Disclaimer: I own nothing except for my OC and the alterations in the storyline plot her presence provides.

Between Love And Blood Chapter 13

The whole time on the rest of the journey down through the lower levels not a word was passed between Justin and I. The only time we did speak was when we'd reached the floor that contains the main chamber where all are housed.

"Well," I said, fixing myself up further while checking into our supply of water, "this is where I leave you."

"You sure? I'm actually about to do down to speak to Nicodemus. It's all right if you wish to come along," said Justin.

Shaking my head, patting his chest, I said "Your offer is kind, but I should've begun cooking the evening meal a while ago. I didn't prepare any breakfast or lunch for Jenner before we left earlier so he must be quite famished by now. I don't wish to keep him waiting any more than he has to."

Hands on hips, Justin chuckled "You've always so sensitive to what others need, Joanna. When are you going to be more aware of your own?"

Shrugging, I said "Not sure. Probably when I'm no longer needed."

Without any sort of warning Justin reached forward tugging me in a strong embrace. Hesitantly I wrapped my arms around him returning his hug. Unknown to the both of us a figure was observing them closely in the shadows teeth gritted and jaw clenched in anger and agitation, but didn't interfere waiting for the moment when Joanna is alone and out of sight from prying eyes.

Extracting himself, Justin said "You're a good woman, Joanna. Hopefully we'll get to Thorn Valley soon lifting more of the burden off your shoulders."

"I'll be so glad when that happens," I agreed, forming a fake smile on my lips. "It'll be a huge relief at being able to see what Thorn Valley has to offer."

"Have a good night," said Justin, having the last word before moving off.

I stood there watching him go until he turned a corner down a corridor out of range. As I began to head my own way I failed to notice the malevolent rat tracking me at a close distance. It was only once I arrived at our chambers did I discover the danger zooming in fast.

I had just put a hand on the doorknob pushing the door partially open inside when it happened. A rough hand shot out of nowhere grabbing ahold of the back of my neck in a tight grip. Before a scream or sound of protect can be uttered I was shoved hard and the assailant slammed the door shut.

Losing my footing I tripped falling hard onto the cold stone floor. I caught myself so my head didn't hit the floor preventing any serious injury.

"Having fun were you," snarled Jenner, arms crossed, eyes blazing with unbridled fury.

"What are you talking about," I said.

Each time Jenner steps closer I instinctively back away.

"Don't give me that crap,' snarled Jenner, eyes flashing. "I know you left the Rosebush this day. Don't even try to deny it! Brutus informed me as I scoured the compound for you."

"It was not my intention," I said, making an effort to keep myself calm and composed despite feeling so fearful. "Unlike a lot of the others living here I know better than to even attempt to pull a fast one on you."

"I have told you many times not to leave the Rosebush," said Jenner, stopping about a foot away beginning to pace back and forth. "I don't know how much more clear I can be about that. What could've possessed you toy to-."

"I left in order to follow your orders," I shouted, interrupting him in the middle of his rant.

Normally I wouldn't dare, but he was getting so wound up over this that I have to speak out.

Brows cocked Jenner folded his arms as he ceased pacing. He turned toward me.

"Explain yourself," commanded Jenner.

So I quickly got into it explaining my reasons to him for leaving the way I did. Telling him took a suitable amount of time. With everything I told him Jenner appears to calm down considerably to an extent especially when I informed him how I spied on his behalf. There's a significant amount of intrigue on his face at hearing the conversation I'd eavesdropped on and how I subtly destroyed the map that was assumed to be used for the Plan including the time and work it would take to recreate.

We stood there in silence for a while as Jenner contemplates these new pieces of information. I patently wait for him to say something. After a few minutes I can't stand not receiving any type of reaction from him.

Cautiously stepping forward to place a hand on his shoulder, I said "Jenner?"

Jenner broke out of the trance he'd fallen into. Instantly he looks me in the eye an enormous grin spread across his muzzle unveiling his teeth.

Lightly gripping my shoulder, Jenner chuckled "Well done, Sister. What you have done is nothing I would've expected of your person."

Eyes widening in surprise and apprehension, I said "So…you're no longer disappointed?"

"On the contrary I am quite disappointed that you left the compound without saying anything to me first," he said, causing me to flinch lightly, "but the results from you endeavor have well made up for that now in spades."

Confused, I said "I don't understand. All I did was damage the map. It won't take long for Mr. Ages to make a new one."

Nodding, Jenner said "True, but the destruction of the present map is already significant enough. The time bought by it might be enough to continue my case further to the whole Council. Perhaps they'll finally see the truth behind my words."

"What do you wish for me to do," I asked. "Do you wish for me to step back now or to continue? If what I've already done is good enough-."

"I don't think so," interrupted Jenner, smirking. "Nice try, Joanna, but the orders given to you aren't quite nearly finished yet. There is still plenty of work to be done."

Grimacing I couldn't help being hopeful, I said "I don't know what else I can do."

Jenner said "Simple. Report back to me everything you come across and sabotage as much carefully laid plans as you can. Basically others of what you've already been doing today."

"But for how long," I whispered, forlorn.

Sternly, Jenner said "Until I say." The tone of voice made it very clear the discussion is over and even attempting to argue wouldn't be the wisest decision to make at this hour. "Am I understood?"

"Yes," I said, meekly.

Satisfied with the general answer, Jenner said "Very good. Now get started on dinner. I'm starving."

"I'll get right on that. I'm sorry for the wait," I said.

Immediately I went over to the hearth to get a fire started. Next to the roaring fire as I was cutting up some vegetables for supper tears trailed down my face unseen by Jenner. One he would never know in this life ever.

Authors Note:

Hope you all like this one! I certainly did while writing it for your vast enjoyment! ;D

I'm glad to have finally gotten back to this after such a long absence compared to some others on my profile. I've been meaning to for a while and only now I've managed to find time and inspiration for it. Still in the beginning stages, but I'm very satisfied and happy about it.

I recently put up a new story called Fish Out Of Water. It's a crossover between the movie Shape of Water and the show Siren. So far I have everything figured out except one little thing. A name for my OC. Basically, since my OC character is in fact a mermaid I want the name to be in reference to the oceans or any other body of water similar to lakes or rivers. I'm more than open to suggestions so like I usually do in situations like this I'm turning it into a contest. The reader who gives me the winning name gets a question answered about the plot of the changed storyline in question. So think long and hard guys on the name and the type of question you'd like me to answer. Because you only get the one until the next opportunity arises for the taking. ;D