A/N - These chapters are just rolling off the assembly line. Fortunately, I've already written some of the next few chapters so they should be coming out relatively quickly - you shouldn't have to wait too long to find out what happens next. Of course, having a lot of down time helps with the writing process too. Anyways, I hope you all enjoy the chapter. Stay safe everyone!


Chapter 56

It was unusual for a Capture to make demands the moment they entered Flagstaff, even more unusual for those demands to be met. Hecate didn't stumble into the camp like a wounded animal the way most of the slaves did, she strode with her head high, emanating confidence and certainty. Her first demand was that someone bring her freshwater. A Recruit Legionary was quick to oblige. Her second demand was more brazen – she wanted to meet Caesar face to face.

Joshua thought this was an absurd request, but to humour her he approached the subject with his master when they all met in the War Tent for the debrief. To his surprise, Caesar agreed.

After the debrief, Joshua went to collect Hecate from the housing pen where all the slaves were kept for possessing but to his astonishment, he found her sitting outside The Pen with a few Legionaries. Each of them was eating their dinner ration, even Hecate. Joshua could see they were engaged in conversation but as he approached the murmuring ceased.

"Why is she not in The Pen?" Joshua growled.

The men all looked at one another with uncomfortable glances.

One of them dared to answer.

"She told us the conditions in The Pen weren't suitable for a woman carrying the Legate's child," the man said.

The Legate felt as though his body was being electrified. His gaze turned sharply to Hecate who merely sat on a footstool, eating a dinner meant for the men, not a slave.

Another demand she'd been granted.

"Come on," Joshua barked as he took her by the arm and pulled her off the stool. Her meal fell to the ground, but he didn't care.

"Will Caesar meet with me?" she asked, her voice as serene as a songbird.

"Yes," Joshua grumbled.

He led her up the path to the top of the largest hill in the camp where Caesar's personal home was built, like a throne, cast high above his subjects so they'd always gaze up upon him.

Joshua knocked at the door.

"Enter," came Caesar's deep voice from within. Joshua entered.

One would think Caesar's home would have been adorned with the finest furniture, décor, and furnishings the wastes had to offer but he was a man of simple tastes. Apart from a painting of a gold bull, the wooden walls were bare. He had a modest kitchen arrangement with only one chair at his dining place. The living space perhaps had the most ornamented piece of furniture, a chaise lounge nestled between several bookshelves with books of all kinds.

Joshua first recalled that when he'd met Caesar, it was their passion for literature that nurtured their instant connection. Over the years, their discussion of famous authors, rare volumes and philosophy diminished. Now everything was a battle plan, and the only wisdom sought from these books were the ways one could conquer their enemies.

Caesar emerged from his bedroom and closed the door. Few had been permitted to ever see Caesar's bedroom. The Son of Mars kept his most valuable possession, his auto-doc, a secret from most.

"So, this is her," he began as he moved across the floor, much like that of a male lion coming in to inspect a female.

"It is," the Legate confirmed.

Unexpectedly, Hecate graciously curtsied before Caesar.

"My master, I am but your loyal servant," she said, the words dripping like a sweet poison from her lips.

This made Caesar smile. A real smile. Not one that hid any malice. He was genuinely pleased.

Casually she raised herself and tilted her head to look to Joshua with deep brown eyes that swallowed the light.

"That will be all, Legate," she uttered.

Joshua was stunned, frozen by her blatant order to dismiss him from Caesar's presence. Him! The Legate! How dare she!

"I don't take …" Joshua began but it was Caesar's words that stopped him.

"I will be fine, Joshua. You may go," his master said.

Joshua was furious and he did not attempt his hide his contempt from either of them as he turned and left without another utterance.

When he was outside, he just about stomped his way black down to the main camp muttering his disapprovals under his breath.

"Whoa, easy now!" someone called out.

Joshua glanced up just in time to avoid the collision with Athos. The Centurion was carrying several long spears in both hands, clearly on his way to training. It was dusk. The sun would be setting in an hour. Why was Athos always training? Joshua thought. They'd just gotten back to Flagstaff an hour or so ago.

"You alright?" Athos asked.

"Fine," grumbled Joshua.

Athos gave a 'yeah right,' kind of smirk.

"Not enjoying the first moments of being home and seeing your wife?" Joshua said, changing the subject.

"She's working late in the medical tent. Three recruits got bit when they tried to catch spiders for their little fighting ring," Athos informed him.

"Survival of the fittest," Joshua teased.

Athos chuckled.

"Did you have a chance to see if the Commander reported in?" Joshua asked.

"Which one?" Athos asked with a cocky smirk.

Joshua was not really in the mood to continue with the humour.

Athos didn't wait for a response, he just continued.

"Honestly I haven't even had a chance to talk to anyone in Aramis' unit."

Joshua didn't like not knowing and said,

"I'm going to check."

"I'll come with," Athos offered.

As they walked Joshua thought about his relationship with Athos. It was something he'd never given much thought to before. Were the two of them friends? He couldn't tell. Over the years they'd become less formal with each other. They even knew each other's secrets and treacheries. Joshua was the Legate. That role didn't come with friends but if he had to have people on his side, he supposed Athos was one of them.

Athos and Joshua entered the Frumentarii cabin. Picus sat at the main dining table in the center of the large cabin with Ulysses and Colt wandering about. Their faces turned gaunt at the sight of the Legate and Centurion.

"Oh fuck," Picus muttered.

Joshua narrowed in on him.

"We were coming to tell you, Legate!" Picus suddenly exclaimed.

"Tell me what?" Joshua snarled.

"It's … well, it's not good," Ulysses said, unable to look Joshua in the eye. "I just learned the news myself."

"Say it!" Athos snapped

"The Commander was captured," Picus spoke up.

"What?! What do you mean captured?!" Athos hollered as he took only two strides to get himself across the room and took Picus by the cuff of his collar.

"We've been trying to deal with it internally," Colt tried. "Caesar doesn't know yet!"

"Explain!" Joshua said, his own emotions feeding off Athos' fury.

"The NCR has him. In Shady Sands. At least … that's the last we heard," Colt informed.

"How long has it been since his capture?" Joshua demanded.

Picus looked very uneasy now and mumbled,

"A couple months…?"

"A couple months?!" Athos hollered.

"Maybe a bit more," Picus winced.

Athos threw the man to the ground. Picus stayed there.

"What the fuck?!" Athos yelled as he paced around the cabin. "You told him not to go on that mission!"

Joshua was trying to collect his thoughts.

"Do we know if the Commander's alive?" Joshua asked.

Athos shot him an icy stare.

"Of course, he's alive," Athos snarled.

Joshua's brain couldn't handle this right now. They'd just completed a massive campaign with the Sons and Daughters, one that had taken months of planning and execution. They hadn't even been back longer than a couple of hours and now he'd have to mount a rescue mission to Shady Sands to get Aramis back.

"They're doing everything they can to get him back," Picus tried.

"Who?" Joshua commanded.

"Vulpes … Vulpes has been conducting operations in Shady Sands. Von and Deegan have been assisting as well," Picus said.

"I can go to Shady Sands to assist," Ulysses offered.

"No, I'm going," Joshua announced as he turned for the door.

Surprisingly it was Athos whose hand grabbed Joshua's upper arm, stopping him.

"Wait," Athos said.

Joshua spun and glared at the Centurion.

"If I know my brother, he'll get out of this … we … we have pressing matters here," Athos said, and Joshua detected the bitterness in his voice.

Joshua was not alright with this. Aramis was always the first to appear whenever someone needed rescue, and Athos was ready to leave her to fend for herself – his sister.

"Get out," Joshua snapped to Picus, Colt, and Ulysses.

The next moment Picus and Ulysses were out of the cabin leaving just Athos and Joshua.

"I can't sit here while she's in their hands!" Joshua exclaimed, his voice low, but his tone serious.

"You think I like doing nothing? The truth is we can't do any more than what's likely already being done. Vulpes, Deegan, and Von are there. They are fiercely loyal to Aramis. I believe they are doing everything possible to get their leader back," Athos said.

"What if it's not enough," Joshua said, feeling his chest tighten.

"Legate please," Athos began, his voice sounding like it was about to break. "I have to believe it's enough. I have to believe they will bring back my sister. We just got Hecate back here. Her warriors are still out there, and I fear there's more going on here than we're aware of … and I know you feel it too."

Joshua was plagued with the idea that they were simply dismissing Aramis. Athos was right, Deegan, Von, and Vulpes were capable men but Joshua felt it had to be him, he needed to be there.

"Caesar needs us here," Athos affirmed. "They will bring Aramis home."

Joshua looked to Athos and thought how strange it was to hear Athos' devotion to Caesar. Athos was willing to put the mission above all else, even his sister. Joshua would have been impressed with the Centurion's loyalty if he believed it was warranted.

"I … I don't know," Joshua felt his own voice betray him.

"We need you here … I need you here. Without you here it's just Reed and you'd be leaving us with the Sons and Daughters. You have the relationship with Hecate, not us," Athos begged.

Joshua knew Athos was right but that didn't make the situation easy for him to stomach. Staying here meant trusting others to save Aramis – if she was still … no, of course, she was alive. He couldn't think like that.

"Alright," Joshua murmured. "I'll stay."

Athos didn't smile, there was nothing to be pleased about. This decision wasn't the right one, but it was the necessary one.


Aramis was being moved today. The doctor had cleared her medically and she'd been told she was well enough to be moved back to the black site.

As Aramis sat in the back seat of the vehicle, she could only think about what was to come. The hum of the engine as it meandered through the narrow streets of Shady Sands drowned out the conversation taking place between her guard detail.

She eyed the four troopers with callous indifference knowing what their fates were to be. On Dex's order, they were to take a specific route through the city. They were not told the importance of their companion who sat in the middle of the back's bench seat, only that it was important they get 'him' to the location in their orders.

It was pretty obvious who Aramis belonged to. Clad in basic Legion regalia, likely stripped from a dead Recruit, Aramis resembled a shell of her former glory, however, no one was capable of stripping away her identity as Commander of the Frumentarii.

As they drove the route Aramis sat in stoic silence, waiting. This had all been Dex's plan. He'd arranged her transport but took it upon himself to keep it as low key as possible, that way he was able to literally change her identity from the moment she left her medical room to when she was put in the vehicle with her escorts. A quick change of appearance in a utility closet meant she went in as Eyre, Legion whore, and assassin, and came out as Aramis, Commander of the Frumentarii.

"I hope they execute this son of a bitch," one of the troopers, the one riding in the front passenger seat spoke up just loud enough over the engine for Aramis to hear.

"Piece of shit," the one to her right added.

Aramis rolled her eyes.

Suddenly the buttstock of one of the rifles collided with her stomach. Aramis keeled over as the force took all the air out of her chest, and she struggled to breathe. All the troopers were laughing. When Aramis felt the sensation ease, she glanced up.

"What's a few more bruises?" the trooper to her left said. They all laughed again.

Aramis saw something down the road. A blockade? A smile parted her lips.

"I'd watch the road," Aramis mumbled.

"What was that?" the same trooper asked. Aramis gestured up ahead with a slight head nod.

"What the fuck is this?" the driver asked as he slowed the vehicle.

In the middle of the road was an overturned vehicle, exactly like theirs. There was no one around. Everywhere appeared deserted. Dex had done well to move troops to another region, keeping this sector bare.

Their vehicle came to a stop as the troopers examined the blockade before them with mild concern.

That would be the mistake that would cost them their lives.

Suddenly the street erupted with small explosions that swallowed their vehicle, reducing visibility to nothing.

"Shit we're under attack!" Aramis heard one of the trooper's yell.

"Murph get us out of here!" the trooper to her left shouted. They were all gripping their semi-automatic assault rifles, but no one dared get out of the vehicle and confront the unknown.

Aramis heard a loud crack and the driver of their vehicle slumped forward.

"Shit! Murph is hit!" the passenger yelled.

"We need to go!"

Everything was pandemonium. Aramis couldn't see an inch beyond any window, but she knew exactly what was going on, after all, they'd planned for this.

The rear passenger door abruptly opened and the trooper who'd been sitting to Aramis' right was dragged out of the vehicle and disappeared into the smoke, his screams echoing until they were silenced. Several shots rang out and the passenger window exploded with glass. The trooper who'd been in the passenger seat made odd jerking movements as her body filled with bullets before she too slumped forward.

The only trooper left decided to make a run for it. He jumped from the vehicle, right into the blade of a knife that punctured his abdomen. He fell back into the vehicle and slid down the metal before crumpling at the base of the tire.

The only sound now was the crackling of the fires all around.

"Commander?" a voice called out. Aramis recognized it right away.

"Vulpes!" she yelled back.

A figure manifested in the smoke - Vulpes. She couldn't believe she was looking at the face of the young man. Two more faces appeared beside him – Hard Tack and Deegan. Aramis felt everything become lighter when she saw her comrades.

"Grab him!" Deegan said as he nudged Vulpes forward. Vulpes reached in the vehicle and used a key he must have taken off one of the troopers to free her from the cuffs that had secured her to the vehicle's floor.

"Here, put this on," Hard Tack said as he draped a large cloak-like garment over Aramis.

"Let's move!" Aramis ordered and they all ran through the narrow streets away from the carnage.

They ran, for how long Aramis couldn't gauge, nor did she know where they were going – but the others seemed to know. They ran toward a building, swung open a large metal door and everyone ran inside. The small garage-like space was dimly lit but Aramis made out the faces of the other men, mostly Speculatores, who'd been waiting here for their return. Von was already rushing across the floor and embraced Aramis in a tight hug.

"Fuck Commander! It's good to have you back!" he told her, and Aramis thought she saw a tear in the man's eye.

Aramis wouldn't let this moment be spoiled with any of the truths she brought with her. Right now, she was back with her men, she was with her brothers.

The next to pull her into a tight hug was Hard Tack and Aramis felt her own arms give him an extra squeeze. It was so good to see him.

"We didn't give up on you," he whispered in her ear.

Once everyone had been given the chance to welcome Aramis back in their own way they got straight to business. They needed to escape Shady Sands. Fortunately, they had a plan and Aramis knew it would be a success because – well – all this had been arranged.

This had been the plan all along; her departure from the medical clinic, the route, the expendable troopers – everything. Dex had seen to it that the plan fell right into the hands of her men, who she knew would go to any length to use the information to plot their attack, and she'd been right.

"Wish we could let you rest, Commander but we gotta be quick. If we give them too much time this whole area will be crawling with troopers. We gotta go now," Von told her. He handed her a Ranger uniform. "Put this on … Sir."

Aramis figured out the next part of the plan as she watched all the men put on the NCR trooper attire. They'd look like another patrol just out searching the area for the escapee.

Aramis put the duster coat she'd been given over top of her basic Legion armour. The mask and helmet were a new sensation, one she didn't mind. Together they all departed the garage casually, walking in single file down the streets of Shady Sands. No one challenged the group but as time went on, more troopers seemed to be in the area.

The group turned down a very narrow section of the road and stopped a sewer culvert on the ground. Hard Tack lifted the heavy piece of steel and one by one they all hopped down the narrow cement tube. The smell was unpleasant, but no one complained or even muttered a word for that matter. Silently they crawled down the storm drain for at least several kilometres before reaching the end where the long tube drained into a small creek - well beyond the walls of Shady Sands.

They'd made it.


Reed had been struggling all day with how he would approach the subject of the escape with Tahnee. Would she be angry? Probably, she'd find a way to be angry with all this, even if it did mean saving her and the baby. He settled on being straightforward about it all and told himself he would be strong and demand she go, even if she refused to leave without him. He'd lie and tell her he'd find a way to be with her soon if necessary.

When he entered his cabin, he saw her at the kitchen table, sewing the tears in his armour from everyday use. On the table, his 9mm lay splayed out, taken apart, cleaned and oiled. She'd never let him have a worn-out uniform or unclean weapon. He loved her for that. Her eyes glanced up at him from her task and her smile made him pause in the door. How could he let her go? He moved across the room and sat at the table. He had to, for her and their baby.

"I have good news," he began.

She raised a brow.

His voice lowered to a whisper.

"You and the baby are getting out of here. I'm arranging it all. You'll be free." He was cautious to leave the Legate's name out of this. He dared not think about her capture, but it was best for all if minimal names were used in this plot.

"And what about you?" Tahnee questioned.

"I can't … not yet. It would pull too much of Caesar's rage for us both to flee … but I will do everything I can to get to you again," Reed promised.

"If you don't go, I don't," she said stubbornly.

"Tahnee…" his voice trailed into a preaching order. "Think of you and our baby … you wanted an option to be free of this place, well here it is."

Tahnee's eyes fell to his armour in her hands. She gripped it tightly.

"Where would you send us?" she asked.

"New Canaan," Reed said. "I have contacts there. I believe they will help you … us."

"You trust them?" she questioned with apprehension. Her brow-raising and she leaned back in her chair.

"I do. They will help you ... keep you safe."

"How will we get there?"

"Athos. He's going to get you there safely ... but there's one thing I must ask of you," Reed added.

Tahnee leaned forward inquisitively.

"You must take a second child," Reed said.

"Another? Whose?"

"Hecate's," he answered.

"The witch? I don't want her child anywhere near ours! I can't," she tried but Reed cut her off.

"This is important and the only way this plan will happen. The child will be born around the same time as ours. You must take both children to New Canaan and most importantly you must raise them both as your own," he said, more demanded.

Tahnee frowned and said,

"All right."

Reed took the armour from her, placed it down on the table, leaned in and kissed her. He wouldn't let her see the tears that were forming in his eyes. When his lips touched hers, he felt the wetness on her own cheeks. He lifted her off the small wooden chair and carried her to the bed.

They undressed slowly, careful not to break their kiss for too long and when he slipped inside her it was as if it were the first time all over again. He touched every part of her with his fingers, kissed her deeply and moved inside her in rhythm with her moans. He knew it would be months before she left him, but he'd be sure to spend every moment he could with her until that day.

When he felt her body tense, he knew she was close, and he timed himself, so he felt his own release at the same time. She crashed down into his arms and they lay there, holding each other. Reed never wanted moments like this to end but he found himself smiling at the thought of her running on green grass with their child, laughing and playing and best of all – free and safe from this place.


Hecate emerged from Caesar's cabin feeling triumphant. It had been easy to seduce the so-called "Son of Mars," he was, much to everyone else's dismay, just a man. Her eyes fell on her escort, one who called himself Cerberus. Fitting for this man, he was just Caesar's dog after all.

"Caesar has informed me that you will be staying in a secure cabin of your own right over here," Cerberus told her.

"Up here? With the rest of the higher ranks?" she questioned trying to sound innocent.

"Caesar has moved someone out of theirs so that he may keep you close to … keep an eye on you," Cerberus said with disdain dripping from his mouth.

Hecate was pleased with this. There she'd have easier access to her pawns and overtime gain their trust. The goddess had foreseen it.

On their way down the mound where Caesar had his perch, she saw the Legate, Joshua Graham making his way up. As they approached each his face displayed a frown while she returned it with a smile.

"My Legate," Cerberus uttered as they neared.

"Where are you taking her?" the Legate asked.

"To her quarters at the request of Caesar. She's to have Aramis's cabin," Cerberus said, once again allowing his personal opinion to reflect in his tone.

"Aramis's?! The Commander will be returning shortly. I doubt he'd be thrilled sharing his accommodations with this Dissolute!" the Legate tried.

"I would agree but this order came from Caesar himself. His reasoning was that the Commander never seems to be around so why waste the space," Cerberus groaned.

The Legate tossed Hecate a warning glare, but she maintained her grin. Why did he seem so upset with her new living quarters? Maybe he was just upset because she smelled of Caesar's sweat and semen.

"Thank you, Cerberus, for taking me this far but I'm certain the Legate can take it from here, after all, we have much to discuss by way of bringing my warriors here," Hecate said, knowing this would get under the skin of both men.

Cerberus looked to the Legate with an 'are you kidding me?' glance that the Legate seemed to echo. Hecate could almost see the upper lip on the Legate's mouth twitch in frustration.

"All good, Cerberus," he groaned.

The Legate took her by the arm and urged her forward with a forceful pull.

"Come on," he barked.

Hecate followed without a fuss as he led her halfway down the hill then turned towards another cabin.

"Is this where I'll be staying?" she pestered.

"No, this is my cabin, we're going to have a chat – just like you said," he instructed.

Hecate grinned and when they were both inside, she spun on him, wrapping her arms around his neck and beaming up at him.

"Get off me," he snapped as he pushed her hands away and moved into the space. "I don't want to be a part of your sick game, nor will I tolerate you disrespect in front of Caesar or anyone else for that matter."

His voice was raising, and she just felt more in power. How was it that the men here were so threatened by a woman who pushed back a little?

"My Legate, you have nothing to fear from me. You are the father of this child. You will always be the object of my affection. Caesar, well, that's just good politics," she said sweetly.

"There are no politics here. It's Caesar's word and that's that … and I am no one's object," he added with a hiss through gritted teeth.

Hecate moved for him again. He remained in place.

"I'm sorry if I have offended you, but just think what we can accomplish here together. I'm not confined to a cage-like the others. I can be of service to you," she cooed as she circled him like a predator stalking her prey. "Starting with the basic needs of any man." When she was behind him her hand touched his shoulder, slid down the front of his chest and she rested her chin in the nape of his neck. He didn't protest, nor did he pull away.

He chuckled.

She raised a brow.

"What's so funny?" she asked, kissing the back of his neck.

"Look around you, this whole place is a cage. You may able to trick your mind with fancy delusions of rising about your current situation but believe me, just when you think you've gotten the upper hand over this place, the reality always comes back with another heavy dose," he lectured.

"Then why spoil the good moments like this?" she spoke softly in his ear as she felt his growing erection through the hem of his pants. She slowly lowered his zipper and snaked her hand beneath the fabric until she felt his soft skin in her hand.

Maybe the Legate was strong most of the time, but now was not one of those moments as he turned around abruptly, lifted her into the air, wrapping her legs around his waist and carried her over to his bed. He climbed on top of her, nearly ripping off her clothes.

She laughed and let him play the dominant role.

He spun her over, so she lay on her stomach then she felt his hands caress either side of her waist, lifting her slightly to meet him. His member poked at her entrance and without any hesitation, he slammed into her, hard, with anger.

She loved how she bothered him so much, to make him act this way.

He thrust deep, hard and with little regard for her own satisfaction but that was alright by her. She'd accomplished what she had intended.

"Mmm yes, don't be gentle. Make me yours!" she cried out, playing into the act.

"Shut up!" the Legate snarled.

She laughed.

"Come on, is that all you've got?" she teased.

"I said shut up!" the Legate warned as his pace quickened. He reached down, placing a hand on her neck and pushing her down into the mattress. Another hand reached around and cupped her breast, squeezing tightly.

Maybe he had some fire, after all, she thought.

"You going to make me take it all?" she taunted.

The Legate just seemed to be growling and she knew what was coming. With a final, forceful thrust he poured his seed into her. She felt the warmth build inside her and a wide grin cracked her lips.

He slid off her and put himself away. He grabbed her clothes and tossed them at her feet on the bed.

"Get dressed," he muttered.

Hecate obliged, dressing in her usual attire, trying to ignore the uncomfortable wetness that leaked between her legs.

"Now can we discuss business?" he groaned as he splashed cool water from his washbasin into his face.

"Discuss away," she obliged.

"Where are your warriors right now?" the Legate asked.

"I assume they've made it back to Ouroboros by now," she said honestly.

"Why aren't they coming here?!" he said, his voice getting more agitated.

"Because Caesar doesn't need them here," she replied.

"What do you mean doesn't need them here?!"

"Caesar and I have an understanding. My warriors are best utilized in Ouroboros. So long as I remain here, they, and I, remain loyal to him," she said.

Joshua did not seem amused by this.

"That was not our deal," he said in anger.

"It's the new deal – the one I made with the Son of Mars."

Hecate loved this game but when he rounded on her and glared at her with such hostility, she thought he may actually strike her. She placed her hand on her abdomen to diminish his rage.

"Get out," he snapped.

"Come now, there's no reason for this jealousy. Caesar has a brilliant plan and I'm more than happy to oblige. I would have thought this development would have please you," she said, trying not to sound too insulting. "Besides, I don't know where my new accommodations are."

The Legate opened the door, sand and a wave of hot air entered the cabin. He pointed somewhere off in the distance.

"That one right there, now get out," he ordered.

Hecate moved for the door. She reached for his cheek to kiss him, but he moved away. Such a scornful creature he was.

"Once Aramis comes back and that … thing is out of you, you're out of there and in The Pens where you ought to be," he sneered. "And the Commander WILL be back … and then this little game of yours comes to an end."

Hecate smiled calmly.

"I look forward to meeting this, Aramis," she said politely.

"Don't. The Commander won't fall for your tricks and antics. He will instantly hate you and if you don't start playing by our rules, he will be dangerous … to you and that child," he warned.

Aramis raised a brow; he sparked her curiosity. She loved a challenge and this Aramis sounded like a true contender.

"No leave," he snapped as he put a hand on her back and ushered her out the door.

Hecate heard him slam the door behind her.

Game on.


Eating cooked game on a spit over a fire was a luxury Aramis had long taken for granted. The sound as fat sizzled, dripping onto the wood coals, how she missed the smoky, charred flavour of the meat.

Around her, the men were laughing, sitting around the fire, taking in the mission's success. Aramis couldn't help but feel the infectious warmth of the scene. Hard Tack approached her with her armour in hand.

"Couldn't leave this behind," he told her with a wink.

She graciously accepted her old armour as he sat beside her.

"How you holding up?" he asked.

"You know," she deflected.

He smirked.

"You were in there a long time," he said, and his eyes wandered up to the large scar on the side of her head. "I doubt that was a particularly good day."

Aramis' hand reached up and felt the risen scar tissue that traced along her temple like a tiny river.

"It wasn't the ideal vacation," she said with a faint smirk.

"We can talk about it later," he said as he reached out and pulled some meat off the spit, handing her a large chunk. They both ate in silence as the men told stories of past adventures and embellished the details of Aramis' rescue.

Eventually, the fire died out and Aramis retired to a small tent they had made up for her. She took off the NCR Ranger outfit and slipped into her own armour, surprised at how lose it felt all around her. Once again, she'd lost so much weight.

She lay on the bedroll staring up at the ceiling of the faded canvas. Sleep wasn't coming. Everything was so quiet. Too quiet. Her mind took the silence and created its own environment, meant to torment her. When she closed her eyes, she still saw the red tint like the lights of the white room were still beaming down at her. She could still hear the sounds of screams and crying on the audio loop, blasting from the loudspeaker. Her muscles tensed, waiting for the next beating that she told herself wasn't coming but her own mind didn't believe her, and her body reacted.

Aramis stepped out of the tent and into the darkness. She walked over to the fire and poked at the burning coals.

"Can't sleep?" Hard Tacks voice came from the blackness that surrounded her.

"No," she said honestly.

"Come, sit." he offered, and his body materialized on the other side of the fire. He tapped the ground beside her.

She was happy to oblige.

They sat in silence for a few minutes, just enjoying the warmth of the fire. Finally, Aramis spoke up.

"I wouldn't have gotten myself into all these messes if he were still around," she admitted.

Hard Tack smirked and said,

"No? I don't think he ever had much control over you. Once you make up your mind, you commit. If it wasn't this, it would have been something else."

Aramis let out a slight chuckle.

"I just miss him so much," she said.

"Yeah," he groaned. "I do too … but he wouldn't want either of us to dwell on his death. I know this for a fact. He was someone who appreciated every minute of life he had, especially on the days that seemed to be on borrowed time with you. He'd want you to move on and find the joys of life again."

Aramis was surprised how genuine Hard Tack sounded at that moment.

"You made him a better person, Aramis," he went on. "You were able to take a broken animal and turn him into a man. You gave him purpose. His gift to you was that he showed you that you're capable of so much more when you take down your walls."

Aramis gave him an odd look. He was looking right at her now and said,

"You may have to wear this armour to cover up a part of you, but don't let that armour and everything it represents be what defines you. Don't close yourself off to everything else life has to offer."

"How do you escape this reality?" Aramis asked.

"We're lucky, since we're not allowed in Flagstaff we make living out here our meaning. Caesar has better things to do than wonder what his Speculatores are up to. So long as our reports keep coming in, he leaves us to our own devices, whatever that might be," he said and let a wide grin play across his face.

"What?" Aramis asked, noting his odd smile.

"I actually have a girl back in New Reno … we have a daughter," he said candidly.

"Really?!" Aramis questioned.

"Yup! Best women in my life. Cali works for the Mordino family. They rent a room in his Casino. Not the greatest place to raise our daughter but Eve is still very young, only two. Eventually, when we can both get out, we will," he told her. "There's a place north of here, giant mountains and blue lakes, untouched by the bombs. That's where I'll build us a home."

Aramis smiled. She liked hearing his plan and it gave her hope that one day she'd have something like it.

"Why not go now?" she asked.

"Cali's dad was a gambler. Gambled away everything – even his daughter. When he died, she inherited his debt. We don't have the caps to pay it off, but we will someday," he said.

"That bad?" Aramis probed.

"We still owe over twenty thousand caps. More than most ever have in their lifetime," he answered. "The boys help me too. We sell the junk we come across on our missions to local traders. We'll get there one day."

"I'm hopeful for you," Aramis said honestly.

"Thanks," he said with a smile. "You should try to get some sleep, even if it's out here."

Aramis leaned back and closed her eyes. Having Hard Tack beside her must have been just enough comfort because she was able to find sleep. It wasn't deep and she woke up often, but at least it was something.

Not a day went by that Joshua didn't pass by the Frumentarii cabin and ask the men if there'd been any word about Aramis. He usually passed by twice, once in the morning and another at dusk. Each day it was the same answer – nothing. A couple of weeks had gone by since he'd heard the news of her capture and every night, he prayed to God that she'd make it back alive.

These couple of weeks had been difficult.

He hated watching Hecate leave Aramis' cabin each day, wander up to Caesar's and stay for several hours. Briefs were often delayed on account of Hecate and Caesar's 'meetings.' Everything as being interrupted on account of her, yet Caesar seemed content with it all and that made Joshua furious. The only person he could take all his pent-up rage out on was Hecate when she'd show up at his cabin each night and he'd take her to his bed, or a chair, or a table and exact his wrath. He hated himself for allowing her to have this much power over him, but he found himself in a vicious circle of lust and rage.


Finally, the day came when the gates opened and in walked Aramis, or something that resembled Aramis between Deegan and Vulpes. Joshua's heart pounded, almost painfully in his chest at the sight of her. She was skinny, way too skinny and … the scar … the scar on her head. What the hell was that from?! Joshua waited patiently as Athos and Reed greeted her with such jubilation it made him jealous that he couldn't scoop her up, hug her and tease her as they could. After a few minutes, he moved forward, breaking up the joyous moment and addressed her directly.

"Welcome back, Commander," he said in a professional tone.

"My Legate," she said kindly, with a fist crossed over her chest out of respect.

"When you're settled, come to my cabin. I would speak with you before we debrief Caesar," he ordered.

"Of course," she answered.

It took tremendous willpower to turn and leave, allowing the men to continue their reception.

He returned to his cabin and waited patiently. She took longer than he expected but when there came a knock at his door, he just about flung it open to find her standing there.

"Come in," he offered as he stepped aside.

When the door was closed, he pulled her into a tight hug, clasping her frail body in his wide arms.

"I was beyond worried," he told her.

When her arms wrapped around him, he felt a warmth long thought gone return to his body.

"I'm so sorry!" she told him. "I shouldn't have gone!"

"Are you all right?!" he questioned.

"Fuck … I don't know … it's all so fucked up," she said as she broke away and paced around the room.

"What happened to your head?" he asked.

She turned and looked at him, so much pain in her eyes, and frowned.

"I tried to stop it. I tried to end it all," she said, her voice cracking. "But I failed."

Joshua was around her again, her arms holding her as she buried her face into his chest. She wasn't crying, she was trembling, like she was reliving the fear and pain she must have endured for all those months. He wanted to take it all away, all her suffering but he didn't know-how.

"You're safe. You're back. They can't hurt you anymore," he promised. "I wanted to go get you so badly … but." He paused, not wanting to make it sound like he nor Athos didn't have her as a priority. "But I just couldn't leave … by the time I found out Picus told me there was a plan to get you out. Not knowing, not being able to help … I'm so sorry … I should have done more."

"It's ok," she murmured. Her grip around him tightened and he felt ashamed, he didn't deserve her forgiveness.

He placed his hands on her shoulders and pulled them both apart so he could examine her more closely.

"You're a bit too skinny for my liking," he teased with a playful smile.

She returned it.

"They didn't let me at the buffet," she jested back.

"I'll make sure you get whatever you need to be well again," he told her.

She smiled but it faded instantly to an inquisitive stare.

"The Sons and Daughters. What happened?" she queried.

Joshua took a deep breath.

"Well … we won … I think. Hecate surrendered and … honestly, I have no clue what's happening now," he answered truthfully.

Aramis took a seat at his dining table.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"It can wait, you just got back," Joshua deflected.

"Tell me," she insisted.

Joshua said.

"Hecate is here. Her warriors are not. She's got Caesar wrapped around her finger … or so it seems. She spends hours alone with him in his cabin. She claims they are discussing the assimilation of her tribe and Caesar deflects all my questions. I fear there's a lot more going on. I don't think she's planning to assimilate; I think she's planning her defection, but I can't prove anything," he told her.

"It's only her that came back with you?"

"By the time we launched our attack, her fighting force was nowhere to be seen and we basically captured the infirm or too old to fight. She surrendered within minutes. Months of planning, scouting and for what? A five-minute battle where she just opts out and surrenders. I can't figure any of it out," he said.

Aramis took a deep breath.

"Well, I'm here now. Maybe I'll be able to flush out her plan," she said.

"That's what I was hoping."

There came another knock at the door.

Joshua hesitated to answer it.

Aramis stood up but Joshua raised a hand and she sat back down slowly.

He moved for the door and opened it.

Hecate stood there, a wide smile beaming across her lips.

"I hear the Commander of the Frumentarii is back. I was told he was with you, so I came by to meet him," she said as she pushed her way past him and entered the cabin.

"What the fuck is this?" Aramis suddenly snapped.

Joshua spun around and saw that she was now standing up.

"This is the Legate's cabin! Get the fuck out! If we want to speak with you, we will send for you!" she yelled.

Hecate actually stopped mid-step and raised a brow.

"Did I not make my point clear?" Aramis continued. Suddenly she drew her 9mm from her hip holster, racked the slide back to load it and aimed it right at Hecate.

Joshua was paralyzed.

"I said get out!" Aramis hollered and there was a loud crack. Joshua flinched as dust sprayed up in the air. A tiny hole at Hecate's feet told him Aramis had just shot the ground. Jesus! He thought.

Hecate shrugged, turned and left without uttering a single sound.

Joshua looked at Aramis who was now frowning.

"She just struts around like that?!" Aramis questioned.

"Pretty much," Joshua admitted.

"Un-fucking believable," she snapped.

Joshua winced knowing he had to tell her sooner than later.

"There's more," he began.

Aramis raised a brow.

Joshua mustered his courage.

"She's living in your cabin."


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