The entire forest seemed to be holding its breath. They stumbled along, tripping over the thick undergrowth. With every step, their heart seemed to break a little more. Josh had taken their punishment, despite seeing what the Master was capable of. They shivered as a chill wind blew through the trees, mournfully singing in the silence. They couldn’t go on, it hurt too much. Even if it killed them, they had to see.
The Master had a hill in his backyard. A stony hill, with sunken hollows that looked eerily like eye sockets. It was on that hill he did his dirtiest work. They had not yet been dragged to the hill, the Master had often taunted them, saying it wasn’t time yet. They shuddered to think what he could do to them, to Josh, on that hill. Their wounds throbbed as they hurried on, unshed tears burning in their eyes, making everything blurry and uncertain.
The sight on the hill made Their heart all but stop. They couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe. The Master was there. His leering eyes shifted around as he caught sight of his former captive.
“Hello, pet. Would you like to see what we’ve been up to?”
They shuffled back, whimpering softly.
“Now come, we wouldn’t want your friend to think you’ve abandoned him, hmm?”
“Leave Them alone…” Josh’s voice was barely above a whisper, so strained with suffering They could barely hear it.
The Master laughed. “Shut it, save your voice for later. You’ll need it to make those pretty screams.”
They couldn’t help it, their feet seemed to move of their own accord. “Please…please…don’t hurt him.” They knew it was no use, but it hurt too much to stay silent.
The Master saw them moving and smiled. He said nothing, stepping aside so they could see the damage.
Josh stood on the hill, bound to a stake in the ground. Blood ran down his face, some dried, some fresh. His chest heaved with every painful breath, straining against the tight ropes. Bruises and welts, as well as deep lacerations, covered his flesh.
They whimpered, trying to hide just how much it killed them to see their savior this way.
The Master caught sight of Their face, regret and sorrow written all over it. “Oh stop with the pity party, this is all your fault after all. If you’d just taken your punishment like a good pet-”
“No!”
All attention returned to Josh, his pained gasps grating Their ears. “It wasn’t your fault! I wanted this.”
“N-no… how could you? You didn’t deserve it.” They cried, wringing their hands.
“I wanted this. I wanted to take your punishment.”
“Why?!” They choked on a sob, scrubbing at their eyes. “Why me?! Why would you do this for me?! I don’t deserve this! All I’ve done is cause problems, I don’t matter to anyone! Why should you pay for my screw-ups?!”
Josh’s eyes softened. “Look at me.”
They lifted their head, staring into his kind eyes. No trace of resentment could be found, only a deep emotion They couldn’t name. “I don’t understand.” They mumbled, letting their tears fall in torrents.
“Because I love you.”
“No-”
“I love you.”
“But-”
“I love you.”
“...”
“I love you. I’ll say it again and again until you understand. I. Love. You.”
“And I love surprises!”
They yelped, cringing away from the Master as he strode forward, slinging around a pistol as though it were a water gun. “This sentiment is boring me. Time to move on.”
“Let him go!” They shouted, running forward. “He’s taken the punishment, please just let him go!”
“Mmm, nah.”
Deep red bloomed from Josh’s chest, soaking his shirt as the bullet ripped through him. He sagged in his bonds, gasping for air as the blood trickled out. They screamed, rushing forward to help, to staunch the bleeding, anything.
The Master chuckled. “Couldn’t let him get in the way of my other plans, now could I?”
They just sat, cradling Josh’s head in Their arms.
The Stranger lifted their head, gently thumbing away the tears. “It’s alright now love, let it all go.”
They sniffled, their face an ugly mixture of snot and blood streaked everywhere. Old wounds cirscrossed their back in a patchwork of welts and bruises. Their clothes hung raggedly off their frame, accentuating the desolation the Stranger found them in.
“I’ll come back for you my love, just wait.” The Stranger whispered. “You won’t belong to him anymore.” His warm hands brushed the harsh collar wrapped about their neck, his eyes growing damp at the torn and reddened skin beneath. “I will take you back, just wait for me.”
They sniffled, nodding heklplessly. How could the Stranger make these promises? They had never belonged to anyone besides the Master. They didn’t deserve to be saved anyways, the Stranger was too clean, too good, too busy for the likes of Them. They would only get in the way, like the useless slave they were.
The harsh voice of the Master grated over the silence, prompting the Stranger to stand. His back stiffened at the voice, though no fear showed on his face. Only a rage within his eyes, deeper than anything They had ever seen. They shrank back, their heart twisting in knots as the Stranger stared into the distance.
An ugly laughed echoed in the clearing. “I see you’ve met my new pet. How do you like them Josh?”
Josh, for that was his name, growled low in his throat. “I will take them back, and you will rue the
day you ever touched them.”
The Master sneered. “I’d like to see you try.”
They shivered, the dark voice tearing at their eardrums. They whimpered, putting their hands over their ears to stop the hideous voice.
“Silence!” The Master hissed. He stomped towards Them, his face growing darker than the night ever could be. He blocked their view, uncoiling the ragged whip that They knew so well.
They curled in on themselves, waiting for the blow that would strip skin from their back. Every second passed in agony, the swishing of the whip in the air, the exerion of the Master’s arm as he drew back his arm. A beat of silence hung in their air.
A harsh cry broke the heavy silence, the wetness in the voice startling Them. They peered up through their crossed arms, their breath catching in Their throat.
Josh knelt on the ground, red blooming across his temple, creating a bloody crown in the dark curls. Another harsh sob escaped his lips, shaking his whole frame. Grunting, he shoved himself upright, facing the Master. “Let them go…now.”
“You’re hardly in the position to be making any bargains, Josh.” The Master stepped around him, shoving the man harshly to the ground. He stood over Them, his eyes lighting up, reflecting hte fear in his captive’s eyes. He kicked out at them, his lips curling in a cruel grin as the whimpers rose from the ground.
“Leave. Them. Alone.” Josh growled, again picking himself up.
“And why should I?” The Master turned to face him, dragging Them up by their collar. “We’ve been having so much fun, they’re almost done.”
“Done?”
“My dear boy, you wouldn’t understand.” The false sympathy dripped from his lips like thick poison.
“Then make me understand.” Josh challenged.
They gasped, choking when the Master yanked on their collar. He couldn’t, he wouldn’t. He didn’t understand what the Master could do.
The Master on the other hand, tilted his head in interest. “And how should we further your understanding, hm?”
“Take me in their place.” Josh’s eyes seemed so full, tears and rage intermingled in a whirling storm.
“What’s to keep me from taking both of you?”
“I’ll come willingly, no tricks. Just let them go.”
They shook their head, begging Josh to look at them. He turned his head, a comforting smile on his face. “Let me take care of it.”
“You can’t! He won’t-”
A sharp slap sent Them sprawling on the ground.
“Hush, the grownups are talking.” The Master stepped forward, chest to chest with Josh. He stood for a moment, sizing up his opponent. “Done!” He lurched forward, wrapping a thick length of rope around Josh’s neck. The Master yanked the man to the ground, kicking him in the ribs for good measure. “Since you seem so fond of my pet, you can take their punishment for talking out of turn!”
They felt the tears falling from their eyes, unable to stop them as their heart overflowed. Every crack of the whip, every whimper of pain from Josh’s lips, every drop of blood spilled, it washed over Them in an overwhelming wave. They started to back away, to run, to be free. They glanced backwards, for one last glance at their rescuer. They wished they could help but… There was no way. They caught a glimpse of Josh’s face, pain watches in every vein, love in every breath. Love that bore the pain They never could have. With a pained cry, They turned and disappeared into the woods.
After a few nights in the refuge room Kai decided it was time to go home. Given she had nowhere else to go, Kai had let Joan stay in his apartment. They’d known each other long enough for Joan to feel safe in his home. Sleeping in a real bed had done wonders for the girl, and Kai would be lying if he said he didn’t feel better having her in a safe home for a change. Unfortunately, work was still a big part of Kai’s life. After a quick hug goodbye he stepped outside into the dreary weather. While the worst of the storms had blown over, the grey air seemed quite content to stay.
It was late when Kai finally ascended the stairs to the apartment. The dim lights shone on a set of muddy footprints leading to the door. Worry bubbled in his stomach as he went to unlock the door, only to discover it was unlocked. Scratch marks around the lock only confirmed his fear as he slipped inside. The lights were off, only the moonlight coming from the window showing the vague shapes of the furniture. A muffled whimper caught his attention. Praying the door woudln’t creak, he gently pushed it open to look into the bedroom.
Inky blackness greeted him as he gazed inside. Squinting, he could just make out the figures of two people. In the heavy silence, the soft whimper could be heard again, this time followed by the harsh sound of a slap. Kai instinctively clapped a hand over his mouth as angry words rose in his throat.
“Knock it off, I ain’t done nothing to ya yet.”
The man’s gravelly voice grated in Kai’s ears as he strained to listen for Joan’s voice again. A few sniffs, but nothing else. With the dim light from outside he could make out her shape against the window. Her arms were pulled above her head, bound together with a rope that ran up into the ceiling. She pulled backwards as much as her bonds would allow, trying to create space between her and her captor. The girl shuddered violently as heavy hands settled on her shoulders, sliding down her body.
Kai’s hand strayed towards the lightswitch, ready to pounce. He froze when the rough voice called out again, breaking the heavy silence.
“Yeah, bring the lads over. She’s not going anywhere.”
Kai bit his lip, every cell in his body wanting to stay, to fight, to do something, anything. But the answering voice on the phone meant more visitors. Visitors he couldn’t deal with on his own. Slipping out of the room, he backed away as he lifted his phone to his ear, calling for help as quietly as possible.
Minutes later, red and blue lights flashed in the window as the man was dragged out. Kai ran inside, flipping on the lightswtich to take in the damage. Teartracks stained Joan’s face, running into the cloth tied around her mouth. Kai gently reached up to undo her wrists, whispering sweet nothings to her in an attempt to calm the girl. Once her hands were free Joan all but collapsed in her rescuer’s arms.
Kai grunted, sitting them both down as he carefully removed the gag. He let his hand linger on her cheek, carefully pushing away some stray hairs.
“You alright darlin?”
Joan nodded, coughing out another sob as she leaned against him. “I’ll be fine.”
“I don’t just want you to be fine darlin, I want you to be alright.” He mumbled, resting his chin on her head. “I’m sorry I didn’t come sooner, if I had known-”
“You couldn’t have known…”
They sat for a moment, waiting for the hubbub outside to die down. When the voices receeded both took a deep breath, as if the air was finally starting to clear.
“Hopefully he’s put away for good.” Kai mumbled.
Joan nodded. “He wasn’t much of an uncle anyways.”
Kai shifted, pulling her to her feet as he stood up. Winding his arm around her waist, he led her to the living room where he pulled them onto the couch. “How about we stay out here for the night eh?”
Joan nodded, slipping her fingers into his hand. “Yeah… that would be nice.” She paused, drawing a shaky breath as she continued. “I’m sorry, I just- I’ve never been so scared…I didn’t think anyone would come…”
“Oh darlin, I’m so sorry. None of this is your fault, alright?”
The duo sat, curled together in a pile of limbs as they comforted one another.
Lil’ drabble I wrote the other day, based on another fic I’ve been working on :)
-Whump
-Mentions of past torture
-A bit sappy, which I have no experience writing lol
Let me know if you want a prequel to this fic :)
Daniel did not bother to stand up, crawling to the crumpled form of Maia. His cold fingers fumbling with the bloody ropes, exposing the torn skin to the chilly air. He fought back tears as Maia’s whimpers of pain reached his ears. “Shh, it’s ok...it’s ok.” He carefully pulled the girl into his lap, cupping her face with one hand. Colorful bruises painted her skin, now paler than ever. Daniel’s fingers trembled as he gently brushed at the dried blood on her face. Maia whimpered, a few tears sliding down her face.
“...what did they do to you?” Daniel mumbled, his own tears beginning to fall.
Maia choked on a sob, throwing her good arm around his shoulders as she hid her face in his shirt. Daniel carefully held her close, breathing in the fact that she still lived.
Minutes later, the duo had shifted to where Daniel leaned against the wall, allowing Maia to rest her head in his lap. Hardly a word was spoken as they sat, Daniel busying himself with untangling Maia’s wild mane. A stray tear escaped every few minutes, though neither one would acknowledge it.
“You know none of this is your fault right?” Daniel mumbled.
Maia sniffed. “It-it kinda is. I should have come with you, I should have-”
“Hey hey it’s ok. It’s ok. You couldn’t have known-”
“I’m not an idiot!” Maia sat up, ignoring the searing pain that filled her. “I know you have some enemies, I didn’t think they would have come here. Or that I would 've been so weak...I’m sorry…”
Daniel gently pulled her into his arms, a few tears of his own running down his face. “No, no it’s not your fault. You’re so strong love, I mean it.”
The chill in the basement seemed to grow, causing the hair on the prisoners’ arms to stand up. Maia relaxed in Daniel’s hold, hiding her face in his shirt to hide from the cold.
“Now, what did they do to you?” He asked, gently touching the bruises on her face.
Maia hid her face, slowly sharing the horrors she had lived through. Daniel’s face grew more and more furious, though he hid his rage whenever the girl looked up at him. He carefully sat her up in order to examine her shoulder, his stomach twisting when he saw how truly out of place it was. Maia looked at the floor, her good arm wrapped around her stomach where the burns were.
“Is there more?” Daniel asked, careful not to push her too far, yet wanting so desperately to help. Maia nodded slowly, removing her hand to show him the burns under her shirt. “Those were the worst,” she confessed, looking into a far corner. “They didn’t even need to do it, they just did because they could.”
She lowered her shirt, turning her focus to Daniel. “Did they hurt you at all?”
He shook his head. “I’m good. I just don’t understand why they have you here, or why they want me.”
“You don’t know them?”
“No. The woman who brought me in seemed familiar, but I honestly don’t know.”
“Oh.” Maia mumbled. “You don’t remember her? Not even a bit?”
“Why do you ask?”
“I was just curious!” Maia argued, becoming more defensive as she pulled away.
Daniel’s eyes widened. “Did-did she say anything to you?”
“She did, but I thought it was all made up. I thought she was just messing with me.” The girl curled in on herself, looking away into the corner.
“Maia, what did she say?” Daniel stayed put, though his fingers itched to take her hand in his again. Maia did not reply, absently tracing a bruise on her wrist.
“Maia. What did she say?”
“It’s no matter.”
“Yes, it does matter. Was it something about me?” Daniel leaned forward, now able to see the slight trembling in her shoulders.
“...”
“It was. Wasn’t it?”
Maia nodded.
Daniel carefully reached for her hand, letting go when she reactively pulled away. “Tell me, please. What did she tell you?”
“Terrible things Daniel, such terrible things.” Maia mumbled. “I didn’t want to believe her, but she wouldn't stop.”
“What did she say? Please Maia, I need to know.”
“Why should I tell you?! I don't even know what to think anymore! I just- I just want to go home…” Choked sobs filled the room as Maia scrubbed at the escaping tears.
“Oh Maia…” Daniel mumbled, “What did she tell you? What could be so terrible that you can’t speak of it?”
Maia sniffled, clenching her hands into fists as she turned to face Daniel. She gazed into the heartbroken eyes of her friend, and all her resolve crumbled. Grasping for his hand haphazardly, she related to him all that Naomi had said about him, everything she had spoken to tarnish her friend.
Daniel kept a strong hold on her hand, even as repressed memories flooded to the surface.
Maia finished her story, still grasping his hand. “It’s true, isn’t it? You did leave her alone, so long ago.”
“Yes. But not by choice. I still don’t remember much, but I know I wouldn’t willingly leave someone…not alone like that.”
“I believe you, but why is she so convinced?”
Daniel sighed, squeezing the girl’s hand carefully. “I don’t know. Trauma does strange things to people. I’m sure there’s much more to her story than we know. But know this,” He turned to face Maia, meeting her bright eyes with his own. “Whatever she told you, no matter how little she made of you, none of it matters. She may have been an old friend, but she was never more than that to me.”
Maia’s breath caught in her throat, a small smile crossing her lips as she stared back.
“You, Maia...you mean so much more to me.”
“How much more?” Maia teased, letting her forehead rest against his.
Daniel chuckled, a reddish tint covering his face. “Infinitely more. There’s not much I wouldn’t do for you.”
Evil fashion deisgner whump? Idk, seemed like a good idea at the time. Not edited.
Dani flexed her wrists, ignoring how the rough ropes burned them. Her skin still stung from the chilly December air, the loss of her coat not helping. A visit to the Christmas Market with Alan had become a nightmare as foreign hands snatched them from the street. She stared across the cell at Alan, frowning at the colorful bruise blooming on his brow.
Alan shot a cheery smile her way, hiding any fears beneath a false sense of bravado. Neither of them had a clue who had taken them, although Dani supposed it could have been worse. A few scrapes and bruises lingered on her bare arms, although most of them were the result of their captor’s hurried actions rather than any true will to harm them. The duo shuffled closer together, their legs touching as they silently offered comfort to the other.
A frightened squeak escaped Dani as the door to their cell flung open. Several armed guards came in, hauling the girl to her feet. Despite her and Alan’s protests she was dragged away, the cries of her lover haunting the halls behind them.
***
Dani scowled from where she sat. Her bonds had been released, although the guards next to her were enough to dissuade any escape attempts. The room she had been moved to was grand, swirling patterns and warm colors blending together in the most pleasant way. Still, the girl felt cold inside. Her mind went only to the dungeon where Alan had been left. She flinched when the door slowly opened.
The woman entered slowly, her weathered face contrasting with the newness of the room. She strode towards Dani, examining the girl silently. Her aged hands grasped Dani’s face, forcing the girl to look upwards. With an approving click of her tongue, she backed away to pronounce her judgement. “She will do nicely.”
“I will do? For what? What do you want with us?” The girl spat out. Her trembling had ceased, anger now rising in her eyes.
The woman smiled a cold smile. “Consider yourself lucky. You will be showing off my newest design tonight at the gala.”
Dani glared back at her. “I don’t understand, and quite frankly I don’t want to.”
The woman laughed. “Oh pet, I don’t care if you do or not. I needed the perfect mannequin for tonight, and you, my dear, will do just fine.” She snapped her fingers towards the servants entering the room. “Get her ready for tonight.”
“And if I refuse?” Retorted Dani, unwilling to let the issue lie.
The woman’s smile faded, her brows drawing together in a dark line. “You don’t want to know.”
She closed the door, ignoring Dani’s angry protests as the preparations began.
***
The woman opened the door to Dani’s room, the darkest of smiles crossing her lips as she gazed upon her masterpiece. Dani had been all but buried in layers of red and gold fabric. Beaded patterns blended with the intricate folds of the dress, complimenting the black feathers trimming the ensemble. Any blemishes were buried in the palest of makeup, reducing Dani to a breathing mannequin.
“It looks lovely, well done.” The servants bowed low, turning to leave. The woman walked up to Dani, ignoring the girl as she fiddled with the fabric. “Yes, I think this will do just splendidly.” A weathered hand shot out, nails digging into Dani’s cheek as the woman yanked the girl’s face to the left, examining how the collar lay on her neck.
“What the heck? Get off of me!” Dani growled, shoving at the woman.
The woman only laughed, grabbing Dani’s chin again. “I’d be careful if I were you, pet.” She hissed, digging her nails in deeper. “It would be such a shame to redo this lovely makeup. Now, I expect you to be on your best behavior. The gala starts soon, and everyone will want to see my work.”
“What’s to stop me?” Dani challenged.
The woman stepped back. “I thought you might say that. A pity really, I’d hoped you’d do better than the last one.” She turned to face the door. “Bring him in.”
Dani’s heart leapt into her throat as the door opened, revealing the most pitiful and yet comforting sight she had seen. Alan, her dearest lover, stood in the doorway. Despite his comforting smile, Dani’s eyes teared up seeing the gun pressed into his temple.
The woman stood between them, resting a predatory hand on Alan’s chest. “As you can see, I’ve taken the trouble to make him presentable for tonight. I’d thought that a couple’s design would do well. However, if you insist on being so difficult,” she paused, letting her cold gaze sink into Dani. “Then I have no trouble disposing of him. I only need you, and I will not be made a fool of tonight.” She smiled, feeling Alan stiffen beneath her hand at the casual mention of his death. “So what will it be?”
Dani swallowed hard, knowing there was no choice at all. “Fine.” She hissed.
“Good girl. Keep this up and you’ll make his life much easier.” The woman turned away. “I am not one to be trifled with. I hope you understand this.” She swept out of the room, disappearing down the long halls as the voices of guests filled the room.
The guards relaxed their hold on Alan, waiting by the door. Dani rushed forward, pausing in front of her boyfriend to examine him. “You look awful.” She mumbled, her voice between a laugh and sob.
Alan reached forward, pulling her into his arms. “Not any worse than you. We make a strange pair, yes?”
Dani smiled, fighting back her tears. “Yeah.” She straightened up, hearing the murmur of voices downstairs. “Shall we go then?”
One of the guards spoke up, impatiently fiddling with his firearm. “Pack it in lovebirds. Madame B will not be kept waiting.”
Alan offered his arm to Dani, saying nothing when she latched onto him for dear life. “Into battle then.” The duo stepped forward, walking down the halls towards the voices. Dani fought the urge to hide behind Alan as they entered the room, feeling all eyes on them in a second. Predatory and judgmental glances came from every direction, the only comfort coming from Alan’s presence beside her. They were ushered onto an elevated pedestal in the center of the room. Neither heard Madame B’s introductory speech, or the cheers raised to her cruel genius. Neither reacted when she turned to face them, face blank as she spat out the terms for the evening, indeed the terms for Alan’s survival. Minutes turned to hours, people milled around, some going as far as touching the intricate clothing when they passed. Still neither spoke, their posture stiff as they maintained what little touch they had on one another. It was going to be a long night.
Let me know what you think of the new ocs/any ideas you have for them!
Raine walked sullenly to the car, trailing behind her aunt. The girl glowered at the ground, her long sweater covering multiple welts and bruises. She’d been stuck with her aunt for ages, and even now, she was still stuck. There was nowhere to go. She had nothing, no money, no home. So she stayed as a literal servant of the cruelest woman alive. Raine couldn’t count the times she’d been injured doing “chores” for her aunt. Chores that were meant for teams of men to do on a farm, not a single girl who’d never been out on the farm. Yet her aunt didn’t care, often beating and berating the girl for the smallest mistakes.
Her aunt was such a prominent figure in that small community, organizing events and donating food (nevermind that Raine would go days without eating) that Raine knew no one would ever believe her. So she suffered, staring grumpily out the window. She had spoken back to her aunt, even though she quickly apologised, still suffering a consequence. The flat fields rolled by as the worn car pulled into the fairgrounds, where dozens of people were already at work setting up the booths and meals.
Raine gave a small wave to her friend Dean, a neighbor who had helped out in the many events her aunt planned. The two were about the same age, and spent a good amount of time together. Raine harbored some feelings for him, though she knew his mind was occupied with other stronger, prettier girls than herself. Still, it was nice to have someone to talk to. Her smile faded as her aunt motioned towards the large stack of lumber needing to be moved. Everyone else at the fair was occupied, leaving no one to even notice the poor girl as she faced the large stack. She glared at her aunt, mumbling a sarcastic remark. Her aunt hissed at her, grasping the girl’s wrists hard enough to leave bruises.
Raine’s eyes welled up with tears as she pulled her sweater to cover the new marks beginning to appear. Beads of sweat trickled down her back in the hot summer air. She worked as quickly as she could, often stumbling as hunger pains and heat bore down on her. The stack of lumber was soon moved to its proper place, no longer marring the fairgrounds, instead being hidden towards the back. The girl kept her hand wrapped in the sweater to avoid dripping blood as a new wound made itself known. Raine went to her aunt, telling her that the job had been completed. Her aunt nodded coolly, as she had been conversing with the mayor of their small town. She waved the girl off, issuing some mundane task to keep Raine busy.
From across the fairground, Dean caught Raine’s eye, asking a question deeper than words. She shook her head slightly, motioning for him to follow her. She raced into the only patch of trees near the fair, where the branches grew so close together that no one could see in. She plopped down on a log, waiting for Dean to appear. He soon did, sitting across from her as he asked the question, the three fateful words that meant more than anything.
“Are you ok?”
Raine shook her head, shooting a furtive glance towards the people outside, unaware of the exchange taking place. She fiddled with the sleeves of her heavy sweater, finally ripping it off. The purples of her wrists faded to the deep reds of cuts and welts. She followed Dean’s eyes as he took in her injuries, the fire in his eyes growing hotter with each second. Raine fought the trembling in her fingers as Dean carefully took her hand, eyeing the recently torn skin on her forefinger.
He stared into her eyes, reading the story of sorrow and pain within. Ever so gently, ever so carefully, his lips brushed over the wound.
A thrill ran through Raine as she sat, her breath caught in her throat. A small smile spread over her lips as a shaky laugh left her.
Dean smiled, drawing her arm closer as he pressed light kisses to each wound, being oh so careful not to aggravate the skin.
Raine flushed a deeper red than she ever had in her life, feeling so exposed and yet so safe under his gaze. Every blemish was visible, and in a way, so was every fear in her heart. Yet he did not push too far, did not ask too much. He only loved, and loved so wholly and gently that the fears of yesterday seemed to melt away.
Gentle hands wiped away the sweat gathering on the girl’s brow, easing her to recline on the ground. Dean offered what little food he had on him, sitting above Raine on the log, blocking her from the sun’s harsh rays. He rested a cool hand on her forehead, while the other was intertwined with her own.
Raine grasped his hand as a lifeline, breathing easily for the first time in a long time.
He groaned, feeling pain in every joint. He bones seemed to creak with pain as he stumbled, crashing to his knees. Tears and blood fell to the ground as he tried to breathe, to stop, anything for the pain to be relieved. Too late, he was hauled to his feet, a rough hand tangled in the back of his shirt. He cried out in pain as one rough tug set him off balance, making him helpless as he was dragged into the unknown.
She heard the cries of pain and ran onwards, even onwards. Though she had no weapon at her side, she could not let him be taken from her. She had searched for so long, she knew she was close. Her heart ached as another whimper rose from the silent hills. Racing up the nearest one, she choked back a sob of pity.
He whimpered again, feeling his body being roughly dragged, with no regard for the pain he was in. The hand in his shirt seemed to grow rougher by the second. He closed his eyes, silently begging for the darkness to take him. His plea was answered, as he slipped into the relief of the darkness.
She ran towards him, and the master who dragged him. Holding her hands out, her lips trembled as she silently pleaded for his return.
The master turned to face her, roughly yanking his prisoner along. He sneered down at her, towering above her as a giant it seemed. Turning to go, he suddenly hurled the limp form of his captive at her, reveling in her shocked expression. He stalked away, searching for other prey.
She gently cradled him in her lap, running her fingers through his hair as she pleaded with him to awaken. She did not wait long, as his breaths grew more even, a sob breaking through. He opened his eyes, staring into her mournful eyes. He tried to smile, to hide his pain, but she knew.
Ever so gently, she drew him close to her in a healing embrace.
Kai had seen her in the halls. The coy smiles, the flirty winks. He’d seen it all. Yet he hadn’t thought much of it. Before the disaster, he’d regarded her as a confident co-worker. She did that to other guys too, right? After the disaster his mind was almost entirely absorbed with Joan, worries and hopeful thoughts entwined. She had noticed. She saw how much his mind wandered. The awkward waves were replaced by glances of recognition, nothing more. Her frustration built still more when she glanced over his shoulder, taken aback by the cheerful texts he sent. She never received such texts. She was never the center of his attention. Soon, that would all change.
It had been too easy really, a small packet of powder and the deed was done, he was out like a light. She liked to work late. Gritting her teeth, she glared at his phone, going off with a cheerful ringtone. “Darlin” was the only contact info displayed, but it was enough. She threw it into the wall, disappointed when it didn’t shatter as she had hoped. Not that it mattered.
Kai barely bit back a whimper when he woke up. His head pounded worse than it had for many a day. He reached up to rub his eyes, only to discover he couldn’t. His hands were tightly bound behind him, already cutting into his skin. Any movement only agitated the skin further. His legs were also bound to the legs of the chair on which he sat. Thankfully, his thick jeans prevented the rope from burning his ankles.
The room he sat in was cold and dim, empty of everything but the light from a nearby window well. Kai held his breath as footsteps clicked closer and closer. The door was flung open, sending a cloud of dust toward the captive.
She stepped in, confident in her every move. She did not speak first, but straddled the captive, relishing in his discomfort. “Kai...it’s been awhile…” She rested her hands on his chest.
Kai felt terror constricting his lungs, her burning touch a stark contrast to the trusting, comforting touch of Joan. Even in his moments of fear, his mind went only to her.
She noticed, grasping his chin tightly in her hand, allowing her long nails to dig into his cheek. “Did you miss me?”
“N-no?” Kai whispered.
She was not pleased, gripping harder until blood pooled underneath her nails, painting Kai’s cheek red. She dragged her hand over his face, allowing the blood to streak across the tanned skin. “Wrong answer, pet.”
Kai fought back tears of fright as she rested a blade near his throat, carelessly playing with his hair all the while. She pressed herself on him, pricking his throat every time he flinched away.
She finally got off of him, dropping her knife carelessly on the ground. From some corner of the room she pulled out an aluminium bat, circling her prey hungrily.
“Let’s play a game, pet. You tell me where you’re little darling is, and I keep you in one piece.”
“Never.”
“Fair enough.” She swung the bat, allowing it to strike Kai square in the ribs. He keeled over, fighting for breath even as the rope cut his wrists still more. His eyes widened as she drew back to strike again.
A dull thud echoed in the room, and she fell to the ground, blood blooming on the back of her head. Joan stood over her, holding a brick in her shaking hands.
Joan did not speak, her eyes and heart too full for words. Sobs broke through as she ran to Kai, wiping his tears away as she struggled to comfort him.
Kai did not remember shedding tears, his mind still reeling, his lungs still aching. He whimpered when the ropes around his wrists finally loosed. He looked to the ceiling, too afraid to see the damage. He hated his weakness, but the mere thought of ruined skin made him sick.
Joan undid the ropes on Kai’s ankles, throwing the remains away. “Can you walk?”
“Mhmm.”
“Ok, then let’s get out of here. We’ll talk later k?”
Kai nodded sadly, following her out.
***
Joan led Kai to the refuge room, as they had fondly dubbed it. It was still deserted, the evening light shining through. Joan sat down on her bed, keeping one hand on Kai’s as she waited for him to speak.
“I-I don’t want them to be like this…” Kai mumbled. Joan stared at him before understanding his meaning. Ever so carefully, she turned his hand until she could see the torn skin on his wrists.
“It shouldn’t scar, at least if we wrap them.”
“Really?”
“I would know.” She mumbled, laying her own scarred wrist next to his.
Kai stared at the two, biting back tears.
“It’s ok, you can cry.” Joan whispered, carefully laying her arm around his shoulders.
“Thank you darlin’, for everything.” Kai whispered, hiding in her embrace.
Kai shot out of bed as a sharp cry echoed through the night. After the wild events of the day, he had taken Joan back to the station. There were quarters for the responders as well as anyone who needed a place to stay. The room was deserted but for himself and Joan, whose bed was all the way across the room.
He cringed as a terrified cry broke through the night again. His heart hurt deep within him, finally driving him to his feet to comfort the girl. Slowly he approached her bed, growing more concerned with each passing step.
Her face was streaked with sweat and tears, though her eyes remained tightly shut. She had drawn her arms tightly around herself, rocking back and forth as she wailed, trapped in the prisons of her own mind.
Kai carefully reached toward her, withdrawing when she cried out again.
“What did I do?! Please, what did I do wrong?! I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’ll do better please, please stop!” Her tears flowed more freely as she screamed.
Throwing caution to the wind, Kai grasped her shoulders, pulling her into his arms. Joan shrieked in fear, though her arms instinctively grasped Kai’s worn t-shirt. Kai rested his head on top of hers, whispering sweet nothings to her, begging her softly to wake up.
The girl woke up with a start, immediately shaking and crying harder as she grasped Kai’s shirt.
“ ey darlin’, you alright?”
“I’m sorry I’m sorry please-”
“Hey, hey, you’re alright darlin.” Kai kissed the top of her head. “Please, please wake up.” He rubbed her back softly. “Ya gotta wake up darlin’, please.” He held her, rocking her back and forth until her panicked gaze once again became focused.
She carefully wrapped her arms around her rescuer, hiding her face in his chest as new tears bloomed in her eyes. “I’m sorry I woke you.”
“It’s alright darlin’, I didn’t mind, really.” He pulled away slightly, staring into her wide eyes. “What was that all about?”
Joan bit her lip, looking down as she flushed red. “It-it was nothing.”
“No darlin’, it was. Whatever it was, it scared ya pretty bad. That ain’t right. If ya don’t wanna tell me that’s fine, but I wanna make sure you’re alright.”
The girl sniffled, fighting the urge to throw herself back into her friend’s arms. “It wasn’t just a nightmare, it was a memory…” She shared her dream, wincing when Kai cringed at the abuse she was still haunted by. Despite herself, she found more tears beading in her eyes in response to the ones in his.
Kai wrapped one of her hands in his own, careful not to agitate the bruised skin on her wrist. His heart ached more with every word, his entire being wanting nothing more than to wrap her safely in his arms, forever and always. He stared into her eyes as she slowed her speaking, her mind still full, yet her lips were hesitant to share. “What else happened?” He asked, hoping against hope that his own heart would be able to take it.
Joan tried a wry smile. “This was part of the nightmare, only a bad fantasy.” She already dreaded the moment the truth would leave her lips. To share some of the most harrowing experiences she had known was bad enough, but to share her deepest fear, the fear that only her subconscious had known, well, she couldn’t bear to see him leave after hearing that. “The dream shifted, they were no longer the ones hurting me…”
Kai nodded encouragingly.
Joan sighed, pleading with her eyes that he understand. “It, it was you who beat me then. You laughed when I cried, you let them break me.”
Kai’s tears finally overflowed at these words. “I swear darlin’, no matter what I won’t hurt ya. You’re safe now.” He pulled her into his embrace, pouring what he could not speak into his embrace.
Joan allowed herself a small smile, snuggling closer as she relished the feeling of safety.
Thunder crashed overhead as the storm continued to rage. Floodwaters had risen, covering the streets in a murky, lethal soup. The skies grew darker still as emergency workers and the national guard rushed into the turmoil. Kai’s heart palpitated against his chest as he set out towards one of the suburban areas. He already knew his orders. He strained to hear over the roaring of the waters, hoping to catch even a whisper for help. He was sent on a recovery mission to find the body of a young woman trapped in her home. At least, that’s what he was told. As grim as the news was, there was some part of him that desperately hoped to find more than a body. Just a chance that maybe this young woman was still alive...somehow. He heard a hoarse cry, as if the user had all but destroyed their voice in calling for help. He turned towards the sound which led him to the hill-houses, built partially under a large hill that was supposed to protect them in theory. As he searched, he recalled his briefing. The station commander had not been optimistic, stating that a young woman, of 18 years, had been left behind during the initial evacuation. Why he did not know, though given how much time had passed, they told Kai it would be a recovery of a body, not a rescue. Kai shook his head, again listening for the panicked voice. Although he tried to stay focused, his thoughts wandered to his dear friend. This situation put her in his mind more than ever. His mind wandered as he tried to imagine why someone so young was left behind. As he neared the bank houses he heard the faint cry for help, followed by an animalistic shriek of pain. His chest grew tight as he rushed onwards. Try as he might, his thoughts only went to his good friend Joan. She had lived in one of the bank houses, though her uncle had informed Kai that she had left, and would probably never return to their hometown. Maybe the age of the girl, too close to Joan’s was what brought her into his mind. He hurried onwards through the pelting rain, drawing close to the address he was told. Even the same address as her’s. Fate could not be more cruel.
Another shriek of fright and pain broke into Kai’s thoughts. Standing on the solid bank, he stared into the murky water, now reaching the third floor of the old houses. Steeling himself, he nodded to his team before being harnessed to climb down the bank. Slowly the young man let himself down towards the old house. The frightened screams grew louder and louder, then suddenly stopped short. Kai’s breath caught in his throat as he hurried onward. The slippery bank proved no match for the rescuer. Carefully he lowered himself into the swirling water as it dragged him near the windows. His harness kept him from being swept away entirely. Grasping the window sill, he stared into the chaotic room. The ceiling had fallen in, and one particularly heavy beam had trapped someone underneath. The water rose higher and higher towards the trapped person, most of their torso seemed to already be submerged. Calling out a warning, Kai smashed the window-glass, letting himself into the messy room. “It’s alright, I’ll get you out.” He called out hopefully. There was a panicked gasp, followed by a low whimper. Reaching the beam, he went to lift it when the trapped woman, for a woman it was, yelped in pain. “I’m sorry, are you alright-” He stopped short, staring into the frightened face before him.
Joan’s terrified eyes stared back at him, her lips parted partway through a scream. Kai shook his head, swallowing his questions for later. “Is it you?” Joan whispered. Kai smiled down at her. “Either that or you’re daydreaming.” His attention was caught by the creaking of the beam. His heart clenched hearing Joan’s frightened whimper. “Hey darlin’ it’s ok, I’m gonna get you out of this.” In the chaos he reverted to the old nickname he had known her by for so long. “It hurts...I cannot move, the beam is digging...into…” Joan’s voice trailed off into a broken sob. Looking down, Kai saw that the beam indeed was pressed against her stomach, and any movement was making it worse. “Don’t worry darlin’, just trust me alright?” Joan nodded, her eyes widening as her chin brushed the murky water, which had not stopped rising. Carefully Kai reached under the beam, bracing himself against the rotting floorboards. Joan’s whimpers seemed to decrease as he lifted the beam from her shaking body. “Can you move at all?” “M-maybe..” Joan whispered. Slowly she eased herself out from under the beam, though the pain in her movements did not escape Kai’s notice. Once she cleared the beam Kai dropped it into the floodwaters. A creaking sound rose above the roaring of the waters as the duo quickly realized that the floor was giving way. “Come ‘ere darlin’.” Kai called, swiftly drawing Joan into his side. She tensed against him as he tugged sharply on his harness, speaking into a rugged walkie talkie. The harness began retracting as the two were slowly pulled from the house.
Moments later, Kai relinquished his hold on Joan as the paramedics showed up. Undoing his harness, he assured any paramedics that he himself was fine. He turned to see a woman caring for Joan, and kindly questioning her about her family’s whereabouts.
“Who are you going to stay with dear? I need a name or a phone number so I can get you somewhere safe.”
Joan’s voice seemed dull and lifeless as she replied. “There is no one, no one at all.”
“I see.” The woman replied, writing something down.
“Shouldn’t I go to the hospital?” Joan asked. Kai’s brow furrowed. She hated hospitals, and was absolutely terrified of them. For the life of him, he could not understand why she would choose to go there.
“I’m sorry dear, but the hospitals are incredibly full, and you’ll be ok.”
Joan sighed. “ I understand, thank you.” She got up and began to walk away as the paramedics left, another group of civilians needing to be checked. Kai walked up to her slowly.
“Hey darlin’.” Kai called. Joan stopped, allowing him to catch up.
“Yes?”
“You alright? You never would go to a ‘ospital if you could help it.”
“I know, I just-never mind.” She turned away.
“Hey, hey, I’m sorry. Why don’t you come with me, and I’ll take you home, or somewhere.”
“... alright.” She whispered.
After he got in his car, Kai began to question her. He didn’t mean to, he knew how traumatic this was, yet there were so many things he wondered. “So...who can I take you to?”
No answer, Joan simply stared out the window.
“C’mon darlin’ you’ve gotta let me help ya. Is there a friend or relative I can drop you off with?”
“There’s no one.” She replied, stone faced.
“What about your uncle? Where is he?”
No answer.
“Joan, I can’t help ya if you don’t talk to me darlin’. Where is ya uncle?”
Joan bit back a sniffle, yet did not speak.
“Please! You have to give me something to work with here!” Kai’s voice filled the small car.
Joan shrunk back into her seat, raw terror filling her eyes, a single tear dripping down her face. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” She whispered rapidly, pressing herself further into her seat.
Kai stared at her, his heart wrenching upon seeing her fear. “Hey, hey, it’s alright.”
A sniffle broke the silence. Kai kept speaking. “I didn’t mean ta scare you darlin’. Please, tell me where your uncle is so we can get you home.”
“Don’t-don’t take me to him...please.” She whispered.
“Why not? Joan-”
“Please!” She cried in terror. “Please don’t take me to him! Leave me here if nothing else, but please…” Her voice trailed off in a torrent of tears.
Kai gently reached over to her, noticing how she flinched when he touched her. “Darlin’, I’m not gonna take you back, but you’ve gotta tell me more, alright?”
“Alright…” She breathed deeply, unsure of how to begin. “I-I never left town.”
“You never left? I never saw you after your uncle said you moved!”
“I know….he, he kept me locked away...Kai-”
“Shh…it’s alright. Keep going.”
“I- I never saw anyone besides his friends...they-they were so terrible...I wanted to die, or something...I couldn’t stay there. Then the flood came, and uncle, he-” Her voice again was interrupted by her sobs. Kai gently laid his arm around her shoulders, another hand brushing away her tears.
Joan caught her breath and continued. “He left me, locked me in the room, with this.” She showed Kai a ring of abused flesh around her ankle. “It was broken, the cuffs I mean, when the ceiling fell in. I’m...scared. I cannot go back, ever.”
“You never will, I’ll make sure of that.” Kai pressed a kiss to her forehead.
