A/N - Sorry for the delay! You'll hopefully be happy to know that this chapter is nearly double in length of my usual chapters. I've already written out the next five so get ready for some fast updates! I love your comments. Thank you so much to my loyal followers and welcome all the new!


WARNING - GRAPHIC SEXUAL AND EXCPLICIT CONTENT


Chapter 61

It took just over two weeks for Seekra along with the other 'essential supplies' to arrive at The Fort. Reed and his men had been their escort, one of the final pieces to arrive. Athos was thrilled to have both his wife and his best friend in their new temporary home. He wasted no time giving them the grand tour.

He showed them Fortification Hill, the name given to the top part of The Fort. The name had been selected from various signs around the area that clearly marked this place's prewar title.

Reed was all too happy to be shown where his personal tent was and hunker down for a much-needed rest.

Athos wouldn't give Seekra the luxury of rest as he showed her where their own personal tent was, stripped her from her travelling clothes and spent the better part of an hour ravishing her for all to hear.

When they finally emerged from their tent, they made their way to the mess to get dinner. Athos as pleased to see Aramis next to the Legate and Reed.

A Scout was also present, discussing things with Aramis.

Athos sat with them while Seekra was permitted to stand behind her husband. It was as gracious as they could be in the eyes of all the other members of the high command around them.

Aramis handed the Scout a few pieces of paper. In the brief conversation, he heard her utter the names, Colt and Hard Tack, before looking to her brother and his wife.

"Reed said you made it safely without incident. I'm glad," Aramis mused to Seekra, who replied with a courteous nod of her head.

The Legate looked less than amused.

"While you two were ... busy … Caesar announced that training would end early tonight so the men could … relax," he said rather callously.

"I'm sorry," Athos began with a wide grin. "Could you hear us?" he added as he rested his hand on Seekra's ass.

The Legate wore a firm scowl.

"Did you hear what he said?" Aramis warned. "Keep Seekra in your tent. She shouldn't wander off tonight … or ever for that matter. The men here have been deprived for far too long. Centurion's wife or not, they may deem it's worth the risk, and insult to you."

"I'd kill them!" Athos called out with great enthusiasm.

"Maybe so … but they won't be thinking about that at the moment," the Legate added.

Athos withdrew his hand and looked to Seekra's beautiful face. He couldn't blame any man who'd choose a moment with her even if it meant his life. He'd always keep an eye on her.

"Any news from Colt?" the Legate asked, turning to Aramis.

"Where's Colt?" Athos asked, intrigued.

"He volunteered to go to Ouroboros and keep an eye on things with Hecate. Caesar may have let her return, but the Legate managed to convince him that we still need to keep an eye on her. Colt was more than happy to go," Aramis explained with a slight eye roll. "And no, I haven't gotten any word back yet."

"You think she'll keep her word?" Reed asked.

"She better unless she wants the wrath of Caesar upon her and her people," the Legate answered.

"Caesar shouldn't have allowed her to go back," Athos muttered.

"Keep your voice down," Reed warned. "We don't have the luxury of firm walls here. Everyone hears everything." His serious expression wavered to a smirk. "But you already know that," he added with a wink.

Athos was beaming but Seekra looked embarrassed.

"I'm just saying," Athos continued, now whispering. "I think we gave her too much freedom. What if she decides to take her entire tribe and just bail?"

"I don't know where she could go that Caesar wouldn't find her. Honestly, I'd be happy if we never have to call on them. Every time I catch her looking at me, she's glaring at me like she's willing the world to have me burst into flames," Reed said rather poignantly. "Honestly, I thought she was going to slit my throat those first few weeks in Flagstaff. I even warned Tahnee about it. I had no idea what she was thinking or what she'd do."

"She's got her new tribe now. I doubt she cares much about what happened to the Twisted Hairs. Look at Ulysses … he's well adjusted," Athos deflected.

Reed shrugged.

The Legate finished his meal and stood up.

"I have to report in. I'll see you all tonight," he said.

"Not me," Aramis spoke up. "I have business in Nevada to attend to."

"Not staying for the party?" Athos teased.

"It's not a party. Caesar told the men to relax … and frankly … I don't need to be here for that when I have work to do," she said sourly.

"Be safe," the Legate said, clearly not inserting himself into the mix as he turned and left.

"You could just hang around with us tonight. When do we ever get to just, chill?" Athos asked.

"When we've defeated the NCR … then we can chill," Aramis said with a coy smirk. Now it was her turn to stand. "Just keep the men from burning the place down tonight," she added.

"No promises," Athos said cheerfully.

Reed rolled his eyes.


Aramis had left the rock with her acceptance to the party as Dex has requested. That had been over two weeks ago. She'd also stashed the briefcase with the NCR money in a place where she felt no one would come across it. She'd thought about telling Reed or Athos about it should something happen to her, but she opted to keep them clean from her dealings. Surely the Scout had gotten to Hard Tack by now and expected to hear back from him in the weeks to come.

In the meantime, Aramis was getting ready to venture off and see The Strip for the first time. Her instructions had been clear and almost painfully detailed. She'd meet Dex at the Grub N' Gulp, then they'd enter The Strip together. It was still two days before the party but Dex had insisted she come early so they could prepare, as he put it.

She was surprised to see he was already there when she arrived at the rest stop. He looked surprisingly clean. His stubble had become a thick beard, but he kept it tidy and trimmed with a clean neck. His hair was a little longer too, but it suited him, made him look less soldier like. He was wearing a clean light grey button-up T-shirt with black everyday slacks. He'd ditched the hiking boots for a simple soft black leather shoe too.

"We're not staying," he said when Aramis raised her finger to Lupa for a Sarsaparilla. Aramis lowered her hand with slight disappointment.

"Right to business as usual," Aramis grumbled.

"This is business," he said curtly.

Aramis rolled her eyes.

He led them north up the 95 Highway. Eventually, they came to a large gate with high walls on either side adorned with various scrap that none could scale without cutting themselves to pieces on the rusted metal, glass and other nasty things. Aramis looked at the graffiti on the wall, in particular a word.

"What's Freeside?" she asked.

"This is Freeside," Dex said as he opened the gate.

"I thought we were going to The Strip."

"We are, but we are making a stop here. It's where I've stashed our things," he informed.

Aramis wavered mid-step and refused to enter the gate.

Dex turned around.

"What's wrong, Legionary? Not scared, are you?" he teased.

Aramis felt uneasy. It wasn't too late. She wasn't committed to this. She could turn, walk away and put this place and him far behind her and there was nothing he could have done. It was just him and her.

Was he leading her into a trap? Would there be Troopers on the other side waiting to arrest her, take her back and torture her again?

He must have sensed her apprehension because he calmly walked towards her.

"Look, you've come this far," he said casually.

Aramis stood firm as her heart rate quickened. Her vision seemed to narrow until she couldn't see him anymore, just the gate in front of her. Everything else was just a haze.

Suddenly she felt something take her hand and instantly her world opened up again. She looked down to see Dex touching her hand. He wasn't holding it, just pressing his fingertips into the back of her hand. The touch was welcome and not threatening. She didn't pull away.

"Easy there," Dex said like he was calming a skittish animal. "Everything that happens here is for mutual benefit. You're one of my top assets and I don't intend on breaking that rapport anytime soon," he assured her.

Aramis looked him in the eye. She studied his face for the lie, an eye twitch, a lip curl, anything, but even if he was, Dex was too well trained to give himself away so easily.

If she wanted into The Strip, she'd have to trust him.

Dex opened the gate again and this time Aramis followed.

"This is it?" she asked.

Everything looked grey and dreary. There were young kids playing in the street with garbage. They were dirty and their clothing torn. A woman with a waste pale walked into the street and dumped the contents just a few feet from where the children played. Judging by the sludge, it was human waste, and the whole area smelled of it. The buildings were large, but they were dilapidated with absent doors, broken windows and crumbling walls. Graffiti was everywhere and all of it vile and distasteful with images of men's penis's, profanities and other obscenities.

"Freeside," Dex answered. "Cheery place."

As they walked through the wide road, Aramis took note of the people here. No one had a smile on their face. Everyone looked as though they hadn't bathed in ages. Their faces were caked in grime and the closer she got to anyone, the stronger the putrid smell they gave off.

On several street corners, young women and some older women were heckling people for caps in exchange for what – Aramis could only guess. None of them looked like anything she'd want any kind of physical interaction with. She compared them to the women back at Miss Kitty's place. Those girls had been quite beautiful, clean and well dressed. The women of Freeside looked used, run-down and in desperate need of antibiotics. All of them wore the same desperate expression. Their faces were gaunt, and their eyes listless. When Aramis passed by, their stares seemed to pass right threw her like they only turned on at the sight of profit.

Freeside was a crowded place and Aramis could see there were others who seemed to be consolidating on one main road, all headed towards the bright lights of one gate in particular. Aramis recognized the view right away. It was just like the other entrance she'd seen, protected by large menacing robots.

The other people making their way to the gate all wore the same anxious expressions. They must have been patrons of The Strip because they weren't dressed like the residents of Freeside. They wore casual clothes, cleaner and all had footwear; which was more than could be said then the inhabitants of this decrepit town. All the travellers had with them some kind of hired muscle to keep them safe. Those who had money had more than one. Obviously, they had assets worth protecting just as much as their lives.

Dex turned in the opposite direction of the bustling gate.

"Aren't we going that way?" Aramis asked, gesturing with her thumb towards the crowd and robots checking passports.

"Nope, we're going this way," Dex countered and he led her down a narrow area. Up ahead, a young girl was shouting her greetings to those coming towards her. At the sight of Dex the young girl lit up.

"Well isn't this a welcome surprise!" she mused in a deep southern accent.

The girl looked no older than twenty. She was terribly thin, with bruises and scars that's dotted her arms, particularly in the creases of her elbows. She had long yellow-blonde hair that caressed her bare shoulders. She was wearing nothing more than a skin-tight black tube dress that barely covered the tops of her legs. It must have been on purpose. She was pretty by Freeside standards, Aramis thought.

"Hello Sylvie," Dex said kindly as he approached.

"No introductions?" the girl teased as she eyed Aramis scrupulously, her eyes scanning several times over. "You've never brought such a fine young thing here before."

Dex wore a scowl as he continued past her.

"Welcome to the Atomic Wrangler, sweetheart. If you're on a date with this one," Sylvie said with a gesture to Dex. "You'll need at least a few drinks. Tell Willy at the bar that your girl Sylvie said you could have one on her tab," the girl said with a wink.

Aramis smiled. The girl was cheeky. Aramis liked her.

Dex remained silent as he put a hand on Aramis' mid-back and ushered her forward through the door of the establishment.

"She seemed nice," Aramis said rather amused.

"Everyone here just wants your money. Remember that," Dex warned.

"Well I don't have any so it's not like I'm a good target for their pleasantries," she countered.

Inside it was dark and musty. Most of the lights hanging from the ceiling were burned out while several flickered on the brink of ruin.

The floor felt uneven under the foot as Aramis took a few more steps inside to get a better look of the place. Everything inside looked just as dirty and covered in filth as things did outside. The old prewar carpets looked as though they hadn't been cleaned in decades. The red, brown and beige fibres either matted up or bare. Situated around the lower level were short wood circular tables with red fabric chairs positioned around each one. There was a small stage off the side where a young man stood solo talking into the stand-up microphone.

At first, Aramis didn't pay much attention to what he was yammering on about but what was clear was that everyone in the place was laughing, so whatever he was talking about, it had to be pretty funny. She was trying to get a feel for this place. It was pretty busy. There weren't many free chairs but there was plenty of standing room. At least in here, people seemed to be a bit more put together. Sure, there were still some very impoverish patrons but for the most part, people here looked like they had a few caps to burn. Some of the men wore old prewar style suits, some too small, others too big for their bodies. The women mostly wore simple cocktail dresses, but the theme was always the same, the more skin the better. There were also several non-feral ghouls within the crowd. It wasn't often Aramis encountered these types and Aramis was fascinated seeing the mix of people who'd come together in a dive like this.

Aramis definitely looked out of place here. She looked like an adventurer just come down from the rugged highlands of the Rockies. If she was going to fit in here, she needed a better outfit.

Fortunately, Dex said he'd take care of everything. She just hoped it was sooner than later.

"Your stuff's in the room," a man's voice broke through and Aramis's attention turned away from the stage and towards a man in a beige suit who was coming towards them, hand outstretched, holding a small key. He had a square jaw and pointed nose. His eyes were narrow and a deep dark brown. He was perhaps in his thirties, but he wasn't an attractive man by any means.

"Thanks, James," Dex said as he took the key from the man's hands and slid right by him without any further exchange. Dex led the way up a wide set of stairs. Aramis was careful not to touch the rails or the walls. They passed several other rooms before they came to one particular door that their key worked on and went inside. It was a small room with just one bed and Aramis raised a brow.

"Relax … were not staying here. This is just for you to get ready in," Dex said as he moved to the side of the bed and pulled a large duffel bag out from underneath.

"As long as I don't have to sleep on that bed," Aramis said. She wasn't sure if the blankets were meant to be a deep forest green or if it was the natural hue of shame, vomit and prostitute tears that stained them that colour.

"Are you really going to turn your nose up to this place? Don't you Legionaries sleep on dirt outside most of the time?" Dex questioned.

"At least I know the dirt out there isn't laced with venereal diseases," Aramis mocked.

"Look, I don't know what she put in here so don't get pissed with me if it isn't to your standards," he cautioned as he tossed Aramis the bag and pointed to the bathroom. "You can get ready in there. I hope something fits. When I described your body type my friend didn't seem too hopeful about options."

Aramis knew he was trying to be mean, but she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing her react. She took the bag and went into the bathroom. Over the years she'd done this routine many times – shed the Legionary, become something new. She just hoped this time she'd be able to pull off her usual talents for femininity. She opened the bag and looked at the clothes within. Everything was a dress and Aramis exhaled deeply. Dresses made her feel vulnerable and being with Dex was already wearisome enough. She tried on the first one, a simple deep blue plunging neckline gown that was way too small she couldn't get it over her broad shoulders. Onto the floor, it went. Three more joined that one on the floor until she finally found one that fit her. It was a pale pink satin empire style dress with a white lace overlay and thin straps. Whoever provided Dex with these clothes knew what they'd be working with because they included a rather padded bra to give her the appearance of cleavage, she didn't have on account of her chest muscles. She applied a bit of basic makeup – the best she could do with her minimal instruction. All that was left was her hair and there wasn't much she could do with that, so she pulled some it forward over her forehead and left eye and applied some product to give it a bit of an edgy style that she thought suited her. As for shoes, there was no way she could walk in heels, so she opted for the simple flats that were provided. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she thought she didn't look half bad. She emerged from the bathroom not knowing what to expect but when he didn't utter a single word about the new appearance she was surprisingly taken aback.

He too had changed into a pair of clean black slacks, a dark blue collared Polo and dark brown leather shoes. Without needing the mirror, he had combed and styled his hair. In response to his change, she kept silent as well – just because it felt good to be a little spiteful.

"So, what are we doing now?" Aramis asked as she folded her arms over her chest.

Dex exhaled deeply from his nose in apparent frustration.

"Do you know how to go on a date?" he asked in a tone that was somewhat insulting.

"Do you know where to stab a man repeatedly in the liver in just the right spot so he won't die?" Aramis countered with a pursed mouth.

"Ok … well that won't come up in conversation this week I can assure you of that," Dex hissed. "Look, for this to work we both have to play the roles. We both have something to gain and a lot to lose if this doesn't work," Dex refuted.

"Why did you bring me for this? Why not get another female intel operative?" Aramis questioned. "This all seems way to elaborate for one simple party. What are you expecting?"

Dex narrowed in on her with a stare. There it was. A small tell.

"Truthfully this Op wasn't approved by my chain of command. It was considered too high risk. I said I would do it alone and no one challenged me on that … but I can't do this one alone. I need help and no one volunteered," Dex said and Aramis gathered he was telling some truths.

"I thought this was just supposed to be a party," Aramis grilled.

"It is just a party … for everyone but me … but us … you and I."

"I feel like I'm being led into a slaughter. There's something, maybe many things you're not telling me," Aramis questioned.

"It's need to know. And you don't need to know. I have my agenda and surely you have yours. You're getting something out of this too, don't forget that," he refuted.

"What are you expecting me to do?" Aramis grumbled with her arms folded across her chest.

"Act like my date, but keep your eyes and ears open at all times. I figured you'd be used to this kind of work after your stint in New Reno," Dex informed. "But let's be clear … this time, you're not a whore. Everyone who knows me knows I wouldn't partake in such illicit activities."

"Except in New Canaan when you asked me to have sex with you for money after your brother died," Aramis said without holding back.

Dex shot her an icy stare but the redness in his face wasn't from anger, if Aramis could guess, it was shame.

"Alright, so what am I if I'm not a prostitute in this city?" Aramis pressed. "I can't very well be NCR, now can I?"

"Do you know anything about finances? Administration?" Dex asked.

Aramis shook her head.

"Do you know anything besides killing?" he forced while scratching his beard.

"I know books," Aramis tried.

He looked up appearing surprised.

"Books …" Dex mumbled. "Like real books?" With words?"

Aramis' upper lip twitched.

"Yes, real books. I was told they were pieces of sufficient literature," she explained.

"Did they have pictures?" Dex continued relentlessly.

"Just trust that I can talk books," Aramis defended.

"Fine, how about a teacher?" he suggested.

"Teacher of what?" Aramis asked.

"Like a schoolteacher. For kids. Teaching them to read, do math and shit," he said.

"Like an instructor? Teaching combative techniques too?"

"What? No, just a regular teacher … One who teaches kids to read," Dex said sounding exasperated as he rubbed his forehead with the palm of his hand. "You've been to Shady Sands, so we'll say you teach the NCR children on the base there."

"Sounds simple enough," Aramis said in a cheeky tone. "So, what am I listening for exactly?" Aramis changed the subject.

"Nothing specific," Dex said vaguely. "Now are you ready to see the strip?"

Aramis detected that he was deflecting that aspect of the conversation, but she decided to let it go and let time reveal things to her.

"Yes," she uttered.

"Good, now we mingle," he said with a straight face.

Aramis didn't know what he meant by that and when he turned to the side and stuck his elbow out at her, she raised a brow.

"You take it," Dex said curtly.

"Take it where?"

Dex scoffed, rolled his eyes and grabbed her by the hand. In the next second her hand was resting in the crease of his elbow.

"This is how normal couples walk in public," he lectured.

"Oh, now we're a couple," she teased.

"I could do better," he grumbled as he opened the door and led them out of the room.

Aramis squeezed his arm in a vice grip and was pleased when he winced.

Wearing her best fake smile, they descended the stairs to the main floor of the casino. Everyone was still preoccupied with the comic on stage and paid no attention to them as they left the Atomic Wrangler.

"Here's your passport," he said as he handed her an ID card. The picture on the pass was the photo taken of her when she was processed back in Shady Sands upon her capture.

"Adeline Rose?!" Aramis spat out when she saw the name on the card.

"Got a problem with your name?" he asked as they neared the gate to The Strip.

"Why couldn't you use my usual name?" she asked.

"Nothing about this can be usual. So, get used to that one … besides … I picked it," he mused.

When it was their turn to face the massive Securitrons, Aramis casually handed one of them her passport. The robot scanned the document, and the gate opened. With her hand still on Dex's arm, she entered The Strip and was immediately captivated by the sight.

There was still that look about it that made it appear a part of this post-apocalyptic world, but everything was bright, clean and shockingly well maintained. It was packed full of people too. It reminded her a lot of New Reno but on a much grander scale. Massive fancy hotels stood side by side one another, brilliant neon lights beckoning everyone into their open doors. Music blasted into the streets and all around her, criers could be hear shouting deals and wonders to behold at their various businesses.

It was all a bit overstimulating.

"I didn't realize it was this big," Aramis said.

"Don't let the false smiles and colourful lights fool you. This place has debauchery deeply rooted to the core," he warned.

When the shock finally melted away, Aramis was able to start studying this place with careful consideration. As they walked down the busy road Aramis noted how many more of those robots wheeled around keeping an eye on everything. There was also a heavy NCR presence but to her surprise, many of them seemed to be quite intoxicated.

"Are they not on duty?" Aramis asked casually.

"This is where they come when they're on leave," Dex explained.

"On leave?" she questioned.

"Off duty vacation," he informed.

"Ah," Aramis said as her eyes flashed to anything and everything to take in as much information as possible. They locked on a very large building with the silhouette of women in black neon lights and flames rising high above the entrance.

"Gomorrah … that's where the party is tomorrow, right?" she asked.

"Yes," Dex said as they walked by.

"Interesting décor," Aramis mused, noting the barely dressed women grinding up against one another and various objects around the structure. "Classy."

Dex smirked.

They continued walking through several more districts of the strip passing more casinos, and even more hyped up revelers. Surprisingly Dex made a pretty decent tour guide as he explained the oligarchy of The Strip. She learned about the three main families, the Omertas, the Chairmen and the White Glove Society. He went on to speak of the mysterious benefactor, Mr. House. He was reluctant to speak of the NCR operation on The Strip, as was to be expected but filled her in on the politics and power struggles of the other families. After several hours, Aramis felt confident she could draw up a detailed report that would certainly please Caesar.

"We'll be staying here," Dex spoke up as he led her to a strange-looking building with a bright neon sign out front that illuminated the words Vault 21 Hotel.

"Looks … cosy," Aramis said as they entered the hotel. A pretty blonde in a blue jumpsuit was standing behind a large desk with a wide, inviting smile.

"Welcome!" she called out intuitively before recognition befell her face and the smile grew larger.

"Tanis!" she shrieked. "So good to see you!" It was in that moment she took notice to Aramis's presence and she raised an inquisitive yet playful brow.

"Tanis … and guest," she said in a slightly mischievous manner.

"We'll need a room for the evening … for the party," he said casually as they stopped on the opposite side on the lobby desk.

"Of course! Cleo mentioned it to me this morning," she said and suddenly she outstretched her hand for Aramis to shake it. "Sarah! This is my little joint. Welcome to the Vault 21 Hotel," she said charmingly.

Aramis accepted the gesture.

"Nice to meet you," she replied kindly. "Adeline."

"When you both get settled in just call the front desk. Cleo said she was coming by later … I'm guessing you two worked out all the details?

"That's right. Let her know we just got here. She's bringing us some things I asked for and volunteered you both to assist Adeline here with getting ready for the night," he said.

Aramis shot him a surprised glance, but he didn't seem to notice. What did he mean help her get ready?

Sarah smirked and handed him a key card.

"Here ya go, it's the largest one," she said with a wink.

Dex took it and smiled as he led Aramis down a long flight of stairs into the old vault.

"Was this a real vault? I've only heard about these," Aramis said.

"Yes. Sarah was raised in this one. She's too terrified to leave it so she opened up a hotel, so she had no reason to," Dex explained.

Aramis took in the interesting layout and décor. Everything looked so industrial. There were pipes running in all directions, snaking the ceiling, framing doors, large pipes, small pipes, pipes that seemed to insert into other pipes and pipes that seemed to go nowhere at all. Aramis had never seen so many pipes and wondered just what purpose they all had. Despite the warm temperature the vault felt a bit on the cooler side, perhaps because they were deep underground or perhaps because the air converter forced crisp ambient air throughout the ventilation system. Sarah tried to make the place feel homey and welcoming with colourful banners, furniture, and simple art, but Aramis felt like she was trapped in a metal labyrinth much like a rat in a sewer.

They came to a rather plain door and Dex inserted the key card. With a /SWOOSH/ it opened quickly.

He stepped into the room and looked around.

It was surprisingly spacious inside with a large double bed, one of the cleanest she'd ever seen and an offshoot bathroom. It still felt cold and isolating but Aramis didn't complain.

Dex walked over to the bed, kicked off his shoes and climbed on, resting his head on the pillows with his hands tucked underneath as head. He lay on his back staring up at the ceiling for a moment before closing his eyes without uttering a word.

"Are we staying for long?" Aramis asked as she awkwardly stood at the foot of the bed unsure what was going on.

"Cleo will be here soon. I'm taking a nap in the meantime," he said indifferently.

Aramis rolled her eyes and settled on the rather plush red couch examining the television. She'd seen them before obviously, but the technology still fascinated her, and she flicked it on. A single white dot appeared in the centre of the screen that grew until a picture manifested on the small screen.

Aramis heard the music before she could make out the fuzzy images. A man and woman were singing a beautiful duet, their voices in perfect harmony as they poured out their heart filled ballad to one another.

Aramis studied the young woman on the screen. She was stunning with this black flowing hair that extended below her shoulders, swaying as she moved about the stage with her male counterpart. Her body was enveloped in a sleek black and red fitted dress with a kind of flower above the slit that looked as though it would reveal much more if it went only an inch higher. Still, like it was glued in place, the dress covered her perfectly, never revealing more than what was intended.

The man who accompanied her wore an elegant black suit with a smaller version of the flower the woman wore in his breast pocket. He had a thin moustache and black hair, sleeked back. He was handsome but the way he smiled at the woman … Aramis could see his truth … he was sinister. Where she was angelic and graceful in her movement, he stalked about the stage in pursuit of her. Maybe it was part of the act, but Aramis could see in his eyes that he lusted for her.

"Who are they?" Aramis asked, doubting Dex had gone to sleep.

Surprisingly it was a woman's voice that answered. "A couple of pre-war singers. I think his name was Dean and I can't remember hers."

Aramis spun around to see a woman standing in the open doorway smiling. For a moment Aramis thought she was looking at the same woman who was singing on the television. This new arrival had long black hair, but it was tied back in a ponytail. She had deep rich olive tanned skin and narrow almond shape eyes under black eyeshadow. Her body was tall, lean but hidden beneath a simple NCR Troopers daily garment.

"Vera," Dex spoke up without even opening an eye. "Her name was Vera."

"That's it!" the new woman answered, and she entered their room. "Hey, I'm Cleo Ramirez," she said with an outstretched hand as if she knew Dex wouldn't bother with courtesies and introduce them.

"Adeline Rose," Aramis said politely.

"I have to admit I was surprised to hear that Dex was bringing a date to the event," Cleo said with a smirk that was more charming.

"I think everyone is put off by any evidence of human emotion from him," Aramis added with her own coy grin.

"I like this one," Cleo said but nothing got even a rise from Dex.

Cleo looked her up and down, something Aramis had become accustomed to when it came to be being picked apart by gawking men and women. Aramis knew Cleo was examining the visible scars, but she was polite not to bring them up.

"I have a lot to work with here! This should be fun!" Cleo concluded.

Aramis appreciated her pleasant confidence.

Cleo shot a look to Dex and huffed.

"You can go now," she said rather harshly.

Dex opened and eye and canted his head to look at her.

"Hmm?" he grumbled.

"I have work to do. Get out," she said. Aramis was surprised she talked to Dex this way.

"I'll stay," he groaned.

"No, you won't. Get the fuck out. This is girl time."

Dex opened both eyes but now he was looking at Aramis. The look was a warning and it told her,

Try anything and I will fuck you up.

He rose slowly and without uttering another word, stepped out of the room.


When Caesar gave the men the night to "relax," Seekra knew the hidden meaning behind the word. It was an excuse for the men to act like foul monsters who saw everything with a pair of breasts that moved as fair game to their debauchery. Athos had done his best to keep his word and stay close to her, but the truth of the matter was that Athos was a Centurion, and thus, had a responsibility to take part in the festivities alongside his men. Out of respect for her, he assured her that he wouldn't touch another woman tonight. It wasn't a promise he wasn't expected to keep. There was no crime in bedding slaves that weren't your wife, in fact, the conduct was encouraged. Still, she held onto hope that Athos would keep his word.

Seekra remained in the large tent patiently waiting for the night to be over. The thin canvas did very little to muffle the sounds that came from the lower ring of The Fort where the event took place. She could hear all the men hollering and laughing, over what, she could only guess. At one point in the evening, Athos came to check on her. He was streaked with blood that he assured her wasn't his. The skin of his knuckles was split apart, swollen and bruised. His left eye was puffy and a small cut just below it left a small trickle of blood that had already dried on his cheek. He told her that the men had taken to fighting in a makeshift ring and so far, he was undefeated. Seekra noted the pride in his voice when he relayed these details. He said for the most part, the men seemed more interested in beating on each other than fucking the slaves Caesar had brought in for them. Seekra appreciated his candor but she knew the night was young and if the testosterone was flowing, it would only be a matter of time before the Legionaries turned their attention from each other to the slave women.

Eventually, Seekra was able to find rest, for how long she didn't know before there came an out of breath voice from outside her tent.

"Seekra!" he called out.

Seekra shot up from the small bed and took a few seconds to gather herself. The lights from the braziers had cast everything in a dim light that allowed her to see the face of Centurion Wendigo looking at her, his face more bruised and battered that Athos' had been, but despite the damage, she could still tell it was him.

Fear instantly gripped her. What did he want? Her answer came in the next second.

"Come to the medical tent. We need you to patch up the men from the fights," he ordered, but there was nothing cruel in his tone. "Athos said you'd be willing and sent me to escort you there," he added.

Seekra nodded fighting back a yawn in her groggy state.

She followed Wendigo out of the tent, down the stairs of Fortification Hill and to the medical tent of the lower ring. When she was inside, Wendigo dismissed himself from the task and returned to the mayhem.

Inside the tent, six men sat on gurneys eagerly awaiting to be put back together. Most of them had sustained extensive facial injuries that required immediate suturing. She suspected these men were the losers in the impromptu arena brawls.

Another medical slave was already in the tent. Seekra had only met the young girl once and knew her only as Juni from somewhere in the east. Juni wasn't overly pretty but she was young, thin and innocent looking. Judging by her unsettled disposition with the crude behaviour of the present men, she was rather unspoiled too. Broken slaves wore the look of defeat with permanent frowns and enervated expressions, but Juni was wide-eyed and cautious. Seekra believed she'd been forced into slavery a few short weeks ago and was probably only brought to The Fort to act as "mattress relief" as Seekra called it. The truth was Juni had absolutely no previous medical knowledge and had been put into the medical tent to justify her presence beyond a hole for the men to fuck. Seekra didn't resent the young girl, but she wished they'd have brought someone into The Fort with at least some medical background that would at least be somewhat useful.

Seekra noted how skinny and frail the girl was and wondered what kind of life she had even before the Legion. Juni had long unkempt auburn hair and small brown eyes. Her nose was dotted with freckles and she seemed like the type that would shudder at any kind of loud noise. Seekra didn't know how long a girl like this would last in the Legion.

Juni looked relieved when Seekra stepped into the tent. She'd been clearly overwhelmed by the simple injuries as evident by the radstag in the spotlight look the young girl gave Seekra the moment she entered.

"Get some clean water, I'll deal with this," Seekra ordered politely.

Juni nodded and retrieved cartons of clean water that she poured into bowls so that Seekra could clean the men's wounds. From there, Juni withdrew to the corner and watched in silence.

Despite their injuries, the men were in good spirits, conversing with one another about the fighting, each one embellishing his confrontation with his foe and making excuses for defeat.

While examining the partially torn ear of one man she was surprised when he reached out and cupped her chin with his large hand, pulled her to his face and looked her in the eyes.

"This one is a pretty thing, older but still more than hot enough to fuck!" he exclaimed and Seekra could smell the odour of rotten meat on his breath.

"Not that one, man! That's Centurion Athos's wife. Off-limits unless you want that ear removed fully and shoved up your ass," one of her other patients warned.

The Legionary who held her face immediately released her and recoiled back.

"Now that's too bad," he grumbled. "I better fuck something before the night's over."

Seekra rolled her eyes and went back to mending the other men's wounds.

"What about that one," the Legionary suddenly piped up as his finger pointed to Juni standing in the corner.

"Fair game, Maddoc," his comrade spoke up with a twisted smile that looked especially sinister beneath the layers of grime and facial swelling.

Juni's eyes fell to the ground and Seekra saw her body stiffen in fear.

"You don't want her," Seekra said with a dismissive tone, not making eye contact with the man known as Maddoc but focusing solely on her work.

"Huh? Why not?" Maddoc asked, his tone slightly elevated.

"She's not broken yet. Might be more trouble than she's worth," Seekra warned.

"I doubt that," he argued and with a thick finger he pointed to Juni and beckoned her to come to his side.

Juni stepped forward, her eyes still locked on the floor but evidently paying close attention to what was going on in the tent.

"You'll be a good girl, won't you?" he cooed. "Suck me right here and now while I get these knots put in my face."

Juni grimaced and her eyes flashed to Seekra only for a moment as if pleading with her to help. There was very little Seekra could do. What the men wanted, the men got, and she was in no position to protect a young slave girl. Still, Seekra felt oddly compelled to give it one last shot.

"Respectfully, I must ask that you hold off. I will need my aide to assist with the sutures I need to put in the side of your head to reattach this part of your ear," Seekra said trying to sound courteous.

Maddoc shot Seekra an aggressive scowl and he sat straight up on the gurney to appear even more menacing.

Seekra tried not to look taken aback and just went to work placing the necessary materials on her tray.

"Fine," Maddoc grumbled.

Seekra went to work sewing up the man's ear. She told Juni to provide simple assistance that required no skill but made it appear as though she was helping. The ploy appeared to work and Maddoc left them both alone.

When the job was done Seekra put Juni to work cleaning the instruments and told Maddoc he could rejoin the men and continue the festivities. With Juni still working and Maddoc unwilling to wait for his claim, he left the tent in a bit of a huff.

After all the men had been patched up, Juni addressed Seekra's obvious help.

"Thank you," the shy girl murmured.

"You're not out of it yet. I may have stopped it this time, but you better expect that they will come for you like the animals they are. You can either accept it and try to survive or," Seekra stopped mid-sentence when she saw the tears appear in the girl's eyes.

For too long Seekra had gone through moments like this with the new slaves when she saw the hope drain from their faces and the spirit surrender to circumstance. There was no way out, not for any of them. Seekra didn't enjoy having this kind of conversation, but she felt it was necessary to be upfront and honest.

"Look, when you're done cleaning, you and I will walk back together. I know a good way that should steer us clear of everything going on out there. Might avoid trouble," Seekra said with a wink trying to set the girl's mind at ease.

Juni returned her gesture with a smile.

It didn't take long for Juni to finish cleaning all the instruments and as promised, Seekra accompanied her out of the medical tent towards the slave quarters.

Neither of them said a word as they stuck to the shadows to avoid detection by the men but when they neared the slave quarters, Seekra felt sudden dread. Maddoc and four other Legionaries were near the entrance of the tent. Between the five of them, two young slave girls were being ravaged much to the delight of their oppressors. Seekra took Juni by the hand and was about to turn back into the shadows and get out of there when Maddoc called out to them.

"Look who turned up to the party!"

Seekra felt the sudden surge of anger come over her but she knew better than to lash out at the men outright.

"Come here!" he ordered.

Reluctant, yet subservient Seekra released Juni's hand and walked towards them all.

Seekra also didn't know these girls. They couldn't have been older than twenty. She cursed Caesar for bringing such fresh stock to The Fort for the most depraved men to shatter.

Three of the five Legionaries were tending to their prizes while Maddoc and another particularly garish man stood idle.

When Seekra and Juni were close, Maddoc reached out, grabbed Juni by the wrist and pulled her into him. His hand explored her face as he eyed her up and down like she was livestock that required thorough inspection before purchase. Seeming pleased with the examination, Maddoc ripped the rags that barely clung to the skinny girl's frame from right off her body. Stark naked Juni stood shivering and crying.

Seekra had had enough. It was too late for the other two girls; the damage was done but Seekra had to at least try to save Juni tonight. She wouldn't be able to live with herself if she didn't.

"My assistant needs to rest. Save it for another time," Seekra snapped as she stepped between Maddoc and Juni, glaring at him with bold defiance.

"Are you fucking kidding me?!" one of the men called out. "Did she just tell you off?!"

Maddoc looked enraged as his face flushed bright red and his upper lip curled up slightly in a snarl.

Without warning, he cocked his fist and struck her clean across the face. Seekra hit the dirt before she knew what had happened, her face burning with pain and for a moment everything went white.

Someone was laughing. Who? She didn't know, nor did she care.

"Boys, I think Centurion Athos would expect us to teach this slut a lesson about respecting superiority. What do you think?" he chirped.

From the ground, Seekra could hear the men chanting him on.

There came another violent blow, this time a kick to the stomach that took the air right out of her lungs. Seekra lay flat on her stomach trying desperately to breathe.

She could hear murmurs and knew the men were speaking but she couldn't make out what was being said. For what seemed like over a minute the men left her along and gave her time to collect her bearings. When she was able to roll onto the flat of her back, she saw Maddoc, naked from the waist down, burying himself to the hilt into a crying Juni.

"It's always hotter when they cry," he tormented as the others egged him on.

Seekra glared up at the men with resentment. They were evil, every single one of them.

While thrusting into Juni, Maddoc's eyes fell on Seekra and he grinned from ear to ear.

"Don't worry bitch, you may be a bit old for my taste, but I bet your cunt will still feel good," he teased between pants. "I think Centurion Athos would expect us to put you in line after you spoke out so boldly."

Seekra felt her fists clench and that's when she felt the cold sand collect beneath her hands. Instinctively she grabbed a fistful and flung it into Maddoc's eyes.

He screamed, thrashing at his face and fell to the ground. The four other men stood with mouths gaping, clearly in disbelief that a slave would have to audacity to lash out in such a manner.

It had been valiant, but it had been stupid. It only took a few seconds for one of the men to snap back into the moment, grab Seekra off the ground and yank her to her feet. That's when the lashing really started, and no woman was spared. The men switched from a carnal desire to bloodthirsty rage. Between strikes, Seekra saw as the other three women, Juni included, were punched, slapped and kicked. She was certain the men were bent on killing them all, but that's when the beating suddenly stopped and she felt a body slam against her like someone had fallen on her. Through swollen, nearly completely occluded vision Seekra could see two more bodies had joined in the mayhem but something had changed. The new arrivals weren't beating on the girls, no, they were fighting the five men, and winning.

There were screams, hollering and a lot of cursing. Seekra tried to make out what was happening but between what she expected was a decent concussion and all the swelling to her face, she wasn't entirely sure.

What was clear was that in a matter of seconds it was all over and the five men had fled leaving the two newcomers panting and heaving as they stood over top of her.

"Mom, you alright?"

A hand, soft, warm and ever so gentle touched her shoulder while another grasped her wrist and pulled her to her feet. With all the consciousness she could muster, Seekra made out the faces of Alexus and Dead Sea. Her boys. Her children. Her saviours.

With tears flooding her eyes she embraced her two sons without a care if anyone else saw. She brought them in tight to her body and hugged them so tightly. They were grown men, large and armour-clad; there was no way she could reach her arms around them both, but she still tried.

"My boys," she cried.

She felt their own arms surround her.

"We'll bring you to Athos," Dead Sea said in a kind tone. "Get them inside," he added, gesturing for Alexus to escort the slave girls.

Dead Sea assisted Seekra back up to Fortification Hill and to her and Athos's tent. He waited with her, patiently cleaning the cuts and wiping away the blood. He told her how much he missed and loved her and that he and Alexus always knew she was, and always would be, their mother.

Seekra's tears turned from fear to joy.

Finally, Athos arrived, shoulder to shoulder with Alexus.

"What in the hell?!" he snapped as he dropped to his knees to examine her.

"I'm going to kill them!" he roared.

"I'm fine," Seekra lied, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Really."

Athos's face was full of fury, red, pupils dilated, and teeth clenched.

"Where are Maddoc and the others?!" he demanded to know.

"They scattered after Dead Sea and I intervened," Alexus said.

Athos stood up, pacing around the room for quite some time before speaking.

"I will end them all."

Seekra smiled as best she could through all the swelling.

"You can't," she muttered.

Athos turned to her abruptly.

"What?! Why?!"

"I threw sand in his eyes." Seekra began.

"You did what?"

"Sand … he and the others … I just had enough of watching and doing nothing while they … they hurt those young girls," Seekra explained.

"If you confront Maddoc and the others, everyone will think you're weak for defending a woman. They won't respect you," Dead Sea warned. "Even if they do deserve to be turned inside out.

"Won't they think that of you two?" Athos asked.

"A Decanus holds a lot less power than a Centurion. We can handle it; besides, most know she's our mother … that's gotta count for something … but a slave wife … she can't have that much power and control over you … at least not in their eyes," Dead Sea affirmed.

Seekra knew he was right.

"It's okay," she said. "Dead Sea is right. You can't retaliate."

Athos stood in place, vibrating with rage.

"I want them dead," he growled.

Seekra appreciated his allegiance but she knew, at least for the time being, they had to let this one go.

"I just want to go to bed," she said calmly.

Athos's expression turned empathetic and he relaxed.

"Fine," he grumbled.

Dead Sea and Alexus gave her one last hug before departing the tent. She'd never been prouder of all the men in her life.

Undressing from her clothes proved to be more painful than expected as the adrenaline had worn off leaving her feeling achy and sore.

She suddenly felt a pair of rough hands reach around her stomach and caress her chest softly. Athos's lips traced along the side of her neck causing goosebumps to prick up on her skin.

She turned around to face him and smiled.

"I'm so sorry," he said solemnly.

"This isn't your fault," she tried.

"I promised to watch out for you tonight," he went on.

She put her arms around his neck and kissed him tenderly on his mouth.

"None of this is on you," she said.

He frowned and she knew he would always carry the blame for this night. As they settled into the small bed for the night, he held her close, but gently and soon his soft snores could be heard through the darkness.

Seekra only wished she could find peace tonight.


The next morning Athos woke, dressed and trudged down to the lower ring to see the men as they ate breakfast collectively in their mess tent.

He greeted each Legionary he passed with a head nod or a crossed fist over the chest as he strode into the mess and saw his intended.

Maddoc sat at a long table surrounded by men Athos wasn't too familiar with as they all belonged to Centurion Ticker.

With a confident smile etched upon his face, Athos approached the men. They must have heard his heavy steps because Maddoc and several others turned to see him when he was close. Maddoc stood respectfully to greet the Centurion. At this distance, Athos could see the fresh bruises and cuts on the men's faces he assumed had gotten physical with Dead Sea and Alexus.

"Centurion!" Maddoc exclaimed gleefully. "You'll be pleased to know we defended our creed when your wife decided to act out of line!"

Athos nodded as his smile grew, then, without a sliver of hesitation, he pulled the large trench knife from its sheath on his hip and thrust it into Maddoc's throat until it stopped at the hilt.

Maddoc's eyes bulged and his mouth partially fell open. He stood unable to move as blood filled his mouth.

Athos stood unwavering as his smile turned to a blank stare.

Two of the men on either side of Maddoc jumped back, another fell out of his chair entirely, falling to the ground and crawling to put distance between himself and the slaughter.

It took several seconds for Maddoc's body to accept the final outcome and crumble to a heap on the ground at Athos's feet, a large pool of blood already forming. The knife was nothing special … he could keep it.

Athos watched as Maddoc took his last breath before glancing up to the other men at the table.

He didn't saw a word, nor did they.

With one final look at each of them, he turned and left the tent.


Aramis was now twenty minutes late and Dex was getting impatient waiting by himself in the Vault's central atrium. Finally, the sound of heels brought his eye to gaze up at the two women who emerged through the doorway. It took a few seconds for Dex to realize he was looking at Aramis. She looked like something out of an old prewar French fashion magazine. She wore a stunning pastel purple strapless dress with light ruffling along her bust that traced down her silhouette just off centre and came to the hem that sat at her mid-thigh. She wasn't as muscular as she had been when he'd first met her, but she still had a very defined physique. Her short blonde hair had been styled with rolling waves that clung to her head with product. Her skin looked soft, smooth and vibrant. Cleo had surely done her makeup because Dex didn't recognize the brilliant green eyes that were staring right at him. She looked gorgeous.

Dex had opted for a simple all black fitted suit with a black undershirt and black tie. He thought it looked pretty sleek but standing next to her, he knew she'd draw all the eyes – but he wondered if that was a good thing. They were supposed to blend with the crown but looking like that, she was going to draw all kinds of attention.

"Pick up you jaw," Cleo teased right at him.

Aramis's expression had been what he'd been trying to achieve, stoical and indifferent. He'd failed.

"We're late," Dex deflected.

"Can't rush these things," Cleo defended. Just then Sarah appeared with a wide radiant smile.

"Oh! You two look gorgeous!" she mused as she took Cleo's hand and kissed her softly on the corner of the mouth, "Honey you did so well!" she said to Cleo before turning to Aramis and beaming with excitement. "You look positively radiant! My god, I didn't realize you were so ripped too!" she gushed.

Aramis's face turned slightly red.

"Alright, sorry I know … you're late … go!" Cleo taunted.

"Ready?" Dex asked.

Aramis took his arm in her hand like she knew what she was doing this time and he led her out of the atrium.

"Have fun you two!" Sarah called out to them.

The night air was cool and refreshing as they stepped out of the Vault. Dex was glad to be out of that pit.

"You do look nice," he admitted. There was no point being too hostile. Tonight, they had to work together if they were going to pull this off. Dex knew what he was after, he just needed confirmation and knew tonight would be a night he'd see what he was after.

"Thank you," she said casually. As they walked towards Gomorrah. Heads turned as they passed and Dex knew they were looking at Aramis. She stood out like a rare desert flower after a heavy rainstorm out here.

When they entered the casino, he was surprised to see just how busy it was. Anyone who was anyone was at this party it seemed. He'd been in here on normal nights but tonight the place looked like sin and hell came to party. Women cascaded from the ceiling on long soft ribbons doing aerials and other seductive movements. Other women danced in cages while liquor and beer poured relentlessly from every available tap and bottle. The tables were packed with gamblers all shouting and hollering for their numbers to hit it big. The noises of slot machines erupted from all over, almost deafening.

He felt Aramis move in closer beside him, her eyes wide as she took in the view.

"You look, nervous Legionary," Dex teased, trying to be a bit playful but she shot him a warning glare.

She was wound up tighter than usual tonight, he thought.

"Tanis Dexterra!" came a deep voice over Dex's left shoulder. He spun to see Colonel Schmitz standing next to what Dex could only assume was the man's wife or possible mistress.

"Sir," Dex exclaimed politely.

"Rebecca, this is the head of our Intelligence Unit, Major Tanis Dexterra. And I'm sorry I don't recognize the lovely face you have brought for us this evening," the Colonel said charmingly as he gestured to Aramis.

"This is Adeline Rose," Dex said.

"Please call my Addy," Aramis said politely as she shook their hands.

"A pleasure Ms. Rose. This is my lovely wife Rebecca." The two women exchanged pleasantries. Colonel Schmitz went on. "The Major wasn't too pleased about me insisting he come this evening, but I must say, I think having the company of a beautiful young woman just might bring him around," the Colonel said with a wink.

Aramis was smiling.

"Try to have fun, my boy," the Colonel insisted as he clapped Dex firmly on the back before striding away.

"Tanis?" Aramis chirped.

"What?" Dex groaned.

"I thought your name was Dex," she said. "That's the second time I've heard someone call you Tanis."

"Dexterra is my last name. Old friends and those who matter call me Dex," he cleared up.

"Awe," Aramis gushed.

"What?" Dex grumbled.

"I call you Dex, does that mean I matter?" she teased.

Dex rolled his eyes.

"Come on, let's get a drink," he said firmly like it was an order.

He led her up to the bar.

He held up two fingers to the bartender, then taped the wood of the bar with his fingers. The bartender nodded and came over with two small glasses of a clear amber liquid, whiskey.

"I don't really drink," Aramis said flatly.

"Here and tonight you do," Dex said as he sipped the drink.

Aramis grimaced.

"It's not too strong," he assured her.

She took a small sip, wincing at the taste in her mouth.

"That's good whiskey … don't waste it," he said.

Now it was Aramis who rolled her eyes.

They stood in silence for a moment before Aramis felt the need to strike up a conversation.

"So, you trust being here alone with me?" she teased.

"I'm not alone. This entire place is filled with NCR. This party was intended for the crime families and brass of the NCR to put aside hostilities and … I suppose let loose," he said, sipped his drink and continued. "It's public … ish. Try something in here and one of these goons will quickly put a stop to it. Plus, there's hundreds of Securitrons Mr. House has operating in this city. So, you see, I'm perfectly safe here beside you," he said with a grin.

"Such precautions," Aramis mocked.

"Call me cautious but you don't exactly have a kind and trusting demeanour," he rebutted.

Aramis was smiling with what he only could assume was pride.

Dex's eyes locked on another figure who materialized in the sea of people.

"That there is Nero," Dex said quietly to Aramis. "His father, Boss Mendoza Omerta owns and runs this place," he explained. "Nero is set to inherit his father's empire when his dad dies, which if we're lucky is any day now. The man has been ill for years. I'm shocked he's lasted this long."

The truth was Dex was more surprised that Nero hadn't offed his own father yet but Boss Mendoza ruled Gomorrah with terror and everyone fell in line, even Nero.

"Who's the older man beside him?" Aramis asked, taking another sip of whiskey.

"Big Sal. Collectively and with the rest of the thugs who run this place, they make up the Omerta family," Dex said.

Nero suddenly caught sight of Dex and headed right for them.

"Shit, they're coming this way," Dex grumbled.

"Major," Nero said, his tone curt and direct. "Enjoying yourself in my family's casino?"

Dex didn't answer.

Nero raised his hand and the bartender abruptly turned and brought Nero and Sal each their own bottle of what appeared to be scotch.

"Don't be rude Major, I'm just making conversation," Nero teased.

Aramis suddenly stepped forward with her hand outstretched.

"Excuse his manners, he's never been known to have much of them," she prattled. "I'm Adeline Rose, friends call me Addy," she said as she shook each man's hand. "I wish I could say I was assigned to put a smile on the good Major's face all night," she said as she jabbed Dex with her elbow playfully. "But sadly, I've known this man since we were kids and I don't think I've ever seen him be a charmer. Pardon me for being so direct, but you said this was your families place? I'm impressed! This is my first time to The Strip and I've never seen anything quite so grand in my life!"

Dex was stunned at her ability to just insert herself so casually.

"And where are you from Addy?" Nero indulged.

"Shady Sands," she beamed. "I'm a schoolteacher there. For young children."

Nero looked captivated while Big Sal stood beside his master like an obedient dog.

"So why do you suppose the Major is so," Nero began when Aramis suddenly cut him off.

"Uptight?" she mocked.

Nero burst out laughing.

"I like this girl!" he gushed.

Dex was in disbelief. Nero was eating out of her hand – at Dex's own expense.

"Alright that's enough," Dex mumbled, trying to appear like he'd had enough.

"Awe come on now big man, we're just having a little fun," Nero pestered.

Suddenly Nero learned in and whispered something in Aramis's ear that was not meant to be heard by anyone else. Aramis was smiling ear to ear. When he was finished, she giggled and gave him a wink.

"Come on Sally boy … Major, always a pleasure," Nero said as they disappeared back in the crowd.

"Ugh what a rodent," Aramis uttered as she turned to face Dex, her once bubbly smile now a stern scowl.

"What did he say?" Dex asked.

"He told me his room number and all the ways he could use his tongue. He also had a couple of choice words about you," she said casually.

Dex was furious. Aramis may not have been a real date, but Nero didn't know that! How dare he!

He must have worn his rage quite clearly because Aramis touched his forearm.

"Relax," she said softly. "Jeez he's just one asshole."

Dex smirked. True, Nero was just one asshole, but they were in a sea of assholes and this ocean belonged to them.


Aramis had begun to wonder why Dex had brought her here. So far all she'd done was meet numerous people within the NCR hierarchy, and several unsavoury characters in the New Vegas crime families. It was all very valuable information – for her only. She couldn't figure out his motivation and it got to a point where it was becoming worrisome.

As the night went on it was clear alcohol and who knows what else was starting to take effect on the partygoers. The music got louder, the rooms got darker and everywhere she looked, clothing was becoming more and more optional.

Aramis and Dex had, for the most part, glued themselves to various bars and indulged someone from time to time in idle chit chat. It truly felt like work, Aramis thought.

"I can't believe it! You actually came!"

Aramis spun to see a young man grasp Dex firmly on each shoulder and looked him up and down like he was examining him.

This stranger looked to be in his late thirties with smooth black skin, wide bright eyes, short black hair and a smile that made Aramis feel lighter. He wore a deep blue suit and white dress shirt with light brown shoes, very refined. He was tall, taller than Dex but only slightly slimmer. Aramis thought she detected a tattoo on the man's neck, but it was difficult to tell beneath the collar of his shirt and the dark complexion of his skin.

Dex was smirking.

"Don't tell me you brought a date too! Who is this man?!" the stranger called out and pointed to Dex indiscriminately.

"Shh … enough," Dex warned but it was clear he wasn't entirely serious by the smile plastered on his face.

"Casper this is Adeline," Dex said casually.

"Is she real?" Casper said in a playful way. "Your sister?"

"A friend," Dex said nonchalantly.

"Then she'll dance with me," Casper said with an exuberant tone.

"I doubt …" Dex said but Aramis cut him off.

"I'll try but I'm not very good."

Dex shot her a look of discontent but it did little to make her waver.

"Hold this," she said to Dex, passing him her drink.

Dex had no time to protest before Casper took her by the hand and led her towards the dance floor by the stage.

He took both her arms and slid his fingers along her skin so that her hands wrapped around his neck. He pulled her close and put his own arms around her waist.

Aramis swallowed hard. She'd never danced before and knew this was going to be ugly but the look she was getting from Dex from across the room gave her way too much satisfaction. She could see his scowl even from this distance.

"How do you know the Major?" Casper asked, pretty much yelling into her ear over the music. She felt his groin pressing up against hers in the same manner than many of the other couples were dancing to the slow beat around them.

"Old friends," she said, semi-truthfully.

"He's not going to be happy that I'm dancing this way with you," he said with a chuckle.

"He's never happy," Aramis joked back and they both enjoyed a short laugh.

Aramis was actually having fun, in a weird, completely out of her element kind of way. She accepted his lead as they moved, almost melting into one another. In sync with the melody he'd grind and touch her, and Aramis felt strangely aroused by it all. Slowly he moved behind her and she felt a hand on her abdomen and another tracing along her neck. His breath followed his fingertips and he kissed the exposed skin of her neck.

Goosebumps pricked up along her entire body and Aramis felt a wash of desire but all that was gone when Dex cut between them.

"I'm stealing back my date," he said in almost a growl as he took Aramis by the wrist.

"She's all yours!" Casper said and gave Aramis a wink as he disappeared back into the sea of bodies on the dance floor.

"You're not here to fraternize with my co-workers, we are here for work," Dex snapped in a low whisper for her ears only.

Aramis rolled her eyes and said,

"You chose this place."

They sat at a small table away from the large group of partygoers.

"When does Caesar plan to strike the dam?" he immediately dived into.

Aramis scowled.

"I don't know," she said honestly. "We literally just got set up."

"Does he intend on bringing his entire force here and leave Flagstaff?" Dex pressed.

"I don't know that either," she replied. Where were these questions coming from and why did he want to discuss this hear with all these people around?

"For the NCR to see value in your life, you need to give me something here," Dex said cruelly.

Aramis shot him an icy stare and would have likely gotten up and left had a girl carrying a large tray of odd candies not shown up and held them down for their viewing.

They were all bright colours and Aramis thought they looked good to try but as she reached up Dex caught her wrist.

"Don't eat those," he ordered.

The girl with the tray just moved away without saying anything.

"Why not?" Aramis asked curiously.

"They have drugs in them," he said condescendingly.

"Like what?" she asked.

"Who knows."

Aramis slumped back in the chair and looked around the large room. Casper was now dancing with another girl wearing a gorgeous red flowing dress. They looked like they were having fun and Aramis felt bothered that she'd come here for work and not to enjoy the party. She watched as the same girl with the tray passed by them and the dancers took a candy each and popped it in their mouths. A few seconds later they seemed just fine.

Aramis looked back to Dex who was sipping another whiskey and trying to ignore everything around him, including her right now.

"Caesar wishes the Sons and Daughters to come and join us at The Fort," Aramis offered.

Dex's eyes now flashed back over to her.

"Hecate too?" he pressed.

Aramis shrugged and continued.

"He'll be requesting her entire fighting force. I wouldn't be surprised if she came too … given their relationship," she said as if the words tasted sour.

"Their relationship?" Dex inquired, leaning forward.

"Caesar seems to have a soft spot for the woman. As soft as I think Caesar is capable that is. Hecate has her claws in my master … though, I haven't figured out what game she's playing. It must go deeper than survival. I think she wants power," Aramis said candidly.

"This is good to know," Dex said.

Aramis merely shrugged. She didn't care if Dex knew this information. She still had hopes that the NCR would assist her in ridding the Legion from Hecate's annoying presence.

"Look, maybe you work best by sulking in the dark, but I sure don't," Aramis spoke up. She had enough of Dex's cold indifference. Aramis suddenly stood up and walked backed towards the dancefloor.

"Where are you going?" he called after her.

"To work!"

By now, Casper had removed the jacket of his suit and he was wearing just the white dress shirt, but he'd opened up the buttons to air out his skin. Aramis could see a perfect set of abdominal muscles just poking out.

"Adeline!" Casper called out, pointing to her and gesturing with his finger to come closer.

Aramis pushed through the crowd till she was next to him.

"Call me Addy," Aramis said, trying to sound friendly.

"Well, Addy, this lovely creature is the charming Miss Violet … who not only happens to be several ranks higher than me but also who I share a bed with from time to time when she lets me," Casper jested as he introduced the woman in the red dress. She had long flowing black hair and pale white skin. She appeared quite young, probably the same age as Aramis, in their early thirties. She was taller than Aramis but very lean and slight like she'd never had to do any real fighting or hard physical work in her life.

"Welcome to sin city!" Violet chirped pleasantly.

"Addy is Dex's date!" Casper informed.

Violet's eyes widdened in surprise. She took Aramis by the hand and pulled her in.

"I'm sorry you had to come here with Mr. Serious. He may be smoking hot, but I swear, that man needs to loosen up!" Violet teased with a warm smile.

Aramis snickered. She wasn't wrong.

Violet's arms rested on Aramis's shoulders while Casper playfully touched Aramis's hips as the three of them danced together.

"So, what do you do?" Aramis asked loud enough for them both to hear.

"I'm in charge of logistics for the embassy here in New Vegas," Violet explained. "Casper here is a Ranger on leave from R.S. Foxtrot!"

"What's R.S. Foxtrot?" Aramis asked.

"Ranger Station Foxtrot!" Casper spoke up.

"To the west of here! But I'm moving to Alpha next week so I can keep an eye on those Legion pricks!" he announced joyfully. "Maybe nab me a few of those fancy headdresses the Centurions wear to decorate my barracks,"

"Don't look now, but I think we've managed to piss off Dex enough by keeping you hostage out here. He's coming this way," Violet warned.

Aramis glanced over and saw Dex coming right for her.

"Come dance!" Violet said as she suddenly took both Aramis and Dex by the hand and pulled them together.

Dex's chest crashed into Aramis just hard enough that she was slightly winded.

They both stood there awkwardly looking at one another.

"I can literally feel the sexual tension radiating off you two!" Violet continued to tease.

"We aren't those kind of friends," Dex said, instantly snuffing out any previous joy Aramis was having.

Violet rolled her eyes.

"Wait here!" she ordered as she disappeared in the crowd. Aramis tried to follow where she went but the mass of dancing bodies had swallowed her up. Violet was gone for only a couple of minutes but it felt like hours as Aramis stood idle next to Dex and Casper.

Suddenly Violet reemerged besde them all carying small glasses in her hands.

"Here!" Violet exclaimed as she thrust shots out at each of them and kept one for herself.

"To parties that may never end!" she mused. They all downed their shots. Aramis and Dex stood side by side looking awkward. Aramis was thankful when Casper took her arm and pulled her close, allowing Violet to ambush Dex for a dance.

Aramis glanced over her shoulder at Dex and watched as he moved with Violet. Surprisingly he seemed into it and even more surprising was how good a dancer he was. Clearly, with the right partner, he was able to unwind. Hell, the man was even smiling and ... a laugh?! Damn, Aramis thought when she saw him whispering things in Violet's ear and the two exchanged what Aramis could only guess was casual banter.

"Those two have a history?" Aramis asked Casper as she gestured to Dex and Violet.

"What?" Casper questioned as he turned his head. "Those two?! Ha! No ... just friends ... Dex never mixes work and pleasure. Fuck, Dex works all the time so I'm sure you can figure out just what kind of social life he leads. We're honestly all shocked he brought someone to this. It's kind of a big deal. I honestly thought you were just some other spy type when he first introduced you! It's not like him to show any kind of normal human side."

Aramis forced a simple smile that masked her unease.

"But it didn't take long for me to see he clearly likes you way too much for this to be business," Casper concluded.

Aramis suddenly felt slightly lighter though she was uncertain whether or not it came from his words or the drink.

"What makes you say that?" she asked.

"Every time I touch you in just the right way I catch him glancing over," Casper said with a wide grin.

Aramis laughed.

"Should we rile him up some more?" Casper asked.

"Most definitely!" Aramis just about begged.

Suddenly Casper pulled her in even more and started dancing with her in a way that was most provocative, a way many partners in this room danced with one another. His hands caressed down her sides, he lifted the hem of her dress and traced fingers along her thigh. It was bliss. Aramis felt her skin sizzling with every sensual touch. She forced herself to blink several times. Was Casper really capable of arousing her so? Even more, her mind felt as though it was surrendering all inhibitions without her rational consent. After what seemed like only a few short seconds Aramis started to feel a little … off. She hadn't had that much to drink and yet it felt as though she'd drank the entire bottle on her own. When Casper touched her again, it felt like his hand would melt into her skin. It felt eerily strange but she loved the sensation.

"What was that? Do that again!" she said cheerfully.

Casper looked her in the eye and begun to laugh.

"Violet, you sly little devil!" he teased.

"What?" Aramis muttered. "What did she do?"

Casper was laughing … at least Aramis thought he was laughing. Sounds started to blend, and she bounced between moments of lucidity and moments of utter euphoria.

In one of the moments where things were clear, Aramis grabbed Dex by the arm and leaned into him.

"I feel weird," she uttered cautiously.

"What do you mean? You look fine … I mean … you look normal … not that you don't look fine … you also look fine," Dex rambled. Shit, he was acting strange too.

"What was that shot?!" Aramis asked but the music was too loud, and her voice was drowned out by the noise.

She felt someone take her hand … it was Violet … and she put Aramis's hand into Dex's and felt him squeeze it tightly. Suddenly they were pushed together and Aramis felt his arms wrap around her as they stood still for a moment.

He said something but Aramis couldn't hear.

"What?!" she yelled.

Dex leaned into her ear.

"You're a terrible dancer!" he teased.

Aramis laughed and said,

"Then teach me!"

Dex was smirking as he took hold of Aramis's arms and pulled her in closer. Just like with Casper, he moved into her with the rhythm and the beat of the music. One leg slid between her own and she felt it touch her inner thigh. She shuddered when his fingers dug into the exposed skin of her back.

Aramis glanced over and saw Violet and Casper locked passionately in a deep kiss.

She started laughing but that's when she felt Dex grip her chin and pull her mouth to his. Before she knew what was happening, they were kissing. Aramis pulled away, not in defiance but because she thought it was too funny that they were now kissing.

"We hate each other!" she teased as she let out a chuckle.

"So … does that matter?" he asked with a raised brow. "I won't tell if you won't," he added with a playful smile.

Aramis shrugged and before she could tell her body otherwise, it leaned forward and took Dex in another embrace.

Aramis couldn't tell where her body begun and where it ended. Suddenly the world as she knew it didn't exist anymore, it was just the two of them, at this moment, surrounded by noise … and the noise told them to keep going.

The kiss seemed to last for an eternity when in reality it may have been a minute at the most.

The music was booming. The crowd was alive. People were dancing, swaying, moving to the rhythm and Aramis was loving every minute of it. His touch made her shudder with delight. Every kiss he planted on her skin made her veins shiver.

Suddenly Violet was between them.

"Here!" she cut in. "I think you two need this more than we do," she said as she handed a small key to Dex. "Room 209 … it's yours."

Dex examined the key.

Aramis swiped it out of his hand and inspected it carefully.

"What's it for?" she asked.

"For here!" Violet yelled over the music. "Fuck, how much did I give you…"

"Let's go see!" Aramis announced, smiling at Dex.

She took his hand and before she knew what she was doing, she was leading him through the packed casino.

"It's like a secret door. This key opens that door. We have to find it," she said like it all made perfect sense. "Where could it be?"

"This way!" Dex announced as brought them to a set of elevators. He pressed the button and when the doors open the crashed inside. Luckily, they were the only ones and where their bodies hit the far wall of the elevator, they took one another in each other's arms once again and kissed. Dex felt for the back of Aramis' thighs and lifted her into him so that her legs could wrap around his waist. He pinned her to the wall and kissed the bare skin of her chest, just above her breasts, still covered by her dress.

"Fuck!" he suddenly broke off. "I forgot to press the button!"

They both started laughing.

"Which one?!" Aramis asked.

"I don't know … try them all," he suggested.

Aramis pushed all the buttons and the elevator jerked. When the doors opened, they crashed out into the hallway.

"Shh …. People may be sleeping," he warned with a smile plastered on his face.

"There's a massive party going on!" Aramis exclaimed.

"Oh yeah," he mumbled.

Dex inserted the key in the first door. Nothing. They went to six more doors before one of them finally allowed them to enter the room.

"Thank fuck … I would have broken it down had it not worked this time," Dex said as they spilt into the room.

Aramis didn't have time to note the décor … she pulled Dex down onto the first soft surface they encountered, and fortunately it seemed to be the bed.

Before she knew it, they'd gotten completely undressed and she'd climbed on top of him. He pulled her down by the back of her neck, so her mouth once again met his while his free hand explored her body. It moved over her breast, gently squeezing then tugging as her tiny pink nipple. He giggled when it sprang back.

They both giggled.

"This is such a bad idea!" Dex said in a cheery tone.

"I know! … Shhhh" Aramis replied teasingly. She lowered herself down, so her face came to rest just above his groin. It was at this moment she saw what awaited her. Standing firm, Dex's well-endowed member oozed with precum and anticipation. Without hesitation she licked the tip slowly, tasting just a sample of him.

He groaned deeply.

"Don't tease me like that … fuck it's been too long," he begged.

Aramis wrapped her hand around his shaft and slowly worked it up and down, feeling it meet the resistance of friction. To remedy that, she allowed her mouth to slide all the way down his shaft, licking and sucking, feeling her hand glide over him with added ease.

"Nope, I need you now … like right now," he suddenly exclaimed as he rose up, reaching for her arms to pull her hips to his.

She straddled him, watching as he positioned his cock at her entrance. When she felt him just in the right spot, she lowered herself down, feeling him enter her, filling her entirely. She let out a long moan, fingers digging into his ribs and eyes firmly closed.

He took her by the waist and rocked her back and forth. She felt him move inside her and it felt incredible. Her mind was silent apart from this moment. Nothing mattered. She wanted to feel everything about him. She raised and lowered her hips, each time trying to push herself deeper into him.

"Show me how you work my cock," he cooed breathlessly.

Aramis picked up her pace as she bucked her hips up and down, resting her hands on his chest.

He released her waist and grasped both breasts firmly in his hands and squeezed them tightly.

Aramis let out a cry of ecstasy.

When she leaned back, using her hands to prop herself it gave him a whole new depth and angle that she screamed in delight, biting her lip to try and calm her body.

"You like it with me on top, don't you?" she called out.

"Yes … fuck yes!" he uttered as he watched her small breasts bounce up and down.

"Like the view?"

"Ugh … uh … huh."

Aramis could feel how wide her smile was. Her cheeks were actually getting sore. His hand reached up and grasped her ass tightly. He gave it a light smack before grabbing the skin roughly once more. It felt so fucking good.

Like it was instinct, she brought a hand between her legs and traced a finger along her nub while he slid deep and hard inside her over and over again.

It all felt surreal. This place, this room, him. She felt her climax growing and judging by his more erratic movement, he was getting very close too. It felt as though they were rocking on a boat, the room was moving, and Aramis couldn't fixate on anything except the pleasure. As her fingers explored her clit she leaned down and kissed him deeply.

Suddenly she felt the familiar sensation of the building orgasm but when it finally came, it washed over her in a way she'd never felt before. She let out a shriek, breaking their kiss as her body went stiff. Every tiny spot on her body felt as though someone had touched her ever so gently with a needle. Her mouth fell open and she dug her fingers into his skin with no regard for his flesh.

"You're going to take this now," he moaned, and she felt him buck forcefully up inside her and at that moment his cum filled her. Her body felt as though it would explode from the force of his jerking. It was violent and raw, but she loved it. He held himself there for a few seconds as the pulsating member between her legs released more and more.

When she finally felt him finish, she slid herself off and looked down at the glistening mess between both their legs.

"Holy fuck," he moaned.

Curious Aramis slunk down until her face was just a few inches from his softening cock.

"What are you? ….. oh fuck…" he groaned when she used her tongue to clean him from tip to base. "How do you do that so well?" he asked with a wide grin.

Aramis smiled between gentle licks.

When she was done, she climbed her way back up, so they lay facing one another on the bed. His hand suddenly reached out and touched the soft skin of her cheek.

"Why did we wait so long to do that?" he asked with a sheepish grin.

"I don't know," Aramis answered, breathlessly. "My body feels so heavy," she added as she felt herself come back into the moment.

"Mine too."

"What do we do now?" she asked.

"I don't know," he said as his grin widened when he looked down and saw her fingers sliding down his bare chest, passed his navel and coming to his shaft.

She raised a brow.

"Again?" he asked.

"Fuck yeah," she said excitedly as he got on top of her.

XXX

Time was a concept neither of them could comprehend. In that room, during those hours they surrendered their inhibitions and found a meaningful connection through fanatical sex. If her body didn't ache from utter exhaustion, she would have craved more but even he was exhibiting signs of incapacitation.

They collapsed in surrender, him on his back and her nestled on her side next to him with a leg resting over his groin.

She begun to count her breaths, critically thinking her way through each deep inhale and exhale like the automatic response from her brain had been severed.

"Aramis?" Dex spoke up.

"Yeah?" she said.

"Nothing … just wanted to make sure you were still here," he said.

Aramis giggled, her hand caressing up and down his bare chest.

"Dex?" she asked.

"Yeah?"

"You're still an asshole," she said with a wide grin.

"I know," he replied with a similar smirk.

They closed their eyes as they came down from their high. Aramis counted down from ten but by seven she was fast asleep.