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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
