Here you go. Another installment. I've managed to map the rest of the story out so, I'm pretty sure I can get this written in under 60 chapters. As always enjoy the chapter and let me know what you think.

Chapter 49: Movement and manipulation

Sam's POV

Sam was very thankful for the darkness. The last few hours had been a godsend for him as he used the cover of nightfall to hide his thoughts and feelings of apprehension as he led the convoy of cars, trucks and motorcycles towards the estate. Unfortunately, his passengers were too attuned to him and knew he was faking it.

"Sam? You know that he's going to be OK, don't you?" He calmed a little as his mother's words were accompanied with a steady hand on his shoulder. Her reassurance encouraged the younger Winchester to drive faster towards the rendezvous point. For most of the journey Mary and Castiel had left him to drive and brood in silence, but it had gone on for too long.

"I know we've got to all think that mum but the realist in me is computing all the factors and the odds are not good. He's been missing for some time and from what Ketch has told us, Dean's been kept on lock down and my imagination is running to very dark depths. I know he's hurting mum and he wasn't mentally in great shape before he left. … I. I. .. Look! I won't be happy until he's back safe and sound with us in the bunker." Sam was proud of how steady his voice remained as he replied to his mother, but he knew, as did everyone, that he was faking it, until he made it!

Silence returned to the impala as the car ate up more miles, bringing everyone closer to a section of the estate's perimeter wall that both Riley and Charlie had identified as a blind spot. Sam mulled over the plans to ensure that he had thought of everything. He was confident that the team was as prepared for the mission as they could be. They had accurate plans of the compound and they had a man on the inside who was taking out surveillance, running interference as well as securing Dean. Everything was covered, well almost everything. His thoughts returned to Rowena's information regarding the 'game changer'.

Not knowing what the 'game changer' referred to could turn any advantage they had on its head. As if reading his mind, Castiel broke the silence. "I can hear your brain from here Samuel. You're not just thinking about your brother. You're trying to work out what the witch meant by 'game changer'."

Sam had to give Cas credit. For the numerous times that the angel had been oblivious to the world around him, he could be very perceptive when it came to all things Winchester. "Yeah… I'm just worried. It's bad enough that Dean's in trouble, but I have all these other lives that I'm responsible for. I.."

Before Sam could continue, Castiel interrupted. "No Sam. You can't think like that. You're a leader and you've got to keep your mind on the game… on the prize. If you allow yourself to focus on this, you'll cease to function as an effective leader and then you will make bad mistakes and end up getting everyone killed. …. Besides, the plan is good. The plan is solid. And everyone that is taking part have not been blackmailed, bullied or ordered. Everyone here, is here because they want to be. Because they love and respect either you and your brother. So don't do this to yourself. You can only make the call on the information you have and we don't have anything on what the 'game changer' could be. So let's get in there and find and save your brother."

Mary was strangely silent as she sat in the back of the impala. Sam knew that she was worried, but knowing his mother, he wasn't sure what specifically she was concerned about. "Hey mum! What do you think?" Sam had to ask, but he wasn't betting the house on getting a serious and meaningful answer from her. So her reply did surprise him. "Castiel is right Sam. We're all here to get Dean out and we're all big enough and bad enough to make our own decisions. You are not responsible for any of us. … I am as scared as you are about what we'll come up against when we eventually get in there and that's before we see what they've done to … De.." Mary didn't have to finish her sentence for everyone to get what she was trying to say.

Sam's eyes happened to glance in the mirror and the heartbroken look that flashed across his mother's eyes. It was a fleeting moment, but Sam saw it and he knew. In typical Winchester style, mother and son remained quiet and both faced forward and drove ahead.

An hour later the group had arrived at the perimeter walls and had safely scaled it undetected and were currently hiking across the terrain. By Sam's estimation they were approximately 3.5 hours out from the compound, which meant they would be aiming to enter the outer buildings just around 9 o'clock in the morning. Of course, that was all dependent on no injuries befalling any of the rescue team as they made their way across the country estate.

With the arrival of daylight, the group began to move faster, but were hampered by the increase in checkpoints and cameras. As much as Charlie had stated that there was no active surveillance in the area to worry about, Sam did not want to take any chances. They had to remain undetected as long as possible. If not, they ran the risk of either Dean being killed or moved on. In fact, it was that little fact that had Sam petrified, especially as the last few days had given Sam a renewed sense of hope. A hope that he would see his brother soon and rescue him. It was the least he could do, considering it was his failure to recognise that Dean had been spiralling that had led to the elder Winchester leaving the relative safety of the bunker and subsequently getting captured in the first place.

Images of Dean being taken away from him permanently provided the incentive for Sam to move faster. So much so, at one point, when he happened to gaze back, he found he was considerably further ahead than anyone else in the group. 'Hold it together Sammy. You can't do this without your team.' That thought made him slow down and wait for the others to catch up.

Eventually after a hour or so walking, the group managed to cross a river and hike up a steep bank. As they neared the top Sam raised his left hand and made a fist. This signalled to everyone to halt. Immediately he signalled for them to move across the left and right flank and stay low before they made their approach to the top of the hill.

The pace was much slower, but once everyone managed to reach the top and remain concealed, Sam had a very clear view of the compound. Despite having sight of the plans and some aerial pictures, the hunter was not prepared to take in the actual scale of the site and the security. On seeing what was in front of him, he was very glad he had agreed to so many people getting involved. Even from this distance, he could clearly make out at least 40 or so security. He assumed that the majority of them were human, which was going to complicate things further.

Sam was immediately startled out of his thoughts by the arrival of Cas, Bobby and Mary at his side. Everyone knelt as low as they could go as they collectively took in their target location. It was Bobby who started. "OK. It seems that the intel we've had to date has been correct, but up until now, everything has been a cake walk. Looking down at that security tells me, all the planning and advantages we have might not be enough. Samuel, what's the next move?"

The younger hunter considered his options. There was still time to turn back. To retreat and to source additional soldiers, but he quickly rejected that idea because he knew deep down that time was running out, especially for Dean. With that thought he shook his head. "No Bobby, we go forward. We may not have the numbers, but we have the element of surprise and we have an inside man. Besides it's daylight and the chances are that most of the vamps will be bedding down for a few hours rest. That means, it's most likely going to be humans we come across. I know that's not the usual enemy we fight, but fight we will. They stand between me and my brother and that simply won't do. We are going in. We are going to save him, no matter what the cost. We owe him that. You owe him that…. And I owe him that much."

Sam felt he was monologing like the hero does in the action movie, just ahead of the great battle, but he was sick and tired of how he felt. It was time to bring back control to both himself and to his brother. It was time everything was reset. Michael may have wrecked and damaged so much, but it was time that ALL Winchesters took back what was theirs. Looking between his mother and Bobby, he replied, "So! We stick to the original plan. Ketch has the wardings taken care off and the cameras are off. So all we have to do is get down there and split up as suggested. The perimeter lead by you, Bobby, will take out the guards on the outskirts and work your way inward."

The youngest Winchester then turned towards Castiel, "Cas, our teams will make their way into the main house. We'll split up. Your team will include Jack, plus Derek, and your mission is to take out as many vampires inside the house. And Cas, kill anything that gets in your path." As Sam spoke, Cas nodded in agreement. Turning towards his mum and Rowena he continued. "And you, me and Rowena are going to make it our mission to find Dean. According to Ketch, he had some help and was going to extract and secure Dean for us, but they're going to need our help. Our aim is to stay low and quiet and let Cas's team be the distraction for us, whilst we move through the house. Ketch has already identified a meeting point for us, so we need to get moving."

Sam didn't have to ask whether everyone was clear on the plan. The team leads were gathering their team members and were preparing to make a move. Sam gazed down the valley towards the compound. His heart was beating fast in anticipation of the impending violence that was about to rain down on the mansion. Whispering under his voice, "It's about time for some payback. Don't worry Dean, I'm coming.. we're coming for you, just keep fighting we're nearly there."

The entire group of hunters set off down the slope towards the compound. It was going to take them a good half hour or so before they reached the outer compound walls, but Sam knew exactly where the smaller group could get in undetected. Ketch had been very thorough when briefing them. With a steady footing and a steady heart, Sam moved forward.

Ketch's POV:

It had seemed like no time since Ketch had hatched a plan with the slave, Trevor. Feeling impressed by his own salesman skills, he couldn't believe how lucky he was to have found such a willing participant. The thought that perhaps things were too good to be true entered his mind for a millisecond, but he instantly dismissed it. He had done his homework and everyone had been clear that Trevor was obsessed with the Grand Master and had delusions of being his consort. Everyone had witnessed first-hand the blatant jealousy and hatred when Trevor realised he was being usurped and/or replaced by Dean, as Viktor's favourite.

Ketch grinned again when he thought of how he had manipulated the young man into doing his bidding. It would all work out well, but as much as he wanted to gloat he knew he had much work to do. Firstly, he had to inform Sam about the plans. Then he had to make his preparations, which included rigging the internal and external cameras so they showed false and faked images on the screens.

Fixing the security cameras was the easy part, as was sabotaging the warding around the compound. The hard part was dealing with the physical bodies. In terms of the humans he needed to somehow get the human guards scattered around the compound so the external team could take them out quietly and quickly. He then had to ensure that he cleared a pathway from the Grand Master's quarters down through the house and to the side entrance. He needed to make sure that little to no resistance could be encountered along that route, or the alarm would go off.

At the heart of his preparation, was the golden rule – ensure that the vampires, and in particular, Viktor Volkov remained unaware of what was happening for as long as possible. From what he had found out, it was better that Dean, and by extension, himself, were far away when the ancient vampire realised his prize possession had been stolen.

Thoughts of the vampire reminded Ketch of the magnitude of a task he had in front of him. Currently, the key vampires were all locked into a summit and there were a few delegates from each of the visiting clans confined to various wings of the house. He knew that he needed to ensure there was confusion, distrust and distraction in order to execute Dean's escape. But the million dollar question was how could he use the vampires against one another to his advantage. Each blood sucker wanted a piece of Dean Winchester, for one or other reason. Then it hit him! The fact that there was so much competition and distrust would work to his advantage. He just needed to use his powers of manipulation at a higher level within the Clan structure. But where should he start? Then it hit him, KATE!

It didn't take him long to hack into the security system – though he did have some expert help from Charlie. He then took a further 30 minutes or so to break the wardings and by doing so, the arrival of a large band of soldiers on the estate grounds would not trip the magic security. Equally, he put in place a few cloaking spells to ensure that the approach of the hunters remained difficult to sense.

With most of the 'easy' work done, he then turned his attention to reallocation of the troops. That was going to be more difficult, but not impossible. Moving quietly and quickly through the mansion he made his way to the office of the Head of Security, Sergio Koskin, or 'the Boss' as he like his fellow humans to call him. Trying to beat down his contempt for the Russian, Ketch knocked the door, but pushed it open without waiting for a 'come in'.

It was clear to see from body language that Koskin was not happy. "Fucking vampires!" Ketch didn't respond, as he knew there was more of a tirade coming. "You know, they've been in and out of discussions all night. They can't get a bloody agreement on anything, except that they're all power hungry whores." Ketch couldn't help but interject, "now say what you think there… 'BOSS'"

"It's bad enough that the we have one 'enemy' clan within the walls with the Fischers, but thanks to the slut of a human hunter, there's been some sort of altercation with the Richsteins and now I have to watch two clans. And don't even get me started on the Volkov Clan." On hearing this information, Ketch inwardly jumped with glee. With so much distrust there was loads of opportunities to destabilise and distract.

"Emmm,, what's happened now?"

Koskin stopped his pacing and looked directly at Ketch. "What's happened is simple, Viktor is adamant that something is done about ALL threats to Winchester, and he's indicating that something has to be done about Bridget's mate, Kate. Normally, I don't get involved in this crap, but I know that touching a beloved mate of one of the senior vampires in the clan is going to cause a shit storm and normally, it's us mere mortals that get killed in the cross fire. And this mere mortal wants to live a bit longer." Ketch had his opening.

"Yeah, I've heard something about what happened between this female vampire and the hunter, but I thought she was not in the mansion anymore. Something about fucking off back to the city." The former British Men of Letters assassin tried to play it cool. "If she's not here, she can't be a threat."

Before Ketch could expand, the Russian interrupted him, "Ahh, if only the bitch had stayed away. But, she must have missed her booty call or something because she arrived back about an hour or so ago. Now, I'm expected to keep an eye on her as well as the two other clans, and our own clan. I can tell you, something's going to explode in this place, and I am NOT going to be blamed for it."

Sensing the opportunity Ketch responded. "Look, if it's any consolation, I've just completed all my spell work and I've double and triple checked the warding, so this place is as locked down as it can be. If you want, I can take a pass by and see if I can at least remove 'Kate the mate'. At least that would be one less problem for you."

The silence that followed made Ketch nervous. Koskin seemed to be thinking. The only hope Ketch has was that he wasn't over thinking it. After some time, the Russian replied. "Aye, why not? She's lower down in the food chain and the likelihood that she'll do anything further is minimal. That would be one less thing to worry about."

Turning back to go through the plans, Ketch asked, " do you know where she is at the minute?"

"The slut's in Mistress Bridget's quarters. Probably sitting there naked and ready to repent for the mess she created a few days back."

With a plan beginning to hatch, he needed to ensure that the human guards where re-positioned outside the mansion. "you know, I've been thinking about this. With so many vampires in the house and with the dawn coming soon, it might be better to split your human and vamp guards up a bit. I mean, I don't mean to tell you what your business is, but with less humans in the house, things might be easier. I don't know about you, but I would be happier to be outside. A house full of the undead is making me even more nervous. I can only imagine that the other human guards would feel happier to be further away from the other clan vampires. Cuts down your risks of any… you know… altercations."

Ketch felt that his rationale was weak to piss poor, but he hadn't anything else to use. Thankfully Koskin seemed to agree. "Yeah, I've been really uncomfortable and given that there's such a large number of new human mercenaries and guards, it's better to keep things separated. We wouldn't want an incident. Besides, I'm not 100% convinced that I trust the new soldiers." Ketch knew that he was included in the Russian's thinking, but neither elaborated or expanded the conversation. Instead, Ketch nodded as Koskin began to reallocate the security teams. The changes to the security arrangements would take place in a few hours, around 8am.

With another task ticked off his 'to do' list, Ketch left Koskin's office and made his way towards Bridget's quarters in search of the illusive Kate. It didn't take long for him to locate the suite, but as he was about to turn down the corridor he slowed when he heard voices. Daring to quickly glance around the corner, Ketch witnessed one of the vampires from the Richstein Clan leaving Bridget's quarters. From memory, he knew Bridget was locked in negotiations at the summit, which left Kate alone in the quarters. 'Well now, what are you two got to discuss so quietly?' Things were working out even better than he had initially hoped.

Realising that the conversation between the two vampires was coming to an end, Ketch quickly moved away and hid further down the corridor. He watched as the vampire made his way back towards his own guest rooms. When he had the all clear, Ketch made his way towards Kate and Bridget's private quarters. Taking a deep breath, he rapped the door and waited.

Of all the images he expected to see when the door opened, it wasn't the one that was in front of him now. Standing before him was a dishevelled and angry young woman. It was clear that she was just about keeping things together. Her current appearance was just perfect for what Ketch needed. Glancing up, he introduced himself. "Apologies Mistress Kate, I don't have much time, but I've been sent by both your beloved Bridget and Master Valentin. Can I come in?"

At first, he thought the female vampire was going to dismiss him, but as she scanned him, she seemed to consider her options. "Very well!" As she spoke, she opened the door and allowed Ketch access to the inner sanctum. Ketch didn't waste any time. As soon as he found himself in the main hub of the quarters he turned and bowed his head.

"Once again forgive me for this intrusion. Valentin knows that you're back and he's very glad you are. He's sent me, as a go between, so we." Before Ketch could continue, she interrupted, "What makes you think I believe that VALENTIN would want to help me. After everything that's happened. What Viktor has done to me, do you really think I would believe anything that that bastard traitor has to say. He and Viktor took the hunter's side against their own kind and all for the taste of that whore's blood."

It was clear that Kate had utter contempt for Dean. "And Master Valentin understands you would think that. Surely you don't believe that he would side with a human against his own kind? He's in a difficult position and he asked me to get in contact as you're important and he needs you to help him save the Volkov Clan."

Ketch's remarks had her attention as she barked out, "EXPLAIN!"

"Master Valentin is stuck in a difficult position. Like you and Bridget, he believes Grand Master's obsession with Winchester is a mistake and dangerous, but Valentin's hands are tied. Viktor has become so paranoid and has hidden the hunter away in his own apartment. He won't allow any vampires to enter, except Valentin and that decision was made with great reluctance. Master Valentin is deeply worried that the talks are going badly and it's all because of the connection with Dean Winchester."

She took in his words and seemed to consider them in greater detail. After a while, she took in Ketch in greater detail. "Why would he send you? Why not come here himself?"

"Master Valentin believes that Grand Master Viktor is becoming more paranoid and he's currently locked in discussions, chairing the summit. He has asked me to speak quietly to you, because he can't. Viktor is so suspicious of everyone and both Bridget and Valentin fear he would sacrifice everything for the hunter. And, to quote Valentin directly… that MUST not happen."

Ketch let his words sink in. Eying the young vampire, he could tell she was thinking things through. "Hmmm. Even if I did help, what use or good could I be? Look at me. I'm the shell of what I once was, and that's all due to Grand Master's punishment. I'm also not allowed within 10 feet of Winchester. So pray tell, what does Valentin and Bridget think I could possibly do, that they can't do themselves? Besides, Viktor has total hatred and distrust for me, it's not like I can rock up to him and chat through things. So tell me, what do you think I could bring to this situation, especially as I'm not meant to even be here?"

"Valentin and Bridget both believe the time for talking has come to an end. They know that simple negotiation and persuasion will never convince the Grand Master to give up Winchester. But, they believe that if it looked like Dean escaped and it was made to look like one of the other Clans were behind it. Well then we would be able to 'kill two birds with the one stone' so to speak."

Kate seemed to be taking his proposal seriously, so he continued. "You see Mistress Kate, the Clans are all ready to kill one another. It's so unstable and the Grand Master can't see straight because of the connection with Winchester. But, both Bridget and Valentin believe that if Dean was to disappear and we could make it look like one of the Richsteins or Fischers did it, well then, we'd be able to move against the house. In the long run, this fixation with the hunter might actually be able to be productive for us. But neither Bridget or Valentin can be seen to be involved. We need someone that can get in past the guards and extract the human in question."

"Once he's out of here, I can provide some misdirection, making everyone think it was one of the Fischers or something. That will allow you time to get him out of the mansion and halfway across the estate. Then…. Well… you can dispose of the human anyway you see fit."

Watching the body language told Ketch that he had hooked the young and impressionable vampire. It was clear that she lived for recognition and acceptance and being able to carry out a mission on behalf of two of the most senior vampires in the clan was very appealing. There was also the added bonus of being able to avenge her past love by shedding the 'delicious' blood of Winchester as well as sticking it to her Grand Master.

"I'll do it! But when would be best to move?"

Attempting to keep his heart rate under control and his face from breaking out into a huge smile, Ketch bowed his head. "Excellent! I'll let both Bridget and Valentin know. In terms of timeframe, unfortunately we've a narrow window, which means you'll have to move now. The talks are not due to break for some time so it was suggested that this was the ideal time to make our move. If you would follow me, I can take you so far, then I must get back and let them know that you're executing the plan."

Ketch watched as Kate's eyes dilated at the very thought of executing the plan. He could only imagine what the female vampire was thinking about. Sighing, he hoped that Trevor had put things in place. He also needed to go and make sure he warned Valentin, Bridget and Valentin in the correct way. After all, he had to make this look like there was more enemies behind the walls in order to heighten the distrust. It was a risky move as any incident could lead to further strengthening of a 'ring of steel' around Winchester, but it was a risk he was willing to take.

Bowing his head, he make his excuses and left the apartment and in no time was making his way with Kate along the mansion towards the front of the house. As he neared the point of when he would have to separate, he stopped and pulled Kate in to the nearest abandoned room.

"I'm going to leave you know, but godspeed and may the … oh hell, may you get that piece of shit out of here." Smiling as he spoke, Kate seemed to be fully on board with her 'righteous' mission. Nodding in acknowledgement, Ketch quickly parted ways and made his way back towards the summit. Timing was going to be paramount and he had to make sure it was Bridget and Valentin that came to the rescue. If Viktor did, it was going to be over before it started and that simply wouldn't help the plan at all. Most likely it was going to end all things, most likely himself in the process. Taking a deep breath, he approached the Council chambers.

Kate's POV:

Returning to the mansion so soon had been a high risk strategy, but she knew she had to. After all, she was right about everything. Viktor was going to wreck everything the Volkov Clan had built and by extension, everything that she had built over the past few years. There was no way that little piece of shit, Winchester was going to throw a spanner in the works. Not now. Not never!

Using the high pressure of the summit talks, she had managed to slip in basically undetected and following a rather heated debate with her mate, Bridget, she was basically confined to quarters. It was clear that Bridget was torn between keeping Kate safe and obeying her father and Clan Grand Master. So it was with some relief, that Bridget had come to a compromise with her. Recalling the confirmation and the words, 'stay here and keep out of sight and out of trouble. I'll speak to Viktor and Valentin and get this squared. You look terrible. It's clear you belong here. I'll get this sorted.'

Back in the present, Kate was attempting to keep herself entertained when a sharp knock had come to the door. At first she was scared to answer it. 'What if it was one of Viktor's guards?' Thankfully, a strange voice whispered just loud enough for her vampire hearing to pick up through the thumping and the door, 'I'm here to talk to you. Grand Master Heinrich Richstein asked me to speak with you."

Her curiosity led to a quick opening of the door and the vampire was permitted access, but was only allowed a few feet into the apartment. "What do you want?"

"Forgive me, but Grand Master Richstein heard of your plight and wished to offer you, and your beloved Bridget, safe passage from here and protection."

Of all the words she thought she expected to hear, those were not the words. "Really?! And why do you think we would like or even require Master Richstein's protection?"

"It is our understanding that you've … how shall I say it… oh yes! You've fallen out of favour recently. And all due to a certain hunter that is currently being held prisoner somewhere in this very building. Am I not right?"

"You know I would believe you more if I knew who I was addressing." Kate couldn't help but bark back. She was already in trouble, and fearing that she was placing herself in even more danger was not advisable. The very fact that a rival to her clan was at her door was already disturbing, but should she really have been surprised, given how vocal she had been about her current expulsion.

"Though I am of no importance, I understand you need a name, if we are to build any type of trust. Very well, my name is Jonah and I am head of intelligence for the Richsteins and I report to the leadership. Please understand, I am here because your Grand Master is being foolish. His obsession with the human is putting all vampire kind at risk. Surely you must know this. Hasn't he not punished you for simply acting on your nature?"

She couldn't disagree, but she was going to need more before she could make any decision. "OK, so I have a name now, but why should Bridget and I need your protection?"

Stepping closer and into her personal space, the vampire replied, "because we all know that Grand Master Viktor is sick. His mind has been polluted by a witch's magic and it's only time before he kills us all. But my Grand Master knows too well as he has suffered too. Only earlier this evening Viktor nearly killed him, which we all know would have resulted in a bloody war, the likes that neither our clans has seen in over a millennia. That's why common sense must prevail."

As she listened she couldn't disagree. Viktor had been ruthless in his punishment and it was common knowledge amongst the Volkov clan members that he had become even more unstable in the last few days. Choosing to lock himself in the room with THAT human. But was it really worth betraying the clan? And what would Bridget think? She needed time to consider things.

"I think I need time to consider what to do. I hear what you are saying, but I need to think on this further. In the past I have been impulsive and it has led to the downfall of those I love the most. As much as I would happily like to deal with the 'Winchester' problem, I need to ensure that those I love are safe. I think it's time you left."

"Certainly, but you don't have too long. The talks are cranking up and the window for action is getting smaller. I don't want to put additional pressure on you, but if you chose to change your mind, please find me and find me soon. I will most likely be in the Richstein quarters if you need me. If I'm not there, I'll most likely be standing outside the Council chambers. Either way, get back to me as soon as you can."

Kate couldn't wait to get him out of the apartment and she sighed in relief to have the apartment back to herself. Unfortunately the time for thinking was short lived, when a second knock came to the door and one of the paid help, an Englishman, Ketch up or Ketch or something. Who cared, he was a dickhead, or so she thought, until he give her another option. One that was almost too good to be true, but as the message came from her beloved and from the Volkov Clan's second in command, then she could trust it. Oh how things must have changed so quickly in the past few hours, for Bridget to have done a complete u-turn. But, she trusted her beloved.

So it wasn't a surprise that she found herself a few feet from the entrance to Grand Master's quarters. Unfortunately, there were two guards standing to attention outside the entrance. It was posing a major problem, but as she considered what her next steps were she saw them talk into a radio and before she could blink, both guards were making their way down the corridor, away from the door. 'Thank you Mr Ketch'. With no further challenges or barriers between her and her goal she moved quickly down the corridor and entered the quarters.

Looking back, Kate wasn't sure what exactly had happened as soon as she entered Viktor's quarters. All she recalled was feeling the excitement of beginning her mission to save the Volkov Clan. So it was with some confusion she found herself restrained by none other than her beloved, Bridget.

It had only been seconds since she entered, but as her thoughts tried to focus, she remembered how the scent of that intoxicating blood had called to her immediately. Then all her self-control had left her. Instead of trying to find a way to break through the door and take Dean safely out of the mansion, she had snapped and began ramming the door in an attempt to get through to… 'Oh Goddess. I was going to rip his neck out. No, no, no, no, NO!'

The flashbacks came thick and fast as she recalled how her claws had extended and she had practically tried to scratch her way through the wood and steel enforced door. Though, in her defence, the goads from Winchester didn't help. It was obvious that the hunter had a death wish as he taunted her. She remembered his words, "Go on Kate. Come on in here! I thought you were all powerful and strong and could do whatever you wanted? … It's clear to see who wears the big boy pants in your relationship. Bridget must be the boss,… but then you always needed someone to look after you… being that you were so needy and pathetic."

She remembered how his insults had triggered a fit of kicking. At one stage she was making so much noise, it would have come as no surprise if Viktor had heard it a few floors down in the Council Chamber. Looking back, it was now clear how the human had really wanted her to come in and in his words 'eat me'. With a mind clear from the scent and smell of Dean Winchester's blood, she now believed the hunter was breaking, if not broken. He wanted to die and she had been in such a bloodlust that she hadn't considered that the greater punishment or revenge would have been to let him remain in his prison cell, so he could be the forever 'fuck toy' for Viktor. 'No better or fitting form of revenge was required.'

Unfortunately, as much as she wanted to dwell on that heart-warming thought she was faced with a furious lover as Bridget was in front of her and in an elevated position looking down. In fact, as she took in her surroundings, she realised that she was no longer in the Grand Master's quarters and had somehow been carted off to some prison cell, most likely deep in the basement of the mansion.

Looking down she saw she was strapped to an iron seat that was wielded to the floor and was secured by titanium based cuffs. 'Oh great, vampire proof!' Failing to resist testing the strength of the cuffs, she only succeeded in hurting her wrists, which only added to the other areas of pain that she had managed to accumulate in her attempt to release and kill Dean Winchester.

"Oh Kate, why did you do it? If you'd only stayed in your quarters. All we needed was some time. I could have got through to Viktor. You know… talked some sense into him to allow you back. But not now. Not after that little stunt.

It took a few minutes for Kate to really get a grasp of what Bridget was saying. At first she thought her lover and mate was transfixed on her out of control behaviour but as she began to break down Bridget's sentence she realised that neither Bridget or Valentin had a clear understanding of why she was in Viktor's quarters in the first place. As her brain worked things out, her mate and the Volkov second in command paced in front of her.

Valentin was furious. "You know we didn't need this crap. Viktor knows that someone attempted to steal him, but he doesn't know who yet, but it won't take him too long to realise that it was Kate. I mean let's face it, her scent's everywhere."

Bridget was equally as angry as she yelled in response. "I know brother. Don't scream and lecture me. I've already had this out with her and I know that I'm going to end up having the mother of all arguments with father. This is a cluster fuck. He's going to kill her Val. He's going to kill the only creature on this planet that I love. My mate, my KATE!"

On hearing her mate's words, Kate couldn't help but feel equally proud and ashamed at the same time. Despite everything, Bridget loved her and wanted to protect her, but she knew that the older vampire's protection would not be enough if she was compelled to give up her mate. It wasn't a matter of if, it was a matter of when.

"I get it Brid. I get it, but it doesn't excuse the fact that she was in there and was practically trying to rip the doors of its hinges when we found her. Can you imagine what would have happened if Viktor had been the one who walked in. I believe her fate would have been much worse than that of the good doctor, Busbee."

Though Kate hadn't been physically there for that sentence when it was passed, but she recalled how Bridget's face went white when she eventually shared that information. As she remembered, she realised just how serious the situation truly was.

It was then that she realised that neither vampires were talking about her. Looking upwards, she found two sets of eyes glaring down at her. "Well Kate, aren't you going to try and tell us what on earth you were doing?"

Deciding that spitting it all out was the best course of action she spoke. "I know I was only meant to quietly extract the hunter and take him off site to quietly dispose of, but I couldn't' help it. The moment I smelt his blood, I just freaked out and lost it. I'm sorry I fucked up the plan." Thankfully she had the good sense to keep her eyes lowered and head bowed when she spoke as she knew how close she was to execution.

Half expecting a swift death, if not a screaming session she was confused at the response from both vampires, "WHAT?" Looking up quickly she continued. "What do you mean what? Sure didn't you send me message via the Englishman, ketchup or Ketch or whatever his name is!"

Their expression told it all. "What do you mean? What message?... Kate, we've been locked in negotiations for most of the night. We haven't spoken to the Brit anytime in the past 24 hours. There's no way we'd order him to do anything as important as this would have been. At the very least, I would have used Koskin, if I had to use a human as a back channel. But I can assure you, I wouldn't have used him. I.."

Kate interrupted. "If it wasn't either of you, then who would have done…" She stopped mid sentence when she realised she had been played. "I'm so stupid, I should have realised I was being set up."

It was Valentin that interjected. "What do you mean? Kate, what is going on?"

"It's easier if I take a few steps back here. Look, before Ketch brought me your supposed message, I had another guest. This time it was one of the Richstein delegation. Called himself Jonah. Anyway, he made a compelling argument about Viktor losing it and that it was only a matter of time before things fell apart." Kate took her time as she repeated back word for word both conversations with Jonah and Ketch. By the end of the conversation, both older vampires had ceased pacing and looked concerned.

After a certain undisclosed amount of time, it was Valentin that broke the silence. "Phew! At this stage, I'm not sure who's manipulating this entire thing. I know Richstein's definitely in play but I'm not sure who this Ketch is working for."

Bridget interrupted. "Do you think he's working with Frederick? I mean he arrived just before the Fischer delegation and it would make sense that they'd want to grab Winchester as quickly as possible."

"Yes, you have a point, but we cannot be 100% certain. We know this Jonah tried to use Kate to steal, but if this Ketch is working for Fischer, then we can be sure that both clans are not working together. At least that's one thing we can 'take to the bank'. But, .."

Before Valentin could continue, Bridget added, "…That may be the case, but it doesn't resolve the problem that we currently have." Gesturing towards Kate, she continued. "Viktor will certainly kill Kate. He knows that there's been an incident, but instead of focusing on what's important – i.e. clan business, he's more worried about what happens to his pet. We need to do something. He can't kill Kate, I can't lose her. Valentin, we cannot allow Viktor to kill her. Not over a hunter, and especially not when there are others that could take the fall."

Valentin and Kate looked confused. Kate asked, "I'm not following you. If Viktor knows I broke into his quarters he's going to come after me. I don't see a win here. So what do you mean?"

"We can't undo what you've done Kate, but perhaps we can spin it in some way that will confuse things as well as give us more time to work out our next steps." Bridget looked stressed. It was an unusual look for her.

Up until then Valentin had stood contemplating the situation. He replied. "Maybe there's a way." As he took in confused expressions from both female vampires, he knew he needed to elaborate. "What I mean is that we know Viktor knows you were involved, but he doesn't know any of what you've told us, so we have a chance to create a back story that will work."

Both Kate and Bridget were hooked as the spoke at the same time, "go on".

"Say Kate was caught by you Bridget and in an attempt to restrain her, Kate escaped and is currently at large. In fact, we could believe that she's possibly anywhere by now. If Viktor believes you're loose then he's going to focus on capture moreso than why and who else may or may not have been involved."

Kate was following but she still couldn't see how this was going to benefit the overall situation. "OK, I get that me escaping is plausible, but won't that put Bridget in a dangerous position? I mean, he will know that it was Brid that found me and brought me out of the room. Is he really going to believe that I some how was able to get the best of her in a fight? Come on Master Valentin, I'm good, but I'm not that good. Bridget could destroy me if she so wanted. He's going to see right through this and he'll either think she's lying and hiding me somewhere or she let me go. Which means, she's fucked!"

It was Bridget that intervened. "Maybe… maybe not. I mean, yes, we could have struggled, but due to my emotional connection and attachment to you, I let my guard down. Yes, he'll be pissed, but he'll believe that my heart won out over my head so to speak. There'll probably be a screaming match, but if we time it correctly and tell him about a few minutes before the start of the next session, then he'll not be able to do anything. It'll make negotiations even harder and I'm sorry Val, but your job just got 100 times worse."

"Do you think it will work? I mean Bridget, he's going to be pissed, but we've got to give him something else to work with. You.." Kate had to interrupt Valentin. "Why don't you just tell him about Richstein's little proposal? Wouldn't that not help things?"

Both vampires seemed to contemplate the option. It was Bridget that spoke first. Kneeling down and taking hold of Kate's face, she softly replied. "I know it sounds like a good idea, but to tell Viktor a few minutes before the start of the most important negotiation that Heinrich tried to steal Dean from right under his nose will blow the entire summit, and there's just too much at stake for that to happen. Besides, it would be easier for you if you were just lured by Winchester's blood. If he thought you tried to steal Dean in order to give him to either Richstein or Fischer, he'd administer a fate worse than death on you. Dear Kate, that would not be an option, as I would most likely follow you to the true death."

Valentin continued. "You see Kate, as much as I would like to land Heinrich in it, I witnessed first hand earlier what Viktor can do. He has such powers and if he finds you he will obliterate you. If he thinks you were a traitor on behalf of any of the other clans he will destroy them and we'll end up at war. Everyone dies. NO! We have little choice. You will remain hidden. We'll say nothing of the Richstein plot, but I'll try and delay things until I get someone to get you off the estate."

Bridget nodded and added. "And what about this Ketch? He's walking about the mansion with access to wardings, security and Goddess knows what else. What will we do about him?"

Kate had almost forgotten about the treacherous human. Her anger increased everything she thought about how she had stupidly let herself be manipulated by the traitor. As she considered what his fate might be, it was Valentin that made the decision. "He could be working for anyone. Hell it could be one of our own clan. I mean let's face it, Winchester's blood is extremely addictive. Without it sounds too much like our Grand Master, but it could be anyone. All I can suggest is that we keep a closer eye on this Mr Ketch. See where he goes and who he talks to. Once we have better intelligence, then I will decide his fate and the fate of whoever he's working with."

It was clear to Kate that Bridget wasn't too happy with this approach, but there was little to no choice. Ketch could be working for anyone, there were just too many enemies inside the gate. All they could do was play for time and hope that an opportunity presented itself. Something that might ease Kate's position, if not exonerate her in some way. The latter was highly unlikely, but she trusted both elder vampires and she knew Bridget would die fighting for her. She just hoped that in the process, Dean Winchester would get caught in the crossfire.

Without further discussion, she was released from her restraints and Bridget led her down another corridor. At the end of it, there was a store room. At first Kate thought she was going to have to hide amongst the unwanted items, but as Bridget began moving some items around, she realised that there was a hidden room.

"Here we go." Bridget smiled as a door way opened and Kate saw a long lantern lit corridor appeared in front of her. "Don't get excited K. Not many know about these old rooms, but Viktor does. Let's just hope he's a little distracted to look closer to home. There's food and entertainment here. I'll try and get down to see you as soon as I can, but I don't know how father will take the news. He may totally distrust me and have me watched. I'll try and get to you in the next 8 to 9 hours. Hopefully we'll have bought enough time to save you." With those last words, Bridget embraced and kissed Kate deeply. Kate was in semi shock and was slow to relax into the rare form of emotion, but before the end she was a willing participant.

As both mates parted and Bridget moved to close the entrance, Kate lifted her head and said, "thank you Brid. I know you should hate me for disobeying you and for putting you in this position. I know I did wrong and I've put us all in jeopardy, but if it comes to it, I .. I. I will gladly give up my life for you. You didn't deserve this and you didn't deserve me."

Kate could tell Bridget wanted to say something, but a noise from somewhere nearby startled her into closing the door. With nothing but time and silence, Kate looked around the room and began to contemplate her life and what was going to happen. The more she consider her options the more she realised that by the end of this day, it was highly likely everything was going to change for everyone in the mansion. Something was in motion.