Author's Notes: Guys, I am SO sorry for having you wait so long! There's not much of an excuse other than life and my summer's writer's block. Meh. I know where this is all going but it can be hard to muster up the ambition to put it to paper. To prevent such a drastic time lapse again, chapters may be shorter, like this one. Let me know what you think, please! If you prefer lengthy chapters with a wait, I can do that. If you don't mind smaller chapters more frequently, I can do that. Lemme' know!

Love or Blood

Chapter Seventy-four: The West Weald Inn

xxxx

Strange desperation. Caught. An icy chill sent straight through his long-dead heart. Panic followed.

Vicente Valtieri woke upon his slab, abrupt sensations assaulting his entire form. It took him a moment to recover from the initial confusion, then a moment more to realize that the emotions were not his own. The elder vampire righted himself on the stone, swiftly ascertaining the onslaughts true bearer. None other than his Brother, Lucien Lachance.

Anger, cruel and positively wicked. The urge to hurt, belittle, destroy and harm...Then surprise. Sorrow. Pain. Betrayal.

Leaping from the stone in a flurry of dread and panic, Vicente moved quickly to his belongings and dressed. He packed light and fast, unable to even leave a farewell note to his Siblings as he did so. No, for he was in too desperate of a hurry. Abigale Lynn had received his letter, no doubt, and confronted his Speaker. Now all was going poorly, as the vampire had expected it would. Of course, Vicente feared for Abigale Lynn, but he believed his Brother, no matter how depraved or angered, would leave the girl alive. After all, the Eliminator knew all too well of Speaker Lachance's great and terrible love for the young girl. If nothing else, she would be alive.

The 'betrayal' caused a heated debate within his Speaker's mind. His thoughts carried on and echoed through magical tethers, reaching Vicente in a whisper. Lucien question himself and the proper course to take. He questioned his affection to Abigale Lynn and swore on the Night Mother that he would spill the blood of another, in the Matron's name to absolve the sheer insolence of the Dibellan. He prayed for forgiveness, knowing that he would spare his lover the true extent of his wrath, despite feeling that she was fully deserving of absolute woe. All this significantly quickened the pace in Vicente's step, instilling him with fear and tantamount doubt.

Soon his hood was pulled low over his brow as the vampire raced to the stables. He secured his mount, trying to puzzle where Lucien Lachance and Abigale Lynn were, only to feel a torturous confrontation. He felt his Brother's heart race, blood pumping through his veins at an alarming rate. A chase ensued...Then, Lucien satiated his desire for violence and gore. On whom, the vampire knew not. Vicente felt the Speaker's rush of release and the abating of some tension, followed by a brief euphoria - a telltale sign indeed that his Brother had just cut down another.

Vicente faltered, feeling fear, trying to glean more from the obscure snippets of magic. He worried deeply but managed to collect himself before setting off at a gallop.

As he left County Cheydinhall, the conflict continued and progressed. His Brother's feelings became more desperate and confused. Vicente almost stopped his horse out of pure confusion once bombarded with pleasure and violence. It was soon harrowingly clear what his Speaker was doing, and it caused the vampire's fangs to unleash, and his knuckles to turn stark-white on the reigns of his mount.

Vicente realized, through Lucien's passion and overall misguided self, that despite the terrible actions he was committing, Abigale Lynn was 'safe'. Safe, in the sense that she would survive his Speaker's atrocities. Lucien Lachance, even while in the acts of cruelty, would keep her heart beating. It was no small blessing in light of the situation. However, further turmoil sparked, crackling through the assassin to his undead Brother like lightning. All was so conflicting and heated that the Eliminator knew not where to steer his horse. He simply went south, near thwarted in his attempts to track his Sibling and the Dibellan.

Eventually, while galloping several miles from Lake Poppad's shore, an entirely new feeling washed over him. It lapped like the soft, subtle waves in the distance. A sort of deceptive calming overtook the assassin. A blatantly false acquiesce that, although did not please Lachance, relaxed his body and worked his mind. Trickery rooted, a foul thing...

There were only so many things Lucien Lachance would reluctantly 'agree' to do for Abigale Lynn, and Abigale Lynn had very few desires. This helped the elder vampire to narrow down the Speaker's next location. After everything she had learned, no doubt the young woman was itching to return to Skingrad now...

Perhaps it is time. Vicente mused as he steered his mount to the West. He hoped all parties involved were ready to unite. He also wondered what Lucien Lachance had planned, and it worried him deeply. He also wondered how both the Count and Abigale Lynn would react to one another. That worried him as well. Vicente would be there. Whether to intervene with the Count's rage or Lucien's trickery, he would be there for his friend and his Brother...and their shared lover. Yes, he would be there for Abigale Lynn. She tended to need someone, and should she be cast out from Skingrad or broken by Lachance, Vicente would be there. He would aid and comfort her.

He would.

xxxx

Upon the hilltop, still perched oddly on Shadowmere, I stared down the long winding road. What I beheld made my breath hitch. Spirals of stone, thick walls and bountiful fields and vineyards all came into view, obscured only slightly by the thick fog that swirled about them. Looking upon the city of Skingrad felt so very surreal. I wanted to be elated, happy with the fact that I had made my decision and followed it through. However, instead, I was tense and uncertain. My mood felt much like the weather, almost confused, as the county itself was veiled in a cool mist, which made the warm ground billow whisps of fog. Neither the land nor I knew how to react.

Tearing my eyes from the road, I briefly watched the assassin's back, swallowing thickly as I did so. I worried greatly about how we would part. After what had transpired early, his threat still hanging heavily over me, I knew not how to react. All I knew was what I felt, and that was the dire need to be away from him. Lucien Lachance was dangerous and a defensive liar. I did not want to learn how else he would react in attempts to defend himself. I did not doubt his violence, and so needed to be away.

I took in all and sampled the idea of bursting into a run once we drew nearer to the stables. I decided against such a thing, not wanting to act so brashly. Should I run, the assassin could end all with a flick of his wrist, my progression to the Count would be ruined...

The Count.

I turned to Castle Skingrad, ever large and imposing on its high perch, towering over the land, it's tower's peak obscured by the grey clouds and mist. My throat tightened at the unknown and my own crazed wanting. I wondered if the Count was watching me somehow; cloaked along his veranda, seething or indifferent. However, I preferred to imagine him aloof and asleep. I hoped it would be a dreamless slumber, warm and peaceful too.

"We will round the city and enter through the West Gate." Lucien Lachance declared, his tone reserved yet still managing to startle me greatly. "And once we do dismount, Sithis help you, should you try to run." I let out an uneasy breath, swallowing down any rebuttal while feeling terribly on the spot for having considered such a thing not too long before the assassin's threat. "There is an Inn beyond the entrance that my Family frequents. We shall go there while I make all the necessary arrangments for your return."

Chewing my lip and swallowing my absolute distaste for the man I held, I garnered the courage to speak, purely out of interest for my own wellbeing. "What arrangements are required?"

"The compromising kind." He supplied, and I could not decern whether he was being cryptic or sarcastic. "All will go as planned, should you act accordingly and permit it to do so. Appearing anything but natural very well may arouse suspicion and halt your progress. Behave as you once did towards me." Reluctantly, I did as suggested and attempted to drop a measure of my contempt for the man I was still forced to hold.

Not long after, we blessedly dismounted Shadowmere. Lucien paid a tidy sum to have her 'tended' and I had to wonder if he and the stablehand were familiars, as his tone was more than a touch enigmatic, and the man took the reigns and led the mare to the back of the barn. I was grateful when she was fully out of sight, as I was still sore from her earlier tantrum.

As we entered the city, I was again left unsure of how to act. Beautiful, grand Skingrad was before me, the Count's Castle not far from it. I wanted to go to him and be away from Lucien, but I feared the unknown. The Dark Brotherhood Speaker was not one to be trifled with. Still, I did not want to be alone with him in seclusion. I knew, if the assassin wished it, I could have been easily 'removed' while on the road. However, he was still attempting to gain my affection then. Now, I did not think he felt the same. I refused him one too many times. Even Lucien Lachance had a breaking point, it seemed.

The citizens bustled past us, trying their best to avoid the strengthening cold drizzle. Many guards were on duty, and I took note of several of their positions as we walked. The assassin shrouded me in his cloak, despite me being dressed well enough for my tastes. I supposed the gesture was done to keep up appearances...or was simply a habit that Lucien would soon have to break.

Our shoes hit wet cobblestone until we finally approached the dampened floorboards of the Inn. Upon entry, I turned my gaze to the crackling hearth, the smell of sweet smoke filling my nostrils. The establishment was very luxurious. Darkened windows stained with elaborate floral patterns, their panes dark and embossed all seemed to glimmer in the firelight. The rest of the interior was equally lovely - richly colored linens hung leisurely on ornately carved tables, fine silverware sat awaiting use, potted plants in painted vases were a flourishing green and all emaculated trimmed.

Having had my head down while entering the city, due to the weather, I found myself in awe of the grandeur that was Skingrad. Something as simple as an Inn became a work of art. From the land to its people, all were in far better states than anywhere else in the province. Even the most disgruntled of patrons warmed himself by the fire in soft leathers and velvet finery. I was reminded why I had stayed in Skingrad as a beggar. The city was enchantingly beautiful, even with its faults.

We did not linger long in the parlor, however. Soon the assassin marched us purposefully to the counter and purchased us a room, baths, and a hot meal. As we wound the ornate stairs to our room, I was again worrying my lip. I did not want to be alone with the Dark Brotherhood Speaker. I was so close to the Count now. I needed to get to the Castle. I knew not what 'preparations' needed to be done. Truthfully, I doubted any existed. Still, I would not run again...yet.

Lucien stopped at the door to our new accommodations and worked the key into the lock. He entered and began his usual fussing about, unbeknownst, for the moment, that I remained idle in the hallway. It did not take him long to realize my absence, and he turned fast, almost as if frightened.

Our gaze met and I swallowed hard at the look Lucien gave my form. The assassin wanted me to join him in the little room, no, he expected me to join him. My standing away, questioning his motives and promise irked him to no end, and he could no longer hide it, despite his efforts.

"And just what are you doing, my dear?" The assassin asked, a glittering predatory focus sharpening his gaze as the question rolled from his lips with honey sweetness. "I believe I was quite clear, earlier. Arrangments must be made. Your stalling will grant you no favors. Come here."

I wondered then, truly wondered, as I eyed the Dark Brotherhood Speaker in the quaint room, what Lucien Lachance's motive was for me, at present. He had told me once that he would not insult me with a 'sheepskin'. He would bear himself, his whole, terrible, self to me. But I knew him to be a liar. And now, despite his appearance - hood down, cloak and hair damp - still charmingly handsome, still genteel and debonair...I knew this was one of his greatest talents. To conceal himself utterly, to bewilder and fool. It was how he lured victims such as myself.

He was too calm. Too kind. Especially given the circumstance. Something was amiss. Whether or not he desired to do me great harm, I was unsure. Still, I had enough sense to remain away. I had no desire to discover any more of his truths. No desire to remain in his presence and worry. I was in Skingrad. I no longer needed him.

"You promised consequences for my refusal of your 'affection', Lucien. Do you not remember? Now you speak of preparations. We both know that I am foolish, but no longer am I this naive. I know you have something ill planned for me in there." I began, nodding towards the room's interior, emboldened by the bustling witnesses in the rooms below and around us. "Our precontracted time together has been spent.

"There is no ill will here... Truly, Abigale, If I wanted to kill you, it would have been done while on the road and away from prying eyes." He gave a humorless chuckle then, trying his best to mask the steel slipping into his tone. "This is perhaps the worst of places to kill someone, after all, if that puts your mind at ease. For you see, should I decide to hurt you, you would try to escape me. And when you flee I would come after you. You would run so very fast which would cause your heart to race...like little bird wings. And should I bring my blade across you then, you would bleed beautiful. Like rushing waters. But ah, a mess. A scene. A scandal. Hard to clean, harder to conceal. So you see? Foolish to hurt you...presently."

"Presently," I repeated, swallowing thickly. He was bullying me of course, a normally effective method to keep me on my best behavior. But his threats weren't empty now. He was unpredictable, despite the cool casualness he exuded. From the corner of my vision, I eyed the satchel that held the cure for the Count by the door. It was just out of my arms reach, but I had a mind to take it. "I have no intentions of staying any longer. I suppose a piece of me wishes that we could part on better terms."

"Abigale, what would I have to gain from hurting you now? My caring has not died as yours so obviously has. I only wish to implement the proper proceeders for your parting. However, you are deluded if you think some fantasy of a warm farewell will blind me. I have tried to be tender to you and it has failed. I won't be trying it again. You dare walk out of this building, I will follow."

I sighed, covertly moving forward some. "You cannot follow me everywhere, Lucien." I sighed, and in one fell swoop, the strap of the assassin's satchel was in my grasp, then over my shoulder. The Dark Brotherhood Speaker watched mutely as I stepped out of the room once more, his gaze falling to the satchel, eyeing it with contempt.

"No? Watch me, my dear." Lucien then walked briskly to where I stood. He made a move, perhaps to grab, perhaps to frighten, but as he did so, laughter erupted down the corridor as a small party of patrons climbed the stairs.

It all happened so quickly then, as though time itself sped up to my aid. I whispered a goodbye, ignored the tightening in my chest as I tore my gaze from Lucien's ever-black eyes, and maneuvered myself down the hall as the new patrons went to their rooms to shake off the rain. My feet moved fast, I mumbled apologies, bumped into several bystanders as I glanced down into the pack. While I moved, I eyed the bottles of the cure for the Count. The potions seemed to sparkle, even as I stepped out and back into the grey streets. I ignored the assassin's possessions and gave one more look to the inn as I moved quickly down the road. Despite it quickly receding, it was not long before I saw Lucien. He was still cloaked, looking furious, his eyes finding me with striking precision.

Unfortunately, for Lucien Lachance, I had known he would follow. We played this game before.

Having just entered the city only a short time ago, I knew just where many guards were on patrol. To my luck, a small group had gathered beneath an arch and spoke to each other idly. I went to them with purpose, hood up, the bravest face I could muster worn. I needed to be brave. I needed to see the Count...cowering could be done afterward.

"Excuse me?" I called, my arm waving, brisk walk turning into a confident little sprint, a smile plastered on my face. "I am so sorry to trouble you, but I am in need of some assistance." All three armed men turned to me, attention effectively grabbed.

"Everything alright, ma'am?" The nearest, a tall Redguard asked. I nodded, my time with the assassin paying off as a story formed with baffling quickness in my mind.

"Oh, y-yes, please! I am on contract with the Mages Guild. The Arcane University, to be more precise. Do you know of it? A-anyway, I have business with the Stewardess, Hal-Liurz of Castle Skingrad. But I confess...I have never been to Skingrad and feel rather foolish wandering about so. I cannot find the Castle and I cannot be late. May I have an escort, please? It is of the utmost urgency."

"Mages Guild type, huh?" One interrupted, shouldering his way past the soldier I had been speaking to. "If your kind is so smart, why can't you puzzle your way through something as simple as a city?" Unfortunately, I knew not how to respond to this man. I only stared, feeling desperately frightened over the possibility of being turned away. With the assassin watching from Gods knew where I would be 'hunted' swiftly, should I be alone. Luckily, for me, the Redguard waved off his comrade's remark and stepped to me.

"Don't mind him, it's been a long day. No one is content when standing in the rain for hours on end. But I will be happy to give you an escort ma'am. We help people up to the Castle more often than you think. Most folks don't feel safe so close to the woods. Especially on such a dark day." I felt lifted in an instant, permitting the smile of pure relief to overtake my features.

"T-thank you so very much. I appreciate this more than you know."

"Huh, mind if I join, Idran? 'Bout time to switch shifts and my feet are killing me. Think I'll change boots in the barracks." The third guard grumbled, pushing off from the wall he had been leaning against. I was tempted to thank him too but thought better of it. These men did not know I had a murderer at my back, gushing gratitude could make them suspicious. I needed more than one soldier to stave off Lucien Lachance. I still worried that I was only to be escorted by two - as I did not doubt the assassin's ability to take them both down - and having a third would have been ideal. But, there were witnesses now, however. Other men switching their posts. We were bound to see more guards and people. I was as safe as I could be.

The opposing soldier simply sniffed angrily and turned his attention back to the citizens of Skingrad as the other two men and I began to make our way to the City Gates. I made sure to stay wedged between the two for safety. Unfortunately, the precarious walking arrangement I forced caused me to accidentally bump into the young Redguard on several occasions. The poor man blushed as terribly as me, and the tint to his cheeks could be seen even beneath his helm. He gave me a nervous smile that I returned.

Perhaps he thought I found him handsome - he was. Regrettably, for the man, my attention was more set on his back than his eyes when I looked his way. Should someone approach, I wanted to warn him.

xxxx

We trudged up the muddy hillside without further incident. I was soon walking over the bridge with the two men. My heart stilling as I approached Castle Skingrad. once more. I was finally home.

Author's Notes: YUS. God, I was really stuck on this one for so long. Happy it's finally DONE. Please, let me know what you think! Sorry for the poor quality and overall 'jumbled' feel. I've been writing this in segments on and off for...months?...heh...