Warning: This chapter will contain abuse toward a teenager. Nothing sexual. Not too graphic, at least not in my opinion. If it offends you, please do not read. You have been warned.

A/N: I usually put this at the end, but maybe it should be at the beginning. Remember this is a work of fiction, if you don't like, please by all means don't read.

Thank you for all the reviews – it warms my heart to read them all. It also sets my muse on fire encouraging me to 'burn the midnight oil.'

The Magnificent Seven belongs to someone else, no copyright infringement intended. No profit has been made. OC's belong to me. Just keeping their spirits alive in the hearts of their fans. Let the imaginations wander be it AU or OW this is our time.

Chapter 10

He woke prematurely as his head came into contact with something hard. Fuck, that's going to leave a mark. Why's it so dark? My eyes are open, but I can 't see anything. Wait a minute, something is not right. Hell, my day just got worse. I'm tied up and I've been kidnapped. Way to go genius. Should've called Joe to pick me up or something, but no I decide to take a walk to clear my head. Sadly, I gained a headache or two from the feel of it. I wonder how tight they tied my wrists. Sweet, not that tight, the cast screwed them up some.

Jesse struggled against the ropes, working them loose. He paused now and then to check to make sure no one was paying attention to him. Finally succeeding he was able to free his right hand, cast and all. Freedom, well almost. Listening intently he could hear a couple of voices talking back and forth.

"We got him and they made it sound like it was going to be hard. Bah!"

"I don't know. Them guys looked pretty beaten up when they got back. Can't believe a bunch of teenagers got the best of them."

"Sal, think about it, we got the drop on the kid, he'll sleep all the way back to the estate. I knew a fifteen year old wouldn't get the best of me." The man smugly declared.

Jesse pulled off the hood and cautiously noted there was only two of them. Ugly cusses aren't they. Why are the bad guys always butt ugly? He quietly brought his knees to his chest and worked hard at untying his ankles. Them pricks were going to pay for putting him through so much unnecessary pain. Hope I can take at least one of them down and get the hell out of here. As he removed the bindings he stealthily crawled along the floor until he could get the drop on the one driving.

"Hey Matt, what do you thing they're going to do with the…Look out!"

Matt saw something glint from the corner of his eye. He felt something sharp stick him in the shoulder and yelled as it was yanked out again. The van swerved as he watched Sal make a grab for something behind him. A loud grunt met his ears.

"Sal, you alright? Answer me!" He looked in the rearview mirror and saw Sal confronting the kid. Shit, how did he escape.

"Aaahhh! He stabbed me! That punk stabbed me!" Sal held a hand over his punctured gut while he kept a steady lethal gaze on Jesse.

"I don't know who you bastards are but you are going to stop this van and let me out."

Matt thought like hell we are kid. He stomped on the brake and watched Jesse and Sal hit the floor. Shifting it into park, Matt got up and found the object of his pain. Swiftly kicking the blade from Jesse's hand he not so nicely grabbed Jesse by his collar and brought him up to look directly into his hardened gaze.

"You want to play hardball then by all means we'll play hardball. I can't kill you, but you're going to be wishing that I did." Jesse met the man's glare with a glare to match before the other man threw him to the back of the van.

He hit the back doors with such force knocking the breath clear out of him. Great, Ryder you picked a fight with a gorilla. Two huge hands picked him up and held him fast as a punch landed in his gut. Now he definitely was gasping for breath. The arms released him and he dropped to his knees.

Someone grabbed his hair and yanked his head back. "Not so tough now are you?"

The man's breath sickened him and Jesse retaliated with a demeaning defensive move. He spat directly into the man's face. The man shoved Jesse to the floor and kicked him in the ribs. Shit! He yelped in surprise. Not good. With every little bit of strength he had left he rolled out of the way as another kick was sent his way. Jesse wasn't fast enough as the blow glanced off of his leg. Fuck! Luckily he spied his blade not far from where he rolled and hastily grabbed it. He shakily got to his feet and held off his attackers pointing the blade back at them. His world went to shit as one of them grinned and nodded. Confused by whatever he missed Jesse had been about to go on the attack when unexpectedly the back doors opened and he fell heavily to the ground.

An unnerving and familiar voice echoed in his head. "I see you boys have had your hands full." The pain running through his body was nothing compared to the memories that converged in his head. Opening his eyes he came face to face with the man responsible for all of Jesse's nightmares. "You, on the other hand, will never learn." The man cocked his head and Jesse felt himself pulled to his feet.

Sam Gerardi towered over him. "Boy, you've given me some trouble as of late and I aim to correct it."

A few backhanded blows to the face left Jesse spitting blood from his mouth. His surliness returned in full force. He raised his head and spat some blood at Gerardi. A sly grin met Gerardi's enraged expression. "You're going to pay for that, boy."

"Fuck you." Jesse knew he pushed it when the doors of the van slammed shut and he was inside alone with Gerardi. The beating that followed was nothing like Jesse had ever endured. There was not one part of his body that escaped the man's fists. Sweet oblivion claimed him as he lay in a bruised and bloodied heap in the back.

"He won't bother us for awhile. Let's get the hell out of here." Sam informed his men.

Why didn't anything ever go according to plan? Chris was beside himself with worry, because Jesse seemed to have disappeared off the radar. The gang had no idea as to his whereabouts, and their last instructions from him were to meet at the safe house. It was now one hour before the bust and Chris had no idea what to do.

His phone rang he didn't bother looking at the number. "Larabee."

"Hey, any word from Jesse?"

"No, Joe, not a word. I take it he hasn't called you…Joe? You there?"

Joe was beside himself. He looked at the other guys and then said. "This isn't like him. I've left him a few messages and he usually gets back to me right away. Something is wrong, I can feel it. I can't sit and do nothing. The rest of the gang feels the same way. Let us help you find Jesse."

Chris said the only thing he could say. "Head over to the hospital. Go see Sly. We'll see how things are after the bust."

"I see you didn't handle him with kid gloves."

"Damn kid had it coming. I don't take that crap from anybody especially a fifteen year old punk."

"Get him into the stable and have your men set up everything. It's time to lure the big fish in with said bait. This time I will get what I want and it will remain mine, forever."

A few hours later, Jesse came to aching from head to toe. Man, Gerardi's going to pay for every ache and pain. I'm going to kill that bastard. He moved a little and right away knew he was in for some more trouble. Glancing around he spied a camera and realized he was tied up again. He groaned. No, this can't be happening. Haven't I been through enough? He was set up to take either another severe beating of some kind. It was then he discovered he was without a jacket and shirtless. Fuck!

"Well, well, well, look who finally cared to join us?"

Jesse turned his head to answer. "Go to hell, Gerardi!"

"I don't like your attitude, son."

"You're not my father!" He yelled.

"No, he's not, but Chris Larabee is." A calm cool feminine voice replied.

It was her. He was sick to his stomach thinking that he once considered her beautiful. "Why am I here?"

"You, young sir, are the answer to my prayers. However, you have also been a very bad boy. I'm sure Chris would be disappointed to know just how bad. Sam, give him a taste of what he is in for, will you please?"

The sample he received had him as taut as a wire. Fuck! His body refused to relax after that first lash fell across his back. One hit and he was breathing heavily, perspiration beaded upon his face, and he was praying someone would find him before it was too late.

"Sam! Tell them to turn it on. Jesse, I know you are a smart one. I've learned so much just by watching you. The same goes for Chris. You'd both jump through hoops to save the ones you care about. The same goes for me. I'll do anything to get what I want and I've done so much for you and Chris already."

Finally finding his voice Jesse asked. "What have you done for me?"

"Why I've freed you from those people who were holding you back. Thanks to Sam here it was all too easy. Tracking their every move and finally waiting for just the right moment, which you provided that night."

His heart rate accelerated thinking about his past. "You bitch, you killed them!"

"But it was with your help. You were my salvation. And with your help again I will have the ultimate treasure." The coyness in her voice made Jesse want to puke.

"He doesn't love you! Why can't you see this?"

"Oh I see everything perfectly clear. As soon as he sees this." Her hand waves around the interior. "He will come a running to save his precious son, the son I chose for him. I picked you. You had similar features that Chris and I both share. You were the most resilient among the others. You were a perfect match."

He was sick at heart. This woman ruined his life to make her life better. She obviously wasn't dealing with a full deck anymore. In his deadliest voice possible he told her, "Go to hell you fucking sick bitch."

"Temper, temper. Tsk, tsk. You are in need of improvement. Chris should've shown you a firmer hand. Guess I must take up the slack, since he failed to do otherwise. Sam, whenever you are ready, you may begin."

The whip fell repeatedly striping Jesse's bare back. His hands clenched while his legs threatened to give out, but not one tear fell as a new rage burned within him.

Warehouse #4

Meanwhile, Ezra and Vin stayed in character and arrived fifteen minutes ahead of schedule to ensure their loyalty to their host. Vin's ever watchful eyes detected movement outside of the warehouse and more hidden movement on the inside as well. He knew their backup were in place. However, something triggered a red flag and his senses were on high alert.

Sensing Vin's distress, but not acting on it, Ezra continued with their plan. Unease settled within like an unwanted disease. Once they passed inspection they were allowed to traverse across the expanse of the floor to the desired meeting place. A few crates were opened and on display for their guests perusal.

The technologically enhanced pieces of fine weaponry were laid out in all of their glory. Valentine stood next to the crates an unreadable expression on his face. Ezra didn't like the feel of the room and knew his teammate felt the same.

"Julian! I am glad you were able to rearrange your schedule so quickly. It would have been a shame if you missed this opportunity of epic proportions." Their enthusiastic host proclaimed.

The southern replied satisfactorily. "Never would I have missed anything as grand as this display. You are an inscrutable man, Nero. You have made the impossible dream come true."

"Oh, you can't possibly know how delighted I am to hear that Julian. Although, I am disappointed in your ability to read people."

Everyone within earshot of the conversation knew the meet had begun to sour. Chris and Buck being the closest inwardly groaned. What gave it away? Chris thought Valentine's grin resembled a cat who found the canary. Shit, Jesse.

"I thought I was rather adept at reading people, Nero." Years of experience kept Ezra's head in the game. He was a true player and he would not fold yet.

Openly laughing Nero stated as his people converged on Vin. "How long has your associate, Mr. Malone, been in your employ?"

Not blinking, Ezra smoothly replied. "Long enough. He's the brother I never had. I trust him with my life."

Countering Nero sneered while he pulled his gun and aimed it directly at Vin. "That's where you made your mistake. Eventually family turns on you. My sources indicate this man standing among us is not who he claims to be. In fact, he is an undercover ATF agent who has brought in more like himself.

His eyes wandered searching the warehouse."Mr. Larabee, you have until the count of ten to make yourself known or I will be forced to put a bullet in your man here. One, two, three…" The counting had begun.

To quote his son, what the fuck?

"I assure you, Nero, Mr. Malone is not who you believe him to be."

"Four, five, six…"

Vin struggled against the hands that held him. "I don't take kindly to your manhandling of my employee." Ezra sounded truly aghast by Valentine's actions.

"Time's running out Mr. Larabee! Seven, eight, nine…"

Vin thought, Chris don't do it.

"Te…"

"Let him go Valentine!"

Valentine retorted. "It's too late to do anything, Larabee." The gun fired loudly.

As Chris yelled, "No!" A horrified Ezra watched Vin crumple to the ground.

Buck seethed with pent up rage wondering how Ezra failed to save Vin. He and the other agents were in the open now with guns drawn on Valentine and the rest of his men. "ATF freeze! Put down your weapons!"

Chuckling some Valentine stated. "You are in no position to give orders! In order to save your man, you will allow us to walk out of here."

"And why would we do that?" A cold hearted voice replied.

"Because if you don't I will end his life." Nero indicated to Vin with a tilt of his head. "And if you allow us departure I leave a gift for your viewing pleasure." He held up an encased disc. "You, Larabee, should have a better understanding of how precious life can be. Not only with this piece of trash," He nudged Vin with his shoe causing the man on the ground to moan, "But also the life of a child. So what's it going to be?"

His breathing hitched at the mention of two lives at stake. Vin's and Jesse's. He answered. "Everyone stand down!"

Buck, J.D. and Nathan all wore incredulous looks of disbelief, while Josiah and Shane remained indifferent.

Chris' glare bore down on Valentine with such undisguised rage. "You may have won this round Valentine, but it is far from over!"

"Oh believe me, Larabee, I look forward to our next meet as much as you do. I will rather enjoy eradicating Team 7's existence from this planet." Nero nodded to his men and grabbed the arm of his guest hauling him away from the man bleeding on the ground.

As soon as the doors slammed, Team 7 was in full action. Chris knelt by Vin, as Nathan placed pressure on the bleeding hole in Vin's gut. "Vin, help is on the way!" They watched helplessly as Vin contorted in pain.

"Buck, what's the ETA?"

Still on the phone Buck shouted, "Five minutes! You can thank J.D. for keeping one on standby!" He ended his call. "I got a hold of Travis he's up to date on the details. How's he doing?"

Nathan answered instead. "He's losing a lot of blood." They heard the sound of the door opening and a stretcher moving along with swift sounding footsteps.

J.D. was heard shouting, "We've got a man down over there! Follow me!"

The paramedics came into view. They nodded to the ATF team and began their work. It took four of them to place Vin gently upon the stretcher. They knew better than to argue with the leader of Team 7 as he climbed in to accompany his injured friend.

J.D. spied the disc lying on top of the now empty crate and pocketed it for Chris. Buck meanwhile shouted they were leaving. The team headed to the hospital as quickly as they could.

Denver hospital

Vin was rushed into surgery after their arrival. Chris and the rest of his men impatiently sat in the waiting room. Before Buck could voice his opinion about Ezra, Chris cut him off. "Don't even say it Buck. Ezra did the best he could. Remember, he's doing his job. I'm not going to fault him for it. If you want to blame someone, blame me."

"Aw hell, Chris! When you put it that way…I'm sorry. This whole thing ain't right!"

He agreed. "I know it ain't right. It's not right that Vin took a bullet. It's not right that Ezra is stuck playing his role while his teammate is gunned down in front of him, and it's not right to find that my son is in the hands of the enemy…Crap!"

Buck grew more concerned. "What is it Chris?"

"Hell! I…"

J.D. saved the day, "Chris, don't worry none. I got it. I saw the disc and picked it up." He watched as a certain amount of relief passed over Chris' facial features.

Holding his head in his hands Chris said, "Thanks J.D. First priority is seeing that Vin is alright. Then maybe A.J. will allow me to use his office so I can view whatever is on that disc in private. J.D., you have your laptop?"

Guffawing, Buck interrupted, "When doesn't he?"

"Good point."

"Might I make a suggestion?" Josiah asked.

His leader nodded.

"I suggest you don't watch it alone. Make sure one of us is with you when you watch the contents of that thing. I hate to say it Chris, but I've got a bad feeling about it."

Nathan added, "I agree with Josiah, it didn't sound like a comedy or something. Anything coming from that man must be vile." The rest of them were in agreement.

"It's settled. When I get the okay, Josiah I would like you to be there."

Josiah nodded, "That I will be."

Several hours later, Dr. Gilbert approached the six. He looked exhausted, but there was a certain gleam in his eyes. "He's out of surgery. Came through with flying colors. He's in recovery and I'm holding all of you responsible if Mr. Tanner doesn't get his fair share of bed rest."

"We'll hog tie him if necessary, Doc."

"I'm sure you will, Buck. I'm also sure you know the routine, so I've asked the orderly to supply some extra chairs in his room. Chris, you look like you have a question."

"Not a question more like a request. I need to use your office."

"I'm assuming that's after you're sure that Mr. Tanner is on the road to recovery?"

Buck couldn't help himself. "He knows you so well partner."

Playfully shoving Buck aside Chris answered. "That's the plan."

"When you're ready, have the nurse page me. I'm not going to stand in the way of justice." Dr. Gilbert then left them to check on the other patients in his care.

Vin woke as soon as the anesthetic wore off. Chris let him have some ice chips. "I bet you feel like shit."

"And then some. Have you heard from Ez?" His voice raspy from that damn tube.

"No. I'm worried that I left another pawn at their disposal."

Confusion spread across Vin's face. "Another?"

"They have Jesse."

"Shit." Vin coughed a little. "Ow, that hurts. Remind me to shoot the bastard that put a hole in my stomach."

"I'm sure you'll remember, although I think you'll be standing in a long line for that pleasure."

"Mark my words Larabee I'll get him." Vin employed a low and menacing tone reserved for the scum of the earth.

Reassuring his friend, "I never doubted you for a moment. What else is on your mind?"

"I've been thinkin' on it some and now I think ya got no other choice."

He raised an eyebrow at Vin. "What choice don't I got?"

"With me in this bed, you are now down two men. Especially since we have no idea how Ez is doing. What I am proposing is that you use the Black Marauders as backup."

Chris stood up so fast Vin got dizzy from witnessing it. "Are you out of your damn mind?"

"Shit, Chris, don't move so fast! Aw hell, I'm going to…" Chris shoved the specially made bag under Vin's mouth as he expelled whatever contents remained in his stomach.

"Sorry Vin. Didn't mean to get you upset. If A.J. witnessed that he kick my ass out the door." He helped Vin clean up a bit.

"Not yer fault. I was kind of expecting that. Me and that knock out crap don't get along so well. Shit that hurts." Vin cringed from the pain. After taking some labored breaths he continued. "I'm sure ya remember Sly's father is Nero Valentine and I'm betting that he knows the inside and outside of that estate better than anyone else. If you'd ask him, he'd be more than willing to help the cause, 'specially since his leader is in danger. The information we had doesn't compare to that boy's knowledge. We both know that boy has escaped plenty of times. Yer options are limited, so take the chance Chris."

"You've thought long and hard on this, haven't you?"

Vin feebly grinned, "Damn right cowboy. Hey Buck, J.D.!"

Turning Chris caught sight of his relief crew. "I'll take your advice as long as you do as the doctor tells you to do."

"I always follow the doctor's orders…"

"Mind running that by me again? I don't think I heard it quite right."

A disgruntled Vin muttered. "Fine, I'll be good and get my rest. Go save the world."

"Whoo hee! You sure know how to bring the best out of everyone one, eh stud?"

"Shut up, Buck." Chris gave Vin's shoulder a squeeze before he left the room.

"Where's he going in such a hurry?" Feeling slightly dejected.

Buck had to set things right as usual. "Valentine left him a parting gift. He'll be back, but I'm not guaranteeing the mood he'll be in when he returns. He wouldn't leave you pard, if it weren't important."

Vin slowly nodded thinking on it. "Must be something to do with Jesse."

"Yep." J.D. answered. "You were on the ground when Valentine gave Chris his options. He left him a DVD to view. I hope Josiah can weather the storm."

"Chris did right by picking him to help him through it." Vin agreed.

While Chris and Josiah sat waiting for A.J. they talked.

"Vin doing okay?"

"He bounces back pretty good. Not much can keep him down. I only hope he sticks to his word about following orders." Chris smiled. "I hate to say it but there are times he reminds me of Jesse."

"Or vice versa." Josiah chuckled.

The nurse behind the desk motioned to the two agents. "Well, it looks like we're being summoned."

"Dr. Gilbert called, I'm to give you the key to his office. It's on the 3rd floor, room 338." She handed the key to Chris.

"Thanks. I'll bring the key back once we're done." He and Josiah headed to the elevator. "I see J.D. delivered."

"I was told to guard it with my life."

On the journey back to the estate, Ezra sat in a state of shock. Forever branded across his consciousness would be the sight of Vin crumpling helplessly to the floor. An elbow to his rib cage snapped him back to the present.

His accommodating host addressed him, "Mr. Garnier or should I say Mr. Standish?"

"I beg your pardon?" Ezra answered.

"Do not think I have not known who you and your partner were from day one. Your team is at a disadvantage. You have been set up from the beginning. A lovely dark haired beauty picked your team above all others. I respect a woman who knows and gets what she wants and she has set her eyes on your boss, Mr. Larabee."

Still trying to maintain control Ezra graciously replied, "I don't believe I know what you are referring to."

A meaty hand viciously backhanded Ezra's face. "Do not insult my intelligence, Mr. Standish!"

Sarcastically replying, "Believe me, I won't make the same mistake twice." Ezra leveled a hard glare back at Valentine as he wiped away the blood sustained from the cut across his left cheek.

"Hah! I believe you will. Men of honor always learn no matter what side they are on. You, my friend, are a liability to our cause. Not only will Larabee come because we have his son, but you will be the sacrificial lamb."

Great. I've got to find Jesse and get us both out of this hell hole. I should have listened to my mother and steered clear of a career in law enforcement.

The car finally made it through the estate's well armed gates. Upon exiting, a shadow stepped into Ezra's line of sight. "Well now, aren't you looking rather dashing Mr. Standish."

"You won't get away with this."

"If I remember correctly, I have gotten away with it once already, haven't I? He will be mine forever and ever; one way or another. If I can't have him, nobody else will." The serpent hissed as Ezra's world went black.

Both agents were unprepared for what met their eyes after watching the DVD. The sadistic sight left them both nauseated and hell bent to see justice served. Josiah hadn't felt this much anger since his days as a troubled youth. He didn't know how Jesse did it, but the boy kept his pain in check while the whip fell time and time again. His concern landed on the man sitting next to him. Chris was too quiet. To see his son in this kind of predicament and not able to prevent it had to be taking its toll. His poker face revealed nothing, but his eyes told a completely different story.

The images would forever scar Chris' memories. They sat right along with the memories of Sarah and Adam on that fateful day. Someone, again, was trying to shatter his world. He knew she was off balanced, but nothing prepared him for this. He growled, "That fucking bitch!"

"Chris."

The rage was evident in Chris' voice. "I'm not going to lie to you, Josiah and say I'm fine, because I'm sure as hell ain't. We need to act now."

On the floor below Chris and Josiah, the patient in room 225 gasped in pain.

"Vin! You okay? Vin!" Buck was at his teammate's side in a heartbeat. J.D. on the other side of the bed.

Shit! Chris, what happened? An intense fire of rage coursed through Vin's psyche. "Should we call the doctor?"

"No!" Vin said through clenched teeth. "It's Chris. Something's not right."

"J.D.! You stay here with Vin. I'm going to find where they went." Buck shot out of that room like the devil was after him.

"Vin?"

"I'm okay, J.D., but something's pissed him off."

"I'll bet it has her signature all over it." J.D. was willing to bet his life on it. Vin nodded in agreement.

"Yeah, and Jesse's at the root of it."

By the time Buck got the information he needed, he was standing in front of the elevators impatiently pushing the button willing the doors to open. When they finally opened he almost slammed into Chris and Josiah. "Chris!"

"Vin's vibes must be on overdrive. It never ceases to amaze me how connected you two are." Josiah said in awe.

"I don't care how it works, I'm just glad it does!" Buck announced. "What happened up there?"

"She's hurt him, Buck. This time she's not getting away." Chris rounded the corner his stride was met step for step by both men until he stopped in front of a guarded door.

The guard allowed them entrance. Chris, Buck and Josiah entered and closed the door behind them. Two anxious faces greeted their arrival. "We got problems and I need everyone's cooperation."

The two boys nodded in confirmation. "It's Jess, isn't it?"

"Yeah. He's being held at your father's estate."

Both boys swore in unison. "They beat him badly."

"Worse than Sly?" Joe's eyebrows almost disappeared under his bangs.

"Yes. They have a new player on their team. I believe she is the one in control. That," Chris swallowed the bile that rose in his throat. "…hot looking teacher you guys referred to is behind all of this.

"Sly, I'm guessing you know the estate inside and out."

"Sure, even the hidey holes."

"That's exactly what I wanted to hear. We're going to need a map or something to get us in and out. Not only do they have Jesse they also have one of my men. We need to get them out. I'm not playing by their rules. I am asking the Black Marauders for help."

"How bad is he?"

Chris sighed, "They whipped him."

An hour later they brought Sly's mom up to date with their plans.

"There's no other way around this, is there?" Maria Poliamo asked.

"Believe me, if there were I would do it without hesitation."

"Sly, you listen to Chris and tell him everything he wants to know."

He gave her his sly grin. "I had planned on it. That no good son of bitch is not going to bother us anymore. He has now dug his own grave. We just need to lay him to rest for good."

"Let's get to it." The planning began and ended several hours later.

The next day they met again at the hospital this time an astonished Joe questioned Chris' plans. "You have got to be kidding? Why would you move Vin to Sly's room?"

The man in black answered. "I think they'd be safer in one room. Besides, Vin could use the company."

Joe shook his head. "It's a bad idea. I've heard enough stories about Vin. Sly's no better. Two escape artists in the same room. I don't even want to think what those two will come up with. You're loco."

"Maybe. I'm sure Maria will keep an eye on them two rascals." Joe only shrugged.

"What are you two whispering about over there?" A nosy sharpshooter asked.

Joe cockily answered. "We're taking bets on how long you two stay in those beds."

Before leaving Chris said, "Behave."

He received a thumbs up from Vin. Not a least bit reassured Chris looked over at Joe, "We're out of here."

As soon as the door shut Sly asked, "What did he mean by behave?"

"Translation: give them a ten minute head start before we join them. So, we wait for your mother to visit and then we blow this popsicle stand."

"I like how you think, Vin."

"Stick with me, kid, and I'll show you everything I know."

It was then that Maria walked in to hear their laughter. "And what are you two giggling about, hmmm? You wouldn't be planning anything rash now, would you?"

"Of course, not."

Reinforcing that mindset she added. "Chris told me all about your adventures Vin."

"Did he now?" He winked.

Sly intently watched this interchange. He wondered who would emerge as the victor.

She answered, "Yes he did. He also said you are the number one escape artist in the group and I'm to keep an eye on you."

"Just so ya know, Chris tends to exaggerate a bit. Then again, I wouldn't mind a pretty lady keeping an eye on me."

Maria blushed good naturedly.

After they mocked him, they left him there. He refused to let go of any emotions, but one, the rage. Similar to the open wounds on his back he allowed it to fester. He knew he had to stop their plan from coming true. He was determined he would not lose Chris to this woman.

Must get loose. Again they made the mistake of not tightening his bonds around his cumbersome cast. His work at freeing himself was slower than the last time, because his strength was depleted. Everything hurt ten fold.

He no sooner had freed himself when he heard a cold, critical voice say, "Going somewhere?"

Swallowing once and trying hard to control his heart rate Jesse turned around and came face to face with Nero Valentine.

She hadn't been gone for more than ten minutes and they had disappeared. "How…how did they do it?" Maria asked the guard.

"I feel worse. They got by me. It was a ruse and I fell for it. When I see Vin Tanner again he's going to get an earful."

Maria was shocked. "This has happened to you before?"

Embarrassed the guard said, "More than once. If I didn't know better I'd say it's a conspiracy on their part."

"Are you saying they purposefully placed you on guard detail because they knew Vin could get by you?"

"Yes. Although, he can get by anyone, but Larabee. He's the only one that can keep Vin in line."

"Imagine that. Do you think Sly and Vin are okay?" She inquired.

"They're protecting their own. Vin will look after him. I guarantee it."

Vin and Sly had taken a cab to Vin's apartment. There the ATF agent gathered the necessary means of weaponry he would need to succeed.

"Would you mind stopping at my place? I'm sure we could make it there before my mom gets home. I would like to wear something more suited to my size."

Looking up, Vin saw that his size in clothing didn't quite work for the pint size teen. Chuckling a little he answered, "Sure wouldn't want ya to lose anything along the way. I'm just about ready."

If looks could kill Vin knew he'd be a goner. The kid followed him to his truck and they hurried to make the extra stop.

Besides clothing, Sly added a few more things to his attire carefully hiding them from Vin's scrutinizing eyes. He figured the agent was distracted enough by the circumstances and wouldn't bother him with a shake down. His assumptions were correct and they began their quest to backup the rest of Team 7 in the war against his father.

Nothing is worse than waking in a room to a throbbing headache and finding yourself with no recollection of how you arrived at such place. Welcome to Ezra's world. His first order of business was to find the cause of his headache. He guided his fingers to the back of his head and gently probed the blood encrusted bump. I swear to whomever is responsible for that unnecessary transgression against my person will pay dearly. Unsophisticated brutes. Although, I wouldn't put it past my gracious host if he was the responsible party.

Seeing that he was not tied up and free to inspect his quarters, Ezra tried to stand. Using the wall for support he staggered to his feet and rapidly scanned the room in which he was sequestered. It was then he found he was not alone. Oh lord.

Laying upon the floor was another figure and this one did not move. As he collected his bearings he tried to walk the length of the room. His movements were slow and drunken like as his vision kept sliding in and out of focus. Cursing his awkwardness he finally made it. Indeed it was a person and not just anybody either. He recognized the jacket immediately and unsteadily sank to his knees. Oh no. No, this can't be. The lighting in the sparse room wasn't very good. He was hoping against hope that this wasn't whom he thought it was at first. Leaning forward he shifted somewhat and tried to get a better view.

What he saw shocked him to his core bringing about the first of many tears to his eyes. What did they do to you? He gingerly pulled the still figure onto his lap. Nobody deserved such brutal treatment as this. Especially one so young and full of life. To his utmost relief he found a pulse, although it felt weak. A low moan greeted the agent's ears and he offered as much comfort as he could. "I'm not sure how you're doing it, but you need to stay strong. I know help is on the way. They'll get us out of here. I might need to improvise a little, but we'll emerge from this hell hole alive. Remember I have a promise to keep."

The injuries upon this person was the most horrific thing Ezra had seen in awhile. How could someone inflict so much damage? The other question was how could he have endured it? Most men would have given in, but this one was undoubtedly made of stronger stuff. Although he was young, Ezra admired people like this. To go on when the odds are most undeniably stacked against you.

Thinking like this Ezra began to hatch his own plan. Although he was mentally shaken, his physical abilities remained and it was up to him to see that Jesse made it back to Chris alive. "Jesse. Can you here me?" He would call to the teen every few minutes trying desperately to get a response. After what seemed like an eternity his endeavors were met with success.

Jesse had felt like he was in a fog. The last thing he remembered was his failed escape attempt. Nero Valentine put a stop to his flight. Perhaps if he hadn't been weakened by the last few beatings he might have had a chance. Valentine, more than likely had been following the bitch's orders which sent Jesse once more to oblivion.

Yet before oblivion hit Jesse experienced a moment of pure terror. The scariest part of that beating was hearing the man laugh as he pummeled Jesse. That sickening sort of laughter that made your senses cringe in fear, because this was someone who actually got his thrills from exerting his superiority. Never had Jesse feared for his life until this man began to do his worst. Each time the man's fist or open handed slap met a part of his body every nerve ending exploded in shock waves of more pain.

It was the pain that brought him again to the surface. Yet then again there was something else hovering near the surface as well. A voice was calling to him. He didn't know whether he should answer. He found he felt safer in the dark and returning to the light meant pain. Was he willing to risk it? The voice called again. This time with a bit of urgency. The tendrils of oblivion kept pulling at him to stay, but his determination to live sent his spirit forward bit by bit. The pain intensified as he struggled out of the darkness and into the light. Almost there.

"Jesse. Come on, let me know you're still there."

A weak whisper struggled past his dry, chapped and busted lips. "Ezra?"

Thank you. "Yeah it's me. Glad to hear you once again."

"I…I hurt…"

"I know. Can you stand at all?"

"Doubt it…Is my dad…here?"

The southerner answered, "No, but if I know Mr. Larabee he is well on his way."

"She's…she's going to kill him."

"Not if I have anything to do with it. I'm not going to sit here and watch them carry out anymore of their evil deeds. I think they've done enough damage to last a lifetime.

"You listen to me." Ezra persisted. "You and I are not going to languish here. The cavalry is on the way. We need to start a diversion and plan ahead for the inevitable. I expect you to lean on me and put your complete trust in me. Do you think you can do that?"

"Sure, don't have much more to lose." Besides my life. He found it harder and harder to hang on.

"Mr. Ryder, I would prefer you to remain conscious for this. You are not the only one sporting injuries."

Jesse tried to laugh, but ended up hurting himself in the process. "Yours doesn't even compare to mine. Remember, I'm the bait." He did manage a weak smile.

"I clearly see a spark of defiance. It's good to know they didn't quite succeed in beating it out of you. Keep this in mind, no one can take that from you, unless you give in to them. I'm hoping you're going to finish seeing this through to the end."

As tired and battered as Jesse felt his spirit rallied with Ezra's words of encouragement.

"Chris, why are we standing around when we should be busting through those gates down there?" The impatient Buck inquired as he paced.

Following Sly's instructions, Chris and his men and Jesse's gang waited down a dirt road leading to Valentine's estate. They waited in a nearby grove of trees blending in with the shadows as the sun proceeded to set in the west. "Sly told us to wait until dark."

"Don't you think someone might pick us off by then?"

"I don't want to wait either, but Sly told us this road is the least traveled. Do you have any idea how hard it is to wait while my son physically suffers at their hands?" Chris felt a hand on his shoulder.

"If Sly said to wait, we will wait." Josiah then said to Buck. "I think J.D. is rubbing off on you. Normally it's he who wants to charge in and then ask questions."

"Hey, I haven't done that in awhile." A defensive J.D. exclaimed.

"Keep your voice down." Nathan harshly whispered. "If we all set to jabbering someone might discover us."

They all quieted down as the last few hours of daylight slipped on by. The signal Chris had been waiting for came in the form of a flare lighting up the twilight sky. "They're in. Time to go."

"Who's in?" Buck asked as he followed Chris' lead.

His leader smirked devilishly. "Vin and Sly."

Joe pumped the air with a clenched fist as he and the other boys followed the ATF agents toward the estate grounds.

"How did…when did they?" For once the mustached man was at a loss for words.

"Thank you God. Never thought I'd live to see the day." Josiah beamingly smiled lifting his face to the night sky.

Poor Luis felt obliged to inform the bewildered man of the plan as they stealthily made their approach.

"I can't believe you seriously thought that Vin and Sly would stay in the hospital while the rest of us participated in this witch hunt. Chris knew it, why didn't you?"

Not liking how the teen talked down to him while looking up at him Buck put his mouth in gear. "Now see here, that crazy link between Vin and Chris is not shared by all. The exception is Jesse. Hell, I must've fell asleep if they discussed it outright among the rest of you."

Todd snuck up on them and added, "More likely he had been making eyes at one of them nurses that came into the room." He sped up when Buck tried to kick him in the pants.

"Don't you guys believe in respecting your elders?"

Stifling a snigger Luis asked. "Do you really want me to answer that?"

Thoroughly miffed Buck stalked off to join the other adults of the group.

"It's obvious he can't hang with the big dogs." J.D. added as he high fived Luis.

Between Vin and Sly they took out a few of the armed guards along the way. They worked well as a team. After they made their way past the wall and onto the inside grounds Vin set off the flare alerting Chris of their position. "Where do you think they're holding Ezra and Jesse?"

"I'm thinking lower level. Possibly in the same room I was detained in when I 'misbehaved.' What a crock! Let's leave before said company arrives." Vin nodded and crept after Sly staying ahead of the thundering footsteps.

Hearing the commotion outside of the door Ezra announced to Jesse. "I think the cavalry has arrived." To his dismay the door opened and there stood the trio responsible for both Jesse's and Ezra's predicaments.

"Well now I see you two have gotten quite cozy. Unfortunately, we need to relocate both of you to a much more desirable location. Chris needs to see first and foremost the means I will take to achieve what I desire most in life."

Ezra refused to relinquish Jesse without a fight. "I swear every time you open that crack you call a mouth nothing but shit comes out. I suggest you quit while you're ahead."

His little speech did not go unnoticed. Ella simply stated, "Nero, take care of him and Sam grab the boy and follow me."

An object passed unseen between Jesse and Ezra. It was the only thing Jesse could think of that might help Ezra against Nero Valentine. He didn't have the strength to move let alone fight, but if Ezra could incapacitate Valentine in any way, so be it.

Ezra stood blocking both Valentine and Gerardi for the moment. Ella resolutely remained near the safety of the doorway out of the line of fire. Valentine lunged knocking Ezra off his feet giving Gerardi his chance to grab Jesse and mercilessly drag him from the room.

"No!" His cry of rage prematurely ended with a punch to his face. Ezra dodged the next and landed a few well placed punches to Valentine's physique. They wrestled, rolled, and fought until they broke apart. Each retreating to a different side of the room.

He had to end this and soon. No telling what that bitch might be up to. Making a rather hasty decision Ezra tried his old standby. "Call me crazy, but my curious nature beseeches to know what Ms. Gaines has offered as compensation to a wealthy gentlemen of your stature."

Valentine paused momentarily catching his breath replied, "Not that it is any of your business, but once she gets this Larabee out of her system she has offered to be my bride."

"Hasn't it occurred to you that she likes to…let's say use the men in her life. Her only one desire is Mr. Larabee and that will never change. Her track record speaks for itself. If I were you I would get out while the getting is good. Otherwise you may end up dead like everyone else that has helped her along the way." From the corner of his eye, Ezra spotted the two shadows hovering near the doorway.

"Not all of them have ended up dead. Gerardi and I are living proof. We've worked a long time with Ms. Gaines and if I detect treachery she will be the one to die and not me."

Ultimately praying the two outside of the doorway were indeed the good guys Ezra kept up with the charade. "My, my, you have it all planned out. Of course, I wouldn't expect anything less from the likes of you."

"Stop the fawning Mr. Standish, it's most unbecoming of a man of your skills. I know a conman when I see one. And I think it's time we end this little charade of yours." Valentine drew his gun while Ezra popped Jesse's blade. He threw it at Valentine as the other simultaneously pulled the trigger. Multiple shots rang out and both men slumped to the floor.

The shots were heard across the grounds. Jesse, with the little strength he had planted both feet on the ground and slowed their progress to wherever they were headed. Concern for the agent rocked his being.

"Keep moving, damn it!" Gerardi shoved Jesse who inadvertently collapsed onto the ground. "If you'd quit trying to get away things would go smoother for you. Now get up!"

The man none too gently raised Jesse to his feet making him cry out in pain. "Good, I do believe the message is finally getting through that thick skull of yours."

"Quit your yapping and keep moving!" Ella hissed.

What Jesse could make out as their intended destination were the stables. He tried to slow their progress again, but Gerardi wouldn't have it. They made it without problems and slipped inside the building.

Both Sly and Vin had drawn their guns at the same time as Nero leveled his at Ezra. Their shots found their mark dead on and the proof laid unmoving on the floor eyes staring at nothing.

Sly's gaze landed on the unusual object sticking out of his father's chest. He knew that object, but didn't see the owner of it in sight. His line of sight was abruptly interrupted when Vin appeared suddenly in front of him. Those angry blue eyes were now focused on him.

"Where in the hell did ya get the gun?"

Not missing a beat he nonchalantly stated, "At home. What's the big deal?"

"Does yer mom know about this?" Vin pointed at the gun.

Slightly reddening, "Uh, no and what she doesn't know won't hurt her. Um, don't you think you should be checking on Ezra right about now?"

"This conversation ain't over." Vin strode over to where Ezra lay on the floor. A voice reached his keen ears.

"Sure, scold the kid, but don't check on the well being of your teammate. Mr. Tanner I do believe you need to rethink your priorities."

Still peeved at Sly, Vin testily said. "Sorry Ez, heat of the moment. Did ya take a hit?"

Ezra slowly sat up clutching his right shoulder. "You could rightly say that I did." He tried to get up, but his wobbly legs wouldn't allow that particular function just yet. Vin assisted his friend and soon Ezra stood leaning heavily on Vin as Sly inquired to the whereabouts of his friend and leader.

"Where's Jesse?"

"They took him away as I had the unfortunate dealings with Mr. Valentine." Looking down at his nemesis Ezra dryly stated the obvious. "I see we all found our appropriate mark."

Vin nodded. "Let's go. And Sly, we'll be talking later."

In response, Sly rolled his eyes.

A/N: Sorry it's a little shorter than usual. Hopefully the next chapter will be longer. (keep your fingers crossed)