Magpie Scribbles

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless Chapters

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Part 15

Part 16

Part 17

Part 18 - working on it, I swear

I created the image included in this post using Adobe Firefly. I reserve the rights to the image.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 17

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 17. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. This chapter: Physical violence.

After that night, Dani and Kitt ride out the remainer of the week without contact. When Thorin returns to the manor Dani goes to his office to debrief him on guild business that occurred in his absence. She sits across from him at his mahogany desk.

“I hear you had some visitors of the royal type while I was away.” Thorin says, hardly looking at her.

“Yes, it was unexpected. But also an opportunity.” She manages to say plainly.

“Was it? I heard you were getting quite friendly with the king on the patio.” He counters.

Dani rolls her eyes, “And you take that for face value from whoever told you?”

“Well you haven’t exactly been loyal as of late.” He spits, now glaring at her. “I should have ripped your title away as part of your punishment.”

“Go ahead.” She whispers in challenge.

Then he’s on her, hands on the arm rests of the chair she sits in. Towering over her he growls, “You brought everything on yourself!” He pants with anger as he raises his hand and back hands her across her cheek bone. Her head snaps to the side as she does everything she can to control her breathing. Keep her composure. They sit in silence before Thorin stands, straightening his spine as he says, “So what was this opportunity then?” His words still sound angry.

Dani collects herself before responding, “To keep getting close to him. I figured you’ll eventually command something of me. Having his trust will make whatever it is easier.” She gently rubs her cheek.

He smiles at this. “I’ve taught you well it seems.” He pauses. “I’ve been contemplating how to extort something from him. But I haven't landed on what.”

“What about stealing something from him?” She suggests. Thorin’s intrigue perks up at this.

“What did you have in mind?”

“He still has the Plague locked up somewhere in the castle. Imagine the possibilities if we had it.” She says. He voice like velvet as if to entice him.

Thorin’s eyes gleam. “And you think you can get it for me?”

“Yes, I just need time. It’s not just his trust I’m gaining. And I also need to locate it before I make a move.”

“Well, then, what are you waiting for? Go back to your king. And bring me the Plague.” Thorin makes it an official command as Dani watches that predatory smile spread across this face. She gets up to leave, already feeling a bruise blossoming on her cheek.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 16

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 16. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. This chapter: alcohol, mentions of pedophilia, mention of drugs

Note from author: In this chapter Kitt learns about Dani through the stories she tells. We gloss over them here. I'm contemplating writing a 16.5 with her stories. They are all in my head. Thoughts?

Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn arrive at the manor just before sunset, eerily like their first visit. Kitt can't help but wonder what other horrors have happened in this house. What other horrors has Dani endured during her time in the guild?

Kitt raps on the door. Soon enough a girl answers. She has red hair and brown eyes. Beautiful as all the others. Surely lethal in her own right. “Your Majesty.” She greets Kitt with a bow. Her features show she’s surprised by his sudden visit.

“Good evening. I'm here to see Dani…” he trails off waiting for her to tell him her name.

“Breya, Your Majesty.”

Kitt gives her a small smile before asking warmly, “Well, Breya, can you take me to Dani, please?” She hesitates as if she might be breaking a rule before she finally opens the door to let them inside.

They walk through the manor, down a hall that passes the main room where the banquet was held. Kitt feels his blood simmer at the memory of what he witnessed. He can hear pots banging around and lively chatter as Breya walks them towards a kitchen. When suddenly Dani appears in the doorway wearing loose fitted grey pants and a forest green tank top that hugs her torso. She must have sensed them through her Siphon ability. 

Breya freezes and looks like she is in trouble. She begins shyly, “Uh, Dani you have some visitors.”

“Clearly.” Dani says evenly in response. Not harshly but not friendly either. “Thank you, Breya. I'll take it from here.” Dani approaches Kitt. “What are you doing here?” She asks in a hushed voice.

“It feels ridiculous now, but I wanted to know that you were ok.” His voice is just as quiet.

“Well, as you can see.” She says raising her arms and letting them drop to her sides. 

“Yea. I hope I didn't just complicate things.”

“Maybe a little.” She sighs. “But I can weave my way out of any real trouble.” She’s already calculating how she'll frame this visit to Thorin because she knows the assassins she is less friendly with will certainly try to use this against her.

“I can go. Really.” Kitt says with guilt.

“No, you made the trip. Might as well stay for dinner and drinks.” She walks back into the kitchen expecting them to follow. Upon entering the kitchen Kitt counts four others.

“I guess introductions are in order.” Dani says as she points to Rand. “This is Rand. A Gust and my second.” Kitt recognizes him from the first visit. He was commanded to stab Dani. “This is Eddi. She's a Veil.” The girl Dani points to has dark skin, hair, and eyes. She's slender and has a bright smile. Dani moves on to the boy that healed her at the banquet. “This is Ezra, our amazing Healer. And last but not least, Knox.” The man Kitt envied for how he held Dani when they were dancing. As if sensing his jealousy Dani goes on, “Hyper. My dance partner. Shameless flirt but otherwise harmless.”

“Hey! Woah!” Knox exclaims from where he leans on the counter feigning offense. “You know my body count.”

“Yeah. Which one?” Dani asks amused as she picks up a glass and sips. The group laughs at the comment before Dani turns to her three guests to ask, “Drinks?” They all nod and agree as they settle.

Dani pours the drinks. As Eddi hands one to Paedyn she says, “Word from the wise. Sip slowly. Dani likes her drinks like the standards she holds us to.”

“And what are these standards?” Kai asks.

Eddi looks at Kai. “Effective and efficient. One of her drinks will have you in a nice buzz. Two might just have you on your ass. Pace yourself.” Her tone is friendly.

—---

They move out to the patio with their drinks. The others help bring out the food. The intricate fire pit is already blazing as a cool autumn night sets in.

"Hey, Dani" Eddi says. Her voice is low but Kitt hears her. "We need to talk about a potential challenge."

"What challenge?" Kitt asks before thinking better of it.

Dani sighs, clearly not wanting to answer but does anyway as she takes her seat. "Since I wasn't born into my title, anyone in the guild can challenge me for it."

"And what does that mean?" Kitt questions.

Ezra jumps in even though his voice is sheepish. "It means a fight to death."

"What?!" Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn exclaim in unison.

Dani finds it amusing as she swivels in her plush oversized seat, laying her head against the arm rest and dangles her legs over the other. She laughs as she explains, "It has to go formally through Thorin first so until then I'm not wasting my energy worrying about it. Besides, I've been challenged three times and yet here I stand. Well, sit. Lay?" She gestures at her seat. "You get the point."

Kitt finds this disturbing that Dani has had to fight to the death three times. Maybe more he realizes, assuming Thorin is as ruthless as he seems.

“You know” Kai starts as they all find a seat with their drinks, “I've been meaning to ask, what does the tattoo on your neck mean? The double R.” Looking at Dani.

She merely answers, “Red Reapers. Sometimes known as The REDS. Our unit's call sign.” Kai looks confused.

Dani points around the patio, “Rand. R. Eddi, E. Dani, D. And.” She trails off before she finishes. “And Sawyer, S. Coincidental actually.”

“Sawyer?” Paedyn asks.

“We were a unit of four. We lost him a little over a year ago.” Eddi supplies solemnly. She looks towards Dani.

“What is it?” Kitt asks.

“The anniversary of his death wasn't too long ago. I wasn't around for it. I was here.” She says. Saving him. She raises her glass. “To the best of us. To the one who kept hope alive.” The others raise their glasses in a silent toast. Kitt notices Dani drinks deeply, hardly flinches as the alcohol trails down her throat. 

The conversation picks up and Kitt overhears Kai talking with Rand. “Being her second also means being her glorified snack monkey. Have you seen her hangry?” Kai laughs, shaking his head.

“I heard that” Dani shouts to Rand from the other side of the patio, who just shrugs her off with a sarcastic smile before continuing. 

“Thorin will keep her so busy she hardly sits to eat. But she has been like a shield for us in a sense. She can read Thorin better than the rest of us and has helped us steer clear when he's in a mood.”

“You two are close.” Kai observes.

“She's practically the sister I never had.” A sister he was forced to stab to make a point.

Suddenly Knox practically shouts, “Let's play a game.” Kitt see Dani slowly moving towards the door trying to be unnoticed. “Never have I ever!” He shouts as Rand catches Dani at the exit around the waist.

“Oh no you don't.” He pulls Dani close as she fights playfully to break free.

She pleads, “Please let me go. Pleeaase.”

“Nope.” Rand laughs. 

“I don't wanna!” Cries Dani.

“Why?” Asks Paedyn.

“Because she knows she'll get targeted.” Ezra answers with a smile.

Knox hands Dani her glass as he looks to Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn. Dani begrudgingly takes it and drinks as Knox explains, “You see, I am willing to bet Dani is still quite mysterious to the three of you. So, we're going to change that.” Dani just glares at him before rolling her eyes at the situation. 

“The rules are simple. Someone says, ‘never have I ever’ and completes that statement. If you have done the thing they said, you drink. And if you feel like sharing then please do tell the story behind it. I'll start.” Dani grimaces. “Oh don’t worry Dani” he grins. He takes a drink then says, “Never have I ever been to an orgy.” 

Shock washes across Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn as Dani and Knox both drink. “Would you do it again Dani?”

“That's a hard pass.” She says. “The only thought I remember thinking is ‘who does this belong to?’” They all laugh. “Too many limbs for me. And I only went through with it because of whatever pill you handed me in the beginning."

The game continues and Kitt listens to the many, some unhinged, stories Dani tells: drunken nights that even collectively they can't remember, taking out pedophile priests, stiletto guy, and stories involving Sawyer. Dani always seems to smile fondly when she says his name but there is a hint of sadness. He sees how different she is with this group of people compared to how she is around the castle. It’s as if she is used to playing many characters. Kitt can’t help but wonder which is the real Dani. But the people here tonight are like a family in their own way. They’ve suffered together, laughed together, mourned together. Kitt can see that Dani has lived. Really lived. Something he envies. But he reminds himself of the cost she pays.

When the game finally ends and the group settles down, Kitt finds his way to Dani, and sits next to you in an oversized plush seat. Ezra and Knox have turned in for the night. While Kitt and Dani watch Rand and Eddi slow dancing on the other side of the patio to the light music that’s playing. Oblivious to the world around them. 

“They seem close.” Kitt says casually. 

“They are. Well, as close as any of us can be because of, you know.” Referring to the tattoo.

Boldly Kitt slowly asks, “And you and Sawyer?”

Dani answers softly, “We were close.” She pauses. Before saying, “Who better than someone damned to the same fate as you?” Kitt becomes quiet until Dani says, “Don't do that.”

“Do what?” Kitt says lightheartedly.

She looks at him while also trying to not get lost in his deep green eyes as she says, “Get stuck in your head.” She says it like she knows he's thinking about her missing the anniversary of Sawyer’s death. They look back at Rand and Eddi. “Sawyer is dead. I mourned him. And he’s not getting any more dead.” She takes a breath then continues, “I had a chance to save someone from dying too soon and I took it. Those kinds of chances don't come by too often.” It's quiet again. Kitt doesn't know what to do. He worries he’s upset her because he brought up Sawyer. Then suddenly he feels the weight of her head resting on his shoulder and her hand in his. And relief washes over him. He lays his head on top of hers in return. 

“Thank you, Dani. For taking that chance.” He whispers. And she just smiles softly to herself. 

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 15

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 15. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

The very next day when Dani returns from her morning at Thorin’s manor, she delivers some less than pleasant news to Kitt in his study.

“He what?!” Kitt snaps, clearly angry before he evens out his voice. He stands from his desk and walks towards her. “He can't do that.” Dani had just come back to the castle to tell Kitt that Thorin was traveling for a week and as his heir apparent keeping order at the manor fell to her.

“Don’t worry he'll prorate what you would have paid for the week.” Dani sighs. “And with the last clause in the contract you signed, he can.” Her voice is disappointed in the reality of the situation, not at Kitt. But he takes it personally all the same.

“I don't care about the payment,” he says in a near whisper. He almost reaches for her but thinks better of it.

“I know. But I have to go.” Dani reminds him. “Besides I'm basically just babysitting a bunch of homicidal idiots.”

“You say that like it's a common occurrence,” he huffs as he runs a hand through his hair. She just shrugs.

“It kind of is for me. And I've lived with these people for the better part of a decade. I'll be fine.” Her reassurance doesn't seem to land since Kitt's brow is knitted with worry.

He sighs out his frustration as he says, "I guess I don't have a choice.” 

“It’s just a week.” She's not sure if she's telling him this or herself. Maybe both.

—-------

It's day four of Dani not being around and Kitt feels like he's crawling out of his skin. He'd hoped she would keep him updated on how things were going. But he reminded himself she could take care of herself. It's not like they talked about writing to each other. “It's just a week,” Kitt murmurs to himself.

By late afternoon he decides he needs to just see her. But what would it look like for the king to just pop into a manor full of assassins unwarranted, unprovoked. He pulled out his copy of the contract looking for a loophole. But after about fifteen minutes,  he decides he doesn't care. He's the damn king. He stands from his desk and grabs his coat before heading out of the study while telling an Imperial to ready a coach.

It was like Kai had a sixth sense as he ran into Kitt, “And where are you rushing off to,  Your Majesty?”

“Out.”

“Out where?” Kai asks.

“I need to see her. Physically see her to know she's ok.” Kitt’s words are slightly clipped. 

“Kitt. I'm not sure that's a good idea.”

“I really don't care.”

“Well, then I'm coming.” Kitt halts and looks at his brother, the Enforcer, as if his glare would get him to back down from this. Kai doesn't waiver.

“Fine. But we're leaving now.”

“To go where?” Paedyn rounds the corner.

“Kitt wants to go see Dani.” Kai says teasingly. 

“Just to make sure she's ok.” Kitt insists.

“Yea. Right. “ Kai says slowly with a smirk on his face. Kitt throws him a glare.

“Oh, I'm definitely coming, too.” Kitt just huffs at this before continuing towards the main entrance of the castle to meet the coach. But Paedyn dares to grab his arm. “Kitt, wait. Please.”

“What, Paedyn?” He sounds exasperated.

“I know you hate me,” she starts.

“I don’t hate you.” Kitt cuts her off.

“Then stop avoiding me. I've been wanting to talk with you. I want you to know that I never wanted you to feel like I was stealing Kai away.”

Kitt finds it hard to look at her but he says. “This isn't a good time to talk about this.”

“Then when is a good time?” She asks. “Because I can't seem to catch you, Kitt.”

“I don't know. I trusted you Paedyn and you betrayed that!”

“And you put me through trials you didn't think I'd survive!”

“You're right. And since Dani ripped the Plague out of me, I can see how wrong that was. I'm sorry I did all the terrible things that I did. I regret them. But I also can't change them.”

“I know. I just want to start making things better between us and I know it won't happen overnight.” She pauses before continuing, "Look. I love Kai. And I know you do too. And I want you to know that I'm not taking anything from you, Kitt.” He knows she is partially referencing his title at this point. She doesn't want it. Kai has told him as much and he trusts Kai more than anyone. “Please tell me what you need from me to start making this better.”

“Time,” is all he says before he turns away to walk to the coach.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 14

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 14. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

A few days pass. Dani still reports to Thorin as part of the contract Kitt signed. Each time he questions her about her time in the castle. She still trains with the other assassins when she's there and processes the paper work Thorin doesn't want to be bothered with. And while she's at the castle she's been training with Kitt, Kai, Paedyn, and other Imperials, spending her meals with everyone, and enjoying the down time she has.

When night settles, Dani finds she's restless. She doesn't like all of Thorin’s questions. She feels obsessive wanting to know what angle he might be working. So, now she's walking the halls of the castle trying to clear her mind. 

It's late. She should just go to bed. But before she knows it she's approaching Kitt’s study. And the door is cracked open and a light seeps out into the hall. He’s up.

She raps on the door lightly fearing she might be disturbing him. “Come in.” It's hesitant. Of course it is. It's late. Most people are in bed. Dani pushes the door open just enough to inch inside. 

“Am I interrupting?”

“Um, no.” Maybe just his thoughts of her. “You're still up?” She notices he looks perplexed like she did disturb him from his thoughts.

“You look busy. I can go.”

“No!” He says more eagerly than intended. “Stay. Please.” She moves towards him as he starts to fold up a piece of parchment. 

“What’s that?” She asks.

“Nothing.” She’s not convinced. 

“Your face and tense shoulders said differently a moment ago.” She counters. He should know better now. She's been trained to look for the slightest changes in someone's body language. 

“A letter from my father.” He raises the folded paper. “About the true nature of the Plague. I honestly don't know why I still have it.”

“Then get rid of it.” She says. He just stares at the letter. Dani walks up to him still sitting in the chair. “Come on.” She says as she grabs his hand and pulls him. “And bring the letter.” He snatches it before it's out of reach.

“What? Where…?”

“No. No questions. Just come on.” She leads him through the halls, out of the castle, and to the training grounds. Thunder claps in the sky as a storm moves in. When they reach the sparring rings she starts collecting some loose sticks near the edge of the woods. Then he watches as she assembles them into a teepee structure before lighting it with a flame. She sits down and pats the ground next to her. Kitt sits and they watch the fire before them. “Well?” She asks after a moment passes.

“Well, what?” Kitt chuckles.

“Burn the letter.” She says plainly with a small shrug of her shoulder.

“What good would that do?” He asks.

“What good does it do to keep holding onto it?” He contemplates this as he turns the letter over in his hands.

“We could have done this inside you know. A storm is coming in.”

“I needed the fresh air.” He laughs softly at that before going quiet. Like something heavy is weighing on him.

“I was never enough for him.” Kitt says. “I thought I stopped caring what he thought but every time I see this letter, his handwriting, I hear his insults all over again.”

“Burn it. It's an echo of him. Echoes fade in time but not if you keep amplifying them,” she says as she taps the letter with her finger. The quiet stretches between them. He must have felt value in her words because he tosses the parchment into the fire. Dani holds his hand as they watch it burn. Then she lifts his arm to drape it around her as she snuggles into his side. She brings her hand up to cup his face. “Kitt, you are enough. The fact that anyone made you believe otherwise breaks my heart.” She brings his face closer to her and places a kiss on his cheek. 

He straightens at this, his breath catches as he turns his head to face her more directly. They slowly lean in, their foreheads touch. Thunder rumbles but they pay no attention to it. He tilts his head, carefully moving closer. She does the same. He raises his hand and grazes her cheek, feather light. Their lips brush.

Then lightning flashes and the thunder roars as the sky opens up. Rain pours down on them, extinguishing the small fire in front of them. Dani yelps in surprise. Kitt just laughs at her as he lifts a hand to shield them from the downpour. His Hydro ability. “I told you a storm was coming,” he says teasingly. 

She smacks his stomach before saying, “I knew it was coming. I just don't mind getting wet.” She teases back. Suddenly she gets up and runs into the rain. “Gods, I've missed this!!” She shouts with a smile on her face.

“Rain? Weren't there any storms in Dor?” Kitt answers having let go of his shield, now getting thoroughly drenched with Dani.

“Not like this!” She spins with her arms out, her face pointed at the sky. He just watches her. A smile of his own plastered on his face. Then another crash of thunder so loud they both jump. Kitt grabs Dani’s hand, tugging her to follow him back inside.

They stand in the doorway closest to the training grounds dripping wet. 

Dani sighs. Then a visible shiver runs down her body. Her teeth start to chatter. That's when she hears Kitt laugh from behind her. She turns to face him to find he is completely dry. “When did you do that?” She laughs. 

“May I?” He laughs softly.

Dani nods and responds softly, “please.” Kitt raises a hand and suddenly the water is gliding over her skin and clothes towards him. It feels like a caress tugging her to him. A moment later she is completely dry as he flings the water outside.

They watch the storm a little while longer. “So, no storms like this in Dor?” Kitt asks.

“They pass so quickly you're lucky to see two minutes of rain. Thirty minutes later it's dry like it never happened.” Another sound of thunder crashes. “You really need to break away from Ilya, even for a quick trip. All the books and Scholars don't compare to actually experiencing it for yourself. Any kingdom really.”

“That feels impossible.” He says with a hint of frustration. 

“Not as impossible as freeing me.” She says staring blankly in the rain. They continue to watch the rain until Dani tries to break the tension. “So, that little self drying trick. Do you do that, like, after every bath?”

Kitt laughs. “No. Why? Do you imagine me doing that?”

Dani wasn't expecting that kind of response from him. She starts to turn red. “Um, what?! No. Of course, not.” she stammers. Kitt keeps laughing at her and she loves the sound, even if it's at her expense.

“May I walk you to your room?” Kitt asks, as he tries to stifle his laugh.

“Yes. That would be nice.” They shut the doors and head to their respective beds. Although neither of them find sleep as their minds spin on the moment before the heavens opened up.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 13

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 13. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Note: For this chapter - murder, violence, drinking

They arrive back at the castle and Kitt argues with Kai about talking to Dani one on one. But the king wins out. Dani follows Kitt up to the King’s Chambers. Upon entering, Dani walks towards the fireplace. When the door closes Kitt says as he runs a hand through his hair, “Ok, Dani. I really need you to talk to me.”

“Talk to you?” She huffs. “You really are the more reckless Azer brother.” This time it’s a statement not a question. “Why are you getting yourself tangled up in this? I told you to let me go!” Dani snaps.

“Let you go?” Kitt huffs the question as he raises his arms and lets them drop to his sides. “I can't just leave you with that monster knowing that he is hurting you!”

“Oh, he’s not a monster. He’s a damn devil! And I’m just one of his demons to command, as you saw tonight.” She gestures to the tattoo on the back of her neck. 

“Dani. I want to help you. So, I need you to talk. I need to know what I’m facing.” He takes a few steps towards her.

She starts to pace. “Is that why you rented me out like a whore? One that could kill you should Thorin command it by the way!” Dani practically growls. “And you can’t help! No one can.” Her voice is raw as if she’s about the break.

“It’s not like that!” Kitt's voice rises, referring to her comment about being a whore. “It’s a means to an end! Until I can find a true way to free you of him.” He shakes his head. “You won’t even let me try?!” 

She stops her pacing, looks at him, and shouts with tears in her eyes. “No! Because he’s taken too much already!!” Tears start to fall down her cheeks.

“What do you mean?” Kitt asks, his voice quiet now. She doesn’t answer as she tries to turn away. “Dani. Please.” He steps closer and reaches for her hand. He’s surprised when she doesn’t pull away. So, he gives her hand a small squeeze. Then he sees her shoulders shake. One still stained with blood. She’s falling apart right in front of him and it hurts to watch. He pulls her into a hug as she brings a hand to her mouth to stifle the sob. A few minutes pass as she begins to slowly wrap her arms around his middle and hugs back still crying. “Dani, please let me in. What happened to your family? To Declan? How did Thorin get his claws into you?” His voice isn't accusing in the slightest. His words are laced with concern and worry.

Dani begins to pull herself together as she pulls her head back to look up at Kitt. “You better get some wine.” She sniffs. “Plagues knows I’ll need it. We might be here all night.” She takes a deep shaky breath before resting her forehead on his chest.

He dips his head on top of hers in response. “I would clear my schedule indefinitely if that’s what it takes.” She huffs a broken laugh and squeezes him tighter.

_______

Dani and Kitt sit on opposite ends of the couch near the fireplace with an open bottle of wine and two more on standby. It’s only been about ten minutes and Dani’s already on her second glass. They sit facing each other in the quiet before Dani starts, “Once my family settled in Dor we did everything we could to blend in. We never used our powers outside the home, didn’t talk about Elites or Ilya. We thought that was enough to go unnoticed. Until one night I woke to a slam coming from downstairs. I peeked into the hallway and saw Delcan already standing there with his dagger in his hand. So, I grabbed mine. We crept down the stairs hearing the struggle. As we reached the lower floor we saw our father. Dead. His neck snapped.” She takes a breath. “When we looked up we saw a man holding a dagger to our mothers neck as he dragged it across. So much blood came pouring out of her.” 

She glances at Kitt to see him simply watching her, listening from where he sits. “I froze. But Declan charged the three men.” She fiddles with her glass. “It didn’t take much for one of them to run him through.” She widens her eyes while staring at the wine in her glass. “That’s when I snapped. I dropped my dagger, clenched my fists, and screamed. Suddenly all three of them combusted into flames.” She pauses to take a shaky breath, feeling tears threatening to fall. She sees Kitt’s eyes have become glossy. Declan was his friend, too. He knew her parents. She carries on, her voice raw with emotions she hasn’t been able to process. “Once they all fell to the ground, I dropped to Declan’s side. He was fading so quickly. I pulled him into my lap, begging him not to go. Not to leave me. It felt like my other half was dying in my arms.” Hearing Dani’s voice give out at the memory brings up the memory of Kai begging Kitt not to die. He begins to see that he almost condemned Kai to the pain Dani has lived with for almost ten years.

Dani collects her courage to continue. “The flames from the bodies were starting to spread to the house. But all I could do was hold him.” She's crying again. “His last words to me were, ‘run, Dani.’ So, I did. I ran like a coward. I left them. Dead or alive, I left them.” Her tears fall. Voice cracking. 

“You would have died too, if you stayed.” Kitt whispers as he shifts towards her on the couch, choking back his own tears.

“It may have been better than what awaited me.” Dani replies before she continues the story, brushing away her tears. “I ran out the back door as a crash came from along the side of the house. There were more. But I didn’t know how many. I just knew I had to run. Incinerating the three inside drained me. I had no idea where I was running to. I just ran. Until I fell into a ravine. When I hit the bottom I couldn’t bring myself to get up.” Dani shrugs. “I figured I’d see my mother, father, and brother soon enough. But then he came.”

“Thorin?” Kitt questions.

“Thorin” Dani confirms. “He came and took out the two that were chasing me like it was nothing. Then he crouched down in front of me, asked me if I had anywhere to go. I shook my head no. Then he said he could give me home. Keep me safe. That he would take care of me. And I believed him. What was the other option, really? I had just turned eleven.”

Kitt moves even closer to Dani on the couch, practically right next to her. “And for a while he did… take care of me. I had a bed, warm meals, and a roof. I couldn’t ask for more. I’d spent my days watching others around the manor train in hand to hand. Then one day he told me he wanted to train me so I’d never be afraid again like I was the night he found me. I just needed to accept a small tattoo and I’d be a part of his family.” Her voice shifts into anger. “I was young, stupid, and vulnerable. And he took advantage of that. Just like all the others you saw at the manor tonight. Their stories are so similar to mine.” 

She pauses before saying, “that night I thought I was being saved. But in reality I was led into a gilded cage without bars. And now I’m stuck.”

“Can’t you fight him?” Kitt asks. She can hear in his voice it’s a genuine question.

“Not really. He has given us a set of standing commands that never lift. One being that we can never harm him or ourselves. Hell, if I slap him, I feel the blow twice as hard.” She raises her eyebrows as she says, “Can you imagine what killing him would do? Another is that we can't discuss jobs or missions with anyone outside guild members. More recently I’ve been given another standing command.” She pauses and Kitt looks eager to know. “That I will never run away again for any reason, unless otherwise commanded.”

“Dani.” Is all Kitt can say before Dani keeps unloading.

“Oh, but it all gets worse. A few years ago, after I was deemed the heir apparent, what a joke, I happened to go into his office when we wasn't around. I found a journal. It was filled with accounts of how he came upon each of us.” Dani's voice becomes angered again. “He was behind the attack that night. Those were his assassins. He even killed the two chasing me to make me trust him. Sacrificed them to get his hands on me. Because he knew what I was.” Referring to her Siphon ability. “To say I hate or despise him doesn't even begin to cover what I truly feel towards him. I don’t even know if he knows that I know the truth of that night. But it doesn't really matter because I'm powerless to do anything about it.”

The wine loosens more than just her lips a bit as the night goes on. Just a little. She ends up laying on the couch with her legs sprawled across Kitt’s lap as she tells Kitt more about how she was trained. How Thorin would command her and the others to torture each other - serving two purposes. Learn to torture and learn to endure. Kitt clearly sees the similarities between Dani and his very own brother, Kai.

Then Kitt’s curiosity spikes when he asks, “How did you know to come save me?”

She lifts his wine glass to his lips making him sip as she says, “You’ll think I’ve gone mad.” 

He drinks before setting his glass down to say, “Try me. I’ve seen some pretty insane things as of late.” Not only referring to tonight’s events but also Death. Mara.

They both shift to lie down on the couch. Kitt lies partially below Dani, his back angled against the couch as he pulls Dani into his arms, the wine making them both lower their guards.

Gazing up at him, Dani openly shows her disbelief on her face as she begins to say, “Well, Declan.” She lies her head back down. Kitt's eyes grow wide. “Technically, Life. But he appeared to me as an eleven year old Declan. Fair to say a string of curses fell out of me that would make most people blush.” She huffs, “He told me he had a hunch that Death was about the cheat him. Break a rule and nudge a soul towards her. Your soul.”

“But I was already dying, Dani. She didn't need to nudge me.” Dani thinks he's merely playing along.

“I don’t think he cared. A technicality I guess. He mentioned something about a balance that can’t be disturbed. And that he wasn’t ready to let you go.” This causes Kitt to gape slightly. Mara had told him she doesn’t take souls. Rather she collects ones Life lets go. A chill runs down his spine. “And while I’m damning myself as an insane person, when I found you on the floor in Kai’s arms, there was someone else in the room. A woman.” She pauses as if waiting for him to laugh and call her insane. “You must think I’m mad.”

“Mara.” Kitt says. Dani lifts her head to look at him to find him staring at her like if he blinks all this will fade and he’ll find out he really was dead. Or insane himself. 

“Who?” Dani asks.

“Mara. Death told me her name was Mara. Auburn hair, right?” Dani only nods. “Her and… uh Life supposedly hava a difficult relationship.”

“Well Life, Declan, who ever, told me I had to hull ass. So, I packed up what I thought I might need, stole one of Thorin’s horses, and ran.” Kitt finds his chest constricting with something he can’t label. Gratitude. Appreciation. Something else.

“So, you cheated Death.” Kitt says. “She’s going to be pissed.” He laughs as his drunkenness hits him, reaching for his glass anyway.

Dani laughs when she says, “she can get in line. Based on what Life told me I was just rebalancing their little game or whatever.”

It's quiet a moment longer before Dani laughs again. "What so funny?" Kitt asks.

"Just thinking that if we're both crazy at least we have each other." They both laugh at the absurdity of it all.

By early morning, Kitt and Dani have moved to his bed. She's fallen asleep on her side with Kitt laying behind her, chest up against her back, arm around her waist. When he wakes hours later he’s surprised to find it’s the best sleep he’s had in months.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 12

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 12. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. For this chapter: violence, stabbing, enslavement, and blood.

Note: Since the humans of this world made a man-made plague that gave them powers, I'm expanding on this if another layer of magic. Because why not?

Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn arrive at the manor by carriage just before sunset. Quite honestly the only reason Paedyn joined is because she refused to let Kai come without her. The foyer alone is exquisite with high ceilings, intricate crown molding, and marble flooring. They are escorted to the main room towards the back of the manor, which is set up for a banquet. Tables and chairs are along the edge of the room leaving the center empty. Just beyond the room are several massive glass doors lining the back wall that lead to a patio with ample seating and an elaborate fire pit. It’s a small gathering. No more than 20 others are in the room. Are they all a part of the guild? Most appear young. Not much younger or older than Kitt.

Their escort leads them to a man with shoulder dark length hair standing near the glass doors with his back to the room. 

“Sir” the escort says. “Your guests have arrived.” The man turns to face them. 

Kai leans to Kitt and whispers “Silencer.”

As the man turns, Kitt takes in his dark eyes and predatory smile. “Ah, yes, thank you,” he says as he waves the boy off. “It’s wonderful to make your acquaintance, Your Majesty. I’m so glad you accepted my invitation.” He says this with a bow.

“You must be Thorin.” Kitt responds.

“Yes, and I believe you’ve already met my heir apparent, Dani.” Suddenly Dani appears at Thorin’s side having been siphoning a nearby Veil. Kitt and Paedyn flinch at her sudden appearance. But not Kai. He sensed her now that he’s had a chance to get to know her power more.

“Heir?” Kitt questions as he looks at Dani while taking in the wine red dress she wears that seems as if it was made for her. The low-cut neckline framed her collarbones. The sleeves hung off her shoulders while the fitted bodice traced her body's curves before giving way to a skirt that swayed with effortless grace, the hem stopping mid-thigh. The color alone made her bright blue eyes appear to burn, just like her flame. Her make-up made her gaze ever more piercing. Her lips, a subtle shade of pink.

A server brings Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn a glass of champagne and offers horderves as Thorin continues.

“Yes, Dani has been with me for some time now. And she’s proven herself worthy of the title. But I have to say I didn’t know Dani was so well connected.” Thorin says with a grin as if he knows it bothers Kitt. Now, Kitt can’t help but wonder if she was trying to use him for her own advancement, while still reminding himself of Dani’s warning. Do not react. He finds it interesting how small she seems to hold herself in Thorin’s presence, not daring to speak a word. Then, Thorin continues, “Truly, after that revelation I've learned quite a bit more of Dani’s past that I didn't know before.” Something in this man’s tone makes Kitt’s flame thrash under his skin. Thorin turns to Dani abruptly, “Oh, Dani. Please do see that everything remains in order. I’d hate to fall behind schedule for tonight's entertainment.” Dani merely nods and then she is gone. She hardly spares a glance to Kitt, Kai, or Paedyn.

Thorin and Kitt continue with idle conversation and even Kai and Paedyn join from time to time. Until suddenly the light changes. The outer rim of the room darkens, leaving most of the light focused on the center of the room.

Then, several couples saunter onto the dance floor. Dani is in one of the pairings. Her partner is tall and lean, yet appears strong, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Then the music begins and so do the dancers. But the dancing is nothing like what occurs at the balls Kitt is used to attending. No. This dancing is far more sensual. Sexual. 

Dani’s partner pulls her close before pulling her thigh up along his body as he dips her. Upon bringing her back up, they’re off across the dance floor spinning and twirling. The wine-red dress hugging Dani’s body seemed made for movement. Its rich color catches the light with every turn, shifting between deep burgundy and glowing crimson like a glass of red held to the evening sun. Every spin sent the fabric rippling around her legs, the soft folds rising and settling in time with the music. 

At one point, the man spins her out towards Kitt. And in that moment it’s as if time slows. Her gaze finally meets him for the first time since he arrived. Her arm is extended towards him. Finger tips inches away from him before she’s snapped back to her partner and whisked away - time resuming its normal tempo.

“You see, Your Majesty, every person in this room aside from you and your additional guests are my trained assassins. They are well versed in hand-to-hand combat, dance, recon work, torture, blending in with various cultures, seduction.” He draws out this last word. “Whatever is necessary to get the job done, as the job requires.”

The dance comes to an end and everyone applauds. The dancers bow before rejoining the others in the room as regular guests. Everyone mingles but it’s clear Dani is steering clear of Kitt.

“I understand you’ve done business with my father in the past.” Kitt says to Thorin.

“Yes, I have. And happy to do so with you, if that’s what you wish. But first a demonstration!” Thorin declares as he steps into the dance area. This has Kai stiffening on high alert, wondering what a demonstration means. “Dani!” Dani stiffens as she turns away from a conversation with a fellow assassin to face Thorin. “If you please,” Thorin says, gesturing to the floor in front of him. Dani walks to the floor as Thorin turns to Kiit. “Allow me to demonstrate how my assassins remain so obedient.” He turns back to Dani. Kitt can sense the fear in her. His flame thrashes again but he maintains his composure. “Dani, kneel.” Thorin commands. His voice is authoritative. 

“No.” Dani murmurs. Then her breath catches and she cringes. She rolls her neck as if it hurts.

“I said kneel.” Thorin’s voice dropping slightly, becoming more demanding. 

“No.” Dani grinds out. Louder this time. Her breath catches again as she buckles over with her hands on her knees.

“Let's try one last time. Dani, kneel.”

“No.” Pain laces her voice as she chokes on the word and crashes to the floor on her knees as she continues to fight the command. She looks up at Thorin, at Kitt. Kitt sees black veins creeping up her face from the back of her neck. Paedyn audibly gasps. Only when Dani stops fighting do the veins recede, allowing her to catch her breath.

“Rand! Come sit next to Dani and face each other.” Thorin demands. A man about the same age as Dani with brownish red hair and blue eyes steps forward. His hair is buzzed short along the sides and is slightly longer on top. He does as Thorin commands and he and Dani turn to face ine another. “Stab Dani.” Thorin sounds plainly.

“What?!” Paedyn murmurs. But Kitt and Kai merely watch. Doing what Dani told them. Do not react.

Rand hesitates before Dani says in a soft voice, “Rand, it's ok. Do it.” Rand's head shakes slightly which causes his breath to hitch as discomfort washes over him. As pain begins to wash over him. Dani pulls the dagger from Rand’s side, pushes it into his hand, and whispers, “It’s ok. I'll be ok.” 

Dagger in hand, it's clear on Rand's face he doesn't want to hurt Dani. But then he plunges the dagger into her shoulder. She tries to muffle the scream that escapes her throat. Her resistance is if little use. Blood leeches down her shoulder, matching her dress.

“Now twist it.” Thorin commands. 

“Thorin.” Rand whispers. It's a plea. Thorin merely raises his eyebrows in insistence. 

Rand looks back at Dani who's breathing heavily trying to keep some control over herself as she says again, “it's ok.” Tears stain her face. Tears she can't stop from falling as she braces for the pain that will come. Then he twists the dagger buried in her shoulder forcing more blood to gush out. Dani screams, unable to fight it this time.

“You've made your point.” She hears Kitt say as evenly as he can manage. 

Thorin waves his hand as if to end the demonstration. “The power of blood magic.” Thorin mumbles before calling, “Ezra.” Rand pulls the dagger from Dani’s shoulder as she fights another scream. She's shaking from the shock that sets in as she cradles her arm. He then gently guides Dani to the floor, as a boy with messy dark hair and dark eyes kneels beside her. She breathes hard as Ezra reaches for her wound and a moment later it's gone. Her body visibly relaxes. Nothing left behind but the blood that now stains Dani’s skin and dress. “Dani.” Thorin calls her and she stands, still steadying her breath. “Turn.” She turns so her back is facing Thorin and Kitt. “You see, they are bound to me.” Dani pulls her hair aside to reveal a small double R tattoo just below her hairline. “They must obey. They have no choice.” Kitt feels his stomach flip as he tries to process what he's witnessed. This man has taken their free will. How has Dani gotten caught up in this? Kitt wonders.

“I'd like to talk privately about resuming business.” Kitt states.

“Thank you, Dani.” Thorin dismisses her. “Of course. Let's go to my study.” Thorin begins to head out of the main room. Kitt, Kai, and Paedyn follow close behind. Kitt sees the man, Rand, still looking Dani over as if she might still be injuried.

Kai grabs hold of his brother stopping him mid stride and says, “Kitt. What are you thinking?” He grounds out. “I won't leave you alone with this psychopath.” His words are whispered and clipped.

“If Dani is right about not wanting a particular kind of attention from the crown, then he won't hurt me.” Kitt murmurs to him before continuing to follow Thorin down a hall.

Kai clearly hates where this is going. “Thirty minutes. If you're not out of that office in thirty minutes…”

“I know Brother.”

—-----

Kitt settles into Thorin’s office, sitting across from him. Kai and Paedyn wait right outside the door.

“How can I be of assistance to the crown?” Thorin asks, almost bored with the exchange. 

“I want Dani in my service. There are some delicate matters I believe she could help me with.” Kitt declares.

“Well, I can't very well give her up entirely as I'm sure you'll understand. Hence, why I've come all this way to collect her.” Thorin counters as if she's an object, not a person.

Kitt nods slightly. “Of course not. She would still answer your summons. But I want her close. At the castle.” Kitt doesn't back down.

Thorin holds his gaze as if the gears in his mind are turning, looking for an opportunity. “Very well.” He finally agrees. “Let's draft up a contract.” He smiles that predatory smile again Kitt noticed upon arriving. 

The two begin to haggle over a weekly price and conditions for Dani’s time and services. Soon Kitt emerges from Thorin’s study and Kai is at his side in an instant. 

“Let's get Dani. We're leaving.” Kitt says coldly. They walk down the hall leading back to the banquet. Kitt fills Kai in on the basics of the contract he signed with Thorin. Kai fetches Dani and explains she's leaving with them. Kitt watches the confusion flash across her face as she looks towards him. Something like anger is also among her features. But she follows Kai anyway. When they reach Kitt, he attempts to guide Dani out of the room with a hand on her lower back. He feels her flinch under his touch. He hates it. But he just wants to get her out of here. Get her to the castle. Somewhere safe.

They climb into the carriage. Dani and Paedyn sit across from Kitt and Kai. They sit in silence as the carriage travels through the city back towards the castle when Dani finally speaks while she stares out the small window. Her voice is unfeeling and a little broken as she says, “Starting now, do not say anything to me, that you don’t want to risk getting back to Thorin.” Then she whispers, “Compartmentalize.” 

Paedyn attempts to comfort Dani as she begins to whisper her name sympathetically, “Dani.”

But Dani cuts her off. “Don’t. Just don’t.” Her words are clipped as the carriage falls  silent for the remainder of the ride.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 11

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 11. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. 

This is rather short but I know part 12 and 13 will likely be long ones.

Kitt sits in the throne room, surrounded by Kai and the royal advisors. He has already sent his acceptance to the invitation with the intention to learn everything about the ominous Thorin that Dani seemed so afraid to oppose. One advisor attempts to begin the meeting with an update on the kingdom's coffers until Kitt interrupts, “Who is Thorin?” His words are clipped as he scans the advisors around him.

There's a long pause before one of the advisors appointed to manage legal contracts slowly raises his hand. “Thorin is the head of one of the assassin guilds, Your Majesty. Based out of Dor but he does own a manor in the city.”

Kitt presses his lips together forming a thin line before asking, “And has this assassin had any dealings with the crown?” 

Another advisor swallows before responding hesitantly, “Yes, Your Majesty. Your late father, the king, had leveraged Thorin’s services in the past to carry out his will, that is before the Enforcer became skilled enough and old enough to take on that duty.” The advisors and Kitt look over to Kai.

“Some say he's the devil and that he has some strange way to control his assassins to do unspeakable things.” Another says. 

Kai leans over to Kitt to say, “you still want to go through with this?”

“Yes.” Kitt responds plainly, hardly looking at Kai.

Suddenly the doors to the throne room swing open and Dani strides in looking far from pleasant. Everyone turns their gaze towards her. Kitt is relieved to see Dani has been healed. It's as if nothing happened. Not even a scar from the gash near her collar bone.

An advisor stands and begins to reprimand her until Kitt raises his voice to say, “Everyone out. I need five minutes with Ms. Jaxson.” Dani scoffs at the formality. 

The advisors stand in unison and begin to file out as Dani weaves her way towards Kitt. Kai approaches her first. She throws up a hand to wave him off as she stops a couple yards away from Kitt in an attempt to show she’s not a threat.

When the doors close she practically yells at Kitt, “You accepted?!”

“Yes. I did.”

“Then rescind it! You really are the more reckless Azer brother, aren't you?!” She snaps. The dig hits Kitt like a physical slap but he chooses to ignore it.

“No! I should know what threats dwell in my kingdom!” His voice rises but not in anger. It's stern. Like that of a king. Dani throws her arms up and lets them drop to her side as she spins on her heels with a huff. Kitt takes a breath and a few steps towards her. He softens his voice as he says, “Dani, will you please just talk to me? Let me help you.”

Dani stares him down before sighing heavily and dragging her hands over her face in frustration, all while ignoring his plea. “Well, then. For the love of whatever gods you pray to, I can't stress this enough. When you are at the manor, whatever you witness, do not react. Do not show that you care in the slightest. He will use whatever he can against you.”

“What do you mean?” Kai asks, his voice dropping.

“He will expose any weakness.” Dani huffs. “And I can guarantee that when you visit, there will be some show of power.” She shakes her head in disbelief that Kitt accepted the invitation even after she pleaded that he decline.

“Is he a threat to Kitt’s life?” Kitt rolls his eyes at this, hating the feeling of being coddled.

Dani is already making her way out as she answers. “Oh, no.” Practically a scoff. “He doesn't want that kind of attention from the crown. But it will certainly be entertaining.” Kitt and Kai look at each other as if contemplating whether they should go after her. But the advisors are blocking the path. She's already gone.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 10

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 10. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. E.g. for this chapter: sex, masturbation, physical abuse.

Dani and Kitt are in his bed. He's on top of her. Thrusting. His hands are tangled in her hair as he pulls her head back granting him access to her neck and he sucks just beneath her ear as her breath catches in her throat, as she moans. Suddenly his eyes shoot open. A dream. Only a dream. It's not the first. 

Kitt wakes up in his bed alone. He looks down. Clearly Dani has an effect on him even when she isn't in the room. His balls feel heavy like they need a release. Kitt reaches under the covers and grabs the base of his cock. He begins to pump slowly. Quickly, his thoughts return to Dani and his dream. Her moans. Her smooth skin. Her thighs wrapped around him. Her breath on his skin. He strokes faster. He thinks of how it would feel to be buried inside her. Tight. Wet. Warm. He feels a tingling sensation building in his stomach and at the base of his spine. He’s getting close. He hears her voice from his dream moaning his name, almost like a prayer, imagines her fingers combing through his hair, pulling it. The tingling builds. He's almost there. So close. A few more strokes and this body shakes as he cums in his hand and sheets. His head falls back against the pillow. It takes a few moments to regain his breath. Shit. Now he needs new sheets.

When he finally collects himself, he remembers how things ended between them the night before. He doesn't like how their conversation ended. When he's dressed and ready for the day he goes to find some caramel chocolates to leave outside Dani’s door as a peace offering. Something to bridge the divide. At least it's a start. When he stops by the next day he sees the caramels haven't moved. So, he knocks on the door. No answer. No sounds inside. He starts to worry. And then there's that tug inside his chest. It feels like panic. But there's nothing nearby to be the cause. So, he finds Kai and tells him to tell every Imperial that if they see Dani to let him know immediately. 

Kitt knows she can handle herself. She was a decent match against Kai in the sparring ring. Yet, Kitt worries. Something in his gut tells him something is off. It's easy to not see someone around the castle. It's huge. But neither has Kai, Paedyn, or Gail.

It's almost dinner when an Imperial bangs on the door of Kitt’s study. “Come in,” Kitt says.

“You're Majesty.” The Imperial says breathlessly. He must have run here, Kitt thinks. “It’s Dani. She's approaching the castle. She appears to be hurt.” Kitt jumps to his feet and runs past the Imperial, down the corridor, and to the main castle entrance. 

He spots Dani limping through the entrance. She's sporting a black eye, busted lip, and a gash just above her collar bone. Bruises run down her arms making it clear someone grabbed her or held her down. By the looks of her it seems it takes everything she has to remain vertical. Kitt halts mere feet away.

“Who did this to you?” Kitt demands. He steps towards her slowly and reaches to cup her cheek. But she catches his hand and pulls it down. It's as if she doesn’t believe she deserves the kindness, the tenderness of his touch. 

She reaches for her back pocket and hands him what appears to be an invitation. “I'm only here to deliver this.”  He takes the invitation and looks it over.

“Who is Thorin?” He asks.

“No one good,” Dani replies frankly. She sounds broken. “Please, don't accept it,” she says referring to the invitation. There’s a plea in her words. 

“Come with me. I'll have Eli heal you.” Kitt urges Dani with a gentle hand on her back. He wants to keep her safe. 

But she pulls away. “That will only make things worse,” she says, blinking away tears, her voice breaking.

“How can I help then?” Kitt asks. “Tell me how I can help.” His voice sounds desperate. 

“Don’t accept the invitation. And let me go.” She urges again as she continues to back away towards the entrance. “Please,” she whispers. Stunned at her words he does just that. He lets her go. He doesn't know why. But he does.

A little while later, he sits on a bench near the main entry. His elbows rest on his knees, his chin rests on one hand, the other holds the invite he exams.

Kai comes jogging into view. “I heard Dani was spotted. Where is she?”

“Gone,” Kitt simply replies. His voice is distant. “She told me to let her go.” He pauses and Kai just watches his brother. Kitt glances up at Kai. “But I can't. Not if someone is hurting her.”

“Hurting her?” Kai questions. 

“You didn't see her. Someone beat her.” Kitt’s voice starts to rise with anger. “Really beat her, Kai. I'm surprised she was walking. She handed me this.” He holds up the invitation. “And told me not to accept and to let her go. I can't, Kai. I won't.” Kitt’s chest is practically heaving.

Kai grabs Kitt by the shoulders to hold his attention. “Hey, Kitt? Look at me.” Kitt stares into Kais's gaze. “Let's talk about this in the study where we don't need to worry about prying ears. We'll figure this out. Together.”

_______

Kai sits in one of the chairs near the fireplace as Kitt paces the study. He keeps running his hands through his hair. “I want to know everything about this Thorin.” Kitt demands. 

“We can ask the advisors what they know. You're sure nothing in father's letters mentions this guy?” While learning that the late king was not Kai's true father, it's a hard habit to break.

“Yes, I'm sure.”

“Kitt. Maybe you should heed Dani’s plea?” Kai asks. “What if it's a trap?”

Kitt just about explodes. “If Paedyn told you to let her go, would you?!” Kai and Kitt both already know the answer. “And what is the point of being a king if I cant even keep one person safe?!”

“Damn. You care about her.”

“I just want to know she safe.” Kitt starts before Kai jumps back in.

“Oh, no Kitty. You actually care about her.” Kitt swallows hard. He hasn't admitted anything close to caring about Dani out loud. He's not even sure he's capable of truly caring for someone other than Kai. But then again… “Look, Kitt. I know you just as well as I know myself. So, don't deny it.” Kai walks over to Kitt, stopping his pacing. “I want to see you happy. And if Dani makes you happy then I'll do what it takes to help make sure she's safe.”

“Call all the advisors to the throne room first thing in the morning. We'll go from there.” Kai nods before saying goodnight and leaving the study, leaving Kitt with his thoughts. He reaches for his pen and a piece of parchment.

What has Dani gotten herself into? Who is Thorin? Is she a spy? Was this part of a ruse?

He throws the pen down before slamming his fist on the desk. “Fuck!”

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 9

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 9. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Later that night Dani walks into the kitchen five minutes before nine. She likes to pad her time so she's rarely late. But it seems Kitt has already arrived. He’s pulling bowls out of the cabinets when he sees her. “What are we baking tonight?” Dani asks. 

Kitt shrugs, "I don't know. Any preferences?”

“Chocolate.” Dani responds without missing a beat.

Suddenly Kitt seems uneasy. “We can try. But if I'm being honest the last time I tried baking anything it wasn't edible. Eggshells wound up in it.” He thinks briefly to the time he baked with Mara, Death. But he quickly shakes his head. He wants to stay present with Dani. Just like what Kanshin talked about today. Staying in the moment. Not the ‘what if’.

“Don't worry. I got this.” Dani says with full confidence. She starts to rummage through the pantry for the ingredients she'll need for a chocolate lava cake. She moves fluidly, Kitt notices, like a dancing flame.

“I thought you liked honey cakes.” Kitt says. Curiosity strikes his features and knits is brow slightly. 

“I do… like honey cakes. But I love chocolate. Especially caramel chocolates.” Once she has all the ingredients on the counter she gets to work measuring and pouring. Kitt helps along the way at her direction. 

Once the cakes are in the oven they sit down at the table with the mixing bowl. They sit quietly as they scrape at the little batter that's stuck around the edges of the bowl. “So, you know how to bake.” Kitt observes. 

“I know how to do a lot of things.” Dani says as she swipes her finger in the bowl. Kitt can't help but track her finger has she brings it to her mouth and sucks the batter off. Then she pulls her bottom lip in with her teeth to lick the small bit that missed her mouth. Kitt finds himself taking a breath and holding it before he tears his gaze away. Then he realizes she's talking again. “Like I told Kai in the sparring ring today, I dabble.” And that she does. Baking just happens to be a less deadly hobby.

Not too long after the timer dings. They remove the cakes and lets them cool slightly. Dani pulls out a piece of paper and starts writing a note to Gail that's says, Gail. Warm and enjoy. Dani. Kitt grabs the pen, adds his name and writes, No eggshells this time. Promise. Dani chuckles when she reads it before placing the note with the extra cakes from their batch.

They clean up what they didn't get to while the cakes baked. Kitt stoops down beneath one of the counters and pulls out a blanket and says, “I was hoping we could enjoy these outside, while there are still some warm nights?”

Dani feels her cheeks heat but then says as she widens her eyes, “this is starting to feel like a date.”

“It’s not…” he sighs. “You know, I'm starting to think you're a little spit fire. You always seem to have a comeback lined up.” His tone is playful as he shakes his head at her. Heck, the smile on his face practically reaches his eyes.

“Oh, you have no idea.” She says smiling. “Let's go before these cool down too much.”

They quickly get outside to the garden, spread out the blanket, and dig into their cakes. The chocolate flows out as they break open the cakes. After a few bites Kitt says, “Don't tell Gail but this might be a new favorite.”

They both laugh before Dani replies, “Your treasonous secret is safe with me.”

They continue eating to the sounds of crickets in the surrounding gardens. “You really do like it here, in the gardens, don't you?” Dani asks.

“I do.” Kitt says. “I can clear my mind here the most.” Dani just nods. His facial expression turns more troubled.

“What is it?” Dani asks. Kitt shifts to lie down on the blanket. Dani places both their plates to the side before joining him. They're arms touch ever so lightly.

“I keep thinking about the session with Kanshin today. I don’t know if I can stay present. There is so much I want to do for Ilya and that requires me to think of the ‘what ifs’. And to top that off I feel like I'm at a loss now.”

“How so?” Dani asks. Kitt notices her curiosity but then the dark thoughts return. 

“I thought I had it all figured out. A way to even the playing field so no one felt lesser than,” he explains.

“By subjecting the other kingdoms to the Plague.” It’s more of a statement than a question. She learned what had happened from Kai. It’s clear Kitt is a bit stunned that she knows. If she knows then why is she still here lying beside a monster? “My gut tells me that would have only brought more trouble to your door step.”

Kitt blinks. Confused. “How? I would have ruled over it all. Or Kai would have." His voice isn’t biting but cautious. He’s now afraid of what she thinks of him. And that’s the problem: he hardly knows anything that she thinks.

“There will always be someone craving power. Status. Clawing for it. Whether we’re all Elites or not. It would have given the other kingdoms just as much fire power so to speak to fight over who would rule it all. And what if the way to even the playing field is to let Elite abilities die out?” The last part leaves her lips a bit sharp.

Kitt rolls to his side to face Dani, propped up on his elbow. “Why would you think that?” He sounds a bit offended. 

She looks at him as her voice turns stern. “Because we're clearly the unnatural ones. Maybe our bodies were never meant to have this much power. Hell, Kitt a second dose almost killed you! Besides, exposing kingdoms to a plague that alters them is basically biological warfare. It would kill hundreds of thousands. Children, too.” That last piece hits Kitt in a way it hasn’t before. His mind had become too clouded with the plague; it never occurred to him. And he hates that.

“I wanted to be remembered for being great. Better than my father. And I just didn’t want anyone else to feel like I do.” It’s barely a whisper. Dani holds her tongue. Kitt continues, “Alone. Useless. Weak. I always envied Kai for being able to get out of the castle, being able to see our kingdom. Meanwhile, I sat around waiting to be useful.”

Feeling brazen Dani continues, “I know you want to leave a mark on the world and prove you’re better than your father. But what is the point if you feel alone?” She pauses, shifts her gaze to the stars then says, “We also don’t control how history remembers us. Hell, you could erase your father if you really wanted to. So, it really doesn’t matter. From what I’ve experienced so far, very little does.”

The last statement stings Kitt’s chest. He didn’t expect that. “That’s pretty morbid,” Kitt tries a bit of humor. Dani hardly reacts. She just stares up at the stars. “Well, if I’m going to find a better approach at doing any good in this world that will last, I’ll need advisors I can trust. Would you consider being one of them?”

She glances at this, “Me?” she asks with a quizzical look on her face.

“Yes, you.” He pokes her arm. “It’s odd but I find it easy to talk to you. And you clearly won’t tip toe around me.” He smiles at her. He didn’t expect it to be easy to talk to anyone after everything in the past few months. Yet he feels tugged towards her. Why?

“I can’t.” She practically chokes on her words.

“Why not?” Kitt’s voice is a bit alarmed. Dani sits up now and rubs the back of her neck and winces. Kitt notices and sits up as well then asks, “are you ok?”

“I’m fine. Just a neck ache.” Dani lies. But it’s to protect him. He can’t know what she is. What she does. “I can’t because I'm a liability.” Truth. Well, kind of. He’s better off letting me go, she thinks. At this point she can’t look him in the eyes. Those green eyes that feel like a forest she wants to get lost in.

“I don’t understand.” Kitt says with concern. “Are you in trouble? Does it have something to do with not feeling safe?” She laughs internally. Does it ever. “Dani, whatever it is, let me help.”

“I’ll be ok. I really don't want to talk about it.” There’s a long uncomfortable pause before she says, “it’s getting late. I think I’m ready to turn in for the night.” Kitt struggles with her shortness with him but he accepts her desire to call it night. The walk back is awkward. Dani just wants to run and hide after how she ended their conversation. Kitt does his best to not further voice his worry. It’s clear to him that it would only push her away further. They say goodnight near the kitchen before parting ways both feeling more disconnected than ever since Dani returned to Ilya.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 8

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 8. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Kitt knocks on Dani’s door. When she opens the door she's wearing a pair of loose fitted cream colored pants that hug her at the waist paired with a deep blue fitted top that stops an inch or two above the pants. The shirt has a u shaped neckline. Her shoulders are bare. And because of Kitt’s height he can see a decent amount of her chest beneath the top. Not much is left to the imagination in regards to the top half.

Kitt swallows. He doesn’t think Dani notices or maybe she doesn’t care. She surprises him when she smiles and says, “ready?”

“Um, yea,” he manages as he steps aside to give her space to pass through the door and into the hall as he clears his mind.

The walk is short so not much is said. As Kitt and Dani approach the room where they will spend the next hour with Kanshin, Kitt stops mid stride. “What is it?” Dani asks. She worries he's about to back out.

They turn towards each other as Kitt asks, “How much does Kanshin know about you?” Kitt’s question is laced with concern. “Does he know about both your abilities?” He follows up.

"No, actually. He thinks I'm a Blaze and Tele combination.” 

Kitt presses his lips together forming a thin line then says with a small smile, “then I won't say a word.”

“I appreciate that.” Dani says. She reaches for the door handle but Kitt clears his throat. The sound causes her to pause.

“Later tonight, if you're feeling up to it, would you like to meet up in the kitchen? Maybe try baking something?”

“Are you asking me on a date, Kitt Azer?” Dani teases but Kitt seems to miss that detail. The fear quickly becomes clear on Kitt’s face as he tries to back peddle.

“Um. No. I mean just two friends doing something together.” He barely makes it through his words, stumbling painfully, before Dani lays her hand on his arm and says, “I'm just playing, Kitt. Breathe. That sounds fun. What time?”

“Um. Nine o'clock?” Still he sounds nervous. 

“Perfect.” Kitt’s shoulders visibly relax before Dani adds, “two friends. Besides, you're still a married man.” To this Kitt can't help but visibly cringe at the jab. Dani sees this and laughs. Really laughs. And he likes the sound of it. He actually forgot what she sounded like. But now he wants to memorize it, eternalize it. And the way her face lights up. He wouldn't dare look away. He wants to earn another laugh from her. Dani recomposes herself then says, “ok. Come on. Let's go.” She opens the door and they walk in together.

“Afternoon, your Majesty. Dani.” Kanshin says with a welcoming smile. Dani smiles back. He always felt warm and inviting to her.

“Afternoon, Kanshin.” Kitt and Dani each reply. Kanshin gestures to the three large pillows in front of the fireplace that sit in a triangular formation. The one closest to the fireplace seems to be meant for Kanshin. So, Dani and Kitt take the other two.

“I'll just jump right in.” Kanshin voice is soft. Warm. “How have you been feeling recently? Truthfully.” He looks at Kitt with calm eyes.

“Fine.” Kitt simply says.

Kanshin takes a pause before responding. When he does, his response is calm and slow. “If everything was fine, I don't think your Enforcer, your brother, would have sought me out.” Kitt swallows tensely. He’s not sure he likes this feeling of being emotionally dissected.

He takes a moment to collect himself, then says with a little frustration in his voice, “fine. I feel like a burden. Useless.” Kitt's green eyes start to become glossy with tears. He takes a shuttering breath and continues with a shallow breath between each word, “afraid, lost, alone.” 

“All natural emotions,” Kanshin explains. “Emotions no one enjoys feeling.” He turns his attention to Dani. “And Dani, since you're with us I won't leave you out. How have you been feeling?”

Dani was afraid of this. She can't lie either. The Soul in front of her would know. She swallows hard before forcing one word out, “unsafe.”

“Dani,” Kitt starts with a low voice before Dani interjects. “It’s no one's doing, Kitt. No one in the castle has done anything to make me feel that way. I promise.” She sees the concern on his face. And she doesn't like it. Doesn't want to worry him.

Kanshin redirects their focus when he asks Kitt, “Have you ever tried mediation, your Majesty?”

“Could you just call me Kitt in these sessions, please? And no, I haven't. Isn't that just sitting still in the quiet?” Kitt asks. 

Kanshin smiles. “As you wish, Kitt. Mediation is far more than simply sitting still. It's learning to be comfortable with your thoughts.” Kanshin looks to Dani warmly. “Dani is familiar with the concept. She can help explain.” 

Dani looks a little uncomfortable about being put on the spot but she hides it. She thinks back to how Kanshin explained the concept to her when she was only 7 years old. She sounds uncertain as she begins “Um, yea. Pretend that your mind is like the sky and each cloud is a thought. Small are small and fluffy. Others are large and dark. But they pass regardless. Another metaphor is a stream and each piece of debris is the thought. Either way, the point is to see the memory or emotion, acknowledge it, and then let it pass you by.”

“Yes, thank you Dani. And we do this by grounding ourselves in our senses. Our breath, the feeling of our body in the space we're in, the sounds occurring around us. It helps to keep us present and out of the ‘what if’ mindset,” Kanshin adds. Kitt merely nods in acceptance of this explanation. “We will start small today with a five minute meditation. And then we can talk about the experience if you like and go from there.”

“What if I feel nothing?” Kitt sounds worried. He fears he doesn't feel much outside of the negative and depressing feelings. What if I'm broken? Kitt wonders to himself.

“That's ok. Sometimes you will feel very little. And sometimes you will feel overwhelmed. I've seen an array of reactions from people learning to meditate.  But each person I have taught always seems to feel lighter after they've truly given the practice a chance. There's really no wrong way to do it.” Kitt takes a deep breath. The idea that he can't fail relaxes him.

“Ok.” Kitt says. “I guess let's try this.” Dani reaches for one of Kitt’s hands and gives it a squeeze hoping to reassure him. He squeezes back before letting go.

“Let's start by closing your eyes and taking a deep breath. I'll guide you along the way, pointing out sensations to focus on. At any time you feel your mind wanders just gently bring the attention back to your breath.” Kitt immediately feels silly taking a deep audible breath in front of people. But then he hears what he thinks to be Dani doing as Kanshin instructs. So, he tries while reminding himself of what Kanshin has told him. He can't fail at this.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 7

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 7. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

During the sparring scene between Kai and Dani in this chapter, I kept hearing 'No Turning Back' by LAGA in my head. I'm well aware it's an AI generated song. But in my mind it speaks to Dani's character to much referring to her past and how she pushes through more than we know at this point in the story. Enjoy!

Dani runs through the city streets. Her feet beat against the ground. The feeling is, well, grounding. Her lungs burn, pleading for her to stop. But she keeps going. She passes familiar shops along the way. This only makes her run faster as if running from the memories that threaten to come rushing back. She only stops when she reaches the manor she once called home and finally pauses to catch her breath. 

She knows she should keep running. It feels haunting to just stand on the sidewalk looking up at this house. That’s all it is to her now. A house. The place was once where she and Declan spent their days, when they weren’t at the castle while their parents worked. She can almost see a ghost of a memory. The two of them running around the yard. Laughing. They were happy. Then there is a bang and Dani’s attention snaps back to reality. She nearly jumps off the ground as she turns her head towards the sound. It’s a crate being carelessly dropped on the ground at a nearby manor. A delivery. Then she feels a sharp pain shoot up the back of her neck and into her head. She’s been ignoring it for days but it’s getting harder. They’re getting closer. And because of this she’s been more jumpy in the last few days. She’s been on high alert and very aware of her surroundings. Although, it doesn’t seem like anyone has noticed. Dani rubs at her neck before she begins running again.

She makes her way back to the castle grounds and strides into the gardens. As she passes the fountain she sees servants knee deep in the water shoveling out shillings. He’s keeping the promise he told her about. She smiles to herself as she jogs past.

Dani slows her stride as she approaches the training rings. Kitt and Kai are sparing. Not with blades or abilities. Just fists. Paedyn watches from the side. It seems like they've been at it for a while. Both Azer brothers clearly lost their shirts long ago, both slick with sweat. And Dani can't seem to stop tracking Kitt’s movements. He’s definitely put on muscle since they were ten. Kitt lands a punch and Kai’s head whips to the side. As he recovers, he spots Dani.

“Hey, Dani!” Kai calls to her. “Want to join the fun?” Dani shrugs as she makes her way over to the ring. 

“I’m perfectly content to watch.” Dani says as she swipes at the sweat threatening to fall into her eyes.

“Oh, come on. You used to spar with us all the time. Have you stopped since then?” Kai teases. Kitt just shakes his head, almost silently begging his brother to stop.

“No, I dabble,” Dani replies. A humble response when in truth she can be quite deadly. The Azer brothers have no idea just how much she’s improved since sparring with them as kids. 

“Well, choose your weapon.” Kai urges and gestures towards the weapons wrack.

“Kai,” Kitt and Paedyn warn in unison.

“No.” Dani snaps before softening her voice. “It’s ok. Let’s play.” She finishes as she tilts her head ever so slightly. Something shifts in her eyes as they remain on Kai accepting his challenge. For a second, Kai takes note of the sharpness that flashes across Dani’s features. Dani practically saunters over to the weapon’s wrack. She takes her time looking over her options until she settles on a set of twin blades. Lighter than a sword and just as deadly, if wielded properly. The twin swords always felt like a sharp deadly extension of her arms.

Before everything went to absolute shit and she sparred with Declan, Kitt, and Kai, Dani always tried to wield a sword like they did. All three boys were already physically stronger than she. It wasn’t until a few years later that she realized that since she wasn’t like the boys then she wouldn’t fight like the boys.

No, most male fighters easily had 30-50 pounds of solid muscle on her. So, she would adapt. Lean into her own strengths. She was nimble, quick, and never tired easily. So, Dani would always stay just out of her opponents reach, relying on her footwork to dance around them, wearing them down, tiring them out. That is until she spotted a deadly blow. And that’s what she did now as she sparred with Kai.

He attacked. She easily dodged. Dodged so quickly that she had him spinning on his heels more often than we cared for. She would goad him just enough to keep him attacking before she returned to defense to continue this little dance. Of course, she wasn’t going to hurt Kai. She didn’t want to. Along the way they both tossed the twin blades aside in favor of smaller daggers. As they sparred there were a few close calls for each of them. That is until Kai froze with one of his blades near Dani’s throat. He huffed a laugh thinking he won the match. He is the Enforcer after all. It isn’t until Dani nods downwards, carefully, that he sees one of her own blades hovering mere inches from his kidney. A fatal blow, should it land.

Kai’s gaze returns to Dani. “What?” Dani asks innocently. “If I can’t win, I’ll take you with me.” She smiles to emphasize she is teasing. Kai lets a chuckle slip as they both lower their daggers.

“You’ve improved,” Kai says before slowly adding, "tremendously. Want to keep going?”

“Sorry, Brother.” Kitt calls. “I have to steal her away. She and I are meeting with Kanshin in an hour.”

“Yea, and I’d really like to wash the stink off me. Seems rude to subject him to this.” Dani gestures to her sweaty self before turning to head back into the castle.

Walking side by side, Kitt and Dani enjoy the quiet together. Kitt quite likes that he doesn’t feel pressured to fill the void with empty conversation when he’s with Dani. But he eventually breaks the silence when he says, “The closer this session gets the more I want to run from it.”

“Why?” She asks simply.

“I don’t know.” He responds as he shoves his hands in this pockets. He wants to feel better. Wants to feel like himself again even if that isn't quite who he was before his father's death. He's very much still figuring himself out. At the same time he’s just tired. Tired of being fussed over. Tired of feeling useless. Then Kitt adds as he looks at her from the side, "but I’m glad you’re going with me."

“Kanshin won’t bite.” Dani replies looking back at him.

“Promise?” Kitt says as a small smile tugs at his lips. “Promise,” Dani reassures.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 6

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 6. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Kitt sits in his study. It’s late. He still scribbles down his thoughts on parchment. But he finds that his thoughts aren’t as erratic as they once were. Perhaps it was the Plague destroying his mind and sanity more so than he tends to think. He’s not sure. He also isn’t sure of Dani's response to his question in the garden about redemption. Why would she be interested in the answer to his question? Has she too committed horrible acts? Nevertheless, he writes.

She’s practically a stranger. It’s been almost 10 years. She feels different and familiar at the same time. Who is she now? Why did she come back? Did she know I was dying? Why does it feel like she's trying stay distant? Like she's holding back.

Kitt lights a flame in his palm. It still feels like his flame and yet a little different. It feels restless, alive, like it wants to break loose. For a second he feels it thrash before he lets it go out. Maybe that is why she once feared it. Maybe she could help him understand it better. He keeps writing.

Kai told me today that he will track down a Soul rumored to be within the city. Souls are extremely rare. I don’t know that I care or that I even want to meet this Soul, should he find them. What good would it do? Maybe I should stay open to the idea. For Kai.

— — — — — —

Dani spent her morning ensuring her bag is packed and ready in case she needs to make a quick exit. But her thoughts are torn over whether she should run or stay - choosing the latter would potentially cause harm. They will find her. They always do. Between the whispered rumors around the castle and the small exchanges with Kai, Dani has concluded that Kitt is in a far more fragile state than she realized. Not weak. Hurting. Having lost the illusion of his father, wanting to prove himself to be greater, and fearing losing Kai as well, the Plague he so willingly took only seemed to amplify his spiraling feelings until it was out of his control. The Plague is what gave the Ilyans their gifts but it was the raw power of a second dose that tore Kitt apart.

Soon enough Dani’s stomach is growling at her and she realizes it is almost time for lunch. She skipped breakfast, again. So, she sneaks down to the kitchens hoping to snatch something without being noticed. As she approaches the kitchens, she can smell cured meats and the smell of freshly baked bread. Perfect. She’ll discreetly make a sandwich and sneak right back out. Easy.

Wrong.

She barely makes it past the doors when she hears, “Ms. Dani Jaxson! You’ve been in this castle for over a week and you have yet to come say hello!” Gail practically yells at Dani. The shock alone has Dani freezing mid stride.

“Hi, Gail,” Dani says shyly. “It’s been a while.”

“A while!? It’s been ten years, Dani. Ten! Come here. Let me take a look at you.” Gail rounds the counter and holds Dani still by the arms. “No. This won’t due. Sit,” Gail says sternly while shaking her head. Dani obeys without a question. “Let me make you a proper meal!”

“That’s ok. Really, Gail. I’m fine. I can do it.” Dani says timidly.

Gail says, “Absolutely not” as she practically smacks Dani’s hand that reaches for the bread. Dani pulls back her hand quickly. That’s when she hears snickering behind her. She turns. Not to see one Azer brother but two Azer brothers standing in the doorway.

“Oh, you’re in trouble now Dani,” says Kitt with the biggest smile Dani has yet to see on his face since she's returned.

“Oh, Kitty. She’s not in trouble. I just worry.” Then Gail turns her attention back to Dani. “I haven’t seen you for one single meal Ms. Jaxson. Not one. Why is that?”

“Yea, Dani. Why is that?” Kai comments with a smirk. Dani shoots him a glare before turning back to Gail. “I don’t want to be a bother,” Dani says.

“Nonsense!” Gail replies. “You're our guest. Let me take care of that hungry stomach. I heard it growl when you entered the kitchen. It gave you away.” Kai and Kitt both laugh at this. Dani dips her head and shields her face with a hand to hide the smile tugging at her lips.

“Don’t listen to them.” Paedyn Gray enters the kitchen and smacks Kai’s arm before saying hello to Gail and then stands in front of Dani. “We haven’t had a chance to meet properly. I’m Paedyn.”

“Hi, Paedyn,” is all Dani can manage when the thought of Paedyn technically being Kitt’s wife rushes back to her mind, making her cringe inside for reasons she doesn’t understand. But the tension between Kitt and Paedyn doesn’t go unnoticed. With the bit she’s gleaned from the rumors and conversation with Kitt, anyone could see why. It seems a divorce is great for everyone involved.

Everyone gathers around the table as Gail makes sandwiches for the group. They talk idly. An occasional laugh is shared. As the meal concludes Gail says, “It’s so nice to have you back Dani. You were always such a sweet helper to have in the kitchen.”

“I don’t know, Gail. I’m a pretty far cry from the girl you used to know,” Dani replies with a half smile before quickly staring down at her plate. It’s a twisted truth hiding something much darker. But Gail smiles anyway as she says, “well, you’re always welcome here.” Then she squeezes Dani’s shoulder lightly before she begins to collect the plates.

As Dani goes to get up from her chair a hand catches her wrist. Gentle but firm. She turns to a pair of green eyes. “Hey, Dani.” Kitt says before letting her go. “What are you up to today?”

“I don’t know. Reading maybe. Just killing time. I’m actually not sure what to do with myself,” she says.

“Well, that makes two of us.” Kitt rubs the back of his neck. There's that nervous habit.

“Really? I figured you would be busy from sun up to sun down,” Dani replies.

“Kai’s been urging me to take it easy for now and has been handling most of what needs attention. Quite honestly, I hate it. Feeling useless.” There’s a level of anger to his voice. Maybe it’s frustration. But then his voice softens slightly, “Would you want to hang out for a while? Kill time together?”

With a smile she fights to hold back Dani nods. Together they walk out of the kitchen.

— — — — —

Kai walks into the main entrance of the castle with an older man at this side. He leads the man up towards Kitt’s study. When he arrives at the door, he knocks. “Come in,” he hears Kitt say. Kai and the older man walk-in. The older man looks around the room until his eyes land on Dani.

“Dani?” the man says not believing his eyes. Dani lowers the book she is reading and looks where the voice came from.

“Kanshin?” Dani’s eyes go wide. She slowly rises from her seat.

“You two know each other?” Kitt asks curiously. 

Breathing out a laugh Dani happily says, “yes, um, he was my instructor before I… you know, left.” She approaches the man who holds his arms open as she embraces him with a firm hug. She says as she pulls away, “he coached me to harness my flame instead of fearing it.” She doesn’t mention her Siphon ability. No, Kanshin wasn’t aware of that gift. But the lessons he taught her about acknowledging her fear and preventing it from controlling her increased her control of both gifts.

“It’s been too long, Dani.” Kanshin smiles as he gently places his hands on her shoulders. Then he turns his attention to Kitt. ”Your Majesty.” He says with a bow. “It’s an honor.”

Kitt rises. Donning the appearance of a gracious ruler, Kitt says, “Kanshin, I can assure you, the honor is mine.” Even though he has schooled his features, Dani senses Kitt has been dreading this encounter. He extends his hand for a shake and Kanshin accepts it without a second thought. “Dani’s obvious satisfaction of your guidance reassures me that I’ll be learning quite a lot from you.” He turns to Dani, “maybe you can accompany me during my first few sessions.” His tone carries a fear of rejection. But Dani accepts with a small smile and a nod.

It’s true. The Soul, Kanshin, helped Dani understand what triggered her fears. Her fear of losing control. Fear of hurting someone. Fear of being feared and rejected by those she cared about. She feels confident that Kanshin may be able to help Kitt, too. While Dani is happy to see a spark of hope in Kitt’s eyes. She also dreads the inevitable truth. She’ll be departing soon. And he will need to carry on without her.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 5

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 5. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Kitt walks through the castle halls. It’s been a few days since Dani revealed what she truly was and he hasn’t seen much of her since. He could understand why her parents feared for her and ran. He had been wrapped up with the Healers poking and prodding him trying to understand how Dani did what she did. Naturally, Kitt declared everyone in the castle be sworn to secrecy about Dani’s power, for the time being. He wondered how she was doing. He couldn't help but worry that he wasn’t worth the risk she endured to save him - trying something she hadn’t before. It could have hurt her. And for what? A monster, he thinks.

Aside from being caught up with the Healers, Kitt hadn’t seen Dani at any of the meals Gail has served. He made it clear to Dani that she could roam the castle. She was his guest after all (not to mention the one who pulled him away from Death). 

Death. Dani cheated Death. That can’t be good. Does Dani even know what she's done? Kitt wonders. He doesn't remember every exchange he had with Death while he was dying, but he remembers angering her. He shakes his head of the thought knowing he’ll think more on it later.

Eventually, Kitt found his way to the door that led to the room Dani was staying in. He raises a fist to knock but freezes. What was he going to say? Before he could think better of it the door opens and there stands Dani. The two stand in the doorway before Dani finally breaks the silence.

“I could sense you coming,” she says simply. “I hope that didn’t sound more weird than it felt coming out of my mouth.” She blushes, slightly embarrassed.

“No, I’m used to that with Kai. I guess I need to get used to that with you, too,” Kitt offers a small smile. Dani smiles but inside she thinks that Kitt won’t need to get used to anything because she’ll be gone before he knows it. But she steps aside to let Kitt in. He walks past her and notices she smells of lemongrass and honey. “How are you feeling?” Kitt finally manages as he takes in the space. Of course, it's quite bare, offering nothing for him to take in that would tell him more about Dani. Kitt finds he's disappointed. But why? She's been here about week, not years.

“Better.” Dani says. “A little stiff but otherwise good. And you?” She leaves the door open so no one gets any ideas if they saw him enter.

“Same. A little stiff.” He pauses, then hesitates. “Are you sure? I haven’t seen you at any of the group meals. I was starting to worry.”

Dani feels a slight blush forming on her cheeks. She’s not sure why. Maybe it’s because she hasn’t felt as though anyone has truly cared for her well-being in a long time. “Um, yea. I didn’t want to cause more of a fuss. A Siphon tends to make people feel uneasy. But I’ve been sneaking into the kitchens every now and then. Dodging Gail in the process.” 

Kitt manages a chuckle before saying sincerely, “She would love to see you. Gail, that is.” He trails off.

“I don’t know. It’s been so long.” A long silence stretches between them. 

Then suddenly Kitt asks as he rubs the back of his neck. A fidgety habit Dani almost forgot he had. "You want to get out of here? Go for a walk, maybe in the garden? Just get some fresh air?”

Dani ponders before answering with a small smile, “Sure. That sounds nice.”

When they arrive at the gardens Kitt remembers that many of the flowers are dying. Autumn is approaching. Winter won’t be far behind. But the sun is shining bouncy off Dani’s golden blonde hair. There's a touch of red almost making her a strawberry blonde, as if she's been kissed by a flame, Kitt thinks. She has blue eyes though they are not grey like Kai's. Nor are the a deep blue like Paedyn's. They are somewhere in between. Maybe turquoise. As if sensing him staring at her, Dani asks, “So, aside from becoming king and almost dying from the plague, what else is new in your world?”

Kitt let’s loose a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “Too much,” he finally admits, his tone sad. He runs a hand through his hair nervously. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes recently. Some, unspeakable,” he says. There's a touch of sadness lingering in his voice. He can’t seem to make eye contact with her. But then his tone shifts as he says, “I got married.”

Dani tries to school her features as she echos, “Married? Ok. Congratulations? You don't sound incredibly happy.” She smiles slightly even though she feels a tugging in her chest at the news. It shouldn’t matter. She won’t be here long. It’s not like she can afford to get attached. 

They stop at the fountain. Kitt continues before he can stop himself, “Because I'm not happy. Her name is Paedyn. She’s in love with my brother. And he loves her. But that’s ok because just yesterday I learned she’s also my half sister. I will spare you the details." And the details of Death he thinks. "But I’m definitely devorcing her. Oh, and she also killed my father. I’ve learned how terrible he is. It’s left me wondering why I ever tried so hard to impress him.” He hangs his head when he finishes.

Dani nods slowly as she takes it all in then finally says, “So, a lot has happened. Got it.” Her tone is gentle - not making light of all he’s recently experienced.

“Yea. And as much as I want to blame the Plague for my actions I can’t help but wonder if I’m no better than he was. Worse even.” Kitt struggles to say the last bit. “I just wanted to be more than him. Better than him.” His voice breaks. “I don’t want to be a monster.” He whispers.

Dani can understand this last desire.

“You are,” Dani declares without a waiver. Kitt finally looks up to meet her gaze terrified at her words. “Oh, no. I meamt yoy are better than him,” she clarifies. She continues slowly. “My parents, grown adults, ran from him because of his hate for anything that didn’t fit his perfect Elite society. You might not have had the option to run but that alone is why I see strength in you, Kitt. You were a child that kept his heart kind in the face of so much hate.” She pauses before continuing. “All too easily I’ve seen people let fear poison them. Fill their hearts with hate." She is no exception. "You have not only endured him but you kept your heart open, kind, loving. At least the version I knew way back when did.” Referring to the near decade she’s missed. “That takes not just strength but courage, too.”

A long silence passes between them as they both stand still watching the fountain. “You know, once I promised to distribute the coins in this fountain to those struggling in the Slums,” Kitt says.

“Why haven’t you?” Dani asks.

“I don’t know," Kitt responds distantly as if he's lost in thought. They stay quiet for a bit longer. Dani doesn't mind. She appreciates the calm of this moment. She hasn't had many like this in, well, too long.

Looking at Dani from the corner of his eye Kitt asks, “Do you think someone who’s done so much bad in the world can be redeemed?”

“I don’t know. But if you find the answer, can you tell me?" She pauses then says, "in the meantime, keeping a promise seems like a good place to start,” Dani says as she glances back at Kitt and then back to the coins in the fountain.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 4

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 4. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Part 4 is a bit long. Sorry. It felt necessary to get all this detail down.

“A siphon?” Kai repeats back to Dani.

Dani stares blankly at him before saying, “yup.”

Cocking his head slightly Kai says, “I’ve never interacted with a siphon before.”

“But you have,” Dani replies. “I really don’t know how you didn’t realize it. But then again you were nine when my family fled.” 

Kai just stares in silence before responding with, “Well, I want to hear more but I know Kitt will want to hear this first hand from you, too.” He starts to walk toward the door. Dani doesn’t move. Kai turns and asks, “Well? Are you coming?”

Dani raises her wrists shaking the chains while shaking her head as if to say are you going to remove these? Kai gets the message but responds by saying, “Not yet. Let’s go. He wants to see you.”

Kai leads Dani through the corridors. Ones she’s familiar with. Not much has changed in the 10 years she’s been gone. They go up a flight of stairs and suddenly reach the king’s chambers. Dani has never seen the inside. She really hasn’t spent much time in this part of the castle. Kai opens the door and extends his arm as if to tell Dani to go inside. Dani steps through the door hesitantly. Kitt is no longer in the bed but rather lounging on a couch. When his eyes land on Dani he jumps to his feet. He wobbles slightly before gaining his balance. His face still looks gaunt, tired, and a bit hollow. It will take time for him to recover properly. But he’s alive.

“Dani,” Kitt says by way of greeting, not sure what to make of her. 

“Kitt,” she replies. There’s almost a sense of relief in her voice. Then she coughs. She didn’t expect it but it has her buckling over. Kitt practically lunges at her as Kai also grabs her arm to steady Dani.

“Please tell me I didn’t infect you,” Kitt says. Fear and guilt lacing his voice.

“No,” Dani replies as she catches her breath. “It’s more like I’m feeling an echo of the symptoms you felt. It will pass,” she reassures.

Kitt visibly relaxes and gestures to the couch silently asking her to sit. She does but there is clearly hesitation. Kitt sees the shackles on Dani’s wrists.

“Kai, will you please remove those from her wrists? Plagues. She saved me. I hardly think she’s going to hurt me.” Kai raises his eyebrows to this as if he’s telepathically asking Kitt if he’s sure. A moment passes when Kai removes the shackles. Dani rubs her wrists before looking at Kitt.

When she does look Kitt over, Dani whispers in astonishment, “it worked.” More to herself but she doesn’t care if they hear.

“Ok, Dani. Tell Kitt what you told me and we’ll go from there,” Kai says sitting opposite of Kitt and Dani. So, she does.

“So, what? Is a Siphon like a Wielder?” Kitt asks.

“Kind of but also no,” Dani responds, scrunching her face, dreading to explain further. “Kai’s Wielding ability allows him to borrow another’s ability. But mine…” she hesitates. “My ability enables me to steal someone’s power.” Kitt nods slightly as if he understands. Surprisingly, Dani doesn’t sense any judgement before she continues. “So, when I saved you, I basically siphoned the plague from your body, pushed it through mine, and shot it into the fire.”

“But how did you heal the wound?” Kitt asks with pure curiosity. A trait Dani always loved in him.

“Let me back track,” Dani says. She takes another shaky breath to quell the fear that wants to smother her. That makes her want to get up and run. But she looks Kitt in the eye as she continues. “My Siphon ability is the reason my family fled nearly 10 years ago. My parent’s weren’t aware of any other known Siphons and they feared I’d be seen as a Fatal.” And everyone in the room knew how Fatals were treated. “When we settled in Dor we kept to ourselves but my parents continued working with me to harness my control of both abilities. Before that point, when I was even younger I feared myself. I couldn’t control either ability and both have the potential to be so destructive. And if I siphon too much power from someone, if I can’t let go…well,” Dani swallows, “it’s not good.” Kitt still looks at her with understanding. Him being a Dual with a Blazer element only makes him more empathetic since he also had to learn control over an aggressive element. While he may seem understanding, Dani can sense he’s different. Like there is a wall now. He seems willing to listen. But she’s not sure if he will let her in.

“Part of that training included learning how to transfer power. When I siphon power from someone I need to use it almost immediately or it withers because it’s not really mine. But I can store it. Like in those crystals.” That’s when it dawns on her. “Where are my other crystals?” She looks to Kai.

“Safe,” Kai responds plainly. Dani huffs at this as she shakes her head and looks back at Kitt.

“My father was always willing to be the person I practiced with. I would take a portion of his power and push it into the crystals. The one I used to heal your wound was the last crystal I had that contained some of his Healing ability.” Dani breaks eye contact with Kitt and instead stares at her hands. It’s been some time since she has spoken of her parents. Her brother, too. Now she fights back tears.

“Dani,” is all Kitt can muster, his voice barely a whisper. “Is that why you were so standoff-ish when we were younger? You were afraid to hurt someone.” The latter was more of a realization instead of a question. Dani nods ever so slightly. Still afraid to look up. Afraid of how Kitt and Kai might see her now. The it hits him. "Where is your family, Dani? Your brother, Declan?"

Dani can't bring her gaze to his as she chokes the word out, "Dead. Can we not go there fight now?" A long moment stretches.

She hastily wipes a tear that escapes her eye as she looks up again. “Anyway, you see, I don’t need physical contact to siphon power. It makes it easier but proximity is enough,” the fear is clear in her voice. “And since Declan was a Tele and Blair too, well it made it easy to pass myself off as such.”

“But the crystal and siphoning the plague wasn’t enough, was it Dani?” Kai asks. Dani looks at him. “You did one more thing. But you looked terrified to try.”

“Becuase I’ve never done it before. I didn’t know if it would work but it felt like a last ditch effort” she shrugs. She glances toward Kitt.

“What did you do?” Kitt asks, still with nothing but curiosity.

“I… I don’t know. I reversed siphoned?” It’s practically a question on her lips. “Even after the healing and pulling the Plague from your body you were still fading. So, I pushed some of my Blazer ability into you.” Kitt’s eyes widened at that. Then he raises his palm and seems to be focusing. That’s when a flame appears. A blue flame. Small right now until he can regain his strength. But a blue flame none the less.

Kai and Dani now widen their eyes, too, as all three sit in silence wondering what it could mean.

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 3

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 3. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. There is a reference to TOG as well because of a certain quote I love sooo much. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Dani wakes in a bed she doesn’t remember falling asleep in. In a room she doesn’t recognize. Her head throbs. Her body aches. A small stream of light peaks through the curtains and even that feels too bright. Is this how Kitt felt? She wonders to herself. She moves to sit up but her wrist feel heavy. Heavy because she is chained. At least just her wrists. But panic begins to set in her chest anyway. She hates the feeling of being restrained. Chained. Trapped.

Dani realizes these chains are special. She knows because she can’t feel her abilities. These chains are laced with that rare Mute material developed by Ilya’s Scholars. She knows things could be much worse but she still ponders through what her next move will be. Surely she won’t be kept here forever.

Then the door swings open, interrupting her thoughts on possible ways to escape.

Kai walks in. He doesn’t look happy but he doesn’t look riddled with grief either. Kitt must be alive, Dani thinks. Dani doesn’t move as Kai pulls up a chair and sits a safe distance away from her. 

“How did you do it?” Kai asks.

“Care to elaborate?” Dani responds plainly.

“How did you save my brother? How did you save Kitt?” He pauses. “The Healers and Scholars confirmed he was dying - that he couldn't be saved” Kai says that last bit sharply as if the idea of Kitt’s death is painful.

“It’s complicated,” Dani responds. “Is he awake?” She swallows as the words leave her mouth, feeling her stomach threatening to heave whatever acid it may contain. “How long have I been here?” She asks.

“You both have been asleep for a few days. But he woke up this morning” Kai says realizing she’s likely dehydrated just as Kitt was. He hands her a glass of water. “Here. It’s the least I can do.”

“You could remove these shackles.” Dani mentions as she brings the cup to her mouth and drinks.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” It’s quiet for a while as Dani clasps the cup staring at the water inside.

“So, how did you do it?”

“Does it matter? He’s alive.”

“Before your family was banished,” Kai starts before Dani cuts him off.

“We weren’t banished!”

Clearly she's offended. Kai pauses to pick his next words carefully. “Ok. Before you disappeared, we thought your Dual abilities were of a Blaze and a Tele. But what I saw you do to save Kitt is not something either of those gifts can do. So, enlighten me because how you used your gifts, whatever they may be, it felt…odd to me.”

Dani takes a shaky breath. The truth is the very reason her family fled Ilya almost 10 years ago. And she fears the truth will only extend her current imprisonment now. She tries to remember that Kai and Kitt are not their father. At least they weren’t when she knew them. Kai especially with how Dani saw the late king treat him in the few moments she saw them together.

Dani and her family didn’t live in the castle but they did live in one of the mansions nearby in the city. She and her twin brother, Declan, visited the castle frequently when her mother and father would be working as a Scholar and Healer. Declan and Dani often ran around the castle with Kitt, Kai, and the other children. She and Declan even attended some of Kitt's etiquette and diplomacy lessons with him since they were the same age. The four of them would spar in the training rings. Often Dani would have her butt kicked by the boys and would get frustrated. Often walking off before her mother convinced her to not yield to the boys.

'Show me your flame.' Her mother would demand. 'Look at that. You carry wildfire, Dani. It burns hotter than most flames. Not much can extinguish it. Wildfire does not yield. And neither do you.'

So she would repeat those words whenever she wanted to give up. Lived by them. 'You do not yield. You do not quit.' So, she kept showing up. Even if it was to get her butt kicked.

“Dani," Kai's voice snaps her from the memory.

“What?!” she snaps. “Are you going to torture it out of me?”

“Don’t test me,” is all Kai says while glaring at her. She remains quiet before Kai says as his glare softens to a gaze, “Dani, please.”

“Ok,” she responds with a sigh and shaky voice “You're right. I lied about my duality combination. I’m a Blazer, yes. But I’m not a Tele.” She pauses. Kai waits for her to continue. Feeling fearful as the words leave her month Dani says, “I’m a siphon.”

[magiepieandmagic]

Relentless - Part 2

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 2. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Kitt wakes with a jolt. He’s in his bed. How did he get in his bed? He should be under the willow. He was dying. He saw Death push the fire poker Kai held into his chest. 

“You’re awake,” says Kai slumped in a chair next to Kitt’s bed. 

“I am.” Kitt replies. His voice is heavy with disbelief. “How?” asks Kitt as his voice breaks.

“You’ve been asleep for days now. Here.” Kai says as he hands Kitt a glass of water. He helps Kitt raise it to his mouth. Surely the lack of food, water, and well enduring the Plague has left his body feeling weak.

“Kai.” Kitt says lowering the glass. Tears begin to well up in his green eyes. “I’m so sorry” he says as his voice breaks again. “I… can’t remember much. I know I wasn’t” he pauses as he tries to remember. “I know I wasn’t well. I forgot myself.”

“It will be ok, Kitt,” Kai assures. 

“No” Kitt snaps harder than he intended. He takes a breath to calm himself. “I… I know I did some terrible things. I just can’t remember. How can I even begin to…” His tears fall. Kai pulls his brother into a hug. One Kitt needed far more than Kai could know. After taking another breath Kitt says, “I just wanted my brother back.”

Kai pulls Kitt back to see his face as he says, “you never lost me. And now I’m going to make sure you know that. Remember that. You’re my brother. I love you. All I know is that I almost lost you and I can’t… I can’t lose you.”

Kitt huffs a laugh. “How can you love a monster?”

Kai pauses for a moment. “Kitt. You were ill. Yes, you may need to right some massive wrongs.” He forces a small smile on his face. “But you don’t need to face this alone, Kitt. You’re not alone.”

“But you will always choose her. I remember that much.” Kitt finds it easier to admit now that his mind is clear of the Plague that tore at his mind and soul.

“I love you both,” Kai replies quickly. “I can love you both. I need you to know that I will always be there. You are not alone.”

There’s a long silence between the brothers before Kitt says, “I know I was delirious but I could have sworn I saw Dani. But that can’t be possible. Her family was exiled nearly 10 years ago.”

“Yea, they were,” replies Kai. “But you did see her.” He pauses for a moment. “Kitt. Dani saved you. I still don’t understand how she did it. But she saved you.” A tear of relief falls down Kai’s face.

“Where is she?” Kitt exclaims as he sits straight up in his bed. Practically springing up with energy he doesn’t have.

“Relax, Brother,” Kai says, trying to get Kitt to lie back down. “I had her placed into a room. One that used to be used for the Trial contestants. Guarded, of course, since we don’t really know anything about why she came or how she did what she did.”

“I want to see her as soon as possible.” Kitt demands. While his voice is stern his eyes remain glossy with tears, confusion, and a thousand questions.

“It might be a little while,” Kai replies. “She passed out while healing you. She hasn’t woken up yet as far as I know.”

Kitt closes his eyes. What did it cost her to save him? Was he worthy? He needs to see her.