The Captive Audience {Corbin/Marissa}

[Marissa Skye ☀]

"Ow, Ow, Ow, Ow, OWWWWWWW!" came a very put out cry as three men stalked through the fort dragging another figure between them. The said figure frantically tired to keep up with the pace the men were keeping even as the burlap bag over its top half caused it to trip and fall several times. The curses and oaths that fell upon the gathered crowd wished them all to perdition and beyond... Not that any of the observers seemed to care.

Reaching the center of the encampment, the trio thrust their prize forward and watched as the slender figure sprawled in a hapless heap before their leader. Reaching down, one grabbed the top of the sack and pulled it from the face of their captive. Immediately, a pretty blond head appeared with great big brown eyes that were currently flashing with suppressed ire. Ire that most of the time was firmly banked behind a lady like exterior but now was on the verge of burning the three idiots to the ground.

Without thought, the captive scowled and jumped to her feet. With a fierce growl, she went after the nearest villian and made a quick hand movement that froze the man in place before bringing her knee up to meet his family jewels.Whirling on her heel, she then smacked the next closest villain right in the stomach with a small ward symbol and was about to bloody his nose when she tripped on an already broken heel and sprawled on the ground again.

"BY ALL THE FIRES OF ABBADON!" she swore as she kicked off the shoe and threw it at the stunned culprit instead. "JUST WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?? DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW MUCH THOSE SHOES COST ME? I HOPE YOU"VE GOT A DEEP SAVINGS ACCOUNT CAUSE YOU OWE ME, YOU OVERGROWN OAF! I'm going to make you RUE the day you ever messed with ME, buddy! JUST SEE IF I DON"T!"

Grumbling madly, the young woman glared looks of death at his accomplishes.

"What in TINKS GARDEN is the world coming too when a girl can't even go SHOPPING without being accosted by a bunch of stinky criminals? Don't you men know what a shower or a TOOTHBRUSH is? Or a comb for that matter? If you have to be bad.. At least have some pride and try to look good doing it would you? Even bad guys should have some standards, you know! If you need a fashion advisor, i'd be more than happy to tell you that soiled clothing went out CENTURIES ago... but maybe that is why your kidnapping women? Cause you can't get one any other way?"

Then, seeming to come aware of the observers around her, the young woman froze in the act of lecturing the idiots who has snatched her off the streets of New Orleans. With eyebrows shooting upwards, she looked to the side and then pushed a lock of blond hair out of her face as her gaze focused on a set of heavy mens boots directly in front of her.

Swallowing hard, Marissa Abigail Skye pushed herself to her feet and let her eyes travel up a figure that was definitely all man... oh hubba hubba, was it... over long, well developed legs, powerful hips, and a chest that just made her want to measure it with her tongue just to see if it was really as wide as the leather clothing suggested. Unfortunately, all that wonderful warmth died as soon as she meet the glacial gaze of the "Man in Charge".

"Um.... Hello?" she said, trying for a tone of lightness even as she swallowed hard. "Might you be the person responsible for this little mistake? I'm afraid that you have the wrong girl..... for whatever ... reasons... you might have wanted to snatch a completely innocent woman off a busy street in broad daylight..I'm sure it was an innocent mistake so... I promise that if you justtake me back.... I won't press charges..Better yet, how about I just take myself back? I wouldn't want to bother you.. I"m sure your a busy man....."

Swallowing hard when this didn't seem to get any response, she continued.

"Unless of course you've been smitten from afar with my beauty and you've been driven mad by your love for me? NO?? Damn.. to bad.. cause I could really have gotten used to being a pampered queen of the wilderness... "

Realizing she was babbling, Marissa bit her tongue and peeked out from underneath her long lashes to see how Mr. I"M SO BADASS I MAKE WOMEN STAMMER was taking her explainions. One look and Miss Marissa Abigail Skye did the only other thing she could think to do.

SHE RAN.

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Define your meaning of war
To me it's what we do when we're bored
I feel the heat comin' off of the blacktop
And it makes me want it more
Because I'm hyped up out of control
If it's a fight, I'm ready to go
I wouldn't put my money on the other guy
If you know what I know that I know



Reclining on a seat of sun warmed stone, Corbin frowned down at the various documents scattered around his feet. Leave it to turned humans to think like humans, he thought with an inner growl, glaring down at the fuzzy photographs featuring various familiar faces. It had been almost two weeks since Frederick’s failed attempt to kill the famed Celt, and he’d used the time to collect information on all who were present during the battle.

So close, they had been so damned close that time. He’d smelled the shifter’s blood on his men’s dirty claws, and from the lack of movement in the cabin for a few days afterward, he had been impressively wounded. But the wolf had sentries, had magicks that he had yet to understand and as such, another attack was out of the question.

“The patrols are back, m’lord,” His second informed him, his voice cutting through his current thoughts. They would probably return with more of these useful photographs and look as if they’d handed him gold bullion. Inwardly rolling his eyes, he kept his eyes on the pictures, hoping that he’d be informed of something more than what the Celt’s woman’s hair color was.

A scent wafted in through the fort’s decaying windows, making him pause. It was floral, sweet; out of place in the musky woods…and, in the end, his only warning that a mini-typhoon was about to sweep through his humble abode. A loud, unfamiliar voice cut through the comfortable quiet of the room, and an irritated frown appeared on the shifter’s face. As four guards escorting a writhing woman into the room, her yowling becoming even louder with the close proximity, irritation turned to pure disgust.

Human. The scent was almost as powerful as the sweet smell she bore, and it caused his lips to curl. Only a means to an end, those irritating little bags of flesh; just more cannon fodder for his plan to rule the lands as his forefathers had. And, from what he could tell as the strange woman proceeded to rant about smelly warriors and some place called ‘Tink’s Garden,’ this one was no different.

Even if she did have a face like Reubin’s angel. A human beauty; who would have imagined it possible?

Silently, Corbin regarded the prisoner at his feet with a bland expression on his face, only the barest traces of irritation about his mouth and brows. Her voice, good God, her voice was like knives to his brain, with all of the screeching and babbling! Did the woman ever fall silent? Something akin to amusement flickered in his eyes as he caught her hesitation, the sudden flare of heat in her eyes as she looked at his reclining form. Mmm, he couldn’t help but wonder if she would be so explosive in his bed, flush and lying spread out on his furs like a pale, pink little buffet for him to enjoy.

…And only him to enjoy. Normally, his men would have understood that fact. But as the stupid human turned to run, every pair of eyes in the entire damn room lit up with predatory intent, message heard loud and clear:

‘PREY.’

The room had been filled with a mixture of Were’s and shifters, some in animal form and others moving around in various duties with little or nothing on. Corbin was no better; his chest was bare, save for the telltale coat made of the skins of his enemies draped around his shoulders like a cloak and a pair of leather pants that hugged his form comfortably. The garments that the humans of the time liked to wear were cumbersome and uncomfortable, he’d come to realize. One lost at least two minutes to stripping or tearing thick fabric into pieces before a change; two minutes that could mean life or death to a warring soul such as himself.

In a flash, most of the already shifted wolves were on their paws and starting after the fleeing human, and the guards who had dragged her in were in close pursuit. With a martyred sigh and a glance at the Heavens, the pack leader used agility born of years of practice and caught the woman before she could make it to the door. Or get eaten by one of the sentries outside.

Hand snapping out, he closed her wrist in an iron grip, hauling her back until she smacked up against his side and chest. A mixture of wolves, cats, jackals and humans crowded around them, lost in bloodlust and the need to feed, all eyes on the woman at his side.

Really now, as if he’d allow them to kill her before he found out why she’d been brought to his chamber in the first place. Stupid, worthless Were’s.

An inhuman snarl ripped through the room as the Muunokhoi bared his teeth at his pack, silently demanding that they back the fuck off. His incisors lengthened and the need to change, to fight, to meet the challenge before him was almost too much to bear. But, slowly and reluctantly, his men backed off, eyes cast downward and both heads and tails held in shows of submission.

“You all shame me,” He said finally, accented voice scratchy from suppressed growls. “Trying to kill our guest before she is introduced. But, for future reference, little one,” Glancing down at the human beside him, still restrained by a scarred, rough hand, he raised a brow. “Do not run from animals, if you do not want to be seen as prey.”

“If you please, m’lord,” One of the sentries previously escorting the woman into the fort came forward, holding his large form submissive before his leader. “We have brought the human woman to you, as you commanded.”

A frown pulled at Corbin’s lips as he glanced down at the woman again. “The human woman?”

“Yes, m’lord,” The sentry looked confused, eyes still on the ground. “The mate of the Celt. We caught her wandering around the foul smelling shop in town, and brought her to you.”

A pair of obsidian eyes flickered down at the pixie face beside him. His hand still gripped her wrist, body tensed as if expecting a blow, and a bit roughly, he propelled her forward until she stood before him. Sun kissed hair, enticing lips set into a stubborn line…goddamn blond hair…

“You stupid fools,” The shifter practically snarled, a mixture of amusement and anger taking up residence in his face. “This is not the Celt’s mate! She is a human…and an…intriguing one at that,”

He’d managed to notice the little flare of power she’d used to knock his man back, before she turned herself into the fleeing hare. Taking a step closer to her, he took a deep breath, taking in her scent until his head was practically buzzing with it.

“And now the question is,” He purred, lips curling in a cruel imitation of a smile. “What shall we do with her, now that she is here?”

[Marissa Skye ☀]

It was amazing the reactions a body could go through when it felt its survival was at stake. Fear was the first reaction but then it started to work through it to find any way out of the situation it could. Marissa had heard it called the fight or flight reflex somewhere but at the moment, all she knew was that the scary dude behind her looked as if he could eat her for lunch and ask for seconds. That was enough to send her body into that "Flight" response without a second thought.

Leaping away from Mr. Intense, the young witch slapped out wards as she raced for the door and prayed by all that was holy she could reach safety before her captors could figure out what the hell she was doing. Unfortunately for her, she hadn't planned on her new "friend's" ability to shift into superhuman animals or Mr. I'm Gonna Chew You Up and Spit You Back Outs supernatural speed.

One moment she was fleaing for the hills and the next a strong arm was lashing out to grab her own. The grip cause her to immediately still and her eyes flashed up to meet his gaze. What she saw there made her glance around and her immediate predicament hit home hard. What had seemed to be mere men were now slobbering animals all looking as if they wanted a taste of her flesh.

Holy hell, when the hell had THAT happened? Was that drool she was seeing a sign of canine distemper? She was definitely recommending a few of them see a vet for shots. All that foaming couldn't be couldn't be good for the health.... Some of them even looked as if they might have rabies. Then, her captors words about killing hit and she crab walked towards him as if to use him for a shield.

"Oh yes.. I'm all for the not killing thing....I promise that I'm no danger to all you people.. animals... um.. creatures..." she hiccuped out. "Just consider me as silent as a mouse about your tribe... group..organization...whatever it is you all have going here!"

When the man started to speak again, Marissa peeked out from behind him and eyed the others gathered. They were still eying her like fresh meat but her holder was obviously the man in charge and they were just as obviously afraid of him. Evidently, from what she could piece together, the men that had taken her had snatched the wrong woman and their failure was something not to be taken lightly.


Casting her doe eyes upwards at the gentleman holding her, the pretty blond heard his question and took in his cruel smile. For all that he'd phrased his inquiry politely, he was just as obviously a savage predator. That alone had the hair on her nap prickling but she refused to let him see her fear. Fear only encouraged a beast she'd always heard.

"Well, for starters, sir... You can release me.." she said with a bright smile, twisting her arm out from his hold and lifting her chin. "and then you can quit growling at me like some type of caveman. While all that dominate male ego is sexy as hell, I think we'd both be embarrassed if I jumped your bones right here in front of your boys and I'm a lady so I would never do that to begin with. By the way, Its really unfair to be strolling around with all that attractive skin showing....Especially when there are innocent women about.... Its pure temptation and completely distracting when it makes me want to see if your really as strong as all those muscles suggest....... Oh Lord.. and there you go again.. Distracting me to the point I can't even focus on making my point..... "

Sidling a few steps away, she watched him from the corner of her eye as she made a show of brushing off her red dress and then growled as she realized her favorite outfit was history. Raising her gaze, she flashed a nasty look at one of the kidnappers and hissed at him. Placing her hands on her hips, she took refuge from her fear in anger and pointed at the man.

"BAD DOGGIE!! SOMEONE SHOULD TEACH YOU SOME MANNERS!" she declared. "Don't you know its rude to snarl?"

Unfortunately, all that earned her was a hard snap and she squeaked before dashing behind Mr. Leader of the Pack.

"Eak.... Shsh... Talk about tempermental.... "

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Well, if there was one thing that he knew for certain about this human woman, it was that she was stark raving mad. When brought to his stronghold, most of her race trembled in fear. They begged for their lives, screamed in terror, fainted and revealed last evening’s dinner…

But this one? There was nothing! No begging, no screaming, no fear. As of yet, he was quite stuck between feelings of respect and irritation.

If anything, his reputation rode on being the baddest beast in the room. Without it, without intimidation, his entire Pack would be running rampant, becoming the animals that God had made them. If his plan was to work- if he was to indeed become Master of the lands of Man- this just was not acceptable. Already, his soldiers were looking at him with surprise on their faces. Surprise!

No, this would not do. It would not do at all.

As the fiery woman proceeded to rant at one of the weres that had brought her in, Corbin bit back a smile. She was either very crazy, or quite the brave little thing, wasn’t she? Her words seemed to fill the air, making it hazy, heavy, like a thick mist before the rain, and it didn’t take long for his patience to grow thin.

God, but the woman could talk. She really wasn’t scared of him, was she? Pity. With a voice like hers, he was sure that her screams would be as melodic as an angel’s.

With a growl, he was pulled back to reality as the poor Were being abused by the strange human suddenly leapt forward with a snap of his jaws. Without thinking, he took a step forward, snarl on his face, and backhanded the half-changed man so hard, he flew through one of the moss covered walls at the other end of the room.

Pity. The place was drafty enough, as it was.

“We are not to snap at guests,” Came the irritated growl at the surrounding Weres and shifters, who were quick to lower their eyes. With a yank on her arm until she was flush up against his side, he turned his irritation toward the woman. “And you, you will stop talking NOW. Your voice is like a cache of knives being thrown at my head. If you want to live, you will be silent!”

As he spoke, dark eyes flickered to a glowing amber, and his teeth slowly lengthened. The fingers holding her arm began to crack and bulge, joints aching to reform themselves into the digits of his natural form. It took a formidable amount of willpower, but he forced the beast back.

Turning his attention to the gathered animals and half-changed humans, he barked out a ‘leave us!’ and watched as the room cleared. As always, his Second lurked in the background, watchful and constant, as always.

Roughly, he propelled her toward the large stone boulder that served as his makeshift ‘throne.’ Something savage, the wolf perhaps, wanted him to take her to his chamber; to the bed of furs and canopy of stars, but he shoved it back with an inner laugh. It was to be business before pleasure, he informed the animal, and without caring of her discomfort, shoved her forward so that she fell to all fours on the ground before the stone.

Ah, definitely a position that he could appreciate, he couldn’t help but notice as he reclined on the flat rock. With a whirl, he flicked out the coat of furs and sat on the edge, hands on his knees and mouth set in a regal line.

“What is your name, human?” He asked, the feral glint still in his eyes. “And let me make myself clear, just in case you misunderstood my intentions before: you are a prisoner and a guest. This means that I will not kill you, but only if you please me.” His lip curled as he ran his gaze over the lovely curves of her body. “Tell me your name, and how you managed to throw my men halfway across the room.”

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Marissa wanted to resist. She really, truly did. Unfortunately, the tight grip and snarly voice of the man holding her made her chicken out. One moment she was standing.. oh, all right.. HIDING behind him and the next.. She was being hauled along behind him as her eyes remained glued to thing that her captor had just bitch slapped across the room. The power that blow had dealt would have snapped her own pathetically human body and she damned well knew it.

How was it she always found herself in these predicaments? Oh yeah, because trouble seemed to dog her heels at every turn and if it wasn't' for bad luck, she wouldn't have any luck at all. Wasn't it just her luck that she'd arrived in New Orleans to deliver a package to some old bookstore and ended up being kidnapped by something out of a bad reject horror movie. Any minute now, she kept waiting for some idiot to jump out the the stone work and holler, "SMILE! YOUR ON CANDID CAMERA." Unfortunately, it was looking less and less like that was going to happen.

Suddenly, the grip on her arm was released and she was shoved unceremoniously to the ground in front of a huge.. ROCK? Blinking up at her captor from hands and knees, Marrissa reached up and pushed a long lock of blond hair back from her delicate features and wrinkled her nose. He looked like some ancient sort of barbarian observing a peasant and that just pissed her off.

Vaguely, she heard him saying something but she took her time in answering as she pushed herself to her feet and dusted off her now ruined dress. That truly made her mad and her eyes fairly shot sparks at him when she looked back and lifted her chin in defiance. That defiance left her in a squeak though as she registered the word "kill" again.

"Um.. Kill? I don't like that word..Its so... I don't know... Unhealthy sounding.." she stammered, looking around for escape and then frowning. "My name is Marissa Skye...My friends call me Rissa but you can call me Ms. Skye."

Backing away a few steps, she eyed the distance between her and the man and then glanced at the floor. Pretending to shuffle her feet, she drew a crude circle in the dirt and continued to talk as she worked her magic.

"As far as what I did... What makes you think I did anything?" she asked, blinking at him innocently before reaching into the beyond and tapping into a lay-line of energy that could be found anywhere on earth. As she did so, she eyed him again and felt the power ripple through her before she tapped the circle with a foot and a brilliant bubble formed around her with protective magic.

"OH.. you mean this?? Its called magic and you've picked the wrong witch to mess with, mister!" she declared with an impish grin that almost made her seem fae in nature. "Think your the only one around here capable of things? I could show you things that would knock you on your cute butt."

OK, so maybe it was a false sense of security but it was at least a barrier between him and her. The whole "kill' thing really wasn't her idea of a good time and she suspected that this man wouldn't respect anything but a show of power in her own right.

"er.. or maybe not seeing how you just knocked a full grown.. over grown to be exact... beast across the room but... I'm not about to just let you do away with me so get that out of your brain this very instant!"

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Corbin

'Ms. Skye...' Well, those were definitely rolling heavenward a lot as she raised those hackles at him, so he supposed the name fit very well. And Marissa...silently, Corbin tested out the name as he watched the woman, obviously trying so hard to stay calm in the face of her current predicament. Marissa, yes, it did suit her. A modern name for a modern day Amazon and he did enjoy the taste of it in his mouth. Oh yes, if nothing else, the woman was going to be quite entertaining. Until he got bored of her, that is.

Humans really did only have a few weeks, tops, to keep his interest in tow. First came the fear, then the anger, then the begging for their lives, once they realized that the decaying fortress would be the last sight they would ever see. It became so monotonous over the years that he'd had to go to such lengths as to commandeer a room solely to be used as his torture chamber. In the old days, he could have bitten the sorry little piece of flesh and listened to her scream as the virus took hold...but even THAT was beginning to tire him, after making his army.

And so, he had to revert to these...trivial matters. Talking to his prey, taunting them and frightening them, as if he were a moving picture director with those idiotic versions of his people. Because EVERYONE had watched that stupid 'Werewolf in London,' the mysticism was just...tainted, nowadays. God, he did miss when peasants were peasants, and beings like him ruled the sleeping hours. For one thing, there was more of that delicious fear...and for another; one did not find themselves being ranted at by a slip of a girl. Just one swipe of his hand, and he'd have her head displayed in one of the fortress' remaining windows...but did she understand that? Did she APPRECIATE how easy it would be to snuff that insignificant life? Of course not.

He really did hate this place with all of his being. Ah, to own a time machine.

A time machine that would allow him to see what happened next in advance. The first true show of emotion other than irritation flickered across his face, as he registered the field of energy now surrounding her. A witch! Damn, he should have smelled it on her! With a snarl, shock turned back into anger, and the shifter was pounding against the little force field before she was finished talking. How dare she, his prisoner, try to protect herself!

“Try it, human," He snarled, slamming his fist against the shield. "And you'll be missing one of those pretty little arms! What is your plan now, little witch? Stand there until you grow old and grey? I wonder how long you can hold that circle up. I pray that it's long, because I'm half in the mood to kill you where you stand!"

The last words were punctuated by a few more slams against the invisible wall. Every punch caused a ripple to course through his arm, and after the last hit, he pulled back with a curse. Blood ran freely down his fingers and he glared down at a pair of crushed knuckles. He ignored the pain, knowing that the bones would reconnect quicker than a normal person's, and instead put all of his attention back to keeping his calm. The urge to shift was so strong now, that it was almost painful. He waved away his second when the Were came hurrying forward, and turned his attention back to his captive.

It was like a switch had been thrown, as his attention went back to that pretty face. At one moment, he was livid and now, with the sharp burn of splintered bone in his hand reminding him of his love of diplomacy, his face was back to its passive mask.

"A witch," He said after a moment, circling the protective field. He ran his broken hand along it, before pulling his hand back to lick at the blood staining his skin. "How interesting. I haven't met one of your kind since the Inquisition. I apologize for before; my...emotions got the better of me. I’m Corbin, leader of the largest army of Weres and shifters that this world has ever known. Tell me, my dear...what were you doing so close to the Voodoo woman's home?"

Marissa

OK, the temper tantrum that followed her little show of defiance was terrifying. Spine tingling, pee your pants in fear as you scream for your mama kind of terrifying. With eyes wide with horror, she watched the man... beast... animal... whatever he was rain down fury upon her succor little shell and swallowed hard. This was no ordinary criminal that had snatched her off the streets of the French Quarter.

The threats that he hissed at her made her want to curl up on a ball and hide but Rissa hadn't faced down a monster of a murdering brother in the past without walking away with a few instincts of her own. Forcing her face to remain calm, she shoved her panic down deep in her soul and simply watched until he brought himself under control. That, however, made her even more uneasy as he stalked a circle around her protection field. He seemed to be looking for a weakness and she couldn't help the little quake to her voice when she finally found her voice.

"My magic poses no threat to you. The only reason I hold it is so that you can't do the very thing you threaten to do." she said softly, gazing at him with glimmering eyes. "By your own insistence, you have no use for me. Would you have me be a pitiful creature that begs and screams for pity when you have none? If that is your desire, you will simply have to kill me for I am a doormat for no one. Others have tried to terrifying me before and while you may succeed... It will not stop me from doing whatever I have to in order to survive."

Turning with him, the young woman kept him in her sights even as she contemplated her next words.

"I was simply curious about some items in the window of the shop. I stop there briefly and was debating going inside only to find it was locked up. Your goons grabbed me as I turned to leave. Unfortunately, the first thing they did was stuff my head in a bag and bind my hands so I was unable to give them the proper welcome their actions deserved. That is something I will remedy next time."

Growing tired of all the spinning and walking, Marissa suddenly plopped down on her butt and stared up at him from the dusty ground. She looked like an enchanting if bedraggled imp as she crossed her legs underneath her and looked around the room he'd brought her into. A frown stole over her features as she eyed the second in command and hissed when he sneered at her.

"Please tell your guard dog to back off or I won't be held responsible for what I do to him. He’s beginning to annoy me."
As if to punctuate her words, she narrowed her eyes and flexed her fingers and the beast in question howled as his fur was singed.
Turning her attention back to Corbin, she simply sighed and shrugged before putting her chin in the palm of her hand.
"and.. I would say it’s really nice to meet you but... My mama told me not to lie so I think I'll just have to say that as much as I appreciate your snarly self... I'd really REALLY like to get back to reality now..."

Corbin

Well, well, well. The emotion that flickered through the sadistic wolf's eyes could only be described as respectful, as he took in her words. There was no screaming- which he did regret, but easily accepted- no fear, no begging...but bravery. What an interesting little human, that she could look into the Devil's eyes and keep a steady voice. It was almost mesmerizing in its unfamiliarity; this sense of calm that she radiated. True, there was that waver in her voice that was clearly and underlying nervousness...but all in all, she was dealing with this entire situation with the coolness of a veteran soldier.


Or a Queen. Ah, now there was an image to set his blood churning through his veins. She did have the curves of a Royal, and the way that she looked down her nose at him, insulted him by implying that she wasn't pleased to meet him! God, it was enough to make the tense atmosphere erupt with the rumbled, rusty sounds of his amused laughter. His second, previously yelping and patting himself down, as if to put out an invisible fire, froze in mid-motion, staring wide eyed at his Master. It was obvious that such shows of emotion were few and far between, and with a shocked expression on his face, the were could only stand there, staring slack jawed and wide eyed.


The shifter, ignorant to the other man's surprise, continued to circle the witch. Her words were formal, as if matching his own, and his respect seemed to increase a notch. Oh, if she would only lower the shields and put those magical fingers at her sides...the pleasures that he could show her would make her begging to stay.

As the thought drifted through his mind, a frown tugged at his lips. 'Beg to stay?' What did he care if she stayed? She would be long dead, after he'd used her gifts and her body. To do otherwise would be to risk a connection and that just would not be tolerable...not acceptable, for one such as himself. And with a human, nonetheless!

A dark voice in the back of his mind whispered, 'then turn her into one of your own,' but he scoffed at the idea. A witch AND a Were? As if giving one being enough power to overthrow him was a bad idea; it was obvious that, if given the strength of his kind, she would come for his head. He had enough problems watching his own men, waiting for them to overthrow him, as those had overthrown his ancestors in the past. There was no way that he would spend valuable time worrying about a chit!


He gave a dismissive wave at the were behind him, eyes on Marissa as his second hurried toward the door. It was strange that she hadn't gone for him, the one 'holding the cards', as these young people said, but he would keep his guard up. She was going to try to kill him, to harm him in some way; that, he was sure of. There was no such thing as trust in this world, and he would be a fool to expect it from a human, a prisoner. Flexing his throbbing fingers, he stood before her, head tilting as he listened to her last statement. Amusement flickered through his eyes, but was squashed, hopefully before it could be noticed.

"I'm afraid that letting you go is out of the question, my dear," He replied smoothly, rolling bare shoulders to ease the tension in his neck. "You see, I believe that your...abilities can be very helpful to my plans for the future. As such, I would appreciate it if you would become a...guest in my home. You see, there is this big, wide world out there that is just ripe for the picking, and I...well. Let's just say that my hand is just strong enough to take it."

With that, he reached his now healed hand out until his fingers touched the barrier separating them. With a few muttered words, he pushed forward, ignoring the ache of the magic he called forth meeting her own, protective circle, and ever so slowly, worked his fingers through the shield.

"Let's end this game, shall we?" Corbin smiled at the witch as he held out his hand, palm up, as if asking her to dance. "Don't worry, you will not be harmed. You are obviously a very special human. To kill you would be foolish, on my part."

Marissa

Oh by all the fires in Abaddon. That was really, SERIOUSLY not happening! The appearance of a hand inside her bubble had her scooting backwards until she was on the far side of her bubble and suddenly, with a loud PING, it burst. Groaning at her own stupidity, Marissa eyed the hand as he approached and bit her bottom lip. Her mind went from flee to fight and then finally decided on a diplomatic approach. Trying to look as if this was all her own idea, she regally placed her hand in his and allowed him to pull her to her feet. The pure strength in that gesture sent a shiver of awareness through her that she couldn't hide.

She strongly suspected he could read how he affected her and that just wouldn't do. She wasn't a puppet to be played with and the sooner he realized it, the better things would be for her. Unfortunately, she didn't have the least idea on how to go about showing him that. A protection circle was one thing but really, she was just a pitiful witch. Oh sure, sure... She could conjure up harmless wards in order to silence or ward off evil but she'd never actually set out to HARM anyone. Mostly, they were a bunch of smoke and mirror tricks that a powerful being could easily get around.

"Um... I don't suppose I could get you to rethink that whole being your guest thing?" she said with a sigh, before taking in his unamused face and sighing. "Guess not... So... I guess that leads to my next question. What exactly ARE you going to do with me?"


Raising her eyes to his, she tilted her head and tried not to let her fear show. There were just some indignities a girl couldn't allow and she had a feeling this man would exploit any weakness he could find. She just had to make sure he didn’t find many. With that resolution firmly in place, she slapped on a smile and straightened her shoulders. She might be a clumsy witch but damn it.. She was a witch.

"You mentioned taking over the world? Have you got some sort of plan in mind? You do realize others have tried that very thing and failed right? I'd hate to see you set yourself up for disappointment." she said, trying to ignore the pure, raw male power that drew her like a moth to the flame.

She wasn't some bitch in heat after all and just cause he repelled and attracted her equally didn't mean she had to act on those impulses right? She had some will power, thank you so very much. So what if that patch of bare skin in the neckline of his shirt made her envision nights spent decadently sprawled out naked but a pile of soft fires before a fire burning merrily in a banked hearth and his hard body poised... OH yeah, definitely have to pull mind away from that one.

Forcing herself back to reality, Marissa went to look up at him and felt her cheeks suddenly burn with embarrassment. Oh heavens, PLEASE tell me he didn't read that all in my face, she thought even as she jerked her gaze away and pretended to look at her now chipped nails.

Corbin

With the hint of humor playing about the curve of his lips, Corbin took a second to think about her request, before replying with a courtly smile and a firm "No." As if he would let her go, now that he saw she had some potential! A witch was a witch, whether or not her expertise was in defense or offense, as far as he'd learned over the years. If she couldn't be filled with deadly black magic, those little 'protection circles' could come in handy during a battle, or during a personal attack. The only problem was that to have her working for him, he would have to have a semblance of trust between them. And, given his current state of mind...

Inwardly, he sighed. Given his current state of mind, if he even CONSIDERED trusting the human, his madness would only become stronger. Paranoia, schizophrenia; this new world had many names for the mind sickness that his bloodline possessed, and in the end, he was better off on his own. If he could take down the Celt with the help of his army, so be it. But, when the feat was over and he was the ruler of this pitiful country? He would kill every single one of the Weres that he'd sired, if only to make sure that none of them would betray him. His ancestors had died by their advisors' hands; he'd vowed long ago, that the same would not happen to him.

His thoughts returned back to the present as she spoke again, the shifter regarded her with a small tilt of his head, and a look of curiosity on his face. So, she hadn't resorted to that fiery anger that he'd gotten a glimpse of before? And hadn't tried to run from him? Interesting...she must have an angle that she was working. But he would have time to figure that one out later. For now...ah, for now, he wanted to explore that sudden burst of heat in her eyes as she looked up at him. This 'Marissa Skye' was a strange human, but just as delicate. It would be so easy to snap those frail little bones, and feed her blood to the parched soil beneath their feet. One of his own kind could withstand his natural ardor; appreciate it, even...but Marissa Skye? Would she prove as feisty a bedmate as she was with that tongue of hers? Or would she break and cry when he finally took her to his bed? Ah, the mystery was enough to make him take a step closer, the beast inside lifting its muzzle to take in that flowery scent of hers. Because she would be lying on the pile of furs in his chamber, spread out like the banquet he knew she was. Whether she liked it or not.

"Please," He said finally, holding out his arm as if time had reversed itself to more formal, more courtly times. "We shall walk while we talk. This antechamber becomes quite damp at night." Glancing up, his eyes lingered on the dusk tinted sky. The stars were bright; peeking out from surrounding clouds as the sun quickly began to set on the horizon above the trees. "I will answer your first question, Marissa Skye. I plan on keeping you here, for a time, to see how...useful you may be to my cause. Which leads us to your second statement?"

At this point, the wolf turned his gaze back down to the witch woman before him, before his attention flickered to the sentries by the door. He could hear paws on dry branches and feel the vibrations of hunting parties returning. From their tempo and the smell of blood on the wind, he knew that they would have a good meal that night. Very good; his men were good for something, or so it seemed. Returning his attention to Rissa, his lips curled in the semblance of a smile. "I will not be disappointed, because I will not fail. It is in my blood to conquer, you see."

Marissa

Oh, yeah... she could DEFINITELY see that in him. The man just fairly blinded her with his male superiority and she had to admit. It was damned attractive. Something primal in her own soul drew her to him but she wasn't stupid enough to think it was the same for him. Only a fool would spin fanciful romantic dribble about this arrogant male. He no doubt thought that the world was his to command and the words "pillage" and "plunder" took on new meaning when she put them up against one so primitive. He would use and discard her if she allowed him any leeway and that she didn't intend for him to do.

At least, not until she was damned good and ready to be discarded. Suddenly, a brilliant thought occurred to her and her lips curved up in a purely feminine arch. If she was out here with HIM... That meant brother dearest wouldn't DARE come in here after her! Imminent death might not await here but she had no doubt that her brother would soon track her to the area and the attempts on her life would start all over again. Maybe this had been a pure stroke of luck after all! She thought gleefully to herself before tamping back her sudden good will.

Turning to look up at him, she caught the tail end of his heated but banked fire. An answering spark roared to a flame inside her and she suddenly forgot to fight it. She was here right? And he obviously wasn't going to let her go any time soon so why the hell shouldn't she enjoy herself? Granted, there was that pesky little fact that she'd never actually BEEN with any man but HELL... He'd never need to know that right? No one had ever really tripped her trigger that was all. Men were entirely to tame these days and having a psychotic brother after your heart didn't exactly make finding bed partners EASY.

Biting her bottom lip, she allowed him to lead her out of the room. The sounds of others around them and gleaming eyes shifting in their direction had her unconsciously scooting closer to him until she realized she was almost plastered to his side. Immediately, she pasted on a regal smirk and arched a brow at the creatures mingling around. Only the quivering of her hand on his gave away her fear.

"Um... Corbin... I have a bit of a confession to make...." she whispered for his ears alone, sighing with resignation as she decided she better at least give him fair warning of what having her around might mean. "I'm afraid you might have misjudged the situation. Keeping me might actually be more trouble that its worth... You see... I have a brother... a nasty piece of work actually... and he kind of... sort of...well... "

Glancing around, she pulled him to a stop and gazed up at him earnestly as she whispered.

"Basically, he is trying to kill me and I have no doubt he'll try to get in here to do just that." she finished with a rush of words and a slump of her shoulders.

Corbin

Casually, Corbin walked the woman down the old cobble halls, eyes flickering from face to face. Smelling the telltale scent of a human, many of his Weres had poked their heads out, both curious and hungry. He could read the question in their eyes and smell the bloodlust on their breath, and he shook his head slightly. It took this level of nonchalance and a few backhands to those who didn't get the silent message, but finally, they'd managed to reach his chamber without interruption. His soldiers were relatively new to the life, most kidnapped and Changed along the way, and as such, they had to be taught who obey their leader.

He was doing his best to attempt at a casual gait, as the warmth of her body seeped through his coat of furs. The beast raised its head once more, growling at the sudden need to taste that pliant skin, and he pushed it back with an inner growl. No, there would be none of that...not yet, at least. He wanted to savor the anticipation, prolong this facade of a 'partnership' as long as he could. With the reward in reach, it was almost amusing for him to keep her at arm’s length, playing the Courtly Host to her, albeit unwilling, Alluring Guest.

Pushing open the heavy wood door, he led her over the threshold. Unlike the crumbled stone room that made up the Hall, his antechamber was furnished for a king. There were two rooms connected by an arched doorway, with one side housing what seemed like an eating area, equipped with table, chairs, settee and counter of brandy snifters. The other side was the bedroom, sporting a crackling fire, various portraits and weapons tacked on the wall...and the bed of furs that he so longed to have covered in that flowery scent of hers.

All in all, the rooms were more civil than the atmosphere outside; a strange comparison with the feral show from before. Though he lived like an animal and accepted his beast like the superior being that it was, he was not above enjoying the luxuries of his human side. And, as a respectable Warlord, with emphasis on the 'lord,' he was just expected to live in style.

Sliding his arm from hers, the shifter moved casually to the settee, turning to recline easily on the soft leather cushion. He let his coat fall open, revealing his bare chest, riddled with scars and tattoos. There was an amused expression on his face as he listened to her, and something akin to disappointment flitted through his chest at her change in tone.

He did so enjoy the fire before...and, not to mention that sultry smile that had flirted on her lips just moments before. Though he'd made it a point to keep his attention on his slightly volatile soldiers, the expression hadn't eluded his attention. In truth, the sight of the feminine grin, both sexy and calculating in its expression, had made both man and beast growl in unison. She was human, weak and disgusting, and yet something told him that the little kitten had her claws.

And oh, did he want to feel them running along his back, as he made her scream his name to the night. His name on her lips made his own curl in enjoyment, as he watched her with the same amused expression on his face.

Once again, that low, rusty laugh escaped him. "You think that this 'brother' poses a problem to you while you are here?" He asked after a moment, composing himself."Little witch, you have nothing to fear while you are a guest under this roof. If you have not noticed, my men are not weak humans. But let us make a bargain," He leaned forward, elbows on his knees and eyes sparkling with an almost devilish light. "I swear to make sure this 'brother' does not harm you while you are in my...care, and you will use your powers to help me. No questions asked."

Marissa

OH, he so wasn't taking her warning like he should. Evan was evil through and through and she had no doubt that he would make a try for her here. However, she'd done her duty to tell him of the threat so that was that. With any luck though, the man before her would be able to hold his own. He definitely looked all predators like as he sat on that chaise and stared at her with those intense eyes. Boy howdy if that look didn't make a girl wanna melt into a puddle of goo. Damn him back to his turn. That look outta be outlawed. Oh wait, he WAS an outlaw. Crap.

Bringing her thoughts back into focus, Rissa tilted her head a bit and then arched a brow as she gaze at him thoughtfully. A suspicious frown marred her pretty face as she contemplated his offer and saw gigantic holes in it. There were just some things she would NOT do, even for protection from her brother. After all, it wasn't as if she were really scared of the idiot. It was just that she didn't want to see anyone else harmed for his maniacal need to get back at her for his own corrupt actions. He was crazy but crazy as a fox when it came to plotting the downfall of others. She didn't want to be responsible for any more deaths. There had been too many all ready.

Unfortunately, she wasn't about to just give this fierce creature her promise either. Something told her he was just as capable of twisting her magic for his own uses and she wasn't going to allow it to harm anyone. She wasn't a black witch, damn it, and she wasn't going to turn into one in the future. Of their own violation, her legs began to move and the petite blond began to pace in front of him. Muttering under her breath, she tried to work through the problem to a solution and was unaware of the eaves droppers lingering nearby until she almost ran smack into one. Yelping, she looked up and glared.

"Dagnabbit... Didn't anyone teach you its rude not to watch where you’re going?" she practically snarled at the creature before it growled at her. "Oh go get a Scooby snack, buddy. I've had about enough of your sorts "hospitality". You’re lucky your master over there saved your ass."

When the beast made like he wanted to rip her throat out, an angry gleam flared to life in her green eyes and she slapped him with a rune so fast, it knocked him backwards off his feet and he landed in a puddle of confusion. Placing her hands on her slim hips, the witch stood over him, tapping her foot on the floor and hissing. "I may be here against my will and I may be your leader’s captive but I'm no one’s bitch, little puppy. Don't mistake me for one or you will be the one paying the price."

Then, turning on her heal, she stalked back towards her captor and stopped in front of him. With emerald eyes blazing, she met his gaze and wondered if he was going to try to kill her for her actions against his clan. Her expression said she really didn't care if he did. He might have a hold over her but those over idiots certainly didn't and she wasn't going to pretend they did. He was the ONLY thing in this fort that she was truly scared of and her chin was tilted a bit defiantly as she spoke.

"I will accept on one condition... One condition or no bargain. I will agree to help you on anything you ask as long as it does not harm an innocent in any way, shape or form. My magic is to be used only for protection or defense. At any point, you command me to hurt someone, our agreement becomes null and void and I will refuse you." she intoned, dropping her voice so that only he could hear her. Instinct told her that to directly challenge him where others could hear would be a bad decision and she was no one’s fool. "As long as you agree to that, then you have my word I shall be a good little captive."

Then, seeming to realize she had drawn herself a bit too close to his half naked body, she tried to back up even as her gaze was drawn to his open coat and the scars that suddenly seemed to catch her attention. A gasp escaped her as she involuntarily leaned forward and raised a hand as if to trace one that looked particularly savage. "GOOD HEAVENS! WHO DID THIS? TELL ME RIGHT NOW SO THAT I CAN HEX THEIR IDIOTIC ASSES! Did it hurt terribly? I hope you made them pay.... “She hissed, having no idea why the thought of him hurt and bleeding disturbed her. By all rights, she supposed she should have celebrated the fact but it just filled her with a desire to rip someone’s head off herself.


Suddenly, a thought knocked her back on her hells and she stumbled backwards only to sit down hard at his feet. A bit of a dazed look came into her eyes as she kept staring at him and then she groaned. Well, hell. This just figured, didn't it? Leave it to her to turn down every NICE guy that came along and then wily nilly find herself turned inside out by the very sort of man she should logically be terrified of. OK, so maybe she was a bit terrified of him but it was with an underlying sense of a titillating excitement. Her body warmed and her unique scent of honeysuckle and rose faintly filled the air around them. Oh yeah, if she'd been in trouble before... It was nothing compared to the mess she'd landed in now.

Corbin

With his arms stretched over the back of the couch and his legs splayed out, he made quite the relaxed image. Even when one of his sentries was smacked around like a bitch, he just sat there, watching the scene with an amused expression on his face, as if he were watching a comedy. In the end, however, he stood with a small sigh and strolled over to the growling were on the ground. The wolf immediately backed off, ears coming to rest on its head and tail tucking between its legs. Before it could scuttle out on its own, the shifter snapped out a hand, grabbed the wolf by the back of its neck, and threw it’s over 100-pound-self out of the door to his suite.

Stupid Weres. His antechamber was off limits to the filthy animals that he created, and the guard was obviously out of his mind in forgetting that fact. The only people allowed in his rooms was himself and his second and even Terrence was forbidden to remain for more than ten minutes at a time. Many a conqueror had fallen at the hands of subtle poisons or hidden traps, and he would not be joining their ranks.

The were lay submissively on the ground where it lay, half dazed from rebounding off of the opposite wall. "Two plates, Terrence," He informed his second, who was waiting outside, face blank. With a nod, the Were was gone, leaving the sentry to the care of his brothers in arms. As if the exchange was as run-of-the-mill as saying hello, he calmly closed the door and strolled back into the room. He returned to the chair, turning to face her, when her exclamation sounded loudly through the room.

Confusion warred with surprise as he sat back down onto the leather seat, only to be half covered by flower scented wisps of hair, as slender fingers traced the outlines of his scars. No, there would be no fear from this woman...but whatever replaced it was throwing him into territory that was both unknown and unwanted. His hand reached up to catch her wrist, but closed around thin air as she suddenly fell to the floor at his feet. Which put her face level with a part of his anatomy that would be quite happy to be outlined by those soft fingers, to his embarrassment.

Embarrassment, shock, confusion...good God, this woman was most certainly a witch, to make him feel such things. Though he stayed outwardly calm, the human inside him practically raged at the emotions, and he could feel the telltale pressure in the back of his head; the urge to hit, to hurt, to feel blood on his hands. His family carried a nasty curse, and if he wasn't careful, this woman would be its champion.

Slowly rising to his feet, Corbin reached out a hand to help the strange woman up off of the floor. "Such concern...are you angry for me, ruhyuska? Don't be; all those who betray me don't live to repeat their transgressions." As he spoke, his free hand went absently to the coat that covered his upper half, made of the furs of his enemies.

"But let us return to the important topic," He said, face grave as he watched her. When she raised her hand, he slid those soft fingers into his, pulling her to her feet with ease, as well as a bit of extra force that brought lush curves up against his side. Ah, how he enjoyed having her so close. Humans disliked being touched, but the wolf in him rejoiced at the contact...even if it expected an attack.

"I accept your terms. I will make sure that no harm comes to you, and in return, you will help me...in a purely defensive manner." It was a pity that she seemed too resistant against the dark magic’s that he craved to use against his enemies. But, in the end, it was his head that would be on the chopping block, if an attack was ever launched against him. Why not use her 'defense' for his own skin? His people had done worse in the past.

Marissa

Marissa was quiet sure that the man before her had no idea how much of the raging emotions she was able to read in his dark eyes. They shifted so quickly with his keen intelligence that she suspected most people never had a clue what hit them when he made a quick silver decision. There was such ferocity in the chocolate depths that went hand in hand with his animalistic nature. Her muscles tensed as she read his sudden desire to hurt her and then relaxed as it eased into something a bit more undefined. Her own feelings were in such a scramble that she could almost feel a bit of kinship with him. When he reached a hand down to her, she slipped her much smaller, more delicate one into it without thought and felt his savage strength lift her to her feet.

The extra tug he put into his pull brought her body against his and her breath caught. Bloody Hell, why did she suddenly feel like a feline in heat who wanted to rub herself all over him? Or maybe she was that bitch that she'd just insisted she wasn't. Talk about bad timing when it came to becoming aware of one’s sexuality. Being with this man would be raw and primitive and not the least bit soft. She'd always thought when she found that someone who made her crazy with desire that it would be sweet, soft and passionate with things besides animal lust involved. Sex with this man would be hard, savage and soul shattering. Instinct assured her of that even as self preservation practically screamed for her to take a few steps back from the situation and rationalize it all logically.

"Um, then I'm yours to command." she returned softly before realizing how her words could be taken and turning red. "I mean, in the strictest sense of our treaty."

OH hell, she was really going to be in trouble before this was all through. She could feel it in her very soul and she sighed even as she gave a mental shrug. Let the games begin then. At least she was now safe from her asshole of a brother and had this man's promise that no harm would come to her while in his care. That certainly couldn't be said about Evan and his demon hoards. Absently, her hand came up to lay upon a smooth, hard expanse of very naked flesh and her fingers traced a ward of protection over his heart. Without realizing what she'd done, she tried to take a step away only to become aware he was still holding her close and her eyes shot up to his with a banked expression.

"And what shall you do with me now?" she asked, her voice soft and husky.

Corbin

Oh, how those words spurred a shiver to crawl down his spine. For a moment, Corbin had to close his eyes to compose himself. Both the human and the wolf picked their heads up and took notice of her closeness, of the heat from her body and the invitation that her words offered. What would he do with her? Oh, the things he WANTED to do TO her...

The wolf howled in his mind, demanding that he scoop her up in his arms and take her to the bedroom. Her hand on his chest, the soft flit of her fingers across the space over his heart caused him to flinch, the movement subtle as he fought to control himself. Casual touching, nearness...it wasn't allowed on any normal day. The females that he took to his bed were faceless, hands tied and spread out for his enjoyment. There was no holding them close, allowing those would-be treacherous hands to touch his skin. There was just the physical act, the delicious sound of screams and the contentment that followed. Anything more would be pure madness.
Or would it? The trecherous voice whispered in the back of his mind, and the shifter opened his eyes to look down at her, a hungry fire simmering in them as his lips curled into the semblance of a smile.
He could just imagine what her screams would sound like.

His hand came up to catch her wrist as her fingers traced the ward over his heart, mouth opening to reply. A knock interrupted him, and with a frown, he turned his attention to the door. Instinct made him tense, hand tightening a bit around the slender bones beneath it, and his nose flared as he took in the telltale scent. Earth, sweat and sex...ah, one of his own. Releasing the witch, Corbin sauntered away, exchanging a few murmured words with the sentry outside, before turning around, hands full with two trays of food.

"I suppose I would feed you," He replied smoothly, detached mask back on his face.

Placing the plates down onto the table, he motioned for her to join him. Normally, he would join the others in the Hall to dine on whatever kill they'd brought back to share; he, in his fur, taking his Alpha position at the head of the carcass, while the others watched hungrily. But, when one had a human for a guest, he supposed that eating cooked meat was preferrable. Pulling out her chair, he motioned for her to sit.

"You will be of no use to me half starved," He continued. "Venison and beef. Bon appetite, little witch."

Marissa

Oh yeah, the heat in his eyes when he looked down at her was enough to burn her alive and she suddenly wanted to touch every part of him. Caress away the hard lines on his face while kissing that hard skin until he lost complete control and showed her just how fierce he could be in the throws of passion. Thank god that the sound of a knock on the door came before she could make a complete and utter fool of herself. The grip on her wrist caused her to wince but she quickly pushed away the flicker of pain.

When he walked away and took a tray of food from the sentry outside, she wandered over towards the table and stood watching as he carried it back and set it before her. His action of pulling out a chair for her suprised her but she gave him a grateful smiled and sat down.

His words about the food made her gaze go to the food and she waited for him to be seated before serving two plates and offering one to him. She didn't know what the protocal was for dinning with ones captor but she decided to be as ladylike as possible. Feeling his eyes upon her, she frowned when she found no utensils among the food but then shrugged and picked up a piece of meat daintly. Raising it to her mouth, she was just about to take a bit when a faint aroma hit her nostrils and her eyes widened. Thinking she was imagining it, she raised the piece of venison to her nose and sniffed again. Immediately, she knew her suspicions were correct and she lunged across the table to bat away the meat Corbin was just about to eat.

"NO!!!!!! ITS POISONED!" she shouted as she stood beside him, shaking with fear and disbelief. "CORBIN! THERE IS HEMLOCK IN THAT FOOD!"

"I'm telling you the truth, sir... If you had taken that bit, you would shortly have been dead."

Corbin

Corbin bit back a smirk at the sudden look of surprise on her face as he pulled out her chair. What, were conquerors and warlords not allowed to act civil toward their guests? Yes, he might be the acting jailor and she his current piece of interest...but really, she made it seem like she was expecting him to chuck a dead deer into the room and have at it. Ah, the youth today. All that Hollywood nonsense was enough to make any red blooded shifter insane.

Seating himself at the head of the table once she was settled, he couldn't help but feel a strange sensation travel over him. How long had it been since he'd shared a civil meal with anyone? There was that courtesan in 1903, but that hardly counted as 'sharing' anything, given that most of the food had been layed out on her. As she slid a plate in front of him, he couldn't help but notice how...God, how HOMEY it all seemed. The modern idea of a house and white picket fence flashed in his mind, and it was all he could do not to tilt his head back and laugh.

An air of amusement surrounded him as he turned his attention to the meal in front of him. It was funny how the humans he'd turned were of the modern world, and yet after becoming one of his, they forgot all previous sense of humanity. The lack of utensils, for one. But, instead of becoming irritated, the act brought a sense of pride seeping into his chest, like a father realizing that his children had done something right. His little minions were learning his ways and forgetting their own. Oh, how happy a General he would be, if his armies were lacking in dissent.

But, as with all things, the sense of pride vanished as the fiery witch suddenly leapt from her chair, smacking the meat from his hands. In seconds, he was on his feet and easing into a defensive stance, mind screaming and wolf howling. Was this the expected attack? Was now the time for her to attempt to escape? As her words penetrated the sudden fog of paranoia, a snarl curled his lips and he reached down for the venison that had been so rudely smacked out of his hand.

Holding it up to his nose, he let his senses take over. Charred flesh, evaporated blood...and yes, right there, the sickly sweet smell of poison. So, his fears were confirmed. As his forefathers had before him, he had a traitor in his midst.

The switch was flipped again, and the amused mask was replaced with one of abject fury. With a snarl, he knocked the dishes away, eyes twitching at the sound of breaking china that followed. Someone was going to pay for this, in blood. They had tried to poison him..HIM! And had put his newest possession at risk! The beast began to rise to the forefront, and he embraced the burn. He wouldn't allow himself to change fully, only accepting the snap and crack of the bones on his face as the wolf fought to emerge. His eyeteeth lengthened, fingers stretched into claws, and the muscles on his arms and chest bulged, as if being pushed out by an inner pressure. His eyes were a burning bronze when he focused his attention on her, a growl bubbling in his throat.

"You will stay here," Came the deep rumble, as he turned for the door. The crash had the sentries outside forcing the door open, and seeing their leader enraged, immediately retreated to the hall. He let his coat fall to the ground behind him as he strode out into the hall, the night air crisp against his bare skin. Catching sight of his second as he came out into the hall, he let loose another low growl, commanding the wolf to watch over the blond woman inside. With a bow, his minion obeyed, and Corbin left for the kitchens.

Eyeing the human within his Master's room, Terrence stood idly by the door, taking in the shattered plates and abandoned food with an idle expression on his face. The Were was younger than Corbin, with Roman-esque features and a distinctively absent manner about him. 'The perfect servant,' as those in the Elizabethan Era had called his kind, and he played the role to the T. Yet, underneath the expressionless facade, there lurked an intelligence that took in every aspect of the room, staring with the placement of the furniture and ending with the witch across the room.

"Have a seat, human," He said, voice as emotionless as his face. "The Master will be back shortly. I heard that you believe the food was poisoned. How strange a coincidence...you appear, and the Master is in danger." There was something behind the Were's eyes as he watched Marissa, but Terrence was not one to show his cards too easily. From the open door, the faint sounds of roaring could be heard, echoing down the halls like a gust of wind. Pained howls, enraged snarls, bodies behind thrown from wall to wall; a frightening cocophany of sound that made even the shifted sentries in the hall cringe with fear.

Twenty minutes later, Corbin returned. The fortress was in an uproar, with most of the pack hiding in the woods or their respective rooms while their leader attempted to cool his head. The shifter was back to his human form, chest and arms splattered with drying blood and in a dark mood as he stalked into his quaters. Without being asked, his second was out of the door and back to waiting patiently outside. Seemingly forgetting Marissa's presence, Corbin paced the room, fists clenched and head down so that shoulder lengthed hair shadowed half of his face.

Marissa

Oh God, Oh God, Oh God. Those were the only words that would make their way through Marissa's mind. The shift in Corbin was so savage that she couldn't breath as he sniffed the meat and then growled low in his throat. Staying motionless, the witch watched as his teeth elogated and then his muscles bulged. His snarled order made her jump but she did as she was told as he stalked out the door and another wolf stepped inside the room. Something about this new guard made her uneasy and she shifted uneasily. Moving without thought, she went to where the chaise sat and when he told her to be seated, she sat. There were thick fur robes on the sofa so she pulled one smelling faintly of Corbin and pulled it around her.

The scent calmed her for some reason even though she could hear the savage yells and screams from somewhere in the compound. The guards words then intruded and she glared at the creature. There was something in his eyes she didn't like and she knew she had an enemy in this one. However, she was to tired and to drained to fence words with the being so she simply ignored him and curled into the fur. With her eyes glued upon the doorway, she counted down the minutes until she heard the sound of footsteps returning but forced herself to remain where she was at. When he entered the room, she let out a small sigh she hadnt known she was holding and then watched him pace back and forth. She wanted to ask what had happened but didn't care bring his attention to her in this sort of mood.

Long, silent minutes passed until the young witch could not bear it any longer. Pushing slowly to her feet, she pulled the fur around her and made slowly to the door. Glancing back over her shoulder, she took in the drying blood that layered Corbin's skin and felt herself tremble a bit. Careful to keep her movements slow as to not trigger his feral response, she attracted the attention of the sentry. The coldness in the man's eyes made her lift her chin and glare at him as she asked softly for hot water to be brought for a bath and then she shut the door in his face. Turning slowly, she leaned on the rickety barrier and looked across the room to meet the "Master's" eyes. The coldness there made her want to run screaming away from the madhouse she'd ladned inside but instead she took slow, gentle steps towards him.

Only when she was directly in front of him did she stop and allow her gaze to drop.

In a very soft voice, she sought to redirect the rage and madness she had seen in those deep, dark depths. Using unusual meekness, the witch whispered. "I have ordered you a bath, my lord. Come... Let me sooth you.."

Holding out her hand, she let the fur drop to the floor and offered the only thing she could think of to try to, if not comfort, relax him. If there was one thing she did understand it was the feeling of betrayal and she suspected if she had had the physical strength to destroy those responsible for her own, she would have turned as savage as he. She'd definitely felt like ripping a few heads off.

Why she felt the need to defused him, she did not know. He was obviously well capable of taking care of himself and she could tell he wanted to rip her to shreds but instead of letting that detour her, she simply waited. Even animals were known to need the warmth of a kind touch and something about this savage beast made her own heart ache. Yeah, she was a fool but she'd always had a soft heart for tormented animals and the madness she sensed in this creature was something she couldn't ignore.

For long minutes they stood there silent, one in fury, one with patience. The sound of a soft knock on the door and then the opening of the barrier caused her to cast a look over her shoulder and watch as a huge tub was carried in and then silently filled with steaming hot water. Only when they were alone again did Marissa turn back to Corbin.

"Please..... Allow me to serve you?" she said softly, entreating. "I vow I mean no trickery... I just wish to make you comfortable....If you wish to bathe in private, I could wait outside...."

Corbin

Everything was happening just as he'd feared. His Russian ancestors had been betrayed by their people, dying in horrible ways in order to bring a new order to the throne. He had too much to loose, too much to do before he died! And even then, his descent into Hell would be on his own terms. God...poison! Why couldn't his enemies come out and face him? He'd taught his men to favor combat; to never give up ground without blood. Yet one of his own, one of his army, was trying to kill him with this...slight of hand! It both disgusted and fueled the rage, and bloody fists clenched at his sides as he paced.


Betrayal, blood, death before his time...the wolf's growls echoed in his mind as he fought the sweet agony of the Change. If he lost his head, he would succumb to the insanity that he so feared and run through the fortress, killing any who come into his path. He couldn't risk his position in the oncoming war by stripping his own ranks, and thus he held on, shoved the howling beast back as he clenched his teeth, growls bubbling from his chest to his throat. As he reached the wall, one fist lashed out, bone smashing against the old brick wall and breaking beneath it. The pain helped him keep his feet, and a grimace-smile slid onto his lips as bones immediately began to heal.


But, despite all of his efforts, all of the normal things that kept his mind from turning as feral as the beast inside...it was an unfamiliar voice that escorted him across the abyss and back into reality. The words of a woman, a witch, a HUMAN. How...unexpected.
Marissa Skye moved toward him, slow and careful, as if he were a wounded animal in need of comforting. Indeed, as her voice reached his ears, the wolf stopped its growling, watching the woman through his eyes with its ears perked in curiosity. Bones shifted as he slowly reverted back to his human form, amber eyes almost mesmerized as they zoned in on her face.

Almost suspiciously, he watched her, holding himself still as she moved closer. His fists were still clenched at his side, but the sharp claws of insanity seemed to recede, as mesmerized by the enchanting woman before him as the wolf. In the silence, he took a step toward her, looking down into her angelic face. "Such a nice gesture from one demanding her release before," He said, voice soft and rough. "I wonder why. You could have let me eat the poisoned food, and yet you spoke up. I would not have expected that of a human."

Nor would he have expected it of one of his own men, but he kept that realization silent. His fists slowly uncurled as one hand came up to trace a finger along the curve of her cheek. He moved closer still, until only inches seperated them and her sweet scent filled his nose with images of bright flowers and warm rays of sun. His hand drifted lower, following the soft flesh down across the curve of her neck, to the fragile bones of her shoulder.

Before it could trail lower, however, the sound of a knock against the door jerked him to reality and he took a quick step back. Instinctively, the wolf moved him slightly in front of the woman as two servants hurried in with a tub and water. When they were gone, Corbin let loose a sigh.

"You did not have to call for a bath," He said after a minute of standing with his back to her. "I normally wash in the stream outside. Water can hold a poison as well as a piece of meat."

But, despite the statement, he moved over to the tub, taking a deep breath of the hot steam. There was no trace of poison, nothing amiss, and without a second thought, unzipped his now torn leather pants and pushed them down his hips. Completely naked, he rolled stiff muscles, glad to get rid of the last vestiges of the annoying human covering. An ominous tattoo of a black clawed hand seemed to grip his back and shoulders, illuminating the scars that crisscrossed the skin. Without a second glance in her direction, he stepped into the tub, a soft groan escaping him as the warmth seemed into quickly closing wounds.

Marissa

So much power... So much distrust. Marissa held her breath as she watched him gather himself and then sigh. He was so tense and the madness she sensed roiling under his surface made her fear him even as she wanted to offer him some softness in this bitter world. It simply was not in her to truly want anyone's misery and it was her way to try to ease it if she could. If that made her a fool, then so be it. Everyone deserved to have one person in the world who wouldn't seek to destroy them and instinct told her there was no one else who would offer him shelter. "I know I did not have too... I wasn't even sure you would want it but sometimes simple pleasures can restore ones equilibrium." she said softly, almost to herself as he moved towards the now steaming water.

Unable to avert her eyes, the small witch was entranced as he stepped from his clothing and his frame rippled with suppressed strength. A silent gasp escaped her as her gaze touched on the black clawed tatoo and the menace it seemed to elude. The fact that he'd chosen to mar his spectacular body with such a mark made her wonder about him even more. When he stepped into the tub, she tore her gaze from him and then moved softly across the room to a dresser that sat along the far wall. Careful to keep her actions slow and none threatening, she spied a thick piece of material and a plate that held a course piece of what she assumed was soap. Picking both up, Marissa carried her bounty towards the huge tub and then sat them down on the side of the huge metal tub.


Stepping back from the tub, then, she gave him space and went to sit in one of the huge chairs that lined the room. Curling her body in a ball, she averted her gaze and then began to talk quietly, hoping to distract him for the brutality of the night.

"You asked me why before.... Why I did not allow you to eat the poisoned meat...." she started out, letting her fingers pluck at the fur that was draped over the arm of her seat. "When I said before that I would not intentionally bring harm or do harm to another, I meant it... To a certain extent. I assure you that if someone harms me or those I care about, I have a temper that can be just as fierce as yours but its reserved for those who deserve it. You have not harmed me or hurt me in any way although I have read the urge to do just that in your eyes.”

Falling silent, she raised her gaze to look at him and then took a deep breath before continuing. "Because of that…and because of what I’ve seen.. I give you one promise..I will never.. ever.. try to underhandedly harm you in any way, shape or form. I find that sort of treachery dishonorable and demeaning. If your worthy enough of my wrath than your worthy enough to know that I will confront you head on and directly. I may not be as strong or as powerful as you but I do have enough intelligence and magic to do damage if you hurt me.... and that will be the only way I will attack you”

Tilting her head back, she reached up and tucked a lock of sunshine behind her ear and then put her chin to rest on her palm.

"Not only that but I believe that everyone should have one person in their lives that they don’t have to fear putting a knife in their back. I, myself, have been to long looking over my shoulder waiting for the moment my own brother will rip out my heart and fed it to his demons like hes long promised. I will not be the cause of that worry for anyone else.. even you.... Besides which... I think you have enough on your plate with your plan for world dominance and all."

Letting a slight note of humor enter her voice at the end, she smiled a bit impishly at him and then wrinkled her nose in a purely feminine manner.

"Besides which, to the victor goes the spoils, right?? No offense, Corbin, but the rest of your pack stink. If I have to be locked away with a brooding, intense beast... I'd much rather that beast be clean, lean and entirely to sexy for my peace of mind than rabid, drooling and infested with fleas. A girl does have to have her standards, you know!"

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Corbin

'Simple pleasures,' did she say? The image of her naked and writhing beneath him shot through his brain and he was relieved when she turned to move to the other side of the room. This sudden, violent reaction to her nearness was disconcerting, if nothing else. Women he desired, he slept with and discarded, but this Marissa Skye...there was something to the woman that made him hungry for something more. Something that he would never allow himself to have.

Inwardly grumbling at the sudden roil of unexpected emotion, Corbin leaned back against the porcelain behind him, basking in the heat of the water. The tub was too short to comfortably hold his tall self, and his knees bent a bit comically as he attempted to stretch out. Another grumble escaped him as he stretched his legs over the end of the tub, sighing in relief as joints popped back to their original positions. He made a comical sight, he thought with yet another inner sigh. Probably like a Lord being taken down a notch, when his castle was exchanged for a townhouse.

Forcing himself to sit up, he snatched the rag and soap from the dish on the floor and began to scrub off the layers of dirt and blood that caked his hands and chest. A sharp intake of breath was the only indication of the sting of the cuts on his chest, and he once again relished in the pain. Sufficiently cleaned, he tipped his head back briefly so that he could wet his hair- not too long under the water, just in case the alluring witch meant to strike him during a distraction- and then stood. A bark brought the servants waiting outside hurrying into the room to fetch the tub, neither of whom seemed to notice their leader's nakedness. With a quiet command, the two men hurried out of the room with instructions to bring in another tub and hot water for the human.


Somewhere in the back of his head, he remembered something about humans feeling awkward about their bodies, but he shoved it away. The witch was too busy talking to notice if he was clothed or not, he thought with a slight curve of his lips. Sauntering over to a chest of drawers where she'd found the soap, he took out yet another pair of leather pants and slid them on.

She said that she did not believe in treachery...what a coincidence. His human half snorted in disbelief, but he sided with the wolf for the moment, when he sensed only unease coming from her. Once again, the shifter was dressed in his fur coat and leathers, and with a meek knock, yet another bath was filled.

He was on his way to returning the soap dish to its previous home, a smirk on his face as he wondered how 'trustworthy' she really was...when her last statement caught his attention. The soap forgotten, he was across the room and looming over her before she could finish the sentence. "And your standards include me, does it?" He said softly, the close proximity not needing a loud voice. He braced his hands to either side of her head, lowering his head down so that he was eye level. His face was in its normal neutral mask, but his eyes practically glowed in the dim lighting. "You have to be the first human that I have encountered who has not cowered in my presence. Nor screamed, cried, begged nor tried to kill me. Though, I wouldn't put that last one by you just yet, aquaintances as we are. But choose your words carefully, little witch. It is not wise to tease an animal."

He watched her while he spoke, nostrils flaring slightly as he took in that sweet, unfamiliar scent. He wanted her right then, the wolf practically howling for release, but he managed to keep his composure.

Marissa

Damn, the man moved like lightening. One moment she was trying to tease him from his bad mood and the next he was looming over her with his intense eyes. She'd been so busy talking that she hadn't registered the fact that he'd gotten out of the tub and dressed. Now, the crisp clean scent of him intoxicated her even more than he had before. Oh dear lord, this kind of temptation just wasn't right. Not when a girl had absolutely no experience in fending off the type of lust his pure male aggression triggered. Biting her bottom lip, her gaze when to the hard line of his jaw and then locked on his dark gaze. Heaven help her but she knew where this was all heading and she simply didn't give a damn.

"Ummm.... I guess you could say that my standards have always been of the highest...." she got out in a husky rasp. "As for begging and screaming.. I'm not sure I can promise never to do that in your presence... I'm quiet sure that you can drag that response from me...in some manner or another..." Reaching out tentitively, she placed a soft palm on his cheek and then closed the distance between them until she could press her lips to his in a hesitant kiss. Pulling back slightly, she stared right into his eyes when she smiled and said. "And I never tease... I fully mean what I say."

Then, pushing up back with gentle hands on his chest, she gracefully left the chair and turned her back to him. It was a daring bid but something told her that he was still puzzled by her and she wanted him to have to time work through that. As she made her way over to the newly filled tub, she pulled the few pins left in her hair out and sat them aside. A new nervousness made itself known but she pushed it back. She'd chosen her path and there was no place for shyness here.

Reaching behind her, she was grateful that the zipper to the ruined dress was low enough she could managed it and then let the material slide to the floor. The matching set of red underwear she wore quickly followed and then she hurriedly stepped into the hot water. Instantly, the aches that hadcome from being carted around like a sack of potatos eased and she sat down in order to take full advantage of the comfort.

Allowing her lashes to float shut for a moment, she laid her head on the back of the tub and sighed in pleasure. Now if only there were a million little bubbles in there with her, she thought would have been in heaven. A slight rustle of noise cause to her peek out from under her long lashes but she couldn't bring herself to look at her companion for fear that instant embarrassment would strike and her cool control would vanish. There was no way in HELL she was going to admit that she'd never been naked with a man before when she was sure that he'd had more women than a hollywood porn star.
She had no doubt that women threw themselves at him left and right. For some reason, that thought made her own lips curl back in a snarl. Dear Lord.. She really WAS losing it.

Spying the soap on the floor nearby, the pretty blond sighed and then reached for it. Shampooing her hair first, she rinsed it and left it twisted on the top of her head. The rest of her bath was quickly seen too as the water cooled fast in the evening temperature fast settling on the ruins. When she was finished, Rissa frowned and quickly became aware of a problem that she hadn't forseen. "Well, crap...." she muttered to herself. She had no clothing.

Sighing in resignation, she stood up and stepped out of the tub, all the while feeling Corbins eyes upon her.

Moving as gracefully as her suddenly cold body would allow, she practically raced for the thick material he had used earlier and wrapped it around herself. Then, and only then, did she turn her gaze back to his. "I seem to be in a bit of a predicament...." she told him softly. " I'm afraid when your men grabbed me.... They forgot to grab my suitcases too...."

(Ok, FINALLY got this edited and posted. Sorry it took so Long! Seems like we've been tapping away at it gradually and I wanted to get it posted.)

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Corbin

God, the woman really didn't know that it was a mistake to tease an animal. Or was she merely toying with him? Throwing out those innocent looks and hesitant smiles...did she plan on bringing him in close, just to slide the knife between his ribs. It was so tiring, trying to keep himself one step in front of everyone. Just once, he would like to savor the sweet taste of forbidden fruit...and maybe tonight would be that time.

With that one soft, butterfly kiss, he felt himself wanting her more than he'd ever craved anything in his life. The traitor in his midst, the Celt resting comfortably in town, his plans to rule; all were somehow transported to the back of his mind as easily as a breath. What was it about this enchanting young thing that made him want her so? The thoughts made him frown, as he allowed himself to be pushed back. Hungry eyes watched her as she climbed into the tub, and it took all of his self control to remain where he was. With an outward ease, he sank down onto the couch that she had deserted, arms stretched over the back and legs stretched out in front of him. Her voice had grated on him before, with its high shrills and cutting words...but hell if it didn't soothe the beast.

He could smell her nervousness- along with other things...oh, to break his control and have her now- and it brought an almost feral smile to his lips. The scent of his soap on her skin made the wolf grumble in satisfaction in his head, and he remained silent as she washed. 'What now' was the dominant question in his head, as he watched her, suspicion warring with amusement and desire. He so longed to forget completely the course of the day, but he was not in the position to let his guard down...especially not around a strange woman. Sure, a woman that his wolf was practically purring at having so close, but a stranger nonetheless. What if her goal was to seduce him, make him turn cheek, before she stuck a knife in his back? He'd been betrayed by beautiful faces before, and the future offered no better conquest.

When she stood, so did he, rising slowly to his feet with a ripple of muscle. He sauntered over to her, gait slow and almost lazy and he stopped a few inches away. An idea began to form in his mind, and the smile returned to his lips, as rough hands came down to pull the edges of the thick coat closer.

"We shall go to town tomorrow, then," He said, eyes locked on hers. "I've not been there for a while now...and there are people that I would wish to see. You will get your things and...show me around New Orleans. Does that sound palatable to you, little witch?" His fingers lingered at the smooth skin of her neck. He was beginning to understand why vampires favored the particular vein, he thought with an inner growl, because he would sorely like to taste her.

Marissa

The man was an animal. The way he moved. The way he breathed. It was pure beauty in motion and it made her want to hear him purr. Suspiction and distrust warred with uncertainty and desire as she watched him cross the distance between them. The light touch of his fingers on her neck made her pulse race and she became very aware of how easy it would be for him to snap her neck like a twig. Luckily, what she saw in his eyes seemed to match her own emotions and she found herself leaning towards him without concious thought. Even as he spoke, her eyes drifted shut and she inhaled his scent, letting it warm her soul and heat her middle.

"Town? Yes... that sounds... good.... " she said absently even as she raised her lashes and hit him with the full effect of her emerald eyes. "but as far as showing you are New Orleans.. I'm afraid you know it better than I. How about you show me instead?"

Reaching out, she slide a hand under his coat and gentlly laid a hand upon his chest. Her gaze traveled over his chiseled features, down his firm chin and lower to the opening in the fur. There was curiousity and interest there for him to read even as she glanced back up as if not quiet sure he wouldn't protest her explorations.

"Why is it I suddenly feel like I've been transported back in time? I feel as if we are acting out some past event between a warlord and his captive." she teased softly, moving closer. "Rightly, I should be screaming bloody murder and beating down the doors to get away from you. I'm sure that is what most sane women would do.... Probably what you even expect me to do..." Giving a delicate shrug, the petite blond frowned. "Unfortunately, i've never been one that did what was expected....and I have no desire what so ever to run screaming away..."

Then, grinning impishly, she beamed up at him.

"Unless thats what you want me to do..... I'm sure I can give you a chase if you really want one.... But seeing as I'm lacking clothing... that might just cause more trouble with your men.... "


CORBIN

"Little witch, if that was the case," Corbin said with a smirk, fingers lightly traveling along the soft skin of her neck and shoulder. "You would be tied to the bed and at my mercy. There would be no banging at my door because you would be too...preoccupied with other things." And ah, the things he wished to do to that lithe body so close to him. He clenched his teeth as her hand burrowed under his coat, instinctively catching her wrist in his free hand. There was no weapon, his mind whispered, and no intent in her eyes...if the heat simmering there couldn't be counted. An amused expression crossed over his face as he listened to her chirping voice, before morphing into something akin to curiosity. Leaning over her slightly, his eyes locked on hers.

"Why is it that you don't fear me, Marissa Skye?" He asked, voice soft. The mere fact that she wasn't cowering from his show of anger before was beyond him. Even those under his roof believed him a monster, feared his ever short temper and the madness that seemed to haunt his every step. She had seen only a small portion of the demon lurking in the back of his mind, true...but for most, only one glance was required to make them wary of his presence. Yet there she was, such an innocent looking witch, standing so boldly in front of him with an inviting smile on her face. Oh, how he would like to take her up on her offer, strip his coat from her and throw her into his bed. But he had to know why.

...That, and calm himself from the thought of another man touching her. An image of her naked form running through the halls of the fortress flashed into his mind, bringing a surge of heat with it. Heat that quickly became something akin to anger as he imagined the lusting faces of his soldiers as they followed her. Would she be as welcoming to others as she was to him? Was this merely a facade to win his favor? The thoughts were enough to make his hand tighten on the back of her neck, and it was only through his self control that he managed to release her and take a small step back, before he broke her neck right there.

"You will not be chased by any but me," He growled before he could stop himself, covering the distance between them as if the small retreat had never happened. Ever so slowly, his eyes on her face as if to judge her reaction, he let one hand slide under the collar of his coat. He liked the sight of his clothes on her, his scent on her skin. The others would know to keep their distance if she smelled of him...and it would keep the beast at bay. Ever so slowly, he nudged her so that she was forced to walk backwards to accomodate their closeness, and only stopped when they reached the bedroom. Covered in old Russian paintings and sporting a Mongolian feel, it was probably the oddest room in the fortress. A bed of furs lay in the middle of the room, with various chests and tables cluttering the rest. A fire crackled in the hearth and, in the corner, his old suit of armor stood, the worn, cracked leather ravaged by age. Beside it sat a large Catholic icon, stolen from his father's house in his foolish youth.

Before the poor woman could make a sound, he scooped her up in his arms and set her in his bed, looming over her with a mischevious smile on his face. "Are you afraid now, little fire?" He purred. Leaning on his side, he ran a hand along the exposed skin of one leg, outwardly relaxed, while silently, he waited for her to attempt to bolt from the bed.

Marissa


MEOWWWWWWWWW... Swallowing hard, Marissa tilted her head and tried not to show the way his strength DID intimidate her. Only a fool wouldn't be scared of this man in some shape or form. Unfortunately, the attraction she felt was stronger than the fear and it made her daring.

"I don't fear you because I have nothing to fear. Logic tells me that as long as I have something you want at your disposal.. You will not harm me. Not only that but... I think that you feel the same thing I do blazing between us... My mother always told me that my curiosity would get me killed one day but if thats the price of discovering what it is about you that intrigues me... well, no one should take life seriously... No one gets out alive anyways."

As she spoke, his hand crept around her neck and she almost flinched at the pain she felt. Unconciously though, she knew that to show weakness would be to show him he could bully her. Instead, she simply lifted her chin and gave an inward sigh in relief when he let go and stepped away.

It was only for an instant but it was all she needed to register the possessive note in his voice when he spoke of others chasing her. Before she could react to it, however, he was herding her like some sort of sacrifical lamb to an alter and she suddenly found herself in a massive bedroom that was as baffling as it was intriguing. However, before she could really think about it, she was scooped up and deposited in a soft bed of furs with her captive looming over her.

His words made a laugh spring to her lips and her eyes danced wickedly. "Scared? Is this the part where I'm suppose to say yes and pretend to have the vapors? Since I'm already lying down, I don't think fainting would work out real well would it?" she teased with impish glea. "If thats your best shot at terrifying me... Your losing your touch..In fact... I think you better practice on me some more.."

Ok, so yeah.. she knew she was being irreverent but .. The man was intirely to serious. He took being the biggest badass on the block to a whole new level but even big baddies needed some play time. What was that saying her mother always used to say? Oh yeah, "All work and no play makes for a very dull life" or something such as that. This man definitely needed to learn how to play... and not just with his food.

Giving him what she hoped was her best "come hither" look, the pretty blond reached out and played with a lock of his dark hair. Her eyes twinkled with curiosity as she tugged on it gently and teased, "So, is this what you do with all your captives? I'm afraid that i'm not real well versed on whats expected of me now.. You know.. since I'm not going to run away screaming... I'm afraid I'm not real well versed in seduction either... I'll probably make you very sorry for all your efforts."

Corbin:

Well, wasn't she the scholarly little thing? So, it was logic that made her so convinced of his inability to do her harm, was it? On any normal day, he would have taken her up on that challenge and scarred that beautiful body of hers in places that she would never dream could scar? He would take her to that special room in the far end of the compound, where none save himself dared to tread, and show her how much he valued her contributions to his cause. Everything he had, he abused and she would be no different. He would use her up, mine those powers of hers until she was too exhausted to breath, and then discard her with yesterday's scraps. It was the way of his people, the way he had always lived his life...


And yet, there he was, reverently tracing his fingers along the silky smoothness of her thigh, while wondering why anyone would want to mar such perfection. God, what was this net that had been thrown over him? Was it some kind of spell? Normally, the beast would be craving her blood at hearing such a blatant challenge. But...strangely enough, the wolf was silent, practically purring at the closeness of the warm female beneath him. What did this mean and what magics had she wove over him? He would be no one's slave, not now and not every again--
:
He pushed himself back, feeling the telltale signs of the madness descending. When had a woman affected him like this, so quickly, so EASILY? Clenching a fist in the sheets, he closed his eyes, willing himself to grasp onto reality before it slipped away. The monster of his father's bloodline, the family insanity had slowly been growing stronger over these past few decades. The last time he'd taken a woman to his bed, he had woken up with her dismembered head in his hands, remembered staring down at her face, frozen in terror, and feeling the soft squish of bloodied sheets beneath him. The wolf practically snarled at the thought of doing the same to Marissa, and common sense screamed that he leave the room, compose himself, and find her somewhere else to sleep.

But God, there was no way that he could leave that bed, even if he wanted to. Not with her so close, with that maddening scent beneath the earthy musk of his soap. He needed to be close to her, needed to feel her, hear the sounds she made when pleasure drove her to the peak of ecstacy. Would she scream? Would she moan and beg for more? The questions took over and, with help from that bright little voice, he was able to regain his composure. Now, hopefully the little show would not have made her eat those words. He knew what he looked like when the madness came upon him; the tightness of his face, the savage snarl on his lips and the darkness to his eyes. His second had once claimed that it was a miracle that he hadn't killed them all, if only to calm the monster in his mind.

"Do you wish to seduce me then, little fire?" He asked, voice casual, as if he hadn't just been on the brink of killing her. His life was like throwing switches, and he'd learned that, if only ignored emotion, it would evaporate into thin air. "Is that your purpose, then?" As he spoke, he slowly slid to his knees, so that they were braced to either side of her hips. His eyes were on her face as he slowly spread the coat of furs open.

"I wonder, how would you think to achieve that? You think me some barbarian who would fall to his knees at the sight of your smile?" A voice whispered 'yes' in the back of his head, and he shrugged it off. He moved a hand down her front, fingers grazing her skin as he waited for her to twitch; for a sign that this was all indeed a farce. But...none came. Shock was quickly followed by a heat that spread through him, igniting in his gut at the soft sounds she made. There were no more words to be said after that, and the shifter thought, amused, that she had indeed succeeded in her mission to seduce him.

Never before had he felt such sensations when with a woman. Usually, females were used to scratch an itch, with measures always taken to ensure that no offspring were produced. He had enough problems with watching those under him; what complications would a child bring? A SON? His own grandfather, a Genghis in his own right, had been brought down by one of his sons...no, he had too much to achieve, too much to take before he was ready to be set aside. And yet...none of that came to mind, as almost animalistic urges took over and common sense ceased to be heard. She was heaven, soft and sweet in his arms, and the sounds she made would haunt his memory for ages to come. He actually felt the need to be gentle...GENTLE! As if he knew the meaning of the word! But as the night wore on, and his hunger for the strange, mouthy woman seemed to become eternal, he found himself becoming languid, relaxed. Like a little lamb, out to sacrifice...and who couldn't care less.

It was a few hours until dawn, and Corbin lay on his back, fighting to regain a semblance of steady breathing. The fire had long since burned out, but the heat between them had been enough to keep them relatively warm. Instinctively, he drew Marissa into his arms and shoved her under one of the soft furs, now matted and ruffled from the night's exersions. Glancing sideways at her, a lazy smile on his face, the warrior couldn't help but growl, "Little fire...let me assure you; if you ever feel the need to seduce me in the future...do not hesitate."


Marissa:


Ok, so had someone told Marissa that her first time would be with a half wild man on a bed of furs in front of a roaring fire, she would have laughed herself silly. She's always thought herself more the roses and wine sort of girl but this...This was a hundred times more intense and she suddenly found herself uneasy as some switch seemed to flip in her companion and no more glib words would pass her lips. It was as if all her normal aplomb deserted her and she was left bare before him... In more ways than one. The touch of his fingers upon her skin made her moan and the banked fire in his eyes about made her want to scream.

Opening her mouth, she tried, she really did try to force out some sort of speech but then the time for words was gone. Only her senses were needed as he laid seige to her body like the accomplished strategist he was. Thought ceased to exist as she was swept away but his touch. OH YEAH... She could definitely understand what all the fuss was about now. There was nothing sexier than a man in full pursuit of passion and even her innocence was gone before she could even bring herself to worry over the process.

Logically, she knew she couldn't be the only woman he'd ever touched like this but her heart insisted that there was something... Different in this mating. Mating.. Yes, that was the most fitting word for the way their bodies joined and left themboth gasping for air. Rissa felt as if she'd been marked in a way that was more than physical and almost certainly supernatural. Her inner voice shrieked in warning that if she followed the current course, she would never be the same... Never be just plain Marissa Skye again.

Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how one looked at it.. It was already to late. It had been to late the moment Rissa had spied this virile male lording it over his men and looking at her the way the woman inside of her had always wanted to be desired. Amazingly, she knew down deep that this was right on as many, if not more, levels than it was wrong.

The next few hours were spent exploring and stretching in places she didn't know could stretch. By the time they colapsed in a heap, she was to tired to even move. Vaguely, she felt Corbin pull her to him and she snuggled into the warmth the fun gave off. His words made her eye lids flicker and the emerald depths gleamed with sated pleasure and impish laughter. "Oh, so now I have your permission, huh? Does that mean I can finally try out that little belly dancing outfit I bought in Bagdad? I've so been wanting to see if it really has magical power like the woman told me." she said huskily, hiding a yawn behind a delicate hand. "You aren't so bad yourself... Not that I had anyone to compare you to but...."

Curling herself into his side, she rested her blond head on his shoulder and laid a soft hand over his heart. Absently, she again trace a protection ward on his skin as she dropped off into exhausted slumber.


The Next Morning

Waking with a wide yawn, Rissa stirred in the pile of furs and felt her eyelashes flutter. As they opened, she registered the strange surroundings and sat up so quick that that her abused muscles twitched. Blinking rapidly, she suddenly remembered where she was and just why she was laying buck naked in a bed that was entirely to comfy for the fact it was comprised of nothing but furs. She was also very much alone as her companion of the night before was nowhere to be seen. That realization chased the smile that had been creeping on to her face away and a brow furrowed with indignation. Where was that good morning kiss she just KNEW was suppose to follow a night like they’d shared? The man really was a beast.


Jumping out of the bed, the petite witch tapped her foot in disgruntlement. She'd just had the best night of her life and he'd ABANDONED HER? SHE DIDN'T BLOODY WELL THINK SO!!! With a flurry of motion, she searched for something to put on and ended up with a ten times to big shirt that no doubt belonged to Corbin and had it buttoned up in record time. Taking the time to slip into a pair of socks in order to protect her delicate feet since shoes were not even in the realm of possibility, she muttered nasty things under her breath and swore someones head was going to roll for her disappointment.

Heading for the door, she swung it open and stepped out into the hall only to have the guard there snarl at her. Quicker than a wink, she threw a binding spell on him and watched in satisfaction as he dropped to the floor. "I TOLD YOU SCOOBY! I"M NOT YOUR BITCH!" she declared before stepping over him and striding with anger towards the room she'd first been taken to the evening before. Unbeknown to her, she had the look of a recently bedded, well satisfied female who wore only a man's shirt that left her legs bare and her form barely concealed. She also wore the expression of a woman in a temper and as she stepped into the "Thrown room" and was met with snarls, she gave a hiss of her own.

With eyes blazing, she snarled right back at the nearest idiots and showed no fear when they made a move to snarl at her. Summoning a wave of layline energy, she blasted the fools who were stupid enough to start at her with a wave so hot that it sheared their fur. Her anger was so intense that the illusion of helplessness vanished and in its place exposed a witch of some power."Lets get something straight right now, shall we? There is only ONE man here allowed to growl at me and your damned sure not him. Your just a sniveling little beastie who probably wets the bed with nightmares of his master. I am not answerable to you and never will be and if you use that approach with me again it will be the LAST thing you do. Understand sparky?"

Then, without another thought for the idiots, Rissa turned and scowled directly at Corbin. Her expression lost some of its aggression but there was no doubt of her ire when she pointed a finger at him and hissed. "HOW DARE YOU??? DON"T YOU KNOW ITS NOT POLITE TO MAKE A WOMAN SCREAM IN PLEASURE WITH YOUR SUPREMELY MANLY SELF AND THEN LEAVE HER WITHOUT A REPEAT PERFORMANCE IN THE MORNING? I"M QUITE SURE THATS NOT HOW ITS SUPPOSE TO BE DONE, SIR BEAST!

Flouncing towards the "thrown" the blond tapped her foot in a display of temper and turned up her nose at the growling shifters nearby. Her gaze was soulfully for Mr. Big Bad and Agile.


Corbin

The early morning chill was like a balm to his soul, and it was with only half an ear, that Corbin listened to his soldiers. It was some report about the rations, some small squabbling in the ranks, and any future attempts at kidnapping the Celt's female. All of it was a repeat of yesterday, and not even the smell of his guards' fear was enough to rouse him from his dark thoughts. Throughout the reporting, he was focused on that delectable form in his chamber, of her wild mane and silky skin. Of her scent, her taste, how she felt curled around him, and sounded as he drove her to pleasure. He had never been so enthralled, so...enticed by every sound she made, that only exhaustion had forced him to leave her be? He had lay next to her, fallen asleep with her, and woke with her, bodies entwined, her sunshine hair spread out over his chest like a warm blanket. He had felt tenderness, compassion, obsession...all for the first time in his long, complicated life. And, also for the first time...he had run.

While she lay sleeping, a kittenish smile on her face, he had darted from the bed and escaped to the reception chamber where he had first laid eyes on her. He had paced, beaten the walls with his fists and thrown a few guards around; all attempts to get her out of his mind. But, in the end, he could not. All he could do was see that angelic face as the gunney sack was pulled off of her head, hear that once irritating voice and smell sunshine on her skin. He'd turned to the wolf, running through the forests until his side hurt and heart pounded...but nothing had gave him reprieve. She was under his skin...and he didn't know how to handle it.

"My lord, what are your thoughts about our latest plan?" The guard who spoke was young, eager to please his master. "We will surround the cabin and attack at dawn. The two will be tired, perhaps in the middle of mating..."

Ah, mating. He didn't know how to handle the obsession, but that wasn't all. Before she'd curled up at his side, content as a well fed pup, she had muttered those words...those ill fated words. 'Her first time.' God, she had been a virgin, and he had taken her. She wasn't the first who had surrendered herself to him, but never had he felt so...humbled. As if she had given him some kind of gift that he didn't feel he deserved.

"My Lord?" Gah, there was that annoying voice again. Turning his eyes to the guard, who immediately lowered his, he opened his mouth to reply...but was never given the chance. Like a whirlwind, the object of his thoughts came storming into the room. Weres went flying, human bodies instantly shifted to wolves, who were also thrown to the side or burned by invisible fire...and all he could do was recline back on his throne, relaxed and casual, and feel a burst of pride boil up in his chest. She was a magnificent sight to behold, his little witch.

'His little witch.' Good God, perhaps it was not a good idea to keep her in the fortress. She would be the death of him.

As the soldiers around him groaned, growled and surrounded Marissa in a half circle, a low, rumbling sound cut through the room. Slowly, his eyes on her, Corbin rose from the large stone beneath him and turned a feral snarl at the wolves and humans around her. Instantly, they backed off, eyes on the ground, tails tucked to respected bellies. "Leave us," He ordered, and remained silent until they were alone in the room.

It was only then that he used the speed of his kind to come up before her, pulling her hard against him to claim her lips in a hard kiss. "The next time you wish to make a show for my men," He growled against her lips, catching her hair in his fist to angle her head up. "Do it during supper time. I will not apologize for leaving this morning. I...did not want to stay. I would have hurt you, after last night. Being your first in passion." He couldn't have stopped that small glint of satisfaction from lighting up his eyes if he tried. He was her first, her only. The wolf practically howled at the thought, while the man in him cringed in horror.

Marissa

OH hubba hubba... Talk about better than chocolate. The only thing that could get any better than his body against hers was if it was covered in chocolate and she was getting to lick it off. Practically climbing his strong body with agile limbs, she pulled at his hair and let out a growl of her own. "Silly man...You would not hurt me.. You did not last night... I woke to find you gone and I missed you.... I thought I had imagined last night and I had made you up in my head.... Like some sort of fantasy....A wickedly handsome, dangerously sexy fantasy but a fantasy just the same…. I had to see you....To feel you and make sure it wasn’t just that I went to bed after a really bad chocolate binge … I’ve heard that things like that can happen you know…." Oh God, was that really her voice rambling again? SHUT UP, SKYE!

Pulling back and trying to regain some decorum, the petite witch saw that glint in his eye and gave him a poke in the ribs. She'd heard that some men liked when their women came to them innocent and it seemed in his case, that theory was correct. "Not that I was waiting for you to be exact... Don't get it into your head that I'm going to call you lord and master... Although I will bow down to your sexiness…" she said flippantly even as she nibbled at his neck and then stepped away with a resigned sigh. "And did I interrupt something? That was not my intent... I'm afraid my temper gets the best of me at times and I left one of your men in a binding spell outside our door. The fool tried to bar my way and I just couldn't allow that... He might think I was some defenseless woman and try to take me down when your not looking... I hope you aren't to upset with me for my intrusion? I know that you have manly work you need to be doing …." she said, peeking up at him through long golden lashes and emerald eyes.

Looking around the room, the young blond took in the mess his rabble had made and snorted in disgust. Toeing a particularly vile smelling article of clothing away, she sighed and turned back to Corbin. "It must be very hard to find good help these days.... You should be surrounded by a royal court... Not .... pond scum like this.....They have no idea how to properly maintain a stronghold.... Its like tossing pearls before swine..."

[Marissa Skye ☀]

Corbin:

Oh, it was just so irritating how those words seemed to warm him, the mere thought of his presence being pleasing to her making his lips curl up in a smile. He gentled his hold on her hair, fingers absently massaging her scalp. "Little witch, I would never expect you to call me 'lord and master.' Just hearing your voice call out my name as you scream in pleasure is enough, I assure you." Reluctantly, he let her go as she moved back, though his every movement seemed to stalk her as he kept his attention locked on that angelic face. An assassin could show up right then and tap him on the shoulder, and he would do nothing but watch her expressions like a love sick fool.


Love...GOOD GOD, did he just think LOVE? Giving his head a shake, he turned abruptly on his heel, needing to put some distance between them. One day, one night of pleasure; that is all they had. And, if such emotion was becoming his master so quickly, that was all they would have. With a flick of his arm, his coat flew out behind him as he sat down onto his 'throne,' reclining regally as he looked over at her.

Something akin to amusement flickered in his face as he listened to her, watched that disgusted expression appear on her face as she found a particularly soiled garment on the floor. Resting one arm against an outcropping of rock, he tilted his head, eyes flashing in the morning sunlight that leaked in from above. "I am not angry at your intrusion," He said finally, glancing at the door behind her. "I was being bored by the usual reports. It seems that the woman that my men were supposed to capture is a bit more ellusive than any of us thought. As for my 'pond scum' army...are you offering to take the job?"

Leaning forward, he rested his elbows on his knees, eyes never leaving her face. "I am a warlord, Marissa Skye, not a king. I have lived through more battles than your body has seen years of life, and I don't think I'd know how to handle a royal court and all of its trimmings. But...if you think that you could shape up the stronghold, or teach my men some manners..." A feral smile came onto his face as he imagined it; his men bowing down to the fiery temptress as she declared marshall law on their bathing policies. "I would allow it. Is that what you want, little witch? To shape up my swine?"


Marissa:

All right, there were just some challenges a man should not throw at a woman. Marissa was just ACHING to get her hands on those dirty animals and teach them the PROPER way to make a home. Although Corbin kept his own rooms in a clean and ordering fashion, he was forced to walk the rest of the fortress with discarded bones and god knew what other things crunching under his feet. Although she'd only seen parts of the place, she couldn't imagine the rest was any better and the little homebody in her wanted to make it a place of comfort that any man... beast... er... creature would be proud to call home. It was just something her womanly self couldn't resist


However, his easy acquiscence made her wary and she eyed him for a long moment before strolling forward. Had it really been just last night she'd been tossed to her knees before him? Truly, it seemed more like weeks... After all, a kidnapping followed by an unnerving audience followed by almost being lunch for a crew of hungry animals followed by the attempted murder of new captor followed by the most amazing night of her life kind of made it hard to stand on ceremony. It wasn't as if their relationship was that of NORMAL peoples. Wait... back up.. had she REALLY just thought the word RELATIONSHIP?


Oh good lord she was in so much trouble. Someone call the funny farm because she suspected if she ever got back to the real world they would have her locked up quicker than a blink. On second though, who needed the real world? He obviously needed her and when had she ever been needed before? Never, that was when! It wasn't as if she had anyone who would really notice she was gone except for her ass grabbing boss who thought it was FUN to smack her on the rear and make ditzy blond jokes as if she was to stupid to understand them. Just that thought made her growl and she had to shake herself back to the present.

Biting her bottom lip, Rissa locked her gaze on Corbin thoughtfully and sashayed forward. There was a bit of impish glee in her eyes as she lifted her chin and tossed a lock of sunshine behind her back.

"You would let me do that? I somehow sense that you don't think I really will....Or maybe you don't think I can......Care to make this .. interesting?" she teased, a grin playing around the corner of her mouth. "If I win....... You teach me the language you were speaking last night in bed.... I want to know what evil little things your saying when you make love to me..... If YOU win..... you get a favor of your choice...."


Corbin:

In the silence that followed his challenge, Corbin got the distinct feeling that he'd just made a very big mistake. There was an array of emotions that played over her face; surprise, thoughtfulness...ANTICIPATION. Good God, did she actually WANT to take his men to task? The idea had really been just a silly challenge that had popped into his head, in order to get a rise out of the fiesty young woman. He liked to watch the emotions cross over that lovely face; it was like a kaleidoscope, and the aftershocks pleasing. Most were contained when around him, fearing his judgement. Marissa Skye, however...seemed to be the only person around who didn't seem to think he was anything to worry about. It was both a disconcerting and amusing realization.

Watching her just as warily as she seemed to be watching him, he held himself still as she neared, fighting the urge to snatch her into his arms. The easy closeness that he kept feeling unnerved him; made him wonder about spells and treachery. Something told him that he was being foolish, but the habit was hard to break. There was no way that he was being snagged in that mystical net that was the 'mating' of his mother's people. He'd heard the stories, met some who had been so intimately joined...but had never believed it possible for one such as himself. Idly, before he could pull his mind away, he compared the similiarities: the natural easiness he felt around her, the way his wolf seemed to relax at her presence, how he felt that unfamiliar, unnamed pang in his chest whenever he heard her voice or smelled her scent. It was impossible, improbable...and unwelcome. Yes, it was definitely unwelcome.

However, nothing could seem to stop his hand from coming up, once she was close enough, and tugging at the strand of hair she'd just tossed back. Smoothing it between his fingers, he kept his eyes locked on hers. 'I doubt if I could deny you anything,' he thought with a half inner growl, half sigh. He kept silent as he listened to her, feral smile sliding onto his face as she finished.


"Don't you know it's a bad idea to challenge a warlord?" He asked, voice soft. "I accept, little witch. What will you demand as the gauntlet? Battle by the sword?" As he spoke, he circled her, trailing a finger along the curve of her spine. "A game of chase? Or, perhaps, who can make who scream the loudest. I think I would like that one the best."


The mere thought of her naked and writhing beneath him made his body instantly ache. Instead of facing her again, he changed direction until he was facing his throne instead. With a deep breath, he fought for control. "But first, we must pay a visit to the town. I doubt you will get much...respect from my men, dressed as you are. We will leave in the hour." Spinning on his heel, he marched for the hallway that would lead to his chambers, confident that she'd follow.

[Marissa Skye ☀]

All right, so there were times when things just made a girl go "Hmmmm" and this was definitely one of those times. Marissa shifted anxiously as she saw the look in Corbins eye and wondered if she hadn't just bitten off more than she could chew. After all, what exactly did she KNOW about this man besides that he was big, fierce and demanding in every way known to man,or woman for that matter?Not a whole flipping lot, that was what! What did she, Miss Virginal Innocence, know about men and their ways? Well, at least men a girl was sleeping with, anyways. Men on a normal every day basis were easy to figure out but this one was an enigma. She had no idea WHAT to think about him and it was a bit daunting. Daunting but certainly not the sort of challenge her inner woman could resist.

Gulping a bit at his words about screaming, Rissa tilted her head and looked up at him with curious eyes. A curious, almost impish expression snuck into her expression as she bit her bottom lip and then stared at his hunky rear end as he spun on a heel and walked away. So focused on the imaginations his words had brought to mind, that she almost missed his parting shot. Blinking rapidly, she glanced down at her clothing, or lack of, and groaned. No wondered she'd earned so many strange looks. What kind of woman paraded around half naked and assaulted crazy beasts in a mans shirt and socks?

Shaking her head, Rissa hurried after him and poked in the side as she raced by him. Her laughter trailed back as she fairly flew down the halls to his room and to safety.

"Fine!!! But When we get back.... We'll just see who can make the other scream!"


The END