that is a promise ….. you leave her alone.” Richard felt a hard hit to his lower back. It could only have come from Chameleon. He put his head against the pole and more to himself than anyone else said, “it will be alright… Ari will be alright ….”, but he was not succeeding on convincing himself. In his mind he yelled, “Tarik, I thought you said you were going to protect her …. Do something, please but after the last words were out he almost fell against the post in exhaustion, saying in his mind. “Sorry, Tarik, I know you cannot do anything… its just well….” but he let the last of his thoughts fade away.
In his mind Richard heard, “Fear not my brother I always keep my promise, always.”
Richard took in a deep breath, there was only one way for Tarik to keep his promise to protect Arianna, he had to tap his Blood-Magic at least to the point of trying to control Cole. He hoped Neo and Franco realized what was about to happen …. This was going to be a bumpy ride.
After Chameleon had hit Greene in the same spot Cole had hit him in, he turned and looked at Cole. There was nothing Cole could do but smile and nod. He had shown Chameleon what to do and the man was just copying his move because he thought it was proper. Cole would have to remember and be careful what he did in front of Chameleon, so he could explain not to do it or that it was alright. Khalid had offered Chameleon and his other personalities as a trainee for him, but Cole at the moment was against it. Chameleon was still too much of an unknown factor and he was not sure he wanted to take the time to train him how to act. Besides he would also have to figure out how to control the other personalities and that would be very time consuming. The other goons Khalid offered were already Echelon trained and would only need to learn how Cole wanted things done.
Everyone at the table froze. Cole was splitting them up. If he took Arianna out of the room they would not know what was happening to her. Franco looked at Tarik …. This was not a good thing. Then his eyes went to his brother and finally to the blindfolded Arianna. He tried to fight his body’s reactions…. But all he succeeded in doing was making them tighter and rigid enough to start biting into his arms. When they had gotten tight to the point he could not catch his breath, he mentally forced himself to be still. As he waited the bonds started to loosen enough so he could breath.
Neo, in a voice which held a small amount of panic, said to his brother, “Franco relax!” He let out a breath he did not realize he was holding when he saw his brother had heard him, and had stopped fighting the bonds.
Frank picked Arianna up out of the chair by her shoulders and put his left arm around her shoulders, holding his Bouie knife at her heart with his right hand. “Be good everyone, be back soon, come on princess you and I are going to have a very private talk.” Frank chuckled out loud as he led a very stiff Arianna toward the store room.
Neo watched as Cole stood Arianna up and put his arm around her shoulder. The woman was not visibly shaking but her body was still letting him know she was fighting hard not to give into panic she was feeling.
Ari became stiff. She was finding it difficult to even but one foot in front of the other. Cole was taking her somewhere. As they passed his chair he whispered, “Hold on Princess,” ducking his head so Cole’s swing of the hilt of his knife only connected with the top of his head. It was slight enough Neo was able to shake off any of the effects.
Through her fear partially enveloped brain, Ari heard Neo’s words. She also felt Cole swing with his other hand and hoped he had not hurt anyone. If she was close to Neo that meant she was close to Tarik, she whispered, “Tarik, I love you brother…” but it was all she could get out before Cole force her forward.
Cole was taking her somewhere. Since they did not climb the stairs and the walk was a short one, she must be in the store room.
Franco held hands closed fist-ed down at his side and tried to follow Cole and Arianna’s progress to the store room.
“You are a very strong person, Princess,” Cole whispered in her ear, loud enough for only her to hear. “I promise you will come out of this alive. I only want to add some more fear to the men. They all care for you as I do. So be good and this will be over soon. I promise. You know if you allow yourself some freedom you may just enjoy this….”
Frank never looked back, but the man by the storeroom door had raised his wand as if threatened and he heard some movement of the chairs. Someone was fighting their restraints. Frank only took a firmer hold on Arianna’s arm. They entered the storeroom and he closed the door. He used his wand and called one of the chairs over to the middle of the floor and sat Arianna carefully down in it.
Arianna jumped when she heard the door shut. She was alone now. She swallowed hard and almost lost her balance when Cole sat her down on a chair.
Everyone’s focus was now on the door to the store rom. Richard could not see Tarik, but although he had not broken his healing powers from him …. A stronger emotion was welling up inside of the Magi. Richard knew what it was …. It was Tarik’s blood-magic.
“Shhh, Princess …. You are going to be fine.” Cole was holding tight to his own emotions. The woman was beautiful even in the dimness of the storeroom. He did not want to turn on the lights so he lit three candles and the light on the end of his wand which he balanced on the floor just behind Arianna’s chair.
When they had just gotten out of his field of vision he tried to move the chair around so he could keep watching them. That was a mistake because he received a blow of chameleon’s fist on his chin and his chair was turned back toward the table. Franco moved his jaw to make sure it was not broken and then stared at Chameleon saying, “Was that suppose to hurt? Kat hits harder!” Chameleon raised his fist to hit him again then stopped and motioned for one of the other men to come and hit him. The second hit sent Franco’s head snapping around to his shoulder.
Chameleon had started to hit Franco a second time, but remembered Frank Cole’s words that he was not one of the underlings and should tell the others what to do. He looked around and smiled when he saw one of the goons, who looked like they lifted weights … Called him over and told him to hit Franco as hard as he could in the jaw. The man had smiled, carried out his orders and even nodded his head when Chameleon had added a thank you for his services. Frank Cole was smart.
By the time he could focus his eyes again Franco realized Cole and Arianna had disappeared into the store room.
Arianna was scared and feeling weak, but she was determined not to give into the fright. She was totally helpless. Her eyes were blindfolded so she could not concentrate on even a wandless spell. She dared not tap into her Blood-magic because the others were being guarded and there was a chance a spell would not take out everyone. So she sat in the chair, swallowed hard and in a normal of a voice as she could manage, said, “You do not have to blind fold me Frank. I will give you my word I will not try and escape …” Ari could not even have convinced herself it was her natural voice.
“I cannot remove your blind fold Princess sorry.” Frank rearranged the magic bindings so Ari was bound to the back of the straight backed chair. He also bound her ankles together and then to the center rung of the under part of the chair. Kneeling down in front of her he took her face in his hands and rubbed her cheeks with his thumbs. “Princess, the men out there are being very stubborn, so we need to see if we can loosen their tongues in another way. You and I are going to play a little game.”
“I will play no games with you Frank Cole. I will give you no information and you will not force me to have them give you information.” Ari tried to sound more determined not to help than she felt.
“Ah, Princess, I think you will help.” Taking his hands away from her face, he sat back on his heels and looked at her. She was beautiful …. She was stubborn …. She was vulnerable whether she wanted to admit it or not …. She would be a fantastic partner for anything he desired … Controlling her would be an adventure … but not one which scared Frank. He had been raised that in order for a woman to really care about you, you had to be domineering and she had to be a little afraid of you …. This way she would come when you called and help you in anything you wanted to do. Frank licked his lips thinking “This woman would be perfect for me.”
Arianna sat listening, but the only sound she could hear were words being spoken outside of the storeroom and Franks breathing. Franks next move caused her to shiver violently.
“You know Princess, I am not such a bad guy … my line of work may seem a little strenuous, but I can help you with your work.” Cole wondered if maybe he could talk Arianna over to his side. From the expression on her face he realized, his father had been correct. A certain amount of force was always needed. The others had been wrong, when they told him gentleness was the best way. He would use gentleness but later, when she realized she cared for him.
Frank went back on his knees and reached down picking up the hem of Arianna’s long skirt. Carefully he folded it up in an accordion pattern just above her knees. “You have beautiful legs and knees Princess.” He took his hands and starting at her ankles, gently rubbing up her legs until he reached her knees where he stopped. Resting his hands on her knees he allowed his fingers to just barely travel under the folds of her skirt.
Arianna was shaking …. She could not tell whether it was from fright or being furious … probably a mixture of the too. She tried to wiggle out of his grasp, but she could not move her legs and the chair was secure on all four of its legs. Before she realized what she was saying she asked, “What do you want?”
It took Cole a moment to come out of his daydreaming fantasy. He could feel her continue to shake and hoped it was anticipation on her part. He knew she was still frightened …. But that was normal; most people were frightened of what was hidden in the future from them. She would be fine as he showed her how much he cared, by not marking her skin.
Frank smiled. “Now that is a good question, Princess,” he said as he continued to rub her knees and the skin, at the edge of her skirt. “I want you to do one simple thing; I want you to scream as loud as you can. …. If you cannot bring yourself to scream I want you to say “No stop.” At the top of your lungs and sound like you really want me to stop. I want the men out there to think I am mistreating you.”
“Princess, I really wish you would see reason. I do not want you to give me the Codebook… I would not do that to you, but I do need to convince one of the men in the other room to give it to me. They can also tell me who writes it, and I will promise you here and now, I will not agree to kill the person, no matter how many Gold Galleons I am offered. So be reasonable.” Cole watched
The only thing Arianna could think of doing was violently shaking her head no.
Frank allowed his fingers to travel a couple more inches under the hem of the dress. “Come on princess do not make me hurt one of them.” But he still received a no answer. “I am sorry you cannot see reason.”
As Frank got up Arianna cringed thinking she was about to be beaten, but the hit never came. All she heard was him walking to the door of the storeroom and opening it. Then she heard words which sent more chills through her body.
Frank went to the door, opened it and said to Chameleon, “Chameleon do you know the Muggle game of tic-tac-toe?” When he received a nod, he said, “Have two of the men get ready to play.”
The men at the table could only look at each other. They had not heard a sound after Cole had disappeared into the storeroom. Now Cole was asking about muggle games. They watched as Chameleon pointed to two of the men and had them stand near him, and then he looked back toward the door.
Neo and Tarik looked at the door because Cole had not closed it. Franco watched his brother’s face because he would have to try and turn around again to see the door.
Richard started breathing deeply, At this point he was not sure how much help Tarik was going to be in fighting pain, and by the look on Chameleon’s face and what they could see of the other two goons, he was about to be in a great deal of pain.
The woman was loyal to her friends and he did feel a bit of remorse he had to hurt people she cared about, but he needed to complete his job. If he could not work then he would not be able to treat her to special things in the world. Maybe he would be kind and give her one more chance…..
Frank looked back into the room and said to Ari, “Well Princess are you ready to play our little game?” Arianna did not move, so Frank said to Chameleon, “You will please draw a tic-tac-toe board on the back of Richard there.”
Arianna took a gulp of a breath, as she heard Richard yell when the board was drawn on his back.
Franco was the first to turn toward Richard and watched in horror as Chameleon carved a tic-Tac-toe cross board into his back. He heard Richards’ scream and a tear dropped out of the outside corner of his eyes. Franco looked at his brother and saw the anguish which probable mirrored his face a long with pure anger, at the moment aimed at Chameleon because he was in his sight.
Richard could not help the scream which came out of his mouth. The cuts were deep, because Chameleon had made them, using all of his hatred for each stripe. He could feel Tarik trying to help, but not even he could fight the damage the cuts were making and try and get a hold on his Blood-magic.
Cole watched as Chameleon drew the tic-tac-toe board onto Greene’s back, using very deep cuts. He looked back into the storeroom. Then he looked at the table to see if anyone there would be willing to change the situation. All the faces were set in stone, against helping him. Oh well he could keep this up for a while …. It was their fault Greene was getting hurt.
“When I say the first man can take his try…” Looking again back into the room he asked, “Princess ready?” Frank shook his head as he saw Arianna had stubbornly clamped her lips together. Frank signaled Chameleon who pointed to one of the men to make a mark. Richard screamed.
Neo watched the storeroom door and could barely make out Cole standing just inside. He noticed Cole make a motion with his hand. Chameleon motioned to one of the men who stepped closer to Richard, broadly smiled and proceeded to carve and “X” in one of the boxes of the game board. Richard could not muffle the scream. Neo wished he could do wandless magic, because he would be loose his knives would be in his hands, and chameleon and a few others would find out about the fine art of carving before they died.
Richard was fighting to stay conscious, and was only partially succeeding. His head was spinning and he felt dizzy beyond belief. He knew his face was blanched, and his vision was blurred. All he could concentrate on was not fainting. The put his forehead again on the cool pole and tried to separate himself from the pain in his back.
Franco could not take his eyes off of Richard. He did not care what Chameleon did, he just said to his friend, “Hey Rich, at least you are getting a free tattoo! A nice one too! One day, maybe we can return the favor? Tat for Tat!” The man who had carved the “X” in Richards back turned around looked at Chameleon who nodded, and gave Franco another punch in the jaw. Franc’s vision blurred but he managed to stay conscious.
Richard tried desperately to smile so Franco could see it. All he managed was a slight upturn of the corners of his mouth. He also heard the punch Franco had taken on the jaw. Slowly he shook his head side to side trying to tell Franco to not do that again.
Cole leaned his back against the door jam. He had never seen such a tightly knit group of people. Looking at Arianna he wondered if she was the reason for the group holding together so tightly. They were definitely loyal to her but there was something else. They had honor and would not give it up. There were a few breaks in the armor but they were hard to find and would be harder to widen.
When he finished here he was going to do a good study on this group. He had a feeling it would be well worth his time and effort.
Frank looked back in the room and asked Arianna again if she would be willing to play their private little game. He received a nod of her head, so he closed the door and went back to kneel in front of her. Rubbing his hands slowly up and down her legs each time getting a bare quarter of an inch farther under the edge of her skirt, he said, “Well Princess what will it be, a yell or words,” Frank chuckled, stopping at her knees as he waited.
Arianna took a deep breath and tried unsuccessfully to fight the tears staring to fall from her eyes. Most of them were being caught by the blindfold but a couple made it down her cheek. Taking a deep breath, she screamed not once but twice.
Cole even fell back from the force of Arianna’s screams. They were from deep down inside of her. He picked himself back up and kneeled in front of her again. He patted her knees and kissed her cheek.
Frank smiled and reached up to wipe the stray tears from her cheek, “Now that was not too bad was it Princess. I am going to check and see if we have made any progress in the main room. You sit tight, I won’t be far.” Frank got back up and went to the door opening it barely an inch. What greeted his eyes was no quite what he expected but he had gotten results. Maybe one more scream or some words would do the trick.
Franco looked at the man and added the biggest smile he could with his swollen jaw. He almost received another punch, but before the man could deliver it, two blood-curdling scream came from the storeroom. Franco’s eyes shot not to his brother but to Tarik. Tarik’s eyes were closed. This is not what bothered Franco, it was the fact things were moving in the room. The Amir’s blood-magic was coming out.
Richard could feel Tarik losing control of his surroundings. The Magi was trying to contact Cole’s mind, which was causing his Blood-magic to multiply tenfold in its power. Richard was very worried. He even became more worried when he heard Franco.
“Tarik ….. Amir, Tarik,” Franco said a little louder with each name, but he was getting no response. Tarik’s eyes had popped open but he was not looking at anything…. his face was blank. Franco looked at his brother and said, “We need to get Cole out here now.” …. Then he turned to Chameleon and said, “You need to get your boss out here now, or soon there will be nothing left of this place.”
Trying to break through the haze of Tarik’s mind, Richard thought, “Tarik, Amir …. You are losing control…. Tarik you can do this… I know you can.” , but he was thinking it with more conviction than he felt. If it got much worse they were going to need Arianna to help him.
Chameleon hesitated but when he looked at the Amir’s face he became scared, all he could do was nod his head yes.
Franco could not see the storeroom door so he had not realized Cole had come to it to check. At the top of his lunges he yelled. “Cole get out here now. Tarik is slipping. Cole you hear me.”
Seeing Chameleon frozen in doubt on what to do. Richard added the best yell he could to Franco’s. “Cole, Chameleon is about to lose control out here. We need Arianna now, or this whole place could go up…. Do you hear me Cole?”
Cole cringed. With the first yell from the outer room, he felt a sharp stabbing in his head. He saw a flash before his eyes. He grabbed the door jam and forced himself to concentrate and send Tarik out of his mind. “No Amir ….. leave or I will hurt her bad …. Hear me Tarik ….. leave now.” he screamed in his thoughts.
Breathing hard he opened the door wider and saw men ducking from flying objects which were joining themselves to each other in no particular way. Tarik’s blood magic was out.
Cole had seen blood-magic once before, but the person was in full control and it had not lasted more than a few moments. This was different. He looked back in the storeroom and made a decision he hoped he did not regret later. The blood-magic had to be stopped and just knocking Tarik out would not stop it because the residual effect would still last for an unknown amount of time.
Quickly walking over to Arianna he took off her blindfold and undid the magical bindings, as he said, “Your brother tried to get into my head and has released his blood magic.” Grabbing her by the arm he pulled her out into the other room. “I know if I knock him out it will continue for a while…. I also know if I kill him it will stop with his last breath.” They had to duck several times from being hit by objects but they finally made it to Tarik’s chair. He roughly turned her toward him and said, “No tricks or Richard dies and I go after the children, understood?” Receiving a nod, he swung her back toward Tarik who was looking straight ahead with eyes which were not seeing, and added, “Stop him or I will kill him. You have 2 minutes maybe.”
Cole stepped back and motioned for Chameleon to put his wand at Richard’s head and waited.
Arianna looked at her brother. He was under deep. She turned his chair, took a deep cleansing breath, and carefully put her hands on each side of her brother’s head, palms on his cheeks and fingers spread wide toward the back of his head. Slowly she added a little pressure to her finger tips and said, in a bare whisper, “Tarik, it is Arianna, I am here and I am free….. Tarik it is Arianna, your sister, find my voice, I am here and I am free.” Arianna added a little more pressure.
Cole said “Well, can you reach him?”