Post by Admin on Aug 14, 2020 21:08:17 GMT
Payback Is Best Served Through Others (Closed) (Mysterious Isles)
KHALID ONARIS
Khalid had just been rescued with the help of all people, Tal’mac. He gave a sly smile to his Saygar T’bell as several elves followed him in to his home. Slowly he walked toward the man in the center of his den. His cold eyes fell on the young man bound as he said coldly to the two men standing behind the kneeling man, “Take him to my private playroom. His father thought he could hold and torture me...” He reached down and grabbed a fist full of the boy’s hair and yanked back as he continued, “You were very foolish coming into my cell without any guards Boy! Since your father had thought you expendable, why don’t we see if I can find you useful?”
After the boy was taken away, Khalid’s eyes went to his second guest and his eyes softened slightly. “Ah, Angel Potter.” Turning to his Head Elf T’Bell as he tried to regulate his voice, “Please make sure Angel has everything she needs. Although until I can insure her safety, I am afraid, Angel will be confine to the house. She is not a prisoner but an honored guest.” He turned a small smile toward the girl. She had been held prisoner where he had been. When his elves had shown up, he made sure they rescued the girl also. The Clan would be looking for her, so the safest place was right her on his island, until he could get in touch with others who could protect her. "Go now Angel and rest. The elves will get you anything you need. I will talk with you later and between us we will decide what would be best to do next."
As Angel was lead out of the room, Khalid sat in his favorite chair as his Saygar started to help calm him. He smiled as he said, “It won’t save that boy from my wrath or Frank Cole’s. Get a hold of your son Ra’bell, and inform him to have Fixer brought up to speed. Matthew MacIntosh had his brother try and brainwash Fixer, He will pay for what The Enforcer did to Frank Cole. I plan on making Matthew pay dearly and his own son Jonathan will be the first to feel my wrath.” Khalid was still smiling as he fell asleep
FRANK COLE
It was 9:00 am, and Frank Cole found himself standing on the receiving deck of Khalid Onaris private island. He showed the officer on duty his letter from his father-in-law, requesting he come to the island and was told Khalid was at the house. He wasn't going to assume anything at this point. Since T'Bell and his sons were not there to meet him he would guess Khalid was still being watched. When the four elves were watching him they could keep him calm and away from the idea of destroying the world. Cole waved at a few of the men he passed on the path to the main house. He had been hoping to meet Khalid in his private garden area, where the man was at ease.
He was glad Angel Potter had been rescued. She would not be on the island long. As soon as arrangements could be made to get her safely to the mainland with friends, she would be able to go home. Jonathan MacIntosh was another story. The boy, who was actually a man now, was actually a McChey. Matthew MacIntosh, the Chieftain of the MacIntosh Clan, had adopted the boy when his mother mysteriously disappeared. The boy was raised by the Clan of Werewolves, but Cole knew he had not been turned. He was probably be held as future insurance for the McChey family, which included Sasha McChey, Head Mistress of Hogwarts. Cole knew Sasha had no idea she and her sister even had a brother. Cole hoped he was still alive. Khalid had hinted at the fact Jonathan was going to be used to exert revenge on Matthew MacIntosh for the painful try at brainwashing the man had his oldest son put Cole through.
As Cole reached the door, he was waved in by one of the two guards. Entering the sitting room T'Ball Khalid's head elf, stood beside the chair where Khalid sat. The elf waved Cole to one of the overstuffed chairs across from the chair where Khalid had slept the night before.
Khalid smiled as he said, "Welcome Frank, want to deal with our guest? Or do you want to deal with business before pleasure?"
Cole picked up the glass of iced tea, T'Bell had placed on the small side table next to his chair and took a sip. Khalid was calm but that could change in a blink of an eye. Slowly putting the glass back on the table, Cole leaned back in the chair and crossed his legs. Lying his arms on the arms of the chair he said, "Let's take care of business first?"
Khalid gave a sly grin as he said, "Very Well. Miss Angelina Potter is in her room reading I believe. So how are things coming with the first assignment I gave you? Let's start with my thorn, did you convince him that fighting us was a very bad move on his part?"
Cole steepled his fingers in front of him for a few moments before answering. Franco Spellman had been to the Isle of Perdition, Cole's private island, a few times but he only wanted to give Khalid some information. "Franco Spellman is under control. He has agreed to give me editor rights on any story about you, the Clan or the Dark Sect. I'm not saying some things will still not get out, because if the paper all of a sudden starts printing good stories about you and the others, it will lose its credibility. When we want something printed with a tilt to it, it will not be believed. I can filter some of it or have the story buried where most people will not read it. I can get him to the island at my leisure also, no questions asked."
Khalid nodded then asked, "Frank, Matthew has every intention of controlling those Spellman especially Franco and Neo, I want to know why. Maybe our guest can tell us what is so special about those two?"
Cole wanted to keep Khalid from questioning Jonathan as long as possible. He had to think of a way to get the man loose or to have him not be tortured within a inch of his life. He had not decided if he should tell Khalid, Jonathan is really a McChey. At the moment he was not sure how Khalid would take that news, since one of the people on his list had been Sasha McChey. "Franco has the ability to control the strengths of objects. Could be useful in the future for you, if you needed to get through doors or walls." Cole had to watch his words because the possibility existed Khalid's mind would be read by someone before it could be blocked again. "As far as Neo is concerned, I actually have him as a member of my army at the moment. He has just about completed, Specialist training. This will make it easier to control him, because he is being indocternated into the necessity of following my orders."
Khalid gave a sly grin at this news. His master the Dark One would be very pleased. He closed his eyes and thought to his master, "See Master, Fixer is doing as you requested." The pain in his head decreased slightly as The Dark One said, "We shall see Dark Medjai. Continue with the report and we shall see if Zia is telling me the truth about you and this Fixer." Khalid cringed but opened his eyes as he asked, "Frank, continue your report! Though the Dark One is pleased so far with your work." Khalid just had to pray the Master continued to be pleased for all their sakes.
Cole nodded. He thought to himself, "I was right, Khalid is in contact with the Dark One at the present time. I will have to watch my words carefully." "As far as the other Spellman's, Marco calls me Sir when he is on the island and understands if we meet off the island he will not challenge me. I am still working on contacting Leo Spellman. Brennan has been doing profiling for me on a regular basis. He doesn't like it of course but he is not too hard to control. Oh, and I have been able to get William Wright to back off trying to find his sister."
Khalid smiled but only said, "Leo Spellman can be found at the Ministry. He heads the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts there. Continue, what about my foolish brother Tarik? Has he changed his mind yet? Or Maxwell Sinclair?"
"Maxwell Sinclair understands what is going on and what is expected of him. I can also get him back to the island if I need to shall we say strengthen the bond between what will be required of him later." Maxwell knew that Cole had to pretend he was working for the Dark Sect and he also knew that he would play a very big part in taking down the Dark One in the future. "Tarik has been to my island one time and we came to a partial understanding. I have allowed him time to think of what he needs to do to insure the safety of his family." Cole paused and took another drink of his iced tea. "In fact, Tarik and Brennan will be returning to my island tomarrow sometime late in the afternoon."
Khalid grinned as he thought of finally being able to chat with his baby brother. He turned to T'Bell and winked as he said, "Bring them straight here as I believe it is time to remind my baby brother just who runs this family!" He had given T'Bell special meanings for different signals and a wink meant tomorrow the Dark One would only hear what they wanted the entity to hear.
Cole sat up a little straighter and would have said something if Ra'bell, T'Bell's sireling had not walked in front of him and motioned for him to not talk. The elf leaned in closer, as if he was refilling Cole's glass and explained, "It is all right Master Frank, Master Khalid has just signaled my Sire that we will be going to the gardens when the others get here." Cole nodded. He still was not happy that Tarik and Brennan would be brought to the island with no preparation on what was going to happen. Brennan especially would have to be watched closely. The young Hit Wizard acted before he thought of the consequences. Cole decided to error on the side of prudence and added to Khalid's orders. "Make sure you bring the two of them bound, T'bell so there will be no miss understandings." Cole received a slight bow from the elf. Then he turned back to Khalid to see what was next on the agenda.
Khalid nodded and then said, "So what about the others on your list any problems?"
"The rest I have not gotten to yet. I am working with the children, bringing them along slowly so they do not know what is happening. I have found if you push children, especially the group we are concerned with, they will either dig in their heels and flatly refuse or they will run and you will never be able to convince them you know what is best for them. I don't want them afraid of me, because they will work harder and faster if they think they are helping friends." Cole needed to get Angel off the island so he added, "If you will permit me Khalid, I would like to take Angel to my island and use her to draw Leo Potter there. I think she would make an excellent lure for Gab and Natalie Lupin also. It could speed thing up a bit." Cole knew if he could get the newspaper owner to his island, he could find some excuse to get her back to the mainland.
Khalid nodded and winked but asked, "You should be half way through the list by now Fixer, You stalling? If Potter gets to my baby brother before we can convince the man to be careful of his words..." Khalid head was hurting and he really wanted Matthew's son to feel his pain. Preparing to stand as he said with venom in his tone, "Maybe it is time to send our message to Matthew? That werewolf had his brother try and turn you against me. The MacIntosh Clan needs a lesson in what happens when somebody gets to thinking they can betray the Dark One..." His master wanted the boy Jonathan to suffer but Khalid was unsure just how to make the young man live through the rage that Khalid was feeling.
The agitation Khalid was feeling was pouring from his body. When he stood so did Cole. He knew Khalid had said what he did about the list, so that it would look like he was unhappy with the progress Cole was making, to anyone outside the room who was listening. If Khalid started in on Jonathan in the mood he was in the man would be in a lot of pain quickly. Damage could be done that would take major medical recourses to correct. Khalid had an excellent Med Unit on his island, but might not want it generally known where Jonathan was. As they walked out of the room and headed for the stairs, Cole suggested, "I need some practice Khalid, how about letting me have a go at getting information from the man. I also think we should wait for some type of answer before we do any major questioning."
Khalid nodded but said, "Fixer, Jonathan is the message or I should say his body is! Unless you think the boy is more use alive? I have permission to make the boy suffer then send his body back to Matthew along with Markus' two sons bodies. The Dark One is tired of the MacIntosh Clan thinking that they can play him for a fool. A Lesson must be given and the boy foolishly walked into my cell without any guards as the elves were freeing me. So the boy's death or him suffering for as long as he lives which in my mood might be two hours? Unless you can think of a better way to send the Dark One's message and get payback for what we went through?"
Since Jonathan was really a McChey, and was most likely being held by Matthew MacIntosh as insurance against Sasha McChey or even some of the Caretakers doing anything, just keep the boy from the MacIntosh Clan would be a way of hurting the Chieftain and the Clan. But Khalid could also use the boy for his own purposes and in Khalid's present mood that could mean major dungeon time for the boy. "Thank you for taking care of the two goons They enjoyed their work. I do hope you showed them how I felt under their thumbs." As they reached the play room Cole said, "Would you consider me also taking Jonathan to my island. I have a good set up and have been able to get very good results with some of my own toys."
The old Dark Medjai shrugged as he said, "I did not kill them. Zia's puppets did. The Dark One chose to send their bodies here to prove he is not being fooled by Markus MacIntosh." He got worried that Fixer would feel he owed Zia and that was one witch that Khalid wanted none of his family a puppet of Zia's. Khalid got a sly smile as he misunderstood Fixer's reasons for wanting the boy, "Of course son, play all you want. Turning him? I think he is too loyal to his father but if he could be..."
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread.)
JONATHAN MACINTOSH
As they entered the Play room , Cole inwardly congratulated himself. He was not going to be able to take Angel Potter and Jonathan MacIntosh back to his island. Angel he would get sent right away, Jonathan he was going to just have to keep alive for a bit. Cole tried successfully to hold in the cringe he always felt entering this room.
The Playroom was tastefully decorated in yellows and gold's. Flowing lacey curtains covered the windows allowing for a partial view of the small terraces outside of each of the floor to ceiling window casings. Several overstuffed chairs sat at one end of the room. A small table sat between them and a coffee table sat in front. On the wall behind the chairs, hung a 72" screen and golden speakers which would allow for great surround sound dotted the walls completely around the room. A rich brown and gold rug covered the floor on the end of the room where the chairs were.
The surprising part of the room was the other end. The floor was hard wood which you could see a clear reflection in. There were chains fasted to several places on the floor with large bolts. There were also chains fastened to the walls and extending down from the ceiling. At the end of each chain was a solid leather strap. On the wall was an open shelving unit with beautifully hand carved molding. These shelves held, canes, whips, and cattle prods. There were handcuffs and a variety of straps.
Jonathan was marched in behind them in chains. Two of Khalid's men shackled the man to the back wall face out. Because of the bruises on his face, and the spattering of blood on his shirt, Cole knew he had taken at least on beating already. A couple of the bruises had already started to turn yellow and green so they were older and healing.
Jonathan looked to be about late 30's or early 40's. He probably stood about 5’10” and weighed around a hundred and 60 or so pounds. One of his blue eyes was almost swollen shut. His short dark wavy hair was plastered to his head due to dampness. With his clothes also being wet, especially his shirt, he most likely had a bucket of water thrown on him at one point to revive him. He had the upper body strength to take the beating he had already endured, shown by the tears and missing buttons in his shirt.
Cole looked at Khalid for permission to start the interrogation.
Khalid saw T'bell moving a statue from behind a curtain and placing it on the coffee table without the Dark One even realizing it had moved. Khalid's mind was trying to block his knowledge of it being there. It was time to see if his new found writing skills were getting better. The Dark Medjai absently wrote on a napkin, "Thoth" then eyed Fixer and prayed his son-in-law was quick at puzzles.
Cole looked at the napkin and smiled as he tried to figure out what Khalid was trying to tell him. The Crystal statue was old and looked like it had been hand fired. Thoth was the ancient god of wisdom, and magic. He would listen to battles and people and decide… Cole's smile became bigger. The statue was a listening device of … it had to be the Dark One, because it had been hidden behind the curtain where a small metal box was hidden. The box would have prevented and sound from reaching the statue. Cole nodded. Khalid was telling him the Dark One was listening and probable watching. Cole signaled Ra'bell to stand in front of the statue, at least they would only have to worry about him listening. Cole again looked at Khalid for permission to start.
Khalid smiled as he got up and went over to Fixer. Once there he asked, "So have you thought of the best way to punish him for what his father ordered done? I would hate for the MacIntosh Clan to think they can do this and get away with it. Dark One wants a message sent but I am unsure if this boy can live long enough to make him suffer to the degree that is needed. You are a Fixer, any ideas on how to achieve both?"
Jonathan shook his head, and tested the shackles on his hands and feet, as he said, "If you think he will be affected by my death, you don't know Matthew!" He had not called his father, "father" in a long time. He firmed his spine and stood as brave as he could as he said with as much strength to his voice as he could gather, "He would just laugh at your stupidity and continue business as usual." His father had always thought him to weak to be a true part of the Clan and deep inside Jon was glad his werewolf was deemed unworthy of being activated. He wanted to heal not kill and had been searching for a cure which infuriated his father to no end.
Cole walked up to the man hanging on the wall and slapped him lightly on the face. "We are not planning on killing you, at least not just yet. There is some information some friends of mine wish before you will be allowed to not be in pain anymore." Cole pulled back his fist and hit Jon squarely in the stomach, making sure he did not hit his kidneys. As the man doubled over as far as the shackles would allow, Cole grabbed his hair and slammed his head back against the wall, making sure his hand was between the man's head and the wall. It would sound a lot worse than it had been. Cole's hand hurt, but that would help to show anger at the shackled man. Holding Jon's head against the wall he said, very close to the man's ear. "I am going to hurt you. I am not going to kill you, put I must put on a show of sorts. Keep your mouth shut and don't give any information out." Cole then stepped back and gave Jon another jab to the stomach and a right cross to the face.
Stepping farther back, Cole stretched and said, "There that should warm things up a bit. What information do you want Khalid?"
Khalid shook his head and went to sit back down in his favorite chair. He signaled T'Bell to bring him something to drink. The pain in his head increased. He hated this boy's family and showed it as he said, "Well I am interested in what Matthew's interest in the reporter and cooler is? Though how is this helping solve the message to Matthew problem? Fixer, that Clan thought it could make us turn against each other and more importantly, Markus MacIntosh under orders from this boy's father dared to torture you in hopes of turning you into their puppet while acting as if the Master sent him. Dark One is not happy with this Clan's poor attempt at power and neither am I!" His eyes glared at Jonathan as he said, "If killing him is not your plan than just how is Matthew going to receive The Master's message? And Fixer, you still have not answered just what other use is this CUB?"
Cole looked out the window for a moment. "From what I have been able to find out about the MacIntosh Clan, just having Jonathan here, where the Clan cannot find out what information is being given would send a strong message to the Clan. Sometimes Khalid killing is not the only answer as I am sure the Dark One knows. Sometimes just keeping information from the intended victum is far worse. They have no idea what to plan for." Turning back to Jon he said, "Now it seems your family has taken an interest in Franco and Neo Spellman. Why don't you tell us what that interest is MacIntosh."
Jonathan cringed as he finally recognized the man torturing him, "I know you!" He had helped the man by providing some pills to counter some drugs in the man's system. He was about to remind the Fixer when he remembered the man's words. Jonathan had no idea what Fixer's game was but if it kept the Dark Medjai from getting his wish, Jon was more than willing to play this Frank Cole's way. He shook his head as he said, "I am telling The Dark Medjai nothing! As for you, Fixer..." He hoped this would not get him killed as he spit in the man's face continuing, "Go back to your island and stay there as Matthew is far from done with you!"
Accepting the cloth from Ra'Bell, Cole wiped the spit from his face. For a moment he just stared at the man on the wall. Glancing at Khalid he saw an expression that told him he need to react strongly to what just happened. Cole turned to Ra'Bell and said, "Turn him around and remove his shirt. I want the restrains tightened so he is tightly held in a spread eagle." As this was being done, Cole walked over to the shelving unit and looked at the offerings. Finally he chose a single tail whip and walked back to behind Jon. Cole cracked the whip a couple of times to get the proper distance from his target. He planned on putting welts on Jon's back, but with any luck he would not seriously break the man's skin. All the practice with some of the Specialist was about to come in very handy. "I was willing to start slow with you, but I will not take spit in the face, from a no nothing like you. Feel my wrath." When the last word came out, Cole sent the tip of the whip across Jon's back. Without waiting, he added four more stripes. Cole walked up close to Jon and said so only the man could hear, "Good move, but you forced me to add more pain than I was planning."
Jonathan screamed as the whip hit it's mark. He had asked for this as he had watched the Fixer on the other island. The young man was not worried through as he knew this punishment could have been a lot worse.
Cole turned and walked toward where Khalid was sitting."I enjoy a whip but this room is not big enough to use it properly." Cole threw the whip on the coffee table as if he was discussed. The whip slid across the table and knocked the Crystal statue to the floor and against the leg of Khalid's chair. When both men looked down, the Crystal statue lay in about twenty pieces. Cole smiled. "I sure am sorry that happened Khalid. I will of course replace it or give you what it is worth." Cole knew the Dark One could not see and hear what they were saying. If the elves could block Khalid's mind effectively, then they had some breathing room.
Khalid frowned as he saw the statue break saying, "I did not even know it was back there. I will see if I have a replacement, Fixer while you play some more." He prayed the Dark One believed it had been an accident and that Khalid was leaving the room.
Slowly Cole walked back to where Jon was hanging on the wall. He looked at the strips he had created and then walked to a small cabinet imbedded in the wall. Taking out some lotion and a small soft cloth, Cole walked back to the man and rubbed the lotion on Jon's back. He heard the intake of breath as he hit some of the sore spots, but this had to be done. When he was finished, he said to Ra'bell, "Take him down and let him sit in the chair." To Jon he said, "Do not fight me on this, or I will leave you where you are."
Jonathan had started to fight but stopped as he heard Fixer. Whispering he said, "Left pocket of my robe, pill that might help him? Clarity, vitamin. reason I went to his cell."
(OOC: Jonathan is an administration character used to further the story. This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread.)
KHALID
Cole only stared for a few moments as Ra'bell was taking Jon down. Looking around he saw a pile of clothes on a nearby shelf. The elves had folded everything neatly. Taking the robe and starting to check the pockets, Cole came across a small piece of tissue. Unwrapping its contents he found two small yellow pills. Khalid who had not left, but was sitting in his chair, his mind blocked by the T'Bell and Ra'bell, looked at Jon who had been put in the other chair near the coffee table. Only a small round pedestal table separated the two men. Cole walked up and showed Jon the pills then walked to Khalid and held them out. "He really did help with meds on my island. Lance sent him with the drugs to help. I personally think we can trust him in this. I am only getting positive reading where the medication is concerned."
Khalid only stared at the young man. He was about to shake his head and refuse the vitamin, but Cole had never lied to him. He whispered, "But Frank, the Dark One might still be able to sense the change in me? Plus why should I trust any MacIntosh especially Matthew's son?"
Jon just sadly shook his head, as he sat forward in the chair with his elbows on his knees, to take pressure off his back. Whispering, as the others were doing for some reason, he said, "Maybe for the same reason I would trust any related to you? I am not my father just as Lance and Frank are nothing like you! Take the pill or don't, I care not..." He hated seeing the old man suffer even if Khalid was as dark as most of Matthew's family.
Cole closed his hand and placed the pills in his slacks pocket. "You may have a point, Khalid. We shall save them until later when we go to your garden area, which I hope will be soon." Turning more to Jon he said, "You will stay free as long as you do not give me any problem. You have been turned over to my care. Soon you will be sent to my island, where you will be further questioned." Cole couldn't tell Jon, most of what was going to happen on the Isle of Perdition was going to concern de-programming. It had been a few years since Cole had been involved with any deep de-programming, so it was definitely going to be interesting.
Khalid shrugged. He said still afraid of unknowingly breaking his vow with the Dark One, "I was not always like this but thanks to Your Family Boy, I have my own kin hunting me!" For some unknown reason the Dark Medjai feared this boy. He wondered if it was because of the boy's friendship with his great nephew Lance.
Jonathan shook his head as he said, "No Dark Medjai, you fear me because I am a healer and you have no idea what I heal. Do you?" He got up and walked away from the men. The girl was being kept somewhere and Jon planned on finding her and getting the Quibbler Owner out of harm's way.
He said almost to himself, "I have no desire to be either of your informant so if you will excuse me," Jon gave a slight bow then continued, "as I have somebody I promised I would see safely with her family. Then I have other plans which don't include either of you." He had to find a werewolf that had been bitten recently or the next full moon, his friend Lance Kildare was toast, as Uncle Markus and his father hated the fact he had helped Fixer. The man bitten worked with Lance and it was his uncle's hope either Lance would be turned or die in an attack. He cringed as he understood his father's threat was directed towards his best friend.
Cole shook his head and went to stand in front of Jon. "I am afraid you are not leaving this room. Angel is fine. If you settle down and are reasonable, I may be persuaded to allow her to join us. At the moment I am waiting for word from her brother so when she is returned to the mainland she can be met and taken care of. So sit down so I don't have to restrain you."
Jon stopped and looked into Cole's eyes, as he said, "You took Leo Potter?" Slowly Jon backed away from Cole and sat back down. He had to try to get this man to just let Angel go. He was working hard to get Angel to realize that he, unlike the rest of his family, could be trusted to keep his word. "Please Frank, don't use her brother like you usually do."
Cole followed Jon over to his chair. Standing near it he crossed his arms across his chest and took a hard stance. "I have not captured Leo Potter." Cole looked at Khalid because both Leo and Angel were on his list that the dark one wanted brought around to a different way of thinking on where their loyalties laid, but now was not the time to have them talked to. Letting Angel return, unharmed by him, and allowing her brother Leo to meet her, would go a long way to getting both of them to his island at a later date. It might cut down on some of the time it would take to talk with them also. "I am waiting for my contact on the main land to get Leo to agree to arrive at a point in Diagon Alley so Angel can be sent home and met by someone who can protect her. That is all I need at the moment with both of them."
Khalid looked at Fixer as he listened shaking his head. He said bewildered, "But Fixer, are they not both on your list? Please do not have me questioning your loyalty in this matter."
Cole turned toward Khalid, but did not move his feet. "Yes they are on my list. Have you not given me the ability to take care of what I need to do in my own way? I have not forgotten what I need to do and the consequences of what I do not get accomplished."
Jon listened but only said, "Fixer please remember I am not staying here or going to your island Fixer as I have other things to tend to namely a recently bitten." He had a bad feeling that Fixer had no intention of freeing him.
Turning back to Jon he said, "You are going to my island Jon. I am afraid you have no choice in the matter. As far as the person who has just been bitten, give me the person's name and I will have him found, rounded up and you will be allowed to sever the bitten place." It was not hard for Cole to figure out why the doctor wanted to find the person who had just been bitten before the next full moon. If the bitten part of the body was cut away then it would not fester at the full moon phase and thus the person would not become a werewolf. It was an extreme method but it had been found to work one-hundred present of the time.
Jon sadly shook he head as he said, "I am sorry but I must seek this person alone. As for who, all I know is he works with Lance. I am sorry Fixer but I must refuse your invite."
Cole only shook his head saying, "I am also sorry Jon, but you have no choice in this matter. Angel will be sent to her brother as soon as he has made the arrangements to be at the Diagon Alley meeting spot and you will go to my island where I will have further conversations with you. Now…." Before Cole could continue an elf entered the room and whispered in Khalid's ear. Cole knew something important had happened because Khalid rose from his chair and walked toward him. The Dark Madjai wrote on a scrap of paper, Tarik and Brennan in garden area . Cole looked at him to confirm what he was reading then nodded and looked back at Jon, "I am afraid you must go sooner than I expected." Cole raised his hand, fingers opened then made a fist. Jon fell softly to the ground totally bound. Turning to Ra'bell who had bound Jon he said, "Send him to my island and let Punta know to hold him gently in one of the rooms. I will follow as soon as possible." The elf nodded and made Jon float in the air parallel to the floor.
Khalid nodded but was fearful of what Tarik actually believed about him. He watched as the MacIntosh Brat fought his fate. Laughing as he said, "You better never leave that island. You live as long as you are useful."The Dark Medjai winked at Fixer as he went out the door.
Cole made sure Jon was on his way. He paid no attention to the screams and empty threats the man was giving. Punta, his head elf on the Isle of Perdition would make sure the man was reasonably comfortable and secured in one of the interrogation rooms. Cole was hoping to get to his own island by the evening time. Shaking his head he followed Khalid out the door and down the back stairs, headed for the Garden Oasis Khalid had established for his own comfort and so a small area could be totally blocked from any outside knowledge or interference. Anyone trying to read Khalid would think he had just taken a nap.
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread)
TARIK SADIKI
The whole area was about 50 foot square and surrounded by a high hedge. Off to one side was a small garden containing date trees, several varieties of berry bushes, and vegetables with ripe fruit. In a back corner was a fountain, which seemed to flow out of the top of the four foot high piled rocks and cascaded into a clear pool of water. The grass was a velvet cushion, which added lightness to every step.
When Khalid smiled in his direction, he returned the smile, as he was led to a tent set just off center to the right. The tent was called a buryuut hqiar (literally meaning "house of hair" because the nomads normally built them out of goats hair). Most of the tents were black in color, but Khalid had opted to have color added to the outside. Cole figured he had used the colorful curtains, normally hung on the inside as outside walls. The whole structure measure about 20 feet by 20 feet and looked light as a feather. Khalid had kept the outside measurements. So many wizards had homes and other living areas where the outside was smaller than the inside. There were fantastic rugs covering every inch of the floor and pillows and cushions piled everywhere. The small table next to the back wall contained, several putter plates and crystal stemmed glasses.
As they entered through the hedge, Cole could hear Tarik's voice loudly ordering one of the elves to immediately release him. Cole smiled, because that was not going to happen quickly.
Khalid walked up to the tent opening and smiled. Both Tarik and Brennan had frozen where they stood just outside the flap. Their hands were tied behind their backs and Tarik's robes had been removed. The man stood in slacks and a white button shirt. Brennan had dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, apparently freeing himself up to be able to fight. Keeping the smile on his face he quietly said to Ce'bell, another one of T'bell's sons, "Take my baby brother inside. Take my nephew Brennan to the house."
Bren moved so he was between Khalid and Tarik. If he had known they were going to end up on the Dark Medjai's island he never would have agreed to let Tarik come. The Madjai had decided to arrive early and had told Brennan, it would help to keep Cole off balance. Brennan was furious and started fighting as he said, "I am not Your Nephew. Let uncle Tarik go now!"
Khalid shoved Brennan out of the way, into the waiting hands of Ce'bell saying with measured steel calmness in his voice, "Gag him!"
Tarik looked from his half-brother to Brennan then back to Khalid. He had not seen this man before except through some very grainy pictures. Tarik had been given the job to hunt Khalid down, by the Egyptian Magical Council, for the murder of his grandfather. Khalid had been 45 when his grandfather had been murdered and Tarik had only been a child. When Tarik returned from his Year of Knowledge he was eighteen years old and the council made it is life's mission to find Khalid and bring him in. That had been fifty plus years ago. Now he stood in front of the man and he was unsure what would happen next. Over the past couple of years the idea that Khalid committed the murder had been weakened by people and other happenings. As he looked at his half-brother he realized there was tiredness around the man's eyes, as if he had not slept soundly for a very long time. Standing straight and taking as relaxed stand as he could he shook his head as he said, "What Khalid, don't trust I won't take you down?"
Khalid just laughed as he said, "If I thought that you could, you would not have survived this long." Looking at Brennan, he said, "You will be taken to the house. If you go quietly you will be in comfort. Fight the idea and you will end up in one of my special rooms." Khalid waved Brennan away.
Cole had just stood off to the side and watched what was going to happen. Brennan had give him some looks that would have been very dangerous if they had been knives. Cole did not change the expression on his face. The best place for Brennan at the moment was the house. Khalid and Tarik needed to talk and Brennan would be constantly interfering. He watched, as the Hit Wizard was lead away. At least he would not end up in one of Khalid's acclimatized rooms, which were extremely uncomfortable.
Tarik was led into the tent and positioned on a couple of the cushions along the rear of the curtained off room facing the area just to the right of the front flap. Cole took a place on some cushions off to Tarik's left and Khalid settled in off to his right. Cole crossed his legs and leaned his elbows on his knees.
Ra'bell went to the tables along back and made up three plates of sandwiches and other tidbits, and poured three mugs of wine. These he carried and placed on the carpet in the center of where the three human's sat. Looking at Khalid, he silently asked if he should feed the stranger or release his hands so he could eat on his own.
Khalid waited until they were all in the tent. He looked at T'Bell as if to ask if it was safe. Then he said, "Brennan will be safe as will you baby brother. I can't afford the Dark One using the boy to listen. Frank, how is my baby brother's blocking ability? Could the Dark One read him?" He so wanted to just hug both his baby brother and Cassandra's adopted son Bren. It hurt that both hated him and feared him. Khalid's eye fell on Tarik and then turned to Frank Cole. He felt scared himself because he was unsure if Tarik would carry out the death order or would he hear him and Frank out. They were taking a huge risk and if it went south then the ones who would pay were the very ones Khalid made the vow to protect, his siblings.
Tarik listened and felt his brother's fear but not towards him. He looked at Fixer and prayed the man was not being used. Khalid's energy did not give off the dark energy that Tarik had expected. Tarik's eyes fell on a portrait and he smiled as he said, "Lili, I presume?"
Khalid looked at Fixer as he tried to decide just how his baby brother knew about Lili. He needed to be patient until he was cleansed by the elves. In the Garden Oasis, the Dark Sect and anyone else could not influence Khalid in his thoughts and his actions. The elves could bring him the calmness he needed to deal with his baby brother. Khalid nodded as he said, "If you think it is wise my friend release him?"
Cole steepled his fingers in front of him and looked at the Madjai. The elves were blocking all of the magic from them so Tarik would not be able to use any of his special blood or elfin magic. It was just easier for the elves to block any magic, then try and choose who was able to do what. Looking into Tarik's eyes, he tried to guage if it would be a mistake to realease Tarik. Deciding that it would show some trust and maybe defuse the situation a bit, Cole nodded at Ce'bell to release Tarik's hands, adding, "Do not make this a mistake on my part Amir."
Tarik nodded as he felt the bonds disappeared. He said, "I can answer my brother. Khalid, I doubt Fixer would have set this meet if he thought I was a danger to you. Khalid, why have you asked to talk if you don't trust me?"
Khalid nodded as he waited for T'bell to inform it was safe and his mind was once again on his true path.
T'Bell walked closer to Master Khalid and placed two fingers on the human's temple. Closing his eyes for a couple of heartbeats, he nodded and said quietly into Master Khalid's ear. "The cleansing is complete Master Khalid. The area is closed off to all human's except the three of you." T'bell bowed shallowly and then took two steps back. He would be monitoring the human.
Khalid nodded but still only said, "I don't trust me. You are an empathic Tarik." Khalid sadly shook his head as he looked at Frank Cole. His eyes showed his fear. Khalid was not scared that Tarik could take him and cause physical problems. He could not explain it. It was like Khalid was still that scared twelve year old. He wondered why he could not talk to Tarik. Khalid knew he was a disgrace to his family.
Cole looked at T'Bell and silently asked, why wasn’t Tarik, picking up more of how Khalid felt. Tarik was a highly skilled empath so even if he could not pick up internal words he should be picking up more of the emotional side. T'Bell nodded and stepping closer to Khalid, laid two fingers on the Khalid's temple, closed his eyes and nodded. When he opened them, he said, "Master Tarik, you will feel your brother. Know how he feels."
Cole looked at Tarik and said, "You are not here for anything concerning the Runes, Tarik. This is not the place or time. Your brother wanted to talk with you. Now open up to him and listen." Turning to Khalid he said, "Your brother is here to listen, Khalid. Tell him what you have been holding from him all these years." Cole unsteepled his fingers and folded his hands in front of him, still relaxing his elbows on his knees. After a moment he reached out and took one of the small sandwiches from the plate in front of him and picked up the wine mug. Either these two were going to start talking or he was going to have to separate them again. He needed to get back to his island.
Tarik shook his head as he said, "I chose not to use my gift. I have picked up a few things. Enough to know my brother is not ready yet." He was not going to force Khalid. He got up and walked up to Khalid. He whispered, "Did you know they would kill Mina? Or about Ali's murder?" Tarik got nothing except Khalid uncertainly.
Tarik smiled but only said, "That is alright Khalid one day you will be ready. just know you can still come home."
Tarik smiled as he felt the same rage he, himself had felt at each death. He turned to Fixer as he said, "I have my answer but Khalid some day you need to talk to Martin, Molly or Max. It will be helpful to heal from what the Dark Sect put you through. Even Tommy Andreas is talking with Max."
He got up as he said, "Fixer, I think it is time to let T'bell and his brothers help Khalid. Let's get Bren and head to your island." He knew his brother was ashamed of what he had done. He hugged his brother as he said, "You have nothing to be ashamed of. Khalid one day I will return but only when you are ready. Thank you big brother as now I understand Cassandra's vision. He smiled as he felt Khalid hug him back.
Khalid sadly shook his head but only said, "Maybe?"
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread)
FRANK COLE
Cole stood up and waited for Tarik to finish talking with his brother. Khalid had just lowered his head and would not even look at him or Tarik, he just stared at his hands. After all the man's demands to bring his brother to him, he had just folded and not asked any of the questions he wanted answered. Cole could only shake his head and motion Tarik to the flap in the tent. He was not sure what was going to happen on the Isle of Perdition, but he knew it would not be this calm. Tarik was going to have to learn how to deal with what Cole needed from him. Mainly control of his Blood Magic and to listen to what he had to say and believe what he had to say.
Looking at his watch, he realized it was late in the afternoon. Several things had to be done before he could relax for the night. Tarik and Brennan would have to return to Hogwarts this evening so tomorrow could be set aside to handle Jon. Punta would have to get a message to Lance Kildare that he was needed on the island and include a safe pass. Cole knew Lance would come when Jon's name was mentioned but he wanted to sweeten the pot a little. He was going to need Lance's help.
Turning back to Khalid one more time before exiting the tent behind Tarik, who was preceded by T'Bell, Cole only shook his head at the sad man sitting on the cushions.
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you have enjoyed the thread."
CLOSED
KHALID ONARIS
Khalid had just been rescued with the help of all people, Tal’mac. He gave a sly smile to his Saygar T’bell as several elves followed him in to his home. Slowly he walked toward the man in the center of his den. His cold eyes fell on the young man bound as he said coldly to the two men standing behind the kneeling man, “Take him to my private playroom. His father thought he could hold and torture me...” He reached down and grabbed a fist full of the boy’s hair and yanked back as he continued, “You were very foolish coming into my cell without any guards Boy! Since your father had thought you expendable, why don’t we see if I can find you useful?”
After the boy was taken away, Khalid’s eyes went to his second guest and his eyes softened slightly. “Ah, Angel Potter.” Turning to his Head Elf T’Bell as he tried to regulate his voice, “Please make sure Angel has everything she needs. Although until I can insure her safety, I am afraid, Angel will be confine to the house. She is not a prisoner but an honored guest.” He turned a small smile toward the girl. She had been held prisoner where he had been. When his elves had shown up, he made sure they rescued the girl also. The Clan would be looking for her, so the safest place was right her on his island, until he could get in touch with others who could protect her. "Go now Angel and rest. The elves will get you anything you need. I will talk with you later and between us we will decide what would be best to do next."
As Angel was lead out of the room, Khalid sat in his favorite chair as his Saygar started to help calm him. He smiled as he said, “It won’t save that boy from my wrath or Frank Cole’s. Get a hold of your son Ra’bell, and inform him to have Fixer brought up to speed. Matthew MacIntosh had his brother try and brainwash Fixer, He will pay for what The Enforcer did to Frank Cole. I plan on making Matthew pay dearly and his own son Jonathan will be the first to feel my wrath.” Khalid was still smiling as he fell asleep
FRANK COLE
It was 9:00 am, and Frank Cole found himself standing on the receiving deck of Khalid Onaris private island. He showed the officer on duty his letter from his father-in-law, requesting he come to the island and was told Khalid was at the house. He wasn't going to assume anything at this point. Since T'Bell and his sons were not there to meet him he would guess Khalid was still being watched. When the four elves were watching him they could keep him calm and away from the idea of destroying the world. Cole waved at a few of the men he passed on the path to the main house. He had been hoping to meet Khalid in his private garden area, where the man was at ease.
He was glad Angel Potter had been rescued. She would not be on the island long. As soon as arrangements could be made to get her safely to the mainland with friends, she would be able to go home. Jonathan MacIntosh was another story. The boy, who was actually a man now, was actually a McChey. Matthew MacIntosh, the Chieftain of the MacIntosh Clan, had adopted the boy when his mother mysteriously disappeared. The boy was raised by the Clan of Werewolves, but Cole knew he had not been turned. He was probably be held as future insurance for the McChey family, which included Sasha McChey, Head Mistress of Hogwarts. Cole knew Sasha had no idea she and her sister even had a brother. Cole hoped he was still alive. Khalid had hinted at the fact Jonathan was going to be used to exert revenge on Matthew MacIntosh for the painful try at brainwashing the man had his oldest son put Cole through.
As Cole reached the door, he was waved in by one of the two guards. Entering the sitting room T'Ball Khalid's head elf, stood beside the chair where Khalid sat. The elf waved Cole to one of the overstuffed chairs across from the chair where Khalid had slept the night before.
Khalid smiled as he said, "Welcome Frank, want to deal with our guest? Or do you want to deal with business before pleasure?"
Cole picked up the glass of iced tea, T'Bell had placed on the small side table next to his chair and took a sip. Khalid was calm but that could change in a blink of an eye. Slowly putting the glass back on the table, Cole leaned back in the chair and crossed his legs. Lying his arms on the arms of the chair he said, "Let's take care of business first?"
Khalid gave a sly grin as he said, "Very Well. Miss Angelina Potter is in her room reading I believe. So how are things coming with the first assignment I gave you? Let's start with my thorn, did you convince him that fighting us was a very bad move on his part?"
Cole steepled his fingers in front of him for a few moments before answering. Franco Spellman had been to the Isle of Perdition, Cole's private island, a few times but he only wanted to give Khalid some information. "Franco Spellman is under control. He has agreed to give me editor rights on any story about you, the Clan or the Dark Sect. I'm not saying some things will still not get out, because if the paper all of a sudden starts printing good stories about you and the others, it will lose its credibility. When we want something printed with a tilt to it, it will not be believed. I can filter some of it or have the story buried where most people will not read it. I can get him to the island at my leisure also, no questions asked."
Khalid nodded then asked, "Frank, Matthew has every intention of controlling those Spellman especially Franco and Neo, I want to know why. Maybe our guest can tell us what is so special about those two?"
Cole wanted to keep Khalid from questioning Jonathan as long as possible. He had to think of a way to get the man loose or to have him not be tortured within a inch of his life. He had not decided if he should tell Khalid, Jonathan is really a McChey. At the moment he was not sure how Khalid would take that news, since one of the people on his list had been Sasha McChey. "Franco has the ability to control the strengths of objects. Could be useful in the future for you, if you needed to get through doors or walls." Cole had to watch his words because the possibility existed Khalid's mind would be read by someone before it could be blocked again. "As far as Neo is concerned, I actually have him as a member of my army at the moment. He has just about completed, Specialist training. This will make it easier to control him, because he is being indocternated into the necessity of following my orders."
Khalid gave a sly grin at this news. His master the Dark One would be very pleased. He closed his eyes and thought to his master, "See Master, Fixer is doing as you requested." The pain in his head decreased slightly as The Dark One said, "We shall see Dark Medjai. Continue with the report and we shall see if Zia is telling me the truth about you and this Fixer." Khalid cringed but opened his eyes as he asked, "Frank, continue your report! Though the Dark One is pleased so far with your work." Khalid just had to pray the Master continued to be pleased for all their sakes.
Cole nodded. He thought to himself, "I was right, Khalid is in contact with the Dark One at the present time. I will have to watch my words carefully." "As far as the other Spellman's, Marco calls me Sir when he is on the island and understands if we meet off the island he will not challenge me. I am still working on contacting Leo Spellman. Brennan has been doing profiling for me on a regular basis. He doesn't like it of course but he is not too hard to control. Oh, and I have been able to get William Wright to back off trying to find his sister."
Khalid smiled but only said, "Leo Spellman can be found at the Ministry. He heads the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts there. Continue, what about my foolish brother Tarik? Has he changed his mind yet? Or Maxwell Sinclair?"
"Maxwell Sinclair understands what is going on and what is expected of him. I can also get him back to the island if I need to shall we say strengthen the bond between what will be required of him later." Maxwell knew that Cole had to pretend he was working for the Dark Sect and he also knew that he would play a very big part in taking down the Dark One in the future. "Tarik has been to my island one time and we came to a partial understanding. I have allowed him time to think of what he needs to do to insure the safety of his family." Cole paused and took another drink of his iced tea. "In fact, Tarik and Brennan will be returning to my island tomarrow sometime late in the afternoon."
Khalid grinned as he thought of finally being able to chat with his baby brother. He turned to T'Bell and winked as he said, "Bring them straight here as I believe it is time to remind my baby brother just who runs this family!" He had given T'Bell special meanings for different signals and a wink meant tomorrow the Dark One would only hear what they wanted the entity to hear.
Cole sat up a little straighter and would have said something if Ra'bell, T'Bell's sireling had not walked in front of him and motioned for him to not talk. The elf leaned in closer, as if he was refilling Cole's glass and explained, "It is all right Master Frank, Master Khalid has just signaled my Sire that we will be going to the gardens when the others get here." Cole nodded. He still was not happy that Tarik and Brennan would be brought to the island with no preparation on what was going to happen. Brennan especially would have to be watched closely. The young Hit Wizard acted before he thought of the consequences. Cole decided to error on the side of prudence and added to Khalid's orders. "Make sure you bring the two of them bound, T'bell so there will be no miss understandings." Cole received a slight bow from the elf. Then he turned back to Khalid to see what was next on the agenda.
Khalid nodded and then said, "So what about the others on your list any problems?"
"The rest I have not gotten to yet. I am working with the children, bringing them along slowly so they do not know what is happening. I have found if you push children, especially the group we are concerned with, they will either dig in their heels and flatly refuse or they will run and you will never be able to convince them you know what is best for them. I don't want them afraid of me, because they will work harder and faster if they think they are helping friends." Cole needed to get Angel off the island so he added, "If you will permit me Khalid, I would like to take Angel to my island and use her to draw Leo Potter there. I think she would make an excellent lure for Gab and Natalie Lupin also. It could speed thing up a bit." Cole knew if he could get the newspaper owner to his island, he could find some excuse to get her back to the mainland.
Khalid nodded and winked but asked, "You should be half way through the list by now Fixer, You stalling? If Potter gets to my baby brother before we can convince the man to be careful of his words..." Khalid head was hurting and he really wanted Matthew's son to feel his pain. Preparing to stand as he said with venom in his tone, "Maybe it is time to send our message to Matthew? That werewolf had his brother try and turn you against me. The MacIntosh Clan needs a lesson in what happens when somebody gets to thinking they can betray the Dark One..." His master wanted the boy Jonathan to suffer but Khalid was unsure just how to make the young man live through the rage that Khalid was feeling.
The agitation Khalid was feeling was pouring from his body. When he stood so did Cole. He knew Khalid had said what he did about the list, so that it would look like he was unhappy with the progress Cole was making, to anyone outside the room who was listening. If Khalid started in on Jonathan in the mood he was in the man would be in a lot of pain quickly. Damage could be done that would take major medical recourses to correct. Khalid had an excellent Med Unit on his island, but might not want it generally known where Jonathan was. As they walked out of the room and headed for the stairs, Cole suggested, "I need some practice Khalid, how about letting me have a go at getting information from the man. I also think we should wait for some type of answer before we do any major questioning."
Khalid nodded but said, "Fixer, Jonathan is the message or I should say his body is! Unless you think the boy is more use alive? I have permission to make the boy suffer then send his body back to Matthew along with Markus' two sons bodies. The Dark One is tired of the MacIntosh Clan thinking that they can play him for a fool. A Lesson must be given and the boy foolishly walked into my cell without any guards as the elves were freeing me. So the boy's death or him suffering for as long as he lives which in my mood might be two hours? Unless you can think of a better way to send the Dark One's message and get payback for what we went through?"
Since Jonathan was really a McChey, and was most likely being held by Matthew MacIntosh as insurance against Sasha McChey or even some of the Caretakers doing anything, just keep the boy from the MacIntosh Clan would be a way of hurting the Chieftain and the Clan. But Khalid could also use the boy for his own purposes and in Khalid's present mood that could mean major dungeon time for the boy. "Thank you for taking care of the two goons They enjoyed their work. I do hope you showed them how I felt under their thumbs." As they reached the play room Cole said, "Would you consider me also taking Jonathan to my island. I have a good set up and have been able to get very good results with some of my own toys."
The old Dark Medjai shrugged as he said, "I did not kill them. Zia's puppets did. The Dark One chose to send their bodies here to prove he is not being fooled by Markus MacIntosh." He got worried that Fixer would feel he owed Zia and that was one witch that Khalid wanted none of his family a puppet of Zia's. Khalid got a sly smile as he misunderstood Fixer's reasons for wanting the boy, "Of course son, play all you want. Turning him? I think he is too loyal to his father but if he could be..."
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread.)
JONATHAN MACINTOSH
As they entered the Play room , Cole inwardly congratulated himself. He was not going to be able to take Angel Potter and Jonathan MacIntosh back to his island. Angel he would get sent right away, Jonathan he was going to just have to keep alive for a bit. Cole tried successfully to hold in the cringe he always felt entering this room.
The Playroom was tastefully decorated in yellows and gold's. Flowing lacey curtains covered the windows allowing for a partial view of the small terraces outside of each of the floor to ceiling window casings. Several overstuffed chairs sat at one end of the room. A small table sat between them and a coffee table sat in front. On the wall behind the chairs, hung a 72" screen and golden speakers which would allow for great surround sound dotted the walls completely around the room. A rich brown and gold rug covered the floor on the end of the room where the chairs were.
The surprising part of the room was the other end. The floor was hard wood which you could see a clear reflection in. There were chains fasted to several places on the floor with large bolts. There were also chains fastened to the walls and extending down from the ceiling. At the end of each chain was a solid leather strap. On the wall was an open shelving unit with beautifully hand carved molding. These shelves held, canes, whips, and cattle prods. There were handcuffs and a variety of straps.
Jonathan was marched in behind them in chains. Two of Khalid's men shackled the man to the back wall face out. Because of the bruises on his face, and the spattering of blood on his shirt, Cole knew he had taken at least on beating already. A couple of the bruises had already started to turn yellow and green so they were older and healing.
Jonathan looked to be about late 30's or early 40's. He probably stood about 5’10” and weighed around a hundred and 60 or so pounds. One of his blue eyes was almost swollen shut. His short dark wavy hair was plastered to his head due to dampness. With his clothes also being wet, especially his shirt, he most likely had a bucket of water thrown on him at one point to revive him. He had the upper body strength to take the beating he had already endured, shown by the tears and missing buttons in his shirt.
Cole looked at Khalid for permission to start the interrogation.
Khalid saw T'bell moving a statue from behind a curtain and placing it on the coffee table without the Dark One even realizing it had moved. Khalid's mind was trying to block his knowledge of it being there. It was time to see if his new found writing skills were getting better. The Dark Medjai absently wrote on a napkin, "Thoth" then eyed Fixer and prayed his son-in-law was quick at puzzles.
Cole looked at the napkin and smiled as he tried to figure out what Khalid was trying to tell him. The Crystal statue was old and looked like it had been hand fired. Thoth was the ancient god of wisdom, and magic. He would listen to battles and people and decide… Cole's smile became bigger. The statue was a listening device of … it had to be the Dark One, because it had been hidden behind the curtain where a small metal box was hidden. The box would have prevented and sound from reaching the statue. Cole nodded. Khalid was telling him the Dark One was listening and probable watching. Cole signaled Ra'bell to stand in front of the statue, at least they would only have to worry about him listening. Cole again looked at Khalid for permission to start.
Khalid smiled as he got up and went over to Fixer. Once there he asked, "So have you thought of the best way to punish him for what his father ordered done? I would hate for the MacIntosh Clan to think they can do this and get away with it. Dark One wants a message sent but I am unsure if this boy can live long enough to make him suffer to the degree that is needed. You are a Fixer, any ideas on how to achieve both?"
Jonathan shook his head, and tested the shackles on his hands and feet, as he said, "If you think he will be affected by my death, you don't know Matthew!" He had not called his father, "father" in a long time. He firmed his spine and stood as brave as he could as he said with as much strength to his voice as he could gather, "He would just laugh at your stupidity and continue business as usual." His father had always thought him to weak to be a true part of the Clan and deep inside Jon was glad his werewolf was deemed unworthy of being activated. He wanted to heal not kill and had been searching for a cure which infuriated his father to no end.
Cole walked up to the man hanging on the wall and slapped him lightly on the face. "We are not planning on killing you, at least not just yet. There is some information some friends of mine wish before you will be allowed to not be in pain anymore." Cole pulled back his fist and hit Jon squarely in the stomach, making sure he did not hit his kidneys. As the man doubled over as far as the shackles would allow, Cole grabbed his hair and slammed his head back against the wall, making sure his hand was between the man's head and the wall. It would sound a lot worse than it had been. Cole's hand hurt, but that would help to show anger at the shackled man. Holding Jon's head against the wall he said, very close to the man's ear. "I am going to hurt you. I am not going to kill you, put I must put on a show of sorts. Keep your mouth shut and don't give any information out." Cole then stepped back and gave Jon another jab to the stomach and a right cross to the face.
Stepping farther back, Cole stretched and said, "There that should warm things up a bit. What information do you want Khalid?"
Khalid shook his head and went to sit back down in his favorite chair. He signaled T'Bell to bring him something to drink. The pain in his head increased. He hated this boy's family and showed it as he said, "Well I am interested in what Matthew's interest in the reporter and cooler is? Though how is this helping solve the message to Matthew problem? Fixer, that Clan thought it could make us turn against each other and more importantly, Markus MacIntosh under orders from this boy's father dared to torture you in hopes of turning you into their puppet while acting as if the Master sent him. Dark One is not happy with this Clan's poor attempt at power and neither am I!" His eyes glared at Jonathan as he said, "If killing him is not your plan than just how is Matthew going to receive The Master's message? And Fixer, you still have not answered just what other use is this CUB?"
Cole looked out the window for a moment. "From what I have been able to find out about the MacIntosh Clan, just having Jonathan here, where the Clan cannot find out what information is being given would send a strong message to the Clan. Sometimes Khalid killing is not the only answer as I am sure the Dark One knows. Sometimes just keeping information from the intended victum is far worse. They have no idea what to plan for." Turning back to Jon he said, "Now it seems your family has taken an interest in Franco and Neo Spellman. Why don't you tell us what that interest is MacIntosh."
Jonathan cringed as he finally recognized the man torturing him, "I know you!" He had helped the man by providing some pills to counter some drugs in the man's system. He was about to remind the Fixer when he remembered the man's words. Jonathan had no idea what Fixer's game was but if it kept the Dark Medjai from getting his wish, Jon was more than willing to play this Frank Cole's way. He shook his head as he said, "I am telling The Dark Medjai nothing! As for you, Fixer..." He hoped this would not get him killed as he spit in the man's face continuing, "Go back to your island and stay there as Matthew is far from done with you!"
Accepting the cloth from Ra'Bell, Cole wiped the spit from his face. For a moment he just stared at the man on the wall. Glancing at Khalid he saw an expression that told him he need to react strongly to what just happened. Cole turned to Ra'Bell and said, "Turn him around and remove his shirt. I want the restrains tightened so he is tightly held in a spread eagle." As this was being done, Cole walked over to the shelving unit and looked at the offerings. Finally he chose a single tail whip and walked back to behind Jon. Cole cracked the whip a couple of times to get the proper distance from his target. He planned on putting welts on Jon's back, but with any luck he would not seriously break the man's skin. All the practice with some of the Specialist was about to come in very handy. "I was willing to start slow with you, but I will not take spit in the face, from a no nothing like you. Feel my wrath." When the last word came out, Cole sent the tip of the whip across Jon's back. Without waiting, he added four more stripes. Cole walked up close to Jon and said so only the man could hear, "Good move, but you forced me to add more pain than I was planning."
Jonathan screamed as the whip hit it's mark. He had asked for this as he had watched the Fixer on the other island. The young man was not worried through as he knew this punishment could have been a lot worse.
Cole turned and walked toward where Khalid was sitting."I enjoy a whip but this room is not big enough to use it properly." Cole threw the whip on the coffee table as if he was discussed. The whip slid across the table and knocked the Crystal statue to the floor and against the leg of Khalid's chair. When both men looked down, the Crystal statue lay in about twenty pieces. Cole smiled. "I sure am sorry that happened Khalid. I will of course replace it or give you what it is worth." Cole knew the Dark One could not see and hear what they were saying. If the elves could block Khalid's mind effectively, then they had some breathing room.
Khalid frowned as he saw the statue break saying, "I did not even know it was back there. I will see if I have a replacement, Fixer while you play some more." He prayed the Dark One believed it had been an accident and that Khalid was leaving the room.
Slowly Cole walked back to where Jon was hanging on the wall. He looked at the strips he had created and then walked to a small cabinet imbedded in the wall. Taking out some lotion and a small soft cloth, Cole walked back to the man and rubbed the lotion on Jon's back. He heard the intake of breath as he hit some of the sore spots, but this had to be done. When he was finished, he said to Ra'bell, "Take him down and let him sit in the chair." To Jon he said, "Do not fight me on this, or I will leave you where you are."
Jonathan had started to fight but stopped as he heard Fixer. Whispering he said, "Left pocket of my robe, pill that might help him? Clarity, vitamin. reason I went to his cell."
(OOC: Jonathan is an administration character used to further the story. This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread.)
KHALID
Cole only stared for a few moments as Ra'bell was taking Jon down. Looking around he saw a pile of clothes on a nearby shelf. The elves had folded everything neatly. Taking the robe and starting to check the pockets, Cole came across a small piece of tissue. Unwrapping its contents he found two small yellow pills. Khalid who had not left, but was sitting in his chair, his mind blocked by the T'Bell and Ra'bell, looked at Jon who had been put in the other chair near the coffee table. Only a small round pedestal table separated the two men. Cole walked up and showed Jon the pills then walked to Khalid and held them out. "He really did help with meds on my island. Lance sent him with the drugs to help. I personally think we can trust him in this. I am only getting positive reading where the medication is concerned."
Khalid only stared at the young man. He was about to shake his head and refuse the vitamin, but Cole had never lied to him. He whispered, "But Frank, the Dark One might still be able to sense the change in me? Plus why should I trust any MacIntosh especially Matthew's son?"
Jon just sadly shook his head, as he sat forward in the chair with his elbows on his knees, to take pressure off his back. Whispering, as the others were doing for some reason, he said, "Maybe for the same reason I would trust any related to you? I am not my father just as Lance and Frank are nothing like you! Take the pill or don't, I care not..." He hated seeing the old man suffer even if Khalid was as dark as most of Matthew's family.
Cole closed his hand and placed the pills in his slacks pocket. "You may have a point, Khalid. We shall save them until later when we go to your garden area, which I hope will be soon." Turning more to Jon he said, "You will stay free as long as you do not give me any problem. You have been turned over to my care. Soon you will be sent to my island, where you will be further questioned." Cole couldn't tell Jon, most of what was going to happen on the Isle of Perdition was going to concern de-programming. It had been a few years since Cole had been involved with any deep de-programming, so it was definitely going to be interesting.
Khalid shrugged. He said still afraid of unknowingly breaking his vow with the Dark One, "I was not always like this but thanks to Your Family Boy, I have my own kin hunting me!" For some unknown reason the Dark Medjai feared this boy. He wondered if it was because of the boy's friendship with his great nephew Lance.
Jonathan shook his head as he said, "No Dark Medjai, you fear me because I am a healer and you have no idea what I heal. Do you?" He got up and walked away from the men. The girl was being kept somewhere and Jon planned on finding her and getting the Quibbler Owner out of harm's way.
He said almost to himself, "I have no desire to be either of your informant so if you will excuse me," Jon gave a slight bow then continued, "as I have somebody I promised I would see safely with her family. Then I have other plans which don't include either of you." He had to find a werewolf that had been bitten recently or the next full moon, his friend Lance Kildare was toast, as Uncle Markus and his father hated the fact he had helped Fixer. The man bitten worked with Lance and it was his uncle's hope either Lance would be turned or die in an attack. He cringed as he understood his father's threat was directed towards his best friend.
Cole shook his head and went to stand in front of Jon. "I am afraid you are not leaving this room. Angel is fine. If you settle down and are reasonable, I may be persuaded to allow her to join us. At the moment I am waiting for word from her brother so when she is returned to the mainland she can be met and taken care of. So sit down so I don't have to restrain you."
Jon stopped and looked into Cole's eyes, as he said, "You took Leo Potter?" Slowly Jon backed away from Cole and sat back down. He had to try to get this man to just let Angel go. He was working hard to get Angel to realize that he, unlike the rest of his family, could be trusted to keep his word. "Please Frank, don't use her brother like you usually do."
Cole followed Jon over to his chair. Standing near it he crossed his arms across his chest and took a hard stance. "I have not captured Leo Potter." Cole looked at Khalid because both Leo and Angel were on his list that the dark one wanted brought around to a different way of thinking on where their loyalties laid, but now was not the time to have them talked to. Letting Angel return, unharmed by him, and allowing her brother Leo to meet her, would go a long way to getting both of them to his island at a later date. It might cut down on some of the time it would take to talk with them also. "I am waiting for my contact on the main land to get Leo to agree to arrive at a point in Diagon Alley so Angel can be sent home and met by someone who can protect her. That is all I need at the moment with both of them."
Khalid looked at Fixer as he listened shaking his head. He said bewildered, "But Fixer, are they not both on your list? Please do not have me questioning your loyalty in this matter."
Cole turned toward Khalid, but did not move his feet. "Yes they are on my list. Have you not given me the ability to take care of what I need to do in my own way? I have not forgotten what I need to do and the consequences of what I do not get accomplished."
Jon listened but only said, "Fixer please remember I am not staying here or going to your island Fixer as I have other things to tend to namely a recently bitten." He had a bad feeling that Fixer had no intention of freeing him.
Turning back to Jon he said, "You are going to my island Jon. I am afraid you have no choice in the matter. As far as the person who has just been bitten, give me the person's name and I will have him found, rounded up and you will be allowed to sever the bitten place." It was not hard for Cole to figure out why the doctor wanted to find the person who had just been bitten before the next full moon. If the bitten part of the body was cut away then it would not fester at the full moon phase and thus the person would not become a werewolf. It was an extreme method but it had been found to work one-hundred present of the time.
Jon sadly shook he head as he said, "I am sorry but I must seek this person alone. As for who, all I know is he works with Lance. I am sorry Fixer but I must refuse your invite."
Cole only shook his head saying, "I am also sorry Jon, but you have no choice in this matter. Angel will be sent to her brother as soon as he has made the arrangements to be at the Diagon Alley meeting spot and you will go to my island where I will have further conversations with you. Now…." Before Cole could continue an elf entered the room and whispered in Khalid's ear. Cole knew something important had happened because Khalid rose from his chair and walked toward him. The Dark Madjai wrote on a scrap of paper, Tarik and Brennan in garden area . Cole looked at him to confirm what he was reading then nodded and looked back at Jon, "I am afraid you must go sooner than I expected." Cole raised his hand, fingers opened then made a fist. Jon fell softly to the ground totally bound. Turning to Ra'bell who had bound Jon he said, "Send him to my island and let Punta know to hold him gently in one of the rooms. I will follow as soon as possible." The elf nodded and made Jon float in the air parallel to the floor.
Khalid nodded but was fearful of what Tarik actually believed about him. He watched as the MacIntosh Brat fought his fate. Laughing as he said, "You better never leave that island. You live as long as you are useful."The Dark Medjai winked at Fixer as he went out the door.
Cole made sure Jon was on his way. He paid no attention to the screams and empty threats the man was giving. Punta, his head elf on the Isle of Perdition would make sure the man was reasonably comfortable and secured in one of the interrogation rooms. Cole was hoping to get to his own island by the evening time. Shaking his head he followed Khalid out the door and down the back stairs, headed for the Garden Oasis Khalid had established for his own comfort and so a small area could be totally blocked from any outside knowledge or interference. Anyone trying to read Khalid would think he had just taken a nap.
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread)
TARIK SADIKI
The whole area was about 50 foot square and surrounded by a high hedge. Off to one side was a small garden containing date trees, several varieties of berry bushes, and vegetables with ripe fruit. In a back corner was a fountain, which seemed to flow out of the top of the four foot high piled rocks and cascaded into a clear pool of water. The grass was a velvet cushion, which added lightness to every step.
When Khalid smiled in his direction, he returned the smile, as he was led to a tent set just off center to the right. The tent was called a buryuut hqiar (literally meaning "house of hair" because the nomads normally built them out of goats hair). Most of the tents were black in color, but Khalid had opted to have color added to the outside. Cole figured he had used the colorful curtains, normally hung on the inside as outside walls. The whole structure measure about 20 feet by 20 feet and looked light as a feather. Khalid had kept the outside measurements. So many wizards had homes and other living areas where the outside was smaller than the inside. There were fantastic rugs covering every inch of the floor and pillows and cushions piled everywhere. The small table next to the back wall contained, several putter plates and crystal stemmed glasses.
As they entered through the hedge, Cole could hear Tarik's voice loudly ordering one of the elves to immediately release him. Cole smiled, because that was not going to happen quickly.
Khalid walked up to the tent opening and smiled. Both Tarik and Brennan had frozen where they stood just outside the flap. Their hands were tied behind their backs and Tarik's robes had been removed. The man stood in slacks and a white button shirt. Brennan had dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, apparently freeing himself up to be able to fight. Keeping the smile on his face he quietly said to Ce'bell, another one of T'bell's sons, "Take my baby brother inside. Take my nephew Brennan to the house."
Bren moved so he was between Khalid and Tarik. If he had known they were going to end up on the Dark Medjai's island he never would have agreed to let Tarik come. The Madjai had decided to arrive early and had told Brennan, it would help to keep Cole off balance. Brennan was furious and started fighting as he said, "I am not Your Nephew. Let uncle Tarik go now!"
Khalid shoved Brennan out of the way, into the waiting hands of Ce'bell saying with measured steel calmness in his voice, "Gag him!"
Tarik looked from his half-brother to Brennan then back to Khalid. He had not seen this man before except through some very grainy pictures. Tarik had been given the job to hunt Khalid down, by the Egyptian Magical Council, for the murder of his grandfather. Khalid had been 45 when his grandfather had been murdered and Tarik had only been a child. When Tarik returned from his Year of Knowledge he was eighteen years old and the council made it is life's mission to find Khalid and bring him in. That had been fifty plus years ago. Now he stood in front of the man and he was unsure what would happen next. Over the past couple of years the idea that Khalid committed the murder had been weakened by people and other happenings. As he looked at his half-brother he realized there was tiredness around the man's eyes, as if he had not slept soundly for a very long time. Standing straight and taking as relaxed stand as he could he shook his head as he said, "What Khalid, don't trust I won't take you down?"
Khalid just laughed as he said, "If I thought that you could, you would not have survived this long." Looking at Brennan, he said, "You will be taken to the house. If you go quietly you will be in comfort. Fight the idea and you will end up in one of my special rooms." Khalid waved Brennan away.
Cole had just stood off to the side and watched what was going to happen. Brennan had give him some looks that would have been very dangerous if they had been knives. Cole did not change the expression on his face. The best place for Brennan at the moment was the house. Khalid and Tarik needed to talk and Brennan would be constantly interfering. He watched, as the Hit Wizard was lead away. At least he would not end up in one of Khalid's acclimatized rooms, which were extremely uncomfortable.
Tarik was led into the tent and positioned on a couple of the cushions along the rear of the curtained off room facing the area just to the right of the front flap. Cole took a place on some cushions off to Tarik's left and Khalid settled in off to his right. Cole crossed his legs and leaned his elbows on his knees.
Ra'bell went to the tables along back and made up three plates of sandwiches and other tidbits, and poured three mugs of wine. These he carried and placed on the carpet in the center of where the three human's sat. Looking at Khalid, he silently asked if he should feed the stranger or release his hands so he could eat on his own.
Khalid waited until they were all in the tent. He looked at T'Bell as if to ask if it was safe. Then he said, "Brennan will be safe as will you baby brother. I can't afford the Dark One using the boy to listen. Frank, how is my baby brother's blocking ability? Could the Dark One read him?" He so wanted to just hug both his baby brother and Cassandra's adopted son Bren. It hurt that both hated him and feared him. Khalid's eye fell on Tarik and then turned to Frank Cole. He felt scared himself because he was unsure if Tarik would carry out the death order or would he hear him and Frank out. They were taking a huge risk and if it went south then the ones who would pay were the very ones Khalid made the vow to protect, his siblings.
Tarik listened and felt his brother's fear but not towards him. He looked at Fixer and prayed the man was not being used. Khalid's energy did not give off the dark energy that Tarik had expected. Tarik's eyes fell on a portrait and he smiled as he said, "Lili, I presume?"
Khalid looked at Fixer as he tried to decide just how his baby brother knew about Lili. He needed to be patient until he was cleansed by the elves. In the Garden Oasis, the Dark Sect and anyone else could not influence Khalid in his thoughts and his actions. The elves could bring him the calmness he needed to deal with his baby brother. Khalid nodded as he said, "If you think it is wise my friend release him?"
Cole steepled his fingers in front of him and looked at the Madjai. The elves were blocking all of the magic from them so Tarik would not be able to use any of his special blood or elfin magic. It was just easier for the elves to block any magic, then try and choose who was able to do what. Looking into Tarik's eyes, he tried to guage if it would be a mistake to realease Tarik. Deciding that it would show some trust and maybe defuse the situation a bit, Cole nodded at Ce'bell to release Tarik's hands, adding, "Do not make this a mistake on my part Amir."
Tarik nodded as he felt the bonds disappeared. He said, "I can answer my brother. Khalid, I doubt Fixer would have set this meet if he thought I was a danger to you. Khalid, why have you asked to talk if you don't trust me?"
Khalid nodded as he waited for T'bell to inform it was safe and his mind was once again on his true path.
T'Bell walked closer to Master Khalid and placed two fingers on the human's temple. Closing his eyes for a couple of heartbeats, he nodded and said quietly into Master Khalid's ear. "The cleansing is complete Master Khalid. The area is closed off to all human's except the three of you." T'bell bowed shallowly and then took two steps back. He would be monitoring the human.
Khalid nodded but still only said, "I don't trust me. You are an empathic Tarik." Khalid sadly shook his head as he looked at Frank Cole. His eyes showed his fear. Khalid was not scared that Tarik could take him and cause physical problems. He could not explain it. It was like Khalid was still that scared twelve year old. He wondered why he could not talk to Tarik. Khalid knew he was a disgrace to his family.
Cole looked at T'Bell and silently asked, why wasn’t Tarik, picking up more of how Khalid felt. Tarik was a highly skilled empath so even if he could not pick up internal words he should be picking up more of the emotional side. T'Bell nodded and stepping closer to Khalid, laid two fingers on the Khalid's temple, closed his eyes and nodded. When he opened them, he said, "Master Tarik, you will feel your brother. Know how he feels."
Cole looked at Tarik and said, "You are not here for anything concerning the Runes, Tarik. This is not the place or time. Your brother wanted to talk with you. Now open up to him and listen." Turning to Khalid he said, "Your brother is here to listen, Khalid. Tell him what you have been holding from him all these years." Cole unsteepled his fingers and folded his hands in front of him, still relaxing his elbows on his knees. After a moment he reached out and took one of the small sandwiches from the plate in front of him and picked up the wine mug. Either these two were going to start talking or he was going to have to separate them again. He needed to get back to his island.
Tarik shook his head as he said, "I chose not to use my gift. I have picked up a few things. Enough to know my brother is not ready yet." He was not going to force Khalid. He got up and walked up to Khalid. He whispered, "Did you know they would kill Mina? Or about Ali's murder?" Tarik got nothing except Khalid uncertainly.
Tarik smiled but only said, "That is alright Khalid one day you will be ready. just know you can still come home."
Tarik smiled as he felt the same rage he, himself had felt at each death. He turned to Fixer as he said, "I have my answer but Khalid some day you need to talk to Martin, Molly or Max. It will be helpful to heal from what the Dark Sect put you through. Even Tommy Andreas is talking with Max."
He got up as he said, "Fixer, I think it is time to let T'bell and his brothers help Khalid. Let's get Bren and head to your island." He knew his brother was ashamed of what he had done. He hugged his brother as he said, "You have nothing to be ashamed of. Khalid one day I will return but only when you are ready. Thank you big brother as now I understand Cassandra's vision. He smiled as he felt Khalid hug him back.
Khalid sadly shook his head but only said, "Maybe?"
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you are enjoying the thread)
FRANK COLE
Cole stood up and waited for Tarik to finish talking with his brother. Khalid had just lowered his head and would not even look at him or Tarik, he just stared at his hands. After all the man's demands to bring his brother to him, he had just folded and not asked any of the questions he wanted answered. Cole could only shake his head and motion Tarik to the flap in the tent. He was not sure what was going to happen on the Isle of Perdition, but he knew it would not be this calm. Tarik was going to have to learn how to deal with what Cole needed from him. Mainly control of his Blood Magic and to listen to what he had to say and believe what he had to say.
Looking at his watch, he realized it was late in the afternoon. Several things had to be done before he could relax for the night. Tarik and Brennan would have to return to Hogwarts this evening so tomorrow could be set aside to handle Jon. Punta would have to get a message to Lance Kildare that he was needed on the island and include a safe pass. Cole knew Lance would come when Jon's name was mentioned but he wanted to sweeten the pot a little. He was going to need Lance's help.
Turning back to Khalid one more time before exiting the tent behind Tarik, who was preceded by T'Bell, Cole only shook his head at the sad man sitting on the cushions.
(OOC: This is a combined post by Barbie and Jane. We hope you have enjoyed the thread."
CLOSED