The Breaking Point

By Bekka Mouri

(Everyone has one and Bekka finally reaches hers. A little bit o’ nasty language.)

Namira held Bekka forward as she pushed. Tim had refused to be by her side because he wanted her to get rid of the baby simply because he was half Daedra. He had left her for another woman and totally ignored her whenever she was around him. Sarah looked up from between her legs, “ Push harder! “

“ I can’t! “ Bekka cried, tears streaming down her cheeks. She had been in labor for several hours and it seemed like it would kill her before she had the baby.

“ Yes, you can! Now, do it! “ Sarah demanded.

Namira hugged her shoulders, “ Come on, Bekka. Just couple more pushes. I know you can do it. “

Bekka took the deepest breath she could and pushed. “ One more hard one like that, “ Sarah shouted.

“ I can’t… “ Bekka whispered.

Namira stroked her friend’s hair, “ Just one more, that’s it. She said just one more. “

Bekka another deep breath and pushed as much as her fading strength would allow. “ Oh dear, “ Sarah muttered, rushing over to an examination table after cutting the umbilical cord. Several nurses followed her.

“ I have never seen a baby so… “ One of the nurses started but Sarah hushed her then glanced over her shoulder at Bekka.

Namira furrowed her brow as she held Bekka, who had shut her eyes. She had been there when Gina had her baby and he had cried like no tomorrow when he had come out; Bekka’s was silent. She remembered that there was some stuff that had to be suctioned out and figured that was what they were going to do. She waited anxiously to hear him cry.

The minutes ticked by slowly as the swarm remained around the examination table. Finally, Sarah took a step back, her head sagging and her tail falling to the floor. A nurse whispered something to her and she nodded. The nurse approached the birthing table slowly, looking at the floor.

“ What’s wrong? “ Namira asked, her eyes wide as she hoped everything would be okay.

“ Did Lady Bekka have a name picked out for the child? “ The nurse said quietly, looking up at Namira.

Namira looked down at her friend, “ Bekka? “

“ Hmmm? “ Bekka opened her eyes slightly.

“ What were you going to name the baby? “

“ Why? Why haven’t I heard him cry yet? “ Bekka looked at the nurse.

The nurse looked at the floor and took a deep breath, “ We did everything we could but… I’m sorry. “

Another nurse walked up, “ Have you found out what he was supposed to be named so I can finish filling out the… “

The first nurse glared at the second, “ Not yet. I haven’t finished telling Lady Bekka that her son is… “

“ My son is what? “ Bekka pulled away from Namira slightly. “ Tell me! Is my son okay? “

Sarah came over. She sighed and shook her head, “ I hoped I wouldn’t have to tell you this, Bekka. Your son… died. He was very small and under developed. I was afraid the drugs would do this. I’m sorry. “

“ Noooooooooo! “ Bekka screamed, a fresh wash of tears coming to her eyes.

**

“ Bekka! Wake up! “ Namira held her down so she would stop thrashing around violently. She had been jolted awake by a piercing scream, finding that it came from Bekka. She ran over and pinned Bekka to the bed, afraid she would hurt the baby. “ Wake up! You’re having a bad dream! “

Bekka’s tear soaked eyes came open and she grabbed Namira by the shoulders, “ Is he okay? “

“ Is who okay? “ Namira didn’t let go of Bekka.

“ My BABY! Is he okay? “ She demanded.

“ He’s still inside of you. I don’t know if he’s okay or not, “ Namira stated.

Bekka stopped struggling, “ He is? “

Namira nodded, “ It was just a bad dream. “

Bekka let go of Namira and sat up. She suddenly felt like she was falling down a spiral and the destination was unknown. She pulled her knees to her chest and began to cry. “ What have I done to deserve this horrible life? “ She sobbed, grasping her knees tightly.

“ What do you mean? “ Namira sat down on the bed.

“ Look at me, Namira. My life has been HORRIBLE! I don’t know what I did to deserve it, “ Bekka said, her mind summoning up everything she had lived through. She had survived through a lot but never questioned it until that moment. She pressed her face into her knees, “ Why do I have to suffer like this? “

Namira was speechless. She had never known what real suffering was. She had always been sheltered (albeit too much) and never had to fight for anything. She felt totally helpless, not knowing what to say or do.

Both women were startled when the door to their room crashed open. Ryat stood in the doorway, rubbing his shoulder. “ Okay. Where is he? Who tried to hurt her? “

Namira blinked, “ Where did you come from and what are you talking about? “

“ I heard Bekka scream, “ Ryat walked over to Bekka’s bed, bent over and placed a hand on her shoulder, “ Are you okay? Did someone hurt you? “

Bekka snapped her neck up, “ YOU! I told you to leave us alone! “ She snarled, balling up one of her fists and hitting Ryat in the jaw. His head went to the side but he recovered quickly.

“ Hey! I thought someone was in here hurting you two! “ He shouted, grabbing her arm to stop another hit. “ Pardon me for… “

Bekka pulled her arm from his loose grip, “ I won’t pardon you for shit, bastard! You helped make my life so horrible! “

Ryat stepped back as Bekka tried to stand up on the bed. “ What’s her problem? “ He looked at Namira.

“ She had a nightmare… “

“ And I haven’t woke up from it in thirteen and a half years! “ Bekka screamed. “ Why couldn’t those slave traders take one of the motherfuckers that used to make fun of because I was different? “

“ Get down for there or you’ll fall! “ Ryat commanded as he watched Bekka wobble dangerously on the mattress.

Bekka stepped down, standing on her tiptoes so she could scream at Ryat (Well, his neck, at least), “ I’m not going to take any godsdamned orders from you! I thought living with the Dagons’ was a nightmare but it was a dream compared to the wolves you threw me to! “

“ Whoa! We already discussed this. I’m sorry… “ Ryat moved backwards as Bekka advanced on him.

“ No you’re not! You wanted to save your worthless ass! Tell me, did you ever see your BOSS without his cloak on? “ Bekka forced Ryat against a wall.

“ No. Very few people ever saw Master Nionus without it. Only the girls in the brothel and his closest friends were allowed to see him without it. “

“ You want to know WHY? He was a LIVING nightmare! Let me tell you what he looked like under that thing! “

“ What about your friend? Do you want to tell me this in front of her? “ Ryat pointed to Namira. She was frozen where she stood. She had never seen Bekka so angry and out of control. She wanted to step in for the baby’s sake but fear held her fast.

Bekka ignored his question, “ He had rings imbedded in his body, just like earrings but they were all over him. His ears, eyebrows, nipples, lips and he even had this THING through his tongue! His WHOLE body was tattooed! “

Namira tried to picture what Bekka was describing. The mental picture frightened her and she wondered how scared Bekka had been when she first met such a man.

She had often seen men with earrings but only in their ears. She had even seen tattoos but never one that covered a whole body.

Ryat looked down into Bekka’s wild murderous eyes. He dared not to speak for she looked like an animal that would bite through his throat if he breathed a single syllable. He had heard stories about what Master Nionus had looked like but none as vivid as Bekka related to him. She narrowed her eyes, “ The only respite I had was in Ryonus’ arms. “

“ Master Nionus’ distant cousin? “ Ryat gasped. “ The one who helped him break the new girls in? “

“ Yes. He felt pity for me! He helped me by getting me the things I needed to make the whips that kept me sane! The day I had to leave his arms, I felt like I was leaving a part of my heart behind! “

Ryat wasn’t sure if Bekka knew Ryonus was presumed dead because he had supposedly had been in the brothel when Mehrunes’ men destroyed it. He remained quiet as Bekka continued her tirade, “ He distracted Nionus so I could make my escape and go to the harem! “

“ But you got out of Master Nionus’ control! Weren’t you happy with that? “ Ryat replied.

“ It was okay… for a few days. Then, Mehrunes came after me! He destroyed the club looking for me! He killed my friends and then got into the harem to kidnap me. Luckily, I had made friends in the harem quickly or he would have gotten me the first time! “

“ Then he got out of jail? “

“ Yeah! Now, I have just gotten out of that part of the nightmare that is my life! I don’t need you here to cause more! “ Bekka pushed against him, her body pressing against his.

“ Then hit me again. Let it out. I agree with you. Your life HAS been a nightmare and I didn’t help it any, “ Ryat turned his chin so she could hit him.

Bekka raised both fist and began to pummel Ryat all over his chest and arms. She hit hard but Ryat ignored the pain. He felt he deserved it; it probably didn’t compare to the pain Bekka had felt over the years. Her strong hits became weaker until they were feeble.

With a pained sigh, she let her arms fall to her side, fresh tears welling up. “ It didn’t do any good, “ She sobbed, sitting back down on the bed. “ The only thing that will help is if I die… “

Ryat fell to his knees in front of her, “ NO! Don’t ever say that! You’re too special and wonderful to die as young as you are. Gods, Bekka… whatever happened to your motto of it’s not where you’ve been but where you’re going! “

“ Please don’t say that, Bekka! You’re my only friend! “ Namira fell on the bed behind her, her arms wrapping around Bekka’s shoulders.

Bekka put her hand on Namira’s, “ Thank you but that doesn’t change the fact I have lived in hell. “

Ryat took Bekka’s other hand but she pulled away. “ Damn it, woman! “ He growled, “ Why do you have to be so stubborn? Can’t you see I am repentant for what I did to you? “

“ Please, Bekka? Let him have another chance? “ Namira asked. “ What if someone had been in here and tried to hurt you? I would have never been able to fight him off myself. “

Bekka chewed her lip. She hated it when people wanted her to make decisions when she wasn’t in a good state of mind. Namira was right though. If someone had been in the room, both of them would have been hurt.

“ She’s right you know, “ Ryat said, looking into Bekka’s eyes.

“ I know that! “ Bekka snapped, her tears slowly fading. “ I guess I can forgive you. “

Ryat grabbed Bekka and kissed her on the lips. He pulled away, “ Thank you! You don’t know how good that makes me feel. I feel like… “

“ Save it, “ Bekka sighed. “ I want to lay down some rules. “

“ Rules? “ Ryat arched an eyebrow.

Bekka nodded, “ Yes. First, stay out of sight. Second, Only show yourself when there’s danger. And third… Keep you hands off of Namira and me. “

“ I think I can handle that, “ Ryat nodded his head. “ Fair lady, I am under your command. “

Bekka pushed him softly, “ Good. Now, get out of here so Namira and I can get dressed. We’ll meet you downstairs when we are ready to go. “

Ryat rose to his feet and gave Bekka a mock salute, “ Yes, mistress. “

Namira giggled but stopped when she sensed Bekka feeling slightly annoyed at the gesture. She watched as Ryat walked back to the door, he went outside and lifted the door back into place, effectively shutting it. “ Namira, “ Bekka whispered.

“ What? “ Namira thought there was something wrong.

“ How much money do we have? “

Namira let go of Bekka’s shoulders and dug the money from her apron. She poured the coins out in her hand and counted them quickly. “ More than enough to finish the journey. “

“ When you go to pay for the room, pay for his too. “

“ Bekka… “ Namira started.

“ Don’t give me a chance to change my mind. I want you to pay for his lodging until we get back to the harem. Maybe I can talk to Gina and Jenn about making him a man slave… “

“ A what? “ Namira blinked, unsure of what Bekka meant.

Bekka cracked a very tiny smile, “ I’ll explain later. “

“ Okay. I have lots of questions I want you to answer, “ Namira said.

Bekka nodded, “ I know. “

<beepbeepbeep>

(Announcer)

This is a special report form the Denubian News Network, Bringing you continuing coverage of the

Mehrunes Dagon Jailbreak! Authorities traced his possible location to his family's estate. However, all they found were cold ashes.

(A very official looking officer type appears on the screen)

What we have determined is that this blaze probably occurred some time ago and it would have been impossible for anyone to survive. Search teams have combed the debris but haven't found any bodies yet. In my professional opinion, if anyone was in the house at the time, their bodies would have been incinerated.

(Camera pans over the piles of ashes)

(Announcer)

The authorities are planning a final search of the area and Mehrunes Dagon will be declared officially dead. As you just heard, there is no way anyone could have survived the blaze that destroyed the Dagon estate. It looks like this manhunt has come to an end. Please stay tuned to DNN for any further developments...

Window Of Opportunity

By Bekka Mouri

(While searching for Maeve, someone sees his chance to get into the harem.)

Rhys-Davies listened to the news report with a slight grin on his lips. He steered his cruiser towards Doom, quite for sure his hunch was right. In his search for Maeve, he had decided to try the tiny planet of a mad doctor who would help anyone if they had enough money. When he got there, he found a partially burnt lab and the corpse of the doctor.

“ Hmmm, “ He said, looking over a set of moderately burned notes he had found in the lab, “ Things seem to be pointing in a very favorable direction. “

Across the top of the notes, a name had been written. “ Mehrunes, you were a little too sloppy this time, “ Rhys-Davies looked over the pages, discovering that Dr. Gerone had operated on the bounty hunter. “ Sick man… you said it, Doctor. “

He shifted in his seat a little, thinking of the punishment he had witnessed in a bar while looking for Maeve. He had seen The Lady Bitch neuter Mehrunes when it had been on the television. He remembered how the men in the bar had groaned in unison when she delivered his reward for pursuing the alluring young woman with the dedication only an insane man could possess. He was a crafty man and he was sure he had gotten out of the fire.

He knew Mehrunes had to be relatively unharmed because Dr. Gerone was known to have a serum that would heal someone in an instant. He was quite for certain Mehrunes had taken everything he could use before torching the lab. What he didn’t know was that Dr. Gerone had equipped his lab with some anti-conflagration devices in case of a blaze. If he hadn’t had such devices, the notes would have been destroyed.

“ You are getting very sloppy indeed, “ Rhys-Davies chuckled, knowing his hunch had to be correct. If not, he didn’t care. He would just find another way into the harem. Mehrunes had infiltrated it twice and could possibly be very helpful… if he were alive.

**

Mehrunes pulled the blanket around his shoulders tighter, the cold chilling him to the marrow of his bones. “ At least I’m alive, “ He grumbled to himself, huddling down in the cave. He had escaped the fire by breaking a window and climbing out of it. He had taken nothing but the healing serum and the cover from his bed.

He didn’t have shoes so he was forced to drink the serum at intervals to impede the pain and bleeding from his feet until he got to the cave. Once inside, he slumped against the wall, the stress from the cold not being soothed away by the medicine. He sighed, digging in the bag until he found a book of matches he had taken from the doctor. He looked around the cave but couldn’t find anything to start a fire with.

Normally, the cold would have not bothered him but all he wore was a pair of pants. Even though he had grown up on the cold planet, it seemed colder than normal that night. His flesh had still been damp from bathing and it didn’t help his situation. The dampness had made the smoke from the fire stick to his skin and he had also shed some blood as he crawled through the broken window; the scratches and gouges had been healed but the blood remained, staining him.

He caught sight of one of the notebooks out of the corner of his eye. He pulled it out, looking at it. “ I won’t be needing this anymore, “ He muttered, seeing it was the documentation on the serums he had stolen. Everything but the healing serum had been incinerated in the fire.

He began ripping up the pages, piling them up. Once the pile was large enough, he struck a match and touched it to a corner. It caught and the fire spread across the pile quickly. Mehrunes threw a few wadded up papers on it as well, hoping he had enough paper to keep him warm.

**

Rhys-Davies stood a distance away from the Dagon estate, watching the search crews sift through the ashes one last time. A frown creased the corners of his mouth as he watched them extract a few charred bones. He had heard rumors that Mehrunes’ dead parents had been in the house, boarded up in their wing of the house. He wasn’t too for sure how true the rumor was but if it were true, Mehrunes was a much sicker man than he thought.

A familiar smell came to him; the smell of blood. He pulled out a tiny flashlight and shined it on the ground. He smiled, seeing a faint trail on the stony path. “ What do we have here? “ He said, a slight bit of smugness to his voice.

He followed the trail for a little bit then it stopped. He furrowed his brow, moving the light in all four directions as he advanced slowly. The trail started again and ended shortly after he had found it. A little distance more, he found the trail again.

“ The healing serum, “ He chuckled. “ Mehrunes must have escaped without shoes and this rough terrain keeps chewing his feet up. He must be drinking it so he can continue on. He looks like he is going in a linear path… “

The sporadic marks of blood led to a cave. Rhys-Davies smiled to himself; sometimes he was so smart, he almost amazed himself. After years of tracking the likes of Maeve and Mehrunes, he couldn’t help but learn how their minds worked. He was for sure someone had to be in the cave because he could smell smoke.

“ A fire to keep you warm, “ He muttered. “ If you can be a help to me, you will have a cruiser to do the same. “

He walked into the cave carefully as not to startle whomever was in there. The pathway was partly blocked by a boulder, giving him a place to hide himself as he neared where the firelight got a little brighter. He peered around it slightly, looking at the man by the flames. His blue skin was stained by smoke and blood.

Rhys-Davies smiled, ~Target sighted.~

**

Mehrunes held his hands out to the fire, warming them before running them over his arms. The fire was adequate but he could have used a bigger one; he still felt like his bones were frozen. He had hope Namira had bundled up like he had told her to. She had probably fled blindly when she had seen the house burning. Mehrunes sighed, remembering the day he had seen his half sister for the first time.

The day he had discovered his father had an affair, his whole world crumbled. He had always admired his father for being a loyal and truthful man. After that, he kept finding more and more things that tarnished the man’s image in his mind. At eighteen, he ran away from home.

He had returned for Namira’s fourth birthday, finding his parents had acquired a human slave. At the time, she was a ten-year-old girl. He had scoffed at their decision, calling the girl a trophy slave. He accused them of getting her just to make them appear more affluent than they really were and said they would have trouble with her for as long as they kept her.

They were unaware that he had become a bounty hunter and was quickly making a name for himself as one of the best in that part of Doom. He dared not to tell them. He did not want to disappoint his mother for she still thought he was a good young man. He did not visit the house again for seven years, stories of his exploits reaching his parents but they ignored them; they would not believe it.

Namira was eleven when he had finally returned. She loved him in spite of the fact that he was never around. He would often send her gifts and that made her think he was wonderful. He hoped she would never know different.

He remembered the day he returned vividly. The slave he said would be so much trouble had blossomed into a sexy woman. Something in his mind said that she would be his even if it killed him. Thanks to Bekka, he had almost been killed twice.

He thought about the fiery woman he had went through so much for and now she gone; all because of a stupid mistake he had made. What he had worked for over the past six year and he killed her just as he was starting to make her his own. He had wasted most of his family’s fortune to find her except for the small bit he was able to put in the bag as he escape the inferno.

He growled, angry that he had messed everything up. He should have known better than to throw the bottle of aphrodisiac in the fire. He usually had much better sense than that. His senses were probably still clouded from his marathon-like encounter with his greatest obsession.

After he had finished taking her while she was under the influence of the aphrodisiac, she was delirious. He slipped out of her room and got the sedative. Upon returning, he gave her some to put her to sleep so he could cart her off to bathe her and himself. If he had known, he would have let her die dirty and not wasted his time like that.

He became still, realizing he was no longer alone. He narrowed his eyes, scanning the area. “ It’s probably a beast of some sort, “ He muttered to himself.

“ Not quite, Dagon, “ A smooth voice with an odd accent came from behind a boulder on the other side of the cave.

Mehrunes rose to his feet as quickly as his chilled body would allow. “ Who are you? “ He said.

The man stepped out from behind the rock. He was more than six feet tall with longish black hair and the smooth kind of looks that would make women melt. He looked like he weighed about the same Mehrunes and very muscular. The dim light of the fire did not allow Mehrunes to see the man’s eyes.

“ A friend. I need a bit of help and you seemed like my best option for that help, “ The man smirked knowingly, “ Since you HAVE infiltrated Castle Doom twice. “

“ How do you know who I am? “ Mehrunes took a step back.

“ You seem to be very popular in the news right now. I’m sure that you don’t know this, but it was discovered that it wasn’t your body they found on the prison planet after all. The authorities tracked you down to your home but it looks like they will declare you and another dead. “

“ What are you talking about? “ Mehrunes was confused. Only the Dagon family and the Dragon family knew for sure where the estate was located.

“ Ah, just thought I would let you know that you will be dead man soon and will be able to help me without restriction, “ The man came closer.

“ I don’t even know your name much less why you want my help, “ Mehrunes looked at the man.

“ I am Rhys-Davies. I am one of the best in my field, “ He smiled, “ I track down people and bring them to justice. “

“ Are you here to get me so I can rot in a prison cell? “ Mehrunes felt his heart sink. He had hoped to avoid that.

Rhys-Davies chuckled, “ No, my (ahem) good man. You have knowledge that I could use. I am tracking a young woman named Maeve MacCumhail and I think you could help me. I was chasing her in space but she disappeared on me and I think she has returned to her home in the prince’s harem. “

Mehrunes arched an eyebrow, “ Really now? Well, I cannot deny that I have gotten into Castle Doom on two occasions, one of which I got caught. The second time was successful but it doesn’t matter now. My prize burned up in the fire that destroyed my home. “

“ Your… prize? “ Rhys-Davies arched one of his eyebrows. “ Would you be speaking of that beautiful vixen who gave you the tongue lashing on the television? Would you be talking of that beauty with the blonde/purple hair and violet eyes that are a few shades lighter than the sky of this wretched planet? “

Mehrunes nodded, “ Indeed but I was fool and I destroyed her with my stupidity, probably along with my beloved half-sister. I even went through an operation so I could punish her for running away from me. “

“ I know of your operation, Dagon; I found Dr. Gerone’s notes in his lab. “

“ But I burned the lab! “ Mehrunes’ eyes grew wide.

Rhys-Davies smiled, “ Dr. Gerone was a smart man and he was his lab equipped so fires could be stopped. I am surprised you didn’t think of that. It was that sloppiness that led me to you. “

“ Curses! I hope I wasn’t as sloppy otherwise, “ Mehrunes’ slumped his shoulders, “ But what does it matter now? I have lost the girl and most likely my sister. “

“ I do feel for you but I have not come here to speak to you about your losses. I have come here to speak to you of revenge against those who have put you in this position. They live in the harem, do they not? “

Mehrunes narrowed his eyes, “ Yes. That blasted Lady Bitch robbed me of my manhood. I would love to show her what I can do with the replacement I have before I wrap my fingers around her throat and choke her last breath from her. I would also like to do the same to the wench who captured me in the garden; the one with the robot and the blueblood that are at her side. “

A light went on in Rhys-Davies brain. A robot and a blueblood sounded like the kind of company Maeve would keep. “ What did this woman look like? “

“ She had blonde hair and emerald colored eyes. She was lithe and sharp-witted as well. I tried to sneak up on her but she was alerted to my presence and attacked me, “ Mehrunes tried to remember other things about her but he couldn’t bring them to mind. “ I heard her name once or twice but I cannot recall it. “

“ The emerald eyes sound very familiar, “ Rhys-Davies tapped his finger on his chin. Maeve had a penchant to color her hair and it was possible she had been a flaxen-hair beauty at the time Mehrunes crossed paths with her. “ I think we have something in common, my friend. “

“ Then I shall help you on one condition, “ Mehrunes smiled.

“ And what would that be? “

“ To at least let me have this Maeve before you take her to whatever authorities you are working for. I want to show her she made a mistake by ever messing with me, “ Mehrunes’ eyes sparkled evilly in the firelight.

“ It is a deal then. Now, come along and we shall begin our journey to the palace, “ Rhys-Davies looked at Mehrunes, “ I could possibly lend you some of my clothes so you aren’t so exposed. “

“ Thanks, “ Mehrunes nodded, “ I appreciate this chance you are giving to me. I will show those bitches that they messed with the wrong person. “

<beepbeepbeep>

(Announcer appears on screen)

This is a special report from the Denubian News Network. We have just been informed that two sets of charred remains have been recovered from The Dagon Estate. For more information, We are going to go to our man on the scene...

(Man on the scene)

Just a short while ago, search crews removed quite a few charred bones from the Dagon Estate

It is not for certain but it is believed one set belongs to Mehrunes Dagon. As of yet, Authorities are unsure of who the extra remains belong to. There is only one possibility; that the remains belong to Mehrunes' sister, Namira. She was said to have lived in the house with her brother. Back to you in the studio...

(Announcer)

Thank you. For those of you who may have just tuned in, Two sets of charred remains have been recovered from the Dagon Estate, one of them is believed to be Mehrunes while the other could possibly be his sister, Namira. Please stay tuned to DNN for any further developments...

Two Evils Combined (And One Foiled)

By Bekka Mouri

(Mehrunes messes up one more time... And thanks to Maeve for letting me borrow her M-5 agent ^_^.)

Rhys-Davies sat behind the control panel of the ship, piloting it slowly towards the palace. He wanted to pick through Mehrunes’ brain to see what he could find out about getting into the castle. Sure, he would be able to figure it out on his own but he would need a little bit of a plan since Mehrunes was tagging along. He looked back at his passenger quickly, seeing he was asleep.

The blanket was still wrapped around Mehrunes’ shoulders but loosely. The cruiser was very warm and he had began to thaw out, becoming heavy-eyed in its comfort. ~Stupid fool,~ Rhys Davies thought. ~I hope you are done being sloppy or I will have to dispose of you myself.~

He reached down to the leather bag Mehrunes had brought along. Inside were two full bottles of the healing serum, one half empty/half full bottle and the remnants of the notebook he had been burning. One page remained and it was the one with the information on the serum. He skimmed it and grinned; one of the side effects of heavy use was lowered body temperature.

~That would explain why he was so cold. This stuff made him susceptible to his own climate. He would have died for real if I hadn’t come along,~ Rhys-Davies grinned. ~Lucky me.~

He switched on the radio and listened as the newsman repeated the top story of the day. He listened as the reporter told of the remains that were found at the estate and grinned at his sleeping passenger. ~So, this is what a ‘dead man’ looks like, eh?~ He chuckled to himself. ~Idiots.~

The radar began to beep and he looked over at it. The telltale power signal of a royal cruiser had been detected. “ Looks like we have company… maybe they won’t harass a merchant vessel, “ Rhys-Davies smirked as he threw a switch on the panel. He grinned, “ Nigel, you are a genius. “

**

Lotor sat at the panel of the cruiser, carefully piloting it when a blip appeared on the radar screen. He typed in quick command and discovered the disguised power signal was that of a private vessel. “ Fool. Doesn’t he know that the trick he is using is older than the youngest of my ladies? “ He muttered then noticed the vessel began to change course slightly, “ Mistake, my friend; now I know who you are. “

Zechs walked onto the bridge, “ Lotor, Lady Samara says that she senses that vile scum Mehrunes is VERY nearby. Do think it would be wise to turn back? “

“ No. I want to find my ladies but I will radio to the castle and tell them to expect company. That bastard can just rot in the dungeons until we get back, “ A grin crossed Lotor’s lips, “ Maybe Hector can have a bit of fun with him and whomever he has gotten to bring him to the castle. “

Zechs chuckled, “ I am sure Hector would enjoy that very much. “

“ Would you like to radio the harem or shall I? “ Lotor’s finger hovered over the communication link button.

“ Let me. I am sure Treize will enjoy taking a few shots at him. “

“ I want him alive, “ Gina said, walking up behind Zechs. “ I can just take care of him after we have found the others. “

“ Nobody said anything about Treize killing him. Injuring him a bit and then handing him over to Hector but you will get to rid Doom of him, “ Lotor flipped on autopilot and turned to face Gina. “ Of course, I will make sure you will get in no trouble whatsoever. I AM a prince; I can do those things, you know. “

Gina smiled, “ Oh yes I do. “

**

The communicator attached to Treize’s belt began to beep. He detached it and flipped it open. “ Treize here. “

“ Hello, Treize. This is Zechs. I just wanted you to know that you should expect a little bit of company. There is cruiser near the castle and Samara sense Mehrunes on it. “

“ Why didn’t you shoot it down? “ Treize growled.

“ Lady Gina wants to see his demise personally, “ Treize could feel Zechs’ smile through the communicator. “ You can rough him up but don’t kill him. “

Prowler sat down at Treize’s feet, looking up at him. Although he couldn’t communicate with the shadowcat, he knew what he wanted. The cat wanted to help. “ I have a volunteer, Zechs. I think that we shall play with our prey before capturing him. “

~That’s the spirit, Blueblood!~ seemed to flash across Prowler’s eyes as he smiled a cat grin and licked his lips. Mehrunes had been one of the main reasons Maeve ran away and he would be punished for that.

“ Just don’t let him get away, “ Zechs said, “ Zechs out. “

Treize placed the communicator back on his belt and looked down at the smiling shadowcat. “ Shall we? “

Prowler nodded, knowing exactly whom else he could get to help with the plan that was going through his cat brain. Almost instantly, Sudan came trotting up. Treize watched as the two cats had a wordless conversation for about five minutes. Sudan nodded and trotted off to the cat/wolf/ door that led out to the garden.

**

Mehrunes adjusted his clothes and looked over at Nigel. “ Are you ready? “

“ Do not rush me. We do need a bit of a plan. You did say there were animals in this place, right? “ Nigel checked some of the equipment he was going to use.

Mehrunes nodded, “ A lyger, and a HUGE black cat of some sort. “

“ Well then… That would mean that there is some way for the animals to get in and out of the harem in order to take care of their bodily functions, “ Nigel was a little amused at the thought of a REALLY HUGE littler box but did not mention it to Mehrunes.

“ And that would be our way in? “ Mehrunes arched an eyebrow.

Nigel smiled, “ You’re a smart man. All we have to do is locate it and sneak in. If Maeve is indeed there, we’ll have her in no time at all and you can be punishing those wenches for making your life so horrible. “

“ I love the way you think, Rhys-Davies, “ Mehrunes patted the man on the shoulder.

“ Please, call me Nigel, “ Nigel felt like Mehrunes had somehow stained him by touching him.

“ Okay, Nigel. When do we go? “ Mehrunes smiled evilly, imagining the look on Gina’s face when she saw he had been repaired.

**

~Okay, I think we have the plan established. I am going to disappear and you will ramble around the garden like a stupid animal,~ Prowler and Sudan sat outside the cat door, working out the details of their plan.

~Right. I will roll around on my back making playful noises. When that no longer interests me, I will chase imaginary bugs. Then, I will finally become bored and come back inside,~ Sudan cringed inwardly. The only time he acted like a kitten was for Michelle and that still wasn’t very often; he was too dignified for that.

Prowler lifted his head, his ear twitching. ~I hear someone approaching. Time to put on your show, Sudan.~

Sudan watched as Prowler became invisible before making his way out to the garden. He could smell two men and one of them was definitely Mehrunes. ~Heh heh, stupid fool.~

**

Mehrunes scaled the wall outside of the enchanted garden and peered over. He looked down at Nigel, “ One of the cats is out, “ He whispered.

“ What is he doing? “ Nigel whispered back.

Mehrunes watched as the large cat rolled on the ground, making happy sounding noises. A few moments later, he stood to his feet and began to chase something Mehrunes could not see. After that, the cat sat down and yawned, looking rather bored. He slowly walked towards the harem, pushing his way through some neatly trimmed bushes.

“ I see where he went in, “ Mehrunes smiled.

Nigel nodded, “ Then let’s go but be careful. “

Mehrunes slipped over the wall and landed softly on the ground. He looked up and made sure there were no lights visible in the windows that lined the hallway. He then crawled towards the place the cat had gone through, Nigel watching from the wall the entire time. He was going to make sure the coast was clear before trying something THAT risky himself; Mehrunes had said there were two cats and they had only seen one.

Mehrunes slipped into the opening that led into the harem, a feeling of triumph building in his heart. ~Oh yes! I get to show those sluts I was the wrong person to mess with! Oh yes, Oh yes, Oh… shit!~ The point of a very sharp sword came into contact with his throat.

“ So, “ A smooth voice purred, “ You just DON’T know when to give up, do you? Tsk tsk, insanity does seem to addle the mind. “

Mehrunes tried to back up but found his way blocked by something quite big and quite furry. His blood ran cold as the animal began to growl. He had forgotten about the other cat. He had probably been in the yard where Mehrunes couldn’t see him.

~Uh oh,~ Mehrunes thought, realizing he had royally messed up.

**

Nigel was well on his way back to the cruiser. Mehrunes wanted to go right in and he had let him; there was no sense in stopping a crazy man heading for his own destruction. “ Oh well, I should have seen THAT foul up in the works, “ He muttered to himself. “ I guess I will just have to find my way in on my own. If Maeve IS in there, I’ll get her eventually. “

A Welcome Surprise

By Bekka Mouri

(Bekka finds a pleasant surprise waiting for her…)

Bekka walked a few feet behind Namira, embarrassed over her behavior the day before. Her panic attacks were usually bad but not as bad as the one she had after her nightmare; it had caused them to wait a day before setting out again. She figured it was probably brought on by all the anxiety she had felt over the baby and the possibility it could have some adverse health problems due to the drugs that had been through her system.

Namira was worried about Bekka. She had never seen anyone act the way Bekka had in the tavern and it frightened her. She hoped nothing else would happen that would cause Bekka to react like that; Namira was sure it wasn’t good for the baby. Namira wanted to talk about it but she did not know how to approach such a subject.

Bekka narrowed her eyes as she heard footsteps behind her. She looked over her shoulder and glared, “ You’re too close! “

“ I’m sorry, “ Ryat felt like he had been saying those two words more than anything else. “ I’ll wait for you to get a little more ahead and then I will follow. “

Bekka growled but didn’t say anything. She was still a slightly apprehensive about having her former lover as a bodyguard. He had screwed her over in the past and wasn’t too sure if he would have any problems with doing it again. Namira seemed to trust him but Bekka would have to explain to her why she thought Ryat was a jerk.

Namira looked across the bleak landscape, seeing lights in the distance. She looked at Bekka, “ We’re getting closer to the next tavern. “

“ Good. I’m getting tired, “ Bekka sighed, pulling her hood up. She just wished she could be in her nice warm bed in the harem. She stopped herself as she thought about Tim. She still wasn’t sure how he would accept her current state.

~Why in all of Doom is she so damn bitchy?~ Ryat thought, starting to walk again. He remembered her as a quiet girl that was eager to learn new things. In the year they had been together, she had never raised her voice to him. Perhaps what had happened to her afterwards took more of a toll than he realized.

**

Everyone in the tavern turned to look when the door opened. Namira flushed at the wolf whistles the men in the tavern aimed at her and Bekka. One handsome young Drule ran up and took Bekka’s hand. “ May I help you to your seat, milady? “

Bekka smiled from under her hood, “ Thank you. “

Another young man that looked like the first ran up and grabbed Namira’s hand, startling her a bit. He smiled, “ I’ll help you to your seat as well. “

Namira felt like her insides had turned to jelly. “ Uh, okay, “ She forced a nervous smile.

“ Twins, “ Bekka sighed quietly. “ How cute. “

The two young men led them to a table and pulled the chairs out for them. Bekka and Namira took their seats, thanking them. They reached for the women’s cloaks but Bekka stopped the man helping her. “ That’s fine. I’ll take it off in a little bit. “

The man helping Namira eased her cape from her, his hands lingering on her shoulders and down her arms as he removed it. Namira seemed to be mystified by the action and wanted it to continue. She sighed when the man took his hands away, her body missing his touch. “ What would you ladies like to eat? “ The first one smiled down at Bekka.

“ Whatever this place is good at cooking, “ She replied.

“ Roasted meat… Just don’t ask what kind! “ Quipped the other and both of them took off for the bar.

Bekka ground her jaw as Ryat came in shortly after the two men left. Namira looked over and smiled at him, making Bekka’s frown deeper. She didn’t hold many grudges until she had met him and he seemed like the best person for her to hate. She hoped Namira hadn’t become enchanted with the roguish man; she was sure he was probably the same as he ever was.

“ Bekka, “ Namira looked at her friend. “ Why do you hate him so much? “

“ You wouldn’t understand. He… broke my heart. “

Namira looked puzzled, “ What do you mean? “

“ Do you know what betrayal is? “ Bekka asked.

“ Is that when someone does something that disappoints you? “ Namira put her elbows on the table and rested her chin on her hands.

“ Yeah. He really disappointed me. I thought he loved me and then he sold me into prostitution, “ Bekka clasped her hands in front of her.

Namira nodded, “ Mehrunes disappointed me when I discovered what he was hiding. It hurt to find you like that and to know my own brother was doing bad things to someone. “

“ You loved him very much, didn’t you? “ Bekka asked, remembering how Namira adored her brother when she was small.

Namira looked toward the table, “ When I was little, I did. Then, he left home and wasn’t around much. He’d come home every so often but he wouldn’t stay long. The night Mama and Papa died, I didn’t even know he was home until I heard his… “

“ Heard his what? “ Bekka leaned in a little closer.

Namira put her hands down on the table, “ When the man gave me my powers, I could hear Mehrunes’ thoughts. Before I knew it, he was in the room with me, wanting to know what happened. “

“ Oh. That was the night I escaped. “

“ He was thinking something about a wench leaving before he could… take her. What did he mean by take? Was he going to have her go into town with him? “ Namira looked at Bekka with wide innocent eyes.

Bekka chewed her lip, “ No. He was going to do bad things to her. “

“ Oh. “

“ Namira, there’s a lot of things you don’t know and I don’t know if I should tell you about them all. One thing I am going to tell you is this: Anything that happens to you WITHOUT you approval is a bad thing, not just what your brother did to me, “ Bekka tried to explain the best she could.

“ You mean like if I say no and the other person does it anyway? “ Namira cocked her head to the side.

Bekka nodded, “ Now you’re getting it. “

“ Did Ryat do other bad things to you? “ Namira whispered.

Bekka had to think about it. The first time he had taken her, it was because she had no other choice in the matter. Every time after, she had wanted him to take her. “ Can we talk about this later? I really have no idea how to explain these kinds of things. “

Namira sighed, “ Okay but you said you would. “

“ And I mean it. Just not right away, “ Bekka nodded.

Ryat got up from his table and went to the tavern keeper. He asked the man a question and the man shook his head before saying something else, making a motion with his hand across his cheek. Ryat looked like he asked the man if he was sure and the man nodded. Ryat turned on his heel and walked to the table where Namira and Bekka were.

“ Problem, ladies, “ He sighed.

Bekka growled, “ Yeah. You’re too close. “

“ Not only that, there are no more rooms left. “

Namira and Bekka both said, “ What? “

“ I just went to ask that man over there. He said he gave the last one to a young man who was waiting for a lady. He said the guy looked pretty beat, “ Ryat shook his head. “ He said he felt sorry for him; he had a really nasty scar across his cheek. “

Bekka caught her breath but released it. ~No way. Tim couldn’t be here.~

“ He said he was sorry but we would have to go somewhere else, “ Ryat shook his head, “ I don’t know about you, but I am tired. “

“ We are too, “ Namira sighed. “ Maybe we’ll get lucky. “

“ I hope, “ Bekka whispered.

Payback Is A Bitch

By Bekka Mouri

(The title says it all, doesn’t it? ^_^)

Mehrunes gulped hard as the tip of the sword pressed into his flesh; he was very sure he would be meeting his end quickly. “ Don’t try anything stupid, “ The man holding the sword prodded him a bit, “ Lady Gina wants you alive and I do not want to be forced to kill you. “

“ Who are you? “ Mehrunes whispered. He was fighting off his claustrophobia the best he could but it wasn’t working. He felt like the passageway was beginning to close in on him and he would have to get out soon. He couldn’t though; both ways were blocked.

“ Treize Khushrinada, “ The man replied. Mehrunes then heard Treize unclip something and a click. “ Treize to guards Clavicus, Molag and Peryite. Meet me in the south hall by the garden. “

Mehrunes recalled the names Treize had said. They belonged to the three bounty hunters who had deserted him. “ Those bastards! “ He breathed.

The sound of footsteps came down the hall. There was one heavy set and two a bit lighter. They stopped next to Treize, “ You called us, Master Treize? “ Peryite’s youthful voice reached Mehrunes’ ears.

“ Yes. There’s someone in the cat/wolf passage. He thought he had the ballocks to trespass a THIRD time, “ Treize said.

“ A third time? Are you speaking of… “ Clavicus’ voice was next. He leaned down and peered into the passage. “ Say, boss! How’s it going? Looks like you’re in a tight spot! “

“ You! I nearly severed your spine! How could you be alive? “ Mehrunes looked at the cocky young man in disbelief.

“ A little bit of tender loving care, nothing too fancy “ Clavicus smirked. “ Why don’t you come out here where we can see you better? The boys and I sure missed you! “

Molag stooped down, “ Yeah. We sure did. Get out here so we can see your face, “ sarcasm dripped from Molag’s voice almost as thick as it had from Clavicus’.

Mehrunes was terrified. He could not move forward or back lest he wished to be killed. He could still feel the sword at his throat and he wanted to slap his forehead. He quickly summoned his sword, maneuvering it so it pointed right at Treize’s crotch.

Three laser pistols quickly joined Treize’s sword, “ I wouldn’t do that if I were you, “ Peryite warned. “ Now, put that wretched thing away and come out where we can see you. “

Mehrunes fumbled around on the hilt of the sword. There was no way he would come out of the passage alive. His pride would not allow him to give up to the three children and the smug bastard with the sword at his throat. He found the jewel he was looking for and pushed it, shutting his eyes tightly.

He let out a pained scream as the thin rod skewered him through his clothes, imbedding itself in the floor of the tunnel. He released the gem, realizing he had missed his body entirely. Treize took a step back, “ Set the guns to stun. “

Mehrunes watched as three hands came down and flipped switches on their respective guns. He closed his eyes and cried out in real pain as he slipped out of consciousness.

**

“ What can we do to him, Master Treize? “ Peryite stood next to Treize as Molag and Clavicus pulled Mehrunes from the tunnel.

Treize walked over and picked up Mehrunes’ blade. “ Anything you wish. Just don’t kill him. I also want to have a turn with him, “ Treize smiled, “ As for this blade, it will have to be destroyed. “

Peryite nodded, “ Do we wait until he comes back to his senses so he knows who is beating him? “

Treize looked down at Mehrunes’ prone form, “ That would suit a man who has honor but since he has none, you can beat him any time you like. Afterwards, I will see what information I can get from him about Bekka and then I will hand him over to Hector. “

Peryite smiled, “ Yes sir. “

Treize watched as Peryite walked over to Mehrunes. He drew back his foot and kicked him as hard as he could. “ That’s for my brother, you jerk. “

Molag kicked him next, “ And mine too! “

Clavicus walked to where he could kick Mehrunes in the crotch. He did (barely missing the bio-mechanical replacement), smirking, “ And that is for my back! “

Treize looked over to the cat/wolf door, seeing Prowler had advanced enough to witness the beating. “ I’ll leave the shadowcat to watch over you. I need to alert Hector that he will have a… guest in the dungeons. “

**

Hector stepped out of the shower, grabbing his towel to dry his body. He grinned deliciously as he recalled having a little fun in the same shower with a certain blond/purple haired girl. He glanced towards the tub, remembering how she wanted to try it out as well. Hector really wanted to get his hands on Mehrunes Dagon; he wasn’t done with Bekka yet for he still had to discover if ALL the stories he had heard were true.

Hector had heard rumors about the news report and one of them said that Bekka’s body had been found in the ruins of the Dagon estate. He hadn’t quite resigned himself to the fact that she was gone though. He was sure Bekka wouldn’t go down that easily. ~ It’s a good thing he is gone… If I ever got my hands on that poor excuse for a man, I would have torn him apart.~

He stepped out of the bathroom, wrapping the towel around his mid-section and found someone sitting on his bed. He smiled, “ Treize. What brings you down here? “

Treize grinned, “ I have some good news. “

“ What would that be? “ Hector asked, wondering.

“ You will be getting a temporary guest in the dungeons, “ Treize stood to his feet.

“ A temporary guest? “ Hector leaned against his dresser.

“ He is only going to be temporary because I am quite sure The Lady Bitch is going to eviscerate him as soon as she returns. “

“ And who is this guest? “ Hector asked.

“ Mehrunes Dagon, “ Treize said.

Hector nearly dropped his towel. “ I thought that man was dead. “

Treize shook his head, “ No, he is very much alive and having the living daylights being beat out of him as we speak. “

“ Who’s beating him? “ Hector arched an eyebrow.

“ The ex-bounty hunters, “ Treize chuckled, “ Don’t worry, I told them to save you some. Prowler is supervising them so they don’t go to far. “

“ Well, “ Hector’s smirk became more wicked, “ I will be prepared for him then. Are you going to do something to him? “

“ I am going bring him down here to interrogate him. I want to see if he has any information on Bekka and then I shall hand him over to you. Please be gentle; Gina wants him to stay alive. “

Hector nodded, “ I’ll have him begging for her to kill him. “

Treize walked to the door, “ Oh. I have something that needs to be thrown into the smelting fires. Do you think you can get that taken care of? “

“ Sure. What is it? “

“ Mehrunes’ sword. “

**

Mehrunes woke up to find himself chained in a dingy room. He could feel the dampness in the air and he realized he was in the dungeons. He had been stripped down to his pants and his flesh was marred with cuts and bruises. He struggled to recall what had happened and remembered being stunned.

“ Damn them! If I ever get out of here… “ He said out loud to himself.

“ Who said you were ever getting out of here? “ Treize stepped out of a corner of the cell.

“ You bastard, “ Mehrunes snarled. “ You let them do this to me! “

“ I only allowed them to do what was within reason. If Gina didn’t want you for herself, I would have let them kill you, “ Treize walked over to him. “ Peryite still craves blood for what you did to his brother but he respects Gina’s wishes. “

“ What does that bitch want with me? “ Mehrunes tried to move, a sharp pain shooting through his body.

Treize removed one of his gloves and slapped Mehrunes across the face with it. “ That is LADY Bitch to you. She wants to rid Doom of your type of scum. Tell me, how many have you killed to get to Bekka? “

“ What does that matter? The girl is dead, “ Mehrunes narrowed his eyes.

Treize slapped him again, “ How many, Mehrunes? “

Mehrunes thought for a moment. He decided he had nothing to lose and would answer any questions asked of him. “ Possibly a hundred, if you include the men who stood in my way. “

“ You are a sick man. Was all that murder necessary for one woman who could feasibly be dead because of you? “ Treize looked down at Mehrunes with utter disgust written all over his face. He didn’t believe Bekka was dead; Gina had told him about hearing her voice in a dream.

Mehrunes grinned, his insanity flashing in his eyes, “ Oh yes. The hours of passion I had with her were quite worth it. I can still hear her screaming my name. “

“ I am sure it wasn’t in pleasure or willingly, “ Treize retorted, his voice low.

“ I had a little help but she WAS willing. Are you jealous? “

Treize narrowed his eyes, “ Why would I be jealous of a neutered man? “

“ I am no longer neutered. Thanks to a wonderful doctor, I am a complete man, “ Mehrunes grinned viciously. “ And one of the doctor’s wonderful serums helped me bring her to want me. “

“ You are disgusting, “ Treize whispered. “ The thought of drugging a woman like that is nauseating. “

Mehrunes laughed, “ Perhaps I am but I had her begging for more. Tell me, did YOU ever plow her sweet depths? “

“ I didn’t have to drug her to want ME! “ Treize slapped Mehrunes with the glove again. He wanted to pummel him senseless but he had to keep his anger under control. He slapped him again, “ What other atrocities did you commit to get her to give in? “

Mehrunes spat blood at Treize’s boots, “ I had to keep her restrained. She looked so beautiful tied spread eagle to that bed. “

“ You are making me ill, “ Treize stepped back. “ Your kind really does deserve to die. “

Mehrunes smirked, “ Are you not going to punish me any more? “

“ If I do, I will be forced to kill you myself. I cannot believe you have the nerve to call yourself a man, “ Treize growled.

“ Maybe I am more man that you ever hope to be, “ Mehrunes taunted.

Treize turned on his heel and headed for the door, “ I do not have to listen to this garbage. Normally, you would have been dead by now but I will respect Gina’s wishes and not harm you any further. “

“ You don’t have the balls to kill me yourself? You would rather let a woman do it? “ Mehrunes wasn’t going to let up. He wanted to see how far he could push Treize.

Treize whipped around, “ No. I would do it in an instant but I feel it would be much better for a woman to avenge the ladies you have harmed. “

“ You are just saying that, “ Mehrunes’ smirk was starting to eat away at Treize’s control.

Treize turned back around, continuing to the door. “ I will not stay here any longer and listen to you. If I do, I will have to face Gina’s wrath for destroying you. “

Mehrunes chuckled, “ Coward… “

Treize opened the door, “ Did you hear all of that? “

“ Yes, I did. May I take care of him now? “ The DM’s voice made Mehrunes stop laughing. Matter of fact, it made his blood freeze in his veins.

Treize looked over his shoulder and smiled, “ Yes but remember, he must stay alive. “

**

Nigel flipped the switch on the remote control in his hand, his own image appearing on the screen in front of him. “ Hmmm, blurry, “ He mumbled, adjusting one of the five dials on the control. The picture became clear and he smiled down at the tiny fly-looking thing that sat on the table. “ What a superb device. “

The device he spoke of was M-5’s tiniest spy camera. By using Mehrunes, he found a way into the harem. He would now have a way to get the camera in and use it to search for Maeve. For a moment, he felt a little remorse for how he had tricked Mehrunes but quickly shook it off; the man was getting sloppy and he would have probably gotten the both of them caught if they stayed together.

“ May the gods have mercy on your soul, scumbag… I sure the harem won’t, “ He muttered, continuing to work with the spy camera.