All righty. Sorry it's taken me a week but I have exactly a week and a
half left of school and then finals, so needless to say things are busy as
hell. This chapter was originally longer, but I decided to break it into
two pieces. Hee, hee. I know I'm evil, but this way you can have a
cliffy, and since the other half is already to go, I'll post it a few days
from now.
I wanted to clear something up real fast because I'm a dork and I think I might have confused some with the last chapter. Tyran didn't kill Lily's brother. Technically, that was Selene, but Tyran was there, doing something he shouldn't have been, which I promise to explain in a chapter or so from now. I'm sorry for the confusion, but thanks for trudging through. :) and...
THANK ALL OF YOU SO MUCH FOR THE REVIEWS! As always, you guys rock.
Chapter Thirteen: Taken
Markus climbed through his window and closed it shut behind him. He leaned wearily against the wall and glanced down at his chest. It was full of holes and oozing blood. His healing capabilities had already begun the scabbing process with the bullets still inside of him. Grunting heavily he changed back to his more astute form, pushing the bullets out as his body became slightly smaller.
"Damn that bitch." He cursed angrily. He could have killed her, but then that lycan had shown up.
Pacing nervously Markus clasped his hands behind his back. He could have killed the lycan. The beast would have been no match for his superior strength, so then why hadn't he? Something inside of him had cried out once the lycanthrope scent had hit his nostrils. It was unconscious; bubbling up from some dark corner of his mind he hadn't even known existed. He'd heard a wolf howling, and when he'd been face to face with another lycan he had been unable to attack. Rather than expose himself and his new form he had decided to retreat.
Confused by his inability to attack the worthless dog he refocused his attention. *There was a girl with them. Who was she? And what would Selene want with a human child?* He ran his fingers over his chin as he pondered the possibilities, then he remembered something.
Opening the double doors to his room he hollered in his most mighty voice, "Kahn!"
Kahn heard the echo from his room down the hall. He groaned loudly and peeled himself off his bed. Limping, he made his way to Markus's chamber. He entered and knelt down before his ruler. "Yes my lord?"
Markus half smiled. "Good morning Kahn. Just settling in for the day I take it?"
"Yes my lord." Kahn was still kneeling.
Markus shook his head. "Enough with the formalities, on your feet solider."
Kahn rose slowly, taking care to not put pressure on his right leg.
"I see you're still suffering the effects from your encounter with Selene."
Kahn nodded. "Yes my lord."
"You'll have that limp for the rest of your immortal life, will you not?"
"Yes my lord."
"Dammit Kahn! Say something else besides that. I have important things to ask of you." Markus was becoming extremely annoyed at his minion's failure to communicate.
Kahn was in no mood to play the youngest elders silly games, but he did his best to check his temper. "Then please my lord, ask what you will."
Markus rolled his eyes. "You are too serious Kahn. Too many years of killing lycans has made you rather dull." He stared hard at the man before then shrugged. "But never mind that. I wish to know where you first found Selene."
Kahn's eyes shot up as he suddenly became nervous. When he'd come back injured, he had avoided Markus questions at all costs. It seemed that time had finally caught up to him. "She was hiding in the outskirts of town my lord."
"Did she keep any particular company?"
"Just the abomination my lord."
Markus flinched at the term his warrior had used. "Hybrid, dear Kahn. Let's call him what he is."
Kahn gave Markus a strange look. "Very well my lord. She was with the Hybrid."
"There was no one else?"
Kahn hesitated.
"Kahn? Was there anyone else with her?"
Kahn kept his gaze to the floor. He knew if he were caught lying it would mean instant death. *I'm sorry Selene. I tried as long as I could.* "Yes my lord." He said heavily. "There was a human with them."
"A human female?" The tone of Markus's voice became anxious.
"Yes my lord. She was hiding them when we found her."
"And did she know the truth of their origins?"
"I do not know my lord."
Markus nodded and took a moment to think. * If the girl I saw last night was the same one who had harbored the traitors then she could provide useful information to us.* "I want you to assemble a team of Death Dealers to stake out the place where you originally found her. I have reason to believe that the human girl is traveling with them now. If she is still merely a human she will crave her home. Wait for her there, and bring her back to me unharmed."
Kahn lowered his head in a mock bow. "Very well my lord." *You pompous ass.* He thought to himself then turned to leave.
"And Kahn," Markus called out from behind him. "I expect results this time."
Kahn nodded. "Yes my lord." Then ducked out of the room as fast as he could. Once inside his room he shut the door and fell against it, eyes closed. His leg wasn't the only thing suffering from his encounter with the ex death dealer. Every time he turned around he kept hearing her words. *It's all lies Kahn.*
He banged his head against the door. "If Viktor were still alive..." Then he stopped and opened his eyes. Selene had killed Viktor, but why? Kahn had just assumed as the rest of the coven did that it was because of the lycan... "But what if it wasn't? What if there was another reason?" He spoke out loud, hoping the sound of his own voice would trigger something, but it was useless.
Shaking all thoughts from his head he moved to his bed. *Damn Selene and her cryptic words. I'm through with this shit.* Come nightfall, he would assemble the death dealers.
* * *
Selene led the way as her, Lily, and Tyran headed back into the ground. She ached for sleep, but she still had to tell Michael about their mysterious attacker. She looked behind her at Lily. The girl hadn't said much since they'd gotten in the car. Selene assumed it was exhaustion. It's been a long night for all of them.
As they rounded the corner Selene's eyes fell upon Michael who was cornered by a female lycan just outside the weapons room. Selene's eyes narrowed and she stopped.
Lily, who had kept her gaze to the ground, ran right into the back of her vampire teacher. "What the hell?" Selene said nothing and Lily followed her gaze to the scene unfolding before them. A woman with a mane of jet- black hair was standing obscenely close to Michael. She was standing with her hip slightly jutting out, head cocked lightly to the side so that her hair swept forward, smiling way too big, and reaching out to touch Michael's arm after every time he spoke. Michael; however, wore a rather bored and annoyed expression. He kept looking over her, instead of at her.
"That's just fucking rude." Tyran spoke angrily.
"Who the hell is that?" Lily was disgusted.
"Kendra." Selene said flatly.
"What the hell does she think she's doing anyway? As far as the pack is concerned Michael's mated. She shouldn't even be considering standing that close to him." Tyran was outraged.
Selene scoffed, not taking her eyes off of Michael. "Tyran, the whole pack knows were not together. They're just too goddamn polite to say anything." She tried not to sound angry, but failed miserably.
Lily crossed her arms. "Well if you ask me YOU are being to goddamn polite."
"Why? I don't own him; let him do what he wants." She finally pulled her eyes away from him and casually walked down the other side of the room. She kept her eyes forward; acting like she hadn't even noticed him, but it didn't work.
"Selene!" Michael's searching eyes had been waiting for her. He looked Kendra in the face and plastered a fake smile. "Um, that sounds really interesting. We'll talk later about it." He placed a friendly hand on her shoulder then bolted for Selene.
Selene inhaled sharply and slowed her pace. *Dammit.* She cursed in her mind. She kept her back to him, hesitating on weather to keep going or wait. The hesitation doomed her. He came up from behind, wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered playfully next to her ear, "Hello baby."
She closed her eyes. *Oh God.*
Tyran and Lily tried to sneak past the couple, but Michael hollered out over Selene's shoulder. "Hey Ty, Lily. How's your evening been?"
Lily held back the laughter. She saw the annoyed look on Selene's face, and knew that Michael was enjoying every minute of it. "Just fine, but I'm very tired."
Tyran nodded in agreement. "Yep, me too." He looked at Selene. "I'll put the kid to bed for you." He motioned to Lily with his hand.
"Kid? I'm 18 you overgrown puppy." She placed her hands on her hips.
"Kid, 18 don't mean squat down here. You're still an ameba to us. Now, bed!" He pointed down the hall.
She shuffled along slowly. "One of these days Tyran." She threatened playfully. The wolf reached out, ruffled her hair, and laughed.
Michael, who still held Selene tightly around the waist, rubbed his nose along the line of her neck. "Mmm, you smell good." He said softly into her neck.
She felt a chill run up her spine at the intimate contact. They'd both been busy in the past weeks preparing for the coming battle. She hadn't seen much of him, and when she did it was all business talk. This was the first time he'd tried to touch her in a week, but she was still annoyed at the display with Kendra. "If you don't stop sniffing me I'll make sure you won't be able to smell anything for a goddamn month."
"Oh, them's fighting words. Ok," He said smoothly while turning her around to face him and backing her into a dark corner. "What about this?" He leaned down and placed his lips on hers.
She was mad at him, wasn't she? But the moment his lips touched hers she seemed to forget all about it. She opened her mouth to his roaming tongue, and felt heat in the pit of her stomach as she playfully fought his mouth for control. When he relinquished and pulled away she was afraid to open her eyes.
"Better?" He whispered against her mouth.
"Uh huh. Much." She said softly and opened her eyes to get caught in his glowing brown ones.
"Good" he smiled then leaned down to kiss her again.
"Michael!" The voice echoed from down the hall. "Michael!"
Michael bent his head and placed it against Selene's shoulder. He let out a large, frustrated sigh, then lifted his head and shouted. "What do you want?"
A young lycan with shaggy, light brown hair and dark gray eyes rounded the corner. He was short, and clothed in baggy jeans and the standard two jackets.
"What is it Lucas?" Michael asked curtly, still keeping his hands placed lightly around Selene's waist. "I'm a little busy."
"Sorry to bother you Sir." Lucas turned to Selene who was staring blankly at him. "I'm sorry Miss Selene."
Selene sighed and rolled her eyes. "It's alright Lucas. I was just heading to bed." She removed Michael's hands from her hips.
"Selene." Michael said softly, beginning to apologize for the interruption. Lately, there was always an interruption.
"Good day Michael." She said calmly and headed back to their quarters.
Michael sighed heavily and turned to the young lycan who had watched the exchange with fearful eyes. "I'm really sorry sir."
"Lucas, it's alright. Just tell me what it is." He checked his temper.
"Well it has to do with the cage sir. Matt had this idea about changing its frame to make it fall differently. He wanted you to come take a look at the plans so we can get started on it right away. If you like it of course."
Michael nodded. "Fine." Then he followed the lycan back into the weapons room.
Kendra watched as he disappeared behind the door. Her eyes flashed red as her anger rose.
"Disgusting display isn't it?" Flar came up from behind her, his voice purring like a cat.
"What do you want Flar?"
"Just to see how you were getting along. It appears as if Michael holds no more interest in you today than he did yesterday. Or the day before that."
"It's that fucking vampire bitch." She growled angrily. "It isn't bad enough that they run around and kill are kind, but now their taking our men as well."
"Michael isn't one of us."
"More so than she is."
"It's the position you like Kendra. Admit it."
Kendra now turned around to face the muscular lycan. "A man such as Michael doesn't yet understand the full extent of his power over the pack."
Flar sneered. "And you intend to show him I suppose."
"You could say that." She turned back around and snarled. "If I could just get that bloodsucker out of my way he would have no distractions."
Flar came closer to her and spoke cold next to her ear. "We should talk." He said calmly. "I think we might be able to help each other."
Kendra listened silently, and then turned to face him, teeth gleaming. "You have a deal."
* * *
Lily stared at the ceiling as she lay in bed, but her thoughts went beyond the concrete. Tried as she might she could not conjure the images that had played before her in the tunnel last night, but she knew what she saw. She closed her eyes, focusing. Her fingers mindlessly caressed the black jewel at her neck.
*We were at that tower last night. I'd been there before but why didn't I remember when I first got there?* Her mind was swimming with questions. She wasn't exactly sure what this meant. *Selene said she went there all the time. I remembered when Selene...* Lily eyes opened wide. "When she saved my life." The sound of her own voice frightened her. *It was just like that night, but that would mean...* "Shit." She mumbled into the darkness. She didn't want to think about what it would mean. She couldn't be sure if this was all real or not. Maybe her mind was playing tricks on her. *But it felt real. I remember her.*
Before her mind could take its train of thought any further Selene burst through the door.
"Back so soon?" Lily muttered quietly.
Selene didn't say anything, but walked into the bathroom and turned on the shower. She came back out to retrieve a set of clothes from a pack that sat on the floor.
"Did you get a chance to talk with Michael?" Lily sat up in bed, trying to engage her instructor.
"He was busy. Now go to sleep."
"He didn't look busy when I left."
"Go to sleep Lily." Selene's tone left no room for argument. Something had royally pissed her off.
*Fine.* Lily thought to herself. She was tired of trying to help. *Fuck it.* She laid her head upon her pillow and washed her mind of all thoughts but those of her brother. In minutes she was sound asleep.
---------
He breathed in the musk of the damp air. The room was unearthly quiet except for a drip, drip, drip that echoed about the tunnels. Even from his hiding place, the shafts of the bathroom ceiling, he could hear the water. Strangely enough it had soothed him while he waited, but that time had come to an end. Night was approaching, and he had a mission to do. Effortlessly, he swung down from the shafts and landed silently on the bathroom floor. Without a sound he moved to the door, opened it and emerged into the room that held his target.
He glanced to his left and saw the sleeping vampiress. He shook his head. *I'm sorry my lady, but orders are orders. I sincerely hope you stay asleep.* He coaxed her with his mind, and then turned his eyes to the bed. In a silent flash he was beside the bed and the girl that slept within it. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a small white cloth and placed it over her face. Her eyes snapped open; she inhaled deeply, and dropped her head back down to the pillow. *That's a girl.* He bent down, threw her over his shoulder, and headed back towards the bathroom.
*Oops!* He mentally chastised himself. *I almost forgot.* He removed a piece of paper from his pocket and placed it on the arm of the couch the vampire rested on. Then went back to hiding in the shafts, girl in tow. Once he was sure they couldn't be seen, he picked up a broken piece of cement and chucked it at the bathroom door, making a loud clang.
Selene grabbed her gun from beneath her pillow and aimed it straight at the bathroom door. She kept her eyes trained on the direction the sound had come from, but nothing happened. Finally letting herself breath she caught a flash of white as it floated down to her feet. Taking another look around she knelt to pick it up. It was a letter addressed to her.
My Dearest Selene,
I regret to inform you that the key to the success of your little operation is now in my custody. Your presence is requested at the 22nd safe house at 8:00. Come alone. There will be people watching you, and if your lycan half-breed follows you both of them will be shot on sight. I hope I've made myself clear.
It was left unsigned. Selene glanced frantically towards the bed. The blankets were ruffled, but there was no body. "Fuck." She swore loudly. She stormed over to her desk, opened the top drawer, and grabbed a second gun. She checked the ammunition and slammed the clip back into the gun. "Goddamn bullshit." She swore again while grabbing her trench coat and throwing it over her shoulders. She let the door slam shut as she hastily left her quarters.
The man hiding in the bathroom peeked his head out as he heard the door clang shut. He waited a few moments, and hauled the girl out into the room. He held her to the front of him and wrapped the folds of his coat around her. Then, he opened the door and casually strolled into the underground tunnels. He waddled down the hall and ducked behind a dark corner. He let the girl fall to the ground and knelt to pry open the manhole. Lifting her over his shoulder he jumped down. Once he had placed his captive on the ground he climbed back up to seal the hidden entrance and then was gone.
From the adjacent room Michael heard the door slam shut and threw himself out of bed. He peered through adjoining door to Selene's room, but there was no one there. Moving quickly he glanced out the main door and saw Selene's billowing coat as she flew down the hall. *Where in the hell is she going?* She was heading in the opposite direction as the training room, and Lily was nowhere in sight. Running back to his room he grabbed his jacket and decided to follow her.
----------- Ok, so there it be. Next part will be up in three or four days, depending on when I can access the Internet. (I'm moving out right now, so things are tentative). Anyways, please let me know what you think. And thanks for reading.
Adalon Ithilriel: LOL! Well my Flar fan, he was in this chapter a bit, but don't worry you'll be seeing more of him soon. And what do you mean your plot twists never go right...Hello! Does Rene ring a bell? That was an awesome shock! But thank you for the complement. I'm glad it went off well. As far as what Lily is remembering, I'm sorry to say you won't know till the very end...err...well you might be able to guess but... ah you'll just see! Thanks for the review as always. You're awesome.
pantheraleo: Your reviews almost bring tears to my eyes they are so kind! Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review. Hee hee, sorry if I confused you about Tyran. That was my bad, but I'm not sure if Lily will be as accepting. Right now she's just got fragments and confusion, but once she's out from under Selene's wing, and in and amongst vampires, who knows what she'll discover! ;) And I wasn't worried about the grammar; I actually enjoy people editing my stuff. I mean, my stories are like my babies so the better I can make them, the happier I am. Thanks you so much for your reviews though. I'm flattered.
The Lady Mage: Hello there girlie...how's Second Chances coming? *wink, wink* Thanks for reviewing. Sorry to hear your sick, me too, but since that was a week ago hope your feeling better! Thanks again.
Morrgaine : Your back! I was almost worried there for a second. ;) Just kidding. I'm glad that your enjoying the Selene/Lily bonding stuff. It's important for the ending, but I was a bit worried how people would take it. Not your typical underworld stuff. I added a bit more Selene/Michael this chapter. Thanks to your suggestion, I actually developed a whole new character. Ha ha, like I needed one, but she makes things a bit more interesting. So thanks for the idea! And as always, thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Redd: *smiles* Glad my since of humor isn't lost on everyone. Thanks for the review...but you need time out from your editor? Hum...Editors are scary...I know mine is! Thanks again for the support.
vampirehuntr00: You are awesome for managing to plow through this entire thing so far. I can't thank you enough for doing that. Makes me happy. I have every intention of checking out Eternal Life as soon as I get some time. I keep hearing a lot about Charli and what an awesome character she is. I'll look forward to that. ;) Thanks again for reviewing.
VampyricAngel: Yay! Someone liked the bungee jump! Ha ha, that was actually inspired by a strange talk I had with a random friend at school. Amazing where inspiration pops up. Thanks for the review and your kind words. I'm glad you like, and don't worry I will hiss...LOUDLY if I need some help. Thank you for offering. :)
Merion: LOL...I'll be sure to do that dear, but as soon as I'm done with this, I need to send your fic back to you! Thanks for the review!
I wanted to clear something up real fast because I'm a dork and I think I might have confused some with the last chapter. Tyran didn't kill Lily's brother. Technically, that was Selene, but Tyran was there, doing something he shouldn't have been, which I promise to explain in a chapter or so from now. I'm sorry for the confusion, but thanks for trudging through. :) and...
THANK ALL OF YOU SO MUCH FOR THE REVIEWS! As always, you guys rock.
Chapter Thirteen: Taken
Markus climbed through his window and closed it shut behind him. He leaned wearily against the wall and glanced down at his chest. It was full of holes and oozing blood. His healing capabilities had already begun the scabbing process with the bullets still inside of him. Grunting heavily he changed back to his more astute form, pushing the bullets out as his body became slightly smaller.
"Damn that bitch." He cursed angrily. He could have killed her, but then that lycan had shown up.
Pacing nervously Markus clasped his hands behind his back. He could have killed the lycan. The beast would have been no match for his superior strength, so then why hadn't he? Something inside of him had cried out once the lycanthrope scent had hit his nostrils. It was unconscious; bubbling up from some dark corner of his mind he hadn't even known existed. He'd heard a wolf howling, and when he'd been face to face with another lycan he had been unable to attack. Rather than expose himself and his new form he had decided to retreat.
Confused by his inability to attack the worthless dog he refocused his attention. *There was a girl with them. Who was she? And what would Selene want with a human child?* He ran his fingers over his chin as he pondered the possibilities, then he remembered something.
Opening the double doors to his room he hollered in his most mighty voice, "Kahn!"
Kahn heard the echo from his room down the hall. He groaned loudly and peeled himself off his bed. Limping, he made his way to Markus's chamber. He entered and knelt down before his ruler. "Yes my lord?"
Markus half smiled. "Good morning Kahn. Just settling in for the day I take it?"
"Yes my lord." Kahn was still kneeling.
Markus shook his head. "Enough with the formalities, on your feet solider."
Kahn rose slowly, taking care to not put pressure on his right leg.
"I see you're still suffering the effects from your encounter with Selene."
Kahn nodded. "Yes my lord."
"You'll have that limp for the rest of your immortal life, will you not?"
"Yes my lord."
"Dammit Kahn! Say something else besides that. I have important things to ask of you." Markus was becoming extremely annoyed at his minion's failure to communicate.
Kahn was in no mood to play the youngest elders silly games, but he did his best to check his temper. "Then please my lord, ask what you will."
Markus rolled his eyes. "You are too serious Kahn. Too many years of killing lycans has made you rather dull." He stared hard at the man before then shrugged. "But never mind that. I wish to know where you first found Selene."
Kahn's eyes shot up as he suddenly became nervous. When he'd come back injured, he had avoided Markus questions at all costs. It seemed that time had finally caught up to him. "She was hiding in the outskirts of town my lord."
"Did she keep any particular company?"
"Just the abomination my lord."
Markus flinched at the term his warrior had used. "Hybrid, dear Kahn. Let's call him what he is."
Kahn gave Markus a strange look. "Very well my lord. She was with the Hybrid."
"There was no one else?"
Kahn hesitated.
"Kahn? Was there anyone else with her?"
Kahn kept his gaze to the floor. He knew if he were caught lying it would mean instant death. *I'm sorry Selene. I tried as long as I could.* "Yes my lord." He said heavily. "There was a human with them."
"A human female?" The tone of Markus's voice became anxious.
"Yes my lord. She was hiding them when we found her."
"And did she know the truth of their origins?"
"I do not know my lord."
Markus nodded and took a moment to think. * If the girl I saw last night was the same one who had harbored the traitors then she could provide useful information to us.* "I want you to assemble a team of Death Dealers to stake out the place where you originally found her. I have reason to believe that the human girl is traveling with them now. If she is still merely a human she will crave her home. Wait for her there, and bring her back to me unharmed."
Kahn lowered his head in a mock bow. "Very well my lord." *You pompous ass.* He thought to himself then turned to leave.
"And Kahn," Markus called out from behind him. "I expect results this time."
Kahn nodded. "Yes my lord." Then ducked out of the room as fast as he could. Once inside his room he shut the door and fell against it, eyes closed. His leg wasn't the only thing suffering from his encounter with the ex death dealer. Every time he turned around he kept hearing her words. *It's all lies Kahn.*
He banged his head against the door. "If Viktor were still alive..." Then he stopped and opened his eyes. Selene had killed Viktor, but why? Kahn had just assumed as the rest of the coven did that it was because of the lycan... "But what if it wasn't? What if there was another reason?" He spoke out loud, hoping the sound of his own voice would trigger something, but it was useless.
Shaking all thoughts from his head he moved to his bed. *Damn Selene and her cryptic words. I'm through with this shit.* Come nightfall, he would assemble the death dealers.
* * *
Selene led the way as her, Lily, and Tyran headed back into the ground. She ached for sleep, but she still had to tell Michael about their mysterious attacker. She looked behind her at Lily. The girl hadn't said much since they'd gotten in the car. Selene assumed it was exhaustion. It's been a long night for all of them.
As they rounded the corner Selene's eyes fell upon Michael who was cornered by a female lycan just outside the weapons room. Selene's eyes narrowed and she stopped.
Lily, who had kept her gaze to the ground, ran right into the back of her vampire teacher. "What the hell?" Selene said nothing and Lily followed her gaze to the scene unfolding before them. A woman with a mane of jet- black hair was standing obscenely close to Michael. She was standing with her hip slightly jutting out, head cocked lightly to the side so that her hair swept forward, smiling way too big, and reaching out to touch Michael's arm after every time he spoke. Michael; however, wore a rather bored and annoyed expression. He kept looking over her, instead of at her.
"That's just fucking rude." Tyran spoke angrily.
"Who the hell is that?" Lily was disgusted.
"Kendra." Selene said flatly.
"What the hell does she think she's doing anyway? As far as the pack is concerned Michael's mated. She shouldn't even be considering standing that close to him." Tyran was outraged.
Selene scoffed, not taking her eyes off of Michael. "Tyran, the whole pack knows were not together. They're just too goddamn polite to say anything." She tried not to sound angry, but failed miserably.
Lily crossed her arms. "Well if you ask me YOU are being to goddamn polite."
"Why? I don't own him; let him do what he wants." She finally pulled her eyes away from him and casually walked down the other side of the room. She kept her eyes forward; acting like she hadn't even noticed him, but it didn't work.
"Selene!" Michael's searching eyes had been waiting for her. He looked Kendra in the face and plastered a fake smile. "Um, that sounds really interesting. We'll talk later about it." He placed a friendly hand on her shoulder then bolted for Selene.
Selene inhaled sharply and slowed her pace. *Dammit.* She cursed in her mind. She kept her back to him, hesitating on weather to keep going or wait. The hesitation doomed her. He came up from behind, wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered playfully next to her ear, "Hello baby."
She closed her eyes. *Oh God.*
Tyran and Lily tried to sneak past the couple, but Michael hollered out over Selene's shoulder. "Hey Ty, Lily. How's your evening been?"
Lily held back the laughter. She saw the annoyed look on Selene's face, and knew that Michael was enjoying every minute of it. "Just fine, but I'm very tired."
Tyran nodded in agreement. "Yep, me too." He looked at Selene. "I'll put the kid to bed for you." He motioned to Lily with his hand.
"Kid? I'm 18 you overgrown puppy." She placed her hands on her hips.
"Kid, 18 don't mean squat down here. You're still an ameba to us. Now, bed!" He pointed down the hall.
She shuffled along slowly. "One of these days Tyran." She threatened playfully. The wolf reached out, ruffled her hair, and laughed.
Michael, who still held Selene tightly around the waist, rubbed his nose along the line of her neck. "Mmm, you smell good." He said softly into her neck.
She felt a chill run up her spine at the intimate contact. They'd both been busy in the past weeks preparing for the coming battle. She hadn't seen much of him, and when she did it was all business talk. This was the first time he'd tried to touch her in a week, but she was still annoyed at the display with Kendra. "If you don't stop sniffing me I'll make sure you won't be able to smell anything for a goddamn month."
"Oh, them's fighting words. Ok," He said smoothly while turning her around to face him and backing her into a dark corner. "What about this?" He leaned down and placed his lips on hers.
She was mad at him, wasn't she? But the moment his lips touched hers she seemed to forget all about it. She opened her mouth to his roaming tongue, and felt heat in the pit of her stomach as she playfully fought his mouth for control. When he relinquished and pulled away she was afraid to open her eyes.
"Better?" He whispered against her mouth.
"Uh huh. Much." She said softly and opened her eyes to get caught in his glowing brown ones.
"Good" he smiled then leaned down to kiss her again.
"Michael!" The voice echoed from down the hall. "Michael!"
Michael bent his head and placed it against Selene's shoulder. He let out a large, frustrated sigh, then lifted his head and shouted. "What do you want?"
A young lycan with shaggy, light brown hair and dark gray eyes rounded the corner. He was short, and clothed in baggy jeans and the standard two jackets.
"What is it Lucas?" Michael asked curtly, still keeping his hands placed lightly around Selene's waist. "I'm a little busy."
"Sorry to bother you Sir." Lucas turned to Selene who was staring blankly at him. "I'm sorry Miss Selene."
Selene sighed and rolled her eyes. "It's alright Lucas. I was just heading to bed." She removed Michael's hands from her hips.
"Selene." Michael said softly, beginning to apologize for the interruption. Lately, there was always an interruption.
"Good day Michael." She said calmly and headed back to their quarters.
Michael sighed heavily and turned to the young lycan who had watched the exchange with fearful eyes. "I'm really sorry sir."
"Lucas, it's alright. Just tell me what it is." He checked his temper.
"Well it has to do with the cage sir. Matt had this idea about changing its frame to make it fall differently. He wanted you to come take a look at the plans so we can get started on it right away. If you like it of course."
Michael nodded. "Fine." Then he followed the lycan back into the weapons room.
Kendra watched as he disappeared behind the door. Her eyes flashed red as her anger rose.
"Disgusting display isn't it?" Flar came up from behind her, his voice purring like a cat.
"What do you want Flar?"
"Just to see how you were getting along. It appears as if Michael holds no more interest in you today than he did yesterday. Or the day before that."
"It's that fucking vampire bitch." She growled angrily. "It isn't bad enough that they run around and kill are kind, but now their taking our men as well."
"Michael isn't one of us."
"More so than she is."
"It's the position you like Kendra. Admit it."
Kendra now turned around to face the muscular lycan. "A man such as Michael doesn't yet understand the full extent of his power over the pack."
Flar sneered. "And you intend to show him I suppose."
"You could say that." She turned back around and snarled. "If I could just get that bloodsucker out of my way he would have no distractions."
Flar came closer to her and spoke cold next to her ear. "We should talk." He said calmly. "I think we might be able to help each other."
Kendra listened silently, and then turned to face him, teeth gleaming. "You have a deal."
* * *
Lily stared at the ceiling as she lay in bed, but her thoughts went beyond the concrete. Tried as she might she could not conjure the images that had played before her in the tunnel last night, but she knew what she saw. She closed her eyes, focusing. Her fingers mindlessly caressed the black jewel at her neck.
*We were at that tower last night. I'd been there before but why didn't I remember when I first got there?* Her mind was swimming with questions. She wasn't exactly sure what this meant. *Selene said she went there all the time. I remembered when Selene...* Lily eyes opened wide. "When she saved my life." The sound of her own voice frightened her. *It was just like that night, but that would mean...* "Shit." She mumbled into the darkness. She didn't want to think about what it would mean. She couldn't be sure if this was all real or not. Maybe her mind was playing tricks on her. *But it felt real. I remember her.*
Before her mind could take its train of thought any further Selene burst through the door.
"Back so soon?" Lily muttered quietly.
Selene didn't say anything, but walked into the bathroom and turned on the shower. She came back out to retrieve a set of clothes from a pack that sat on the floor.
"Did you get a chance to talk with Michael?" Lily sat up in bed, trying to engage her instructor.
"He was busy. Now go to sleep."
"He didn't look busy when I left."
"Go to sleep Lily." Selene's tone left no room for argument. Something had royally pissed her off.
*Fine.* Lily thought to herself. She was tired of trying to help. *Fuck it.* She laid her head upon her pillow and washed her mind of all thoughts but those of her brother. In minutes she was sound asleep.
---------
He breathed in the musk of the damp air. The room was unearthly quiet except for a drip, drip, drip that echoed about the tunnels. Even from his hiding place, the shafts of the bathroom ceiling, he could hear the water. Strangely enough it had soothed him while he waited, but that time had come to an end. Night was approaching, and he had a mission to do. Effortlessly, he swung down from the shafts and landed silently on the bathroom floor. Without a sound he moved to the door, opened it and emerged into the room that held his target.
He glanced to his left and saw the sleeping vampiress. He shook his head. *I'm sorry my lady, but orders are orders. I sincerely hope you stay asleep.* He coaxed her with his mind, and then turned his eyes to the bed. In a silent flash he was beside the bed and the girl that slept within it. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a small white cloth and placed it over her face. Her eyes snapped open; she inhaled deeply, and dropped her head back down to the pillow. *That's a girl.* He bent down, threw her over his shoulder, and headed back towards the bathroom.
*Oops!* He mentally chastised himself. *I almost forgot.* He removed a piece of paper from his pocket and placed it on the arm of the couch the vampire rested on. Then went back to hiding in the shafts, girl in tow. Once he was sure they couldn't be seen, he picked up a broken piece of cement and chucked it at the bathroom door, making a loud clang.
Selene grabbed her gun from beneath her pillow and aimed it straight at the bathroom door. She kept her eyes trained on the direction the sound had come from, but nothing happened. Finally letting herself breath she caught a flash of white as it floated down to her feet. Taking another look around she knelt to pick it up. It was a letter addressed to her.
My Dearest Selene,
I regret to inform you that the key to the success of your little operation is now in my custody. Your presence is requested at the 22nd safe house at 8:00. Come alone. There will be people watching you, and if your lycan half-breed follows you both of them will be shot on sight. I hope I've made myself clear.
It was left unsigned. Selene glanced frantically towards the bed. The blankets were ruffled, but there was no body. "Fuck." She swore loudly. She stormed over to her desk, opened the top drawer, and grabbed a second gun. She checked the ammunition and slammed the clip back into the gun. "Goddamn bullshit." She swore again while grabbing her trench coat and throwing it over her shoulders. She let the door slam shut as she hastily left her quarters.
The man hiding in the bathroom peeked his head out as he heard the door clang shut. He waited a few moments, and hauled the girl out into the room. He held her to the front of him and wrapped the folds of his coat around her. Then, he opened the door and casually strolled into the underground tunnels. He waddled down the hall and ducked behind a dark corner. He let the girl fall to the ground and knelt to pry open the manhole. Lifting her over his shoulder he jumped down. Once he had placed his captive on the ground he climbed back up to seal the hidden entrance and then was gone.
From the adjacent room Michael heard the door slam shut and threw himself out of bed. He peered through adjoining door to Selene's room, but there was no one there. Moving quickly he glanced out the main door and saw Selene's billowing coat as she flew down the hall. *Where in the hell is she going?* She was heading in the opposite direction as the training room, and Lily was nowhere in sight. Running back to his room he grabbed his jacket and decided to follow her.
----------- Ok, so there it be. Next part will be up in three or four days, depending on when I can access the Internet. (I'm moving out right now, so things are tentative). Anyways, please let me know what you think. And thanks for reading.
Adalon Ithilriel: LOL! Well my Flar fan, he was in this chapter a bit, but don't worry you'll be seeing more of him soon. And what do you mean your plot twists never go right...Hello! Does Rene ring a bell? That was an awesome shock! But thank you for the complement. I'm glad it went off well. As far as what Lily is remembering, I'm sorry to say you won't know till the very end...err...well you might be able to guess but... ah you'll just see! Thanks for the review as always. You're awesome.
pantheraleo: Your reviews almost bring tears to my eyes they are so kind! Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review. Hee hee, sorry if I confused you about Tyran. That was my bad, but I'm not sure if Lily will be as accepting. Right now she's just got fragments and confusion, but once she's out from under Selene's wing, and in and amongst vampires, who knows what she'll discover! ;) And I wasn't worried about the grammar; I actually enjoy people editing my stuff. I mean, my stories are like my babies so the better I can make them, the happier I am. Thanks you so much for your reviews though. I'm flattered.
The Lady Mage: Hello there girlie...how's Second Chances coming? *wink, wink* Thanks for reviewing. Sorry to hear your sick, me too, but since that was a week ago hope your feeling better! Thanks again.
Morrgaine : Your back! I was almost worried there for a second. ;) Just kidding. I'm glad that your enjoying the Selene/Lily bonding stuff. It's important for the ending, but I was a bit worried how people would take it. Not your typical underworld stuff. I added a bit more Selene/Michael this chapter. Thanks to your suggestion, I actually developed a whole new character. Ha ha, like I needed one, but she makes things a bit more interesting. So thanks for the idea! And as always, thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Redd: *smiles* Glad my since of humor isn't lost on everyone. Thanks for the review...but you need time out from your editor? Hum...Editors are scary...I know mine is! Thanks again for the support.
vampirehuntr00: You are awesome for managing to plow through this entire thing so far. I can't thank you enough for doing that. Makes me happy. I have every intention of checking out Eternal Life as soon as I get some time. I keep hearing a lot about Charli and what an awesome character she is. I'll look forward to that. ;) Thanks again for reviewing.
VampyricAngel: Yay! Someone liked the bungee jump! Ha ha, that was actually inspired by a strange talk I had with a random friend at school. Amazing where inspiration pops up. Thanks for the review and your kind words. I'm glad you like, and don't worry I will hiss...LOUDLY if I need some help. Thank you for offering. :)
Merion: LOL...I'll be sure to do that dear, but as soon as I'm done with this, I need to send your fic back to you! Thanks for the review!