Ransom sighed and ran her hand through her lush red hair. “Papa, what have you done now?"

"It's just a favor for a friend, not anything dangerous.” Tam grumbled to his daughter as he reached somewhat unsteadily for the bottle he had been nursing for several hours.

"A favor for a friend huh? And how much do you owe this ... friend of yours?” She sighed heavily and moved the bottle closer to him on the table. It wasn't the first time her father had gotten them into trouble with his gambling debts, though she sincerely hoped it would be the last.

"Thirty thousand.” Tam said taking a deep pull from the bottle. “So I need you to do this.” He added when he came up for air. “He said it would all be forgotten if you would."

"Thirty thousand dollars?” Ransom's eyes widened as the impact of her father's debt struck home. That was a lot of money for a pair of middle-class wolves with only one income. It would be impossible for her to come up with that kind of money without taking on a second job, maybe a third. Her job as an administrative assistant at the construction company was good enough to make ends meet and keep them comfortable, but there was no way to come up with thirty thousand dollars on that alone.

"That's going to depend on what he asks me to do.” Ransom wasn't comfortable leaving the boundaries open to some unknown person's imagination. Images of herself being forced to satisfy some lecherous old wolf filled her head and she shuddered at the thought.

"I already told him that.” Tam Ferrel reached for his bottle. “See, there's a good girl. I told him you would do it.” He beamed at her through his drunken haze, not even thinking of what his deal might truly cost him.

Ransom knew it was useless to argue. He was the head of the family and she was only his daughter. If her sire had already said she would do it, she didn't have much choice. “Alright, I'll help him, but this is the last time. I mean it, Dad. I'm not getting you out of trouble again."

"I won't have to do anything but act as a distraction?” Ransom verified for her own peace of mind. It seemed a minor thing to repay so much money.

Hector Lunatier nodded. “You've heard about the Grey Pack Bonding coming up? Well, one of the guests there is of particular importance to our Boss. Your job is actually pretty simple. When the breakfast starts, we want you at his table, keeping him talking and keeping him busy. Charm him. Do whatever you have to do, but keep his attention on you."

Hector looked down at the redhead in front of him and smiled. According to Duke Falen the little bitch was nothing but her father's puppet, and had been his puppet for so long, she would simply do whatever was asked of her. Hector had to admire Duke Falen's choice; she wasn't a fighter so they would have little problem with her. Returning to the conversation, he finished, “But first we need to make a few alterations to your appearance. Then we'll tell you how to go about getting close to him."

Ransom wasn't pleased at all to learn that her distraction involved seducing and likely sleeping with the man, but who was she to argue? At least this young Master was hot according to his picture. As an unBonded female, and a lone bitch, her father's rule was law, and he had given her up to these men in order to save himself. She forced herself to keep that thought at the forefront of her mind. As a female, it wasn't up to her to decide what was best for the Pack. She certainly wasn't strong enough to argue with her father, or Hector.

She reminded herself that this was being asked of her to keep her father safe. She had to be realistic and admit that if the sex was good, it was just going to be a perk of the job. After all, as a Lycan bitch, sex was a part of her life, and she had no problem with that aspect of the job. What bothered her was the money issue. For some reason, being free with her favor wasn't nearly as unacceptable as doing it for cash.

She sighed in resigned acceptance. She just had to remind herself she wasn't doing this for the money alone, she was doing this to protect her father and keep him safe. To do that, she was willing to tease and tempt whoever they told her to. “Alright,” she said with a deep sigh of resignation, “let's just get this over with."

Cheri and Ransom were comparing notes on the offerings of the Lycan meat market parading by them as they stood together at Amris and Kiera Grey's Bonding. The two had been friends for years, part of the quiet 'single girls club' that managed to get together at special moments like this to compare notes on past conquests. What Ransom hadn't expected was to find out about the Challenges that Kiera had to undertake to earn her place at Amris’ side, or of Shiri's part in the whole affair.

It hardly surprised Ransom to hear that Shiri had tried to cheat her way to a win; the red haired bitch had always been a win at all costs kind of woman. To learn Cheri had been hurt because of it, and that Kiera had come to Cheri's rescue, made Ransom eager to meet the new Mistress when she got the opportunity.

Unfortunately, she doubted she would ever get the chance. Her mission did not involve Amris or Kiera at all, and she was privately annoyed that she would likely never get the chance to meet them. Her sole target was Horus and once she made contact, she had to keep him focused on her.

Ransom had spotted Horus easily on the dais speaking to Amris. His broad shoulders and imposing stature gave her an involuntary chill. Even if he weren't her target for this little job, Ransom knew that she would have made a point to meet him anyway. The man just oozed power; and for a Lycan female, that was a heady rush. “Now there's a wolf I could climb all over like a jungle gym,” she said with a wicked smile.

"Who Horus? Oh, he's a sweetheart. And funny too. Everyone here looks forward to his visits.” Cheri noted, though she had only glanced to the dais before continuing to scan the crowd. “Have you met?"

Ransom laughed and shook her head. “No, there are just so many people here to meet there's no way to meet them all. I doubt I'll have the opportunity to meet all of these other sires, let alone a Master."

"Oh yes you will.” Cheri laughed and got to her feet, hauling Ransom up next to her. “Come on, let's introduce you."

Ransom laughed with Cheri as she allowed the smaller girl to pull her along. She had a mission and her target had been made clear. Now she only had to make contact. Ransom had watched Horus most of the night before, though it seemed he was unaware of her interest. Carefully she had noted who he interacted with and how. She felt a twinge of guilt using her friendship with Cheri this way but now all her efforts were about to pay off. The smile that lit her eyes was genuine.

Horus was just stepping from the dais when Cheri called his name, Ransom in tow. “Horus, hold up a minute. I want to introduce you to a friend of mine.” The duo came to a stop right in front of him. “Ransom, meet Master extraordinaire, Horus Weret. Horus, this is my friend Ransom.” She let go of Ransom's arm and grinned, proud of herself.

"Um ... Hi. Nice to meet you.” Ransom said somewhat shyly.

When Horus turned to face the young lady being introduced to him, he was momentarily stunned. Her long blonde hair had been arranged in a cascade of curls that framed her face beautifully. She had high cheekbones and the sharpest, most piercing blue eyes. Her lips were a bright red that matched the scarlet dress that clung to her like a second skin. Her smile was dazzling and Horus found himself incapable of looking away.

He had to blink a moment before remembering his manners and shaking the young lady's hand.

"I'm sorry,” Horus said after a moment's pause, “I could have sworn I knew you from somewhere else. You look familiar, somehow.” He took her hand gracefully and touched it to his lips. “Ransom, is it? That's an interesting name."

"That's because I'm an interesting girl."

Ransom's laugh forced Horus to laugh in response. Suddenly he felt he should say something more to her. All evening he had been wondering who she was. Her selection of outfit, her hairstyle, even the way she moved, all reminded him of Janise. Ransom looked enough like her up close. With her hair and her eyes, even her outfit, enough memories were triggered that Horus felt an uncontrollable need to meet and speak with her.

He would have acted earlier but hadn't had the opportunity. Now though, it seemed opportunity had come knocking.

Ransom took a glass from a roaming server, in preparation of the toast. Amris stood and the crowd fell silent in anticipation of his speech, including those behind the rock. She added her cheers to the other voices around her, feeling Horus’ eyes on her. His glances, though brief and well hidden, made her skin tingle.

Suddenly, almost out of nowhere, a young Lycan sire threw himself at the Mistress knocking her to the ground. Amris was shouting something about assassins. Lycans all around her were yelling and screaming. Ransom could have sworn she heard someone say something about poison. She wasn't able to see exactly what happened from her vantage point, all she knew was suddenly the bride was on the ground and surrounded by warriors. Cheri had vanished into the crowd, presumably trying to get a better place to see the action. Horus had leapt back onto the dais to stand beside his friend, and in the space of a few moments Ransom was suddenly left standing alone.

Ransom watched in paralyzed shock as they rushed the new Mistress from the dais, to a nearby house. It wasn't the one she and Amris had come from so it must have been determined a safe haven. She watched the house closely for a few minutes, waiting for any sign of the chaos dying down. She had already picked up on the close friendship between Amris and Horus, and she just knew that Horus was not going to be free for her to work on again until he was assured the bride and groom were safe. She would simply have to bide her time.

Inside Loris’ home, it was chaos. Amris had ordered Kiera to a corner of the room, away from all windows and out of sight of anyone outside. He was taking no chances with her safety and everyone there knew it. Horus, Ryka, Quinten, Khefris and Ra were all standing watching as Amris paced.

He was like a trapped or caged animal, the tension running through him was evidenced by his bunched shoulders.

"They attack her in our own territory?” Amris was fuming. “During the Ceremony?"

"Amris, you need to relax.” Horus said quietly. “Kiera is alright. She's under cover..."

"She's only alright because Silas is as smart as a whip and twice as fast. And I almost killed that pup.” Amris shook his head.

"So what now?” Ryka asked quietly. “Do you have somewhere to hide her?"

Amris shook his head. “No. We'll have to keep her here under guard. Khefris, that'll be your job."

Khefris nodded at once. His willing acceptance of any task Amris gave him was the mark of his dedication, which made him a good Second in Command. “Of course my Lord."

"Well, that takes care of her. But what are you going to do about this attempt?” Ryka was still fascinated by the whole situation. There were many things happening that were out of the ordinary, and he was intrigued at how it was going to play out. He had no doubt his own ally, Fenris, was responsible for the poison plot, but why Ryka hadn't been informed of the plan bothered him. Fenris was subordinate in rank and title to Ryka and to have stepped outside the boundaries of their alliance in this fashion placing Ryka's own Pack at risk as a result, spoke volumes about their alliance.

"Khefris, send Silas to my house. In my den, top left hand drawer of my desk, is a wallet. Have him bring it here.” After Khefris had dispatched the lad, Amris turned to the men present and explained what had happened the night of Jarvis’ death. He explained about tracking Kiera and finding her. He told them all about him preventing her from killing Leo, and then the amazing discovery that he, supposedly, had bought and paid for the assassination and amnesty.

"I took Jarvis’ wallet, hoping to find some clue to follow this whole mess.” He looked at Ryka, trying to gauge the older Lycan's reaction, and said, “And he knew about Lycans. He didn't flinch when I changed, and he understood the authority of a Master. He was certain of his immunity."

"Then that's another mystery to be solved. We need to find out how much he knew, and who else may be aware of us.” Ryka's voice was calm, but his eyes betrayed that his thoughts were as panicked as their own.

All of the men nodded gravely at that. For all of their strength and power, their numbers were few and that made their continued existence a fragile thing. Their secrecy was likely their greatest asset, and if it were lost, their entire race stood to lose. Humanity still believed itself to be alone on this world, and though stories of ghosts, fairies and bogeymen were the stuff of legend, all races shared the common belief that exposure would mean their destruction. The Lycans may not support, or overtly protect their shifting feline cousins for example, but both races worked together to maintain their anonymity.

When the wallet arrived, Amris opened it up and started rifling through it. The money was quickly tossed to the side during their examination then Jarvis’ identification and papers were checked.

"Seems like Jarvis hails from Detroit. He's a long way from home.” Horus commented.

"He's a hired killer. I doubt they have fixed addresses as a rule.” Amris replied.

"Somebody knew how to find him.” Horus answered back.

"What's this?” Ryka held up a credit card receipt. “The Hobart Hotel. In New Albany. Isn't that where he said he met you, Amris?"

"Yes, it is.” Amris finally took a chance to sit down as he studied the material in front of him. He was forming a plan of action and everyone was silent as he thought, but they could all see him twitching as if he were unsettled by something. It was so unlike him, but then, he had never had a Mistress to worry about before.

"Okay. I have an idea what we need to do here. Horus, Detroit is nearer your bailiwick than anyone here. If you're willing to help, you can check out Leo's home town and see what you can find up there."

Horus nodded. “Consider it done."

"I'll head to New Albany and see what I can learn there. Maybe someone at the Hotel remembers Leo and who he actually met with. It could be a big break.” The others nodded in agreement. “Ryka..."

The older Lycan raised his hand. “Amris, please. I understand you want to have this problem dealt with. But I can't help you here. If you are going to bring the results of this investigation to the Gathering then I can, and will, act as a neutral agent there. But I can't be involved any further."

Amris frowned, wanting to argue, but Ryka's own point made sense. Amris had planned to have Ryka face Fenris about the whole thing, since Amris was sure Kiera's uncle was involved somehow. Master Quentin took that opportunity to speak up. “Amris, I can confront Fenris about his role in this a lot easier than you can. Your anger will blind you just as it did during the Challenges whenever he was about. We all saw it. Leave Fenris to me."

Amris nodded in gratitude to his friend and fellow Master. Turning his attention to his second in command he said, “Khefris, you're job is unchanged. When I leave tomorrow morning, Kiera's safety will be under your hand. The Pack is yours until my return."

There were nods all around the room and Amris smiled. For too long they had been reacting to an unseen enemy. Now, at last, they were going to bring the fight out of his territory and flush out this new prey. They were becoming hunters once more and Amris couldn't wait.

Eager to get underway, Amris called the meeting to a close, sending Horus and the others on their way. Then he had the cadre of warriors escort Kiera back to their house, leading the procession himself. There was a peculiar buzzing of his skin, a tingling restlessness he couldn't put a handle on. It hinted, somehow, at the onset of a Fever, but Amris felt none of the other symptoms. It made no sense but he really couldn't take the time to puzzle it out now.

At the front door, the warriors parted ways to allow Kiera entry to her home while Amris held the door open. She moved passed him with short, jerky steps.

Closing everyone else out with the shutting of the door, Amris smiled to her. “Well, that went well."

Kiera rounded on him, her eyes blazing. “Well? That went ... well? And just what part were you the happiest with? That you have me under house arrest, or that you think you are running off to New Albany without me? Because I have news for you, you even try it and I'll hunt you down like a fucking dog.” She couldn't remember being more furious about anything in her life. “If you think for one minute I can't give your ‘guard’ the slip, you've got another thing coming."

The buzzing that was making Amris so edgy, reached a fever pitch, increasing in intensity in direct proportion to Kiera's tirade. When she got louder and more agitated, the buzzing was worse and it was driving Amris nuts.

"What the blazes has gotten into you?” Amris snapped back at once. “It's because of the risk to you that I'm going to New Albany alone to sort out this mess! And if you even think of giving Khefris the slip..."

"What are you going to do? According to your Master Plan you won't even be here!” Kiera had stepped right up to him, her hands on her hips and her chin stuck out.

"You need to stay here where you'll be safe!” He yelled right back at her.

"And what about you? It wasn't my name that Leo was spouting off before he died! Whatever the hell is going on includes you too!"

Amris’ itch was getting worse. He felt an incessant buzzing in his head that was just making him more and more irritable.

"It's my responsibility..."

"Your responsibility?” Kiera screamed at him. “I'm your responsibility!” Amris didn't even have a chance to reply before she had stepped forward. Her left hand was closed into a fist and the index finger of her right hand was poking him in the chest.

"My responsibility is to keep you safe.” Amris snapped, stepping to the side so her finger wasn't jabbing into his chest. He wouldn't retreat, not from his mate. As much as he wanted to slap her hand aside, he couldn't do that either.

"And what about my responsibility to keep you safe? Wasn't it just last night I made a vow to protect you with my life? Or have you forgotten that already?” Kiera fired back though she made no move to follow him.

"Of course I haven't forgotten.” Amris dismissed the idea with a wave of his hand. The buzzing in his head had turned to a dull roar. His skin felt like he was covered in ants, all eager to take their piece of him. He was trying to put his thoughts in order when Kiera slid into the moment of silence.

"But I'm supposed to just sit here and wait while you go gallivanting off to face God-knows-what. No. I won't do it.” She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. Amris was looking like he was getting a headache and as much as Kiera wanted to make her point she wasn't interested in making his life even more difficult. Amris’ symptoms abated slightly with that breath. “You can sit back and make all the plans you want to. Ignore me. Pretend I'm not in the room or don't even exist ... that's fine. But don't expect me just to fall in line with them when you don't even bother to consult me."

Amris closed his eyes and tried to push the dull roar out of his head. The itchy feeling he'd had already begun to abate, even as Kiera had begun to calm down and take deep breaths. Yet the roar in his head hadn't left at all. He had no idea what it could mean, and really had no time to consider it. All he wanted to do now was calm her down.

"Look, Kiera, I didn't mean to exclude you from the planning if that's what you're upset about. It was just natural to work out the plan with Horus and Ryka and...” And the itch came back. “Wait. Stop. Don't give me that look. You know I would have talked to you if we'd had time."

Kiera's fierce gaze met her mate's across the space of the inches separating them. “We have time now, because you're not going anywhere until we've sorted this out. Even then, you're not going anywhere without me.” Her hands went back to her hips and her legs spread slightly as she took a firm stance between him and the door, punctuating her protest.

Amris appreciated the fact that she wasn't yelling anymore, because the truth of the matter was, she was right. The situation had changed as of last night. She was no longer the helpless bitch that needed the big, strong Pack Master to keep her safe. He should have included her in the planning, and he should have spoken to her first, and then presented his ... their plan to Horus and Ryka and Khefris. They were Bonded now, and as much as it was his role to protect her with his life, she had accepted that role for him as well. He had to smile at the idea of her protecting him. “Kiera, I appreciate the offer, but I can take care of myself."

Kiera smiled a wicked little smile as she opened her robe exposing her naked body and Amris smiled, thinking he had won. Then he was on his back before he had even realized she had moved. “Oh, really?” Kiera looked down into his shocked face. “You can, can you?"

Amris felt the change in her and in himself. Her expression of absolute fury was touched by the worry he saw in her eyes. “Can you protect yourself from a bullet Superman?” The memories of finding her brother so completely devastated by a silver-laced gunshot haunted her even now.

"Leo is dead.” Amris tried to hold his ground as much as he could but he felt himself losing the battle with every passing minute. He knew she was still struggling through the loss of her brother. He had thought that by bonding with him, he would have been able to help her past that pain.

"And? You're absolutely positive he never told anyone about us? Yours is going to be the name that anyone he talked to, knows. Don't you get it?” Tears of fury and frustration were filling her eyes and she angrily shook her head to clear her vision. “You wanted to rush into this. You wanted us Bonded as soon as possible. You couldn't wait. Fine, now you've got me and I can't ... I won't live without you."

He wanted to yell at her. He wanted to tell her it wasn't going to be that way. That he was going to be careful. Then one of her tears landed on his cheek and any argument he might have had was blown away. The itch that had been bothering him was gone, and the rush filling his head had changed to a muted roar. With a flash of insight, he was able to identify the sensation and its cause. Her anger; her frustration; the sense that he had essentially betrayed her trust had come rushing at him through the Bond. It hadn't been the Fever at all, it had been Kiera.

"I...” He reached up and cupped her face. “You won't...” His thumb gently traced along the side of her nose and another tear touched his skin. The roaring in his head swelled beyond anything he had ever known, but now he understood it. It was the same type of pain that she would be feeling if he left her behind. Just as she had felt him and Bonded to him last night, now he could feel her.

"I ... shit. Kiera, I love you, beautiful. And I trust you with my life. I would die if something happened to you.” He kissed her on the tip of her nose. He could feel the thrumming in his system dying down even further. “So ... let's ... discuss this."

Kiera stretched out so she was more laying along his long, lean body, than laying on him. Her hands were steepled on his chest and she rested her chin in them. “All right. We'll discuss. Then I'll start packing for us."

Amris tilted his head to look at her, a brow raised. “That confident of yourself are you? I'll tell you right now I'm not convinced taking you with me is the best thing for either of us. It's just too damn dangerous."

"Then you're not going either. If it's too dangerous for me, it's certainly too dangerous for you. You keep ignoring the fact that your name is the one people are going to recognize. Not mine. I could go much easier alone.” She was quiet for a moment. “Actually that's not a bad idea. Slip away. Check things out. Do a little digging. You can stay and take care of the Pack.” She nodded considering, “It could work."

"Are you out of your mind?” Amris started to sit up but her hand was firm on his chest and her eyebrow was raised in a perfect imitation of his own.

"See my point?” She smiled a Cheshire Cat grin, knowing the argument was already won, he just didn't realize it yet. Or maybe he did.

Amris lay back down and looked up at the ceiling. He still didn't want to look her in the eye and admit she was right. So when she inched up to look at him he closed his eyes and sighed. After all, he reasoned, if she could be stubborn about this, he could be stubborn for just a little while longer.

Kiera smirked, feeling the give in him. It was more of a sense of change than any physical reaction. She kissed his chin lightly, running the tip of her tongue along the strong line. “I knew you could be made to see reason.” She moved up his chin to the corner of his mouth with several little kisses. “I'll have to remember to use a bigger hammer next time.” She added with a chuckle.

"I'm not trying to be unreasonable, Kiera.” Amris replied with a sigh. “Really, I'm not. You know it's in my blood to protect my Pack, and my family, and now you. It just seems to go against everything I feel inside to put you in danger."

"Honey, I'm not trying to be difficult either.” Kiera sighed in return. “I have spent most of my life protecting my family too. I don't know how else to be. As much as I'm part of your Pack, you're also my family too. I can't help it. I can't just sit back, do nothing and let you take all the risks. We're in this together; so let us be together."

Amris opened his eyes slowly and looked at her, meeting her eyes. He saw the need within her that matched the one within him. Understanding dawned on him, and he nodded.

The day was turning into a disaster for Ransom. When she had sent her father a note about the poisoning attempt, he had been justly horrified. Then, less than ten minutes later, he had come back with a new set of instructions. Apparently, she was being accused of failing in her original mission, and Hector was angry. Now she had new orders. Hector wanted her to entertain Horus through the night, and try to find out what he was going to do next. She hardly needed to ask what Hector meant by entertaining him, but she doubted Horus would be interested in a casual hook-up after the day they'd just had.

She had asked her father if he was certain of the message, and his reply had been almost instantaneous.

[Just do it.]

It had taken more courage than she thought she had to approach Shiri and ask the favor, but Shiri was more than eager to lend a hand. Shiri was upset at the assassination attempt as well, and have every intention of working out her stress with Ra later. It only stood to reason that Ransom would be looking to do the same. So, they'd taken up a position where they would be able to see Horus approach the house, and settled down to wait. It was actually several hours later when Ransom saw him stride into view. He looked so worn and worried she almost didn't go through with the plan. However, there was too much of her family's future depending on her, so she took a deep breath to steel her resolve, then stood up.

She started moving forward to meet him, a perfect expression of concern and anxiety placed onto her face when Shiri placed a hand on her forearm and stopped her. “Let me talk to him first."

Horus stopped short when he saw Shiri's approach, surprised to find the two women waiting for him.

"Master Horus,” Shiri started off easily enough, but Horus noticed the use of his title at once and knew this was an official meeting, “we have a bit of a problem with my friend here. It seems most of her Pack has already left for home, and she is looking for somewhere to spend the night."

Horus frowned down at the redhead. “And you brought her to me?"

Shiri sighed and lowered her voice, stepping as close to Horus as she dared. Everyone was jumpy after the assassination attempt and she didn't want Horus even considering she was thinking of attacking him. He had a personal space and she had to respect it, but she also needed to get her message across. “Horus ... let her stay. Please. She's young and pretty, and you need this."

Horus was about to tell Shiri to mind her own business when Ransom stepped forward.

"Is everything alright? Is Mistress Kiera safe?” She carried just the right amount of worry in her voice. “What a shame. It was such a beautiful ceremony."

"Yes, everything is all right. Kiera is fine, and Amris is going to keep her here, safe and sound.” Then he allowed himself a smile. “And yes, it was still a beautiful ceremony.” Horus turned his gaze to Shiri for a moment before looking back at Ransom. “I hear you need a place to stay tonight?"

Ransom bit her lip and blushed, then steeled herself and blurted out. “Yes, I do.” Then she was waving her hands. “But it's not like that! It's just ... I mean, Mistress Kiera was almost poisoned today! Whoever did it could still be here, and it's kind of frightening and I don't want to be afraid, but I can't help it. I wanted to stay and make sure Mistress Kiera was alright and then the rest of my Pack left without me. Someone is supposed to come back and get me tomorrow. In the meantime, I'm sort of alone."

Ransom saw that he was watching her with a touch of concern, but it was also tinged with that typical male need to protect the bitches. Ransom knew that as a Pack Master, that need was strong in him, so she twisted the screws.

"It'll just be for tonight. I don't want to impose, or anything like that!” She looked into his eyes and quietly added, “I'll just feel safer."

Horus had planned on spending the night on the phone, locating his contacts in Detroit, and making his arrangements to head for the Motor City. He really hadn't planned on playing guardian to a frightened young bitch, but he didn't really see any reason why he couldn't do both. Odds were, she would be out of his way and not be a burden anyway. After all, she was only going to be around for the one night. Besides, Horus was hardly the type to refuse a lady in distress, especially a beautiful one.

"Sure, Ransom.” He smiled politely, shielding his natural desire for the beautiful blonde and letting his protective nature take over. “If it'll make you feel better you can spend the night."

Ransom beamed at him, giving him the full wattage of her smile. “Oh, thank you so much Master Horus.” She rushed forward as if to hug him, then seemingly caught herself in mid stride. “Thank you.” She had to hide the self-satisfied smirk. Lycan males were such suckers for a helpless pretty face.

Horus turned back to Shiri, whose sly smile could only mean she had more in mind for the two of them than just sleeping. “Okay, you've done your good deed for the day, Shiri. Now, why don't you run along? I left Ra over at Loris’ place."

"Gotcha.” Shiri gave them both a wink before turning and dashing off into the night without another word.

Within the hour Ransom was making herself at home in the second bedroom of Horus’ guest house. Keeping true to her word, she had made herself scarce, keeping to her room and reading. Occasionally she ventured out for a bathroom break or to raid the kitchen for snacks using the opportunity to keep an eye on her prey.

She didn't really have to do much, now. The research Hector had provided turned out to be accurate and it had been a pure stroke of genius to order blue contact lenses. Hector had seemed to think the change in hair color made her appear enough like Janise to make Horus look twice. Ransom hadn't been satisfied with just changing her hair color and had added to the effect herself. She wanted to guarantee his attention, and the more she looked like his lost love, the easier that was going to be.

The next major move of her plan would occur after dark. Once the moon was up, she was virtually assured of having Horus’ complete and undivided attention.

After letting Ransom into the house and showing her the guest room, Horus let her have the run of the place. He secretly hoped that she had worked her way into the house with that feeble story just to get to know him better. Maybe she had the hots for him, too. It had been some time since he'd had a female, and after ... that other one, maybe he was due to start looking again. He chuckled at the very thought of that pretty, young thing in the other room, being interested in him. He was easily three times her size and way too rough around the edges to attract a lady like that. It was nice to dream though, and maybe the ceremony she had just witnessed would be enough to tempt her.

He sighed in resigned frustration at the thought. That hardly appeared to be the case. Since he had brought her in all she had done was hide in her bedroom. He had offered her what she could get out of the kitchen, although he had secretly hoped she would stay and talk with him at the computer. Instead, she had just scooped up a plate of snacks and vanished once more into her room.

Sitting at his computer desk, his thoughts kept going back to the strange girl in his guestroom and how much she looked like Janise. Her whole appearance just reminded Horus of the disaster he had never really gotten past. Just watching Ransom move around the guest house made him want her. The way she bent over at the waist when she looked in the fridge, the way she flipped her hair casually out of the way, the sway of her hips when she walked back to her room. It was enough to drive a wolf insane. After watching her walk back to her room with a bowl of ice cream, he had to shake his head and forcibly bring his mind back to the real problem at hand.

He had managed to drop a couple e-mails to some old friends in Michigan and was glad to already get some replies. He had even been promised a room at a Lycan-owned hotel that would ensure his anonymity. That was a bonus. He figured he would be able to save the Pack a bit of money and reduce the paper trail to Detroit by traveling by train.

Being a part of the crowd was going to be important. Horus could only assume that whoever had hired Jarvis would be waiting for a report. Since Jarvis was long dead, they would be getting antsy for information. Unless they already knew he was dead. Shit. There were too many unanswered questions, but hopefully not for much longer.

He turned off his computer then light in the living room, and was just heading to his room when Ransom opened the door to her room and crossed to the washroom. He didn't know where she had found it, but the small flimsy negligee was just transparent enough that her curves were clearly defined. It was short enough her strong, smooth thighs were bare, and the curve of her buttocks was barely covered. Horus could have sworn he had even caught sight of a dark nipple under the sheer red material and it made him freeze in his tracks.

He was waiting for her to shriek or jump or do something after he had seen her, but she kept going into the washroom and closed the door. She hadn't seen him! He heard the sink running for a minute or two, then the door opened and she crossed the hallway again. This time, the light from the bathroom shone through her negligee and he caught a perfect glimpse of everything Ransom had to offer ... and it was quite an offering!

Then she was gone, and her bedroom door closed with a soft click. Still, she hadn't said anything. Horus was certain now that the lights being out had prevented him from being seen. Moving as quietly as possible, which for a Pack Master was soundless, Horus made his way to his own room. It was just next door to Ransom's and when he closed his own door he sighed and closed his eyes. He felt like a voyeur in his own house. She was a guest after all, and he had offered her protection. By the Moon, how was he going to protect her from himself? Simple, he answered himself, just close your eyes and go to sleep. Yeah, right.

Ransom had never been as nervous as she was standing on the other side of her bedroom door. Everything was going according to plan and she was in the perfect position to take advantage of Horus’ weakness. All she had to do now was wait for him to make his move. She heard his bedroom door close and jumped, startled. She must have just missed him in the hallway. Dammit, she thought, what do I do now? Isn't he supposed to come to me? I'm here, I'm ready, and God knows I'm dressed for the occasion. What am I doing wrong? Maybe that's it. I just need to let him see me and he'll be all over me.

Her fingers wrapped around each other as she wrung her hands in agitation. She couldn't do it. She couldn't just go in there and seduce him. She wasn't the experienced vixen she had been given the role of. She could hardly walk in and ask for his favor. That was just so ... beyond her. Moon and Stars, what if he saw right through her? Master Horus wasn't a stupid man, and she was certain that Hector had underestimated him when he gave her this assignment.

Nervously she paced the small room as she tried to find the courage to take the next step. There was no question she had to, Hector had made that clear. Not only would they have to sell everything they owned and then some to pay off her father's debt if she didn't, but Hector would make sure Master Quentin found out about it, which would be disastrous all around. She had no choice, she had to go through with the plan. Diligently, she had been trying to convince herself that she wasn't whoring herself out for her father. She wanted to believe that this was something different. She had to do this to preserve his dignity and to keep their life intact.

Ransom caught a glimpse of herself in the reflection of the full-length mirror. She was certainly dressed for seduction. It might not be as difficult as she thought it would be. The sheer baby doll negligee showed off her body rather advantageously. If Horus was a typical male, he wouldn't look much farther than that. Unfortunately, if Ransom had learned anything in her investigation of him, she knew Master Horus was anything but typical.

There was nothing to do but get it over with. If he fell for it; great. If not then she would have to fall back on Plan B. Of course, if she even had a clue what Plan B might be, she would have felt better about that. Regardless, it was now or never. If she didn't move to the door right now, she would lose her nerve completely. Ransom was nothing if not honest with herself at least. She shot one more glance to the window, which was propped open, a breeze rustling the curtains.

Taking a deep breath for courage, she rushed from the room and stopped short in the hall. Aware of Master Horus’ acute hearing, she tapped lightly on his door, her own nervousness put a tremble and an edge in her voice which made her fear sound all the more convincing. “Ma ... Master Horus?"

Horus was sitting on his bed in a quiet lotus position, trying to gain control of his breathing and his personal center. There was no reason for him to be letting Ransom get under his fur like she was, but he could certainly understand why it was happening. He had thought he had put that whole problem with Janise behind him. He thought he had been free and clear of her and the whole turmoil she had dropped into his lap. And he had been. Then in walks some pretty little stranger with blonde hair and blue eyes and he gets all stupefied again.

His breathing was all for shit, and his focus wasn't where it needed to be. Just how common were blue eyes among Lycan females, anyway? He sighed and started forcing himself to center, but calm just can't be forced. It either comes, or it doesn't. Then he heard his name at the door.

"I ... I'm sorry.” Ransom said the moment he opened the door, her eyes wide and hands twisting, obviously agitated about something. “I heard a noise at the window ... would you just take a look?"

She was scared, no doubt about that, but she was also as sexy as hell. Did she realize how much he could see through that thing she had on? Did she even care?

"The window to your room?” Ransom simply nodded and Horus moved past her into her bedroom. Though she had only been in the room for a short time, it seemed as if she had lived there for years. Her scent permeated the very walls and of course, it was strongest behind him where she stood watching.

She placed her hand lightly on his forearm, and his breath caught for a moment. For some reason he suddenly didn't want her to remove her hand and he was thankful for the soft touch. How the hell could that little contact make him feel so strong?

He moved closer to the window and sniffed carefully. Any intruder might be able to hide in the shadows near the house, but they wouldn't be able to hide from the finely tuned senses of a Pack Master. There was nothing there, but then, he really hadn't expected to find anything, anyway.

"No one there, Ransom. It's all clear.” She must have been really frightened by something though, because she was almost in his skin now and she was trembling like a leaf.

"Thank you, Master Horus, thank you."

"It's okay, Ransom ... and you can call me Horus. The Master is, well ... you can call me Horus.” With Ransom standing as close as she was, it was no wonder her scent filled the room. That didn't explain why Horus found it so hard to breathe right now.

"Thank you ... Horus.” Her breath was warm on his skin as she closed the scant distance between them and laid her lips against his. This was the moment of truth. She would succeed or fail here. If he returned the kiss, she had the opportunity to take it farther. If he pushed her away, she had no choice but to gather the scraps of her dignity and move on. She was nervous and scared as hell, so her lips actually trembled when they touched his. She thought for certain there was no way he was interested now. She was just a silly she-wolf for thinking she had any chance of seducing a Master! She wanted to cry at her failure.

If she could have seen three seconds into the future, Ransom would have known she needn't worry. Horus’ arms came around her tightly, molding her body to his as he returned the kiss with passion. His tongue slid between her lips to deepen it with a hunger that overwhelmed her.

With their mouths still locked together, Horus slid his arms underneath her and scooped her off her feet. A thrill of fear tinged with excitement, ran through her when she realized he was carrying her out the door and into his own room. When he kicked the door closed behind them, suddenly plunging the room into darkness, she was disoriented for but a moment. It seemed her plan had worked almost too well. She hoped now that she was up to the challenge of a horny Master.

Her kiss had surprised him at first, but then that surprise had quickly changed to something akin to a desperate, hungry need. Horus had thought at first that Ransom had been trying to trick him into bed. That she was attempting a seduction so she could claim to have bedded a Master. Yet her lips had been trembling, and her fear had been a palpable thing. She was no temptress and no seductress. She was, to Horus, what she appeared to be. A frightened, pretty young bitch, who needed to have a Master to feel safe. Horus had been too long without a female to share his bed. It had been too long since Janise. Now this young woman was offering herself to him and he was more than willing to accept.

Though smaller than most Lycan males in height, Horus more than made up for it in his broad chest and large shoulders. His arms were strong and muscular. His legs were like granite pillars. Next to him, Ransom seemed so petite as to be almost breakable, but hurting her, was not his intention.

One hand was still cupping her bare bottom as his other hand cradled her to his chest. Their mouths were still locked together in a passionate kiss, and Horus found himself memorizing her taste. Even in the absolute darkness, Horus had no difficulty making it to the bed. They broke the kiss only for a moment; long enough for Horus to verify for himself this was truly what she wished.

There was a touch of fear there; but that was to be expected, he thought. After all, he was a strong male. She had come to him for protection, and she hadn't resisted his touch. It seemed to Horus as if she had surrendered herself to the inevitable. He didn't know if he was rushing her, or if her fear would quickly give way to the desire he was picking up off of her, but he was determined to find out. His hand slid over her body until his thumb was poised over her clit. Then he rubbed her gently, pleased to find her own heat had made her sex wet enough for his finger to slip inside and stroke her.

Her sigh was pleasing to his ear. When she closed her eyes and opened her legs for his touch, he knew any fear or resistance had faded in that instant. Then he added a second finger to her moist sex.

The moment his fingers brushed her, Ransom forgot all about ulterior motives and the reason she was there. By the Stars, he felt so good. She moaned slightly, wrapping one leg around his muscular thigh as she opened herself eagerly to his touch. He was not rough. Certainly he was not using all of his strength, but he was male. He was determined now, and he demanded a certain satisfaction from his woman. She had started this and now she would have to see it through. Her momentary fear at what she had just become was dispelled when he began stroking her with a second finger. Suddenly, being with him wasn't so much a chore as a delight.

Horus was a big man, and Ransom found him both intimidating and exciting. There was no doubt he could hurt her, yet the gentleness of his touch was quite a surprise. He was obviously incredibly strong. Ransom could easily find sanctuary and protection in his embrace. It would be all too easy to get used to, but then he was a Master and that was to be expected.

His mouth was on hers, over hers, his tongue invading her mouth with the precision of a well-trained soldier. She had to break the kiss to gasp and catch her breath. She arched her back, offering her breasts to him. “Please...” she said softly, wanting that warm caress of his mouth on her nipples. Her hand reached lower down his body and under the waistband of his sleep pants to wrap around his length. The sheer size alone caused her to gasp again. He was a big man in every sense.

He groaned at her touch and though her fingers didn't reach her thumb as she grasped him, he could still feel her squeezing him. Responding to her desire his hand gently cupped her breast and he brought her nipple to his mouth, pushing the scant negligee out of the way.

When his wet mouth closed over her rosy pebble, she sighed and he suckled it gently, teasing the hard point with his tongue and teeth. The little sounds of pleasure she was making, as he tasted her only served to inflame his own desire. She was still squeezing his length and he shifted slightly in order to allow her to push his pants off his hips with her free hand.

They separated only long enough for him to pull her negligee from her body and for her to divest him of his pants. His hard shaft bobbed and twitched against her cheek, but she didn't flinch from the contact and Horus was suddenly overwhelmingly pleased. He sighed as she once more held him in her hands, and he hoped that his size had not scared her more than she might already be.

He could still sense her fear and her trepidation, but it was tinged with a scent of growing lusty desire. She had been scared before starting, but now that they had begun, Ransom was allowing her own needs to take shape. Horus was glad for that because he was too far along now to want to stop.

He took her by the shoulders and lifted her onto the bed kissing her once more. Kneeling next to her, he pulled her close, allowing his shaft to rub along her belly between them. Her skin was warm to the touch and he couldn't imagine his great fortune at having her in his bed. As his fingers threaded into her hair, he pulled her head back and kissed her throat, grazing it with his teeth before his head dipped lower to once more suckle her warm breasts. He had already learned that her nipples were small caps of desire for her, and the more attention he paid to the rosy nubs, the more excited Ransom would become.

Ransom let him have his way with her. As a Lycan alpha male, he would not respond well to anything less than complete control, yet this small inner demon drove her to test that theory. Her fingertips ran along his length measuring the width and breadth of him. She gasped again though whether it was his teeth on her skin as he toyed with her nipple or the sheer size of him, she couldn't say.

She leaned back into his arms, letting him support her as her mind turned and roiled. There was no turning back now for either of them. He had her wet and aching and she couldn't wait for him to satisfy that ache. Her inner demon would not be silenced and she leaned into him, pushing him back until he was overbalanced and she was on top of him. Her core left a searing trail along his stomach as she leaned over him, her breast remaining level with his mouth.

His shaft stood straight up behind her, brushing against her backside. Ransom wiggled back slightly, using the cleft of her bottom to rub lightly along his length. Her moans were peppered with small whimpers and gasps as she felt the pressure build within her, heralding the oncoming explosion to her senses.

Horus fell onto his back, accepting her initiative for the time being. For him, he could enjoy a sensual, seductive foreplay as well as the next wolf. Her breasts glided across his face and lips and she moaned when he pinched her nipple to hold it steady. When his tongue flicked out over the hard pebble, she groaned and forced her nipple deeper into his mouth. When she stroked his shaft with her bottom, Horus had to groan himself. He could feel how wet she was as she slid over his belly. He reveled in the sensation of her buttocks as it slid up and down along the length of his shaft. The folds of her sex were slick, and he could imagine in his mind's eye how they looked. His hands released her breasts, leaving their care to his lips and teeth alone.

Trailing his fingertips over her skin, he traced the curve of her hips with his touch and delighted in her moans and sighs as he squeezed the soft flesh of her ass. His cock was surging upward between the cheeks of her flesh. She was still sliding her sex along his length, and he held her gently but firmly, helping her in her motion.

When she reached the top of his penis, he held her in place. He was through with the teasing. He was through with the soft, sensual glide of her sex along his length. Now he wanted more. He slipped his hand underneath her and over her belly so he could touch the folds of her sex, and gently spread her open. She was small, light, and petite in his arms, reminding him of a fragile china doll. Nonetheless, she was also Lycan and her needs, like his, would not be denied. He pressed the large head of his manhood against the lips of her open sex. He wanted to force himself upward, driving into her, taking her as a sire took his bitch, but he waited. Though it took an enormous effort from him, he looked up into her eyes wanting to see her need. He wanted to know the desire and the lust was as strong in her as it was in him, and he wanted her to be the one to finish the act itself.

Ransom moaned as he rubbed against her. At first, she didn't realize his intentions, simply moving with him. She was so close that the mere brush of his tip against her open slit set off the fuse. As if preparing him for her body, she coated his throbbing member with her release. Even through the quivering and squirming, though, her eyes widened in surprise. He felt much bigger against her sex than he had in her hand.

She started to shake her head but his hand had snaked around and he flicked her clit with the tip of his thumb. The sudden stimulation made her throw her head back and scream in pleasure as her legs gave way sliding her an inch down his length. Her body adjusted to the massive length working into it becoming more accepting of his size with each stroke of his thumb. Slowly, wiggle by wiggle and bit by bit she took him deep inside her core. There was only a moment of discomfort, filled beyond belief. When it passed, there was only, wonderfully ... incredibly ... pure bliss.

By the time he was fully seated within her, she was a writhing, quivering mass. Her hands planted squarely on his chest supporting her as she lifted herself from him completely. After only a moments hesitation she dropped back down with a cry of sheer joy and a rush of feminine silk as she climaxed again.

Her scream was a mix of both pain and pleasurable release and Horus could only cry out with her as she lowered herself onto him once more. A touch of sweat had already creased her brow, but she gamely worked once more at edging herself up his length. He'd had his share of concubines before Janise, and they had all struggled with his size. Some of them had even apologized for being unable to handle him, leaving him alone and unsatisfied. Yet here was Ransom, enjoying herself as much as he was.

In Ransom's case, she seemed, in fact, to be enjoying his problem and was working hard to please him. It touched him deeply and he saw her struggles in a new light. His hand went to the side of her face and he stroked her cheek gently. “Do not hurt yourself, Ransom..."

Then she reached the bottom once again and Horus cried out with the tight pressure around his shaft. He couldn't restrain the natural desire to hold her hips and guide her along his length now. She controlled the speed and tempo of their union, but his hands on her hips gave him a sense of power beyond simply taking her over and over again.

Her sex gripped him like a velvet glove, squeezing his length as she rode him, gently and carefully. He knew he was larger than any of her previous lovers, and he had seen the momentary fear before she had accepted him fully. However, her gentle motions not only served now to make it more pleasurable for her, but he was becoming overwhelmed with the steady, deep strokes.

"Ransom...” His voice was a hoarse whisper, “I...” She seemed to know what he wanted. As carefully as she could, she increased her tempo, just enough to make him arch his back in ecstasy. Then, at just the perfect moment, she dropped down his full length and he cried out, releasing himself inside her.

Ransom rocked her hips, riding him through the wave of his orgasm. After a few moments, she raised cautiously from him. It amazed her how well they seemed to fit together. It was as if they were reading each other's minds and understanding each other's touch, making words unnecessary. They seemed to operate on an instinctive level together, falling perfectly in sync with their union.

Weakly Ransom collapsed on top of Horus, panting as she tried to catch her breath and certain she would never walk the same again. Her legs straightened, as she ran her instep down his calf. “Mmmm, that was nice.” She said, kissing him with a completely satisfied smile. She was free and happy and just had the best sex of her life. What could be better?

He grinned up at her and gently returned her kiss. “That was very nice.” His tone was as tender as the touch of his hand on her cheek. He gently brought her head down to his and kissed her lips. Her skin was warm and he enjoyed the feeling of her arms around him. He knew she had to be sore, but she hadn't run off.

They lay together, then, lost in their own thoughts. Physically they couldn't let each other go. It dawned on Ransom that she was done. She had been successful in the mission given her, and had even enjoyed herself in the process. Granted, she suspected her father's creditors anticipated more from her, but this was going to be as good as it got. She had held up her end of the bargain to the letter. To have seen the smile on Horus’ face made this worth it. She didn't feel like a whore in his arms right now. He made her feel like a lover, and she silently thanked him for his ignorance.

Horus’ thoughts drifted back to earlier in the day. He had seen Ransom at the Ceremony and some instinctive resonance inside him had made him try and find out more about her, but no one seemed to know who she was. When he had discovered that she was scoping him out in return, it surprised him. He had suspected even then that she might simply be interested in making time with a Pack Master, as many young bitches enjoyed doing. Her similarity to Janise had prompted his initial interest but he still hadn't planned on making her night. Then she had made up that silly excuse about being left behind ... so transparent. And noises at her window? Please.

However, she hadn't run when she'd seen what she was getting into, and that had surprised him. If it had been a fling she was after, she would have been scared. Even afterward, she should be heading for her own room to recover. Why was she staying with him now?

She had already rested her head on his chest and he could see her eyes closed and the small smile on her lips. She was happy and satisfied.

Where the thought came from, he had no idea, but suddenly a vision of them together in Detroit made him smile. It had been too long since he'd had a bitch at his side. As Pack Master, wasn't he due one, at least once in a while? But ... would she want to go through this again? As a Pack Master, he knew he could almost demand it of her, but as Horus, he knew he could never do that. He couldn't believe his good fortune. By the Moon, she was smiling!

As gently as he could, Horus rolled over to his side, pulling her petite body next to his, and covering them both with a light blanket. He had to smile when her arms went around him naturally. She seemed content enough now, but what would the morning bring? Horus promised himself to make no rash decisions until then. When he closed his eyes and went to sleep, it was with a goofy, quirky smile on his face, totally unbefitting a Pack Master. Here in the privacy in his own room, he could give himself the luxury of contentment. More importantly, he could allow his lonely, romantic heart to hope.

Ransom woke, warm and secure in Horus’ arms. It took her a moment to orient herself and figure out what had woken her. She looked up into Horus’ sleeping face and sighed softly. He was really a nice guy and she had thoroughly enjoyed herself with him, but it was time to go home. It was time to stop pretending to be a shadow of his former lover, and return to her own life.

A dull ache throbbed in her nether regions reminding her of last night. She would love to explore Horus’ passion and sexuality even further, and if situations had been different, she would have offered. As it was, she felt dirty. She had been used by Hector and in turn used herself with Horus. It was a shameful position to be in and one that she was thankful she could leave behind when she walked out the door. She was done with whoring herself.

Quietly she slipped from the bed, padding to her own room for a change of clothes and her cell phone. Minutes later the bathroom was filled with steam and she was easing into a tub of water as hot as she could stand. It would not only help ease the soreness but also clean some of the stain on her soul.

Laying back in the tub she flipped open the cell phone and keyed in the text message.

[I'm done here. Be home soon.]

She sent her message off to her father. She wanted Tam to know that he was free now. Hector could leave him alone. Closing her eyes, she tried to block out her disturbing thoughts and just relax.

Almost immediately, the phone vibrated in her hand with a reply.

[500 credited to your account. Stick with the target. Report everything.]

Ransom sat up straight in the tub. What was this? She was supposed to be done! Five hundred dollars? By the Moon, she was a whore. Now she was supposed to continue to spy on Horus and report ... What? ... His activities? ... Why? What the hell was going on here?

[No, I'm done.]

She fired off the text message.

The return message was short and sweet.

[Do as you're told or don't come home.]

Ransom stared at the screen in shock. ‘Don't come home.’ Don't come home? Stars and Moon, what was Tam saying? She felt so sick at the sight of the message she thought she was going to faint. This was wrong. She had to fight to keep from bursting into tears. She should be done. She should be ready to take her own life back. It wasn't fair she was stuck in the position of paying off her father's debt. Not this way. She was angry and frustrated and hated the idea of having to keep up the pretense. She shut off her phone without even saying goodbye to her father. What had he done to her? How could he? She fought back the tears and brought her hands to her face. She wanted to just hide from everyone now, even turning her gaze from her own reflection in the bath water. He had made her a whore. She had sold her body for him and now he wanted more.

She washed herself more times than she could count. She felt dirty for tricking Horus like she had, but even worse, she knew she had to do it again. She forced herself to remain calm, to drive the spark of rebellion back and bury it. Those thoughts would do her no good. Horus was a Master and would pick up on any sign of distress. While it might work in her favor later, she didn't want to have to explain herself now. Not when she had to figure out a way to stay with him.

When he rolled over in that half-sleep state before full wakefulness, Horus had expected to meet some resistance. When it didn't come, he opened his eyes to an empty bed, and an even emptier room. She was gone, and he was alone. Again.

He lay back and sighed. Ransom had been fun last night. It had been spontaneous, well, maybe not that spontaneous, because he was certain she had planned the whole thing, but it had been exciting. He closed his eyes and could still see her face and the little smile when she'd rested against him after they had finished. It was a pretty smile, and it had suited her. He could remember her groans and cries of pleasure. How her panting against his chest when she tried to catch her breath afterward, delighted him. He would hold close her fervent desire to just satisfy him.

And now he was alone.

Then he heard the splashing in the tub. He rose from the bed in a rush, not quite believing it. She hadn't left him? He almost felt giddy when he realized she was still in the guest house. It was a ridiculous feeling, of course. After all where would she go?

Well, she'd go back to her Pack, dummy, he thought, where she belongs. No, that wasn't right. As a Lycan bitch, if I want to have her with me, no one from her Pack has any say in the matter. I am a Pack Master, after all. She is smart and nice. She is pretty and she ... Stars and Moon, she wanted me! Shit, it's all just too good to be true. Can I just run over her and take over like that? What if she has other plans? Do I really want Ransom with me because I forced her to be? Have I really stooped that low or become that desperate?

He hated this part. She was going to climb out of the tub, walk in, say what a fun time they had, and leave ... and he was going to let her. He had to think of a reason for her to stay with him. Maybe she would be willing to lend a hand in Detroit unraveling the mystery behind the death of Kiera's brother. She seemed concerned enough about the Mistress, he hoped the concern was genuine enough for her to agree to go with him.

Horus padded over to the bathroom and looked in on her. Her eyes were closed and he could see the steam rising from the hot water. She looked so serene and at peace on the surface, but he could also see something was bothering her. How do I give the Pack Master the brush off? was probably it. Well, if it was him, he needed to find out now.

"Ransom,” he started, then smiled when she opened her eyes. She made no attempt to cover herself, and for some reason that pleased him, more than her nudity alone did. Did she already trust him that much? “I have some things I need to take care of for a few days ... before I go back to my Pack.” Well if she didn't hide her nudity, he wouldn't hide his. He walked into the washroom and leaned against the sink.

"I ... I wondered if, unless you have someone waiting for you ... at your home Pack ... I would really like the company of ... your company.... “Horus heaved a sigh, then squared his shoulders as he stood over her in the tub. “Call your Pack up, and tell them not to worry about you. I'll take care of you and get you home. I want you with me.” He suddenly realized how gruff he sounded, so Horus tried to back off a bit. After all, ordering bitches around was something other Masters did, not him. “Maybe make ... a small vacation of it and get to know each other?"

By the Moon, he hoped she would agree.

Ransom had to control her reaction. She couldn't seem too eager even though he was handing her everything she needed on a silver platter. It was perfect. Beyond perfect. She couldn't help the sparkle that leapt to her eyes. “The only sire waiting on me at home is my father.” She told him with a small smile. At least that was the truth.

She tilted her head as she considered him then picked up the washcloth. “Would you wash my back while you tell me where we're going on this little vacation? I should make sure I have the right clothes if we're going somewhere the temperature is drastically different.” It was a simple acceptance of planning. There was no question she would go with him. He was a Pack Master and she was an unBonded bitch. She found it odd he had given her a chance to back out, but she felt honored that he had. He was much more considerate of her feelings than most Alpha males she had known. Hell, he was more considerate than any male she'd known, and that little stammer of his was actually kind of sweet. He was nervous around her!

Horus knelt next to the tub and took the washcloth. “We're going to Detroit ... by train. Amris has an idea we can find some answers there regarding who was behind the death of Kiera's brother."

"Oh!” Ransom was genuinely delighted. She had never had the opportunity to travel by train before. It looked so romantic in the movies. “I've never been on a train before! I've heard they can be ro...” She snapped her mouth closed before finishing the sentence, then added a weak, “I've heard they're nice. What's in Detroit?” She tried to cover her embarrassment by changing the subject.

Horus had to laugh at her excitement, even if the reason for the trip was deadly serious. “Well, in a nutshell, after Kiera killed the human that killed her brother, she and Amris managed to get a name and an address for him in the Motor City. Amris gave them to me last night so I could look into it for him since Detroit's on the edge of my territory. He thought I might have an easier time digging around there."

He slid the washcloth over her back and then rubbed at her shoulders, grinning when she sighed and tilted her head back. Just like Janise used to ... Shit! Get that thought out of your head, buddy! This isn't Janise, it's Ransom. She's nothing like Janise was. Ransom is ... a lady. A smoking hot, sexy lady, no doubt, but still a lady. Not a lying, deceitful...?

Horus shifted his thinking and forced himself back to the task at hand. If he allowed himself to think of Janise that would only mess up what he was trying to build with Ransom, and he didn't want to hurt that at all. What would that be anyway, considering they'd only just met? Horus couldn't answer that question yet, but his gut and his instincts told him that Ransom was worth staying close to.

"Because we don't know who's responsible, we're taking every kind of precaution. That's why I bought myself a train ticket last night. Airports are too easy to check. I'll have to arrange for a ticket for you today too.” He slid the washcloth across her back one last time before rubbing it over her belly just below her breasts. He gave her a quick peck on the cheek before standing up. If he stayed in here much longer with her, they were going to be a lot later getting underway, and he knew Amris was in a hurry.

"Once you're dried and dressed, we'll go see if Amris is ready to go.” He bent over and gave her another kiss. “We'll do any shopping that needs to get done in Detroit, okay?"

"Detroit, I'm ready for.” Ransom rose from the tub, letting the water slip from her skin as she reached for a towel. “If you had said we were going to the Bahamas or Tahiti that would be a different story.” She laughed wrapping the towel around herself as she stepped from the tub. Though she was disappointed he hadn't lingered she didn't let it show.

"Shouldn't you get dressed yourself? Or are you going like that?” She chuckled at his nudity. Moon Goddess bless her he was beautiful. Not with a feminine type of beauty but the kind of natural beauty that was associated with a lightning storm. Strong, raw, and powerful. Maybe, she decided, once she got to know him better, she would tell him that. Finding a nice, masculine, ego stroking way to do it so the Pack Master wasn't offended.

He laughed easily at her jab. “Point taken, Ransom, point taken.” He waited a moment though, just to stand and stare at her near naked body with undisguised appreciation. Keeping his smile comforting, he was careful not to leer at her. He simply admired the view, chuffing slightly when she leaned over the sink to wipe fog from the mirror. “You're a ... wow ... Damn you're a beautiful woman, Ransom.” He groaned, and stepped toward her. Amris could wait.

Ransom laughed when he stepped next to her and placed her palm on his chest. “We don't have time, Horus.” She breathed deep. “You need to go get dressed."

Horus groaned aloud again, but stepped back nodding his head. “Yeah, I do.” Then he winked and pointed a finger at her. “And you need to make a phone call.” He turned away then and went back to his own room to quickly dress and pack to leave.

Once he was gone, Ransom looked at herself in the mirror. Horus had called her beautiful, but she didn't recognize the woman in the reflection at all. This disguise had been intended for one night, and now that it had passed, she should be able to go back to being herself. The person in the mirror wasn't who she wanted to be or who she was. The blonde hair belonged to someone else. The blue eyes; they belonged to someone else. Still, she had a role to play and a job to do, so Ransom stared at the stranger in the mirror a moment longer, forcing back her tears. Reasserting herself now would be a mistake and she would lose everything. As much as she wanted to dispense with the pretense and just be herself, it wasn't possible. Ransom did not think she was interesting enough to keep a Master's attention, and she knew she wasn't at all comfortable playing the whore. She just wasn't the woman Hector wanted her to be. Then she allowed herself a tight smile. Maybe, if she was Janise ... then Janise could be the whore. She dressed quickly and pocketed her cell phone. “Do we have time for coffee?” She called out from the bathroom as she slipped into her shoes.

"Just putting a pot on now.” He called back from the kitchen. “I've already called Amris and he wants to meet in fifteen minutes. I hope you don't mind having breakfast on the road."

"That's fine. I'm not much of a breakfast person.” Ransom dropped her bag in the small living room and moved into the kitchen. “Smells heavenly.” She said taking the two steps across the kitchen to stand behind Horus. Wrapping her arms around him, she laid her head on his back. “Good morning."

She held him tightly, just breathing in his scent for a long moment. It was a strangely intimate moment that suddenly made her uncomfortable. Guilt was starting to edge its way into her psyche and she couldn't afford to feel guilty. She would have to keep Horus at arm's length or she would get too close to be successful in her mission. Would Janise have hugged him like that? By the Moon and Stars, this was going to be hard!

She pulled away as he began to turn around, busying herself getting them mugs and finding the sugar. “So Master Amris is going with us? I would have thought he would stay with his bride. I know I would be pretty pissed off if my groom tried to run off the day after our Bonding."

Horus laughed at that. “Well, I'm sure Kiera understands he means well. Besides, she's been attacked. If it were my mate, I would react the same way. Protect. Protect. Protect."

He poured her a cup of coffee and pushed the sugar and cream along the counter to her. “It's what you do for your Pack, and for your kin. You do whatever it takes to make them safe."

Ransom's head snapped up at his words and wondered if he knew. He couldn't know, but what he had just said was what she believed as well. You do whatever you can to protect your kin. You do ... whatever it takes.

He added some sugar to his own coffee then went over to their bags by the front door and scooped them up under his arm.

"He'll be waiting at his place.” He smiled unable to keep the idea of spending some personal time with Ransom from showing on his face. “You ready for some excitement?"

Ransom shook her head in disbelief as she followed him. “If I ever Bond, my man better never think of leaving me the day after. If he goes anywhere, he's taking me with him on a honeymoon.” She opened the door for him and bit her lower lip thoughtfully. “Preferably somewhere warm and tropical."

"Did you make a last run through to make sure we didn't forget anything?” Only after getting Horus’ assurance he had, did she step out behind him. The day was clear and sunny, beautiful for traveling. Regardless of her hidden agenda, she felt the thrill of excitement at embarking on what was promising to be an adventure. Although, just spending time alone with Horus would be an adventure if last night were a gauge.

"I hope you and Master Amris weren't planning on sharing a stateroom on the train.” She said lowly, spotting the other Master leaning against the tail end of a large black SUV. He seemed impatient, checking his watch often.

Horus chuckled. “No, Ransom. It's just going to be us on the train. Amris will be heading in a different direction; a little closer to home and the protection of his Pack."

When they got to the SUV, Amris gave Ransom a look that would have frozen her in place if he had such powers. His greeting was abrupt and hurried and even Horus was taken aback by how cold he seemed. “What's she doing here?"

Horus crossed his arms and glared at his friend, hoping that there would be some explanation for his sudden rude behavior. The Weret Master had struggled personally in finding the right words to invite Ransom along, and to have that decision challenged now rankled. “She's with me."

If Amris could be rude and inconsiderate, Horus would match him rudeness for rudeness. He did notice, though, that Kiera wasn't even here to see him off, and that made Horus wonder if she had balked at Amris leaving her alone. Maybe Ransom had been correct about that whole honeymoon idea. Even so, it was no justification for Amris’ attitude now.

Amris met his friend's eyes then looked over to Ransom. If anything, the girl almost shrunk even further under his gaze. Then she did a curious thing. Instead of slipping behind Horus and using him for protection, she simply kept hold of Horus’ hand and returned Amris’ gaze herself. There was no hiding the fear in her eyes at what the Pack Master may say or do, but Amris was pleased to see her show some grit.

"Okay, fine. She's with you.” Then he checked his watch again. “Let's get moving."

Horus knew better than to ask any questions right now and simply dumped his and Ransom's bags in the back with Amris'. He was surprised to see a larger bag in the back, and wondered exactly how long Amris expected to be away.

Once they were settled into the SUV, Amris rolled out to the main gate of the community. Khefris himself was standing at the gate with two other Pack hunters. After the attack against their Mistress, the community was under siege and had been put on full alert. Amris was confident in his Pack's abilities, but he still hated having to leave them during this difficult time. They were already at war against an unseen enemy. This mission was as much about finding out who hired Adric's killer, as it was finding out where to send his Hunters. The Grey Master was uncomfortable being on the defensive and simply reacting. His mate had been threatened and he was ready to hunt. Amris spoke briefly with his second. “Remember Khef, unless Kiera approves them, no one gets in the house. No one."

Khefris nodded in understanding. “Of course, my Lord."

Amris then slipped Khefris a sealed envelope and shook his hand. “Don't open it until you think you have to. You'll know when that is."

Horus nodded his head at that last comment. He should have done the same with Ra. Though he trusted his second to know what to do to take care of his Pack without his direction. If something went horribly wrong in Detroit, he knew Ra would fill in the void and keep the Weret Pack intact. From what he had seen, Khefris was just as capable as Ra ... so what other information was Amris passing to his second? Horus sat back in the seat and looked out the window. Whatever it was, it was Grey Pack business and didn't concern him. After all, he hadn't been attacked, and he was already doing what he could for his ally by going to Detroit.

Then they were rolling.

Ransom tried to make herself small in the back seat. She was thankful Master Amris’ brusque greeting had not dissuaded Master Horus from his desire for her to accompany him or she would have been completely unable to follow Hector's latest orders. Once they left the gate, the silence in the cab was overwhelming. Not a word passed between the two Masters in the front of the vehicle and Ransom saw no reason to alleviate the tension. Whatever was going on, they knew more about it than she did. Anything she said now would only sound asinine and she was in no hurry to draw Master Amris’ attention to her again.

She was unfamiliar with the territory, but it seemed to Ransom that they were traveling deeper into the woods on the outskirts of the Grey Pack compound. Confused, she began paying closer attention until she was certain she was correct. She was just about to ask about it when the SUV slowed to nearly a stop.

A lithe figure darted out of the trees, barreling straight for the SUV. Ransom just barely made out the black and blue blur before the back door was jerked open and someone dove into the vehicle. The door slammed and they were moving again before Ransom really registered what had happened.

Kiera realized the back seat was occupied at the last second, shifting her weight slightly so as not to wind up in the other woman's lap. This was certainly a change in plans, and one she wasn't very happy with. “Who the hell are you?” She demanded after a second, her own blue eyes blazing.

Ransom could only laugh. It seemed the Mistress was getting her honeymoon after all.

Horus turned to the back seat, and glanced at Kiera, then back at Amris before slowly shaking his head. “Are you sure you know what you're doing?"

"No.” Amris shook his head. “I'm not. But do you want to argue with her?"

Horus turned his head back toward Kiera and saw her blue eyes daring him to say something. With Ransom still chuckling in the back seat, he decided against it. Maybe better to say something later ... Or never. By the look on her face, he could tell Ransom wasn't going to let him live this down. Oddly enough, it gave him a warm feeling to look in the future and see someone there to tease him. “So?” Kiera asked pointing up at Ransom. “Who's she?"

Horus sighed. “She's my company to Detroit. Ransom, this is Mistress Kiera. Master Amris is behind the wheel. Kiera, Amris ... Ransom Ferrell ... my ... partner."

"Ferrell? From Quentin's Pack?” Amris turned his head and looked at Horus sitting beside him. When Horus had arrived at the Ceremony, he had been conspicuously alone. Since Janise left him, the Weret Master hadn't kept company with a woman longer than one night, and even those had been few and far between. Now he seemed fixated on a bitch he had just met the day before. Amris worried for his friend's peace of mind, but more importantly, his heart. He didn't think Horus could survive another disaster like Janise. He turned to look over his shoulder to Ransom who was nodding at him from the back seat.

He turned his head to Horus and saw his friend watching him. It seemed that Horus knew exactly what he was thinking. Horus was a friend and ally. At one time, Horus had been as much a stranger as Ransom was now, but he and Amris had worked past that initial suspicion and become fast friends ... and Horus trusted her.

"Okay Horus. She stays.” He turned back in his seat and eased the SUV onto the road with a smirk. “Anyone else you want to spring on us. Goblins? Ghosts? A couple of felines?” Horus was right. It had to come down to whether Amris could trust his friend's decisions or not. He knew he could trust Horus with his life, which was why he was with them now in the first place.

That didn't mean he had to trust Ransom fully with Kiera's life, though. Not yet anyway. As he drove on in silence, Amris thought about what her presence meant. It was already a huge change to the original plan, but it didn't have to be a problem. Ransom had said Cheri had introduced her to Horus. Fine. When they stopped for breakfast, he would make a call back to the compound and talk to Cheri. If he felt comfortable after that call, then everything would be okay. If not, then the sooner Horus and Ransom were on their way to Detroit, the better.

Kiera felt the indecision in Amris. He was about to come out of his skin with nervousness, anxiety sending little pin pricks along her skin through the Bond. She reached up between the seat and door to rest her hand along his hip in a comforting, soothing gesture. As with any newlyweds, they touched often, and she felt her touch give Amris a measure of comfort. Smiling, she waited for the little prickling sensation to ease.

"No Clans.” Ransom quipped under her breath. “They're all pussies anyway.” The sound carried in the complete silence of the cab. One by one, Amris, Kiera and Horus all looked at her. Then, almost as once, they burst out laughing, dispelling at least for the moment, the tension in the vehicle.

Ransom turned in the seat, stretching out her legs on the cushion to give Kiera more room on the floor. Staring out the window, she became resigned with her new role. Outsider. Not trusted or wanted. She understood the concern but that didn't mean she had to like it. Though it was true she was there for less than honorable intentions, she wasn't happy about it either. None of this was part of the game plan when she manipulated Cheri into introducing her to Horus the day before. All she was supposed to have done was distract Horus. Fine. She had done that. But five hundred dollars? To make matters worse, Horus had called her his partner in defending her presence to the others. She bit her knuckle as she stared sightlessly at the passing scenery, guilt eating at her with sharp, jagged teeth. Maybe whatever was going on, and whatever was happening in Detroit could be over with quickly. Then she could get back to her father and find some other way to repay his debt.

"Only Khefris knows she's with us.” Amris started explaining. “He's been directed to maintain the illusion that Kiera's been locked up in the main house. If anyone else tries anything against her it will be directed that way, and she'll still be safe. The only other people who know she's not there are sitting in this car."

"And no one is going to breathe a word about it. Are you?” Kiera was looking directly up at Ransom from her place in the floorboard. She trusted Amris and Horus with her secret, but this new unknown factor made her nervous.

Ransom simply raised a brow. “I'm just along for a vacation to Detroit. I must have slept on the trip to the train station, I couldn't tell you where we were or who we were with.” The very last thing she wanted was for Master Amris and Mistress Kiera to become suspicious of her. She hadn't bargained for having to dupe three Lycan nobles. If she protested too much right now, it would only make them more suspicious. She had to keep her cool.

Kiera nodded, seemingly satisfied with Ransom's answer as she adjusted into a more comfortable position. Ransom drew her legs up to her chest, making space on the seat next to her. “There's plenty of room up here and I promise I've had all my shots."

"Not until we're actually on the expressway. If you left Grey Rock with three people, anyone watching will become suspicious when you suddenly acquire a fourth. We'll be making several stops before New Albany.” Kiera explained then added slightly louder. “And the first stop is going to be breakfast ... right dear?"

Amris and Horus both laughed at the same time. “Yes, dear.” Amris smiled at the thought of them moving into unknown dangers, alone and isolated. It amused him that Kiera's first concern was breakfast.

"So, Ransom.” Amris changed the thread of the conversation neatly on its head. “How is it you suddenly managed to become Horus’ partner?"

Horus turned his head and frowned. “Amris, if I think she's all right to accompany me that should be enough. How we met, and why I want her with me, is our business."

"Normally, my friend, I would agree with you, but it's my mate's life we're talking about here now and friendship or not, alliance or not, I need to know she's safe.” Amris shifted his gaze to study Ransom's reflection was in his rear view mirror. “So, Ransom, the original question stands. How is it you suddenly managed to become Horus’ partner?"

Horus could feel his temper building. “Don't answer that, Ransom.” He turned in his seat to face Amris, his voice rising. “I can appreciate where you're coming from, Amris, I really can. But this is the third time you've questioned her being here. If you've already started questioning my choices and decisions, you can drop me off right now."

"Horus...” Kiera's voice came from the back but Horus ignored her.

"Ransom is here because I like her company. Ransom is here because I think she likes my company. I want to spend more time with her if I can, and ... And by the Stars, Amris; neither of us expected Kiera to be here! So if you want to change the plan, and do your own thing, that's fine. But don't start questioning me, or my companion, because neither of us has to answer to you!"

Ransom felt the situation deteriorating before her very eyes. She had to make a calculated but risky move. Though Horus had told her to be quiet, she couldn't sit idly by and let a friendship be destroyed over her. “I don't want to cause any trouble. Cheri introduced me to Master Horus yesterday at the Breakfast of the Dawn and I liked what I saw. I was hoping to spend more time with him and see if the inside matched the outside. If my being with him is going to be this much of a problem, you can just let me out at the bus station and I'll go home.” She flashed Horus a smile. “Look me up when you're done in Detroit."

If Horus let her go, then she would have to report she failed in her mission. She knew it would arouse suspicion if she seemed too eager or determined, after only knowing him for a short time. She had to make it clear she was genuinely interested in Horus for himself and not his title or his closeness to Master Amris and Mistress Kiera.

Kiera tried to swallow back the guilt. Was it really their place to interfere in Horus’ personal life? He was helping them on a voluntary basis. This really wasn't his problem. She understood Amris’ concern but they couldn't afford to lose Horus as an ally. She had seen Amris react strongly when he had been questioned about his own decisions regarding her and couldn't blame Horus for being insulted. “I don't think it will be necessary to drop you off anywhere,” she said to Ransom, adding, “Will it Amris?"

Amris looked back at Kiera, settling on the determined expression on her face. She knew what she was asking him to do, but she had asked. She hadn't pushed or argued as she had last night. She had asked, and he loved her for leaving the decision to him.

Amris turned his gaze back to the road. Giving a sharp nod he answered in a tight voice, “No, it won't."

They made it to town without incident or conversation, each of them keeping their own counsel. Ransom was glad they were finally stopping. The tension between Amris and Horus had become stifling and she needed a break. She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket, certain it was Tam wanting a status update. He could wait. She was in no hurry to report her success to her father.

Amris pulled into a parking space that they were lucky to find near a small family coffee shop downtown. Horus opened his door and climbed out, then used his body to block the sight of Kiera clambering out of the vehicle from the floor mats. He helped Ransom out as well, sighing in acceptance of her cool attitude. It was to be expected he guessed. What could have been a promising, exciting time together had become tainted by Amris’ paranoia.

"You ladies grab us a table.” Horus directed Ransom. “Amris and I will be there in a few minutes."

Ransom cast her eyes over to Amris and Horus felt Kiera's eyes on his own face. “Don't worry, girls. This isn't going to be messy. We just need to clear the air."

Kiera nodded and went inside, leaving Ransom no choice but to follow. Once they were alone Horus turned on Amris. “Okay, Amris. I know why you're doing what you're doing, but I still don't appreciate it. I wouldn't do anything to hurt Kiera and you should know that. And that includes bringing Ransom along."

Amris held up his hand as a peace gesture. “I know, Horus, and I'm sorry for that bit in the car. But I still need to be sure.” He pulled out his cell phone and dialed Quentin's number, annoyed to get a busy signal. Remembering what Ransom had said about Cheri introducing her he dialed again this time to the compound at Grey Rock. Within minutes he had Cheri on the line.

"Yes, Master Amris? What can I do to help?"

"Tell me about Ransom. The she-wolf you introduced to Horus. How well do you know her?"

He could almost hear the sigh of relief from the other end of the line. “Oh, wow. I thought this was something serious.” Cheri laughed. “You don't have to worry about Horus and Ransom, Master. She's a nice lady.” Her tone got a little more serious as she spoke, but it was evident she was just stating what she knew about Ransom without any sense of anxiety.

"I know her home Pack is over in Ohio. She got wind of the Ceremony the same way all single bitches hear about these things.” She laughed again. “Our friends brag about them."

"Is she single?” Amris didn't want to admit it yet, but by the sounds of it already, he'd probably made a big mistake.

Cheri sighed. “As single as I am, and as single as Shiri was. She lives with her freaking dad, for crying out loud! Do you think I would have introduced her to Master Horus if she were attached to a sire?"

Now Amris had to laugh. “Well, Horus is helping me out with Kiera's problem and Ransom is with him. I just needed to know..."

Now Cheri's laughter was louder. “C'mon, Amris. You're joking, right? A pretty single bitch shows up at your Ceremony, watches two of the hottest, sexiest wolves on earth Bond and sees a damned fine looking single Master just hanging around? By himself? If I didn't have my own sights on someone else, I would've spent the night with him!"

"So, I guess I'm being silly then, huh?"

Now Cheri's laughter stopped. “Master Amris, you're never silly. But I wouldn't worry about Ransom and Horus.” He could almost hear the smile in her voice. “They do actually look good together."

Well, Amris thought to himself, I guess I have been silly. “Yeah, Cheri, I guess they do. Thanks for the help."

"Not a problem, my Lord.” Cheri was struggling to maintain her decorum, but couldn't help it. With a chuckle she said, “Be sure to tell Ransom I said 'You're welcome'."

Amris laughed. “I will, Cheri. Thanks.” Then he hung up.

Horus had been listening to the conversation easily enough by virtue of his superior hearing. “So? You ready to accept her now?” He stood barring the way to the restaurant, his large arms crossed over his chest. He wasn't moving until Amris acknowledged his error.

Amris nodded, a bit embarrassed now by his earlier behavior. “I'm sorry, for questioning your judgment my friend. I just needed to be sure ... for Kiera's sake.” He ran a hand through his hair and shook his head. “Her insistence on joining me has thrown me for bit. I guess I wasn't thinking straight."

Horus nodded and clapped his hand on Amris’ shoulder, this small rift in their friendship repaired. “Good thing one of us is sane, then, isn't it?"

He lowered his hand and the two Pack Masters went into the coffee shop together to join their ladies for breakfast.

Amris wasn't the only one with concerns. Kiera asked the waitress to seat them at a quiet booth toward the back of the diner so she and Ransom could talk before they were joined by the two Pack Masters. Once the waitress left them alone, Kiera folded her hands on top of the table and looked across the booth to Ransom. “Horus is a good friend. He does not have to put himself out to help us but he is. It would be a shame for him to become so distracted it takes more time away from his own Pack than is absolutely necessary."

Ransom smirked at the thinly veiled warning. “Look,” she started to say then shook her head remembering who she was talking to. “Mistress Kiera, I don't know what is going on here and I probably don't want to know. I heard there was a Bonding and came to check it out. You haven't been married for so long you forget what it is to be an unBonded bitch looking to catch a strong sire's eye."

"True.” Kiera nodded in understanding and waited for Ransom to continue.

"Sure enough, I found the hottest unBonded sire I've ever seen. Fortunately, he was interested in me as well. We spent the night together and he invited me to keep him company. End of story. I mean hell, who would have thought I would attract the attention of a Master, much less land some time alone with him.” Ransom shook her head in amazement. Then she sobered.

"Now if it was me, I would think two heads were better than one since he mentioned something about a bit of a mystery going on. But, if you tell me now you don't want me around, I'm gone. The last thing I want, or need, is to come between two Masters and a Mistress."

Kiera waited until she was sure Ransom was finished. The waitress delivered their coffee in the ensuing silence. “I'm not going to tell you what to do and I'm definitely not about to tell Horus what he should do. You have to understand. I don't know you so I don't trust you. It's nothing personal."

"I do understand,” Ransom said with all honesty. She truly did understand Kiera's position and was able to look the other woman in the eye when she said it. With a sigh, she took the sugar container, dumping a liberal amount into her coffee. “And you have to understand, I didn't know anything more than there is some mystery around your brother's death and Master Horus is going to Detroit to help figure out what is going on.” Her mind whirled and she took another calculated risk. Slapping the sugar container down on the table she met Kiera's eyes again, her voice lowering. “Look, you tell me to walk right now, I'm gone. There's a back door to this place and I can take it just as easily as anyone. You can tell Horus I couldn't handle the pressure and bolted. Whatever. Just tell me now. If I'm not welcome to help you out, then I'll leave and no one ever has to know but you and me."

Kiera was quiet for a moment, considering. She found the other woman's spunk refreshing. Ransom seemed genuine and Kiera couldn't help but see qualities in her that she saw in herself. Ransom was willing to walk away from a potentially wonderful and intimate relationship if Kiera gave the word. It was a heady and difficult responsibility. Horus obviously liked the woman, otherwise he wouldn't have invited her in the first place. Kiera had to trust Horus to keep Ransom on a short leash until they learned more about her. Even by Horus and Ransom's own admission, they had only met the day before, but then it hadn't taken long for Amris to decide he wanted Kiera either. By the Heavens and Stars, she had no idea what to do!

If Horus bought her story, how would he react to hearing he had been dumped on again? Amris had confided in her earlier about what had happened with Janise, and Horus’ loneliness since. It wasn't in her to deliberately deprive him of any chosen partner. The deciding factor in her decision was Kiera's own inability to lie very well. Horus would never believe her and Amris would know without a doubt that she was lying. “No.” She finally said, “You don't have to leave. If you can help Horus, then more power to you. I won't stand between you and him."

The door opened then, and the two Master's walked in smiling. They evidently had worked their issues out and that helped Kiera relax somewhat. She gave Amris a smile as they approached and scooted deeper into the booth to make room for him to sit next to her.

Ransom noted the change in Kiera and guessed the reason easily enough. She started to shrink back, not wanting Master Amris’ hostile glare on her again but changed her mind at the last second and squared her shoulders. If she was going to be accepted to help them by Mistress Kiera, then Master Amris would have to get used to her. She wouldn't hide from him but she would stay on her guard. She moved over to make room for Horus when it dawned on her that she was surrounded by some pretty high-powered Lycan nobility. It was enough to make any bitch wary.

After Horus and Amris slid into their seats, they quickly ordered breakfast. The waitress sensed they wanted some privacy and made sure she was only available to bring them their food and coffee before retiring to her seat at the opposite end of the shop. Once they had the relative seclusion of the booth to themselves, Kiera and Amris spent the better part of a half hour bringing Horus and Ransom up to date on everything that had happened since Adric's death.

"I have a gut feeling Adric's death, the Hunt Mark, and the attempt on Kiera's life, are all related. What I can't understand is why. Fenris is a minor Leader. His Pack is small and he rules them with iron teeth. But it makes no real sense that after having a Pack member murdered by an outsider, he would deny a Hunt of Vengeance."

Amris held Kiera's hand and gently squeezed it. “I had honestly hoped that Fenris would rescind the Hunt Mark once Kiera was my Bonded Mate. She is no longer a member of his Pack, and no longer under his authority. But he hasn't done that. Nor has the bounty on her head been removed. Kiera is a threat to him somehow, and we need to find out why."

"The Gathering is coming up in a few weeks. I'd like to have enough evidence to bring forward to Lord Talon and the Duchy Council to have the Mark rescinded. That's what we're looking for. The reason for Adric's death, and the motive for the Hunt Mark. If we can find out what that is, then we'll have something real to bring to the Gathering, instead of just a hunch."

As she listened to the tale, Ransom had begun to feel more and more like a fish out of water. This was certainly not what she had signed on for when she'd taken Hector's orders. She had been assigned the task of distracting Horus. Getting close to him, and keeping her father apprised of what the Master was doing. She hadn't been told anything about murders, or Hunt Marks, or conspiracies or plots or anything like what Master Amris was talking about. What had her father gotten her involved in?

She should leave. She should just get up and say ‘Sorry, but this is a lot more than I expected. This is way out of my league. This is crazy!’ She honestly felt she was a heartbeat away from doing that very thing, when Horus touched her thigh under the table.

He squeezed her leg, gently. Not in a sexual manner, but in a reassuring ‘Don't worry, I'm here’ kind of way. She looked over and saw him looking at her, his eyes so deep and brown, and she suddenly felt comforted to have him there. Then he gave her the smallest of nods and removed his hand. Horus wanted her beside him and he just wanted to let her know it privately. Simply his touch and that brief nod pushed any doubts she had away.

"Our job, Ransom,” Horus explained, “is to find out who this Jarvis fellow was, how he knew about Lycans, and who hired him. If we can find that out before the Gathering, we'll have a lot more ammunition to present to the Council.” He moved his hand from her thigh back up to the top of the table and took her hand. Her hand seemed so small and fragile in his, but he held it gently and gave her a reassuring smile.

Kiera had also noted the other woman's growing hesitation to throw her hat in the ring for this adventure. She honestly didn't blame her. If Kiera could walk away, she might consider it had it not been for Amris. She really didn't want to be in the center of a mystery, much less one that could cost her life. There was a time, not long ago, that she was prepared to accept her own death as punishment for killing Leo. She'd had nothing left to live for. Amris had changed all that and now she wanted to live more than anything.

"I know this is a lot to take in, but we could really use your help.” Kiera said genuinely to Ransom.

"Ok, so what do we know about Leo Jarvis?” Ransom asked digging into her purse for a notebook. At Horus’ touch, she had come to a decision. Her orders had been to stay close to him. She hadn't been told not to help him. The best way to convince Horus he wanted her around as far as Ransom was concerned was to make herself useful. This way she could help out her father, as well as Horus and his friends. It was something she could do, without feeling like a whore. Once she had made the decision to help as much as she could, Ransom was ready to throw herself into the problem.

Amris tossed the wallet across the table, curious what Ransom would make of it, maybe he and the other Masters had missed something. Ransom snatched up the wallet and immediately began making notes. “Oooo ... His driver's license number is perfect. I have internet access on my cell phone that's pretty extensive. Hmmm ... maybe I can get a wireless connection on the train? Then we can get some information before getting to Detroit. If he has a record, which I'm pretty sure he does, I can dig it up. It will show us who his partners in crime are. Anyone he was arrested with or incriminated in his own testimony if any of the cases made it that far. Court records are open to the public after all.” She had done many a background check on potential employees for the construction company she worked for. This was right up her alley.

Head down while she made her notes, Ransom totally missed the surprised and impressed looks that passed between Horus and Amris. Kiera simply grinned, leaning back in her seat and taking a deep drink of her coffee.

The waitress collected their money and topped off the empty cups before leaving them with a cheery, “Have a nice day"

They left the coffee shop shortly after, then they were back in the SUV and rolling south once more. This time though, Horus gave up his seat in the front to sit with Ransom in the back.

Twenty minutes later Ransom was asking some pointed questions regarding what little they knew about Mr. Jarvis when a song came on the radio that made her sit up. She was thrilled and a little surprised when Kiera turned the volume up and started singing along. Before Kiera had gotten half way through the first verse, Ransom joined her. Impressed by the sudden strength of Ransom's singing, Kiera quieted so that only Ransom's voice filled the car with the soft lyrics of the song. It was a popular duet about a couple that had lost their own loves only to be searching for the perfect partner.

Ransom's voice was clear and strong, and Horus turned in his own seat, startled at the strength and power of Ransom's voice. Her pitch was perfect and Amris touched the volume just enough to allow Ransom to hear the background music. Horus’ eyes met Ransom's and he couldn't help but smile at the emotion she put into the song, as she picked up the essence of the lyrics.

When she completed the first verse, Horus picked up the male half of the duet, giving her the firm counterpoint she needed. His own voice was strong and deep, a rich baritone with enough emotion in it to tell everyone listening that he, too, knew this particular song well.

Now it was Ransom's turn to sit back and listen to her partner sing, surprised not only at his voice, but the fact that he knew the song. Her eyes sparkled as she took in Horus’ smile.

They sang the chorus together, somehow managing to move even closer to each other in the confines of the car, until their bodies and fingers were touching. They became oblivious to their surroundings, caring more about the fact that they had found a partner willing to endure their singing.

Their eyes were locked on each other as they continued the song to its emotional conclusion. It was a song of lost hope and redemption through new love, and it was a dream they both shared in their own way. Until this moment, neither had shared that dream with another person, and it made the sharing of the song, at this time, special for each of them.

When the song concluded Ransom and Horus were sitting as close as they could, their eyes on each other, seeing something there that neither one expected, or actually believed could be present.

"By the Moon ... that song.” Horus said shortly, his voice low and hoarse. He had shown something of himself in singing that he had never shown another soul, and he feared that at any moment she might laugh or do something to destroy the moment. “You sang it beautifully."

"Thank you.” Ransom didn't know what to say and her voice seemed like a whisper after the strength of her singing. “And you, you sang your part so well. I had no idea you had such a good voice."

Ransom saw the look in his eyes, and even worse, the mirrored expression in her own that she saw reflected in his deep, brown orbs, and it terrified her. She didn't know what else to say, or do, and when Horus leaned down to kiss her on the mouth, all she could do was surrender to the moment

Amris had already turned down the music. He looked in the rear view mirror and grinned at the sight of his friend taking his bitch and kissing her like a Master should. The sight of Ransom holding onto his friend as tightly as she could while she kissed him back only deepened his smile. He was about to say something encouraging when Kiera squeezed his hand, drawing his attention to her. She gave him a look that told him to keep his mouth shut and drive, but she couldn't help smiling either.

Traveling by train has lost its popularity for most travelers, but to Ransom it was an adventure. After Amris and Kiera dropped her and Horus off at the train station, her ticket was quickly purchased, as she would be sharing a stateroom with Horus and wouldn't require separate accommodations.

Boarding the train was something akin to stepping into the past. The very atmosphere was completely different from the world they left behind. The stateroom was compact and efficiently laid out, though Ransom thought they would have to get really cozy from time to time. Not that it bothered her to have Horus close; she was just use to her own space. The bathroom was little more than a closet.

"How long is the trip?” She asked him, with a lilt of her head and a smile.

"Oh we should be getting into Detroit around three in the morning.” Horus assured her.

Ransom heaved a small sigh of relief as she moved farther into the room so he could enter. It really was a good thing they wouldn't be here long. The cabin was so small she feared she would get claustrophobic after a while. “Well, this is going to be ... cozy."

She moved to a small table under the window and slipped into the seat. Tucking her feet under her, Ransom pulled out the pad and the list she had been working on earlier in the car from her purse. “In the meantime, I can try to see what I can learn about our friend Leo.” She said flipping open her cell phone to see if she had a signal. The Amtrak conductor had assured them they would have a wireless connection from their stateroom, and apparently, he was as good as his word. It hardly took but a moment to make the connection, and soon enough Ransom had her head bent over the small phone carefully typing and searching the web.

Horus watched Ransom for a minute as she fiddled with the controls on the phone, finally smiling as she apparently hooked up with something out there. He didn't want to bother her so he slipped out of the stateroom quietly. “I'm just going to get us something to drink and maybe a snack before dinner. You keep at it and take notes.” He smiled at her distracted nod. “Back in a minute."

He hadn't been out of the stateroom two minutes when Ransom made a connection to Leo Jarvis. His name had come up as a private investigator in Detroit, with a thing called Jarvis Brothers Investigations. She made a note to check on the brother later. Not much more was mentioned about him other than the address of their shared office on Six Mile road in downtown Detroit. Ransom then she ran a white pages check on the Jarvis name and came up with a few of them. She jotted down the various addresses in her notebook

Just on a whim, Ransom downloaded some maps of the city into a file on her phone as well. There was no telling when, or if, those would come in handy.

She had just finished downloading the maps when she took the opportunity to read and respond to the text from her father.

[Where are you now?]

[On a train with Horus. It's kind of exciting.]

[A train? Where to?]

[Detroit. We're not even going to the Weret Compound yet. ]

She wondered if it was important that she wasn't going to be spending time with Horus at the Weret core home.

[Do you want me to stay with him?]

[Yes. But be careful. And don't trust him.]

Don't trust him? Why ever not? Ransom wondered idly. So far, Horus had been a perfect gentle sire. He had been considerate of her feelings and even defended her from Master Amris’ anger, after only knowing her one night. What was there not to trust? She was about to ask her father why she should be cautious when Horus came back to the stateroom. He banged on the door to get her help since his hands were full.

[Gotta go. Love you.]

Ransom signed off and turned off her phone, then rose to help Horus at the door. The big man had half a dozen cans of soda under his arms, as well as four different kinds of sandwiches stuffed in his pockets. He hadn't thought to ask what she might like so he had picked up a ham, a chicken salad, a roasted turkey, and a plain egg salad sandwich. Even the soda was an eclectic mix of cola, diet cola, root beer and fruit punch.

"Sorry, I forgot to ask what you might want. I guess I got a little carried away."

Ransom smiled at him. “That's fine.” She reached for the root beer and popped it open, then settled down to look out the window at the coming night. She had gotten enough information on Jarvis for now. Having no intention of spending the entire trip working, she could only hope that Horus felt the same and they could spend some time together.

"I was going to pick up a magazine,” Horus was saying, “but I thought ... well ... maybe ... you might ... you might..."

It was happening again, he thought with dread. Why is it, every time I'm with a beautiful young woman all by myself, I can't even think straight? By the Moon, I am such a coward! Why did I even start this? I should have left her behind. I should be doing this on my own. I don't need her here. Ransom was smiling up at him, her hair loose in front of her face. She looked ... perfect. Who am I fooling? Of course I need her here.

"Want to talk?” Ransom finished for him, as she slid a stray strand of hair behind her ear.

"Yeah.” Horus smiled. Then he stopped smiling. “So ... do you?"

Ransom laughed, but it wasn't a hurtful or spiteful sound. She was laughing with him not at him, and Horus was refreshed at the sound. “Yeah.” She nodded her head. This was what her father, and the people paying off her father's debts wanted. Information about Horus, and this time she wouldn't have to sell her body to get it. “Let's talk."

Horus slid uncomfortably into the seat across from Ransom, his large bulk barely fitting into the tight space, once he was settled, he smiled at her.

Almost immediately, she smiled back at him.

His eyes left hers to look down at the table. Then out the window. After a moment, he found himself studying his fingers. Slowly his eyes slid around the small stateroom that was suddenly feeling like a prison. Eventually he was looking out the window again.

"So.” Ransom said finally, “It's a pretty sight, eh?"

"Yes, it is.” Horus smiled at her, silently thanking her for getting it started. “Looks like a bit of a storm brewing to the northwest but we should be okay."

Ransom nodded and laughed. “Yeah, no storms on the horizon in here."

The conversation was about to die, and with it, Horus knew, any chance he had of getting to know this beautiful woman better. Sure, maybe she was still only after him for the reputation of bedding a Pack Master. Though Horus doubted that more and more, he was still at a total loss as to what to say next. “So. How about those Colts, huh? Really kicked some serious butt on the field last year.” Sports? I'm going to win her over talking about sports?

Ransom's eyes lit up. “Did they ever! Peyton never looked so good as he did last year and this year he should be even better! And that game against New England? What a show!"

Horus’ mouth hung open. “You watch football?"

Ransom shrugged. “My dad wanted a son."

"I'm glad he got it wrong.” Horus smiled then realized what he had said. “I mean..."

She smiled and when another small lock of hair fell across her face, she gently pushed it back behind her ear again. Horus watched transfixed, and it seemed as if the movement had exposed an element of her beauty he had never appreciated before. He felt a small stirring in his chest, suddenly needing to take a deep breath.

"So, what other teams do you think have a chance?” Talk football, he told himself. Talk male stuff. Think male stuff. Try to ignore, at least until dinner, how pretty she is and how badly you just want to ignore all this stuff and bed her again.

When Ransom answered his question, she met his eyes with her own, and her answer was insightful and precise and logical and she broke down her reasoning in effective and intelligent steps.

Horus thought she had the prettiest eyes. They were an odd green-blue that he had never quite seen before. Made all the more dazzling when she smiled at him and he loved the way it made his heart skip a beat.

They spent the rest of the evening talking about football, sports, movies and favorite books. Horus was delighted when he admitted to enjoying The King and I. Ransom laughed and clapped when he quoted “Etcetera ... etcetera ... etcetera...” in Yul Brynner's voice.

"So you don't think it's silly, that a Pack Master likes human musicals?” Horus was actually holding his breath at her answer.

"No.” Ransom smiled and her eyes were shiny and bright. “I think it's adorable."

Adorable. She thought he was adorable. Or, at least, she thought his taste in movies was adorable. That was close enough, wasn't it?

"And,” she added with a devilish grin, “I think you would make a fine king."

Horus looked back down at the table and blushed. She liked him. He could tell this wasn't a game with her. That she wasn't with him just to be able to brag. She wanted to be there, and the more time they spent together the more he was glad to have her with him. Her genuine smile and bright sparkling laugh only made him feel good deep inside. Then he looked at his watch and groaned. “If we don't get to the dining car, we're going to miss dinner."

At the mention of leaving the cabin, a shadow fell across Ransom's face. She didn't want to be out in the public. All at once, for some reason she didn't even understand yet, she didn't want to share Horus with anyone else, not even strangers on a train.

"Can't we have dinner here? Just us?"

Horus looked up and back into her eyes, and nodded. “Sure. I'll go get us something.” He slid from the table leaned down to give Ransom a quick kiss Then he stood up and backed to the door to the stateroom stating, “I'll be back in a few minutes."

After he got into the short hallway, he took a moment to stop and think. He knew what he wanted to do. What he should do. What he might do if he had the nerve. He looked through the glass door at her profile and sighed. She looked so much like Janise. Was that what he was thinking? Nevertheless, she knew the song, and her voice when she sang it ... it was beautiful. Ransom wasn't afraid to laugh, and Janise could be a bit uptight sometimes.

More importantly, Ransom liked The King and I. Not only did she like it, but she accepted his appreciation of the musical. She had not laughed at him or put him down, like Janice had, ridiculing his taste as juvenile. Though Ransom looked very much like Janise, she was uniquely different and he was enjoying learning every difference in vivid detail.

Then he shook his head. He was a Pack Master, damn it. Since Ransom had come into his life, he seemed to have forgotten that; especially when she was nearby. It was time to remind himself what that meant.

Ransom wasn't Janise. She was nothing like that deceptive little bitch. She was honest and fun and innocent. And she liked The King and I.

Horus steeled himself and made up his mind. He prayed his decision wouldn't backfire on him. The emotions he experienced in her presence were only increasing in strength. If she shared those feelings, then he needed to act.

Ten minutes later, he was backing into the stateroom, a tray in his hands. On the tray was a bottle of wine, two glasses, and a small vase with a single rose in it.

Ransom heard the door, sensing Horus’ nearness before he even spoke. She had returned to her research while he was gone, taking the cowards way out. They had made such an intense connection while they were talking she knew she was falling, hard. Doing the research on Leo Jarvis had been her way of distancing herself from her real mission. She needed to focus on something totally unrelated and completely opposite from her heart. “There's no obituary listed for a Jarvis in the last two months.” She reported looking up at him. Her mind switched gears the second she saw him with the tray and its contents. The phone dropped forgotten from her hands and she moved the notebook to make room for the tray on the seat. A rose ... he brought me a rose. By the Moon and Stars, no one has ever ... Okay, Ransom ... keep your cool.

"Uhm ... err...” He was actually sweating. “Dinner will be coming soon, but I thought you might want, something, you know, to drink, maybe."

Horus’ nervousness was touching and Ransom gave him an encouraging smile. “How nice. I was getting a little parched. Thank you. Though it may be a little early for dinner, we just had breakfast not long ago."

"You've lost track of time, Ransom.” He smiled. “It's after six already.” Horus moved to set the tray down and take his own seat. “We don't have much time for our train experience, so I thought we may as well make the most it.” Uncorking the bottle, he poured the contents into the glasses. “I was actually surprised to find out they had such a good selection. I hope this meets with your approval."

Ransom had little personal experience with alcohol. Having to rescue her father from so many bars and strip clubs the last few years had given her a strong distaste for the stuff and she had no real enthusiasm to change her mind. Until now. She took a sip and her eyes lit at the fluid sliding over her tongue like silk. “Oh that's very good,” she said taking a slightly larger drink. “You're so sweet.” The moment the words were out of her mouth, she longed to take them back. She was getting too close. She couldn't afford to actually fall for the guy. He was a target she was being paid to keep company with. That was all he was. He couldn't be anything more.

She hated that he was such a nice sire. If the situation were different, if this were just the romantic date on a train he thought it was, she could fall for him all too easily. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be, and Ransom cursed where her heart was taking her. If he ever found out about her mission, he would hate her. Ransom knew herself, and she knew she couldn't have a true relationship without honesty and there was simply no way she could be completely honest with Horus. Her eyes fell to the glass in her hand as she tried to distance herself from her role.

Horus could tell at once she was shutting him out. He could see it in her posture and feel it in the uncomfortable silence that followed her statement. He had done something wrong. Maybe the wine was a bad idea. She said she didn't drink much and here he was with a bottle of wine. Maybe it was the rose. He was pushing too hard, too fast, but she had said he was sweet and he liked the sound of that.

Then she had shut him out.

He gamely tried again. “Last night, it sounded like you were looking forward to a stateroom, so I switched our tickets to a later train. I hope you like the room.” He grinned, unable to help himself. “They certainly are cozy."

She wasn't meeting his eyes and he didn't know why. He had really screwed up somehow. Was he being too pushy? After last night, he didn't think he could be. Then this morning in the bath ... he knew she wanted him. So what had he done wrong? He forced himself to review everything they'd just been talking about but he couldn't figure it out. What the hell had he done?

He put his glass down slowly on the table, and watched her as she looked out the window into the deepening night. “Ransom, what ... what just happened?"

Now he had her eyes on him. “What do you mean?” She had nice eyes.

"I mean ... what just happened? I came in and ... and you were all smiles, and I get you a rose and ... you say I'm sweet, and ... and I like the sound of that, but then ... it seems suddenly I'm not so sweet and you're looking out the window ... and not at me, and hell ... I guess I just want to know if I did something wrong."

"It's not you.” Ransom hastened to assure him. She had to think fast not realizing how obvious her withdrawal had been. “You are sweet ... and a really nice guy ... and ... a Master.” She shrugged as if that said it all. By his expression, she could tell he wasn't getting her point so she tried again. “I know you're used to bitches throwing themselves at you ... I mean, you're ... hot and strong and ... well, look at you ... you're a Master. Any bitch would want to be in your bed. I have to remember this is just fun and games.” She pulled herself up, straightening. “If you were ready to settle down and take on a mate, you would have. I'm not the kind of person a Master would consider getting serious about. It would be all too easy to let this thing between us turn into something heavy and personal."

Her mind was a whirlwind as she tried to find a suitable excuse. “I've done that before and ... it's going to hurt when you get bored with me. When you realize I'm not all that great. I don't think my ego could stand a blow like that.” The first part had been completely truthful, the second less so. At least she had something to fall back on now when her acting skills just weren't up to snuff.

Horus shook his head and frowned. “Why can't it get personal?” As much as he was trying to get some grip on the situation, the whole It's not you, it's me argument was the last thing he expected. It was just so lame. “Ransom, you think you happened to just seduce me last night? I mean, let's face it, you're right. I do have a pretty long string of bitches lining up. It's something that comes with the territory."

He sat down heavily across from her and looked out the window. After a moment he turned back to face her, reaching over to take her chin into his hand, she was so small and fragile compared to his massive size. His palm nearly covered her face. Gently he turned her so his eyes could meet hers. “But, Ransom, give me a little credit here. I do get a chance to choose who I invite into my bed. Sure, your little games last night were cute and all, I mean really ... a noise at your window?” He laughed at her sudden blush, and then she laughed a little too.

He took a sip of the wine and put it down. “I'm getting tired of the ‘fun and games', Ransom. I thought at the Ceremony when I first saw you, that you were something special. My instincts screamed at me that there was something unique about you. I even tried to ask Amris about you, to find out who you were. Then Cheri introduced you and I thought, ‘Hey, she's interested in me too.'” He chuckled. “Pretty lame, eh? Here I am; this big, strong Pack Master and I get all fluttery if an attractive bitch that I'm interested in seems to like me."

He took another drink. “I thought this morning ... when I woke up and you weren't in bed, that you had been like the others. Just up and left to celebrate that you scored a Pack Master, with all the other single bitches. But then I heard you in the bath and realized you hadn't left ... and when I asked you to join me...” Horus took a deep breath and jumped in with both feet. “Ransom, you said you wanted to come with me. To be with me. So, you'll have to excuse me if I see this as a little more than ‘fun and games'."

Shit. Now he was sounding like an idiot, time to toughen it up. “My instincts, the instincts of a Pack Master told me there was something special about you. It wouldn't be the first time they let me down, but I think they're pretty much on target with you. But, if this is all you want, we can have some fun and games tonight, and when we get to Detroit, I'll pay for your ticket home. Because I'm not into the fun and games anymore either, Ransom."

Ransom's eyes grew wide and she took a large gulp of her wine. She was in trouble. Big trouble. She wasn't cut out for this cloak and dagger shit. Whatever possessed her to think she could manipulate a Pack Master must have been couched in a moment of insanity. Damn, this would be so much easier if Horus was aloof or unlikable or even just ugly. Or if he didn't think of the sweet little touches like a rose on the tray or gentle touches of encouragement under a diner's table. She knew she was already falling for him hard and that scared her to the bone. Damn it, he even knew the song! Ransom couldn't be this close and still hold him at arm's length; it just wasn't who she was. It wasn't fair! But then none of this was fair.

Faced with the choice of going home alone, or remaining with Horus, Ransom knew which she would choose in a heartbeat. Unfortunately, there was more to consider here than just her feelings. If she stayed, was she staying out of desire or duty? If she went back, how would she explain her failure? Damn the failure, she simply didn't want to leave him. How would he react when he learned the truth about her?

Throwing caution to the wind, Ransom made a decision. She would enjoy what was offered now, and accept the consequences later, no matter how much they might hurt.

"I ... I'm sorry.” Ransom stammered reaching out to lay her hand over his. “I guess...” she sighed. “The last two days have been amazing. The ceremony was phenomenal and then getting to meet you, and last night. Now this and today. I thought ... Masters have a reputation for enjoying their ‘fun and games’ outside their pack, but when it comes to something more personal, they usually look closer to home. It just never really dawned on me that you would want that with me. I don't want to hurt you, and I don't want to get hurt. I was trying to be realistic and wound up hurting you anyway."

Horus turned his hand over so that he could hold hers in his grip. “It's okay to be afraid, Ransom.” He said gently. “But you're a Lycan, and you have to master your fear. As for hurting me, I think the only way you could do that was by not being yourself.” He pulled her around the table towards him as he turned to sit sideways in the chair, and settled her onto his lap with a quick kiss. “So am I buying you a ticket home? Or did you want to stay to help ... and be with me?"

Moon and Stars. Leave it to Horus to ask the one thing of her she couldn't give. She should pull away. She should tell him she changed her mind and to send her home. She should walk away before she got in any deeper. She should. All she had to do was climb off his lap...

Who the fuck was she kidding? His lips on hers felt so good, his arms so warm and strong around her. She wanted him. She wanted this. Even if it was just for a little while. Even if it was a facade.

"I ... I want to be with you."

He smiled wide at her answer, which touched his eyes making them shine. Then he kissed her, pulling her close and reveling in the feel of her body against his own. The taste of the wine on her tongue as he deepened the kiss was intoxicating.

Ransom threw herself into the kiss, opening for him as her tongue danced with his. This much she could give him. She could give him these small, special moments that would ease the ache of her leaving later. She may be able to fool him, but she couldn't fool herself. She knew on some small level, she would never be able to stay with him. She would have to leave, either by circumstance or when he sent her away in disgrace. Now, though, was not the time to dwell on that. She just couldn't dwell on it. She had to put herself in the here and now and milk the time she had with him for all it was worth. Turning in his arms, she snuggled closer. Her eyes were dazed and sparkling when the kiss broke. “How long do we have before we're interrupted?” She asked with a suggestive smile.

The cold, grey pallor of death suited Fenris quite well, Hector thought as he stared down at the body of his former Leader. It had been an expected turning point as far as Hector was concerned, and getting the order to dispose of the growing liability that Fenris had become was the best solution. That thinking was one of the things that Hector appreciated most about Duke Falen. The sire knew what needed to be done, and wasn't squeamish about doing it.

It was just like the development of the silver bullets all those years past. Duke Falen had known at the outset that he was going to be outnumbered and fighting an uphill struggle to become the Lycan Lord, so he had taken the incredible step to design and develop a weapon that would give him the edge. It had been amazing in scope, and fantastic in design, but it had been absolutely necessary.

"It's done.” Hector spoke into the cell phone at his head. “Fenris is dead."

"Excellent, Hector.” Duke Falen's voice was calm and assured on the other end of the line. He had ordered and seen to the execution of at least a dozen Lycan, so one more was hardly bothering him, even if the Lycan had been a Leader. “As to his replacement, do you really think Carlos is up to the task? Or would you prefer the title?"

Hector knew this was another test. As the Lunatier second, the mantle of Leader automatically went to Carlos. Hector would be his brother's second, and life would go on. “I serve you, my Lord. Whatever you decide."

Falen chuckled into the receiver. “Yes. Precisely.” He paused a moment then added, “I think I will promote you to Leader, Hector.” There was no laughter in his voice now. “You have been a solid counsel, and an effective thorn in my enemies’ side. You deserve to be recognized for your service."

"And Carlos?” Hector asked quietly. The promotion was not unexpected, but it still gave him a small thrill to know he had taken his first step up the ladder to nobility.

"Carlos is an effective second. He knows you've always had the brains. He won't fight you on this; nor will he dispute my decree."

"I agree, my Lord.” He was about to add more when Falen interrupted him.

"What about the Ferrel bitch? Any news from her yet? She's been with Horus a day and a half already. I thought we were supposed to be getting regular reports from her.” Falen wasn't particularly anxious, but he was used to being respected and his orders followed.

"I can contact her on the other phone, my Lord."

"Do it.” Falen couldn't explain the feeling he had, but something was telling him he needed to know what was going on.

Hector keyed into Ransom's cell and sent her a quick text. Annoyed she had ignored his earlier demand for a report.

[Where are you now?]

Ransom must have been alone because her reply was almost immediate.

[On a train with Horus. It's kind of exciting.]

[A train? Where to?]

[Detroit. We're not even going to the Weret Compound yet.]

Hector's fingers tightened around the cell phone as he read the words. Detroit. The Jarvis brothers came from Detroit. The first bullet plant was started up in Detroit. Everything had started in Detroit. What the fuck? He hadn't answered her right away, so Ransom had sent another text, looking for more direction.

[Do you want me to stay with him?]

Of course he wanted her to stay with him! Shit, shit, shit, shit. What the fuck was Horus doing going to Detroit?

[Yes. But be careful. And don't trust him.]

Hector couldn't be there to hold her hand and guide her, but he could at least throw a little confusion her way. Maybe if she thought her father didn't trust Horus, she would keep her guard up. To his growing anger, it seemed she just ignored the caution, as she quickly passed him a frivolous endearment before signing off.

Hector stared at the dead phone a moment before looking at the other phone in his hand, where Duke Falen was waiting to hear the report. Hector was thankful the Lycan Duke was on the other end of a phone line instead of in the same room. This news was not good.

Slowly he brought the phone back up to his ear. “My Lord, we have a problem."

Two minutes later they had a plan. Hector would collect Carlos and a small team of Lycan loyal to the Duke. They would go to Detroit and intercept Horus and find out what the Weret Master knew. Then they would use a silver bullet on him. Duke Falen was going to use his own contacts to freeze Ransom out of her accounts, and strand her. Without money or Horus’ support, she wouldn't be able to run. Her leash was going to get a lot shorter now.

After dropping Horus and Ransom off at the train station, Amris and Kiera headed further into town. Amris had only been in New Albany a couple times so he wasn't as familiar with the hunting ground as he would have preferred. Ransom had hooked into a terminal in the train station with that phone of hers and printed out a small map of the area around the Hobart Hotel for them. That simple gift had given them a chance to drive around and check out the area.

They had no idea what type of situation they were dealing with now and they both knew it. Someone had used Amris’ name to hire a killer, and whoever that was might well still be in the area. It seemed unlikely that Leo wasn't in the obituaries yet, but whoever hired him might well still be waiting to make contact. That meant they had to be careful.

In Kiera's case, the knowledge that a bounty had been set out on her for almost two weeks lent an air of urgency for them to get in, get what they could, and get out of town before she was seen and recognized.

For all they knew, New Albany was hostile territory, and they had to treat it as such. That meant getting a proper reconnaissance done. Before they even approached the Hotel they spent two hours checking cross streets and alleys, checking fire escapes and covered exits and studying the ground for a half mile all around Leo Jarvis’ last known place of residence. Amris even went so far as to identify three rendezvous points if they ever got separated to identify where they would meet up in an emergency.

When he finally felt they were ready, he rolled into the vacant parking space next to the Hotel and looked over at his mate. “This is where it all started, Kiera. You ready for this?"

"Doesn't look like I have much choice.” Kiera took a deep breath and shot Amris a tense but genuine smile. Slipping out of the seat, she waited for him to join her, linking her fingers with his, before walking in the door.

The man behind the counter was half-asleep in his chair. His feet were propped up on the counter and he was wearing a pair of ratty jeans and work boots with the laces undone at the top. His white tee shirt was closer to grey. He had stubble on his face and a thin sheen of sweat on his bald palate. Amris thought he looked like a troll.

The lobby had a dingy feel to it, making Kiera want a shower as soon as she stepped in the room. The ceiling fan made a swishing sound as it made slow circuits over the single dim bulb used to light the room. The troll behind the counter looked up, taking an immediate interest in the possibility of new customers.

Amris took the lead, leaning on the counter. “We're looking for Leo Jarvis, he gave this as his last known address. Can you check your records? This would have been about a month ago."

The man behind the counter looked from Amris to Kiera and back again. “You don't look like no cops."

Kiera spoke up, keeping her voice soft and fragile. “We aren't. I'm Leo's niece and I'm just so worried about him. If you could do anything to help us, we would really appreciate it.” She avoided looking at the man, afraid he would see the deception in her eyes. Instead, she kept her head down as if trying to hold back tears.

"I might know somethin’ about your uncle.” The receptionist got a sly, predatory look in his eye. “But I'm very busy right now. It would have to be worth my time."

Amris looked around the counter and the lobby at the non-existent line up of patrons and customers and sighed. “I can see you're busy. And I can also see exactly how much your time is worth.” Amris reached into his wallet and pulled out a twenty dollar bill.

"Twenty bucks?” The receptionist laughed and grunted. “You ain't getting squat for twenty bucks."

"Think of it as a down payment.” Amris smiled. “The better the information we get on where Miss Jarvis’ uncle went, the more you stand to make."

"You ain't related?"

"No. Miss Jarvis hired me to help. She thinks her uncle came to harm and she's hired me to help find him. It's important to her to know if he's safe or not."

Amris figured it had been some time since the wheels in the clerk's head had ever been forced to move at all and he was slow in figuring out exactly what the current situation mean to him. Finally he appeared to come to a decision and snapped the twenty out of Amris’ hand.

Then he turned to the ledger and flipped back a page. “Hmmmph ... Jarvis, eh? Yeah. Here he is. He got his room on the fifth of the month and paid for two weeks. Cash up front.” He turned to Kiera and smiled. “He was a pretty nice fella, your uncle was. Always generous with the tips."

"You wouldn't happen to remember the last time he was generous would you?” Amris asked pointedly. “I can tell by your ledger he never cleared out when he was supposed to."

The receptionist frowned at Amris’ interruption. “Yeah, I remember. It was on the ninth. He'd already been in town a few days and had already had his meeting...” Then he shut up.

Kiera felt Amris tense next to her and struggled to maintain her own composure. She didn't want to seem too eager or the receptionist would see his information as being even more valuable than he did currently. “Yes, we know about the meeting with Mr. Grey. I would like to talk to him as well but I don't know how to find him. Did he tell you where they were meeting?"

The man behind the counter remained silent for a long moment. His speculative gaze slid from Amris to Kiera as if trying to determine just how much they knew. Amris’ hunch about just which meeting the clerk was talking about, clearly made an impression. The clerk looked at Amris pointedly. “I don't remember.” The hand on the counter flipped so it was palm up in an obvious hint. He was done playing ignorant and was simply out to get as much as he could for what information he had left to bargain with.

Amris set another twenty dollar bill across the open palm. “Remember."

"Seems to me he said something about a club on State Street.” The man said closing his hand around the bill and tucking it into his pocket. “He seemed to know this guy Grey pretty well though. Said he finished one business deal and was setting up another. Sounded to me like they were pretty friendly."

"What happened to his belongings? The ones left in the room when he didn't check out?” Amris asked, his eyes narrowing.

The receptionist shrugged. “Management confiscated it since he was a no show for check out. He had run up some phone calls that needed to be paid for."

Kiera's stomach flipped and she had to swallow down her excitement. “I would like to take his belongings home with me. There may be a clue in them that can help us find him."

Amris looked the guy over and said, “We'll pay the phone bill to clear that up if you bring his stuff out. Then we'll be able to take it off your hands."

"You're looking at quite the bill though. Nothing but long distance charges. Guess this Grey fella didn't live around here.” The clerk turned back to his register and brought up a small sheaf of papers. After a moment, he thumbed one out of the stack and shoved it at Amris over the counter. “See what I mean?"

Amris nodded and whistled. “Two hundred and fifteen bucks. That's some pretty steep calls for a four-day stay. How much has this been padded?"

The clerk smiled but it wasn't a pleasant look for him. “Enough."

"You have the numbers these calls were made to?” Amris hoped they might be able to track down whoever Jarvis had been talking to even quicker.

"Hey, we're not a sophisticated place like some of those other hotels. I remember it was long distance though. North of here. Up around Brown County and Gnaw Bone. A few was made further east though. Detroit area code."

"Okay. I can pay this if you want to get his stuff for us."

The clerk shook his head. “Pay first. Then I'll get his stuff."

Amris nodded and took out his wallet. He had made sure he had sufficient cash to work with before leaving the compound. Untraceable and for the most part unnoticeable, cash was even more effective to use when dealing with the likes of the clerk than any other commodity. Besides which, Amris was hardly afraid of being mugged. He paid the clerk, got his change, and then together Amris and Kiera waited for the hotel troll to get Leo's last belongings.

Kiera couldn't wait to leave. Her skin was fairly crawling between the grimy furniture and the slimy little man they had to deal with. “Please tell me we're not staying here.” She whispered half joking to Amris, just to break some of the tension.

Amris chuckled. “No, Kiera. We have reservations across town at the Hilton.” Amris kept his voice low. Though they seemed to be alone in the lobby at the moment, there were too many shadows for his peace of mind. Granted, he scented no danger or eavesdropper, but that didn't make him feel any more secure.

The man returned several moments later with a medium size suitcase and a cardboard box. The box looked like it had been taped closed at one point but the flaps were bent and torn now. Noting Amris’ expression, he hastily defended himself. “It wasn't like this last time I saw it. It was all boxed up nice and tight. Someone done been through it but I dunno who.” Considering the condition of the box, he wisely chose not to ask for any more cash. He set the box on the counter to make it easier for Kiera to take possession of it. The suitcase hit the counter with a hard thud. “Damn that thing is heavy.” He said pushing it toward Amris.

Without another word Amris took the handle of the suitcase, lifting it from the counter with ease with one hand. His other hand found the small of Kiera's back as he escorted her out of the dimly lit lobby and into the sunlight. Kiera couldn't prevent the soft sigh of relief when she heard the door close behind them.

Twenty minutes later they were safely ensconced in the security of their own hotel room. Their own suitcase was at the side of the wall, and Leo's lay open in the middle of the bed. They rifled through the suitcase pretty easily. It was quickly evident that whatever Leo had been paid for killing Adric, he hadn't spent any of it on wardrobe.

The shirts were new enough, but they could have been bought at a local Wal-Mart as much as anywhere else. Two pair of jeans, some socks, underwear, and nothing else of any interest. They thought they had come up empty when Kiera unrolled a tee shirt and a small notebook fell to the bed.

It was a brown, spiral bound book about two inches wide and four inches tall. When Kiera picked it up and started flipping through it, she knew she had found something important.

"What is it, Kiera?” Amris asked quietly, forcing himself to remain as calm as possible.

Kiera was quiet for a moment as she read from a random page. “It's like a journal or diary ... but not that sophisticated. Some pages are dated and read like a diary entry, others are just random thoughts he wanted to jot down or things he needed to remember.” She turned back to the front and started reading methodically through the small book.

Amris left her to the deciphering of the journal's contents to turn back to the suitcase. The case was soon emptied and its contents quickly found their way onto the bed with the rest of the clothes. Amris lifted it to search the rest of the pockets. The case was still considerably heavier than it looked considering it was empty. Laying it back down flat on the floor, he checked again to be sure he had gotten everything. Something caught his eye and he noticed the corner of the bottom was not even.

Reaching into the case, he caught the loose corner with his fingernail and lifted. What he had thought was the bottom of the suitcase was actually a thin cardboard divider. Once the divider was lifted, another case was revealed. This one was slightly smaller and much thinner than the actual suitcase, but it was still just as boxy and was a snug fit in the bottom of the suitcase.

"What's that?” Kiera asked with wide-eyed curiosity, as she looked up from the journal.

"I don't know.” Amris said taking the case out of the suitcase. “It's heavy as hell though.” Laying the smaller box on the bed, he found the catch and opened it. Amris whistled low in surprise. Nestled within a carefully molded foam lining, were the pieces of a specially designed pistol.

Kiera paled at once. She knew she was looking at the gun that had killed her brother. She knew it with a cold certainty that ran through her blood. She should have expected it, prepared for it. She should have, but she hadn't even thought of it. Now, the bright metal gleamed at her indicating how well the firearm had been taken care of. She reached out a trembling hand and touched the piece that would be the barrel when the gun was assembled. Unable to speak, she jerked her hand back as if burned and swallowed back the tears that threatened to spill from her eyes.

"Kiera...” Amris touched her cheek, drawing her attention to him. “It can't hurt anyone any more,” he said softly. He couldn't take away the past, but he could make damn sure this gun was never used against anyone else.

Kiera cleared her throat. She turned her head slightly, kissing his fingertips before sitting back on the bed and turning her attention back to the notebook.

With Kiera distracted enough from the gun by the notebook, Amris collected the pieces of the weapon and put them down on the floor out of Kiera's vision. He sat on the floor with the scattered pieces and looked them over.

The large handgun was a well-fashioned weapon. It was certainly a one of a kind. The barrel was a newly minted metal, and when he checked the bore, it had the clean look of a new weapon. He could see where the barrel clipped onto the chamber so he put the gun together, and then screwed the small base plate into position. After a closer examination, he realized the chamber actually had a small magazine that seemed to be a part of the overall chamber assembly. Whoever had made this gun was an expert and though he could hate its purpose, Amris had to admire its construction.

Amris ran the bolt back and a round flew out of the chamber and bounced onto the carpet.

He actually jumped up in surprise, dropping the handgun onto the sculpted foam. “Holy—!” He had not expected to find a round in the chamber, and he certainly did not expected to see a bullet that looked like this one.

The cartridge seemed normal enough, but the round itself was like a thing out of a nightmare. Constructed almost totally out of a transparent plastic gel, Amris could see the soft, sinewy motion of the liquid silver mercury underneath. He knew, almost immediately and instinctively, how the bullet would work.

Once the gun fired the bullet, the plastic shell would rapidly break down, disintegrating almost immediately when it penetrated a Lycan's body. That would be when the silver mercury would do its damage. The liquid silver was poisonous, and deadly to a Lycan. It was certainly possible, Amris knew, for a Lycan to die from normal wounds. Cheri, in fact, had almost died during Kiera's Challenge of the Hunt. Her rescue at his mate's hands had gone a long way to cementing Kiera's position at his side. Most Lycans had a regenerative system that was nothing short of amazing, and unless the damage they suffered was truly traumatic, they would recover in time.

Unless silver was present. Part of their healing system was tainted when silver was involved in an injury. The silver did something to their immune system as well, and instead of allowing them to heal their wounds, it acted as an inhibitor. It not only cancelled out their regenerative capabilities, but poisoned the victim as well. Worse, any damage caused by silver burned and had to be healed normally, if it was at all possible. The liquid silver in the head of this bullet would flow along a Lycan's bloodstream, burning along the way and do horrible internal damage.

That bullet was intended for one thing only; to kill Lycans.

He remembered then, how Leo had not been terrified at his changing. He recalled how Leo had seemed to accept it as normal, the fact that two Lycan were talking to him. He looked at the bullet in his hand from Leo's gun and for the first time that he could ever remember, he was afraid for his Race's survival.

"Amris, listen to this.” Kiera said frowning over the notebook. She took a breath and read aloud:

"Got a weird call today. This guy Amos has a problem he needs to have taken care of immediately. If Marco hadn't vouched for him, I wouldn't have listened longer than five seconds. It sounds so crazy. He's supposed to be some high mucky muck with the local werewolves. Yeah. Werewolves. If the money wasn't so damn good, I wouldn't care if Marco vouched for him or not ... the guy has flipped his lid. But he says if I do well with this one, he has more jobs for me. At the money he's quoting, I could retire on this guy alone. Have to see the color of his green first, though..."

She was quiet for a minute, flipping the page. “He's got a list here of all the places Adric went and descriptions of who he met with. He must have been following him for several days.” She turned another page and started reading once more.

"Amris not Amos. He made damn sure I get his name right, real bastard about it too. Hell, I'll call him God almighty if he'll show me the secret to that shit. Fucking changed shape. Right there in front of me. I still can't believe what I saw. Jesus! Man, I can only imagine what it would be like to have that kind of power."

"What the blazes is going on, Kiera?” Amris asked the question knowing she didn't have an answer, but he just needed ask it anyway. “I have to admit, I thought at first this was Fenris, screwing up like he usually does, and getting Adric killed in the process. I thought this was a case of him wanting to get you out of his Pack because you were lippy and argumentative and ignored his authority."

"But this ... this is nothing Fenris could have thought up. It's got to be someone else. It's someone who not only knows about Lycan, but he knows about our weaknesses. He knows our habits. He ... knows me, or thinks he does.” Amris struggled through the thoughts forming in his head. Was this the first motions in a war between the Lycans and some others? Could their cousins, the felines, be looking to start a war? What of the other races lying hidden in the shadows? Damn it, Amris thought, it could be anyone.

"Could be a woman.” Kiera interjected. “You keep saying he, he, he, but we ladies can get pretty nasty when we want. It could be anyone, dear. Even a woman."

Amris rose from the floor, the bullet in his hand. He hated the idea of even handling it. Deep within him, a primal fear was urging him to throw it away, but it was evidence of the growing threat to the Lycan race. He needed to keep it close.

"Is there anything in that notebook about these little beauties?” He asked with a voice tight with emotion.

Until that moment, Kiera had never quite gotten a good look at the bullet in Amris’ hand. Now that she could see it under the harsh light of the motel lamp, her breath caught in her throat. The silver moved under the gel cap head like a softly flowing globule in a lava-lamp, shifting and rolling in some unknown substance. Her eyes locked on the smooth motion and she could barely hold back the scream that threatened to rush from her throat.

The forest floor was wet with blood and the stench of it filled her senses. Adric's face was strained with his pain. His eyes locked on hers, his gaze so frightened that Kiera knew he felt his death coming upon him. His scream when the pain hit was terrifying and she could do nothing but scream with him.

The silver flooded his chest, and the sickly sweet sting of its scent filled her nostrils. Silver ... it was silver...

"That thing killed Adric.” Her breathing rushed from her as she stared at it, the sight of her brother, and the silver that was wrapped around his heart filling her mind. “That ... that is what killed Adric. Moon and Stars ... it was that thing!"

She started to crawl backwards off the bed, her instinctive fear of the silvery substance forcing her to get as far away from it as possible. “They murdered him, Amris!” Her eyes filled with tears as the memory of his agony came back to her. The sight of his pain, and his final words ... Kiera, I love you.

Kiera collapsed to the floor, sobbing. It was all right there now. The memory she had tried so hard to forget. The sight of the bullet in Amris’ hand was like a wound tearing open once more, and the shock and pain of the memory was real all over again.

Amris dropped the bullet on the bed and rushed to his mate's side. Her anguish was tearing at him physically, almost driving him to his own knees. He knelt beside her, holding her tight, and rocking her in his arms. In that moment, he was struck with the oddity of the Hunt Mark. Had it truly been given because she had disobeyed her Leader? Or was it because she had seen the wound first hand and though she had not realized the importance of it at the time, knew silver was involved? Had she seen too much? The Mark seemed contrived to Amris, it always had been. Fenris’ decision to ban any Hunter from going after Adric's killer had never made any sense to him, though it seemed like some of the pieces were coming together to paint a very dark picture indeed.

"Kiera ... I'm sorry, love. I know it hurts.” Amris felt her pain like a sledgehammer in his gut, but if they were to move on, he had to fight past that pain, and help her. “We can find them, lover.” He kissed her forehead. “We can find out who did this, and we can punish them.” He kissed a tear-stained cheek. “Leo was only the beginning,” Amris said, talking now to the Huntress that was his mate. “Our hunt is just beginning, my mate. And I need you to be strong."

Now the Bond started working for them. Instead of Kiera's pain and anguish, Amris now fed her his strength, and his anger. He gave her the strength and power of a Pack Master, and she took it in using it to regain her self.

It took a few minutes, but eventually Kiera rose to her feet, still held in Amris’ arms.

"I'm okay. I'll be all right.” She kissed him gently on the lips. “Thank you."

Amris held her until she moved on her own, out of his arms, her strength restored by their Bond. “Is there anything, Kiera, in his journal about these bullets?” His voice was gentle as he repeated his original question, but the matter was too important to wait.

Kiera nodded her head, remembering reading a passage earlier, but not understanding it until now. She moved back to the bed and picked up the notebook once more. Kiera flipped through the last pages of the notebook, then stopped and took a breath before she started reading again.

"Well, this is the neatest job I've ever done. Even has it's own ammo requirement. These are the slickest little things I've ever seen. Amris said they kill a Lycan with one hit. I noticed he only gave me a couple out of the box, though. Kinda makes me wonder who he's got such a hate on for, that he's making me ready to shoot some of his own werewolf buddies."

Kiera took a deep breath and continued.

"Far as I'm concerned now, as soon as this Adric werewolf is dead, I'm taking my money and moving west. These freaks can have Detroit."

"A couple out of the box!? How many of these things are out there?” Amris rose off the bed and started pacing. He felt trapped and vulnerable, and even worse he had allowed Kiera to leave the protection of the Pack with these bullets on the street somewhere. “We need to warn Khefris. We need to warn Ryka. We need to warn Horus and Ransom before they get to Detroit. If Leo got this stuff there, and this Marco fellow knows about us..."

Amris’ eyes were hard when he picked up the phone and dialed Horus’ number. Then he cursed and slammed the receiver down. “No answer. Damn it, it's only six thirty. What the hell is he doing that he's ignoring his phone?"

Kiera couldn't help herself, she burst out laughing. “Oh honey, you saw them in the back of the SUV. If that were you and me alone on a train for nine hours ... would you be answering your phone?"

As much as he didn't want to, he couldn't help but smile. “I guess not. But we'll have to try him later. I still have more calls to make, and the first one needs to be to Ulric."

"The Lycan Lord?” Kiera was surprised that Amris, as a Master, would have a means to contact the Lord directly. Certainly, he would need access to Duke Falen, Ulric's twin brother, and they would have to talk fairly often on court matters, but the Lord himself? It seemed Amris was still surprising her.

"Ulric and I are actually friends from ... earlier. He was there, in fact, the first time I came into a Fever. I almost died; I was that badly hurt, but he pulled me through. If anybody needs to know about these things it's him."

Amris dialed the number from memory and within a minute, the gruff, deep voice of the Lycan Lord was on the phone. “Amris. You have any idea what time it is, pup?"

"Sorry, my Lord but it is urgent.” Amris knew Ulric valued his dinnertime, it was the only time of the day he allowed himself to ignore the burdens of his role and simply enjoy his time with Jazz. Without any further preamble, Amris told Ulric about the silver bullets and the modified pistol. He told him about the notebook and the indication that there were even more of them out there. Then he told him about he and Kiera going to Detroit.

"You're trying to take this on alone, Amris? Are you crazy? I can have fifty Lycan meet you in Detroit as soon as you arrive."

Amris smiled. “I appreciate that, Ulric. But right now, I don't know what I'm even looking for. Horus is lending a hand on this, and I have Kiera with me as well. I won't refuse fifty hunters, but I'm thinking it might be best to just put them on their toes and alert them to what is happening."

"I think you're right, but ... shit. Silver fucking bullets?” Only those closest to the Lord ever heard him cuss. Ulric paused for only a moment before continuing. “I'll take your advice on this for now, Amris. You've always had a smart head on your shoulders and I trust your judgment. But if you need them, or you think you even might need them, you call and they'll be there. Understand?"

"I understand."

"Good. Now let me talk to that dam of yours. The one with the Hunt Mark."

It didn't surprise Amris that Ulric knew about the Mark. The Lycan Lord seemed to know almost everything of importance that affected his Packs. Everything except the silver bullets, anyway.

Amris handed the phone to Kiera, and grinned when she went pale just touching the receiver. “He wants to talk to you."

"My Lord Talon?” Kiera spoke hesitantly into the phone. This was a man who, with a word, could order any Lycan's death. He could strip them of their title, or of their very being. Yet here she was, a fugitive from her own Pack, speaking to him on the phone.

"I just wanted to tell you, Mistress Grey, how sorry I am that I couldn't make it to your Ceremony. From what I have already heard, you were beautiful and graceful. Everything a Lycan Master could hope for in his Mistress.” Ulric's voice was gruff, but even across the miles and through the static of the phone, there was no denying his sincerity.

"Amris deserves a dam of your caliber, Kiera. I'm pleased that you have found each other."

"Th ... thank you, my Lord.” Then she smiled. “He makes me happy, too."

Amris had no problem hearing Ulric's laughter coming from the speaker of the phone. Then he added, “I want to meet you at the Gathering, Mistress Grey. We have things that need to be cleared up there."

"Yes, my Lord.” Her smile had gotten wider. Was he assuring her the Mark was to be rescinded? Kiera was afraid to read too much into the request.

Ulric chuckled again, before his tone grew serious once more. “You be careful in Detroit, Kiera. You and Amris both. I'm serious when I said I want to meet you. Don't get yourself hurt running these things to ground. Now let me talk to your Mate."

"Yes, my Lord. We'll be careful.” Kiera handed the phone back to Amris and Ulric spoke a few more minutes with him before hanging up.

"Okay, that's Ulric dealt with. Now we need to call Duke Falen and the other Masters and let them know what's happening. I just hope Horus finds my message in time to call us back.” Amris settled in for a long night on the phone while Kiera went back to reading in case there was something more to be gained from the notebook.

Ransom studied herself in the small bathroom mirror. She had excused herself for a moment while Horus waited for their dinner. The black silk gown hugged her curves like a second skin, making her feel beautiful and seductive. Hector had packed her clothes with seduction in mind, and she had several such outfits to choose from. Most of his selections suited the sluttish whore he expected her to be and she had discounted wearing them at once. This particular one appealed to her, though, and was more than suitable for an intimate dinner while inciting a hunger of a different kind at the same time.

Still, when she looked at herself, she saw a stranger in the mirror. It bothered her tremendously to be deceiving Horus so completely. It was with a sigh of relief she took out the colored lenses that turned her eyes blue, tossing them into the trash can. Master Horus said he wanted her. Ransom. Not a ghost from his past. She was thankful for that, tired of posing as someone she wasn't. The initial effect had worked to her advantage well enough, but now it was time to give him some honesty in return. Her deep green eyes were the first piece of herself she could give him, without guile or deception. It was a small thing, perhaps, but it made her feel a little bit better.

With a final fluff of her hair, she moistened her lips and turned to the door. Taking a deep breath for courage, she turned out the light and stepped into the main cabin. Shades had been drawn against the waning light of day, a single candle was set in the corner of the room, so that the shadows were deepened by the bed, and the rest of the room flickered between light and dark. It was like stepping into a fantasy. Instinctively Ransom knew exactly where Horus was as he stood in the shadows of the far corner of the room. He was there in the shadows, waiting and watching her.

Horus was still holding his breath when Ransom stepped out of the small bathroom. Every time he saw her, she seemed more beautiful and entrancing than the last and this time was no different. Her blonde hair stood out in stark contrast to her black gown, and served to highlight and frame her face. Her gown was perfection, and he almost sighed aloud at the way it hugged her body. That would have implied he was breathing, and Horus was still holding his breath, hoping she wasn't a dream that would vanish when he woke.

She seemed to be waiting for something from him. He coughed, tried to breathe, then coughed again.

"You are ... well, you know ... uhh ... that gown is ... and you are ... and...” She had him talking like an idiot again. Why couldn't he just say she was the most beautiful woman he had ever known? Well, there was Janise of course, and the resemblance was there, but this wasn't Janise. Ransom wasn't Janise. She looked different and smelled different, and Horus appreciated that difference more than he realized. Her musk was almost ... purer to his senses. She wanted to enjoy herself, and her scent told Horus he may be lucky enough to share that enjoyment.

"Dinner is here.” He moved to the small table and pulled the chair out for her. As she eased into the seat, Horus found himself sneaking a glance down the front of her gown. He flushed for a moment when he noticed she was naked beneath her flimsy material. When he got a heady, full on scent of her musk he couldn't stop himself and he dipped his head to hers. His lips touched her neck briefly, but in that instant he tasted her skin, and took a deep breath of her, filling his senses with her presence.

He moved quickly to his own seat, and opened up the second bottle of wine. He had ordered steaks for them both, and hoped she like her meat as rare as he liked his. If not, he would send it back, and curse the delay in getting dinner over with.

Ransom was amused and touched at Horus’ obvious discomfort though she did not show it. It gave her a measure of relief that he was so nervous he could not complete a sentence. At least she was a bit more comfortable than that. Then his lips touched her skin and though the kiss was brief, it sent little tongues of flame through her blood. She closed her eyes, barely able to stifle the gasp that his touch evoked. Her face flushed as the temperature in the room seemed to rise a degree or two.

When the dome to keep the food warm was lifted from her plate she smiled. “It smells wonderful.” Setting her napkin in her lap, she looked across the table at him. Moon and Stars, he was handsome to look at. If she was going to make it through her meal without leaping the table and devouring him instead, she would have to find something for them to talk about. “Do you have a family?” She asked, voicing the first thought that came to mind.

Horus mentally sighed in relief. Good. Talk about his family. That was good. That was safe. Then he wouldn't have to think about how sexy she looked. Or how much he wished the train would start going around in circles so they would never have to leave their intimate little sanctuary.

"I've got a sister. Isis. She moved out west. Followed some stray out there, looking to hook up with a Pack in the Bay area.” He laughed. “She was surprised when Amris said he was having a Bonding. Figured he was going to end up like me...” Shit. That was lame. Again. “But my sire and dam are both down in Florida. The warmer weather there is better for them. They're both getting older."

He topped off his glass and was shocked he couldn't even remember drinking the first one. This stuff was smooth. He topped off Ransom's glass at the same time noticing that she too had been drinking hers almost as quickly. He did like the fact that she was digging right into the steak. Apparently, she liked her meat as rare as he did.

As she chewed, he noticed a thin trail of blood at the corner of her mouth. He found the sight exciting, and it touched something of his animal spirit. Acting on the spur of the moment, Horus leaned forward and kissed the corner of her mouth, flicking his tongue over the thin red line. His head was filled with the scent of the blood, and the rich, sweet scent of her musk filling the cabin.

Ransom never saw him coming at her. Her eyes had to remain on her plate or she would be so totally distracted she would forget to eat and the evening would never progress. She opened her mouth to gasp at the touch of his tongue to her lips and then he was there. Suddenly he filled her senses completely with nothing more than a kiss. His heat, his scent, her world became Horus for that brief moment in time.

When he pulled away, she was so lightheaded she almost grabbed him back to her, actually dropping her fork to reach for him before she caught herself. He had gone to the effort to provide this beautiful dinner, and Ransom didn't want to seem ungrateful by leaving it alone to sate her other hungers.

"Florida must be nice this time of year.” She said, picking up her fork. Her voice sounded strained even to her. The lame comment had her wincing inwardly and she quickly took a drink to steady her nerves. By the Moon, she remembered now why she didn't drink. It made her feel slow and stupid, though the warmth stealing through her was nice. Then a frightened thought grabbed a hold of her and wouldn't let go. Was she hot because of the wine, or because she couldn't resist Horus’ heated gaze? No. She knew an instant later. No wine could make her feel so needy.

Horus almost apologized for being so forward. She looked like she had wanted the kiss, though, and by the Stars he had wanted to give it to her! Now that he was seated, and the moment seemed to have passed, he was glad he hadn't apologized. She had liked it! He could tell by the flush in her skin, and the redness in her cheeks. Mostly he could tell by the way the room's heat suddenly seemed to have climbed through the roof, and by the way the scent of her musk suddenly seemed spiked with a hunting desire.

Horus drank some more wine. “Yeah. Florida's great.” Shit. He was sounding lame again. He had some more of his steak, savoring the taste of the rare meat. When he looked up he saw that Ransom was leaning over to him and this time when her lips touched his, her tongue snaked out and swiped at the small trickle of blood that was on his chin. That was all it took.

His hands came up to the side of her head and bumped into her own as she held his mouth to hers. His fingers threaded through her hair, and he knew he should be breathing, but it seemed to take such an effort, and that would mean letting her go.

Finally they separated, and the room was no longer dark and shadowy in Horus’ mind. Now the room was filled only with the vision of Ransom in front of him.

"Ransom...” He tried to keep his voice calm, but there was no hiding the desire in his blood.

Oh to hell with dinner, she thought. She simply nodded, and his mouth was on hers again.

Ransom all but crawled over the small table onto Horus’ lap. She couldn't get close enough. Her body pressed against his as tightly as she could while her hands roamed across his chest. He was so broad, so strong. Ransom couldn't believe anything could get past those broad shoulders or tight chest. He was all muscle, solid as a wall and just as sturdy, yet his lips on hers were perfect and gentle. She could feel the barely restrained power within him in every touch, and she longed to feel that power released.

When his arms tightened around her, she felt so safe and secure she never wanted to move. The kiss deepened and he was crushing her to him, moaning into the kiss. She wiggled in his lap in response, her thigh brushing against his hardness. She felt his body tense around hers and she sighed at the thrill of power.

She felt so small and delicate in his hands, but Horus knew she had the strength of a Lycan bitch. She would be able to handle him. When her thigh had rubbed across his hard length he couldn't help but twitch in anticipation. When she wriggled into his lap her gown rode up to the tops of her thighs, her flesh was bared to his touch. His hands glided over the soft creamy skin, and he had to smile when she twitched and danced under his fingers.

Their lips continued to dance across each other's faces, kissing and licking and nipping at skin. He felt her hands in his hair, and sighed at her touch. He licked at her collarbone, and her tremble at his touch gave him a sense of power he had never experienced before.

His hands slid up to her waist and he pushed the gown up and out of the way so that his hands could cup her bare behind. The temperature of the room seemed to rise several degrees quickly, her skin warmer still under his hands. He could smell her musk; that delightful heady scent of lust, need and desire.

"My shirt ... take it off.” His voice was getting deeper, more demanding. He wanted to feel his skin against the silk of her gown. He wanted to savor every tremble and twitch against his bare flesh. When his shirt hit the floor of the sleeper Horus moaned in delight as Ransom's hands refused to stop with his shirt and moved lower to undo the tops of his pants.

He stood up, and she dropped to the floor quickly yanking his pants to his ankles. He lifted her by her shoulders, pulling her body tight to his so that she could feel his surging erection grow and throb between them.

Ransom gave a low growl, her teeth catching his lower lip. Her upper body twisted so her chest was pressed against his. She pushed him back onto the chair straddling him as he fell into the seat. Her wet sex rubbed against his shaft making them both gasp. Her arms circled his neck, holding him fast with a strength her slight body could not seem to possess.

Her body was eager and wanting and she tried not to be intimidated by his large size. He took her breath away and she tried to reconcile herself that she had taken him once already, her body would be more ready for him this time. The alcohol in her system made her bolder than she thought possible and she slid a hand down Horus’ chest to wrap her fingers around his hard length.

Horus growled at her bold touch. His hands cupped her bottom, lifting her as he rose to his feet. The chair was not where he intended on taking her. He turned, kicking the chair out of the way and sending it to the other side of the sleeper. She kissed his mouth, even as her fingers closed tighter on his shaft, and the big man staggered, the air rushing from his lungs with a low growl. They nearly fell onto the bed, Horus’ weight pressing Ransom into the mattress. She moaned, a low, deep sound, loving the sensation of his larger body blanketing hers. Her teeth nipped his earlobe before sliding down to suckle at his neck lightly. She used her mouth on his skin while her hands roamed every inch they could reach. She couldn't get enough of touching him, feeling his skin against hers.

"By the Moon ... I need you.” Ransom groaned as he teased her with feather light touches that made her blood boil and her skin tingle. It wasn't enough. She needed more. Her legs moved restlessly, inching her skirt higher still, which was the intent after all. He was driving her insane, making her whimper softly when his fingertip flicked the hard pebble of her nipple.

Horus groaned at her touch, at her lips, at the insistent nibbling and biting from her teeth on his skin. Every nerve ending in his body seemed on fire. Her nipples were like beaded stone marbles pressing against the silk of her gown. He bit at them through the thin material and her shriek of ecstasy was barely muffled by the sound of the train's roaring wheels.

He forced her legs apart, though there was truly no resistance from her. His mouth went to her throat and he nuzzled and licked at her neck. He breathed in the full essence of her, drinking her in and filling himself with her musky desire.

His hand threaded her hair and he looked into her eyes, feeding on her need, thriving on the wanton desire he saw reflected there. “Then you shall have me."

His shaft pressed against her sex, and he felt her folds spreading for him. She gasped again at his size, but instead of recoiling from him, he felt her hips move upward, accepting him further. He did not stop or hesitate. He pressed firmly, ever deeper and he felt her legs kick against his thighs as he pressed into her heated core. She groaned at the sensation and he closed his mouth over hers, to share in her pleasure and breathe her lust into his mouth.

When he had penetrated her fully, he stopped for a moment. Her eyes were wet with joy but there was something different about their color. The difference registered in some part of his brain where that type of thing mattered, but the part that was seeking immediate satisfaction just didn't care at the moment.

Then his eyes took on a lusty, needful glare and he whispered, his lust filled smile still in place, “Hold on tight."

He knew she could handle his size now. She had already taken his full length and girth, and there was no doubt in his mind she had known pleasure. The first time, she had been in control. Now it was Horus’ turn. It was selfish he knew but he intended on seeing just how much Ransom could handle.

Ransom met Horus’ eyes with a surprised gasp. She had thought her body was ready for his until she felt herself being stretched to accommodate him. The soft growl in his voice combined with the burning fire in his eyes gave her a split second of apprehension. In a split second her fear was washed away with the knowledge she had of the man above her—inside her. Now was not the time for second thoughts; she would have to trust Horus fully. There was no doubt in her mind he knew exactly what he was doing.

She braced her heels against the mattress, her hips undulating under him as she moved experimentally, testing the feel of him. The silk of her gown moved between them. Bunched as it was around her hips it caressed them both with its soft texture. It was a unique feeling to still be partially clothed while her lover was completely naked. She wanted to ask him to let her up long enough to slip it off, but she couldn't bring herself to. He felt too damn good buried inside her.

Taking a deep breath, she let it out, forcing her body to relax around his. He filled her so completely it was as if he had become a part of her. There was little discomfort this time, the slight tingle easing with each passing second as she got used to him. He had that air of authority now that would not be denied. The full power of a Master only barely leashed within him. She shivered when he growled, “Now you're mine.” It was a heady feeling to know he was at the limit of his control and she had put him there.

Clasping her hands behind his neck, she did as instructed. Holding on to him for dear life, her expression soon became a mixture of fear and excitement. She pulled his head down to hers, as his hips slid back. The moment their lips touched, he was devouring her as he drove himself home again.

Her hips were forced up to meet him, her own need to capture him fully taking over. Her heels dug into the small mattress beneath her. His tempo started off at a steady pace, his thrusts and movements seeming just enough to let her get used to his size. Ransom was groaning and gasping with each filling stroke and Horus reveled in the power her surrender gave him.

He gloried in her body trembling beneath him. He reveled in the silk gown sliding along their skin. He could not get enough of her heady musk, and he could almost see the heat rising from her body. Her arms were tight around his neck, and he loved the way she just held on and let him guide their passion.

He kissed her and tasted her. He bit at her lip, and her throat. He tasted the salt of her skin. She was a part of all of his senses now and he consumed her as a wolf consumed a meal. He was voracious, demanding and intense in his need. Still, he appreciated her softness, so his assault always fell short of pain, instead concentrating only on the deep pleasure he could give her.

When he felt his first climax come upon him, he held her hips close, and thrust deeply, filling her with his shaft and his essence at the same time. His lips were on hers, and he was kissing her so hard he thought he would never breathe again.

Ransom looked up at him then, her eyes sparkling. Her smile was wide and he wanted to smile in return, but he could not. Not yet. Not until he was fully satisfied. He had climaxed once already, but his shaft was still as hard as stone, and his own need had barely been sated. He slipped from above her and rose to his feet. There was nothing in his vision but her. Nothing in his brain but the essence of her scent, and her need mingled with his.

Horus pulled her to her feet, and before she could resist, he spun her about and swept their dinner from the table before pressing her belly to the thin wooden surface. The clatter of their plates as they skidded off the table and crashed to the floor didn't distract him from his purpose. The wine bottle toppled to the carpet and spun a slow circle, spilling its’ contents in a lazy wet ring. With her legs spread to receive him, he threw the back of her gown over her shoulders.

Holding Ransom by the waist, Horus pushed his shaft inside her again, his penetration even deeper now. She howled in ecstasy at the sudden deep thrust, and he growled low in his belly. Then he started again. Ransom's breaths were expelled as explosive gasps as he filled her, over and over. Each thrust of his shaft received an answering gasp, and each withdrawal provided just enough time for Ransom to breathe deep before the next hard thrust. The slick essence of their earlier union provided him a smoother access to her depths now and he took advantage of it to its fullest.

The scent of the spilled wine mixed with the smell of the blood from their steak and the heady force of her tangy musk, until Horus was consumed by nothing more than the need to satisfy the insistent urges of his animal self. He fought for control so that she was not injured by the force of his desire, and it was a very near thing.

Ransom rode that razor thin edge between pleasure and pain, exulting in the experience. Though at first surprised, she was not disappointed by Horus’ stamina. He hadn't even stopped to catch his breath, or let her catch hers, after he peaked. He seemed driven by some inner demon that was sure to kill them both but she couldn't think of a better way to die.

Her hands fell to the top of the table, palms flat. Her fingertips curled around the edge as she found leverage to move against him, meeting him thrust for thrust. He was claiming her, possessing her. The idea of being bowed before him pressed against the table with nowhere to go, thrilled her beyond measure. She had no choice but to take what Horus gave her, for as long as he desired. She was at his complete mercy and she couldn't be happier about it.

His grunts chuffed in her ear, only spurning her on to meet him harder. Ransom couldn't take him deep enough, wanting to lodge him in her very soul. Tilting her hips up, she spread her legs wider giving her not only a sturdier stance but giving him the chance to go deeper. Her breasts were pressed flat to the table, bearing his weight with each thrust; her groans were punctuated with whimpers and muttered pleas. She wanted the moment to never end, their bodies locked together in eternal bliss. It was fanciful and ridiculous, but at that moment she could think of nothing else. Her orgasm hit hard and fast, suddenly blooming from deep within her core. She thrashed and moaned, unable to do more than grip the table tightly and allow Horus to ride her through it.

There was no denying Ransom had reached her climax by her thrashing legs and the orgasmic shriek that shook the window. To keep her as close to him as possible, Horus curled his arms under her and cupped her breasts, squeezing them firmly as he seated his length as deep as it would go. Then he achieved his own climax once more, shuddering and roaring his conquest, as his seed emptied into Ransom's willing body.

He almost fell forward, crushing her to the table. Instead, his hands released her breasts and he laid his palms flat on the table on either side of her, keeping her from being crushed beneath his weight. He slowly withdrew from her, careful now of his size and unwilling to hurt her in any way.

"Ransom...” He stepped back from her and helped her stand before turning her to face him. Her gown had started to fall again, but he caught it in his hands. Gently he kissed her, and pulled the gown over her head, baring her to his gaze. Then he kissed her once more as he slipped one hand beneath her breasts, and the other on her bare hip.

He should say something, he thought. He wanted to say something. She was beautiful and wonderful, and he thought that there was more than a little something special now between them. He knew now that he was developing feelings for her; just as he had for Janise, but he was afraid. This wasn't Janise, Ransom was a completely different woman, and she was special. He knew he should say something, but words never came easily to Horus, especially around women, and he had let his body do the talking. All he could do now was kiss her lips gently once again.

Ransom returned the kiss and more. She had noticed the change in him at once. She thought he was trying to show her she meant something to him, and though she was suddenly afraid, she couldn't let her own fear show. Her hands slid up his body to cup his face as she turned the kiss gentle. Soft and tender lips brushed the corners of his mouth. Her body crowded his, taking advantage of the moment of weakness that comes after a release of that magnitude to push him back into a chair.

He was still hard. Gasping to catch his breath, Ransom marveled at his constitution. He had taken her like a Master took his bitch; she was certain of that. Yet it hadn't weakened him in the slightest. Ransom smiled at the thought, because her own climax hadn't been enough for her either. She was hardly done with him yet.

Sliding into his lap, she guided him into her once again with a groan. She was so wet and hot, he slid into her with ease. Gripping his wrists, she brought his hands to her breasts as she rotated her hips, grinding against him. One hand rested on his shoulder while the other slid down his chest ever so slowly. Fingertips circled his flat nipple and she dipped her head to take it into her mouth. Horus groaned as her mouth teased him.

Her hand slid further still, down to where their bodies joined, her hips moving more forcefully on him. Her fingers slid between the folds of her own sex, manipulating the hard nubbin that would send her straight into erotic bliss. She lifted her gaze to meet his with a small, wicked smile.

He smiled with her and sat as still as he could, allowing her to use him once more for her pleasure. Her skin felt wonderful under his hands. He pinched her nipples, and her cries made him even harder within her. When she rocked herself against him, he sighed with pleasure and tilted his head back to take a deep breath.

When he brought his eyes back to hers, he gave her a wicked, lusty smile. Pinching one hard nipple between two fingers, he slipped his other hand over her belly until it covered her own at the apex of her sex. He placed his finger over hers, enjoying the slick soft feel of their union. Then he said in a clear, soft voice. “Show me."

Ransom raised a brow, her eyes holding his steadily as she guided his fingers with hers. She was primed and ready and his touch only served to light the fuse. Her back arched, pushing her breast deeper into his hand as her head fell back with a moan. Her inner muscles gripped him tightly as she raised and leaned back slightly, giving his fingers more room. Trapping the little nub of flesh between their fingers she gasped, letting out the air in a moan.

Her clit was throbbing, pulsing under their shared touch. Her nipple felt like it was on glorious fire, trapped between his fingertips. Ransom felt as if she would explode from the inside out, the moment she came, but she didn't care. Everything just felt so wonderful.

"Moon and Stars,” she said breathlessly, “I love ... how you make me feel.” Her hand closed over his, holding it steady as her hips rocked more, her legs lifting her up his length before dropping back onto it. Words became too complicated for her to form, and she was only able to express her pleasure with moans and sighs.

She had every intention of drawing out the pleasure. Of making it build within them both until they were ready to scream, but his fingers were working a magic she hadn't bargained on. It was more than she could control or hope to contain. She had thought him too worn to react, expecting him to simply let her have her fun. She should have known better than to expect a Pack Master to be passive in anything, much less sex.

Her sex was wet and supple beneath his fingers and it gave him a new, vicarious thrill to feel her body in such a way. That she not only had accepted his size, but also seemed to enjoy using him, overwhelmed him and the stirrings of an even stronger emotion continued to grow within him.

Then she started to shake in his hands. Her body rocked against his fingers and her teeth closed on his shoulder. He felt her muscles squeezing and shaking throughout her body and even with her teeth clamped onto his shoulder, her scream when she climaxed was long and loud.

She took his hand from between her legs and kissed it, licking her juices from his hand before offering it to him to taste. He did so willingly, accepting her taste just as he had welcomed her scent, and her beauty and the feel of her skin into his heart.

Ransom didn't move after peaking. She stayed on his lap, leaving him deep inside her. Her arms wrapped around his shoulders, pulling him close. For now, she was willing to let the gentle rocking and swaying motion of the train guide them.

For his part, Horus just wanted to hold her. He wanted to feel her skin beneath his fingers, and smell her hair against his face. “I love ... the way you make me feel, too, Ransom."

He found it strange and exciting and wonderful, to have shared such an incredible moment, yet he knew it was not yet over. He felt this was a momentary calm and that Ransom had further plans for them. So he held her close, without crushing her so he could enjoy her touch. He sighed with the rocking of the train, and the way she rolled on his lap in a gentle, soothing fashion. And he waited.

Ransom fell against Horus’ chest, gasping for air. She needed to gather her reserves, waiting for strength to return to her limbs. The tenderness of his voice touched her in a way that made her uneasy though she had to take several deep gulps of oxygen before she remembered why. Then the stark reality of why she was with him returned to her in all its ugliness. She cursed herself that she could actually have forgotten why she was here at all.

The gentle rocking of the train had them swaying together, moving their bodies with the motion. As her senses returned, she made the ultimate mistake of looking up at him. The tender emotion in his eyes stung. The absolute trust she saw in those brown depths caused her stomach to twist bitterly. She hated to abuse that trust by her situation. Hated what she was being forced to do to him, all to protect and save her father. If he gave her his heart, he would never forgive her for her deception. Ransom couldn't let that happen, yet she seemed powerless to avoid it. There was an attraction between them now that went beyond the physical and which could not be denied, and it terrified her.

Anger surged through her then. Anger at her father for his weakness and willingness to use her for his own gain. Anger at the ones holding his marker for putting her in this position. Anger at herself for entering the devil's bargain that went against all she held dear. Closing her eyes she sighed softly, knowing Horus to be too attentive. He would see the change in her, and wonder at the reason for it.

She leaned forward, unerringly finding his lips with hers and kissed him hard. Her body rose suddenly, falling again with pounding force. Again and again, she took him while her lips devoured his, anger fueling her. He was a good man and deserved better than anything she could give. He did not deserve to be treated with such callous disregard for his feelings. He didn't deserve to be an unwitting dupe to Hector's plans

His trust and acceptance made her feel cheap. A cheap whore who had sold herself to be used for reasons she couldn't begin to understand any longer. She needed to give him something, to grant him a gift that could in no way begin to atone for her sins, but might ease her own conscience. She would see he was well satisfied and completely sated. He may look back on her with hatred later, but he would have no complaints about her ability to please him.

Ransom had been sent to Horus to distract him, but she doubted her father would approve of the manner in which she used him now. The brutal force she used to drive herself onto him was but a small punishment for the lies she was going to be telling this wonderful sire. The pain only served to inspire her to give more. It wasn't enough to pay for what she was going to do to him in other ways. She rammed herself onto his massive member over and over in a frenzied need to bring him as much pleasure as possible, to counter-balance the pain she knew she would cause later.

Horus detected a change in her when she looked into his eyes for that split second. At first he thought she was angry with him. Upset for mistreating her, or hurting her. Then her lips were on his and it erased any thought that she was angry with him. She started moving again along his shaft, forcing herself onto him with an intensity that almost took his breath away. She held herself to him by her lips and her hands, and the continual plunging of her body onto his length. He marveled at her ability to handle his size, when she herself was so small. Then she continued her attack, driving herself up and down his length, over and over until any rational thoughts he may have been forming were soon dispelled.

"Raaansooommmm...” His head flew back and he climaxed once more. His hands grasped her hips as he pressed her onto him, pushing hard enough that she cried out with him.

Horus would never have believed it possible, but she had taken him to the limits of his endurance. She had to have been exhausted herself, he thought, as she collapsed in his arms, holding him close.

"I ... you are...” He needed to say it, but it was too soon. He wanted to tell her what she had done for him, by her unselfish act, but he didn't know if it was real enough. Not yet. He had to say something, though because in the last two days, she had re-made him. “I think, Ransom ... I...” Say it, damn it, he thought. Say it! “I...” Horus breathed out a slow, smooth breath, to gather his courage and hope that he wasn't being stupid. “...love you...” His voice was a whisper. A part of him actually hoped that she hadn't heard him make such a fool of himself, but another part desperately hoped that was what she wanted to hear.

Ransom couldn't help but hear his words, even whispered as they were. She was a Lycan, and after her climax, her senses were at their peak. Even whispered, his words may as well have been shouted from a bullhorn. When she heard his pledge, Ransom couldn't keep the tears from forming in her eyes and sliding down her cheeks.

The salty tears tasted bitter on her tongue.

She felt her heart stop in her chest, and her breath catch. It was the last thing she needed or wanted to hear from him. She couldn't look at him for a long moment, but she couldn't let him go either. Her own self-loathing only increased with each passing second until she wanted to scream and pull her hair out. Only with a tremendous effort was she able to keep from breaking down completely in his arms.

Horus moved his hand to take her chin pulling her head up to face him. She closed her eyes at the last second, unwilling to let him see her pain. He was far too observant for her to run the risk. His lips moved over hers tenderly as he lifted her into his arms and rose to his feet. Ransom was amazed he had the strength to lift them both so easily. Fortunately for him it wasn't far to the bed.

She issued a small protest, kissing his chest. “You go on and lay down. I'm going take a shower and clean up a little or I'll never get comfortable.” Wiggling out of his arms, her feet hit the floor lightly but her own strength had waned and she wobbled on unsteady legs before slipping into the bathroom.

He smiled at her back as she slipped into the small en suite bath provided for the overnight travelers. Then he looked at the mess they had made of the cabin. Ransom had said she was going to clean up, but there was no sense him asking her to clean the cabin after she showered. Sure, he was a Pack Master and he could order her to, but that just wasn't his style. Especially not now. She was his bitch now, and though she was not his equal in any Pack's eye, she was his partner. So Horus bent to the task of collecting the food that had scattered on the floor, gathering up the wine bottle, and picking up the scattered dinnerware.

Horus grinned at the wine bottle, remembering how the smell of the wine had added to the moment's passion. Ransom. He had admitted deeper feelings for her than he would have thought he could have for someone after so short a time together. As he reflected on his statement, though, he could not deny its truth. He was falling for her. Had already fallen for her. Harder than he had ever fallen for Janise, even. With Janise, he had always felt there was someone else, some other motive behind why she was with him. With Ransom, it was different. A chance encounter at Amris’ Bonding, a chance to do something to help his friend together, and suddenly his heart was dropping like a brick.

He smiled again as he looked around the room. Was there two feet of space in this sleeper they hadn't made love? Horus didn't think so. He had just finished cleaning up when he found his cell phone under the sleeper bed. It was showing a missed message, but for the life of him, Horus could not even remember the damned thing ringing.

It was Amris’ number on the caller ID and he almost keyed it in then, but it might be news that Ransom should hear too, and it was always better to get that information first hand. Horus slid into the bed, naked, his cell phone within reach and waited for her to emerge from her shower, though how Ransom could make herself more beautiful, Horus had no idea.

Ransom leaned against the bathroom door and hung her head, letting the tears flow freely. By the Moon, what had she done? She couldn't keep it up. Once they reached Detroit, she would tell Horus to send her home. It was fun, thanks for the ride, I'm out of here. It would kill her but she had to. It would devastate him, but no more than finding out she was here to deceive him. To distract him.

She couldn't bear the sight of herself in the mirror, refusing to even look that direction.

She had to breathe deeply to keep from sobbing aloud, afraid the sound would carry out to him. Surely he was asleep by now, knowing she had worn him out Ransom was fairly confident of that at least. Still, she couldn't take the chance he would hear her and come to investigate. Blindly she reached out and turned on the shower, letting the water simply run as tears streamed down her face.

She was able to pull herself together enough to dig her cell phone out of the pocket of the jeans she had left on the floor when she had changed into the gown for dinner. Her fingers trembled as she sent off the message to her father, reporting her current whereabouts and informing him, she was coming home. Tossing the phone onto the top of the toilet, she stepped into the scalding water. It wasn't enough. She could never clean the stain on her soul from her deception or what it was doing to Horus.

Her legs wouldn't hold her and she had to sit on the shower floor, letting the water cascade over her body as she wept. By the time the emotional storm was spent, the water had cooled. Mechanically she got to her feet, cleaning her skin and hair on automatic pilot while her mind continued to spin. The shower was only turned off after she was sure she was in better control of herself. Wrapping a towel around herself, she stepped out noting her phone indicated she had a new message.

Flipping it open, she had to read the message twice before it sank in. She had earned another two grand toward the debt her father owed and he was refusing to allow her to come home. She composed another message, pleading with him. Horus was a good man; he didn't deserve to be toyed with. Ransom didn't include her own feelings, pleading on behalf of the Master instead. If she mentioned any of her own feelings, Tam would see it as merely whining and shut down to her pleas completely.

Drying her skin and hair on two large towels provided by Amtrak, she waited for a response praying to the Goddess of the Moon for salvation. Her hopes were dashed at the response she received from her father.

[Stay with him or he will find out the truth about you.]

She had been too fervent in her plea. Knowing her as well as he did, her father had obviously figured out that she was starting to care for Horus. Tam must have known that she couldn't let Horus know the truth and used the only leverage she would respond to in the circumstances. She couldn't let Horus be hurt like that, and she cursed her father bitterly for his greed.

She had to stay now. She had no choice. Once her mission was over and she was released from her responsibility, she would simply end the affair and move out of his life quietly without him ever knowing she had been deceiving him from the start. He must never know she was here simply as a dupe. If he were to learn the truth about her, it would destroy him.

Though he was a Master and a pillar of strength, he was obviously vulnerable in affairs of the heart. She had not only been aware of that going into this, but much to her dismay Hector had shown her how to capitalize on it. Now she had no choice but to hurt him, one way or another. If she could control the circumstances and reasoning of her leaving, maybe it would be possible to minimize the damage. She realized now there was no way to eliminate it.

For the first time in her life, Ransom actually hated her father. He had always been weak around alcohol, but with his Lycan constitution that hadn't been too much an issue at first. The alcohol, though, had only been the start. Eventually that wasn't enough and he turned to gambling and other human vices. Regardless of his problems, he had always treated her with the utmost love and care. This was the first time he had ever treated her with complete disregard asking her to do the things that he was asking of her now. She knew he must be desperate, and that it had to be hurting him to demand this of her, but she didn't care. Right now she hated Tam with all her heart, and wished for nothing more than to be able to rush to Horus’ side and confess everything, but that foolish thought fled as quickly as it had come. It didn't matter how much she hated Tam right now. She knew deep in her heart that she would do all that he asked, simply because he was her father.

Slipping the phone back into her jean pocket, she scooped up the gown and took a breath for courage. With any luck, Horus was asleep and she would have more time to gather her thoughts. If not, she had been in the bathroom far too long not to arouse suspicion that something was amiss. Turning off the light, she opened the door and slipped into the cabin as silently as possible.

Horus smiled when Ransom came out of the shower, trying to be as quiet as possible.

"It's okay, Ransom. I'm still awake.” He reached out a hand to her. “I was just waiting for you. Amris called while we ... uh, we missed the phone ringing.” He almost blushed, but that would have made her think he was embarrassed by what they had done. If anything, he was elated, still basking in the afterglow.

Gently he helped her climb over him, hoping she wasn't hurt considering the intensity at the end of their lovemaking. Once she was nestled under the blanket in the crook of his arm, he dialed Amris’ number. Horus knew it was urgent, because Amris answered before the second ring was half-complete. Obviously, Amris had waited only long enough to identify the caller before picking up.

"Horus? Is everything okay? Are you and Ransom all right?” Horus was surprised at the trace of fear in Amris’ voice.

"Yeah. We're fine. We're ... better than all right.” He smiled and pulled her in even closer.

"Okay. Good. Now listen to what Kiera and I have found.” Horus angled the phone so that Ransom could hear what Amris was saying. His description of the notebook sounded like something a schoolboy would carry, but once he read some of the passages, Horus’ grip on the phone tightened.

"Someone demonstrated a shift? Who the hell would do something like that?” Horus couldn't comprehend of anyone voluntarily exposing their race to the Norms. Their secrecy was paramount, and to expose it like that ... then he understood.

"Leo was never going to be paid.” Horus realized. “They used him, likely to drop your name Amris, and then they planned on getting rid of him. No Lycan would leave a secret like that out there. Not with someone like Leo."

"I agree, Horus, and so does Kiera. Leo was a dead man when he pulled the trigger. He just didn't know it. But there's more. This fellow Marco. He's the one who introduced Leo to ... Amris. But we don't even have a last name. Can Ransom..."

"Wait!” Ransom yelled out. She was already wriggling over top of Horus and reaching for the notebook in her bag. “I'm already on it, Master Amris. I remember ... something ... earlier today...” Wiggling, Ransom tried to work her notebook out of her purse, trying not to show the surprise at having been given such an important task. That Master Amris had thought to ask her gave her a warm flush.

Amris chuckled over the phone. “Ransom, if you're going to keep calling Horus and me Master all the time, someone will notice. Please ... no titles on this mission, okay?"

"Okay ... Amris. Hang on a sec.” She wriggled back up over top of Horus’ body, finally coming to rest on the big man's chest, her notes open in front of her. She found the section with all the addresses she had copied, but waited for a break in Amris’ briefing. She bit her lip thoughtfully, which also managed to hide her expression. No titles. It was almost as if they were friends; almost as if she deserved to be considered a part of the team. Only she knew different. She didn't deserve it but that didn't mean she couldn't make herself useful.

"It gets worse.” Then he told them about the modified handgun and the bullet he had found.

"By the Moon...” Horus’ grip on the phone threatened to shatter the small device, and it was only Ransom's touch on his arm that steadied him. “You need to tell the other Pack Masters; Ryka ... Khefris needs to know ... and Ra..."

"Already done, my friend. Ra and Khef are both battening everything down. If there's a war coming, we need to be ready. You and Ransom need to be as careful as possible until Kiera and I join you."

"You're coming to Detroit?"

"Got no choice. This trail starts up there, and there are too many problems to work out in Motown.” Amris didn't put his thoughts into words but Horus already knew them. Leo had implied there were more bullets, and they had to have come from somewhere. It only made sense that these bullets were being made in Detroit. If that were true then that operation needed to be neutralized. Horus and Ransom wouldn't be able to do it alone.

"Okay.” Horus nodded. “You're full of bad news, Amris. Do you have anything good?"

"Sorry, Horus. But no. Until we figure out who Marco is..."

"Marco Jarvis.” Ransom interrupted before she even realized who she was interrupting. “I even have an address for him here. I ran a trace on the Jarvis name, and Marco came up in the Detroit area almost right away. Got a phone number, too. Apparently, he and his brother ran some kind of detective agency in the city. I got a few M. Jarvis’ when I did the address search, but Marco Jarvis came up with two addresses. One was a residence, and the other for the agency.” She frowned. “No picture, though."

Amris laughed. “You got an address, Ransom. By the Moon, you even found a brother! That's a lot more than we had five minutes ago. Good job!” Though Amris and Kiera could not see them, Ransom cringed away from the praise. If they only knew. Wrapping her arm around Horus’ waist, she nestled into his chest to hide her initial reaction. She fell silent letting the Masters continue their discussion uninterrupted.

Horus took over. “Okay. Ransom and I are due in Detroit at three in the morning. I have reservations at a hotel owned by a friend of a friend. As soon as we check in and have a room number I'll let you know. Ransom and I will go ahead and check out Marco Jarvis’ address. And don't worry, Amris, we'll be careful."

"Like walking on silver needles, my friend. Think silver needles."

"Understood, Amris. Tell Kiera I wish she were having a better honeymoon. But give her our love anyway."

Kiera's voice came on the line, and they could almost see the smile on her face through the tone she used. “Thanks, Horus ... and Ransom? Thank you."

With nothing more to be said, the Pack Masters wished each other luck, then hung up.

Ransom wriggled over Horus once more, shoving her precious notebook back into her purse. “We should get a nap while we can,” she said after a moment of silence.

Horus simply grunted and gave her a small smile, his eyes still closed. Sleep was the only solace available to her, though his arms around her would have been heaven if she did not have this dark cloud hanging over her.

She closed her eyes, forcing her breathing to remain even until she was sure Horus was asleep. Lying quietly, she watched him sleep as her mind replayed the events that had led her to where she was now, sure there was something she could have done to keep it from progressing this far. With a soft sigh she shifted, meaning to roll onto her back and stare at the ceiling. In his sleep, Horus’ arms tightened around her, preventing her from leaving the sanctuary of his body.

Retrospect would do her no good. She had to come up with a plan. Something that would convince him he was not in love with her without breaking both their hearts. After chasing her thoughts in circles, she gave up on that idea as impossible. There was no painless way out for her now. There were only two options. She could continue to lie to him, each deception costing a small piece of her soul. Or she could tell him the complete truth, which would only hurt him and still leave her devastated. There was no painless way out for her.

Choosing the lesser of two evils, she began to plan ways in which to push him away.

Oblivious to Ransom's intentions, Horus spent the night with his arms wrapped around his woman. He wanted to make her feel safe and secure, even when she was sleeping. He wanted her to be comfortable with him, knowing he would be there for her. It was just the way he was.

They reached Detroit only a few minutes ahead of schedule so it was well after four in the morning before they found a taxi and arrived at their hotel to check in. To his delight, they had been granted a multi-room suite at a discounted price. It was perfect for their needs, with two separate bedrooms divided by a large living area. As soon as they had a room number Horus text messaged the information to Amris and to report that they had arrangements available for he and Kiera with them. There was no telling how long they were going to be in Detroit together, but Horus reasoned they needed to operate from the same central location for both communication and security reasons.

Certainly it helped that the hotel was owned and staffed by Lycans. There would be little need for them to make excuses or hide as much as they might have in a human establishment. They had enough to worry about without adding hiding their differences from the Norms to that list.

After sending the message, Horus called the number that Ransom had found for Marco Jarvis, but got an answering machine. The voice on the recording was gruff and direct, and the message itself wasn't very long or even friendly. Horus called the number twice more, using the hotel phone and Ransom's, just so that he could try and memorize the voice, without letting Marco know who was calling him. They had no face to work with, and he had never seen Leo, so the name and voice were all they had to identify Marco. Once he was certain he had the voice down cold, he smiled at Ransom.

"You know, I think I'm going to grab a shower and then catch a few winks.” He grinned. “You might want to do the same. I can have the front desk wake us at noon, then we can see if Marco is back home or not."

Ransom nodded absent-mindedly. “Okay.” She knew she still had to report her progress to her father, and she could use the time Horus was in the shower to do just that.

Horus raised an eyebrow at her lack of energy, but chalked it up to the same fatigue he was feeling. He really did need to take a break, because he wanted to be in his best form when he met Marco Jarvis. Leaving Ransom alone in the other room, Horus stepped into the shower.

Ransom heard the door close behind her quietly and moved to stare out at the parking lot. Depression was settling over her like a heavy cloak and she simply didn't have the energy to fight it any more. She had peeked at the message left on her phone the night before, only to learn that her attempt to end the deception with Horus had only cost her. Whoever Tam owed had tacked on an additional five hundred to the balance. Her attempt to flee had only added to her father's bill.

As she stared at the stars through the hotel window, Ransom's mind wandered back to a happier time. Before her mother died, they were a family, completely devoted to each other. Ransom knew what it was to grow up in the love and security of her parent's perfect bonding. No two had ever been made for each other like Tam and Nina. She knew when one entered a room just by watching the reaction of the other. They were perfect and happy and Ransom had been privy to a beautiful childhood.

Nina's death had been a terrible blow to Ransom and Tam both. They clung to each other, Ransom remembering the sharp fear she had felt when she thought her father was going to choose to follow her mother into oblivion. It was more common than not for Bonded pairs to simply fade away when one mate passed on. Bonds between couples were strong, powerful things. Couples became tuned to their partners emotions and physical being almost as if they were joined as one, so when a Bonded partner died, the survivor was left with an empty piece of themselves. For a Lycan the passage of a Bonding was a sorrowful event, and it took a strong wolf to survive the loss of a Bond Mate.

In Tam's case, he had dedicated himself to providing everything he could for Ransom. Ransom became his reason for living and she held those memories dear now. The changes within him had been slow and she had always been unable to put her finger on the catalyst. But he had changed as she had grown and as his need to protect her had lessened, he had begun to sink further and further into himself. Now it seemed their roles had reversed, as she was the one acting to protect her father. She rubbed her hand over her face and sighed. Following that trail of thought through the past only made her sadder.

She needed to move, to actually do something. Dutifully she sent off a text to report their arrival in Detroit. She was surprised to see her father answer right away, but when he asked if they had arrived safely she had to smile. Maybe it wasn't as bad as she thought, if he could still worry about her. She let him know she was fine, and, to make him relax further, told him the name of the hotel she was at in case he needed to find her in a hurry. After giving him her love, she signed off.

Horus was still in the shower so she grabbed the room key off the table along with the ice bucket. Though they didn't particularly need ice at the moment, she needed to feel like she was doing something productive. She was about to step out the door when she thought to leave Horus a small note. After all, he would worry if she were suddenly missing, considering everything else going on. Grabbing a pen and notepad from the top of the bureau she jotted a quick message letting him know where she was going. Placing it in the middle of the bed, where he would be sure to find it, Ransom slipped out the door to find a vending machine and some ice.

Horus stepped back into the main room with a towel wrapped around his waist. He hadn't heard Ransom moving around and wondered if she had just gone to sleep ahead of him. That she wasn't in the room at all made him nervous. There was no way anyone could have followed them here and done anything. She had to have just stepped out, but why didn't she tell him she was going anywhere? And where would she go?

Had she decided that it was too much? Visions of Janise's departure came rushing back to him and he wondered if Ransom had done the same thing. It wouldn't be hard to imagine and it would make sense. The train had been fun, but he'd blown it when he admitted he was falling for her. She hadn't been the same since that moment.

That was a stupid, selfish thing to say, and she had left because of it. His good mood evaporated at once, when he realized that he had likely done it again. Instead of having her at his side, now he was alone once more, and the thought of her departure tore at him like nothing else.

Then his eyes fell on her luggage. Her bag was still there? He moved to the suitcase and lifted it. It was still full. She hadn't gone anywhere. She was still here! But where? Had they been found so soon? A piece of paper blended in with the crème bed cover and he did not see it until he had worked himself into a panic, going so far as to get his own clothes out of his suitcase to search for her. Relief swept through him like a flood as the words jumped out at him and he sat down heavily on the bed, cursing himself for his needless panic. It was going to be all right. Ransom wasn't going anywhere and they hadn't been detected yet. He fell back on the bed and closed his eyes smiling. It didn't matter what she was doing now, because he knew she hadn't left him. And that was all he cared to know.

The shapes were as indistinct as shadow. It took him some time to recognize them at first, but eventually he realized who they were. Janise, in all her loveliness, was sitting down with her ankles crossed wearing the same blue dress that she had worn on the day she had walked out on him, without a backward glance. She was smiling at him as if she were actually happy to see him. Ransom was sitting next to her, and though Horus knew at once who she was, her appearance was startlingly different. Her blonde hair was gone, replaced by the most lustrous red hair he had ever seen. It framed her face like a halo and made her green eyes sparkle like emeralds. He couldn't understand why her hair should be so different, but somehow it felt so ... right.

Next to Ransom, Janise looked like tarnished silver.

"You know she's wrong for you, Horus.” Janise said. “She's a lie. Everything about her is a lie. Look at her now. She hasn't even been honest enough to let you really see her. She's still trying to replace me. No one can replace me. I'm the one you want. I'm real."

Ransom shook her head. “No. I'm not a lie.” Her eyes sparkled. “I know you love me. And I know I'm falling for you."

Janise laughed. “You tramp! He doesn't love you. He'll never love you. I'm the one he wants. I'm the one he's always wanted.” Janise laughed again. “How could he love someone that's not real?"

Ransom lowered her head in shame. Was she already giving up? Horus couldn't believe that. But why didn't she fight back?

Janise got up from her chair and cleaned up the sleeper car. “Sure, she's fun and all, but really Horus. Remember me?” Suddenly the blue dress was gone, and Horus could remember intimately every special touch and caress Janise has given him. Her body's curves were displayed before him just as they had been before, and the pain in his heart did little to dispel the vision of beauty she paraded before him now or his natural reaction to the sight of her.

Then Ransom's head raised and Horus saw the sparkle had been replaced with a fire. “You call me a tramp! You lied to him, you told him you loved him, and you lied! When I tell him I love him, I will mean it. You are nothing, Janise! You lied, you cheated and you hurt him! You don't deserve him!"

Janise was suddenly in front of him now, kissing him and holding him. Then Ransom was there and she was kissing him as well, trying to pull him away from Janise, but she wasn't strong enough.

"Help me, Horus!” Ransom had tears in her eyes as she pulled at his arm.

"You want to be with me, Horus.” Janise's plea was fervent and demanding and to Horus’ ear it sounded more like an order than a call to a lover. “That bitch can never replace me."

"Horus!” He felt himself slipping from Ransom's grasp and he felt Janise's hands on his body. They were stroking him, gliding over his skin, teasing and touching. He didn't want Janise. He knew that now. He needed Ransom. Janise would consume him and he needed to break free of her, but he lacked the strength.

"Ransom!” His call was loud and needy, but Ransom was drifting away. He called out to her again, and again, but it seemed she had given up. Ransom's battle with Janise was lost and Horus watched in dismay as she faded once more into that indistinct shadow.

Janise's hands were still on his flesh. Her lips danced over his skin. She touched him and kissed him and stroked him. He watched in dismay as his body responded to her touch, and when Janise looked into his eyes, it was with the hungry look of a predator on the hunt. Then she took him into her mouth and as much as he dreaded what was happening, he couldn't deny the intense pleasure that overtook him as she consumed him.

Ransom returned from her excursion with the ice bucket in hand only to find Horus passed out on the bed. She realized he must have been more tired than he had thought and she settled onto the bed next to him hoping to force the confusion and depression from her thoughts. She had no idea what she was going to do, or how she could possibly leave him, but she knew she had to. There was nothing she could say or do that would make leaving him any easier. Her bag was still packed at the side of the bed, all she had to do was pick it up and leave.

As she sat thinking, she noticed that whatever Horus was dreaming about was getting a reaction out of him. The towel had already been forced aside and his interest in his dream was blatantly obvious. As she watched him further, she suddenly realized that this was actually the first time she had a chance to look at his manhood. Now she knew why she had been sore the last few days. If not for her Lycan healing, she doubted she would still be walking! She almost giggled at the lusty thought, but covered her mouth so as not to disturb him.

Then it came to her. She knew what she could give him to make herself feel better about leaving him. Just as she had punished herself on the train, she knew this was a task that would take even more effort. He deserved it before she left him for good.

Her mind made up, she eased herself down the bed and gently wrapped her hand around his shaft before giving it a soft, gentle kiss and lowering her mouth over him.

Horus was in heaven ... and he hated it. Janise was doing things to him that she had never done before and through the haze of his sleeping state he felt the most incredible satisfaction and enjoyment as she literally consumed him. But he knew it was wrong. It shouldn't be her. He didn't want her. He wanted Ransom.

Janise continued to work her magic on him. Draining him and making him hers alone.

His eyes flashed open suddenly and he tried to remember where he was. He was in the hotel, and Ransom was with him, but when he looked down the length of his body he only saw Janise's blonde hair draped over his belly. He felt her mouth on him and he gasped in shock.

"Janise! What—?"

Ransom jerked away from him as if she had been slapped, stumbling to the floor at his feet. Her eyes bright as they welled with tears, she could only stare at him stunned, her body shaking for a shattered moment. Janise? He had been dreaming of Janise? By the Moon, and she had been...

"I ... I'm sorry ... to interrupt your private moment,” she spat bitterly even as the tears were already spilling from her eyes. She rolled to her feet and ducked into the open bathroom door next to her, slamming it shut behind her. Her fingers found the lock and she slid to the floor, her back pressed tight against the door. The air was still heavy with steam from his shower, and she could smell him in the room, making her even more miserable.

Several things hit her at once. She was surprised at how much she hurt. Her heart was shattered, jagged pieces cutting directly into her soul. That she was crying about what Horus had said was a small measure of how much she cared about him. Much more than she had thought she did. More than she ever wanted to. She cursed herself and her stupidity for letting herself fall for a man in love with a ghost.

She had known all along about Janise. Hector had told her all about her. By the Stars, it was the reason Hector had made her dye her hair, and been so picky about her wardrobe, and ... The tears bloomed in a torrent, running unchecked down her face and she gasped and fought to hold back a sob of pain. She couldn't blame him. Her disguise had obviously worked to perfection. She had made him think of his lost lover and capitalized on the resemblance. It had worked to her advantage so effectively, and now was working against her. She had become the ghost that she had set out to become ... and it was killing her.

Horus was still struggling to recover from what had been happening when Ransom bolted for the bathroom door. Ransom? It had been Ransom who ... and he had been dreaming about Janise and ... he had called her Janise! Oh, by the Moon and Stars he was such a fucking idiot!

"Ransom!” He rolled out of the bed and stumbled to the door. He wanted to pound the door down and tear it off its hinges but he had already said and done too much that was wrong. One name. One word. Everything that he had ever hoped for, and wanted, was going to fall apart at his careless utterance of two syllables.

"Ransom! Please ... I'm so sorry ... I ... it was a dream!” His forehead touched the wooden door as he looked down at his feet. “I'm so sorry.” He could hear her crying, and her breath hitched on a little sob when she coughed. Horus’ heart was breaking apart at each tremor and whimper that filtered its’ way to his ears through the door. “Ransom ... I..."

He couldn't keep apologizing. That meant nothing. He had to explain. He had to—no, he needed her to understand. He turned away from the door and slid down the wood until he was seated with his back to the door. He knew she was on the opposite side, because he could hear her crying still. She was inches away, but they were miles apart.

"You ... you're not Janise. I'm a fool and an idiot. Janise was someone else ... is someone else.” He took a deep breath and then ripped the scab off a wound that apparently had never truly healed.

"Five years ago, Janise came to my Pack. She was beautiful. She had such blonde hair, and her eyes were so blue. And I thought I was smitten then. She seemed to know everything I liked. Everything I wanted to do. We were together for over a year, Ransom."

"A year ... it was a year before I found out the truth. About a week before I was to be elevated to Master, I learned she'd been playing me. Somehow, she had heard of my planned ascension, and had decided the idea of being a Pack Mistress was pretty appealing. Unfortunately, Duke Cyrus, the West Coast Duke, was also seeking a mate, someone to assume the role of Duchess for the packs out west. And guess who decided being a Duchess sounded a whole lot better than being a Pack Mistress?"

"She left me Ransom, as if I was nothing. The year we were together ... she called it practice. She left me, Ransom, and Cyrus got his Duchess.” Horus sighed. “It was more than just the pain of her leaving, though, that hurt. I felt like I couldn't trust anything anymore. I ... my senses, which are supposed to be so keen, and so sharp ... failed me."

"Amris’ Ceremony was ... it made me remember why she left me. And she was in my thoughts. When you showed up there, you looked just like her and I couldn't get my mind off her, or you, all day. When I invited you into the guest house that night, all I saw was a reflection of Janise. And I hope you'll forgive me, but I used you that night, and I hate myself for that. I ... I'll understand if you hate me, too."

"I'm sorry, Ransom, but I thought you were like her.” He took a breath. “You looked like her, you moved like her."

Horus’ voice grew stronger now. He needed Ransom to understand how he was feeling. “But you didn't leave me like she did. You...” He paused and ran his hand through his hair. “Ransom, I didn't know what I was feeling. I was confused and scared. I wanted you so much to be Janise, I invited you to be here with me, because I wanted you to be her. But you proved right away you weren't. You had a chance to run ... hell, you've had a lot of chances to run. And you didn't."

"Janise would have run at the first hint of danger or mention of silver bullets. She didn't care about me like you do ... seem to. And now that I think of it, she never really made me as happy as you do. With her ... it was an act. A sham of her true emotions. But ... I feel like I know you. Ransom, I know with the instincts that I should have used years ago, I know you love me, you don't have to say it. This is what I'm feeling, Ransom. My senses are telling me that it's time to get over her. My gut is telling me that it's you. Janise was...” He tried to laugh, “Janise was me, practicing for you."

Horus knew it sounded like he was begging, and Pack Masters never begged for anything. But he was on one side of this door and Ransom was on the other, and if he needed to beg to get that door open, by the Moon, he would beg.

"I was dreaming, Ransom. And you were in the dream, and Janise was in the dream. And...” He closed his eyes. “I don't want Janise in my dreams anymore, Ransom. I only want to dream about you."

Ransom's sobs had subsided as she listened to what Horus was saying. There was a moment of silence between them, then she lay her hand on her side of the door. “It's not you ... it's me.” Her voice was soft and hoarse, but Horus was a Pack Master and she knew he could hear her. She took a slow, steadying breath and got to her feet. It took another minute or more for her to build her courage enough to open the door.

Horus felt the door give behind him and scrambled to his feet, turning to face her. Immediately he reached for her to gather her into his arms and hold her close. She raised her hand, palm out, to stop him. Unsure, he took a half step back.

She wasn't able to look at him, only capable of studying the floor instead. “I knew about Janise before I met you officially. I was hoping you would be at Amris and Kiera's Bonding and took a chance. I ... went there to meet you and hoped you would notice me. I...” Ransom swallowed her pride and just blurted out. “Oh hell, Horus. I'm not beautiful or captivating. I'm nothing like the kind of girl you would give a second look to. If I hadn't resembled her so much, you wouldn't have given me the time of day. I knew that and capitalized on it. I wanted to meet you so badly. Maybe get you to like me, looks aside. And it worked ... too well. It wasn't your fault. I did it and I'll live with it. I always knew you loved her and anything you felt for me would be pale by comparison. I've been intentionally portraying the living embodiment of the ghost you've carried with you day in and day out for years. I ... I'll understand if you hate me.” She stepped back into the bathroom and started to close the door again. “Now, you're going to get a nap and I'm going to take a bath. The front desk will call at noon and we'll face the rest of the day then. And ... I don't ever want to talk about this morning again."

His hand came up to stop the door knowing she would never be able to match his strength. He was going to ask her why. Why him? He was nothing special either. But she looked up at him with her red, teary eyes and he just lowered his hand. It had been another big lie. She looked down and away, and as the door closed and clicked shut, Horus felt himself falling apart.

It had been another lie. She hadn't even been herself from the outset. She had been Janise. She even admitted it. She had gone out of her way to lie to him.

He walked back to the bed with heavy steps. He could not believe it. He had been deceived again. And for what? Why was it so important that she get him to like her?

He fell backward onto the bed and stared at the ceiling. Because he was an unBonded Pack Master, that's why. What other reason did she need? He closed his eyes and tried to shut out the world. He heard the water filling the tub and his mind filled with an image of her naked body slipping into the water. “Why, Ransom? Why?” His voice was a whisper that even he barely heard.

He needed to think and stay sharp. He was going into a deadly situation and he needed to think about that. Those silver bullets were real. Adric had already been killed with one, and even Amris had admitted he had no idea how many more were out on the street in Detroit. He needed to remain focused on the mission at hand, and that was finding Marco and the bullets.

No matter how hard he tried to focus on Pack business, the only thing filling his thoughts was that he had been an idiot and a fool. How could he have been so wrong? He felt her in his blood. He knew what she felt around him. He had basked in her heat when they were together. He had reveled in her touch, and knew that it wasn't false. She did love him and she wasn't faking that, even if she could never admit it to him. That alone made her different from Janise because Janise had been screaming her false love for him from the day they had met. To his shame, he had believed that, too. What made Ransom so right? Why was he suddenly so sure that Ransom loved him back? Those same senses that he was relying on now had already lied to him in the past. How could he be so sure now of what they were telling him?

Horus was afraid. He was afraid of what he was feeling, because he realized in his gut that her confession didn't matter. So what if she admitted she had deceived him to get his attention? So what if she admitted she had sought him out deliberately? Was it her fault that he had behaved as he had? No. That was all on him. He had been so obvious about his near obsession with Janise, that even those outside his own Pack had noticed. Had he really ever looked at a woman that didn't resemble Janise in some way? It was a bitter pill to realize just how transparent he had been in matters of the heart. Even so, he couldn't deny that he still loved Ransom. It was just that simple, and just that complicated.

He slid off the bed and moved to the bathroom door, knocking on it gently. “Ransom...” He opened the door a crack so she could hear him better. “It doesn't matter to me, Ransom, what you did. I'm upset at myself that you had to do that just to get my attention. I meant what I said, before. You're not Janise. You might look like her ... a little,” he forced a laugh, “okay, a lot. But you're not her. And, well, you need to know that I don't care what you did. I love you.” He took a deep breath and continued. “Don't sell yourself short, please. You are beautiful and charming and you made me smile from the moment our eyes met. I don't care what you look like."

He put his hand on the doorknob and said, “Finish your bath, Ransom. Then we need to get to work again.” He pulled the door shut and then fell back against it looking up at the ceiling. Could this day get any worse?

Ransom wasn't actually interested in getting clean, she just wanted to be warm. The ice block that had settled in her soul and sent shards of pain through her blood needed to loosen, maybe even thaw a little. Stripping off her clothes, she huddled in the warm water, shivers running down her spine periodically. What had she just done? She had just admitted her deceit to the man she was supposed to deceive. And what had he done? Ignored it. Accepted it. Certainly, she knew she could never tell him everything. Yet with this small confession, it was like a terrible weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

Horus’ reaction to her lies had been a surprise. She expected and could understand anger, or hurt. He should have thrown her out, any other sire would have. Horus’ simple acceptance and forgiveness, gave her a shock. The stunned relief that ran through her made her sag in the water, her breathing easing. She soaked, simply thinking about the man in the other room for a long time until the night's trials had her nearly falling asleep in the tub. She quickly crawled out and started drying herself off. Then she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror.

The blonde hair framing her face disgusted her now. It had been enough to be a part of her ploy ... part of the game. Enough. She was done pretending to be Janise, it was time to find Ransom again. The first stage of her recovery had been the disposal of the colored contacts, which he hadn't seemed to notice. Step two would be regaining her natural hair color. Maybe then, when Horus looked at her, he wouldn't think of Janise. Somehow, she would find a way to take care of it today. She didn't want to spend another night with him, pretending. She hadn't even realized yet that she was already planning on staying.

Quietly, she padded out of the bathroom, wrapped in only a towel, exhaustion wearing on her. Without a sound, she lay down on the bed and pulled the blanket up to her chin. She met his eyes for the first time since he had woken up. “Hold me? Please? Just for a little while...” She was so tired, having sat up the night before while he slept on the train. It was catching up to her now and she just needed the warmth and security his arms offered. She was afraid he would deny her, choosing to keep his distance, not that she could blame him. Fear of rejection was almost as strong as she feared he would accept and she would fall for him even more. She just didn't have the strength to deny her own need, and inwardly cursed her weakness.

Horus didn't wait to be asked a second time. He slipped into the bed and moved up behind her, pulling her body close to him. He wrapped his arms around her and nestled his head against hers. “I'll always be here.” He felt her sigh and listened to her steady breathing as she drifted off almost instantly to sleep, and within minutes, Horus joined her. This time Janise didn't intrude on either of them.

Horus parked their rented car at the mall and got out to meet Ransom as she exited the vehicle on her side. He was wearing sneakers and jeans and an ordinary black t-shirt that stretched across his chest. He looked like a walking advertisement for Gold's Gym, the lumberjack's association, and the stevedore's union in one compact package. His blond hair was combed back and neat.

As he took Ransom's hand to help her from the car, he enjoyed watching her stand. She wore a pair of short three-inch heels and a tight pair of jeans that fit her like a second skin. The white halter-top that showed off her bare midriff with a light blue short sleeve shirt, which was tied off above her belly. Her makeup was understated, and her lips were a soft shade of pink. Her hair was combed out and neat, but pulled back in a simple ponytail. She slipped a pair of sunglasses on to complete the picture of a woman comfortable in her own skin and as she stood beside him, Horus had to remind himself to breathe.

They entered the mall, and Horus opened the doors for her, always at her side. His hand lay gently at the small of her back, the simple act of possession being sufficient to keep any would-be admirers at an even greater distance.

Ransom and Horus had decided that if they were going to approach Marco tonight, their best method would be to run a bluff. If Marco thought they came from Amris, he might be more willing to talk about what was going on and what he knew. Part of that bluff meant looking like he worked for a man enough money to hire a killer; and sanction the development of the silver bullets.

Using the hotel room phone book, Horus had found a men's shop that advertised same day tailoring and had come down to get himself a suit. Ransom had told him there was something she needed to do on her own while he was getting fitted, and Horus hadn't pushed. Since the disastrous morning, he felt like he was walking on eggshells with her, and he just didn't want to do anything else that might jeopardize their tenuous peace.

Horus had no clue, but Ransom had no plans for leaving him at all. She was here to make sure that before they left the mall, Horus would be leaving with Ransom at his side; not Janise. She saw the salon wasn't busy when they walked past it to get to the haberdashery so she hoped to be done with her own business before Horus. When they reached the storefront, she leaned up and gave Horus a soft peck on the cheek. He had been trying so hard to give her some space, and she did appreciate it. She needed to pull back, just a little to preserve what small dignity she had left until she knew for certain that it was her that he cared for, and not his little ghost girl.

"Get your suit. Take your time. I'll be back there.” She pointed back the direction they had come from. “Come and get me when you're done.” Horus simply nodded and let her go. He watched the gentle movement of her hips as she walked away, and the soft bounce of her ponytail. Again, he had to remind himself to breathe.

"You one lucky man, brother.” The clerk had come to stand beside him and was watching Ransom walk away with him. “I know she ain't your sister!” The clerk grinned and put out his fist for Horus to tap, giving the big man his due for his choice of woman.

Horus laughed and tapped the clerk's extended hand with his own huge fist. “No. Definitely not my sister."

The clerk stepped back and looked Horus up and down. “You the dude who called about getting a suit by tonight?"

Horus nodded his head. “Yeah. That's me. I've got a special night planned."

The clerk looked back at Ransom's receding figure and nodded. “Well, I can see why none of the other places could deal wit’ you on short notice. You a big man.” Then he nodded his head again. “But we do have some stuff I can get ready quick. Let's take a look."

The clerk headed to the back of the shop leaving Horus with no choice but to stop watching Ransom walk into the distance and turn around to follow him to the rear of the store.

Ransom entered the salon, the scent of harsh chemicals and perfume heavy in her nose. Fortunately, the color specialist was available and she was able to tell the girl exactly what she wanted. Together they were able to find something very close to her natural hair color.

While the chemicals processed, she thought back on the first hours of the morning and what they meant. She could admit to herself she was falling for Horus in a big way, even though it just meant their eventual separation would be all the more difficult. She had to also admit that she was selfish enough to want to spend as much of the time she had left in his company, as herself. It would be enough to know that Horus had thought her worthwhile and interesting, if only for a while. She had plenty of time to think as she sat there, staring at a magazine without actually reading it. Plenty of time to come to terms with herself and find a certain peace with her situation.

Her eyes darted to the clock while the technician washed the coloring out and she wondered what Horus was doing or if he was done yet and wandering the mall looking for her. With a bitter twist in her stomach, she wondered if he would even recognize her. The difference, she knew, would be startling.

During the blow dry and styling process, she idly thought about just leaving again. Taking off without anyone the wiser. Not Horus, not her dad. No one. Just vanishing. The idea floated away like a bubble on the wind. It was pretty and fanciful, but hardly realistic. Ransom could not abandon either her father or Horus right now. Her father needed her, and Horus wanted her. At least she hoped he still would once he came face to face with the real Ransom, or as close to real as she could give him.

An hour and a half after she had arrived, Ransom was standing at the counter paying for her old-new look, thinking about lunch. Dinner the night before had been a long time ago and she hadn't even really finished that. The memory of that train ride made her smile, but the smile was short-lived when the cashier tapped her on the arm. “Your card has been declined,” she said, her lip curling with disapproval.

"What? No. That's not possible...” Ransom could feel the blood draining from her face as she dug for her wallet. She might have enough cash to cover the bill but she doubted it. Her card had never been declined before and she knew there was enough money in her account for the expense. She was starting to panic, unsure of just how to handle the new crisis, when she felt a hand touch her back.

Horus had only taken an hour with DeWayne in the men's shop. He had been assured that his suit would be ready in approximately two hours and if he came back then, everything would be ready for him. He paid in advance for the tailoring and the extra effort, even leaving DeWayne a decent tip. The man had certainly known his stuff and when they finished on the selection even Horus, a fashion blind ape, knew he would look good.

Horus thanked him then ambled through the mall looking for Ransom. It was a huge place, and after a while, Horus gave up his fruitless visual search. He wandered back to the haberdasher and within seconds had Ransom's scent. He was a good enough tracker that the extra scents and smells of the mall were just background information. He had a lock on her now, and he would be able to find her anywhere.

It came as a bit of a surprise to find that her trail had led to a small salon near the entrance they had come in. It was an even bigger surprise when her scent led him to a gorgeous redhead at the front counter. At first he hadn't been certain it was her, but the shoes and jeans were right, and the top was the same blue shirt she'd had on when they left this morning. It was definitely Ransom.

As he walked up to the counter, he thought he picked up a sense of frustration coming off her. Her vibe was all wrong. Surely she wasn't upset with the job they did! By the Moon, she was fantastic!

He slid up behind her as she fumbled for her purse and put his hand on the small of her back. “Hey, beautiful."

She jumped at his touch, and he cursed himself for startling her like that, but then she looked up at who was touching her and he stopped breathing again. Her eyes were a scintillating green, brilliant in color. She had changed her hair color to a vibrant, powerful red that framed her face perfectly, nearly matching the vision he had of her in his dream. He had never even noticed the small, dabbled freckles on the bridge of her nose before, but with her new hair color, that personal touch just leapt out at him.

"Wow, Ransom, you're looking really ... damn.” Okay, he admitted, that sounded really lame. He had to force himself to stop staring and closed his hand on hers over her purse. If he was going to sound like an idiot, he could at least make up for it by paying for the service. “My treat."

Ransom felt the heat rising in her face, her cheeks blooming in a blush of embarrassment. “Thank you.” She managed to mutter. The look on his face was enough to tell her everything she had wanted to know. He didn't find her uninteresting or plain. He still wanted her and heaven help her, he still loved her. His eyes alone spoke volumes and she heard it all clearly.

After paying for her hairdo, Horus angled them out of the shop. Two people had to move out of his way or be run down, but he didn't even notice them. If she had wanted him to forget Janise, she had succeeded. “You know, that hair ... it looks...” Horus almost said familiar, but suspected that would not have been the smartest thing to say right now. Then he laughed, and it was a good full laugh. “I can't believe, Ransom, that you could possibly have thought I wouldn't have noticed you!"

Ransom didn't have an answer for him, ducking her head as she let him guide her away. They strolled down the mall for several minutes in companionable silence. “Where is your suit?” she asked suddenly, noting his empty hands.

"Being altered. We have time before it is ready. Are you hungry?” Horus thought her blush gave her an innocent air he found appealing. He was almost sorry to see it go, but thankful she was comfortable enough with him that her embarrassment didn't linger. Though she didn't realize it, he was leading them to a small restaurant he had spotted in his wanderings.

"Famished.” She admitted as her stomach growled. She waited until they were seated and given their drink orders. It wasn't a fishing expedition, or her need to have her ego stroked, but a true need to be reassured, that made her ask, “You aren't disappointed?” She asked, touching her fingertips to her hair.

He brought his hand to hers as it stroked her hair, and he smiled. “With your hair? Absolutely not.” Then his hand came down and tenderly cupped her cheek. “With you? Never."

Their waitress had placed them in a booth, and they had naturally taken up seats opposite each other. Now though, Horus felt something in Ransom's tone that said she wanted a little bit more than just to look at him. Horus was hoping he hadn't misread the signs, and that she was looking at skipping beyond the morning's disaster. If she was still upset, she would let him know he was not welcome. If not, he was sure she would let him know that, too.

Sliding out from his seat, he moved over to sit next to her, and pulled her in closer for a gentle hug. When she smiled up at him it made him smile in return. Then he gave her a playful kiss on the tip of her nose, before their foreheads touched, and they looked into each other's eyes.

"You have the most beautiful green eyes.” He said softly, letting her know he was aware of the difference.

"Blue wasn't really my color.” She admitted softly, “I threw the contacts away on the train."

"Right before dinner. I was so dazzled by you I didn't really notice until we were ... very close.” He admitted a bit ashamed of himself.

"You didn't say anything.” She chided lightly, trying to keep her tone from sounding judgmental.

Horus chuckled and shook his head. “It didn't seem appropriate.” Then he lowered his voice. “Oh yes, Ransom, touch me there. God you feel so good. Oh wow, you have green eyes. I don't think you would have appreciated the distraction."

She looked down at the table, a small smile curving at the corner of her mouth. “Probably not.” Looking back up at him, their eyes locked again. She could lose herself in the quiet strength she found there.

The moment seemed to stretch forever as they sat; touching and intimate. They were seeing each other differently now. For Horus, Ransom had become much more than a one-night stand or even a replacement for Janise. That deception was gone, and the woman in front of him was now someone unique. And she was his. The transformation from who she had pretended to be, to who she truly was, was complete, and Horus was surprised that he felt an enormous relief. Now he knew, really knew deep inside where it counted, he really did love Ransom for who she was.

Janise's ghost had been banished by a soft smile, and a gentle touch.

Ransom snuggled close in Horus’ arms, reluctant to move even after their meals had been delivered. With infinite care, she lifted the fork to his mouth so he would not have to let go of her to feed himself. There was little conversation between them, simply enjoying each other's company while they ate.

For Ransom, it was the calm in the eye of the storm. She had not forgotten the way the morning had started and was cautious of saying anything that might start an argument. She was still raw and hurting, unwilling to let her emotions rule her mouth, so she choose to remain silent. Their lunch remained a simple, quiet affair, but in that silence, more passed between them than either suspected.

Horus’ suit was ready when they arrived to collect it. With DeWayne's help, they selected a shirt, tie and shoes that would complete the outfit. Through it all, Ransom kept her own input to a minimum, answering when asked her opinion but not offering any suggestions. Horus had a good idea of exactly what he wanted and DeWayne's sense of style provided more help than Ransom could have.

She knew her silence was grating on Horus’ nerves when he gave up trying to open conversation with her in the car on the way back to the hotel, choosing to listen to the radio instead. She couldn't help it, she was too afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing or upsetting him again. She thought she had wanted a distance between them, until she got it. Her rational mind told her it was for the best. It was better for them both in the long run. Still, it bothered her and she had no idea how to bridge the gap between them, or even if she should try. It would be kinder later for her to remain silent and force a gap to grow, but for all her intentions in that regard, she just couldn't bring herself to be that cold.

He could tell she was still upset about the morning, and he could hardly blame her for being mad at him. He suspected she'd had her hair done, just so there was no way of her being thought of now as that other woman. In that, at least, she had been successful. Now he was hoping she would just say something to him, just to let him know that all was forgiven and they could move past it.

He had thought that they had been close in the restaurant, and maybe that had helped tear down some bricks in the wall. It was a start, but there was still enough of that wall standing to get in the way.

They made their way up to the room in silence, disappointed that Amris and Kiera still hadn't arrived. Horus knew that it was going to be a long drive in the SUV from New Albany to Detroit, but he had hoped they would be in by the next morning at the latest. He hoped he didn't have to suffer through a full day of the silent treatment.

As they went over their plan in the room, Horus was glad to see Ransom was still committed to helping out, even if she did seem a little distracted. She knew her part well, though, and Horus knew he would have no problem depending on her later. “Ransom,” Horus said finally, “I know you said you wanted to forget about this morning ... but, well, I don't think you have. And if you're going to be mad at me all night, could you let me know now?"

Ransom looked up from her dinner and sighed. “I'm not mad at you, Horus. Shit. Yes, I am. But I'm mad at both of us.” She looked down at the floor. “And I just don't want to argue over it. Just ... let me work it out, okay?"

Horus nodded. “Okay.” Then he couldn't help but try and make her smile. “But you'll tell me when it's okay, right? So I don't have to keep hiding?"

She allowed a small smile to escape when she looked up and nodded in return. “I promise. You'll be the first to know.” The idea of the large Pack Master hiding from her was amusing, and before long, she was laughing at the mental picture, though it was a subdued response.

Two hours later, in the waning light of the day, Horus and Ransom were rapping on the door of Marco Jarvis’ split-level home. Horus was dressed in his new charcoal gray suit with his cream-colored shirt and golden tie. His wardrobe screamed power and in the run-down, tenement district of Detroit's downtown he looked as out of place as a fish out of water.

If Horus looked out of place, Ransom just screamed for attention. Attractive enough in the plain light of day, her cream colored mid thigh skirt, and her matching blouse and jacket announced to everyone checking her out that she was a serious professional. They were just confused as to which profession.

Horus hammered at the door with his fist and listened to it shake. Marco's neighbor opened his door quickly, about to yell at them for making noise, when he got a good look at Marco's visitors.

"Marco ain't home.” The man was skinny, smaller even than Ransom. His bare chest was sunken, and the short grey hair on his head was unkempt. He had a half-smoked cigarette hanging from his mouth, and he accentuated his statement with a hacking cough.

"You know where I can find him?” Horus asked.

The old man looked at Horus then Ransom. “You two cops?” He asked uncertainly, backing back into his apartment, the broken screen door serving as his shield.

"Do we look like fuckin’ cops?” Horus answered tightly.

The old man was quick to shake his head. For all his experience, there were only two types of people that dressed like this huge guy and came to this neighborhood: cops and thugs. And the big guy was right. They didn't look like cops at all.

"He's down at the club. You know?"

"Which club, old man?"

"Cheetah's. You know? The strip place down on eight mile."

Horus nodded. “I know it.” He turned away from the old man and Ransom immediately fell into step just behind him, as his second. Horus took only two steps before stopping and looking back at the old man. “If Marco seems to be expecting us when we get there, I wouldn't like that."

The old man just blinked then shook his head. The sudden motion seemed to be enough to shake loose more phlegm and he backed into his apartment hacking and coughing. The door slammed shut at once.

"Do you really have any idea where we're going?” Ransom asked once they were back in the car. She felt pairs of unseen eyes on them and struggled to keep her expression casual and aloof.

"Not a clue” Horus admitted once his door was closed, though his expression did not match his words either. He was the epitome of confidence and calm. He started the engine of the sleek, black Mustang they had rented and pulled away from the curb.

Ransom had the presence of mind to wait until they were out of the neighborhood before digging out her cell phone and tapping the bar name into the GPS. Within seconds she had turn-by-turn directions and was able to navigate him to their destination.

Following Ransom's instructions brought them to another rough area of town. The sign for Cheetah's was missing a few bulbs and blinking. The neon light seemed harsh, and angry, as if it was a struggle to stay lit. Only Horus’ keen sight and attention to detail kept them from passing it by completely. Ransom did not have to fake her lip curling in disgust at the dusty parking lot or what it was doing to her shoes.

The interior wasn't much better much to Ransom's dismay. It was grungy and dim and she felt her skin crawl as soon as she stepped inside. Something Ransom didn't want to try to identify made the soles of her shoes stick to the floor. The music would have been deafening, if it weren't so tinny, as if half the speakers were blown out and the other half only partially worked. Half-naked women writhed on an L-shaped stage, wrapping themselves suggestively around long silver poles.

It was a mirror image of a thousand other places that she had pulled her father out of at closing time. She hated places like this with a passion. She huddled close to Horus, not caring if she looked afraid or skittish. No woman in her right mind wouldn't be afraid in a place like this and the occupants knew it. They would detect something seriously wrong with the couple if she didn't act exactly as they suspected.

The bartender eyed them warily as they approached. “I'm looking for Marco.” Horus said, bringing a measure of relief to the bartender's eye. It wasn't him they were after. “Back booth on the left.” The bartender instructed, turning away from them to find something more interesting to give his attention.

Horus kept his hand in the small of Ransom's back, noting her unease and the small tremors that ran down her spine. Still, she didn't try to balk or run. She stayed at his side, watching his back. In a place like this, all women were prey, and Horus could sense the hungry gazes washing over his woman with every step. He pulled her closer, assuring her with his body language, he would protect her. As they neared the indicated table, Horus and Ransom spotted a small, wiry man. To Horus’ trained eye he looked incredibly fast and Horus suspected Marco's slight figure was actually all muscle. He was younger than they had thought, appearing to be in his late twenties. Short blonde hair and pale blue eyes, he might have been handsome were it not for the perpetual sneer on his lips, or the flat, dead look to his eyes.

"Are you Marco?” Horus asked.

"Yeah, who the fuck are you?” Marco answered belligerently.

"You don't need to know my name. All you need to know is that Amris sent me.” Horus answered quietly.

At Amris’ name much of Marco's veneer vanished. The sneer was replaced with a look of concern, touched with a trace of fear. His right hand had started to slide under the table until Horus looked pointedly at it and shook his head.

"I'm not here to make your life difficult. I'm just here to get some information."

Marco shook his head and looked from Horus to Ransom. “Are you—?"

Horus nodded his head. “I'm part of that group. The lady is just a friend.” According to the bits and pieces of the journal Kiera had shared, Marco knew about Lycans. Whatever that may mean in the future, he was going to do all he could to keep Ransom's identity secret.

Marco nodded. He tried not to show it, but he was disgusted with these creatures. They came from who knew where, took all the good-looking women for themselves, and did who knew what with them ... it was enough to disgust even a toughened thug like Marco.

"So what does one of Amris’ boys need to know from me?"

"We need more of the special bullets. Things are getting crazy, and we need some extra protection. Amris sent me down here to collect them."

Marco's eyes got that gleam back. “Amris knows that shit takes a while to make. He should have called."

Horus gave Marco a look hard enough to make the thug flinch. “I'm his phone call."

Marco licked his lips. “I'll have to call the facility. Get you an estimate on how long it'll take."

"Do it."

Marco slid from the booth and headed for the back of the club. He must have been a regular here, or even a part owner, because the bouncer let him into the back without a glance. The nighttime crowd had started to fill in as well. Patrons were watching the girls on the stage for the most part, but some had also noticed Ransom sitting in the back. Their eyes roamed over her with a visible hunger; like predators looking for a fresh kill.

Then they saw Horus watching them. His eyes were hard and angry, and his lips were curled back in the classic demonstration of a willingness to fight. Amongst the Packs, Horus was strong enough to be a Pack Master, an Alpha supreme. In this herd of sheep, no one dared challenge him.

Five minutes later, Marco came back. “It took some convincing but they got another box of fifty ready. Apparently, a consignment is ready for delivery tomorrow night. Maybe Amris didn't tell you that.” He turned to the back and gestured that Horus follow him. “I told Ed to bring the box here. You can get it in the back. I don't want you out here scaring the customers."

Horus nodded and stood, and Ransom rose to join him, staying close.

"The skirt can stay here. She'll be safe."

Horus just grinned. “She'll be safer with me. Let's go."

Marco shrugged and led them both into the back of the club. Horus noticed at once that the bouncer from earlier wasn't in his position. He had also wondered why Marco hadn't simply made the call from the booth using a cell phone. His senses were already primed for anything amiss, so he wasn't surprised when Marco opened the door to the back alley and guided him out.

The baseball bat crashed against his shoulders and made him spin to see who was attacking him, when another bat cracked into the back of his legs and made them buckle. For all his size and power, Horus was still vulnerable to the pressure points and vulnerabilities of the human body when he wasn't shifted. He cried out in pain as he started going down. Then a steel-capped boot slammed into his chest just as another bat came down across the small of his back. Horus grunted under the sudden, savage attack and fell to his knees.

A second flurry of baseball bat strikes, kicks and punches sent him to the ground with a cry and a grunt of pain. In seconds, he was soon buried beneath a group of at least five large men, all apparently friends of Marco's.

Marco pulled Ransom back away from the mob and held her arm tightly in his hand. “You just stay out of this, bitch. I don't know how you got hooked up with this guy, but he ain't what you think."

"I know exactly who he is.” Ransom jerked her arm out of his hand and ran into the alley. Thinking her insignificant and of little threat, the men around Horus paid her no attention. They managed to continue to ignore her until she grabbed one by the collar and slung him away from Horus. The man yelled in surprise and hit the ground hard, the breath knocked out of him.

She couldn't see Horus under the mass of bodies and a cold lump of fear clogged her throat. Screaming his name, she grabbed a second attacker, lifting him straight up before catching him in the throat with a solid punch. The man fell to his knees coughing and gagging as he struggled to bring in air. She hadn't hit him hard enough to crush his windpipe because she didn't have the strength of a male. Still, it was enough to make him pause.

A third man rounded on her, bringing the bat around to hit her in the midsection, but he made the mistake of not using his full strength behind the blow; some part of him still not comprehending this was no ordinary woman he was facing. Ransom grabbed the end of the bat and jerked it out of his hands, hurling it deeper into the alley. The man stared at her in shock, giving her the time she needed to kick at his knee with her foot. A sharp crack resounded through the alley. The man went down with a scream and Ransom lost her balance as the high heel of her shoe went sailing through the air.

"Son of a bitch.” Now Ransom was furious. Not only had they attacked Horus, but these idiotic human Neanderthals had ruined her favorite shoes! Her eyes blazed with fury as she spun to face the remaining two attackers. Horus hadn't moved or even groaned. Ransom was afraid they had badly hurt him in their stupidity, and that made her even madder.

The low growl came from somewhere deep in her gut, as she bared her teeth at them, moving to place her body between Horus and his attackers. They moved in unison, both men turning their attention on her completely. She was able to deflect the blow of the first, but the second was luckier. She managed to twist her body, batting at the man's arms. It set his aim off just enough so her hip caught the brunt of the blow instead of her ribs. With her second fist, she caught one of her attacker's on the cheek, turning his head and forcing him to back off. She managed to keep her feet but it still hurt like hell. The two bruisers backed off, looking warily at each other as Ransom stood over Horus, protecting him with her body.

She detected a subtle shift around her, unsure of what the change meant until two massive arms closed around her, jerking her off her feet. “Well, well, looks like we have a little hellcat here boys.” The one she had thrown to the ground at the start of the fight was back on his feet. She should have made sure he was down, but there were so many of them ... One of the others laughed. “We'll see how much fight is left in her after we're done with her."

The man she had struck in the throat coughed again. “Yeah, well, I got something for her now.” He stepped forward and punched her on the side of her head. Starbursts of pain bloomed behind her eyes and she felt herself losing consciousness. She couldn't afford to pass out now. Horus needed her! Her body sagged in the arms of the man holding her and he lifted her higher, carrying her a few steps away from Horus’ prone form before throwing her to the ground.

When he had first felt the blows coming in, Horus had bunched his muscles and tightened them up. He was more than capable of dealing with these thugs, but hadn't wanted to reveal any more of his capabilities than was necessary. If he had to take a few lumps before really letting loose, he was fine with that. He even let them take him down, letting them think he was vulnerable and weak. If they thought they had the upper hand, maybe they would get careless and he could find out more about the bullet operation.

That was until Ransom had jumped into the fray. She knew he was strong, but the attack had been so quick, and so vicious, she must have thought he was seriously hurt. She didn't know how strong he was and that he was only faking his injuries to gain an advantage. She thought he was hurt and he could hear it in her voice. When she cried out his name there was a concern there that went beyond just thinking he was in trouble. She cared for him. Even considering his present circumstances, Horus was inordinately happy.

He felt one of his attacker's lifted from him and then he heard the man's surprised cry. Then another, and a third. He heard a bone break, and a scream of pain, and he knew it wasn't Ransom's. Then they were off him totally. For all his size and bulk, they thought he was done and a newer, far more dangerous threat had entered their midst.

He rolled to his side and watched how she was suddenly standing between him and his attackers. Defending him. Protecting him. He heard her low growl, and he knew that if she shifted, these men were as good as dead. But she didn't shift. She understood she needed to protect her identity as much as he had, so she had waited to see what they would do, and it cost her.

He watched as she was lifted into the air, and before he had even made it to his own feet, he watched in horrified anger as she was punched in the side of the head. Horus marked that one; and he promised himself that that man would get no mercy.

They didn't even realize that he was back on his feet and moving. Ransom was on the ground and they were moving in on her like male predators do with a subdued female prey. They thought they were victorious, and were already planning on collecting their spoils. Their attention was on something now other than fighting, and that distraction cost them.

Horus’ first blow caught the man that had thrown her to the ground in the side of the head, and he went down as if he'd been pole-axed. His next strike was with the flat palm of his hand into the chest of yet another of Marco's goons. That blow broke ribs and launched the thug through the air to strike against the brick wall of the club. He was already fading into unconsciousness when Horus stepped over Ransom's body.

"Stay down, lover. You've done enough. These are mine."

Then it got ugly. A knife was drawn. A bat was recovered from the alley. Then they moved in on him. They were cautious now, because he should not even be standing, let alone fit enough to fight. The brute with the knife attacked first, thinking that Horus would back away from the more lethal attack. Horus just grinned, moving faster than the man could have anticipated, and trapped his attacker's knife arm between his body and his powerful left arm.

Horus’ head snapped forward, cracking into the other man's face, and the man's broken nose spouted blood at once. With his assailant's arm still trapped against him, Horus drove the heel of his free right hand into the man's jaw, breaking it and forcing a third opponent into unconsciousness.

His combat senses were in full tune now, and Horus heard the bat swinging at his back even before Ransom cried out a warning. Without even looking behind him, Horus released the unconscious man from his grip, raised his hand and caught the swinging bat in his palm with a solid smack of flesh on wood. This time, it was not the flesh that yielded. To the bat-wielding assailant, it was as if he had struck a brick wall. Horus turned around slowly and pulled the baseball bat from the man's hands with ease.

Then he broke it in half.

The two remaining men could see the feral gleam in Horus’ eyes, and the basic, instinctive fear of facing the unknown swelled within them. One of them turned and ran from the alley, all thoughts of further confrontation forgotten. The second one tried to get away, but in his foolishness, he had struck Ransom earlier, and Horus was not one to forgive that slight.

The Weret Master was on him in a second, and bore him to the ground swiftly and painfully using all of his strength and weight. He was kneeling on the man's back, one hand curled under his chin, pulling the thug's head back, and arching his back under his knee. Horus’ other hand was raised high, poised for a strike on the thug's exposed throat, but he did not attack. The man was screaming like a child, and Horus’ voice was a harsh whisper that cut through his enemy's squeals. “Exactly what was it you had planned for her?"

Ransom had risen to her feet momentarily. The loss of her heel and the dizziness that overwhelmed her at her sudden movement had her falling down on her butt. In frustration, she kicked off the shoes and took several deep breaths. She was not a fighter, not a hunter. She had a keen intellect and had been able to use her brains and empathy to escape confrontations that had threatened to turn violent, but talking the thugs down hadn't been an option in this case.

She had never seen anyone move as fast or as furiously as Horus had. Watching him now in all his deadly splendor, she remained silent to see what he would do. Mindless of the filth, grime and blood covering her as a result of the struggle, all she could do was watch and wait for the outcome. She didn't think she had the energy or wherewithal to regain her feet alone.

"We wasn't gonna hurt her man, we was just gonna scare her.” The thug blubbered, crying like a frightened child. He saw his own death only inches from his face and was powerless to keep it at bay. He would say anything to keep the large man on his back from breaking it or killing him. Whatever he wanted to hear. Anything but the truth. That would get him killed for sure.

"I don't believe you.” Horus’ voice was soft, but cold and determined. “I think you had something specific in mind. Tell me.” Horus leaned back a touch more on the man's back, and the human screamed out in pain.

As soon as Horus eased up the pressure, the mugger started talking. “I ... we ... were going to use ... her. You know ... you know what we wanted to do.” The man's eyes were filled with tears of pain and terror.

"Yes. I do know."

The snap of the man's neck was muted by the large muscles in Horus’ arms. As the Lycan rose to his feet, he let the body drop to the alleyway like so much discarded garbage. Then Horus was back at Ransom's side. “Are you all right, Ransom?” He brushed the hair from her face, and kissed her forehead. When she nodded she was okay, he was greatly relieved. For a moment he thought he had acted too slowly and she had gotten hurt while he was playing games. He knelt beside her and gently lifted her up into his arms.

Ransom felt the blood drain from her face at the sound of the man's neck breaking, small tremors running through her body. Though they lived in a violent world where death was commonplace, she had never witnessed it first hand. She had been sheltered and protected from the stark reality of what was necessary for their own survival. Vaguely she had heard about hunters killing rogue or dangerous Lycans known as Wilders. Guardians removed threats of all kinds from the Lycan community at large on a regular basis. Yet she had never seen it with her own eyes. On some distant level she realized she was going into shock but that didn't help her control the trembling of her body. She curled into Horus, horrified and shaken. He had just killed a man and yet he was the only one she wanted to have touching her.

Marco had seen it all. “You ... is he dead?"

Horus nodded. His eyes were like flint as he ordered the other Jarvis brother into the club again. “We need an office to talk, and my lady needs a chance to recover. Do not make me ask twice."

Marco just backed away from the large man and headed back down the hall. He opened the door to an office so close to the main lounge that the pulsating beat of the music could be heard through the walls.

Horus gently placed Ransom in a chair then stood to face Marco again. He was surprised to see Marco holding a small, thin silver dagger that he had apparently recovered from his desk drawer.

"I know this stuff is like poison to you ... things. If you try anything, I'll kill you. Just like you killed my brother.” There was a level of certainty in Marco's stance and tone that told Horus he was serious in his threat. It also told Horus and Ransom that Marco knew of his brother's death, the lack of an obituary record notwithstanding.

"Well,” Horus said calmly, “you're right to a certain extent. That stuff is like poison to most of my race. Fortunately, I'm not afflicted with that allergy."

"Allergy?” Marco didn't know what else to say, his confusion evident to Horus’ senses.

Horus nodded. “Allergy. It's as deadly to most Lycans as some insect bites or shellfish are to humans.” He spread his arms out. “But look at me. I've been stabbed and sliced up by silver at least fifty, maybe sixty, times. Heals over just fine. Heck, sometimes I think it actually makes me stronger. Like steroids for Lycans.” He stepped forward, and his lips curled back in a grimace. “But it still stings, and if you try and stick me with that, I will be angry. Now sit down."

Marco stepped back behind his desk and placed the knife on the desktop. He was licking his lips as he tried to figure out how to stop a Lycan that couldn't be stopped, when Horus interrupted him. “Marco, I think we got off on the wrong foot here, so I'm willing to start over. But how about you get us something to drink first? I'll have a Johnny Walker Red, and my lady friend would like a glass of white wine."

Marco simply nodded, then he rose from his seat, gave Horus a wide berth, and dashed out of the office to get their drinks. Horus closed the door behind him before moving to Ransom's side, his concern evident on his face.

"Are you all right, babe?"

Ransom managed to nod, her hands gripped tightly in her lap to keep them from shaking. She opened her mouth then shut it again when her voice refused to work. Her head and hip hurt tremendously, screaming at her for attention, but she had blocked it all out to try and cope with what she had seen in the alley. Not only seen, but been party to. She had been a part of that man's death. She knew that. Horus had seen him strike her, and that had been enough for the Master. It sent ice through her blood to think about. On a rational level she knew what the man and his friends would have done to her, but rationality wasn't in command at the moment.

She could not look at Horus, knowing he did not need the distraction of her falling apart on him. He was in the midst of an incredibly important interrogation, which required his total focus. She wouldn't be a hindrance to him by causing him to split his attention. Tears welled in her eyes at the tenderness in his voice. If he had remained harsh and commanding, she could have used that as a shield, giving her strength to do the same. Her breath hitched in her throat and she wiped at the wetness building in her eyes with an impatient swipe of her hand. Not here. Not now. She could fall apart later. She swallowed several times, needing to find something to say that would ease the tension. “Are you immune to Kryptonite too?” She managed to croak, proud of herself for sounding almost normal.

Horus chuckled. “You didn't believe that, too, did you? I must be good.” Then he shook his head. “That stuff tears me apart, Ransom. I'm terrified of silver. Last time I was cut with a silver dagger it burned like a bastard. But I couldn't let him think he had an edge. For now, we still have an upper hand."

Horus cupped her face in his hands and kissed her gently. “You were beautiful out there."

When the door to the office opened, Horus was sitting on Marco's desk, spinning the silver dagger by the handle, its point stuck in the desk. “Good,” he said as he rose, casually jamming the dagger deep into the surface of the desk, “you're back. Now we can get to it."

He took Ransom's wine from Marco's hand and handed it to her, placing his hand at her shoulders for comfort.

"Those guys out there, in the alley. They didn't know did they, what you had sicced on them?"

Marco shook his head. “Would they have believed me?"

"Your brother did."

Marco laughed. “He had no choice after Amris changed in front of him. Christ, I thought I was going to fuckin’ pass out when he did it in front of me."

"So you haven't told anyone else about Amris? Or the rest of us?"

"No one would...” Then he stopped and realized what he was saying. He reached for the dagger, but found that he could hardly budge it. It was stuck firmly in the desk. “Oh, shit ... don't kill me."

Horus waved his hand. “I already told you that won't hurt me and I have no intention of killing you. In fact,” Horus drank his whisky in one shot, “I think I might have changed my mind about you."

"If you want to find out why your brother died ... I mean, the whole truth, meet me tomorrow, say around noon, right here. But right now, I need to get my lady back home. She's had a rough night."

Horus helped Ransom to her feet, and they were just about out the door when Marco stopped him. “Those guys in the alley, I had to call an ambulance. I just said I heard a big fight."

"So?"

"Eric ... the one you killed. Why did you do that?"

Horus was quiet a moment as he considered his words carefully. “The rest of them ... they were just doing what you asked them to. They tried to put a beating on me, and it didn't work out for them. That's nothing to get killed over. But Eric?” Horus shook his head. “He crossed the line when he hit her. My bitch is under my protection. Always."

Marco nodded his understanding, his eyes skipping to Ransom nervously. He remembered that he had taken a strong grip on the woman's arm at the beginning of the fight. He hoped she didn't have a bruise. God only knew what the large man would do to him.

Ransom couldn't help the thrill that went through her at hearing Horus refer to her as his bitch. Lycan females were commonly and collectively referred to as bitches, more so because of the canine nature of their existence. But, as with most terms and endearments, when a sire referred to a Lycan female as a bitch, it was meant as a term of respect for the female's prowess. It was a term of possession and a measure of the depths of Horus’ feelings for her that he would use the term in front of a human. It shouldn't have made her so happy, considering she should really be thinking of pushing him away, but it did.

Then it hit her. Not only had she been party to Eric's death, but the cause of it. She had truly been so sheltered that the violence of their lifestyle had never really filtered down to her. It had never been necessary before. Now she was suddenly responsible for a man's death ... because he had hurt her. Suddenly she couldn't deal with the enormity of that loss. She let Horus lead her through the bar and out to their car silently.

They were half way to the hotel when Ransom asked, “Are you alright?” Her voice was soft and somewhat delicate, wondering how Horus was coping with the killing.

"I'm fine baby.” Horus reached over the console, taking one of her cold hands into his. “What about you?” He was becoming concerned. She hadn't stopped shaking since they left the alley, her skin so pale it was almost translucent. Belatedly he realized she was in shock, and pressed the accelerator harder in an effort to get them to their hotel as quickly as possible.

"Yeah. I think so.” Ransom nodded, gripping his hand tightly. He was so warm she wanted to sink into him and let him take away the chill she couldn't seem to get rid of. “He's dead because of me, isn't he?"

Horus squeezed her hand gently. “No, babe. He's dead because of what he did."

When they got to the hotel, Horus wrapped his big arm around her and effortlessly guided her up to their room, mindless of the stares or whispers of the other patrons in the lobby. He didn't stop once they made it into their room, carrying her on into the bathroom where he started a hot bath. Horus could tell that Ransom had probably rarely experienced anything like tonight before in her life, and he knew she needed some time to decompress from the shock.

Sitting on the toilet seat lid, he cradled her, kissing her hair. Gently he began to strip her clothes from her, keeping his motions slow and his touch light. Ransom lay like a doll in his arms, neither fighting nor helping him. She felt like her mind had shut down completely, though her thoughts were spinning out of control. She had never reacted to any situation like this before and it made her angry. She didn't want Horus to think her weak or a liability but she just couldn't get her body to follow the commands of her turbulent mind.

Horus’ hands felt like heaven, his arms the perfect solace she needed. He was her security; the anchor she needed in the chaos roaring through her with the force of a tidal wave. She felt him lift her again, settling her in the steaming water. His large hands were so very gentle cradling her as if she were made of blown glass. She whimpered softly though if it was because she was suddenly bereft of his embrace or because her skin was so very cold and the water so hot she couldn't tell. She heard him murmur nonsensical endearments and found comfort in the tone and timber of his voice.

Horus was being so sweet and gentle with her and she didn't deserve it. She didn't deserve him. He was too kind and too thoughtful to be manipulated by her puppet masters. It wasn't fair. Closing her eyes, she let her head droop forward. “I'm sorry.” She said, ashamed of herself.

Horus nodded his head, misunderstanding the apology. “Yeah, I know, Ransom. But it's okay. Really.” He reached over and got a bar of soap and lathered it up, gliding the soap over her body. Washing away the events of the night as he washed her skin.

"First death?"

Ransom shuddered under his touch. “First fight."

Horus sat back on his haunches, stunned at her admission. Then he understood what that meant. She wasn't a fighter. Not in any way, shape or form. Yet, when she thought he was in dire trouble she hadn't hesitated. She hadn't screamed ... except his name, which Horus thought was actually pretty cool ... she had just acted.

"Okay, that was pretty impressive.” Horus nodded his head, unable to keep from smiling widely. “My bitch. Hear her roar.” Then he leaned down and gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead. “Thank you for rescuing me.” It didn't matter that he hadn't needed rescuing. What mattered to Horus right now was letting Ransom believe she had.

The rest of her bath was completed in silence. Horus used a washcloth and warm, soapy water all over her body, just to relax her and work away the stress of the evening. As he washed her, Horus found that he actually didn't mind Ransom being so frightened of the fight and all that it represented. Too many Lycan gave in to their bloodthirsty nature and refused to look for the gentler solution to things.

Ransom, apparently, was one of the gentle folk, and Horus found that idea pleasantly appealing.

He helped her out of the tub and started drying her off, but she stopped him with her hand on his. She smiled at him and shook her head, then shooed him from the bathroom. Since she seemed to be coming back to earth, Horus gave her another gentle kiss then turned to give her some privacy.

Before he could leave, Ransom looked at him and felt her heart go out even more to this gentle giant. After what he had done for her, just now, with his caring touch, she felt an urgent need to show him how much she appreciated his gentle touch.

"Wait,” she whispered, forcing Horus to a halt. “Don't leave."

Horus was a little surprised when she stopped him and called him back to her. He was even more astonished when she started undoing his shirt buttons. With a little quirk of a smile, she whispered, “I'm not the only one who got dirty tonight."

His surprise quickly turned to a warm flush of pleasure at her hands on his skin. She started the water again and he held still, allowing her to undress him. He didn't normally take baths, but he wasn't going to fight her either. If Ransom wanted to take care of him in the same manner he had just taken care of her, he wouldn't argue.

She took her time, slowly removing each article of clothing piece by piece, as she examined his body for bruises or injury. She had seen him go down under a firestorm of blows from baseball bats and hard, brutal kicks no less, and she needed to see for herself that he was alright. He didn't flinch when her fingertips brushed the bruise on his ribs or the discolored area on his back. Lightly she kissed each wound before guiding him into the water.

Her eyes took on a light of their own, her motions becoming more animated with each passing moment. She was returning to herself slowly but surely. She was enough of herself that she was able to wash him with confidence and sureness. She was not shy or skittish with touching him, instead she seemed to find reasons for her hands to remain on his body.

Once he was clean, she tugged on his hand, pulling him from the tub. He went easily enough, stepping onto the small rug on the bathroom floor. She didn't stop to let him dry off, instead leading him silently into the bedroom. He went willingly, wondering what she was up to. She sat him on the edge of the bed then pushed his shoulders back until he was lying in the same position he had been that morning when he woke. Then she pushed his knees apart to kneel between them. Her mouth was warm and inviting as it closed over the tip of his hardening erection, working him with her hand to bring him to full attention.

"Ransom...” He wanted to tell her she didn't have to do this, but that would have been an even stupider thing to say than anything else he had said today, because he wasn't about to lie to her. When her hands slid up his length, and her mouth closed over him, he couldn't do anything but lie back and enjoy the moment.

He needed to look at her. He needed to see her: Ransom. He propped himself up onto his elbows, and whispered her name, drawing her gaze to meet his. Her eyes flashed with desire, and it was a look Horus knew all too well. She smiled at him then brought her mouth down again, and Horus could only groan at her touch.

He reached for her but she pushed his hands away. Then her tongue moved and slid over his shaft and he cried out. She slid her hands over to his, and they laced their fingers together. She squeezed his hands as her mouth moved even lower over him. He was too large for everything she wanted to do, but by his reactions and his sighs and the way he whispered her name between his sighs, she knew it was enough.

Finally, he could take it no longer. Crying out her name, he tilted his head back and fell back onto the bed. Her mouth continued to work on him, taking in his essence and savoring the heady taste of his seed.

As she cleaned him with lips and tongue, he whispered her name, over and over, “Ransom. Ransom. Ransom ... my love..."

She rose smoothly from the floor and turned to the small light on the nightstand by the bed. As the light went out, she settled next to her sire, accepting his arms around her with delight, and pushing all other thoughts from her head. She didn't want to think about her father's debt. She didn't want to think about the call she would have to make in the morning to report what had happened tonight. She only wanted to remember the thrill she felt at being Horus’ bitch, and the joy in her heart when he had called her name and proclaimed his love.

As he lay in his new bed listening to the growing thunder outside, Silas Grey, formerly Lunetier, couldn't help but wonder if his father had anything to do with the attack on his Pack Mistress. He knew that there was no way Amris could make such an accusation without proof. To do so would certainly bring about a feud between the Packs, and with all the alliances scattered between the five states, it would almost mean a civil war.

What really had Silas wondering, though, was where his own allegiances lay. His father had raised him as a pup since the death of his mother. Carlos had shown him how to hunt; how to track; by the Moon, he had even been with him during his first kill. How did you discount all of that? Barely two weeks ago in a scene that was etched in Silas’ memory forever, his broken father had told Amris that he was prepared to die to save his son.

Now that same son was lying in bed wondering if his father had planned and attempted an assassination of the Grey Pack Mistress.

He tossed and turned for several hours before coming to a decision. If there was currently no evidence one way or the other, he would find out what had happened. If his father was innocent, he would let Amris and Kiera know that, so they could look for the true assassin. But what if Carlos was guilty?

Silas sighed and closed his eyes. If his father was guilty then he would have to do whatever it took to get him back here to face Amris’ judgment.

It was the way the Packs worked. Amris had taken him in, and made him a Pack Hunter immediately. He had been trusted, and given free reign of the compound. After saving Kiera's life in front of all those witnesses, he was pretty much the wolf that everyone wanted to be close to. Even the bitches. By the Stars, especially the bitches!

He never thought he would be the target of so much female attention, but it couldn't be denied. He was the one they all wanted now, and it scared him. How did Pack Masters deal with it all the time? No wonder Amris had been off searching for a mate! It had probably driven him insane. There was only one bitch Silas wanted; he just had to make his move. He wanted to approach her clean and without the stigma of the possibility his father had been involved in the assassination attempt on Kiera.

Thinking of the bitches at his heels had temporarily distracted Silas from his earlier thoughts, but there was no way to avoid them. He needed to find out if his father was involved in Kiera's assassination attempt or not, and he would have to find out at once.

He slid out of bed and quickly got dressed. He threw a small bundle of food together with some water, then he scrawled a quick note to let everyone know where he had gone and why. He would be expected to stay on hand since the Grey Core was under full alert. If there was an emergency while he was gone, he did not want them to waste time looking for him when he would not be available. Besides, with all the Hunters of the Weret Pack working with them, Khefris would probably not even notice he was gone.

With his preparations complete, and no real reason to delay any further, he threw the note on his bed, slipped out the door and faded into the night. Since all the guards were focused on making sure no one got in, none of them would think of anyone getting out. At least that was Silas’ hope.

Fifteen minutes later he had escaped the compound and was running at an easy lope for familiar hunting grounds. He shifted to his wolf form to make the travel faster, but he knew it would still be several hours before he reached his former home. Then things would definitely start getting difficult.

Cheri had not been without her own restless night. Since witnessing Silas dive over the Ceremony table to knock that poisoned glass form her Mistress’ hand, the young man had been in her thoughts constantly. He was just so handsome, and sleek, and sexy. She couldn't believe he hadn't accepted the favors of any of the other bitches to curl at his feet, but apparently, that was the case. She couldn't help but laugh inside every time she watched one of them come storming back from his place, fuming at being turned down.

She wanted to believe that they were being turned down because Silas was waiting for her. That would have been what the Norms called a fairy-tale ending. She wanted to know what it felt like to be held in his arms; to feel his lips on hers and his hands ... well, she hoped he knew what to do with his hands!

She rolled over again, and heard the thunder in the distance. There was a bad storm coming. She could smell it on the wind. No wonder the Pack sires had doubled the guard and tightened the perimeter of the Core. If there was an attack planned, the storm would give more than enough cover to advancing troops.

With an exasperated sigh, she sat up and threw the covers from her body. She padded over to her closet and pulled out some clothes to get dressed. She could hear Shiri and Ra next door and knew that they weren't going to hear her, but she still moved as quietly as possible.

She didn't know what news Ra had received from Amris, but he was planning on leaving tomorrow, and Shiri had said she was going with him. Just like that. It was a gesture, Cheri knew, that her sister was telling her it was time for her to be on her own. Shiri had found a sire, and although Ra was no Master, he was a Master's second, and that was no small thing.

Cheri had to admit as well that Shiri was right. It was time for Cheri to stand on her own. That thought made up her mind. She had never done what she was about to do before. It was something her sister might have done, but not her. Cheri knew she was a follower, not a leader, but tonight she couldn't afford to wait for Silas to come to her.

She was out the door and across the compound before she even realized she was moving.

When she got to the small house assigned to Silas, the first tremors of anxiety hit her belly. He was sleeping. He didn't want to be woken up. She was going to be a pest. Then she shook her head. No. Silas was hers. Those other bitches weren't what he needed, or wanted. It was her. He needed her. Tonight she was going to prove it to him. She reached for the door and slipped inside, being as quiet as possible, then she closed the door behind her.

She edged toward the bedroom and saw the rumpled blankets there, but no sign of Silas.

"Silas?” She called out in a loud whisper. “Silas? Are you here? Where are you?” She swallowed. “It's me ... it's Cheri. Shiri's sister. I came over here to see if...” She took a deep breath. “I came over to see if there was anything between us. Or if there could be.” She didn't know if he could hear her from wherever he was hiding or not.

"I think you are so handsome. And so fast and strong. And I saw what you did for Kiera and it was so brave. And I ... I would like to know if you would have me for your bitch.” The words came out in a rush, sentences running together all on one breath.

Silence.

The moment stretched out and Cheri suddenly wondered if Silas was even there to have heard her. She sniffed at the room and could tell he had been there recently. She sniffed around the house, looking for any sign of him, but found nothing. Where the hell was he? He was not on guard duty, she had already checked the roster.

She went back to his bedroom and turned on the light. She didn't care now if she was seen over here. Silas was gone, and she was scared. Had he already chosen another? Was he with her now? That's when she saw the note.

"I don't know if my father is responsible for what happened to Kiera or not but I intend to find out. I should be back in a day or two with an answer. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine."

Oh no! By the Moon and Stars! What did he think he was doing? If his father did have anything to do with trying to poison Kiera, he could hardly let Silas know about it! Cheri didn't know what to do. She should just rush over and tell Ra what had happened. He would know what to do. Or better, Khefris. Yes, she would go and tell Khefris that the new hero had run off and left the compound when it was under full alert, to see his father.

Ahhhh! That would never work! With everything going on in the compound right now, she couldn't afford to bother either of the second's over this.

Cheri stood in place for several minutes, her mind spinning. He couldn't have been gone long. She would just go after him, and stop him before he did anything foolish. Yes. That's what she would do. Cheri moved quickly through his house, gathered up some light things to eat, and some water. Then she went back to his bedroom and dug through his laundry. Finding a small backpack at the bottom of the pile, she tucked the provisions into it and slung it over her shoulder.

His scent was still strong on his clothes there and she drank it in. His scent was earthy and masculine. She felt her nipples harden in desire. She felt her loins tighten at the thick, male scent. This was what a sire should do to his bitch, she smiled. Then she shook her head. Later, she reasoned. There would be time for that later, after she brought him home safe.

She would be able to find him now anywhere, his scent was so strong and powerful in her head. Unable to resist, she shoved a large button down shirt into the bag as well. She told herself it was just to keep his scent fresh in her nose.

Slipping out of the compound, she took a deep breath and turned north. Okay, Silas, she thought, I'm coming for you.

In the distance, the thunder rolled again.

Ransom and Horus were woken none too gently by the shrill ringing of the phone. Ransom had been dreaming and woke with a start at the sudden noise tearing through the silence. Horus chuckled as he reached over to pick up the handset. With a sigh of relief, Ransom collapsed back onto the bed, pulling the pillow over her head.

"Come on sleepy head, it's time to get up.” Horus gave her a soft shake after a brief conversation on the phone.

"The hell it is, the sun isn't even all the way up yet.” Ransom's voice was muffled by the pillow though the annoyance in her tone came through loud and clear.

"Come on. Kiera and Amris are on their way up.” Horus chuckled, running his hands down Ransom's body. She had the softest skin and he loved the feel of it under his palm. His chuckle turned into a full laugh at her reaction.

"Master Amris? Mistress Kiera? Here? Already?” Ransom leapt from the bed as if it had burned her and began rushing around the room to tidy up. They had clothes strewn everywhere and neither of them were dressed. Ransom did not want to make a poor impression on the Master and Mistress when they arrived.

"Now what did Amris tell you about titles, love?” Horus chided as he rose to his feet lazily, stretching. Ransom was reminding him of a hummingbird, flitting from spot to spot as she moved through the room. He doubted she was aware she was using her unnatural speed for something as mundane as cleaning, and it gave him a small delight to watch her in motion. She was beautiful, smart, attentive and would make a good mate. After last night, he knew there was no doubt she was the one. Any other bitch would have left him in the alley.

The words to ask her if she would take him were on the tip of his tongue but he held them back. She wasn't really paying attention to him right now, and he wanted the moment to be perfect. Candle light, soft music, maybe a special dinner for two. He had fallen for her so hard, he was unable to imagine a life without her. He vowed to himself he would make her his completely before they left Detroit.

"Right. No titles.” Ransom said hanging the suit Horus had worn the day before in the closet.

As she sped by him to straighten the sheets, Horus caught her into his arms and held her still for a moment, his eyes looking deeply into hers before taking her lips with his in a fierce kiss. “Good morning.” He muttered against her lips. “Calm down, the room looks fine and they will be here soon. We should probably be dressed when they get here."

With a yelp of surprise, Ransom had obviously realized he was right and they were both stark naked. He let her go somewhat reluctantly so she could dash to her bag, snatch up clothes, and vanish into the bathroom to do whatever mysterious odd rituals females performed in the morning.

Once the door was shut, Ransom dug out her cell phone. She needed to report in but more importantly, she needed to talk to her father.

[Survived fight to death.]

She sent him the text message, knowing it would make him proud. Though it wasn't exactly true, she was in a hurry. There had been a fight and a death, enough said.

Tam had always wanted a boy, never quite sure what to do with Ransom. She was such a girly female, and her mother had not allowed him to teach her any of the more male survival skills. Once she was gone, Tam simply didn't have the inclination or motivation to do more than provide for their survival himself. If he'd had a daughter more like Kiera, he might have been happier, might have been more attentive or stronger to avoid the pitfalls of drinking and gambling.

[Are you hurt?]

The text came back almost immediately, followed by another.

[Where are you?]

[No and back at the hotel. Fine and well. Don't worry.]

She sent back her reply, unable to hold back a silly grin. It was ridiculous really, but that small touch of concern in his question of her own safety gave her hope that she would not only get them out of the mess he had put them in, but make him proud at the same time.

[Are you safe?]

The question caught her by surprise. It really shouldn't have. It was just the sort of thing Tam would ask.

[With 2 Masters and a Mistress? Yes.]

Ransom was going to include more but was interrupted hearing a knock at the front door. She hit send then set the phone down to brush her hair, expecting that to be the end of the conversation. With her morning ritual complete, she pocketed the phone as she slipped out of the bathroom to greet their guests.

It wouldn't dawn on her until much later that she hadn't actually given a report. Throwing on her clothes, she was too happy to have her father show he actually cared about her to worry about anything else.

Kiera was tired and grumpy having gotten very little sleep the last two days. It had taken that long to have Leo's suitcase, the box and the gun shipped up to Grey Rock. Then they had driven to Detroit in the SUV. The seats might have been comfortable enough for a ten minute frolic, but she hated long drives. She yawned and rubbed her eyes as she followed Amris into the room. Taking one look at Ransom she frowned and propped her fists on her hips. “How the hell do you manage to look beautiful this time of the morning?” She demanded then turned to Amris with a pout. “Can I kill her?"

Ransom laughed with the others but the edgy Mistress had her on her guard. She was nervous and jumpy, moving to stand closer to Horus.

Horus stepped in to defend his woman with ease. “No, you can't kill her. And it wouldn't matter what time of day it was, Ransom is beautiful all the time.” Horus was in a good mood, his earlier decision to make Ransom his mate making him even more garrulous than normal. Neither Amris nor Kiera missed how protectively he stood with her, his hand on her hip.

He ordered up some room service breakfast with plenty of ham and sausage then turned back to Amris and Kiera. “I'm sorry, Kiera, but odds are you two won't get much more sleep. Ransom's work at finding Marco was perfect. We've already paid him one visit. There's no doubt he knows about us, and has been intimately involved with this whole plot. And he's met Amris more than once."

Horus was sitting on the bed with Ransom beside him. His hand was resting on her thigh, holding hers. Their fingers were laced and the subtle intimacy of their union was not lost on Kiera. Something had changed here, in the last day. There was more here than a young couple out to have fun. As much as the Huntress in her wanted to know about Marco, the female in her was more interested in what had happened with Ransom.

Amris nodded in agreement. Before they started in with their brain storming session, he produced the silver bullet from his jacket pocket, handing it over for inspection. Quickly he briefed both Horus and Ransom about how they had found it and about the gun that had been designed to shoot it. Horus found the feel of the bullet in his hand made it itchy, and he forced himself not to be afraid of it. It was so small, he shouldn't have been as frightened as he was, but it was death to his kind.

Ransom didn't even want to look at it.

When Amris was done, Horus described the events of the evening before, leaving nothing out. He couldn't fail to notice both Amris and Kiera looking at Ransom in a new light when they heard she had defended him against five bruisers, and he smiled with pride at that part of the story. Kiera gave Ransom a knowing smile and nodded.

As he finished, Horus added, “Marco doesn't think much of Amris, and I think we can use that. I want him to meet you, Amris, to show him just how much he's been lied to. I have no doubt he's afraid of us, but I think when he finds out his brother was used and set up to be killed by our opponents ... well, the whole enemy of my enemy thing might come into play."

"You think he'll help us because we want to find out who hired Leo?” Kiera asked quietly. She had been the one to kill Leo after all, for killing her own brother. Now Horus planned on bringing the two surviving kin together. She clearly didn't like that idea at all.

Horus shook his head. “Partly. I think he doesn't trust us as a Race. I want to show him we, at least, are on the side of the good guys.” He laughed. “Or at least, his side. But I also want to learn more about these bullets and the gun that fired them. Marco knows about those things and where they were made. We need that information to get their production stopped."

"And you think Marco will help us with that?” Amris was skeptical. “Those bullets are the only things the Norms have to protect themselves from us. If they found out about us, and mass produced them, we become a memory. Why would he give that up?"

Ransom smiled, her gaze turning to her sire's face. “Because he's scared to death of Horus."

Amris laughed. “I know some Lycan who are scared to death of Horus."

A knock at the door announced breakfast and they all took a moment to recharge and refuel before continuing with their planning. Finally Amris nodded. “Okay, let's meet this Marco fellow. You think we all need to go?"

"Yeah, I do.” Horus said. “I want him to see we mean business, and I don't want him getting any frantic ideas. He's seen what I can do, and he knows Ransom is my bitch. When he meets you and Kiera, he'll be so overwhelmed I think he'll follow along with whatever we suggest."

Ransom spoke up, almost timidly. “Horus, do we really need to go back to that club?"

Horus smiled so widely his canines gleamed. “Actually, babe, I was thinking of paying him a visit at home. He won't expect it, and I think showing him we know where he lives could go a long way towards gaining his co-operation."

Amris laughed again at his friend's plan. “I'll just bet it will. Okay. Let's go."

Ransom's phone vibrated in her pocket, just under Horus’ hand. He jumped, startled while she gave him an apologetic smile. “My dad likes to check on me often.” She waited until they were in the car before pulling the phone out to check the message.

[With you now?]

Ransom was thrilled her father was taking such an interest in her protection. It was the first he had shown any caring toward her in a long time.

[Yes.]

She responded quickly and pocketed the phone again with a soft smile.

Horus and Amris chatted about Pack politics and who would need to know what, once they learned more about the production of the bullets, as they drove to Marco's home. Kiera curled up in the back seat next to Amris and rested her head on his shoulder as she dozed lightly. Ransom kept her attention on the passing scenery as she sat silently beside Horus in the front seat, her fingers laced in his on his thigh.

Ransom found it hard to believe, but she suddenly felt happy. Her father's concerns had buoyed her spirits, and the pride she felt at being called Horus’ bitch in front of Kiera and Amris still hadn't faded. She felt his gentle strength in his grip, and the reason she was even with him in the first place seemed inconsequential. Her sudden happiness refused to let it interfere with the moment.

Their arrival in Marco's neighborhood attracted even more attention the second time and they pulled up in front of Marco's house with several pairs of eyes on them once more. They all felt the tension, as if a storm was about to break. Even Kiera, who Amris had to wake up to get out of the car, was on the alert.

Horus led them up to Marco's door and pounded on the sagging wood. It took several moments before Marco opened the door a crack. “What are you doing here?” His frightened whisper slid through the opening as he held the door in front of him like a shield. The freak was supposed to be at the club in two hours. Marco had even arranged for a few more guys to meet him there, and this time they were going to be armed. He thought he had planned well, not even considering the freak had tracked him to his own home. Now he was here and he had not only brought his woman but other friends as well. Marco was more than a little unnerved.

Horus pushed past him into his house, barreling the smaller man out of the way. Ransom followed right behind him, with Kiera and Amris filing in afterwards. When Amris closed the door, he locked it then leaned against it with his arms crossed. This was Horus’ idea, and though Amris was still skeptical on its success, he was willing to give his friend every opportunity to help sort this out.

"Relax, Marco. I just thought it might be a good idea to introduce you to some of my friends. Just to return the favor, you know, like how you introduced me to your friends last night."

Marco stepped back even further.

"Now, I know you met my lady friend last night.” His lips curled back and Marco paled. “She told me how you pulled her out of the way and told her not to get involved. I'm going to assume that's because you didn't want her hurt, and not for any other reason."

"Yeah, that's why. She's right."

Then Horus pointed to Kiera. “This pretty lady, she's a Pack Mistress. You know how much power she has? If she wanted to, she could order you killed for any reason, or no reason at all, and her whole Pack ... that's what? Seventy? Eighty Lycan?"

Kiera smiled seeing where Horus was going with this. “Actually, Horus, my Pack is over a hundred and eighty strong."

Horus whistled. “A hundred and eighty. Wow. That's a lot of werewolves to be hunting your sorry ass, isn't it, Marco?"

Horus wouldn't have believed it possible but Marco paled even further.

"And this gent, he's even scarier than that. I don't know what you may have been told about the Packs..."

Marco interrupted, feeling his very life hinged on his talking. “Amris never told me nothing about the Packs! He just came into town and hunted me up. He said he had a special job he wanted done, that I had a reputation for handling tough jobs. But he didn't say anything about the Packs until later."

Horus looked over to Amris and smiled. “Is that right, Amris? You came hunting this guy?"

Marco looked from Horus to Amris and shook his head. “No, no. This isn't Amris. Or, if he's named Amris, he's not the Amris that I know."

Amris spoke up now. Horus had brought Marco this far, but now it was his name that was on the line and his reputation. “Did this other Amris give you a last name?"

Marco nodded fervently. “Grey. Amris Grey. He's a Pack Master or Lord, or something like that. If this lady is a Pack Mistress, she must know him."

"I do.” Kiera answered. “Amris Grey is my mate and husband. This is Amris Grey. You've been lied to, Marco. And the people that lied to you ... they got Leo killed."

"What are you people talking about?” Marco had started to get over his shock and had been struggling for control. The mention of his dead brother was the catalyst that brought him back, and it brought him back angry.

Amris sighed and stood up straighter. “I'm Amris Grey, Marco. This is my mate. Someone in one of the Lycan Packs came to you, pretended to be me, and arranged to have a member of our family killed. They were too cowardly to attack us openly, so they used you and your brother. Now we need to find them."

"None of this is making sense!” Marco looked from Amris to Kiera and then to Horus and Ransom, who were standing together at the back of the room. “If you're really Amris Grey, and the other guy was only pretending, then prove it."

Amris shrugged and reached into his pocket. Marco flinched back but visibly relaxed when Amris pulled out his wallet. Flipping it open he showed Marco his driver's license, voter registration and social security card, though he prudently kept his finger over the number.

Marco was spooked, he stepped back, reaching behind him to lean against a low slung table. “How did you even find me? How did you know Leo? Why should I even think of helping you?"

Kiera stepped forward, moving around Amris and closing the distance between herself and Marco. “You know the man your brother killed with his little silver friend? That was my brother. You think you were the only one hurt? I know the bitterness of losing a brother. The hopelessness that life will never be the same. The burning need to see someone pay for his death. I've been there and I will bet you are right where I was.” She gave him a moment to let that sink in.

"The people who are behind this knew I wouldn't let his death rest. The cowards knew I would go after those responsible. They expected me to go after him,” she jerked a thumb at Amris, “and take him on one-on-one. Now I may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I'm not stupid either. He's a mean son of a bitch when he wants to be and probably could break me with a thought. They chose one of the biggest and baddest of our kind to set up as a scapegoat, just because they couldn't get to him any other way. I was played for a fool and they banked that my need for revenge would be stronger than my intelligence. They were hoping that I would give him no choice but to kill or be killed."

Amris stepped up next to Kiera, resting his hand on her shoulder to present Marco with a unified front. “We're going to find out who did this and why, with or without your help. If you want to know, too, you'll help us."

Marco sighed his eyes closing wearily for a moment. “Someone carved a picture into his body.” He spoke slowly, opening his eyes to look directly at Amris. “You want me to believe you had nothing to do with it?” He scanned the room, his suspicious gaze flowing from one to the other of the Lycans surrounding him. “That none of you had anything to do with it at all?"

Amris turned and moved over to the couch as he asked Marco, “You mind if I sit down?"

Marco said nothing so Amris took that as an invitation and sat. “Get a chair, Marco. I'm going to give you some news that you're not going to like. But I think you've been lied to enough."

He waited until Marco settled himself into a chair, then he started. “When your brother killed Kiera's brother, she was entitled under Pack Law to seek out vengeance on her brother's killer. Unlike your own petty and outdated codes of mercy, we Lycan deal with things a little more directly."

Amris looked Marco in the eye and said, “Your brother died quick. I can promise you that. And, for what it's worth, he died pretty bravely, because he was facing down two Lycan at the time."

Marco glared at Horus.

"No. It wasn't Horus.” Amris said. “Show him Kiera."

At her mate's order, Kiera looked into Marco's eyes and shifted. Her body grew taller, the muscles more powerful. In her hybrid shape she retained her human shape and form, but the sleek white fur that covered her also gave her a terrifying, unearthly appearance. She was a creature from nightmares, and she was standing not five feet away. Marco scrambled to get away, upsetting the chair in his haste. Mentally he chastised himself for almost forgetting what these things were.

"It was Kiera's brother that was killed. It was her duty to exact vengeance. It was Kiera that killed your brother ... on my order."

Marco forgot himself, and he forgot who these things were. He lunged at Kiera with his fists, but Amris was already there taking the blow on his cheek. Marco swung again and Amris took this blow as well on the side of his head, then he grabbed Marco's wrists.

"You feel that hurt?” Amris shouted at him. “You feel that? That's what she felt, too."

Without being told to, Kiera shifted back to her human form. “It's like Amris said, Marco. We could do this without you. But we both think you deserve a chance to help. We weren't lying to you earlier, Marco. The person that posed as Amris and the people he works for knew Leo was going to die. They planned for it, and counted on it. You want them to get away with it?"

As she watched the tableau unfold in front of her, Ransom took a step back from the human's fury. She could feel his anger and agitation from where she stood on the other side of the room. His pain and fury was like a physical presence in the room, and how Kiera could face down such unbridled hatred was beyond her. She found a tremendous amount of respect for the Mistress. That must be what it took to be a real Mistress; to be brave when every part of you wants to be somewhere else. She glanced to Horus. He deserved a Mistress who could stand by his side without fear or qualm. It was in that moment that she realized as much as she had been lying to Horus, she had been lying to herself. Ransom knew she could never be what Horus needed.

In that moment, she made a decision. When they returned to the Hotel, she would pack her things and leave. It would crush her. She knew that and was ready to accept it. As much as she knew it would break Horus’ heart, she just couldn't string him along on this web of lies any more. Enough was enough. She would find another way to pay the remaining part of her father's debt. She would have to do it without destroying her sire ... without destroying Horus.

"It was a set up.” Amris was saying to Marco when Ransom forced herself to pay attention again. “Leo was set up to die and Kiera was set up to kill him. They want her dead and by going after him, she gave them the reasons they needed to kill her."

Marco pulled back from Amris. “So let them kill her. Why should I care?” He turned to right the chair he had knocked over in his attempt to get away from Kiera.

"You should care,” Amris said between clenched teeth, “because they were both being manipulated. There is a puppet master out there somewhere, pulling the strings. We need to figure out who that is. Then you can get your vengeance against the right person. The person responsible for all this.” He ran a hand over his chin. “This might be a good time to point out we aren't the only ones of our kind who know about you. We can offer you protection, but only if you work with us."

Marco sat down heavily in the chair and looked at his guests. There was no denying that Amris and Horus were these Pack Masters that he had heard of. The raw power they exuded was intimidating enough. He had seen Horus in action, and Amris was rumored to be tougher. That idea was mind boggling.

He knew his brother, too, damn it. Leo had only taken that job because of Marco. Marco had insisted it was a good job. An easy hit, with easy money. He had seen Leo's eyes when the phony Amris had changed. Leo liked power. Marco was ashamed to think that maybe he had played his own part in getting his brother killed.

"How could I possibly help?” He asked quietly.

"For starters, describe the guy who impersonated me. What did he look like? What color was his fur when he changed? What did he sound like?” Amris sighed, visibly relieved. Now they would be making headway. “Secondly, I need you to write this all down and sign it."

At Marco's questioning glance, Amris explained. “It goes against our Codes and Laws to have outsiders do our business. It's a sign of weakness. I need you to help clear my name. I don't know if anyone knows that Leo was contacted by Amris or not, but I need to be protected."

Marco nodded. “I can do that. What else do you need?"

Horus stepped forward. “The bullets, Marco. We need to know where they are being made. Because everything we have shows it was a Lycan who paid for them to be made. That's treason against his race. With your letter, and those bullets, we will be able to prove what happened to Leo. The Lycans who used him, and got him killed, will face justice. Lycan justice."

Marco nodded. It had been a lot to absorb and understand, but he thought he knew enough now to believe these creatures. It was an odd feeling, but something told him that these ... Lycan ... could be trusted. They could have come in and killed him. He wouldn't have stood a chance. Besides, they wanted the same thing he did. They wanted Leo's killers to pay.

Fifteen minutes later they had a document printed off Marco's computer that told the whole story. It described who he had met, and when. It recounted the stranger's claim to be Amris Grey. It gave all the details on how Leo had been hired to kill a Lycan named Adric, and the bullets that would be used to kill him.

"That's everything I know.” Marco said. “Now I need to sign it, right?” He reached for a pen but Horus stopped him.

"Not ink, Marco. Lycans only accept one signature.” He shifted enough to bring out a claw, and took Marco's hand in his own. He felt Marco stiffen, and he kept his voice as calm and gentle as could be. “Relax, Marco. We gave you our word. You're protected."

He turned Marco's hand over and drew his claw as gently as possible over the back of the human's hand. Marco could see the flesh opening under the claw, but Horus’ claw was so sharp he didn't even feel the slice until it was done. Then it hurt like a son of a bitch.

Horus gently dabbed his blood onto the page, then quickly grabbed a large envelope from Marco's desk and slipped it inside.

Handing the document over to Amris, Horus smiled tightly. “It's not a name, Amris, but this Statement will keep you protected at the Gathering."

"Ransom.” Amris called her over and gave her the envelope. “Kiera and I are known. So is Horus. But whoever is doing this doesn't know about you. If something should happen to us, you need to get this letter to the Gathering."

Ransom's legs were heavy and wooden. To be imparted with such a tremendous responsibility humbled her tremendously. She felt so undeserving yet none of them had a clue as to why she was truly here. Taking the envelope from Amris, she slipped it into her pocket. How was she going to be able to leave now?

"Alright. Now, we need to know where the bullets are being made.” Amris never took his eyes from Marco, even as he handed off the document that could prove everything, to Ransom.

"It's too early. They don't even open until two in the morning. It takes a lot of skill to put together something like that without it blowing up. They all have day jobs, this is just a side line. You know, everyone wants to make a little extra money.” Marco shrugged. “I can take you there but you'll have to wait until they open. I don't have a key."

"We'll be back at one, Marco, and you better be here to meet us.” Horus said moving up to stand at Ransom's side, just needing to touch her. It was becoming an obsession, this constant need for contact.

"I'll be here.” Marco met his eye steadily, complete conviction in his tone.

Ransom paced the quiet hotel room, collecting what little she had and packing her belongings back into her suitcase. It would be the perfect opportunity to make her break, but she couldn't bring herself to walk out the door. They had been back at the hotel for a little over an hour, Amris and Kiera closing themselves up in their own adjoining room for a nap. Horus too had succumbed to the siren's call of sleep, leaving Ransom the lone sentry.

She really didn't mind. It was a good opportunity to think. As she zipped her case closed, her phone vibrated in her pocket indicting she had a text message.

[Update?]

The message from her father requested.

[Almost done here. Masters have one more thing to finish tonight. Will be home soon.]

She shot her text reply off to him. Home. Would it be the same? Ransom doubted it ever would now. Something had changed in the last few days between herself and her father. She had a new sire now, and though she would have to leave him soon, she had never felt more at home than she did in Horus’ arms. He had given her such a priceless gift she couldn't just walk out on him without some explanation. How could she possibly explain that she was simply there to spy on him? To distract him? By the Moon, this whole thing had gotten so twisted, she didn't even know what to think. She only knew she couldn't leave without saying something.

Moving to the dresser, she found a notepad of hotel stationary and a pen. Heavens, how was she going to explain this? Putting the pen to paper, she simply let the feelings flow.

Horus,

I am not who you think I am, and completely undeserving of you. I've gone home. Please—

She was interrupted by another text.

[Are you going with them?]

[Mistress and I are staying at the hotel.]

It struck her as odd that her father would take such a sudden interest in her every move, but she shrugged it off in an attempt to finish her note. As an after thought she added,

[What is my tally?]

Ransom needed to know how much she would be required to make up after all was said and done here.

While she waited for her father's answer, she stared back at the words she had already written. Looking at the one line she had written, it seemed lame and weak. Ripping off the page, she tried again.

Horus,

Please don't look for me. Have a good life and find a deserving bitch to be your companion.

No that wouldn't work either. Damn, this was harder than she thought it would be. Still, she tried again.

Horus,

The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. I only wish I were as good and pure as the illusion I created for you. I'm not. I have lied and deceived you from the start, for which I am truly sorry. If I had known what a wonderful and decent man you are, I never would have accepted the deal that put me in your bed. Forget me. Find someone worthy of you—

Her phone went off again.

[$7,500.]

It wasn't as much as she had hoped, but it would have to do. She was being left with $22,500 to make up, but she would have to figure something out that didn't involve ... distracting anyone. She couldn't worry about that now, her heart was too heavy and her thinking too distracted by what the next few hours would bring. She had to leave. For his sake, she had to make a break and step away. If she could just figure out how.

Horus stirred, reaching for the empty space next to him. “Ransom?” he asked sleepily, wondering where she was. She had been in his arms when he fell asleep, and it disoriented him to wake without her. When had she become so vital to him he thought of her when he woke?

"I'm here.” Ransom slipped the pad with its message back into the drawer, laying it on top of the envelope with Marco's statement. She would finish her note later. At that moment, she wanted nothing more than to lay down with him and let him hold her. She needed to pretend she would be there tomorrow, and the day after, and even the day after that. It was an illusion she chose to maintain for a little while longer.

Once Ransom was back in his arms, Horus closed his eyes again and settled in to sleep. The comfort of her skin and the warmth of her body was something the big Lycan hadn't realized he was missing until she provided it. Ransom, too, reflexively snuggled deeper into his embrace, and the sigh of contentment that passed her lips made Horus smile.

Kiera woke from her own nap a few hours later and showered to freshen up. Once dressed again, she stepped out into the main room where the others were sleeping. She knew Amris hadn't really trusted Ransom before this morning, and it surprised her that he had given her Marco's statement. It said a lot about how much trust he had in Horus.

Learning how Ransom had rushed to protect his friend had been a bit of an eye opener for both of them. Kiera didn't really know Horus all that well, herself. All she really knew of him was that he had always had a good sense of humor, and he had always been a loyal ally and friend to her mate. She found herself thinking back to their meeting with Marco. Horus had planned and run that meeting perfectly. She was a bit surprised to find herself liking him on her own, without Amris’ influence. It was a bit of a shock to Kiera when she found her feelings towards Ransom changing as well.

She leaned against the doorframe to the adjoining room and smiled when she remembered her first impression, diving into the car three days ago and finding Ransom sitting there! She had thought the entire plan to get her secretly out of Brown County had gone up in smoke, but Ransom had kept their secret. Stars above, because of Ransom's help they were all that much closer to finding out just what was going on, and why Adric had to die.

Kiera watched Ransom in her sleep and smiled. There was a small smile on Ransom's face while she lay wrapped up with Horus. Her hands were on Horus’ arms, and Kiera was surprised at the depth of feeling that these two had developed over the last two days. Then she laughed quietly to herself.

Two days? Amris had given her two minutes! If you cannot trust me now, then strike and kill me. But if you accept me, to aid you and protect you, then you must also accept your role as my mate. There can be no half measures now Kiera. And there certainly hadn't been!

Her life since that moment had been nothing but one dramatic event after another. Is that what her life as a Mistress was supposed to be? She seriously wondered if Ransom was strong enough for that kind of life, because whether she knew it or not, that's what was going to happen. Horus may not have put it into words as Amris had, but he couldn't hide how he felt. She had to smile at the irony of such a powerfully strong Lycan Master being so in thrall over petite Ransom.

Pushing away from the doorway to Horus and Ransom's room, Kiera went to the phone in the main living room, to order some dinner. The sires would need something to get them through their night. Maybe a nice steak? She heard movement behind her and saw Ransom had rolled to her back, and was holding Horus’ arm across her belly, but her eyes were open and she was watching Kiera.

Kiera put the phone down after placing the order and smiled. “I'm glad you're awake. As one new Pack Mistress to a future Pack Mistress, we need to talk."

Ransom slipped out of bed carefully so as not to disturb Horus and moved across the room to stand next to Kiera. She kept her voice low to keep from waking those still sleeping. “I will never be a Mistress.” She said with complete conviction. She wouldn't deceive Kiera any more than she already had unless it was absolutely necessary.

Kiera patted the arm of a chair next to her invitingly. “Sure, being a Mistress can be trying at times but the perks are well worth it.” She could tell by Ransom's expression that she was going about this all wrong. Changing her tactics she said, “He loves you and you love him. It's obvious to anyone who's around you longer than five minutes."

"Loving him isn't enough.” Ransom replied with a whisper. Turning her gaze back to Kiera she added, “It takes a special quality to be a Mistress. A quality I don't have. You on the other hand, have it in spades."

Kiera tried not to scoff openly. “I think you do.” She answered with complete faith. “You just need to work on your self confidence."

Ransom wanted to laugh aloud. Self confidence? That's the one thing she didn't have! “I know. Confidence is one of the key requirements to being a Mistress.” Ransom shook her head. “I can't imagine anything you wouldn't face down without a thought. You have complete confidence in yourself."

"You've never seen Amris angry.” Kiera chuckled, needing to lighten the mood.

"That doesn't seem to bother you.” A low male voice said as Amris entered the room to join them. He had woken without Kiera beside him, and the loss had made him unable to go back to sleep. Though he hadn't tried to eavesdrop, the women's voices had carried to him through the open door and he had heard every word. Moving to lean against the arm of Kiera's chair, he dropped a kiss on the top of her head.

"You can be down right scary.” Kiera objected, though she gave Ransom a conspiratorial wink.

Amris turned back around and peeked at Horus lying on the bed. The big man had already rolled to his back and it looked like he was going to be waking soon.

"Ransom, don't worry about what you might be afraid of, or thinking you don't have what it takes.” Amris gave her a warm smile. “When Horus asks you to be his mate, I know you'll be ready."

Amris’ statement only confirmed to Ransom, she needed to leave soon, before Horus had a chance to ask.

Horus sat upright in the bed and looked around. “Hey, where is everybody?"

They began filing back into the bedroom area with Amris in the lead. “Don't worry about it, pal. We just didn't want to wake you."

Horus raised an eyebrow. “Why doesn't that sound like I would like that? What were you all planning?"

Kiera laughed as Ransom moved over to Horus’ side. “Oh, we're well past the planning. We've moved on to the execution phase."

Horus rolled off the bed to his feet and grunted. His arm slipped naturally around Ransom's waist and he gave her a soft kiss as if he did this every day. He looked from Amris to Kiera and frowned. “I know I don't like the sound of that!"

Amris and Kiera laughed at Horus’ obvious confusion then Kiera excused herself to answer the door for room service. After the food was brought in and the sires were eating, both of their partners sat quietly next to them, a hand on their thigh, just to touch them. Both women knew their sires were going to be dealing with their first confrontation with their unseen enemy tonight. Both women also knew what type of weapons this enemy had at its disposal.

Ransom knew she should not be as distressed about Horus going out as she was, but she couldn't help it. He was facing some serious danger tonight, and she suddenly had a feeling that she wasn't going to see him again. That thought frightened her more than anything she had been doing, or been asked to do.

As she watched Horus and Amris slipping into their mental fighting zone, she suddenly, desperately wanted him to come back. She would stay the night ... just to make sure he was safe and leave in the morning. She could delay her departure until then. More than anything she wanted him to come back to her, safe and sound, so that she could at least give him one more night before she left.

Then the men were ready and at the door. Amris kissed Kiera as he always did; with as much passion and desire as he could fit into the moment. For his part, Horus kissed Ransom with equal intensity, actually lifting her off the ground and feeling the heat of her body against his own. He could feel the hammering of her heart, and he knew she was afraid for him.

"Don't worry about me, Ransom.” He said gently, meeting her frightened gaze with an expression of total confidence. “We'll be fine. And when I get back, we can talk about tomorrow...” He leaned down and whispered into her ear, so softly neither Amris nor Kiera could hear, “...my mate."

Then he was gone with Amris. As the hotel door closed, neither Horus, nor Amris, nor even Kiera, could see the look of shock and fear etched on Ransom's face.

Ten minutes later, Kiera was pacing the room once more. She was getting itchy and restless. She was a Huntress by nature and it went against everything she was to let Amris and Horus go hunting without her but she understood their concern. On a rational level, she knew she would be more in the way than an asset. Amris would be more concerned with keeping her safe than in completing the mission, possibly putting himself in even greater danger to do so. From what she had seen and heard of Horus, Kiera had a feeling he would have the same issue. It wasn't worth risking either of their safety just to make her feel included.

Kiera felt each tick of the clock as a throbbing in her blood. It would be the longest period of time she had been separated from Amris since their Bonding and his own adrenaline rush at the impending fight, sang through her. Their connection through their Bond had only continued to grow stronger, sometimes surprising her with the strength of the emotions roaring through her from him. She glanced to Ransom, momentarily envious of the woman. Her fingers were twisted in her lap betraying her nervousness, but at least she could sit still.

Ransom was worried as well, fear gnawing at her as to what the night would bring. If Horus survived the night, then he would return, and ask her to be his mate. She knew she could never accept, but the only way out of accepting would be if Horus never returned. Oh, Stars and Moon, protect him! Let him live!

She rose quickly from the bed, picking up the remote control for the television and turning it on. Kiera needed a distraction and Ransom needed to take her own mind off her new problems. It didn't help that she had no idea what to say to Kiera. She could blather platitudes all night long but that would only get on Kiera's nerves. Kiera was a realist and empty assurances wouldn't help her any.

She flipped from one channel to the next, looking for anything that might serve to keep them relaxed, but nothing was working.

Finally Kiera couldn't stand it any longer. “I'm going to take a shower.” It wasn't a fight but it was something to do. Waiting had never been her strong suit.

Ransom vaguely heard the water running, her own thoughts traveling a vicious circle. Maybe she could stay. She could tell Horus the truth and pray he was strong enough to accept it. She started shaking her head as soon as the notion entered her thoughts. No, that was certain to only hurt him. He would never find a way to forgive her when she couldn't forgive herself. There was no real option. She had to leave. Allowing him to fall deeper in love with her or think there could be a future for them by staying at his side was the cruelest thing she could do. He had called her mate. Heaven and Stars ... mate! She shook her head, as if by doing so she could lose the memory of that word. He would find out about what she had done eventually, she wasn't a good enough actress to continue the charade, and then his heart would be broken. Again. She wiped the sudden tears from her eyes as she cursed Hector and Tam. Tam had been weak for too long; and Hector ... She knew now why Hector had wanted Horus distracted. He knew about the bullets. Ransom was sure of it now. Hector was the traitor they were looking for. And only she knew it.

That was the answer! She had to tell Kiera the truth. She would tell Kiera everything. When the Mistress got out of her shower, she would sit her down and tell her everything. How Hector had bought her services. How Hector wanted Horus distracted. The tears came again but she brushed them away. That's what she would do. It was the only way to leave with any shred of dignity. Then she would leave, and she would let Kiera tell Horus the truth. It had to be that way. Ransom just wasn't strong enough to do it on her own.

The vibration of her phone drew her attention only momentarily. With a huff of impatience, she jerked the phone out of her pocket and slammed it onto the table. Her father could wait, damn him. She cursed him again and the weakness that had put her in the position she was in. She heard the water turn off and rose to make coffee in the small pot provided by the hotel. She would make a pot of coffee, and she would explain everything to Kiera. Then she would leave. Running a hand through her hair she groaned in frustration. They had already used the packets provided by the hotel. She placed a quick call down to the front desk and the clerk assured her someone would be up immediately.

Kiera stepped out of the bathroom freshly dressed in a clean pair of jeans, and a soft white blouse. The shower looked like it had done wonders to help Kiera's mood and Ransom was glad. At least now she wouldn't be afraid to tell Kiera the truth.

"Kiera ... Mistress,” Ransom started, “we need to talk."

Ransom didn't get a chance to anything more before she was interrupted by a knock on the door. Kiera raised a questioning eyebrow to Ransom.

"I ordered coffee.” Ransom said in a rush to reassure her friend. “For our talk."

"Good idea.” Kiera flashed Ransom a grin and went to answer the door. Kiera simply assumed Ransom was still frightened about the prospect of being Horus’ mate and wanted a chance to talk about it. As she pulled the door open, she started to thank the bell boy when she realized exactly who she was looking at.

She had only a moment to react, a split second lost to the pure shock of finding Hector and Carlos leering at her. Hector rushed into her critical fighting space at once, grabbing her wrist and pulling her toward him. With his free hand he shoved a white cloth over her face. Kiera drew in a breath to scream, only to discover the sickeningly sweet scent on the cloth too late. Carlos moved into the room beside Hector, crowding her body with his and eliminating any chance she had to fight back.

Ransom was frozen in shock at the sudden appearance of the intruders. She recognized Hector at once, not understanding what he was doing or what was going on. “Kiera!” Ransom screamed out her friend's name as she rushed forward to help. Carlos caught Ransom easily enough, wrapping one arm around her waist and pinning her arms to her sides. As she struggled in his grip she soon realized she was no match for a male Lycan in his prime. “Good job.” Carlos said with a twisted grin. “You just paid off Tam's debt in spades."

"No!” Ransom screamed in outrage. She watched horrified as the Mistress’ eyes slid closed.

Ransom looked down at Carlos’ arm wrapped around her waist and suddenly, fervently wished that Horus was there. She was scared to death of these two and she had no idea what was going on.

"What do you mean? Where is my father?"

"We'll take you to your father now. He's pretty pleased with everything you've done for us the last few days. You certainly helped us find her a lot easier than we would have ever been able to on our own.” Hector had already thrown Kiera's limp body over his shoulder. “Now we've got to get out of here."

Carlos moved his arm from Ransom's waist to grab her wrist in an iron grip and they moved out of the hotel room at a brisk pace. Carlos pulled the door partially closed behind them, not caring about leaving it ajar. Hector led them down the stairs, avoiding the elevator and the more traveled routes in the hotel. When they got to the main floor, Carlos moved ahead of Hector and made sure the route was clear, then nodded sharply once and gestured his brother forward.

They slipped through a laundry room, weaving their way to the back entrance of the hotel, reserved only for employees. They didn't want the front desk clerk to be aware of anything amiss. Hector carried Kiera's limp body over his shoulder and Carlos dragged Ransom along beside him. Ransom was walking as if she were in a daze. None of this was making sense! Her father wouldn't have told these men where to find her. He just wouldn't do that. What did they want with Kiera? Oh by the Heavens and Stars! The Hunt Mark! The bounty! Oh, heavens no! Is that what he meant by paying off Tam's debt? Oh, no! Oh, Horus, help me!

Ransom forced herself to calm down. This was not what she was involved in. She wanted no part of what they were going to do, but right now, they were talking like she was one of them. Carlos opened the door to an alley that ran behind the hotel. A large white van was sitting just outside the door with the engine running. Quickly they were loaded in, Carlos not releasing his hold on her until Hector had the van in motion.

Kiera had trusted her. Amris had trusted her. Moon and Stars, Horus trusted her with his heart! Hector's eyes were on the road in front and Carlos was in the back with Kiera. Neither one of them noticed the sudden change that came into Ransom's eyes when she made her decision.

She was afraid. More afraid than she had ever been when she had been deceiving Horus, because she knew he would never hurt her. She had no doubt, just by the pressure and the waves of anger she was feeling from their proximity, that these men would feel nothing if they had to hurt her. None of that mattered, though. She would make up for what had happened tonight, and she would do whatever it took to get Kiera to safety.

Horus looked up at the warehouse Marco had led them to on the outskirts of the city. It looked to have been long abandoned. There were even several windows broken out and boarded up. “You can't be serious."

"Yep, this is the place.” Marco said from the back seat. Horus gave him a skeptical look in the rear view mirror and Marco lifted his hands defensively “What? It's not like they're going to put out a sign ‘Silver Bullets Made Here'."

Amris turned in the seat to face Marco, wanting to see the man's eyes directly. “This better not be a set up or you're going to have two pissed off bitches tearing your ass apart. Trust me. If you think I'm scary, you don't even want to imagine what they're capable of."

"I gave you my word. You think humans can't be trusted or something?” Marco straightened in his seat, jutting out his chin. As far as he was concerned, that was all that needed to be said.

"It's now or never.” Horus said, his skin crawling. Something was off and he couldn't put his finger on just what it was. It wasn't the warehouse. It was somewhere outside himself, but within him at the same time. Slightly disconcerted, he shook himself to try and be rid of the feeling.

"Let's go.” Amris gave the command and the others followed without question. This was his show. Horus was there to back him up, but it really wasn't his neck on the line. Amris had everything to lose if this turned out badly so Horus had no problems with giving Amris the lead. Amris would be in charge and run the show from here.

They were met at the door by a beefy man that Marco identified as Ed, who eyed them skeptically. “They're setting up a new facility and want to see the set up here. They already have an order for ten boxes we need to see if you can fill for them.” Marco explained keeping to the cover story they had developed in the SUV. After a long moment Ed stepped back and let them into the building.

The scent of gunpowder and molten metal was overpowering. Evidently, whoever ran the place had never heard of ventilation. “Wait here, I'll get Sam.” Ed instructed before he vanished behind a row of boxes into the interior of the building.

It hit Amris like a freight train. Suddenly he found himself overwhelmed by emotions that were not his. Stark terror and anger mixed with confusion, which led to frustration and finally hopelessness. His breath caught in his throat and he had to lean against the wall to support himself. A cold sweat broke out on his face and he struggled to remain upright.

"Is he sick?” Marco seemed a long way off, his voice wavering. He sounded wary, as if afraid of catching something alien to the human race.

As suddenly as it had hit, the sensation vanished completely. What had moments before been a raging maelstrom of fear and hopelessness had suddenly become an emotional void. There was nothing now. Not even the constant buzz of the connection between he and Kiera that he had grown use to since their Bonding. Now, there was a blank. An emptiness, as if a part of his very soul had been cut out.

"Amris?” Horus gripped his friend's shoulder tightly in concern.

Amris looked around, trying to see straight and force his vision into focus. He saw Horus there standing beside him and just behind Horus was Marco, the Norm who had brought them here. “It's Kiera ... the Bond..."

Horus’ eyes widened in fear. Kiera was with Ransom! Is that what he had been feeling? Was his own anxiety because the women were in danger?

He turned to Marco and quickly made a decision based on what he had seen of the human so far. “We need your help, Marco. Don't ask for an explanation, because I can't give you one, but I need you to get to our hotel.” Horus jotted the hotel address and name, as well as their room number on a scrap of paper from his pocket.

"Get there as quickly as you can, and then call me at this number.” Horus added his cell phone number to the information then gave the paper to Marco. “Tell me if the women are still there, or what you find."

Marco looked at Amris’ pale and sweaty brow then back to Horus. He had just been given an incredible amount of trust by these creatures and he didn't really understand why. He didn't care, he was actually thankful. He really didn't want to be on the receiving end of what they were about to dish out now.

"All right, Room 416. Then call you on this number."

Horus nodded once, and then Marco was gone.

As soon as Marco left, Horus was in front of his friend. “Is she—?"

Amris shook his head. “No. I would know that. There's just nothing there. Not a dream; not a thought; not a feeling. Just nothing. And before she was gone ... Horus, she was terrified. Kiera was terrified."

Horus wanted to feel for his friend, but his only thought was that Ransom had been with Kiera in the hotel. If Kiera was terrified, Ransom had to be just as frightened, if not more. She wasn't use to the ugly side of their lives like Kiera was. What could possibly terrify two Lycan bitches so badly it broke a Bond?

"Amris, we need to finish this ... we need to shut this down. Marco will let us know what he finds.” Horus hated having to think like a Pack Master now, but had no choice. They had to try and put aside their concern for their mates now and deal with the task at hand. This factory was a threat to their Packs and their future; and as much as he and Amris might wish now that someone else were available to deal with it, he understood at once all they had was each other.

"Sam is on the phone with the Vegas group. They have some ready if we can't fill the order here. We've had some delays.” Ed was saying as he came back around the corner. Stopping cold he narrowed his eyes. “Where's Marco?"

"Family emergency.” Horus said shortly. It was at least partially true, he just didn't say whose family. “Show us what ya got.” He moved in front of Amris, keeping Ed's attention on him while Amris fought to pull himself together.

"Didn't think Marco had no family left.” Ed frowned. Horus could see the wheels turning in the large man's mind. He must have decided it was safe after all because he turned and said “Follow me."

"You mentioned a group in Vegas. How many operations like this do you guys have?” Horus asked falling into step behind Ed. He heard Amris taking up a position behind him and was comforted that his friend was at least functioning on a basic level.

"Not counting this one and the Nevada guys, there are two more manufacturing groups. We got others working on new designs so the bullets don't cost so much to make. They're expensive suckers, but then you must know that already.” Ed pushed through a large door and what Horus saw stopped his heart for a moment. There were several long tables set end to end in three rows, running the length of the warehouse. From his limited knowledge and experience, it seemed to Horus that the process started at one end of the warehouse and proceeded down the line to end at the other. It was difficult to separate the different stages of preparation as every inch of table space was covered by equipment.

"We've only been given estimates of the cost. What makes them so expensive?” Amris asked hoarsely, trying to keep involved and aware. The emptiness ate at him, making him even edgier no matter how valiantly he tried to ignore it.

"He couldn't explain it if his life depended on it.” A large balding man joined them. “Ed, go back to the door. I've got it from here.” Dismissing Ed completely, he smiled to Amris and Horus. “I'm Sam. Nice to meet you.” He held out a beefy hand to shake which Horus took with an inward flinch. If they didn't have to learn as much as possible about the operation, he would just as soon tear the man's arm off and beat him with it, as shake his hand.

"What you have here is a plastic gel bullet. The tip shatters on impact, releasing the silver. The silver is treated to remain in its liquid form, since that disperses faster into the bloodstream. It destroys any tissue it comes in contact with. Once it reaches the heart, bye bye target. No matter where the shot hits, it's a guaranteed kill.” Sam explained pulling a completed bullet out of his pocket to roll it between his fingers as he spoke.

Horus put his hand out for the bullet, and registered Sam's split second of surprise. Sam placed the bullet in Horus’ hand and watched as the big man rolled it in his fingers, nodding at it as it reflected the light.

When Horus put it in his pocket, Sam didn't say anything, but simply shrugged. “So what else were you guys interested in?"

"Well,” Horus asked as if he had just thought of it, “once we start using this stuff, the targets are going to react pretty quickly. How well does this work against, say ... ballistic cloth?"

Sam nodded and frowned. “Yeah, we thought of that. It's actually shit against any decent protection. The gel cap explodes too quickly and let's face it, unless you're susceptible to liquid silver and you get splashed, not much more will happen."

"Okay, so, we were ordered to get a fifth site up and running by the end of the month, and were told to come here and see your set up. We've got to know what to order and get prepped.” Horus was explaining. “But we weren't told why we should check you guys out. What's so special about Detroit?"

"Other than being the first one to get an operational product out?” Sam beamed with pride. “Other than being the first one to get fifty of these little bastards shipped on time? Other than that, nothing much."

Horus nodded. “That explains it.” He smiled. “Efficient and productive."

He gave Sam a knuckle tap. Just a couple boys swapping gun stories. “How far back are the others from catching up?"

Sam started guiding them back deeper into the warehouse, pointing at the presses in operation, and the large vat of molten silver that they were keeping simmering. “Well, Vegas was close, but they just had some kind of production setback, so the Motor City is still number one. Miami just got going last week, and they don't have anything yet even produced. But the boys in Boston have already shipped they're first box of twenty samples."

Sam stopped suddenly and looked Amris and Horus up and down. “Where are you guys setting up?"

"Hollywood, baby!” Horus chuckled. “We're setting up just outside the City of Angels."

"Cool.” Sam nodded, satisfied.

"We're pretty small, though, compared to this. We've only got four techs, and a couple security guys."

"Well, you should be okay. Our whole operation is right here, and so are all our techs. We've only got a half dozen, and we still manage okay."

"Mind if I take a look at your set up? I really want to get this right. I don't want any of my people killed when the shit hits the fan.” Horus tried to ignore the buzzing of his skin though it was difficult to push aside the growing anxiety as the minutes ticked by without word from Marco. He wanted to close his eyes and focus, to see if he could amplify what he was sensing to determine for sure if it was Ransom or not. There just wasn't time or opportunity.

"Sure.” Sam turned to lead them back through the warehouse and into the office. “I have the reports of the field tests too. They just came in this morning. You won't believe how effective these little babies are. Total kill every time, none taking longer than two hours, regardless of where the hit was made."

"Field tests?” Amris repeated, his mind whirling. That's all Adric had been to these people? A field test? Kiera had been damn near destroyed by their successful experiment and this man was delighting in sharing the information with those he thought were fellow conspirators. Amris had to stop and take several deep breaths to reign himself in. The pure fury raging through him threatened to kill any hope of more information, and Sam's loose tongue was giving them a gold mine.

Horus’ cell phone went off and both Amris and Horus looked at it fearfully for a moment. Clearing his throat Horus flipped it open. “Yeah, talk to me.” He said knowing on an instinctive level it had to be Marco.

"I'm in room 416 and there's no one here. The door was open when I got here. Doesn't look like there's been a fight, but the room is empty.” Marco reported quickly, standing in the deserted main room of the hotel suite. “Suitcases are still here and someone's cell phone ... um...” Horus could hear him moving. “Yeah, got a purse here too. Don't look like nothing is gone, just no women."

"Right. Gotcha.” Horus felt the blood draining from his face and he looked at Amris, his expression alone confirming the Grey Master's worst fear. “They're gone.” Horus said closing the phone, momentarily forgetting Sam completely. Fear for Ransom's fate shot through him. She was gone. She was somewhere with Kiera, and Kiera had been afraid. By the Moon, what could frighten Kiera? He didn't know her very well but from what he had seen of her and the reputation he knew she lived by Horus couldn't imagine what might frighten the Huntress.

Amris’ vision was clouded by a red haze. He roared with the ferocity of his overflowing anger as he leapt on a sputtering and shocked Sam.

Amris couldn't contain his fury or his control, and when he slammed Sam against the wall, it was in his full hybrid shape. His claws tore at Sam's throat, and the last thing Sam saw before he died were Amris’ blood red eyes set in the black mask of fury and hatred. The white teeth closed over his head and then the jaws closed and crushed his skull like a grape.

Horus shifted and followed Amris’ lead into the main room. Sam had been killed so quickly he hadn't even had a chance to yell or scream. So when the two shifted Lycans burst onto the scene with the men in white coats, they didn't stand a chance.

Claws tore and cut flesh, and teeth ripped and crunched bone. Blood flew in gouts and spurts until the walls were stained in a patchwork of crimson. The screams would have been horrible to hear or remember, but Amris and Horus weren't interested in leaving any survivors behind. A bullet smashed into the wall just above Amris’ head. Had he not lowered his jaws at that precise moment to rip the guts out of a white-coated technician, it would have taken the top of his head off.

Horus had the scent of the weapon now, and in a powerful bound, crossed the room to land with his full weight on the security guard's chest. With over three hundred pounds of enraged muscle landing on him, the guard's chest caved in like brittle straw. Horus’ claws tore at the guard's neck stifling his screaming. The head was flung through the air to land in the vat of bubbling silver.

All too soon, Amris realized there were no more technicians to kill. Their initial attack had been so swift and merciless there was nothing around them now but the broken and bleeding corpses of their enemies. It wasn't enough.

The Lycan Masters went through the factory on a rampage, their minds needing to destroy anything at hand to quell the rage that losing their women had brought upon them. Tables were hurled through the air. Presses filled with gunpowder were smashed and their pieces scattered across the room. The containers of the chemicals that were used to make the gel caps for the molten silver were burst open and flung through the air, their contents spilling onto the floor.

Horus reveled in the wanton destruction as much as Amris. These norms deserved their fate. This place needed ... deserved to be destroyed. He needed to rescue Ransom.

By the Stars, Ransom! In his blinding rage, he had almost forgotten the cause of it all. When Horus looked over to see his friend tearing some metal shelves from the wall, he was certain Amris was already lost to the haze.

Then he remembered the molten silver ... and the gunpowder ... and the sick, caustic smell of the chemicals.

"Amris!” Horus rushed over to his friend and seized him around the chest, pinning his arms to his sides at the same time. “We need to get out of here! Now!"

In his fury, Amris struggled against the hold. He howled at the thought of being restrained when all he wanted to do was make something bleed! Rend, rip, and tear were the only thoughts he could understand. His heart was broken and he couldn't get the pain to stop. No matter how much he let it out, the hole in his soul would not ease. With a roar of anguish he jerked again against Horus’ powerful grip, but the Weret Master's arms were wrapped around him like steel bands. He could hear Horus talking to him but the words made no sense.

"This place is going to blow! We have to get out and find our mates! Ransom is missing! Kiera needs you to find her!” It was all Horus could think of to say, the only thing that might pierce the bloodlust controlling his ally.

Kiera. He had to get to Kiera. The name tore through the haze of his thoughts like a beacon, granting him the ability for a moment at least, to bring the beast under control. With a shudder, he stopped struggling and nodded to Horus.

"I'm ... back. I...” Amris shifted back for a moment, sweat covering his face in a light, damp sheen. “I'm okay. Let's get out of here.” It was all he could manage to say. The moment Horus released him Amris was bounding for the door with Horus hot on his heels.

They were three blocks away from the bullet plant when a large explosion shook the ground. Neither man noticed as they were both totally focused on getting back to the hotel as quickly as possible.

Kiera felt heavy, as if her mind were trapped in quicksand, clawing her way through layers of heavy grit to consciousness. Her eyes opened slowly, bright light drilling through the sockets into her brain. Her body felt like it was on fire. She whimpered softly at the pain.

"Careful.” She heard a soft voice, felt a hand on her own. “Just take it easy."

Cracking her eyes open, she saw Ransom hovering over her, moving to block out the light from the single bare bulb hanging from the ceiling. She tried to speak but it came out a hoarse croak. Licking her lips to wet them, she tried again. “Where are we?"

"We're in the basement of a house on the outskirts of the city. I don't know where exactly.” Ransom answered quietly. “Are you alright? Does it hurt?"

"My head is going to explode, and my skin feels like it's on fire.” Kiera groaned. “Other than that I think I'm intact.” She shifted, pushing herself up off the ground into a sitting position. Her arms and head were heavy and it took a major effort just to get upright. She pushed her legs out in front of her and leaned back against the wall. Her eyes were adjusting to the light and she was now able to keep her eyes open for several seconds at a time.

"No, I mean...” Ransom was at a loss for words. She had no idea how to apologize, much less how to begin to explain any of this to Kiera. With a gentle grip on Kiera's hand, she raised it for Kiera to see the large manacle on it.

Kiera blinked slowly, trying to process what she was seeing. Her memory flashed back to the chains that had been in the back of Carlos’ SUV at the farmhouse so many weeks ago. The silver filaments winked at her in the light as they twined and twisted about the iron chains. She leaned forward to get a better look, only to be brought up short. Bringing up her hands, she realized the twin cuff was on the other wrist and her fingers confirmed what she already suspected. A thick, metal collar attached to the wall behind her circled her neck.

Ransom swallowed back the tears forming as she witnessed Kiera's dawning understanding of her predicament. She saw the paralyzing fear that filled the Grey Mistress’ eyes when she realized the full extent of her captivity.

"I'm sorry ... I can't get them off. I tried.” She couldn't help but feel guilty at her own freedom compared to Kiera in chains. They had been locked in the room together, but only Kiera had been placed in the chains. Apparently Ransom wasn't seen as any kind of threat to Hector or Carlos. Ransom at least had the freedom to move about their shared prison. With the chains on Kiera as short as they were, the Grey Mistress wouldn't have even that luxury.

The door rattled and opened and Hector and Carlos stepped into the room.

Hector smiled, and this time his excitement and pleasure touched his eyes. “Oh good, you're awake. Now we can have some fun. You can thank your little friend there for everything, she led us straight to you."

"No.” Ransom denied immediately, then she remembered the messages sent to her father. He must have told them that she was with a Mistress, but how could they have possibly known ... It didn't matter now. Whatever she had done, and whatever the reason for it, she had to accept responsibility for her actions. “No, that's not right."

Ransom turned to look Kiera in the eye as she made her confession. “I told my father ... I didn't think ... I didn't...” Kidnapping or hurting Kiera had never been part of the deal. Her mission was Horus. Kiera wasn't even supposed to be involved. Whirling on the brothers, she growled. “It was only supposed to be Horus. I was only supposed to be with Horus. She's not a part of this. My father said..."

Hector simply kept smiling. “Who gives a fuck what your father said?” Then he started laughing at her obvious distress. “Let me fill you in on something, Ransom, you little whore. You've never been talking to your father.” He pulled out a small cell phone from his pocket and tossed it over to her.

Ransom recognized it as her father's at once.

"Your old sire is quite the piece of work. I'm not surprised he raised a little whore like you. I just gave Horus the fuck of his life ... how much is that worth?” Hector shook his head in disgust and dismissed Ransom totally before turning to Kiera.

"So, Kiera, I'll bet you never thought it would be a simple whore that would bring you down did you?” Hector couldn't keep the chuckle from his voice. “Did you know that the bounty on your head has gone up in the last few days?” He laughed. “It seems everybody who wants a piece of that prize has been watching the Brown County core, waiting for a chance to get to you, but the defenses there are so tight, the bounty has climbed to take the extra risk into account. Khefris, that dutiful little mongrel, has been bringing food in to the main house every day. He'll go in and spend a few hours in there, then come out ranting and raving about your impossible demands.” He laughed again. “I don't know how much you two are paying him but it's not enough."

"Hell, most of my own people are still in Brown County, too. I was on my way there myself until the little slut here told me you were in Detroit."

Ransom's head jerked up. “No ... I didn't ... it wasn't me ... it ... I was talking to my father.” Even with the truth of the matter before her, Ransom couldn't believe what she'd done. “I was ... I was supposed to be talking with my father.” Ransom hung her head and couldn't stop the tears. It didn't matter now that Horus loved her or that she loved him. She was exactly what Hector had called her. She felt small, useless and ashamed. She didn't deserve to be in the same room as the Grey Pack Mistress and the fact that she now knew she was wholly responsible for what had happened was a weight on her she couldn't bear. She almost collapsed in the corner in shame, but there was still one person she needed to see; to seek his forgiveness.

Ransom lifted her head, her tears obvious now to everyone in the room. “Please ... where is my father?"

Hector spun on her. “We own your father! And we own you.” He stepped over to her and slapped her across the face, snapping her head to the side. “There. That's another two hundred from his account. If you let me smack you again, I'll make it an even five hundred."

"You touch me again I'll take that hand off.” Ransom growled low, her eyes blazing.

Hector ignored her threat and hit her again, and again, the blows hard and fast. “Didn't you learn your lesson yet, you whore? By owning your father, we own you. You'll do what we tell you to or you pay the price. Literally."

Ransom fell back, trying to protect her face from the worst of the blows. She was not a fighter and her meager defenses were no match for Hector's speed and strength. Already she could feel a bruise forming under her left eye, and she was terrified that he may do worse to her.

"Leave her alone” Kiera's voice was low and deadly. The flame in her eyes that Hector saw when he turned to face her made him take a step back. Even chained as she was, Kiera had to laugh at Hector's cowardice.

She had heard enough to at least begin piecing things together. Hector and Carlos had used Ransom's love for her father to convince her to do their bidding. She didn't quite understand all the talk about money and debts owed, but she would find out once she had a moment alone with Ransom. Whatever Ransom had done or was responsible for, though, she didn't deserve to be whipped like a dog. It was fairly obvious to Kiera now that Ransom had been a dupe in all of this. She didn't understand their interest in Horus, or why Hector felt the need to send Ransom after Amris’ friend, but maybe being Amris’ friend was all it took to make him a target.

"You want a piece of this bitch?” Hector leered at Kiera. Hector had gotten his courage back, knowing Kiera could hardly hurt him chained as she was.

"Yeah I do.” Kiera flashed strong white teeth, snapping them together at him as she lunged at him. The chains brought her up short with a jangle.

Carlos laughed from the doorway. He had been silently enjoying the show up to now. “You always were an arrogant bitch, Kiera, and look at you now. I wish your mate could see you now. Ah, but he can, can't he? In a sense. He can feel everything. Do you have any idea how crazy it can make someone, to feel things and have no idea what's next or when it will stop?” Carlos started laughing at the idea. “The great and mighty Amris Grey. He's probably going through hell right now. Not that he doesn't deserve it."

Kiera froze, her eyes wide and horrified. She hadn't considered what her captivity would do to Amris through their Bond. Every itch, every tingle, every spark of pain that she was feeling, he had to be feeling it too. However, just as the Bond sent negative energy, she knew by personal experience it could send positive energy as well. Her heart went out to her mate then, and she focused on her deep and overflowing love for him. If he had to feel something, let it be that.

Carlos moved further into the room, looked down at Ransom and then at Hector. “What do we do with this bitch? Is she worth anything to us any more?"

Ransom turned her head, stunned at the violent undertone of the question. “What? What do you mean?” Her hand still touched the side of her face, where the heat of Hector's blows still stung. “You said you'd take me to my father."

Hector ignored her and shrugged. “So far, she seems pretty much suited for only one thing.” He looked down at Ransom on the floor on her knees and grunted. “What do you say, Ransom? You want to work off a few more hundred off your father's account? I know I'm not Horus..."

"You're right!” She spat at him. “You're not Horus! You're nothing like him, and you never could be!"

Hector's face clouded over. “Then I guess there's no sense keeping you around.” Hector stepped over to Ransom and grabbed her by the hair. A second later he had shifted enough of his body that his clawed arm was poised and ready to slice through her throat without hesitation. It didn't bother him to have to kill the girl, after all with Kiera finally under his control, it wouldn't be long before Amris himself was dead. He was already Leader of the Lunatier Pack and soon enough Mastery of the Grey Pack would be his. The little bitch was nothing now.

Ransom knew this was it. She'd made a horrible mistake. She had allowed her feelings for Horus to make her fight back, and instead of being able to free Kiera, now she was going to die uselessly. Until she had an inspiration that stayed Hector's hand. “And when the Gathering reads Marco's statement, signed in his blood, I'll meet you on the other side."

"What? What statement?” Hector was shaken. He hadn't heard about any of this.

"Horus found Marco. He talked to him. He didn't beat him. He didn't even threaten him.” The pain from his grip on her hair only served to give Ransom courage. As she told Hector how Horus had gotten Marco to explain what had happened, she understood even more what Horus had done, and although she didn't think it possible, she loved him even more for it. The statement was the key to stopping Hector. Because of his size, everyone ignored the keen, sharp wit in the Weret Master. Horus was so smart, and by making Marco write a statement, the evidence would always be there, even if Hector turned on Marco later.

When she was done her story, Hector asked, “So where is this statement now?” He lowered his arm, bringing it to his side until he could figure out what was going on, and what he needed to do next.

"Master Amris gave it to me.” Ransom said truthfully. “Because he trusted me.” She added softly.

Hector laughed loud at that, his laughter coming out in sharp barks. “Proof he's a fool. Give it to me.” He put out his hand, but Ransom was shaking her head.

"I can't.” She deliberately looked away from Kiera, knowing if she looked at the Pack Mistress she wouldn't be able to keep up her story. “I put it in the safe at the hotel. Only two people can recover it. Me or Kiera. If you let her go, I'll take you to it and give it to you."

Hector laughed and let go of Ransom's hair. “You are a feisty little slut, aren't you?” Then his open palm came down with such force it drove Ransom to the ground.

Kiera yelled out screaming at him to stop. “Leave her alone!"

Hector didn't need to hit Ransom again. She was cowed and he knew it. “You're going to go get that statement, and bring it back here, and then, maybe, I'll let you rejoin your father instead of killing you.” Hector had control of the bitch, and he knew it.

"What?” Ransom was stunned.

"Go get the statement, and bring it back here so we can read it. If it's what you say it is, it will buy you your life.” Hector spoke slowly as if she were a dim witted child.

Ransom was shocked. Suddenly all her plans and thoughts were washed away. She had intended to use the statement as a weapon against them, a lever to try and get them to release Kiera. Then she would give them the statement. But now ... now she didn't know what to do. She had only managed to delay her own death and warn Hector that the statement existed. She was no further ahead in freeing Kiera than she had been.

Hector was about to add more, when his cell phone rang. He looked at the number, flipped the phone open, and smiled at Kiera when he answered. “Amris here. What's up?"

Kiera flinched visibly. Her neck and wrists were starting to burn and itch though she tried to ignore them. The silver in the cuffs was irritating her, making her weaker, as if it drew the very life out of her simply by the contact to her skin. The heat that had been overwhelming her seemed, if anything, to get stronger still. Hector frowned, moving off to the side as he spoke into the phone, his voice much lower now.

Carlos stepped past Hector, crowding Ransom's body with his own. “If you even think about double crossing us, your father is dead. Keep that in mind, slut. He's been passed out drunk for days, it won't take much to kill him."

Ransom paled, her body trembling visibly. As a witness to Ransom's treatment by these men, Kiera couldn't help but feel for the woman. Carlos and Hector were playing her like a finely tuned instrument, making her dance to the tune of their choosing. She hadn't really had time to figure out how Hector and Carlos had found her, and after learning that Ransom had been the one responsible, she should have been angry at the other woman. She should have been ready to simply tear her apart. Yet, when she had seen with her own eyes how Ransom herself had been deceived and manhandled, all of Kiera's anger vanished.

"Oh, I forgot we froze your bank account the other day.” Carlos’ smile was wide. “Well, here's twenty bucks. Get a cab and make it snappy. When you get back, we'll find someone for you to fuck to pay it off.” Carlos shoved the money into Ransom's hand and pushed her toward the door. “Better get moving. Hector doesn't like to wait. When he has to, he gets downright mean."

Ransom's eyes filled with tears as she dashed out of the room through the open door, Carlos’ laughter following her. She hated leaving Kiera alone with the two sires, but she just didn't know what else to do.

As she sat in the back of the cab on the way to the hotel her mind spun in circles, trying to find a solution. In the end, she kept coming back to the decision she should have made from the start. She would find Horus and Amris and bring them back with her. It didn't matter that it would mean her own death, or worse, that Horus would abandon her when he learned the truth. She was nothing compared to saving Kiera. Her only hope was that Horus and Amris would then help her find her father before it was too late. Surely two Masters could track down a lone, drunk Lycan.

Amris and Horus couldn't get to the hotel fast enough. They were both out of the SUV before it even rolled to a stop and up to their room in minutes. Both would be thankful later there were no norms in the stairwell to witness their gore splattered clothing or their incredible speed in getting to the fourth floor.

Marco was sitting in a chair by the window when they burst in, his face going pale at the blood covering them both. “No one's here.” He repeated needlessly. He had to say something, just to make sure they still saw him as ally and not a target.

Amris stood in the doorway where Kiera's scent was the strongest. He closed his eyes and inhaled, forcing his mind to focus enough to sort through the myriad of scents to pull out the ones he wanted most. “Hector and Carlos.” He said after a long moment. It was all that needed to be said for Horus to understand. “How the hell did they find her?"

Horus dashed into the bathroom connecting the two rooms, looking for any sign of Ransom. He knew she had to be there. She was nothing to Hector or Carlos. Kiera was the one they were after but Ransom wouldn't have gone without a fight. By the Moon, what had she told him the other night? After that fight outside the strip club? Her first fight. She was so out of her depth.

"Ransom. Why would they take Ransom?” Numbly Horus moved into the room, turning in a slow circle. “She's nothing to them. They didn't have to take her."

Amris wasn't even listening to his friend. Somewhere out in the dark, Kiera was trapped and alone. He had sworn to be there for her, and he had failed. Then something Horus was saying made it through. “It wasn't her they wanted. Ransom has the statement. Marco's statement, and our proof that there's a traitor in the Packs. Ransom has it."

Horus’ head snapped up. “No. She doesn't. She left it here.” He moved like a bullet straight to the desk drawer and yanked it open. He had seen her put it in there earlier, and though it seemed so insignificant now in the light of the missing women, he checked on it anyway. Maybe they could use it to get the women back.

When he opened the drawer, the words on the top page of the notepad leapt out at him. He didn't even bother moving the pad aside to check for the statement underneath it. The words bored into his brain in Ransom's familiar hand. The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. Stunned, he could only stare at that one sentence, reading it over and over again, as if the repetition could change the words. The handwriting was hers. He recognized it from her earlier note. But, this ... it couldn't be true.

Horus reached down to the pad of paper and picked it up with a clenched fist. The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. He sat on the bed, his weight just bearing him down as if his legs were unable to hold him any longer. The woman you know as Ransom is a lie.

It was a lie. He closed his eyes and shook his head. It wasn't a lie. It couldn't be a lie. Not again.

Amris was on the other side of the room, trying to regain his own focus. He couldn't smell any blood, and what he did smell was the cloying aftertaste of some kind of drug, or an anesthetic. Now he knew why he had been dizzy in the warehouse. While he and Horus had been busy there, Hector and Carlos had been busy here.

"Horus, what is that? Is it the statement?” Amris could feel nothing but the void that should have been Kiera. He needed his friend to help him now, just as he had at the warehouse, but Horus seemed to be confused, unfocused. “Horus?"

"It was all a lie...” Horus’ voice was barely above a whisper.

"What are you talking about?"

Horus never read past the first line. He put the pad of paper down and slowly rose to his feet. He felt edgy, and panicked, and frightened, and he didn't know why. It was like the soft, dull roar he had been feeling since last night when he had held Ransom, was finally breaking through. He ran his fingers through his hair, trying to understand, to come to grips with everything that was falling apart around him. By the Moon, he just wanted to know the truth for a change. He closed his eyes and saw her face and her smile. At first, it was Ransom's face in his mind. And then it was Janise. And then it was Ransom again. And then he didn't know who he saw.

"Son of a bitch.” Amris had found Ransom's phone and turned it on.

"What?” Horus was at his side at once, peering over the Grey Master's shoulder at the luminous screen. “What is it?"

"Your little lover ... it was her."

Horus shook his head, refusing to believe it. “No. It wasn't her.” The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. Horus took the phone out of Amris’ hand and paged to the last message. It was from someone named Tam.

[Open the door.]

No no no no no. Horus couldn't believe it. He didn't want to believe it. The woman you know as Ransom is a lie.

He paged to the previous message, not wanting to believe what his eyes were reading.

Ransom: What is my tally?

Tam: $7500.

"She was telling them all along. She was nothing but a little whore.” Amris’ tone was acid. “I trusted her. I trusted you, and I trusted her."

Horus spun on his friend. “Shut the fuck up. She's not a whore!” The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. “She's not..."

Horus turned back to the phone. There had to be something there. Something that would let all of this be explained, somehow. Something that would let that deep aching pain in his chest go away.

Tam: Update?

Ransom: Almost done here. Masters have one more thing to finish tonight. Will be home soon.

Tam: Are you going with them?

Ransom: Mistress and I are staying at the hotel.

Horus hurled the phone from him with a roar of fury he couldn't contain. The device smashed against the wall and shattered into hundreds of pieces. He didn't want to read more. He couldn't read more.

The woman you know as Ransom is a lie.

Amris felt a curious change, then, a shift in energy. He actually looked around him for the source though he knew it came from within. It was a slow, sluggish contact but it was still contact. “Kiera...” he whispered her name. He had to close his eyes again to block out everything but the sensations growing within him.

He had known on a very deep, instinctive level she was still alive, but to actually feel her again was a blessing he couldn't put into words.

A flash of pure fury drove him to his knees. “Oh, she's pissed. Heaven help them.” He gasped, giving Horus an update. It was the first positive sign Amris had that his mate was alright. She was in pain, but she was fighting it, and she was furious. A very good sign indeed.

Horus tried to feel the relief he heard in Amris’ voice but he couldn't feel anything beyond his own pain. Ransom had used him. He had loved her and she had thrown him away like so much garbage for money. She had been with him for money. It was beyond his ability to comprehend it. She had used him and betrayed his friends. Kiera was in the hands of her deadliest enemies, because of Ransom. So lost in his own misery, he only vaguely heard Amris talking.

"I love you too, baby.” Amris whispered as he was overcome by warmth. Tears filled his eyes and he was trying so hard to hold onto her, he barely took notice of them.

"Hey guys.” Marco cleared his throat, drawing their attention to him. “Listen, I hate to bust in on your problems with your ladies and all, but we have to talk. My life ain't gonna be worth a damn when word gets out about what happened at the warehouse."

It took a monumental effort for Horus to switch mental gears and respond to Marco's concern. The norm didn't belong here. The sooner Marco was sent on his way, the sooner he and Amris could plan. “No one was left alive that could identify you were there.” He said after a long moment.

"Great. I kind of figured that much.” Marco sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. “Look, is there anything else you need from me, or can I go home?"

"Go home.” Horus ordered. “We'll let you know when we need you again. Might be a good idea for you to lay low for a while. Maybe leave town ... take a vacation."

"Yeah, I just may do that.” Marco headed for the door. He found it harder than he would have thought possible to leave the two men to their misery. He should have just left, but he couldn't yet. “Is there anything I can do?” He asked one last time, his hand on the doorknob.

"I don't think so.” Horus sighed. No one could help him now. He wanted to kill something all over again. To wrap his hands around Ransom's beautiful little neck and strangle her. To rip and destroy, and just make someone else hurt as badly as he did. Only there was nothing left to take his anger out on. The warehouse that had been so handy earlier was a pile of smoking rubble by now.

After Marco left, the silence stretched between the two men. Each lost in their own thoughts. Amris sat quietly, holding and cherishing each nuance of his connection to Kiera, his proof of life. Horus sat with his back to his friend, wrapped in a blanket of misery and pain of his own design. Time was an empty notion as they both sat there consumed by their own losses.

Neither was prepared for the hotel room door to burst open and a bruised and ruffled Ransom to suddenly appear in the doorway. “You have to come with me,” she said breathlessly, “they have Kiera."

Hector watched as Ransom ran from the room in tears, but he was beyond caring about the little whore. The news he had just received was about as bad as it could be.

"Tell me again what happened.” His voice was tight.

"It's all gone, sir. I let those new guys in, the ones that came with Marco, and then I dashed across the street to pick up a coffee.” Ed paused then added swiftly, “I swear, Mr. Amris, I wasn't gone more than five minutes. When I go back, I hear this screaming, and this yelling ... Mr. Amris, it's like nothing I've heard before. Well, I went back to see what was going on, and that's when I saw the fire."

The voice on the other end quieted down a bit more, before he continued. “I know about them chemicals, Mr. Amris. And the gunpowder. I just had to get out of there. I barely made it out. If I hadn't run when I did, I wouldn't be able to call and tell you what happened."

Hector closed his eyes and ran his hand through his hair. “You said Marco brought these guys there. Did he leave with them?"

"I don't even know if they got out, Mr. Amris. All I saw was a fire, growing out of control, and then it blew up. I've been watching and no one's come out and the fire department is already here."

"Okay, thanks Ed. Go home. I'll call you later if I need you.” Hector hung up then called Carlos over.

"It seems our friend Marco isn't quite as friendly as we thought. First, this statement nonsense, and now this. He brought Amris and Horus straight out to the plant."

"What!?"

"Yeah, and they blew it up. According to Ed it's gone. Nothing left at all.” Hector roared in rage at the ceiling, his head thrown back. “Fucking Masters! I hate those bastards.” He also wanted to be one so badly he could taste it.

"I want you to stay here with her.” Hector said a moment after calming himself. He gave Carlos the keys to the manacles and the collar, adding, “If I run into any trouble, I will call you and have you move her to the other safe house."

"Where are you going?"

"Marco has betrayed me for the last time. It's time I paid him a visit."

Carlos nodded his head, agreeing totally with his brother's assessment of the problem, and its solution. “Give him one for me."

Once Hector had left, Kiera looked up at Carlos. Her eyes were bloodshot and rimmed with red as the silver chains continued to sap her strength and vitality. Hector was the strength of this pair. He was the brains, and the plans, just as he had always been. Kiera knew that, just as she knew that Ransom could never betray her. Somehow, Kiera knew, she had to stay here. She couldn't afford to be moved. Carlos had to be convinced to ignore Hector and stay where they were.

"So. If you have to move me, and Ransom gets back here with the statement, how will she find you?"

"What?” Carlos frowned at her, the question catching him off guard.

"If you have to move me how will Ransom know where to bring Marco's statement? She does know where to go, right?” Kiera repeated the question, needing to prove to herself that Ransom was a pawn.

Carlos laughed. “That little whore?” He shook his head. “She didn't even know it was Hector she was sending all her messages to. And her daddy is already dead.” Carlos laughed again at the expression on Kiera's face. “That stupid bitch don't even know it. We tried out one of those silver bullets on him. Shot him in the foot. Took the tough old bastard almost two hours to die, but it showed the thing still worked.” Carlos smiled at the memory. “He was cursing us like you wouldn't believe, and the whole time that stuff was just running through his veins. Shitty way to die, but hey, whatever works, right? You're still enough of a Huntress to know that."

"You killed a man to test a bullet?” Kiera was sickened at the thought, but all Carlos did was shrug.

"Why not? Why do you think we lined Leo up on your brother? We're not going to waste time and money on something that doesn't work right."

Kiera flushed with anger. “My brother was a test?” Adric ... my brother ... I'm so sorry. I wasn't there to save you. I wish ... I wish I had been faster. She couldn't think about her brother any longer, the pain would consume her if she focused on her loss longer than a brief moment. She had to concentrate on the living, which meant saving herself and, because of what she had witnessed here today, Ransom as well.

"So what is Ransom's part in all this? I don't understand...” Kiera needed to keep Carlos talking. He would tell her everything if she could just stay conscious long enough to hear it.

Carlos just snorted. “Her daddy fell in with some bad wolves. Ended up owing them a bunch of money and Master Quentin is not known for being patient with drunks and gamblers. So our Lord picked up Tam's marker, and got his daughter on our leash as a bonus."

Carlos was warming up to his topic now. After all, there was nothing the vicious killer enjoyed more than bringing someone down to a level beneath him.

"That first night, we got her in with Horus, told her how to dress, how to look. It was all Hector's idea, to make her look like that other tramp, Janise. Hector thought Amris and you were going to be a memory soon enough, so it was going to be time to tear down the alliance between the two Packs. He figured a little bitch in the right place would work wonders at keeping Horus too distracted to care.” Carlos was chuckling. “Worked so well she ended up staying the night. Then the little whore calls us back the following morning, saying she's done. She did it and is ready to come home."

He spat on the ground, not caring about Kiera's look of disgust. “I don't care how good she was, one tumble with Horus ain't worth thirty grand. So we told her that was five hundred bucks off the account, and she's been working at trimming the balance sheet ever since."

"She didn't stand up to you or object to anything? I find that hard to believe.” Kiera kept him talking. His voice was actually helping, keeping her constantly aware of where she was and who she was with. She was able to use it as a distraction herself and remain focused when she only wanted to curl up and sleep. The silver was wearing her down much faster than she anticipated. She had no doubt Ransom had gone to get Horus and Amris, trusting the woman to bring help to rescue her. Kiera just had to give her time.

"Of course she did. Stupid bitch. She got pissy when we told her she had to stay after the first time, but didn't put up too much of a fuss. Daddy said to stay so she did. Damn, Hector taking Tam's phone was a stroke of pure genius. That bitch will do anything for her daddy."

"Second time she tried, she lost damn near a thousand dollars and Daddy was mad for a long time.” Carlos chuckled. “All it took to keep her in line was to keep her thinking she was making Daddy happy. Then Daddy got all concerned about her safety and she told us everything we could have ever wanted to know about Horus’ activities ... including your location and protection. It was really a walk in the park.” He frowned as a sudden thought came to him. “She didn't tell us nothing about the statement, though."

Kiera leaned weakly against the wall. Her legs gave out and she slid down it to sit on the floor. The silver was continuing to have a weakening effect on her and she could already feel the heat and the burn through her skin where the silver touched her. She could see the skin burning off her wrists, and the small puddle of blood forming on the floor underneath her.

Carlos leaned in close, sniffing at her burning skin and hair. “Oh man, you're not gonna croak or anything are you? We need you alive for a little while to make sure Amris feels the pain before we kill you. I fully intend to pay him back big time for that little stunt at the farm, and if you have to suffer too,” he shrugged and laughed, “well, ain't life a bitch?"

"Kill me now and you'll never know if the document Ransom brings back is genuine or a fake.” Kiera countered. “We haven't trusted her for a long time. What exactly do you think Amris gave her? The real document or a fake? Would he trust just anyone with the real thing?"

Carlos had to consider that for a moment. It would be just like Amris to try something tricky like that. The Grey Master had a reputation for fooling his enemies and making them look bad. Figuring there would be no harm in waiting; Carlos sat back on his haunches and nodded his head slowly. “Not that I believe you would tell us if it was a fake, but Hector has other plans for you before you die anyway. So, we wait."

They sat together in silence. Kiera began sweating, her hair plastering itself to the side of her head, as the effects of the silver intensified. For his part, Carlos simply leaned against the opposite wall and glared at her. He checked his watch for about the fifth time, and then went over and checked Kiera's chains again. Her condition was worsening rapidly, and he was concerned about the effect the silver chain was having on her. “Those chains, they're not really hurting you or nothing, right? You're just faking it, right?"

Kiera frowned. “No, I'm not faking, Carlos. These things are killing me. What do you care?"

Carlos frowned and snapped back. “I don't care. Not about you, anyway. But Silas...” Then he shook his head. “No, he'll be okay. He's not a female. He's a Hunter. He'll be fine."

"What do you mean? What about Silas?” Kiera tried to keep her concern from rising, knowing Amris would feel it as well, but mention of the young man she thought was safe, being mentioned in the same breath as the silver chains had her in a panic.

"He actually came to find out if I was the one that tried to poison you, on the day of your Bonding. We've already heard about how it was him that saved you. Guess that wasn't enough for him, though. Couple nights ago he actually challenged me.” Carlos smiled in pride. “He was ready to take me back to Brown County, to face Amris’ justice. What a Hunter!” Then he shrugged. “But, I couldn't really let him do that, could I?"

"Oh Carlos, what did you do? Where is he? Where is Silas?” Kiera was horrified at the thought of Carlos chaining his own kin. It was obvious now Carlos was using whatever warped logic would justify his actions. His own evil had twisted him so completely he was unable to tell the difference between right and wrong any more. “Carlos, if you've chained him like this ... you can't leave him like that. He'll die."

"No, he won't. Silas is stronger than you are. You're just a bitch. Of course you're weaker. He's bigger and better. He'll handle the chains. They may make him a little woozy, but they won't kill him.” Carlos insisted, before he got a dreamy smile, already moving past the thought of his son in the chains. “You should have seen him. He came at me like a house on fire. I've never seen him in better form or condition. You ever see him fight?” He didn't wait for Kiera to answer, choosing to answer for her instead. “Of course you have. Speed was always his strong suit, but he relies on it too much. I keep telling him, You can't be faster than everything. Once in a while a lucky hit gets through. He never listens, though. Not like he should. Look where it got him. But once your Amris is out of the way, Silas can go back to being a Lunatier and stay home where he belongs. He's my son. Mine. Amris can't have him."

Kiera tried to keep her voice reasonable, even though it was coming out as a strained whisper now. “Carlos, if you don't get those chains off Silas, he won't be anyone's son. He will die. Do you understand what I'm telling you?"

Carlos shook his head. “He'll be fine.” Then he grunted. “He was wrong, of course. We Lunatier's didn't have anything to do with poisoning you, other than providing the oleander. Hector just told me who to give the poison to and that little redhead took care of the rest."

Horus couldn't believe she had come back. That she would have the nerve to walk back in the door and ask for their help. “Ransom...” He took a step forward, caught between wanting to wring her neck, and hold her close. He was so torn, wanting to drag her into his arms, her battered face tugging at his heart, but she was the enemy. It was too much to try and process all at once so he asked the first question that came to him. “Why did you do it?"

Ransom could only stare at him in shock for a long moment. She should have expected that her secret was completely blown, but faced with the stark reality of it was suddenly more than she could bear. “It was never supposed to go this far. I was only supposed to be a distraction..."

"A distraction!” Of all the things he had expected her to say, of all the explanations she could have offered, that was not the one he would have expected. He moved to stand in front of her, so that his entire bulk seemed to surround her. “I guess seventy-five hundred dollars would buy a hell of a distraction, wouldn't it?"

Ransom's breath caught in her throat when she heard him quote the amount of the debt that had been paid off.

Amris stepped forward in an effort to get between them. He knew how Horus was feeling and he could understand his friend's anger, but Ransom knew where Kiera was and to Amris nothing else was as important as getting to his mate's side.

"Horus, stand down. We need...” Amris never finished the sentence because Horus spun and slammed the palm of his hand into Amris’ chest so hard the Grey Pack Master was lifted into the air and thrown across the room to crash into the opposite wall. “I'm talking here, Amris!” Then he spun to face Ransom once more. “So? Was it worth it? Was I worth it?"

Ransom jumped, taking a large step back when Horus hit Amris, only to be pulled up short when she bumped into the wall. He's going to kill me. “I...” Ransom was at a total loss of what to say. How the hell did Horus find out about the money? Her terrified eyes scanned the room, looking for some way to escape. Then she spotted the remains of her cell phone in the corner and it all came clear. Then her own anger returned and the feelings she had been bottling up the last two days came on her like a rush.

"Damn it Horus, it wasn't supposed to be like that! You weren't supposed to fall in love with me and I wasn't supposed to care if you did. It all got ... messed up. One night, that's all I signed on for ... then...” She knew she was handling this badly but her mind was going in so many different directions at once she couldn't really focus on any one.

"I wasn't supposed to fall in love with you?” Horus was yelling now. He didn't know why he couldn't control himself, but all he felt was an itchy sensation all over his skin. “I'm sorry, Ransom, but no one gave me the script!” He was behaving foolishly but he didn't care. He was in way over his head, and his confusion was starting to eat away at him. Then something else she had said sank in.

"Wait a minute. One night? Signed on for one night?” Horus wanted to hit her so hard. He wanted to focus his anger and his pain into one mighty blow and end it all. Yet for some reason, he didn't even have the strength to stand any more. “I...” He turned away from her and fell back to sit on the bed. He couldn't even look at her now. His head hung down, ashamed at how weak he was. He should kill her. He was a Master, and she was a bitch, and she had lied to him, and ... he still couldn't hurt her. Judging by her battered face, she had already been through hell. He couldn't add to her torment, it just wasn't in him. “Get out.” He whispered.

Ransom had heard enough, and she was frustrated with Horus for ignoring the most important detail. Kiera was in trouble and they had to get to her. “Alright fine!” She yelled, releasing all the anger at herself for her stupidity. “I fucked up, alright? Is that what you want to hear? I'm a whore, a slut and all those other names running through your mind right now. You hate me and you'll never forgive me. Ok, fine. Damn it, you can do whatever you want to me later. Right now, Kiera needs you to get her out of there. She's in chains! Fucking silver chains! You got the picture? I'm supposed to be getting Marco's confession to take back to them, so they're expecting me. They aren't expecting you.” She was breathing heavily after her rant. He was still looking at the floor, his massive shoulders hunched over, and it seemed as if her words had simply bounced off him. Suddenly her tears were flowing, and she didn't know if they were for Kiera, or herself, or for Horus, the sire she had betrayed. Her face hurt like hell but it was nothing compared to the pain in her heart.

Ransom took to staring at a spot just next to Horus’ head, unable as she was to look at him directly. She shook her head and wiped at the tears in her eyes. “Look, none of that matters right now. We have to go."

Amris struggled to his feet on the other side of the room. He had never been hit that hard before by anyone or anything in his life, and Horus hadn't even used his fist. By the Moon, if he swung at Ransom, she was as good as dead, and Kiera right along with her. “Horus! By the Stars, you can do this later! We've got to save..."

"Kiera. I know.” Horus’ voice was a whisper. “We've got to save your Mistress, Amris. So you can live happily ever after.” Horus turned back to glare at Ransom and he saw the tears, and her anger, and her own pain etched there. He didn't want to care about her tears, and he really didn't want to care about anything but his own pain right now. “Fine, let's follow the...” He couldn't even use the word. “Let's go, Ransom.” He just felt tired and broken. “Let's go save Kiera."

Ransom turned away, unable to face Horus’ pain. She heard the two Masters following behind her as she rushed out of the room and back down to the street. The taxi was still waiting with orders to take her back to where she had been picked up since she didn't know the address and hadn't wanted to take the time to learn it. “Get the SUV and follow me,” she directed them as she got into the cab. She didn't bother to watch her tone or wording around the Masters. It didn't matter anyway. There was just no way this could get any worse.

Amris shook his head at her order and joined her in the cab. He may still be under an incredible strain from Kiera's predicament but he could still think. When he slipped into the seat next to Ransom, he asked the cabbie where they were going. Once he got the address, he phoned Horus in the following car and passed it along. “Don't let my friend get lost.” He ordered the driver.

"Is there a problem here, miss?” The cabbie was looking at Ransom and trying to ignore the guy almost completely covered in blood in the seat next to her.

"There will be if you don't get to where you picked me up right away. Now hurry!"

Ransom took the few minutes drive to try and explain what was happening to Amris. “You can't believe how sorry I am about all of this. I thought ... It doesn't matter what I thought. Just ... I have no right to ask you and you have no reason to agree, but when you get Kiera out of there, Hector and Carlos are going to go after my father ... He's going to need protection.” She held up a hand at the look Amris gave her. “Please, he doesn't deserve to die for my screw up."

Amris couldn't believe she was actually trying to barter with him after what she had done. but at the mention of her father, some things began to come clear. “He's the reason you're involved, isn't he? They're using him as a hostage against you?"

"Something like that.” Ransom turned to look out the window for several blocks, then turned back to Amris. “I won't use that as an excuse. I had a choice and I made it. I just made the wrong one. I got people hurt and I take full responsibility for my actions. I just ... I don't want to hurt anyone any more."

Amris nodded. “I can't vouch for Horus right now. He's, well, he's not himself. But I'll do what I can. I'll ... Kiera and I will try and help you, Ransom."

"Kiera...” Ransom nodded slowly, an idea forming in her mind. “They've got her...” She looked at the driver who was paying avid attention to the couple in the back. She circled one wrist with her other hand, looking to Amris who nodded his understanding. Then she brought her hand up to her throat and her heart grew heavier when he blinked in surprise. “She's not been feeling well. She's in the basement. You may be able to find an alternate entrance around back."

Amris couldn't believe it was a trap any more. That had actually been one of his first thoughts when she had been in such a rush to leave, but something in her eyes told him she wasn't lying. Then again those were the same eyes that had lied so successfully to Horus, weren't they? No. He had to believe her. Someone had used her as a punching bag and she hadn't even mentioned it. There was no flinching or tears at her own pain, she could easily play on Horus’ heart strings yet she didn't. He had to have more confidence in her now, than she probably deserved. “Okay. That's fine. Where were our friends?"

"With her. But I only saw one other in the house when I left. There could have been more and I just didn't see them, I honestly wasn't really paying attention. I can go in and scout out, if they let me wander. We were locked up until they decided I needed to go get the statement."

By the Moon, she was tired. Her face was sore and was likely bruising nicely where Hector had hit her. She bent forward, resting her elbows on her knees and her forehead in her hands. “I don't know how I'll let you know what I find though. They aren't going to let me back out any time soon."

Then she recognized the weight in her pocket. She still had Tam's cell phone. What had worked one way, could work the other. “What's your cell number?” She asked as she hit the sequence of buttons that would program it into the phone.

Amris shook his head. “You're not going in there alone. You're ... Hunh!” He crumpled forward at the waist, and he actually banged his head against Ransom's knocking her sideways. His eyes were clenched shut and he was shaking his head back and forth. “Scared ... she's scared ... but it's not for her ... she's scared ... for you? She's sad...” He looked up from his pain, and his eyes bore into the driver's through the rear view mirror. “Faster. You bastard. They're killing her!"

Ransom glanced at the cabbie who was staring at Amris in the rear view mirror. What he saw must have frightened him near to death because he stomped on the accelerator, the car lurching forward. When she looked at Amris, his normally brown eyes were red and softly glowing.

"Breathe, Amris, Breathe. You can't help her if you're a wreck. She needs you right now. You have to save her. Save Kiera. You have to save her or you both die.” Ransom rubbed Amris’ back, willing him to calm himself. It would do them no good for him to wolf out here and now. “We're almost there.” She added encouragingly. “I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.” She repeated over and over again until they pulled up in front of a simple, two story home.

As hard as Amris tried, he could not shake Kiera's growing distress. He was weak and shaky, taking a few extra seconds to pull himself together before he tried to climb out of the cab. He had to fight past it. He needed to get control of himself. With the confidence of a Pack Master he thought that if he could control the Fever, he could control the Bond, but he had been wrong.

The Fever was an occasional thing. The Fever was something to accept, and ride out like a wave until it passed.

The Bonding was completely different. Kiera was in his blood now twenty-four hours a day and there was no way to simply ‘wait it out'. It would be like him trying to stop his blood from pumping until he felt better. It was simply impossible.

When the cab had pulled away from the hotel, Horus had slipped into a tailing position behind it, wondering what he was going to do when they got to Kiera. He hated to admit it, but his heart wasn't up for fighting anything right now. Since he had climbed into the SUV, his entire body had felt like it was on fire. He felt the itch from the soles of his feet to the top of his head, and it was driving him insane. He had no idea why he would be feeling so edgy, and so scared, but he was. He didn't even feel like himself.

When the cab finally came to a stop Horus pulled up behind it and quickly climbed out of the SUV. By the time Ransom hopped out of the cab and had circled it to help Amris out, Horus was already there. “What did you do to him?” Horus snapped at her. When they had left, Amris still had some grip on his surroundings. Now he was almost useless.

Amris toppled from the cab, and the cabbie shot off into the night without even waiting to collect his money.

"I didn't do anything to him, Horus.” Ransom snapped irritably. “It's Kiera. I think he's so close, and she's in pain..."

And we're not? Horus thought to himself? I feel suddenly like I've been hit in the gut with a sledgehammer. Horus crouched next to Amris. “You've got to get a grip, Amris, and get strong. I need you."

Amris nodded his head, and put his arm around Horus’ shoulder. “Lift me up."

They stood together and as soon as he was relatively on his feet, Amris turned to Ransom and nodded to the house. “Lead us in."

"No!” Horus hissed. “She stays out here! We don't need her in there.” Horus didn't want to look Ransom in the eye. He didn't want her to see what he was still feeling. The bruising on her face was more pronounced, making him want to wrap her into his arms and comfort her until they faded. “It's not safe, Amris. She ... she'll get hurt.” Amris looked up at his friend and frowned. “Kiera's already hurt. Our mates fight with us, and they fall with us. She leads us in."

Horus looked at Ransom, then at Amris and sighed. He didn't have the strength to point out she was not his mate. She couldn't be. Not after what she had done, no matter how much his heart broke every time he looked at her bruised face. “Fine.” He turned his head in Ransom's direction, unable to look directly at her. “Don't get out of reach. If I can't pull you to safety, you're not going in there.” He snapped.

He couldn't read Ransom's tone, and Horus didn't know if she actually smiled or not, but he thought he heard it in her voice when she said “Yes, Horus."

Then they were up and moving for the front door, with Ransom in the lead, and Horus helping Amris along with his arm around his friend's waist.

Ransom paused at the door and waved her hand to her side, shooing the Masters off to the side a bit where they would be out of sight from the open door. Then she knocked. A Lycan neither Master recognized opened the door and Ransom shot him a seductive little smile, playing the part of the tramp to the hilt. She tilted her head back and licked her lips. She needed to keep his attention on her long enough to get all three of them into the house. She leaned in close, almost as if to kiss him, before she pushed him back through the doorway.

The guard's eyes didn't leave her face, and he was even licking his lips in anticipation of the kiss he was sure she was about to bestow on him. After all, he had heard the rumors of what a little tramp she was, and if this was his chance to score with the redhead, he would take it. Several paces into the house, she stepped to the side and let him get a full view of the two Masters who had followed her in.

Before he was able to make a sound, Horus had grabbed the guard's head with both large hands, twisting his neck so savagely the breaking bone made an audible crack. The Lycan guard fell to the floor in a heap. The killing had taken less than a second and Horus was even able to catch Amris before his friend hit the ground. Ransom searched the guard quickly, finding the gun she was looking for. She had seen it on her way out, though she had no idea if there were silver bullets in it or not.

Cautiously she handed it to Amris who gave her a weak smile and nod of thanks. It was all she could ask for. Her stomach was in knots but she forced herself to move deeper into the house, guiding the Masters to the stairs leading down into the basement. She had never done anything like this before and was absolutely terrified, but it was her fault Kiera was in trouble, and it was up to her to do something about it now.

Once she moved past, Horus watched her carefully, unwilling to trust her after all she had done. Though she hadn't made any suspicious moves, he did not take his eyes off her back for more than a second. His stomach was still a bundle of knots and tension, and he didn't understand why he was so frightened. He had dealt with killings a hundred times before. Why was he so scared now? When Ransom paused at the top of the basement steps, he wanted to pull her to safety, and he barely kept himself in check.

As much as he hated admitting it, Ransom was here and she was helping them. Not only that ... by the Moon, she smelled delicious! Even with everything that was going on in his head, the smell of her made his heart race and his blood simmer. The sway of her hips as she descended the stairs was enough to make his mouth water. By the Moon, he hated that his heart and body still reacted to her!

When she reached the paneled door at the bottom of the stairs, she started to open it as Amris pushed himself off Horus’ body and away from his friend's hold. The bastards that took Kiera were behind that door, and he would make them pay for that. An attack against either of them was an attack against them both.

As the door opened, Amris could barely see past Ransom's shoulder, but he saw enough to make his blood run cold. He saw Kiera, bound as Ransom had described, with chains at her wrists and neck. The collar that would have been erotically attractive at any other time, was now simply an example of her bondage and captivity. He could tell that her skin was pale and wan, and when Ransom walked in the door, he saw Kiera's eyes widen in surprise.

Next, he saw Carlos. The Lunatier number two had been talking about something to Kiera, his tone boastful, and full of the false pride he had come to expect from Carlos. Amris thought he heard Silas’ name and assumed that Carlos was still rankled about having given up his son.

Carlos turned as Ransom entered the basement. She was walking with more strength and determination than she had when she had left, and Carlos noted the change immediately. “What's gotten into you, whore? Why are you so ... Shit!"

His hands fumbled into his pockets as he tried to draw the gun he had there, but he was far too slow. Even in his weakened condition, there was no way on earth that Amris was going to be beaten to the draw by Carlos. No way.

The gunshot sounded like a small explosion in the confines of the basement. The bullet slapped into Carlos’ chest and burst into a web of blood and silver almost at once. As he fell to the ground, his knees buckled beneath him and his arms sagged limp to his side. Within seconds he had gone from a vital, active, vicious Lycan, to a limp corpse. Carlos hadn't even had the time to cry out in pain before the silver did its deadly work. As they watched in silent horror, the silver tendrils of the molten shot wrapped themselves around the shattered pieces of Carlos’ heart, then melted through the muscle to dissolve it almost instantly.

When they looked up at Kiera, they were surprised to see her crying over Carlos’ death. “No ... no ... damn it ... no ... Silas..."

Pocketing the gun, Amris staggered to Kiera's side. He collapsed to his knees in front of her, his thumbs brushing tears from her cheeks. “Shhh, honey, shhh. Its going to be ok. Don't cry.” Her tears were tearing great, rending holes in his heart. He could bear anything but her tears. “That wasn't Silas. It was Carlos. I killed Carlos."

"No. No, you don't understand. Carlos has Silas somewhere. He's...” She hiccupped and tried to push to her feet but her knees buckled before she could get half way up.

Amris caught her before she fell completely, easing her back into a sitting position. “We have to get these things off you.” Up close, he was able to see her skin. The exposure to the silver already had it raw and blistering under the manacles. It was one of the most severe reactions he had ever seen, prevalent in those who were most susceptible to the deadly metal.

"Carlos has a key.” Kiera's eyes were drooping and she was having trouble breathing. She was just so damn tired. Amris was here and he would hold her while she slept. She would be okay as long as Amris was with her. She knew they needed to move, to get out of there, but she couldn't seem to make her body obey the commands of her brain. She had been fighting the effects of the silver for so long. Now she could relax, Amris would take care of everything. She would just take a little nap and she would be fine. She had been drawing on much of Amris’ own strength just to stay awake, and now that he was here, rescuing her, she finally felt she could stop. With a soft sigh, she left the darkness take over and slipped into unconsciousness.

Horus had moved in close enough to hear Kiera's last statement and turned to the body. Ransom must have also heard it as well because she was kneeling next to Carlos’ body trying to force herself to ignore the blood and gore from Carlos’ destroyed chest. Her pallor was slightly green and she swallowed several times as she tried to fumble with Carlos’ pockets looking for the keys. With a huff of impatience, Horus shoved her away from the body and searched the man's pockets, careful to avoid contact with the hardening silver. The key was relatively easy to find and in seconds he had it in Amris’ hand.

Then Horus turned to Ransom, telling himself it was just to keep an eye on a suspect. She looked so lost and alone standing off to the side. She had not moved from where he had pushed her, as if she knew she was no longer a part of their group. Her eyes were looking everywhere but at Carlos’ body or the people she had lied to so effectively the last several days He wanted to rush to her side and hold her and tell her it would be okay, but he couldn't do that because he just didn't believe it any more.

Mentally, Ransom breathed a sigh of relief. Kiera was safe. That was all that mattered. Ransom had screwed up her own life royally, but this was one thing she had done right. Then she remembered Tam. Her father was somewhere, drunk and alone. Once she found him she would work on getting him sober and helping him stay that way. She couldn't leave the house until she was sure he wasn't there, passed out drunk, or even locked up somewhere. She had only taken a first step toward the door when Horus grabbed her arm, pulling her up short.

"Where the hell do you think you're going?” He growled, his eyes hard and cold.

"I need to find my father. He may be in the house.” The answer was simple, raw and honest. She was so tired of the lies. No matter how much it may hurt her now, she was glad to be done with them.

The chains fell from Kiera with a clang and Amris kicked them viciously away as he cradled his mate to his chest. Blood continued to ooze from several spots on her neck and wrists where the silver had been in constant contact. Rising to his feet he turned to Horus, ignoring Ransom completely. “Let's get out of here.” He wasn't sure Ransom was in a frame of mind to take action. Horus he trusted to get them back to the hotel safely.

Now Horus was caught in a dilemma. As much as he knew Amris and Kiera needed to get out of the house to recover, Ransom's confession that her father might be involved in this mess meant he would have to deal with that as well.

"Your father is part of this?” His eyes showed anger at having been betrayed, but there was also some pain there as well. If her father were part of Hector's entourage, it would explain a lot.

Ransom finally looked into his eyes, then shook her head. “Maybe in the beginning he was. I don't know. No. He's not part of this. He's ... I can explain later. But he may be in as much danger as Kiera was. Please. I need to find him."

Horus handed Amris the pistol, not even sure if there were any rounds still in it, and told him to stay in the basement. “When I come back, I'll say I'm Ransom. Anyone else ... you do what you have to."

He took Ransom by the arm and pulled her back up the stairs. For some reason, the tight clench of his stomach didn't seem quite as bad as before. In fact, it felt like it was beginning to wane and that whatever it was that had been eating at him, had passed. He felt edgy and tense, but it was in a good way. It was the way he should feel before a fight.

Ransom leaned in close to his ear and whispered, “Guard upstairs...” Her whisper was soft and light, and as gentle as breathing.

Nodding his head, he moved to the side of the wall, and looked up the stairs. He couldn't see anyone, but his senses told him there was someone there and that someone probably had the silver ammo, as well. Horus looked down into Ransom's face, and caught her looking up the stairs as well. Her face displayed a mixture of her emotions. Fear was there, as was anger, but overshadowing all of them was a visible hope that her father was actually upstairs.

Horus could almost feel her need to find her sire, and he wondered at what kind of love she had for her father to have brought her to this place. At least, he reasoned sadly, she could love somebody. Even with the dark purple and blue marks marring her skin, she was beautiful enough to take his breath away.

"Stay here.” He whispered as gently as he could. His movement up the stairs was swift and silent as a breeze. He crossed the landing without effort and had just entered the upper hall when the guard there noticed him.

Crying out in surprise, the Lycan leapt at Horus, his claws extended and Horus took a small gash across his bicep before rolling back away from his attacker. Horus snapped out with his right fist, popping the guard on the nose and spraying blood across his face. The guard dropped to his knees at Horus’ feet, his eyes full of tears. Ransom had already come running up the stairs as soon as Horus had engaged the guard and she took off down the hallway, opening doors and calling out for her father.

The guard was stunned, but he was strong and still capable of fighting. He fumbled about, desperately looking for any kind of weapon he could use against Horus, knowing for a certainty he could never match the Weret Master's power. His hands closed on a thick rung in the banister and he wrenched the wood loose with a savage cry.

When the makeshift club was swung at his head, Horus deflected it easily, then stepped into the arc of the guard's swing, and trapped the man's arm into a painful hold. “Where's her father?"

"Not here. He's..."

Ransom had run back to Horus after finding all the rooms empty. “Where is he?” She screamed.

"He's dead, bitch.” Horus wrenched the guard's arm up and out of the shoulder socket, making the Lycan scream at the pain. He saw the look on Horus’ face and blurted out, “Hector and Carlos did it! I swear! It wasn't me!"

Ransom went numb with shock. It had all been for nothing. Her father was dead and the one man she had ever loved now hated her. She felt her world crashing in on her and she had to brace herself against the wall to remain standing. She heard the sound of bone cracking and splintering and then Horus was kneeling beside her. The Lycan guard lay at her feet but she stared at him without really seeing him. She felt Horus’ hand on her arm and flinched away, jerking out of his grasp. “Don't touch me.” She was only barely holding it together, if Horus was nice to her now, she would fall apart completely. She didn't deserve his pity or kindness.

Horus didn't know what to do. He hated the lost, defeated look that fell over Ransom like a cloak. Her skin was cold under his hand. Her rejection stung with a pain he couldn't have imagined. “We have to go.” He said in a harsher tone than he had intended.

Ransom nodded in silent acceptance and gathered her last reserves, moving mechanically for the stairs.

Horus just wanted to get them all the hell out of this evil house. The very air made his skin crawl. He followed her down to the basement, announcing himself as Ransom before entering. “Let's go."

Amris looked from Horus to Ransom with a raised brow. They had left in search of her father and had returned empty-handed. Worse, Ransom looked as if she were about to faint away within seconds. Horus shook his head slightly. He would tell Amris later. Ransom didn't need to hear the words spoken again so soon. Once was more than enough.

Hector kicked in the door to Marco's apartment and stormed inside with a roar. “Marco! Marco! Where are you, you traitor?"

He was in such a rage he tore apart everything he could in Marco's small home, looking for some sign of the little traitor, but it almost looked like the Norm had known he was coming and left. Hector wouldn't have put it past Amris or Horus to be sheltering the little bastard now, either.

Hector laughed at that thought. Fine, Amris, you can keep the little shit. But I still have your wife, and in a few days, you'll both be just a memory.

He turned to leave when Marco stepped into the doorway, one of the special guns in his hand. “Is it true, you bastard? Did you set Leo up?"

Hector stepped back from the door, and wondered how good Marco's reflexes were. Hector knew a shot was fatal, and it didn't matter where he got hit, eventually the liquid silver would do its job.

"No, Marco. I didn't set him up. He was where he was supposed to be, and I was on my way to pay him, when that son of a bitch found him and killed him."

Marco shook his head. “Don't lie to me ... Hector.” Marco laughed at Hector's expression. “Yeah, I know your real name. Amris, the real Amris, told me all about it."

"Did he tell you how he killed your brother? Did he tell you that?” Hector shook his head. “You're pointing that thing at the wrong wolf, Marco. Amris is the one you want."

Marco nodded his head. “Yeah, yeah, that's what they figured you'd say."

"What?"

"I talked to Amris ... and Horus ... and Kiera. Yeah, they told me their names, you son of a bitch, their real names. Kiera even admitted ... she had the nerve and the stones to admit to my face she killed my brother.” Marco stepped further into the living room, the pistol still leveled on Hector forcing him to retreat further into the house. “Why didn't you, Hector? Why don't you have the stones to admit you got Leo killed?"

Hector licked his lips. This shouldn't be happening. Marco should be afraid of him, scared to even face him, let alone threaten him. This was all wrong.

"What's wrong, Hector? Cat got your tongue?” Marco laughed at the expression.

"You don't know..."

"I know enough!” Marco shouted. “I know who you are and I know you had Leo killed. And I know that I'm just as much to blame for Leo's death, because I introduced you. But I'm going to make that right tonight. Horus told me to run. To get away. He told me they would deal with you.” Marco shook his head. “But you werewolves aren't the only people on earth who care about their families."

The gun went off even as Hector was leaping through the air and the bullet missed Hector by a hair's breadth, splattering its silvery contents on the back wall. When Hector came up from his roll, he had a piece of Marco's coffee table in his hand and the second shot smashed into the wood, splintering it and spraying silver through the air. A small splash of the liquid landed on Hector's forearm and he screamed a curse as it burned, but he was still moving.

Hector threw the wooden tabletop like a frisbee and it slammed into Marco's chest, breaking some of the human's ribs and forcing his third shot to go wide of his target once again.

Hector never gave him a chance for a fourth shot. As he bounded across the room, he shifted, and his clawed hand slapped the gun from Marco's grip sending it skittering across the floor.

Hector was in Marco's face now, his jaws snapping and the saliva coating his teeth dripping down onto Marco's cheek.

Marco should have been screaming. He should have been terrified that he was about to die. Instead, his mouth was set in a determined line as he reached down to his calf, and pulled the silver dagger from its hidden sheath.

"This is for Leo, you mother fucker...” He thrust upward with all his might, and it was only Hector's speed that saved him being gutted. He still took a vicious gash along his thigh, though, and his blood flew across the wall.

Hector howled at the strike, and though he was now deathly afraid of the silver blade, his own pride and rage would not allow him to withdraw. He feinted to his left, and when Marco twisted to meet him there, Hector closed on the blond thug, clasping his right wrist in his grip and sinking his teeth into Marco's shoulder.

Marco screamed in agony at the bite and fell backwards over the couch, with Hector above him. Once again, Hector's teeth ravaged Marco's shoulder and Marco could do nothing but scream and kick in agony.

It took a superhuman effort, with Hector's teeth closed on his shoulder, but Marco fought through the pain, and forced his dagger to move. He touched skin and fur with the point and thrust it home.

Hector howled at the burning touch of the silver blade, momentarily releasing his viselike grip on Marco's shoulder. Hector had been wounded before, in countless battles over the ages, and he knew he would survive. His eyes were filled with a frenzied rage as Hector forced himself away from the human. He needed space, and distance now. He had come here expecting to mete out his own punishment, and once again, Amris’ interference had changed that. Amris had told Marco the truth, and Horus had managed to get a confession from him. Hector had no doubt of that now. Just as he had no doubt there was no fear left in Marco Jarvis. Hector was going to have to kill him.

He saw Marco scrambling for the pistol once more and it took every ounce of strength in his body to make the leap that brought him to the human's side. With one brutal swing of his fist, Hector snapped Marco's head to the side and into the wall. Marco collapsed to the floor without a sound.

Hector rolled away from Marco's body and looked down at his left knee. The silver dagger had been pushed right through one side to stick out the other. His face was sweating, and the blood along his leg was matted in his fur. Hector knew he had to take that dagger out, or the silver would eventually kill him. Tears were streaming down his face as he reached down and grasped the hilt of the blade in both hands. With a cry of anger and pain, he yanked the blade from his leg, passing out from the pain.

Hector woke only moments later. He was weak and disoriented from the loss of blood and the strange turn of events that had led to the fight. He lay there for a few minutes waiting for the bleeding to stop, thanks to the Lycan gift of healing quickly. When it didn't stop, he realized it must be the effects of the silver weapon and he would have to make it to help on his own.

It took him ten more minutes to get out the door. His leg was wrapped up in Marco's shirt, and he had used the blond human's pants to tie a bandage around his knee. Marco's gun still had one bullet left, so that was something. Hector had to get back to Carlos and the safe house fast. Carlos was a decent combat healer, and he was sure to have something for his knee and leg. Hector knew without the special balms that Carlos carried with him, that leg would be a long time healing, and the knee might never knit right.

He looked back at Marco's broken and bloodied body and cursed him. Little bastard, Hector thought, you died too quick.

The clerk at the hotel didn't ask any questions when the four of them came staggering into the lobby. Ransom was moving like a zombie, the tears still streaming down her face. Kiera was dead to the world, still unconscious in Horus’ arms as he carried both her dead weight and Amris’ supported weight into the building. Both men were covered in blood, but it didn't appear to be their own.

Horus rushed them all upstairs, and placed Kiera in the bed to recover. Ransom collapsed onto the bed beside her, and buried her head in a pillow. Every sob, every weeping cough tore at Horus’ heart and he found it harder and harder to be angry for the lie she had committed on all of them. Yet, it still was not in him to go to her. The wound was still too raw.

Amris collapsed into a chair beside the bed and reached out to hold Kiera's hand to comfort her even in her sleep.

As he surveyed the room, it struck Horus that he was in the best shape of all of them, but he still hadn't accepted what had happened. Ransom was distraught at her father's death, certainly. Questions filled his mind that only Ransom could answer and she was in no condition to give a straight answer. Why had she expected to find her father there? Why would Hector have needed to kill him? Was he getting tired of prostituting his daughter? Did they have a falling out?

Horus had no idea, and nothing had been said between them on the entire drive back to the hotel one way or the other. Horus knew it was selfish of him to be thinking about his own feelings but he needed to know how much of what she had done was an act.

One night. She had admitted she had only been ... she had been told to make him happy for one night. So why did she come with him? Was it because he had asked her to join him, or was it even more sinister than that? He rubbed his hand over his face and sighed. He noted that Amris had passed out now, just like Kiera had. He had no idea what it meant to be Bonded and after watching the torment that Amris and Kiera had just gone through, he didn't know if he wanted to.

Ransom's sobs had stopped and he could see her just holding the pillow tight to her. Less than three hours ago, it would have been him she was holding so tightly. In that short time span, everything had changed and nothing would be the same again.

The dawn was coming, but it was bringing an ugly dark mood with it. The clouds were gray and heavy, and Horus could smell a thunderstorm in the near future. Hector was still out there in the city with who knew how many other Lycan to back him up. He should move everyone to a safer place, but he just didn't have the strength in him to do that.

He reached over to the phone and called down to the main desk. “We aren't expecting anyone today. Anyone who says they have a meeting with us is lying and will only cause harm to this establishment and your patrons. Just tell those people we've checked out in a rush ... I understand ... there will be a hundred percent tip for you if you just do as I said.” Horus nodded into the phone. “Thank you."

After hanging up the phone, he sat back in his chair and guarded the room. His friends needed him now, and though he felt more alone than he ever had he wouldn't let them down.

The room grew dark as night fell once more. Hour after hour had passed, and the day had shifted to evening with no attacks. No one had moved. Ransom's heartbroken sobs had subsided to periodic hiccups until she had passed out into an exhausted sleep, otherwise the room was completely still and silent.

Horus’ skin felt itchy and tight, now. The pain in his stomach had shifted to a dull, annoying ache. Nature was calling and he desperately needed to clean up. The blood on his hands and clothes had dried and stiffened. Slowly he rose from the chair, easing himself into an upright position. He had been sitting there for so long his muscles were stiff. As much as he wanted a shower, he would not leave those in his care unprotected for that long. Simply because Hector hadn't made his move yet, didn't mean he wouldn't. The Lunatier traitor knew where they were staying and that made this room, and this entire hotel vulnerable. He could, however, spare a few minutes to change and wash his hands and face.

He was still numb, unsure of how he felt at the betrayal of the woman he thought he loved. Had he known enough about the real woman beneath the deceit to determine if he loved her or not? He still didn't know. There were so many questions he needed answers to, and Ransom was so wrapped in her heart break, she hadn't been able to speak much less answer. He could only stand idly by and wait out her grief. He wasn't so heartless as to demand her to answer him now, but he wasn't forgiving enough to try to console her through her loss either, especially not after she had rejected his first attempt. After a moment he moved silently to gather a change of clothes and headed into the bathroom.

Ransom heard the water hit the bowl of the bathroom sink and it rousted her from her mind numbing pain. She looked beside her to the Mistress, unconscious and healing. Kiera's hand was linked with her mate and Master, who was just as dead to the world and recovering from his own ordeal. Then her gaze traveled to the closed bathroom door. Horus. Her target. Her lover. And all of it for nothing.

The room suddenly started feeling like it was closing in on her and she slipped off the bed, still clutching the pillow. She paced for a moment, making a full circuit of the room. It wasn't big enough. She needed more space, more openness ... more ... something. Her suitcase still sat in the corner, fully packed from the night before and waiting for her. She didn't think, didn't try to reason it out or argue with herself. This time she simply acted on the impulse of the moment. She didn't belong here.

Tossing the pillow aside, she snatched up the case and carried it out of the hotel room, closing the door softly behind her. Her arrival into Kiera, Amris and Horus’ lives, had only brought them misery and grief. Perhaps her departure would restore the balance to their lives that her intrusion had upset. They didn't need her and she simply wasn't strong enough to face their combined rejection. She had betrayed them all and nearly cost Kiera her life. There was no forgiveness possible for her crimes.

There was a slight chill to the air when she reached the street but Ransom didn't notice.

The streets were slick and damp, as if it had rained recently, but Ransom didn't even remember hearing it fall. As she walked down the street, she forced her brain to look at the hopelessness of her situation. She had twenty dollars, her father's cell phone, and a suitcase full of ... costumes. Why had she even bothered to take it? That answer was easy enough. It was all she had. She had no idea where she was going or what she was going to do there. She only knew she just needed to put as much distance between herself and the others as possible.

She heard a car approaching from behind and turned to face it, sticking out her thumb. The car eased to the side of the road and the window slid down on the passengers’ side. It was a young couple, both of them somewhere in their twenties. They looked nice and friendly. They looked happy together. Like she and Horus used to be.

"Hey, honey,” the blonde in the passenger seat smiled up at her, “where you off to?"

"Just heading out.” Ransom didn't want a conversation, she just needed a lift.

The woman took in the suitcase, the teary eyes and the swelling bruise under Ransom's left eye. “Man troubles?"

Ransom didn't even know how to answer that so she said nothing.

"We're just going over to the park on the isle. Take in the night scenery.” The blonde jerked her head toward the back door. “Get in. A young lady like yourself shouldn't be out alone.” The blonde evidently didn't feel a need to comment on the bruise.

Ransom smiled and said her thanks then slipped into the back of the car. After everything that had happened, the simple demonstration of kindness had caught her momentarily off guard, but she was loathe to ignore it. Her suitcase went in first, and when she was settled into the back seat, she tilted her head back and sighed. Another tear found its way down her cheek, but this time Ransom didn't know if she was crying for her father, or for Horus, or even for herself. She leaned over to roll down the window to feel the cool, night air on her face.

"You okay, hon?” The woman gave her a small smile, gentle and tentative, as if meeting a new friend.

"No. I ... just lost my...” Ransom shook her head. These were nice people and she didn't want to burden them with her troubles. “Can you please take me to this isle you were talking about? I'd like to just sit and look at the moon for a little while. If that's okay?"

"Sure it is, honey. My name's Barbara, by the way. And this is my man, Kenneth."

Ransom smiled, and then laughed through her tears. “Ken and Barbie?"

Barbara laughed with Ransom. “Oooowie! We haven't heard that one in a few years!"

Ken spoke up at last, and his voice was as calming and reassuring as Horus’ used to be. “You just sit back and relax—?"

"Ransom. I know ... silly name. You can call me ... heck, Honey sounded real nice."

Barbara turned in the front seat and put her hand on Ransom's knee. “Okay, Honey, you just sit back and relax."

As Ken pulled back into traffic, Ransom closed her eyes and thanked the Moon for people like Barbara and Ken. Then she tried to relax.

Horus felt the change in the room before he even opened the bathroom door. Ransom was gone. He knew it on an instinctive level even before he looked to the bed and saw the empty space where Ransom had been. Still, he had to be sure. He went out into the main room and found her suitcase gone as well. She had left him, just like Janise. At least Janise had given him an explanation. Ransom hadn't even bothered to do that.

Rage and hurt welled within him and he gripped the back of a chair trying to breathe through the red haze that clouded his vision. She was gone. The flimsy wood of the chair cracked then broke apart completely, under the strength of his pain. She was gone.

Kiera heard the shattering of wood through her fading lethargy and blinked her eyes. The hours of rest had done her good, though her neck and wrists were still covered in angry blisters and scabs. Her body was heavy, but her mind was alert. She squeezed Amris’ hand lightly before slipping her own out of his grip and going to investigate the sound. If Horus and Ransom were fighting, they would need a referee. There was too much misunderstanding between them to simply leave them to work it out on their own.

Upon entering the main room, she was immediately alarmed seeing Horus alone. “Where's Ransom?” she asked.

"She left.” Horus really wasn't in any mood to talk about Ransom right now. “She just took her stuff and left."

"And you let her? Damn it Horus ... You have to go after her.” Kiera moved further into the room and took a seat on the loveseat. She was feeling much better but she was still weak and needed to sit.

Horus shook his head. “No. I need to stay here and make sure you and Amris are safe.” He couldn't even look at Kiera. For some strange, stupid, unknowing reason, just looking at the Grey Mistress made him think of Ransom. “That's what I signed on for, remember? To help you and Amris.” He looked at the splintered remains of the chair and sighed, letting them drop from his fingers. “Ransom wasn't even supposed to be a part of this. I guess Amris was right about that, too."

"Horus...” Kiera was never really good with words. Socializing had never been a strong suit. That was Adric's thing, not hers. “You didn't sign on to fall in love either. She was an unexpected asset to us, and one I am glad to have had on board. Didn't she find Marco for us? And didn't that lead to finding where those bullets were made? We need her. You need her. You can't just let her walk away.” She sighed and shook her head. “She needs to know the truth of how she was used and manipulated by Carlos and Hector."

Horus laughed at that. “How she was manipulated? Please, Kiera, I think we both know who was manipulated here. Hell, you were there tonight. We got in that house, and rescued you, and no sooner are you out of those chains and she's off looking for her father. The same father that told her how to set me up, and the same Lycan son of a bitch that arranged to have you taken.” He shook his head. “I need someone ... yeah, I agree with you there. But I ... I don't need her. Not anymore.” Even as he said the words, Horus didn't truly believe them.

"That's just it. That wasn't her father. Carlos did a lot of talking while he and I were alone. He told me how he and Hector had killed her father; how Hector had taken his cell phone. Every time she thought she was talking to Tam, she was really talking to Hector. Okay, wait, let me back up.” She paused for a moment struggling to get her thoughts in order. It seemed that the time she had spent in the silver had affected her memory as well. Simple things that she should remember seemed far off, as if shrouded in some kind of haze. “Evidently her father had racked up some debts which Hector and Carlos bought the marker for. I don't know all the details, or even who their Lord is that bought them up. We'll have to get that information from Ransom, if she even knows. The point is, she thought she was doing what her father was telling her to, only it wasn't him."

Horus looked up at Kiera at the mention of Ransom's father being killed. So Ransom was only doing what her father told her? “Does that matter, Kiera, as to who was telling her what?” Horus shook his head. “She lied to me. She knew what she was doing and she lied to me. And when I told her I loved her, and I told her about Janise, and...” Horus lowered his gaze back to the floor. “She could have said something, Kiera. Why didn't she...” Then his head jerked up and he looked at the drawer with the notepad, and the note. “Oh no..."

Kiera shook her head. “You don't understand what it's like to be a lone female. You don't know what it can be like to be an unmated, and unBonded female. She had no choice. Her father was the alpha of her family. His word was law, whether she liked it or not. Carlos mentioned their leader didn't approve of drinking or gambling. Maybe there was bad blood there and she couldn't go to him for help. I can only guess at what might have been going through her head, but I can all too easily see how it could have happened. I've seen it before time and again."

Horus rose to his feet. He was listening to Kiera with part of his senses, but he remembered now the letter, in Ransom's hand. He opened the drawer and took out the pad of paper. There was more there than he had seen before. Unable to stop himself, he began reading the letter, softly in a low whisper.

"The woman you know as Ransom is a lie. I only wish I were as good and pure as the illusion I created for you. I'm not. I have lied and deceived you from the start, for which I am truly sorry. If I had known what a wonderful and decent man you are, I never would have accepted the deal that put me in your bed. Forget me. Find someone worthy of you..."

Horus closed his eyes and hung his head. “She wanted to tell me. She was trying to tell me, and I couldn't hear her. I ... by the Stars, Kiera, what do I do?"

"Go after her. Find her.” Something was irritating Kiera in the back of her mind, something important that she should remember. She frowned, trying to focus on what that thing was, her mind seemed fuzzy and thinking was difficult. Then it came to her in a flash. “Horus. You have to go after her. Now. Right now. Hector told her if she didn't come back with the statement, he was going to kill both her and her father. When he gets back to the house and finds Carlos dead, he's going to be furious. She's out there alone and he's going to hunt her. If he finds her, he'll kill her. Slowly and painfully, just to make her pay. He's an evil bastard, Horus."

The big Lycan rose to his feet and was almost out the door, when he pulled up short. “I can't ... I...” He looked back at Amris lying unmoving in the chair, and he saw Kiera's weakened condition and he stood there trembling. “I said I would be here for you and Amris. I can't leave you like this. If you're wrong ... Hector has been here before. If he comes back and I'm not here to protect you ... I gave Amris my word, Kiera."

Horus closed the door and walked back to the window overlooking the city streets. The night had started to fall like a shroud over the city and he knew the darkness was where his kind hunted best. The pad of paper was still in his hand and he looked from the paper to Amris’ resting form, and back to Kiera. Her eyes were hard and he knew she was judging him, but he had sworn an oath that he would protect his friends.

"Horus...” Amris’ voice was tired, but strong, “if you don't go out there and find her, I am going to kick your ass."

Horus looked down at Amris and was stunned to see his friend awake before he looked at Kiera's softer expression. She nodded once, and then Horus was out the door running.

Kiera watched him go with a chuckle then immediately grew serious. “I hope he finds her before Hector does."

"He will.” Amris said with complete confidence. He sighed and pulled himself out of the chair. “He's right though, we're vulnerable here. I'm going to call downstairs and see if I can have us moved to another room, preferably on a different floor."

Kiera raised a brow at him as he moved stiffly to the phone. “I don't think I can haul all this stuff up or down a flight of stairs. See if they have anyone they can send to do it for us."

"Honey, you're not hauling anything, anywhere.” Amris assured her, moving over to her position on the couch to pull her into a desperate and heated kiss. The last night had been hell on both of them, and he just suddenly needed to feel her. He needed the validation she was alive and back with him, more than anything.

Kiera tasted the desperation on his tongue and lifted a hand to wrap in his hair, deepening the kiss. She was still weak so it didn't have the impact she would have hoped, but she got her point across well enough. She was alright, or would be in time, now that they were once more together.

They finally broke their kiss long enough for Amris to reach the phone and make the arrangements to change their rooms. The front desk clerk was the same fellow Horus had talked to earlier. The hotel was more than happy to move their belongings and would send someone up with new keys in thirty minutes.

When he turned back to Kiera, she was deep in thought, biting her lip. By the Moon, he thought, she was sexy when she did that. He slipped onto the loveseat next to her and pulled her into his arms. She fit perfectly as if she were made just for him. His whole body relaxed when she snuggled closer to him, but he could still sense an uncertainty within her. An anxiety that hadn't been resolved. “Penny for your thoughts?” He said lowly into her hair.

"I'm worried about Horus and Ransom. They're out there alone. There are still a lot of bullets we haven't recovered and neither one of us is in a state that we could help him if he called. He needs back up.” Kiera shared her concerns, her hand resting on his chest next to her cheek.

Amris was quiet for a thoughtful moment. Once again she had proven his choice had been right and she was a capable Mistress. Despite all her own problems, the trauma of being kidnapped and the pain she was surely still in, she still thought of others. “Ulric said he could have fifty Lycan available if I needed them. I don't think it's quite that bad yet, but I agree. We do need some support. I'll call Ra and have him and Shiri come out here. Ra is a capable second and Shiri is a vicious bitch when she needs to be. They will keep Horus and Ransom safe until those two can work out their own problems and get back to the Weret Pack."

"Do you think they will?” Kiera asked softly. “Work out their problems I mean."

Amris had to chuckle, “Whether they like it or not, I don't see that they have much of a choice. Those two were made for each other. They just haven't realized it yet."

Horus reached the lobby in record time, and the clerk looked up at him with a raised eyebrow. “Sir?"

"The redhead I was with. She left..."

"Yes, sir. About twenty minutes ago."

"Did she hail a cab?” If she did, that would make finding her a lot easier, but then, if she had called a cab, where would she have had it take her?

"No, she didn't. I offered to call one, but she said she'd walk.” The clerk gave Horus a disapproving look, remembering the bruise on Ransom's cheek and just said, “So she left. Alone."

Horus ignored the clerk and dashed outside. He took in a deep breath, wanting to smell her. Suddenly he needed to feel some part of her within him once more. He laughed out loud when he picked up her scent, even through the wet ground and the damp air. It was as much a part of him as his own skin.

"I'm coming, Ransom."

He breathed it in again, sorting her scent out from all the others. He could smell her sweat. He could smell her tears, and he hated himself for not being there to comfort her. He should have done something, he should have said something but he had been so God damned stupid.

He turned to the east and started running, filtering out what he could of her scent. He relished the times it was strong and fierce in his head. Her face filled his thoughts, and he laughed again at the knowledge that it was her face, and only her face, that he could see. Janise no longer haunted his thoughts, there was only room for Ransom now.

"Don't worry, Ransom. I'm coming.” He whispered it to himself and promised to her, that wherever she was, he was coming for her.

He had run about half a mile when he came to a dead stop. It seemed suddenly that she had vanished and been swept off the face of the earth, but Horus knew that wasn't possible. He tried to think while he focused on her scent. She might have gotten into a cab, but that still left the question as to where she would go. She didn't know the city, didn't know its haunts or its parks.

Horus closed his eyes and breathed in the essence of her. It was still there ... but it was light and as thin as gossamer strands ... she was in a car ... still heading east.

He couldn't keep himself from tilting his head back and howling into the night sky. He was on the hunt now, and he would not be denied!

Then he was off again, and as he ran, he gradually shifted, absorbing his clothing into his wolfen form, needing the advantage of the extra speed and reinforced senses that body gave him. Single bounds launched him over parked cars, and the people that he landed next to screamed or fainted dead away at the sight of the gigantic wolf suddenly appearing in their midst. At other times, he moved so quickly the people he rushed past didn't know exactly what it was they had seen, only knowing instead that they needed to get home and off the streets as quickly as they could. He was a force of nature now, and his speed was such that even as he passed them by, the witnesses to his passing were never truly certain what it was they had seen.

He reached the road bridge to Belle Isle after a twenty minute hunt and smiled. He could see the lights of the park on the island, but so much of the island was still shrouded in darkness. The woods would be a perfect sanctuary for her. With everything that had happened Horus kicked himself for not seeking out the park sooner. It only made sense that Ransom would want to find some solitude and bond with her animal side once more. He bounded onto the bridge and raced forward, her scent getting stronger with each passing step and his need to see her growing with it.

When he reached the other side of the bridge, he shifted back to his human form, shifting his clothing back into being, and simply ran. He had the scent of not only Ransom now, but also the vehicle and the young couple that had picked her up. He couldn't figure out why a young couple would feel the need to come out to the island at night, but Ransom had been lucky to find them.

He traveled another half mile when he came across the humans. They were sitting on the hood of the car, on a blanket. The sire's arm was around his bitch and her head was on his shoulder. They were looking across the river to the soft light on the Canadian side, and at the stars overhead.

He felt like an intruder in their peaceful calm, but Ransom was nowhere to be seen, and he was in a hurry.

"Excuse me ... I..."

The male rolled off the hood of the car and immediately stood between Horus and his bitch. Horus liked him at once.

"Who are you, buddy?” The man's hands were balled into fists and Horus almost laughed, but he wasn't looking for a fight.

"I'm not here for trouble. I'm looking for a woman ... she has red hair and she had a suitcase—"

"Ransom? You're looking for Ransom?” The girl stepped up behind her sire and looked at Horus from the protection offered by her mate. “You're the guy that made her cry. You're the one that hit her.” Now the bitch was getting defensive.

"No! I didn't! That was someone else! I ... but ... I...” Horus hated it when he got embarrassed, and he had to take a breath to calm himself. “Look ... do you ... do you know where she is?"

"You've got some nerve, pal.” The sire just wouldn't shut up. “She was alone in the street with her suitcase. At night. Where the hell were you? It could have been anybody picking her up."

Like Hector. Sweet stars. He had actually almost forgotten about Hector.

"I know. I ... I messed up.” Horus looked to the female, hoping to connect with her at least. “Please. Which ... way did she go?"

"She went over to the west end of the island.” The young woman said after a long pause. Clearly approving of something she saw in his face that made her want to answer him. “She said she needed to see the moon."

Horus smiled. Of course ... the moon. “Thank you. Thank you."

He had already turned and dashed off, swallowed up by the darkness almost immediately, before either Ken or Barbara thought to ask how he had found her out on the island in the first place.

The small white wolf ran like the wind. She soared as she ran, weaving between trees and sailing over the ground. It was like flying, the wind in her fur, the ground rushing under her delicate paws. Ransom needed this connection to nature more than anything. Well, almost. It would have been complete and satisfying if she hadn't been so completely alone in the world. Try as she might, she couldn't outrun her pain or the bitter taste of her own betrayal in her mouth.

Reaching the edge of the wood, she circled back to cross the island again. Being an island, she couldn't go far, but it was enough for her to work off some of the anguish she couldn't shake. Moon and Stars, she had been stupid. She should have told Horus the truth to begin with. He would have helped her and Tam get out of the debt that had been held over them. He could have talked to Quentin, maybe smoothed things over with the Ferrell Pack Master. As a Pack Master himself, he had that power and authority. Now, it was all lost. Her father was dead, and she didn't even know where to find his body. Horus despised her for her lies, and she couldn't even blame him because she was just as sick of it herself.

A fresh wash of pain rolled through her and she had to stop to catch her breath. It was more than she could contain, more than she could handle. Throwing back her head she howled at the waxing moon. It was a sound full of emotion and pain. It was so plaintive a cry that it would have brought a resounding response of support had she been with others of her kind. Alone, it echoed across the night sky, unanswered. Her muscles bunched and she started to spring into a run, but soon slowed and dropped to the ground in a heap. Her muzzle rested on her outstretched forepaws. By the Moon, she was tired. Tired and alone. It was no use. She couldn't run fast enough or hard enough to leave it all behind.

Horus heard the plaintive howl as he ran east across the island. Her scent was so strong now it filled his head and burned his blood. He was still running when he almost tripped over her suitcase. He recognized it at once, but was surprised to see it lying open and most of the contents scattered about the grass. Some of the dresses had been shredded to pieces, and Horus could only guess at the anguish Ransom was feeling at his rejection.

When he heard her howling, he knew he needed to change to be with her.

He ran further on and passed several people rushing past him in the other direction. The park didn't have that many visitors this late at night, and the howling of a wolf on the island got what few visitors there were rapidly heading the other way.

He took another deep breath and caught her scent again, but this time it came from two different directions. One was further ahead, and it was strong and filled with her musk, and he knew at once it was her. The second was softer and lighter and when he moved over to it he found her clothes, pushed deep under a bush.

It had been deliberate then, this change. She hadn't lied to the young couple when she claimed she'd wanted to ‘see the moon'. When a Lycan shifted, they were blessed with the ability to absorb whatever clothing they were wearing into the shift with them. It was something that was trained and developed in them at a young age, so they would be able to mingle with humanity more frequently and easily. Unfortunately, the contact with the clothing while shifted gave an uncomfortable itch over a long period of time. Most Lycan's preferred the feeling of being au naturelle if they could. Obviously, Ransom had wanted that tonight, wanting nothing more than to be as natural as possible under the moon's light.

Horus came to his decision easily. If this was what she felt, and what she wanted, to be free of the shackles of humanity, he would not deny her. He had denied her too much already, and he was simply too eager to see her again. He quickly stripped down until he was naked, and he pushed his own clothes in with hers. There was no room to stack them neatly and their clothing ended up mixed together in a jumbled disarray.

Horus looked at the pile briefly, noting with irony that even their clothing was in chaos.

He heard her howl again, but it was soft and weak. It was not the call of a hunter. It was the call of a lonely bitch. His own change took but a moment, and the sleek black fur that covered his body almost shone in the moonlight. He raised his head to the sky and howled long and loud.

I have come, my mate. Wait for me.

Then he bounded through the trees with her scent strong in his nose and her taste on his tongue. Horus knew his blood would not cool until he found her.

When he broke into the clearing at the edge of the tree line, he found her there. She was on all fours and she was watching him, her eyes uncertain. Her tail had drooped low, tucked between her legs and Horus knew she was frightened of what he might do to her.

He approached her slowly, knowing his size alone was intimidating enough. When he was within twenty feet, he turned sideways to her. Offering her his flanks, and making himself vulnerable. He chuffed at the air, and took in a deep breath, showing her that he wanted to be there, with her.

When she didn't move, he moved closer to her, and again, he offered her his flank, and again, she did not attack.

Finally, he stood in front of her.

He nuzzled at her snout, basking in her scent. He licked the side of her head, tasting her. He felt her tongue lick his fur, and he trembled at the touch and feel of it. She was whimpering as he circled her, and he sniffed at her flanks and her sex, and the rumble of desire filled his chest in a deep, low growl.

Ransom whimpered again as she sniffed at his own flanks, sensing the need on him. She knew he was larger, and such a powerful wolf that he could take her easily, and she did not want to fight him. She felt his tongue stroke the length of her sex and her body trembled. She growled low in her chest, showing her own desire. Then his head was level with hers once again, and their muzzles rubbed against each other. Their tongues flickered out and tasted fur, and flesh.

She keened softly against his neck, reveling in the feel of his fur along her own face. She needed this most basic contact. She needed to see him, as nature had intended for him to be, and she was overwhelmed with the power that filled his body.

He started shifting first, but even before he was completely human she too had begun to shift. Within seconds they were naked, standing in the open glade under the moonlight.

He took her gently into his arms and kissed her. He tasted her tears on his tongue and felt her body tremble next to his. He wanted to say something to her, but suddenly words seemed so inadequate and useless. Then his mouth closed on hers and they tumbled to the grass together, their lips joined and their soft sighs were the only sounds that filled the glade.

Ransom hadn't believed her ears when she had heard his howl, and she couldn't believe her eyes when he had stepped into the glade. Her mind told her it was impossible for Horus to be here. She had completely dashed any hope he might care for her. He couldn't be real. Her mind was playing tricks on her and in her emotional distress, she had believed it because she needed to so desperately.

Then he was there. His mouth on hers, his lips kissing her, and his hands touching her body. The cold that had settled over her bones and into her very soul, thawed at the heat of his presence. She whimpered, taking the kiss deeper even as her hands roamed his strong, broad back. She was drowning in him and couldn't seem to garner the strength to come up for air. She didn't care about anything but that Horus was there with her. Holding her. His strong arms would keep the world at bay for a little while.

Horus couldn't function beyond the kiss. His mind was slow and sluggish, her mouth was intoxicating him like a drug he would never lose his addiction for. He only lifted his head when the need to breathe became too strong. Their eyes met and held, hers fearful and confused with just a spark of hope. His just as conflicted with a heavy dose of pain added.

"I'm sorry.” Ransom said after a long moment. “I'm so sorry.” Her lips trembled and though she thought her tears had been spent, she found her eyes wet once again.

"Why didn't you tell me?” Horus asked softly, his breath brushing her face as he trailed feather light kisses along the bruise darkening still under her eye. He made no move to release her, his larger body pinning hers to the ground. She was breaking his heart with her quiet acceptance of her injuries, both physical and emotional. He had yet to hear her complain about either, which only made him love her more.

"At first I thought I could avoid an emotional entanglement for both of us and then ... I couldn't. After you told me about Janise, I couldn't hurt you like that again. I tried to keep my distance, tried to figure out how to just be so annoying you would be glad to see my tail padding away. But then you would do or say something so sweet and I just melted. I couldn't be difficult to you; you got around me every damn time. I should have walked out this afternoon while everyone was sleeping, but you reached for me and called my name...” She met his eyes steadily, never flinching or looking away. This was Ransom. The reasons and emotions she shared with him were bald and genuine. “I'm so sorry."

He kissed her lips gently, forgiving everything in that soft touch. “It's my fault, too, you know.” He whispered gently. “When I first saw you I thought of Janise, and you knew that. But later, I knew you weren't her. You weren't even close. And with each touch, every laugh,” he chuckled, “even that silly way you push your hair out of your eyes ... I kept putting you on a bigger and bigger pedestal.” She was about to say something when he put his finger to her lips. “No. I saw you as perfection, and I didn't want to see your faults. And then...” He brushed the tear from her eye with the edge of his thumb. “Ransom, I was as angry at myself as I was at you, but you bore the brunt of all my anger.” He kissed her lips again. “Can you forgive me?"

Her lips closed on his once more and for the next few moments neither felt the need to say a word.

"I never dreamed you'd come back.” Ransom sighed when they broke their kiss.

He laughed and told her how he'd run through the streets in his wolfen form, chasing down her scent. “I think Ulric will have something to say about me chasing my bitch through the city, though."

She laughed with him, and as her chest rose and fell underneath him, he delighted in the sound of her laughter. “Don't tell him."

Horus nodded. “Good idea."

Then they were laughing again, and Horus drank in the bright spark of Ransom's eyes as she looked up at him. He grinned and kissed her neck, and the laughter caught in her throat to become a soft sigh.

He kissed her again, and again, and each kiss made her sigh with delight. Her sire had come back for her. His knee settled between her thighs, pushing them apart as he nestled himself in the crux of her legs.

Then he rose above her, bracing himself on his elbows and looking down into her eyes, smiling. “Welcome back, my mate.” He whispered as he eased inside her. Her gasp of pleasure and her bright smile filled him and fueled his blood so that he felt the world around him disappear, except for her touch, and her smile and her sighs of delight at his presence.

Ransom could hardly believe the turn her life had taken in so short a time. Ten minutes ago, she had been alone and abandoned. Cast out and unwanted. Now, as she felt him fill her, and move inside her, she was home. Home in the arms of her sire. He had even gone so far as to call her mate. Her breath caught in her throat and she held his gaze as he moved over her. She wouldn't close her eyes or lose one instant of this moment. It was too much to hope for that it would last, so she would take it now and cherish every heartbeat of it. Her hands ran over his skin, touching every part of him. She wanted to taste, but was unwilling to break the contact of their gazes to do so. Touching him was enough.

Every vestige of the chill that had gripped her vanished in a rush as he turned her blood to lava. Horus had never needed much to have her hot and ready for him, and he was more than willing to take advantage of at the moment. His eyes held hers, watching the play of emotions cross her face. There was no veil or hint of deceit. What he was seeing in her was genuine and true. She was giving herself to him, bare and without pretense, and he took her greedily.

Even as their motions became more urgent to sate the lusts of their bodies, neither looked away or closed their eyes. They needed to see each other in their most vulnerable moments. Each had displayed strength for the other, and now it was a weakness that fed the need for a release only the other could give. He took her over the peak, sending her into spasms of ecstasy, and still she held his gaze fast.

His name whispered against his own skin was a greater aphrodisiac than any he had ever experienced as he dipped into her heat with long, even strokes. As he loved her, Horus felt a thrilling power he had never known before. He saw her delight in her eyes, and he saw his own love for her reflected in those same beautiful orbs. He felt Ransom's need to taste him, to touch her lips to his, and he obliged her. When their lips touched their sighs of pleasure mingled and became indistinguishable from each other, their union was so complete.

As their kiss broke they again looked into each other's eyes, and after her first spasm broached her, he brought her on to a second. Now there was no need for silence, no need to restrain the urgency of what they both felt. Now there was only a need to complete this union, and make each other whole.

She cried out his name as she peaked again, and he accepted her praise with grace. He filled her with himself and Ransom gasped with each stroke, reveling in his touch and his need, and the soft, gentle manner he took her. She thrilled in the knowledge that he was hers now, and that she would never be alone again. Finally, Horus could hold himself back no longer. He pushed himself off his elbows, so that his muscular arms were like pillars of granite beside her head, and he pushed even deeper than he had before. He felt her legs wrap around his waist as she lifted her hips to meet him, accepting him, and all that he gave her.

He cried out her name when he released himself inside her, the fire in his blood consuming him. With each spasm that shook him, he whispered her name on the air, so that her being surrounded him, lifting him up and filling him, even as he filled her with his seed.

He needed to close his eyes, to calm himself, so that he did not fall onto her, or crush her. Gently, and with great care, he lowered himself once more to his elbows above her, before opening his eyes. He was stunned and frightened to see tears at her eyes, and for a brief moment he thought he had hurt her with his strength and his size. Almost at once he realized they were not tears of pain, but of joy.

Then their lips touched once more.

Ransom had no words for the emotion rolling within her. This gentle giant that treated her with such infinite care, and was such a rare prize, she once again felt unworthy of his attention. She had seen him kill with his bare hands. She had watched as that incredible strength turned to destruction and violence, yet never with her. Even when she had made him so angry he couldn't speak, he had never hurt her. Not on a physical level. She had done her own damage in that regard.

As her body cooled under his, a frown touched her lips. “Mistress Kiera? Is she alright?” Guilt tore at her once again at the thought of the Mistress bound and chained due to her own stupidity.

Horus saw the change in her and his heart sank a little. He wasn't ready to let go of the beauty or peace of the moment or let the real world intrude on their safe haven. It was more than he could bear to see the shadows return to her eyes so soon. Gently he touched her bruised cheek with his fingertips, bracing himself on one arm. “Mistress Kiera will be fine. She insisted I come after you and bring you back. She's very worried about you."

"How can she ever forgive me? I betrayed her and told her enemies where she was. I wasn't strong enough or fast enough to fight them off. She is a Mistress and I should have protected her with my life, instead, I let them take her.” It was a form of freedom to confess her sins. To give them voice and let the air carry them far from her.

"You did not do it intentionally. Tell me, who did you think you were talking to?” The question was asked softly with no accusation. Horus knew the answer but he wanted Ransom to realize the truth for herself.

"My father.” She answered immediately. “I thought he was concerned about my safety. I wanted to reassure him. To let him know I was in the best hands I could be. I thought telling him that I was with two Masters and a Mistress, that he wouldn't need to be worried. He seemed so anxious after the fight at the bar ... only it wasn't him was it? He was already dead wasn't he?” Realization of how she had been played and manipulated dawned on her slowly, giving her some measure of comfort that it hadn't all been her fault.

"I don't know when he was killed, my love. Or even why. It may even be that he fought them when he learned how they were using you. I can not believe your father would have stood for that for very long, no matter his debt.” He didn't know if that was true or not, but by the way her eyes filled with tears at the thought of her father dying to protect her, Horus knew it was the right thing to say.

He rolled to his side and carried her over with him. Her leg naturally went over his in a natural position of protection and ownership.

He chuckled and smiled. “As to Mistress Kiera, I think she sees a kindred spirit in you somewhere. You are stronger, my beautiful love, than you realize. And Amris...” He laughed again, “He threatened to kick my ass if I didn't come get you."

Ransom couldn't stop the laugh and Horus felt his heart tighten at the pleasant sound of her happiness.

"Don't worry about Amris or Kiera, Ransom. They are more concerned for your safety than even their own. It is what makes them who they are.” Horus’ hand went to the side of Ransom's face and he gently brushed the hair to the side so he could look upon her full beauty. “And your concern for their safety over your own proves you are worthy of being my Mistress."

Hector staggered against the stack of trash and cardboard boxes in the alleyway and sent them tumbling to the ground. Everything had gone wrong. He didn't know how it had suddenly turned into garbage, but it had. The warehouse was a shambles. Marco, the Norm contact in the city had turned on them and had to be put down. Carlos was dead. Even the two guards he had left at the house as security were dead.

Hector knew at once who was responsible. Horus. That big, brutish clod. No one else would have had the strength to break a Lycan's neck, or crush a Lycan's skull. Only Horus could have done it, and Hector knew why. That slut Ransom had lied to him! He had been fooled into believing that crap about a statement. There was no statement. No confession! It had all been a great big lie to go and get her false lover and bring him to the rescue.

A wave of pain flushed through him and he had to lean against the wall of the building to catch his breath. Moon and Stars, he hurt. Who would have thought little Marco would be so damned hard to kill? He pushed himself off the wall and staggered down the alley to the roadway. His objective was only a block away, but he needed to stay in the shadows. He was badly wounded and lacking any support or back up. He had managed to find a newer bandage at the safe house to wrap around his knee, but the cloth was still damp with his blood. The last thing he needed anyone to see was how vulnerable he was.

He waited until the street was clear before staggering down the block and pushing the door open to the clinic. All over the world, Lycans and Others had learned to take care of themselves, while also infiltrating the human community in key positions. They took the duties of judges, lawyers, doctors, and all types of professions and positions. It was a matter of survival. Even so, sometimes, like here in Detroit, they were lucky enough to find a Norm that didn't care that they were a little bit different, without knowing how deep those differences ran.

Dr. Hope Anderson was just such a Norm. An attractive human woman in her late thirties, Dr. Anderson occasionally had been used by local packs for emergency repairs when their own doctors weren't available.

She did the stitching up of slashes and bites, healing bullet damage, all done silently and under the protection of her oath of secrecy for her patients. She knew the Lycan were different without knowing how. She never questioned them when they came to her door, and she never judged them. She simply treated them, and accepted the payment not only to her, but to her clinic as well.

Though the human might be loath to admit it, Hector knew the donations provided by the Lycan community were what kept her clinic active and able to help so many more. When he staggered through her clinic door bleeding and beaten, he knew Dr. Anderson wouldn't ask questions. He grunted as the human bitch simply opened up the back of the clinic and guided him to a sheltered area to be treated.

It took the doctor fifteen minutes to stitch up his leg and another ten to clean and dress the puncture wound through his knee. She told him he would require surgery now to repair his shattered kneecap, and would probably even need a metal replacement.

Hector mentally laughed at that thought. What would it be? Stainless steel? By the Moon, Hector knew he was in serious trouble. When Duke Talon got wind of this screw up, Falen was going to kill him. He had to do something to make it right.

As he lay back, trying to come up with some way he could possibly fix the fiasco he overheard another of the good doctor's patients talking.

"Word is there's some wild dog loose out on Belle Isle. Some people come off the island talking about some kind of baying and howling. Say it might be some kind of rabid wolf."

"Rabid animals don't howl. They froth at the mouth. There's too much saliva to howl.” Another voice answered, this one male.

"Shit. Well, what about that report an hour ago of a giant wolf running through the streets? Probably the same animal.” A third voice chimed in.

"No. The zoo guy has already been on the news and let everyone know that all they're animals are safe. It's not one of theirs.” The male voice replied, clearly trying to keep the other two from hysteria.

"So where did it come from then?” the first voice asked, a bit bewildered.

"I don't know. But then I don't go out to the island that much anyway.” The third voice replied. The strangers’ discussion quickly turned into a debate around people who kept strange pets in their home, and a city that did nothing to keep these animals off the street. Hector's interest quickly faded, other than to consider who this strange wolf might actually be.

Ransom. That little whore. It had to be her. The Masters and locals were too smart to pulling stunts like that, and Kiera was way too fucked up after her time in the chains. It had to be Ransom. Hector nodded to himself, remembering his promise to her.

He had one bullet left. Her father had taken two hours to die after being shot in the right foot. He wondered how long it would take Ransom to die if he shot her in the left. He eased himself from the table and grunted with pain when his leg hit the floor.

Brushing aside Dr. Anderson's orders to remain where he was, Hector shoved his way through the small group in the clinic and back outside. He was hurt and he was bleeding. He knew the Duke was likely going to order him killed for this disaster, but if he was going to go down, then he was going to take that double crossing whore with him.

"It is Ra.” The deep, bass voice on the other side of the door filled Kiera with relief. It had been less than an hour since she had contacted the Weret second in command. He must have flown to Detroit to get here so quickly.

She checked the peephole and could only see the huge man's chest, but there was no hiding Shiri's red hair. It seemed the two had become inseparable since the conclusion of the Challenges over two weeks past. Kiera was both inwardly and outwardly pleased that her former rival had found such a strong sire. It was fairly certain that only a sire of Ra's strength would have any chance controlling the impetuous bitch.

She opened the door and hustled them both in from the hallway. When the door closed and she managed to get a good look at the pair, she was startled with how worn and tired Shiri looked. Worse, she looked scared to death.

"What is it?” Kiera asked at once, her own concerns momentarily put aside. Her Pack sister was in distress, and she needed to deal with that.

"It's Cheri.” Shiri said softly. “She's gone. She left looking for Silas two nights ago, and no word has been heard from either of them since then."

"Then we will find them.” Kiera didn't say anything to Shiri about Carlos’ final words. Carlos hadn't said anything about Cheri in his ravings and that might mean the young girl was still all right. It might also mean that Silas, too, was all right.

Amris stood and spoke briefly with Ra. “Your Master left an hour ago to find Ransom, but Kiera and I feel he is in great danger. Hector Lunatier has been apparently organizing a rebellion against the Masters in these five states. He naturally sees Horus as a threat and he is out there, right now, looking for him. We need to find Horus and Ransom before Hector does."

Then he added the worse news. “We have every reason to believe that Hector has a weapon with the silver bullets. This will not be easy."

Ra shrugged. “Nothing about Master Horus is easy.” Ra looked around the room and then added, “So, why are we all still sitting here?"

"And your concern for their safety over your own proves you are worthy of being my Mistress."

Ransom went very still, the light in her eyes dying along with the smile on her lips. “Don't Horus ... that's cruel.” She tried to pull away from him and rise to her feet, but he held her fast against him. There was no mistaking the hurt and confusion in his eyes at her reaction.

"You don't honestly think we can make anything out of this after what I've done. It's the heat of the moment making you talk like this. It's cruel for you to even talk about making what we have permanent. Do you really want to spend the rest of your life doubting your mate? Wondering if she's genuine or just putting on a front? You would grow to hate yourself for the constant need for validation of my feelings, and you would hate me in the process. I don't blame you for any of that. I made a mistake. A big one. It's all on me, not you. But really, think about what it would mean to be Bonded to me. What it would do to you."

She tried to pull away again and this time he let her go, unwilling to hold on to her when she so desperately wanted to be released. She sprang to her feet and took a step back from him. “I just want you to be happy ... and I ... can't make you happy."

Horus moved to a sitting position and shook his head, the itching sensation had returned and her couldn't stay still. “No. I would never be cruel to you, Ransom, and there's no way I could ever doubt you again. Genuine? Can you look me in the eyes and tell me that what we just shared wasn't genuine?"

Horus moved smoothly to his feet and stepped over to her. She put up her hand to ward him back, but he simply took it in his hand and pressed it to his chest. “Do you feel that heart beat, Ransom? If you try and walk away now, you might as well kill me. I look at you and it beats faster. I touch you and my blood fills with everything you are.” Horus shook his head. “You didn't make a mistake. You were deceived.” He paused for a moment, letting that sink in before he continued. “If you really and truly want to make me happy, then you'll stay at my side, and let me use your strength when I feel weak, and you'll give me all the love you possibly can, just as I will give you my own.” His arm wrapped around her waist and he pulled her close.

"I want you, Ransom. I want you to be my dam. I want you to be my mate. And I want you to be my Mistress. Do you truly want to deny me what we both want?"

Ransom was unable to deny the truth of his words or the honesty in his eyes. He did want her. Despite it all, he really and truly wanted her. “I could never deny you anything.” She said softly, amazed at the words that had come from him. After all she had done, she was going to be his mate. She would be his lover and Mistress and most of all, his companion. Horus was everything she had ever wanted in a mate and more, and here he was handing her the opportunity to have him on a sterling platter. With a soft sigh of contentment and surrender, she let him pull her against him and snuggled her cheek upon his chest. “I love you."

It was hard not to find anything other than the report of escaped wolves roaming the city on any radio station. The first reports of howling wolves out on Belle Isle had become phoned in reports to the media about wolves running through the city streets. More and more reports were coming in every few minutes and if they were to believed, there was a rabid wolf on almost every street corner of the Motor City.

"—the police are reminding everyone to remain calm. As of this report there are no confirmed sightings of any wolves in Detroit or its outlying suburbs. Police are advising all civilians to stay away from Belle Isle until that area is secured.” The newscaster's tone sounded a little more frantic than it should have for a professional, but the vast number of reported sightings was making this story more than a passing interest to everyone.

Shiri turned the volume down on the radio and looked into the back seat where Amris and Kiera were resting together, regaining their strength. As harrowing as Kiera's ordeal had been, the Bond was now helping them both recover even faster. Their close proximity was allowing them to share their innate healing factor and amplify it.

"Either of you know where this Belle Isle is?” Ra asked after a moment's silence. “At a guess it's got to be in the Detroit River somewhere, but the shoreline is pretty long.” Both Amris and Kiera shook their heads. Neither of them had time to do a proper reconnaissance of the area, and that failure was eating up precious time.

"Ransom was the one with the maps.” Kiera replied. “She downloaded them onto that phone of hers.” She didn't add that it was also Ransom's efforts that had found Marco, and in turn had led to the rapid discovery and destruction of the bullet factory, as well as his statement.

"We need to get directions. There's a service centre, we need a map.” Amris had no problem making decisions or taking charge now. He knew Kiera was safe in his arms and his strength was coming back to him in steady waves. In another hour or so, he knew he would be his old self.

Ra swung the car around in a tight one-eighty, rolled up to the side of the service station's main building and jammed on the brakes. Shiri bounded out of the car and raced inside before the car had even come to a complete stop. They could see her arguing with the clerk after she grabbed a map off the rack and had started to leave. In her haste, she hadn't picked up her purse off the floor of the car and she had no money to pay for the map.

The clerk was yelling and shouting at her, so she reached over, grabbed him by the top of the head and bounced his forehead off the counter. As he dropped out of sight behind the register, Shiri wiped her hand on her jacket.

Ra just grinned. “What a bitch."

"—Police are advising all civilians to stay away from Belle Isle until that area is secured."

Hector turned the radio off and pressed down on the gas. From everything he had heard on the street, and on the radio, the Belle Isle sighting was the strongest one. As he thought more about it, it made perfect sense. The island was isolated from the city, it had plenty of park ground for Ransom to run around in, and the little whore was probably feeling a little down right about now. He could only imagine Amris’ reaction when he found out the little slut had handed them his wife.

Though, for the life of him, Hector couldn't figure out why Amris hadn't just killed the bitch. Hector would have. Hell, that's what he was on his way to do now.

Horus couldn't believe his good fortune. Ransom had surrendered to him. He had shattered her arguments into dust, and now, all he could feel was the warmth of her skin against his own, and the soft beating of her heart.

He cupped her face and gently turned it to face him, before he kissed her gently on the mouth. Once he guided her back to the ground, her smile of acceptance filled his heart. He had no difficulty slipping inside her once more, but this time, he had more on his mind than simply loving her.

He moved gently within her and as she wrapped her arms around his neck he smiled down into her beaming face. Then he laughed and nipped at her nose. When she nipped at his in return, he started chuckling with her and soon they had to stop what they were doing so they could stop laughing.

Before he resumed his loving, Horus’ eyes grew serious. They had said many things and made many promises, but nothing was certain until he heard the words from her lips.

"Ransom ... I ... we...” He had never said the words before. Janise had left him before he could commit to her, but now that the moment was at hand, he felt the need to say them as he never would have before.

"I accept you, Ransom, as my mate."

Ransom shivered, his words touching her to the very core. She had to catch her breath before trusting her voice to work. “I accept you, Horus, as my mate."

The ritual words wrapped around his heart and infused into his soul. His mate. His love. Ransom would be his for all time now and nothing could ever separate them. He hooked his arms under her legs, raising them so her ankles rested on his shoulders as he drove himself deep into her.

Ransom couldn't contain her delight. Her emotional joy mixed with the pleasures of her body and she cried out her release as her inner muscles tightly gripped him. Her arms stretched out from her sides, and her fingers dug into the earth, giving her purchase, as her mate filled her once more.

Horus couldn't help but smile, loving the sights and sounds of Ransom in the thralls of her orgasm. He would keep her there permanently if he could. As it was, he was able to hold out until she had climaxed twice more before he was unable to control himself any longer and once again, emptied himself into her.

"I love you too.” Horus said with a grin. Her beaming smile made him smile in return. “And because I love you, we're going to head back to the hotel. I really shouldn't have kept us out this long. It's dangerous out here and we should have gotten out of the open a long time ago."

Slowly, Horus withdrew from the warmth of Ransom's body. She almost grabbed him and pulled him back to her, but he was right. They had spent far too long on the island for it to be safe. He cradled her to him as he rose to his feet, unwilling to break physical contact just yet. It was hard enough to release her to put her feet on the ground, and Horus only did so with a sigh of reluctance.

"We'll need to collect our clothes first. As much as I don't want to, I'm going to leave you here to wait for me. I'll go get our clothes and we can get dressed before we head back to civilization.” Then he gave her an apologetic smile “Your body is too perfect, too beautiful for me to want others to see it. That should be a privilege reserved for me alone."

It was a silly sentiment considering they were both Lycan. The chances of Ransom never being naked around others, even after they were Bonded, was slim. Especially on the night of the full moon, but she would humor him. “Alright.” The agreement was made easily though she didn't release her hold on his hands.

Horus leaned in and kissed her softly, pulling from her grip so he could cup her face in his hands, then he was gone. Just like that. One moment his lips were on hers, and the next he was nowhere to be seen. A burst of supernatural speed sent him through the trees so fast he was a blur.

Hector rolled onto the Douglas MacArthur Bridge linking Belle Isle to the mainland about three minutes before the first police cruiser showed up to try and keep people off the island. It was a wasted effort of course. This was America and there were just as many people trying to get off the island, and away from the insane wolf pack, as there were trying to get on the island for exclusive pictures to sell to the news.

Hector swerved around some Norms who were rushing in the opposite direction, ignoring their curses and profane gestures. He would just kill them later.

He swerved past the gate at the far end of the bridge and rolled onto the island proper. The island was broken down into a myriad of parks and roadways and even boasted its own golf course. He didn't think Ransom would head for the golf course because of how open it was, so he rolled over to the largest wooded park and stopped his car.

He climbed out and took a fast whiff of the air. He hadn't been around Ransom long enough to get a firm scent, so he had to rely on trying to locate and find a strong female musk. That would lead him right to her.

After a moment, he had it. Hector couldn't suppress his grin as he pulled the pistol from his pocket and headed into the woods that made up the park. “Say your prayers, you little double crossing whore. Hector's coming to kill you."

Ransom stood in the glade for a moment, listening to the night sounds, naked and alone. Without Horus beside her, she suddenly felt exposed and vulnerable. She wrapped her arms around herself and turned in a slow circle, as her nerves stretched tighter and tighter. She couldn't stay here. Not like this. If she were close by when Horus found their clothes, they would be able to dress and leave sooner.

Her decision to follow him made, she followed the direction Horus had taken alone, knowing where she had hidden her clothes as well as he did.

When Ra pulled up to the gate at the end of the bridge causeway, the officer in charge just glared at him. “Look buddy, there is no way I can let more people onto that island. You're going to have to turn around."

Ra flashed him a quick look at his wallet and the shiny glitter of an official looking badge. “I'm Inspector Weret. Special Investigations Unit."

"Special ... what?” The cop shook his head. “Never heard of it."

Ra looked the cop square in the eye. “You have now.” Then he pointed at the barrier. “Move it."

"I can't let you on that island with a car load of civvies. Even if I did believe that badge. Which I don't.” The human officer was clearly shaken, his broken sentences more than evidence of that though he was obviously trying to keep his expression cool and professional.

Ra looked the cop dead in the eyes and didn't say a word. The moment stretched with neither man backing down, until the cop blinked under Ra's hard glare.

The cop licked his lips and started raising the gate. “Who are the rest of these people?"

Ra was already rolling onto the bridge, and his voice was as calm and steady as if he were discussing the weather on a sunny day. “Advisors."

Hector moved with incredible stealth considering his wounds, and gripped the gun even tighter. One bullet. He had one shot to put the whore out of his misery. He would make sure it was as slow and painful as possible. He licked his lips in anticipation of every scream as she died. He remembered how Ransom's name had been on Tam's lips as he died. He wondered if the bitch would scream for Tam ... or Horus. The wind shifted suddenly and his nostrils filled with a much stronger scent. As soon as he realized what it was, his eyes lit up with unconcealed glee.

To hell with the bitch, he thought, there was bigger and better game to be caught on this island. Giving up on stealth, he moved more confidently through the trees, certain his presence was not expected or even considered. Now he caught the heavy musk of sex was on the wind. Hector couldn't help but grin. Maybe if he was lucky, he could take them both out at once. He would make Ransom watch as he killed her lover, then it would be her turn.

Horus found the bushes under which Ransom had stashed her clothes, then he, his own. He knelt to remove them, only to find they had not only tangled with each other but with the branches of the bush as well. It took him a few minutes to untangle the mess and he chuckled at the irony of it all. Even their clothes reflected their relationship. What had started out as chaos, and a jumbled mess was now being untangled and put in order. He was careful with the branches and brambles, not wanting to tear her clothes in his haste. After all, he reasoned, there was no great hurry.

As he worked, Horus marveled at how much his life had changed since Ransom had come into it. That first night had been a game between them both. It had begun as just a chance to have some fun together. Over the last couple of days it had changed into so much more, and now he was going back home with a mate.

His mate. He almost laughed aloud, he was so happy. He had a mate.

Ransom had nearly caught up to Horus, so close she could see him through a break in the trees as she advanced. She had started running forward to his side, ready to call out to him, when she caught the glint of metal from the corner of her eye and drew in a breath to call a warning.

Hector stood not fifteen feet away, hidden by foliage and downwind. He had a pistol aimed at Horus’ back but seemed to be having trouble getting a clear shot while Horus was crouched on the ground. She couldn't know it, but Hector needed to know the gel-cap wouldn't burst on the branches or brambles that Horus was working in before it hit its target.

Ra drove them through the park with the windows rolled down on all sides of the car. He was driving slow enough that not only the scents of the park filled the car, but the sounds as well. He didn't know how sensitive Shiri's senses were, but Ra relied on the fact that he and Kiera were trained Hunters, and Amris was a Master. Surely one of them would be able to pick up Horus’ scent. Once they did, then it would only be a matter of time before they collected Horus and Ransom and got the hell out of the city.

It took about five minutes of slow driving, but almost as one they all recognized his scent in the air.

"That's him.” Amris called out.

"Got him.” Kiera smiled with her mate.

Ra grunted out a short, “Yes."

Shiri said, “Sex. I smell sex.” Then she grinned ear to ear. “I guess he found her."

Kiera laughed. Amris and Ra both grinned.

"Good. Then let's go get them, and get out of here.” Kiera's patience was wearing thin. Of them all, only she knew about Silas’ disappearance, and she knew it was urgent they find Horus and Ransom and leave. They had learned and accomplished all they could here in Detroit, and it was time to move on.

When they stepped out of the vehicle, Ra pointed over to a low copse of tress to the south. “He is over there, about fifty meters away.” Amris and Kiera started off in the indicated direction at once, while Shiri waited for Ra. The big Lycan took a short moment to shift, and then howled into the night. I have come, Master. It is time to go.

Ransom was about to scream a warning, but the cry caught in her throat. She knew that if she made a sound, Horus would turn to her and give Hector his shot.

Ransom was about to charge Hector when a howl broke the stillness of the night. Horus rose, making himself a clear target. Ransom didn't pause, didn't think, she just acted. There wasn't time for a warning, he would just turn and make himself even more of a target. Pushing herself she ran as fast as she had ever run in her life toward her mate. As she soared through the air, she threw herself over him with a leap that would have made an Olympic athlete proud.

She hit him in the back, her arms wrapping around his chest when the gunshot boomed, flushing the birds out of the trees.

When the bullet hit her, Ransom didn't realize what had happened. She felt the sudden blossoming pain just under her left shoulder, as the air was blown from her lungs. She needed to breathe just to be able to scream, but no sound came from her lips.

She felt herself falling and wanted to bring her hands up to catch herself, but she seemed to have forgotten how to do that. She hit the ground hard and rolled onto her back. If she had thought the impact of the bullet had been painful before, she was suddenly introduced to an even greater pain now.

The silver gel head had burst.

Horus felt her slam into his body, just as he heard the gunshot. He had turned with her as she spun through the air, but had been too disoriented to try and catch her. When she hit the ground, all he saw was the blood, and all he smelled was the sickly smell of silver.

"RAAANSOOOM!” He screamed in agonized pain, as if he were the one who had been shot. He was completely unaware their attacker was close by. He didn't hear the sounds of the running feet as Amris and the others rushed through the brush toward them. His entire world focused only on his mate ... his Mistress ... his love ... lying in the grass in an ever widening puddle of her blood.

Hector knew he had a chance now to finish off the great Horus. All he had to do was step up and snap the giant oaf's neck. The fool wasn't even paying attention, wasting his time on the whore. Yet, Hector did hear the others coming, and he had heard Ra's howl, and he cursed his wasted opportunity to give Duke Talon this gift.

He shifted to his hybrid form, clutching the now useless pistol in his hand. Although hobbled by his bad knee, he would still be able to run quicker this way, and his vehicle was not far. With luck, he would make his escape. At least he had the satisfaction of knowing with the whore dead, he had all but killed Horus anyway. The Master would be a useless shell of his former self. He would be easy pickings in the upcoming struggle. Maybe that gift would be enough for Falen to allow him to keep his head.

Hector heard the rest of them getting closer and knew it was time to flee, so he turned on his heels and dashed in the opposite direction, leaving Horus and his dying bitch alone in the woods.

Horus crawled to Ransom's side and gathered her into his arms. “Ransom ... Why? Why? Gods, Ransom ... please ... talk to me.” His eyes filled with tears and he felt useless and small. Then she opened her eyes and screamed.

Kiera and Amris rushed through the trees, finding Horus and Ransom just as Horus was pulling Ransom into his arms. Ransom was screaming in pain. Kiera's eyes flooded with tears and she froze. Ra and Shiri came behind, taking in the tableau before them and they too came up short, staring in shock.

Ransom saw Kiera over Horus’ shoulder and forced the pain away for a moment, trying to smile through the waves of burning agony. “Kiera ... you're better...” She bit her lip as a wave of agony washed over her, and she trembled in Horus’ arms. When she opened her eyes once more she whispered, “Such a beautiful Ceremony ... you ... beautiful ... I'm sorry."

The tears streamed down Kiera's cheeks and she rushed to Ransom's side, wanting to be with her, and hold her just as she had her brother. It was impossible, Horus would not loosen his hold on Ransom, cradling her to him as if to keep her from floating away.

Ransom smiled sadly into Horus’ eyes, knowing her own death was imminent. The pain crawling through her body was more than she could stand. Darkness closed in at the edges of her vision. “I love you.” Ransom couldn't be sure if she actually said it or not. She hoped she had, because Horus deserved to know it.

"I love you, Ransom. You can't die...” His voice was hoarse with tears.

Suddenly he knew what he had to do. Horus had only seconds to act before the silver made it to Ransom's heart, destroying the tissue. He didn't think, didn't pause. “I'm sorry.” He said as he pulled her chest to his, exposing the bloody wound to his eyes. His hands distorted and shifted into claws in an instant. He got a good look at the terrible wound, spider-webs of silver spreading from the impact zone into her body.

With a cry of anguish, he dug his clawed fingers into the wound, grabbing as much of the molten silver as he could.

He cried out in rage and pain as the silver contacted his skin. The molten metal singed his hand burning deeply into his skin and he wept at the pain. His tears fell freely, as he shared the pain Ransom was suffering, and he feared that she would die in his arms. He was a Master and she was his Dam, he would not let her go gently.

"Master!” Ra's voice was tinged with fear. Horus was their Pack Master, and the silver was as deadly to him as it was to the bitch. When Horus cried out in agony as the silver scalded him, Shiri wept and Ra clenched his fists, wishing that he could take his Master's pain. Horus was committed now, and Ra could only watch in stunned silence at his Master's sacrifice.

Ransom was out of her mind with pain, screaming and struggling in Horus’ grip. The burning of the silver had somehow gotten worse, and she felt shards of steel and silver gouging her flesh. She was beyond coherent thought now, unable to feel anything beyond the agony in her back.

"Amris!” Horus cried out as he pulled the first sinewy strands of silver from the wound. Shiri was sickened at the sight, as the fibers of that deadly metal waved in the night breeze, glinting in the moon light. Several of the silver fibers had hooked into Horus’ forearm, finding purchase there. Horus hurled as much of the metal from his hand as he could and it landed in the grass, cooling instantly. “Amris, help me! Hold her still!"

Amris understood in an instant. Letting go of Kiera's hand he ran to Ransom's other side, clamping a hand on the back of her neck and another at the base of her spine, pulling her tight against Horus’ body and holding her as still as he could. Horus couldn't fight her and save her life, so it was up to Amris to hold her as steady as possible.

There was so much blood. Even the hardened hunter experienced a rolling in his stomach at the sight of the wound. The silver was everywhere, spreading with incredible speed. Amris turned his head at once to Kiera, Ra and Shiri and snapped out an order. “Defensive perimeter! Now! Protect the wounded!"

It took them a second to respond, but decades of instinct took over and they shifted at once to their full wolfen forms. Shiri was the smallest, and her pure white coat signified to all of her race that she was as yet without a mate. Kiera, as a Bonded Mistress, was larger than Shiri, and had a solid white coat, but for the tips of her ears and the tip of her tail. Those markings were a solid black, to match her mate's color.

Ra was faster in the transformation, easily becoming a huge reddish-brown wolf. He had no title, his coloring signifying his lack of station as just one of the Pack.

In their wolfen state, the trio's senses were at their most acute. There was no way now that anyone would be able to intrude on them without facing the combined might of the three Lycan wolves.

Horus could barely see through his tears and the burning pain running along his arm was incredible, but he didn't stop. He dug into the wound a second time. It was so hot to the touch he could feel the silver in the wound wrapping itself around his arm branding him, but now he ignored the pain. His skin blistered at the direct contact, this pure version of the metal so much more damaging than the filaments in Kiera's cuffs. He remained undeterred. It was a small price to pay for Ransom's life.

A second time, Horus drew out the fibrous webbing of the silver and hurled it to the ground. Ransom's blood was laced through the webbing streaking it in red.

Ransom groaned softly then went still. For a heart stopping moment, Horus thought he hadn't been fast enough. No, he refused to believe it. Ransom wasn't dead.

Amris’ hand moved to her neck, feeling for a pulse. When he found it, it wasn't as strong as he would have liked but it was there. “She just passed out.” He informed the others.

Kiera, Shiri and Ra continued to watch Horus’ valiant efforts in horrified fascination .

Horus chuffed his acknowledgement of Amris’ statement and dug in a third time. There was less silver than before but he had to make sure he had it all. His own bloody and blistered hand now served to attract the silver in her body and the few remaining traces of the molten metal rushed to this new target, adhering to his hand and forearm at once.

He withdrew his bloody hand and tore the silver from his fingers, forcing himself to ignore the pain again. Even one piece of silver left inside could kill her. Sweat was pouring off his naked body, mixing with the tears on his face. Horus ignored it all, his whole world focused on the small woman dying in his arms.

Horus didn't know if he was doing more harm than good. There was just so much blood. Muscle and flesh had been torn from her body with each silver strand that he pulled out of her. If Ransom survived, she could heal those wounds, as terrible as they might be. Any silver, left untouched, would kill her.

Kiera's wolfen eyes were filled with tears. She had watched her own brother die in the most horrible fashion, but she would never have had the courage to do what Horus had done. He had taken Ransom's poison onto himself, deliberately ignoring the pain and what it would do to him. He could not know if she would survive or not, but he was undeterred in his effort. She had never heard of any Lycan sacrificing so much. It was difficult to conceive of any Lycan doing what Horus was doing. Had she not seen it herself, she never would have believed it.

When Horus withdrew his hand a fourth time, there was no silver to be seen in the wound. He had either succeeded against all odds, or she was already beyond hope.

His forearm and hand was covered in a webbing of silver strands. The pain was incredible, because the silver was still liquid and was burning itself into his skin. His blood was oozing now from his arm, merging with Ransom's own blood as he held her close.

"Ransom,” Horus’ voice was a whisper. “Ransom ... you'll be okay ... you'll be..."

Horus fell backward, pulling Ransom's body across his chest, unwilling to release her even as he faded into unconsciousness. The sheer effort required to remove the silver from Ransom's wound, combined with the steady burn on his arm, had finally taken its toll on the Weret Master. His body had decided it better to simply shut itself off, rather than deal with the steady agony of the silver on its flesh.

Amris quickly gathered up some of the clothes scattered on the ground and pressed them against Ransom's wound. If the silver was gone, and out of her system, then she may yet heal and survive this. He needed to stop the bleeding if Ransom was to have any chance at all.

"Did he do it?” Shiri asked in a strangled whisper, as she shifted from her wolfen form to her human state. “Will she live?"

Amris’ answer was quick and decisive. “Not out here she won't. We need to get them both to safety. They're too exposed and she's too weak to fight off an infection. Kiera, scout ahead and make sure no one sees us. Shiri, get to the car and have it running when we get there. Ra, can you take care of Horus alone?"

Ra nodded his head, as he began shifting back to his human form. When he reached his Master, his voice was tight with emotion as he gently removed Horus’ arms from Ransom's body. “Been doing it for years.” He lifted Horus to his feet, and threw him over his shoulder in a fireman's carry.

Amris couldn't help the twitching at the corner of his lips. That was Ra. Dependable and steady. Amris lifted Ransom into his own arms, holding the bundle of clothes tightly against the wound as he held her against him. “Move out.” He said to the two women who were still frozen to the spot.

That did it. Shiri took off at a loping run toward the car. Kiera lifted her face to the wind, scenting the area for signs of life. A group of norms off to the east were moving steadily toward them. Officials looking for the wolf no doubt. She made a motion with her head to Ra and Amris, guiding them away from the norms.

When they broke from the tree line, Shiri was there waiting with the car running, as ordered. She had even moved the car closer to where they would emerge from the woods, and had all three doors open. Kiera shifted to her human form and ran around to the front seat as Ra eased Horus into the back and slid in next to him. Amris got into the back on the other side, shifting Ransom so she was sitting in Horus’ lap. “Go.” Amris didn't really need to give the command; Shiri had them moving even before the doors were closed.

"We're going to need help.” Ra gave Amris a knowing look.

"We'll have to make due. There's no one here we can trust.” Amris wasn't happy with the responsibility of taking care of the two gravely wounded Lycans without medical assistance, but he didn't see they had any other options either.

"I know of someone.” Ra informed him turning his head to look forward as Shiri sped them back to the hotel.

Amris looked at the big Weret second and nodded. He slipped Ra his own cell phone and while they drove on to the hotel, Ra made arrangements with Dr. Anderson.

If the clerk at the hotel thought the group had been in rough shape the last time they came in, he was horrified to see their condition now. The redhead was naked and bleeding, he could see that from the small trail of blood that ran down her bare leg as she was carried in. Her boyfriend, the other big guy, was also naked and being carried in over the giant's shoulders.

The second good looking redhead stayed down in the lobby with him while the rest of them went up to their room.

"You know,” he said quietly, but somehow knowing he was going to be ignored, “I think that those two should be in a hospital or something."

Shiri didn't even bother looking at him. She was busy keeping an eye out for the woman that Ra had described in the car.

"I mean, I'm just saying..."

"Don't say anything."

"But, she was bleeding, and..."

Shiri turned and gave the clerk a look that froze his voice in his throat. “You didn't see anything.” Shiri said softly. “You had a nice quiet night, and nothing exciting happened.” She made sure the clerk got the message when she added. “If you remember that, you'll live a nice, long life."

Doctor Hope Anderson stepped into the lobby of an upscale hotel. It certainly was a step up from the places she usually was called to. Known as Dr. Andy by her patients, she was one of the few left in her profession that made house calls. Often her patients valued her silence, appreciating the lack of questions they would have gotten had they gone to a hospital or called for an ambulance. This one sounded bad, just by the tone of the voice on the other end of the line. She carried a large colorful tote in the place of the traditional black bag. There were only two patrons in the lobby. The red headed woman was pacing, biting her thumbnail and watching Hope carefully. She certainly didn't look like a doctor.

Her naturally jet black hair was drawn up into two pony tails on top of her head, the tips dyed a bright red. She wore a pair of black jeans and a form fitting black t-shirt with a large red chaos symbol on the chest. Her feet were encased in combat boots with three inch heels. Her light grey eyes were outlined heavily in black eyeliner and her full lips painted a bright red. It wasn't her normal attire for the clinic but she had been home when she received this particular call.

The large man who had been lounging in a chair, unfolded from the waist to rise slowly. As she approached him, she got the distinct impression he was sniffing her. She was certain she had met him before, several months ago. He wasn't the patient then either, but he had been there when she had arrived, much like now. Wonderful. Another one of them.

"I got a call to room Five-Twenty.” She announced shortly. She always loved the reactions of others when they realized she was Dr. Andy, and the red haired woman's was one that would remain in her memory for a long time.

"You have got to be joking.” Shiri frowned at Ra, shaking her head.

"This way.” Ra said. Giving Shiri a wink he took Hope by the arm to escort her to the elevator. Even in the heels, his legs were much longer she had to jog to keep up. Shiri followed them quickly, slipping into the elevator just before the doors closed.

The desk clerk would have been able to describe the whole sequence to police later, if he hadn't had his nose buried in a fascinating copy of the Free Press at the time. However, that would not keep him from giving a full report to his own Pack Master.

No one spoke a word on the ride to the floor, though Shiri couldn't keep herself from staring at the doctor. Kiera threw open the door as soon as she saw them approaching through the peep hole and called to Amris, “They're here.” Catching a glimpse of the doctor's outrageous outfit, she added, “I think..."

Hope simply breezed past Kiera and toward the bedroom where another large man was just emerging. Damn they grow them big where these guys come from. Must be something in the water. Amris stood fast in front of the door. Though the woman smelled of antiseptic and medication, he didn't trust her. She could have looked like Mother Teresa for all he cared, and he still wouldn't have trusted her. “I need to see some ID.” He informed the woman.

She dug into her bag and handed him a small wallet, with her driver's license inside. “You don't look like the picture.” Amris observed, retaining possession of the wallet though the doctor held her hand out for it.

"I don't know you,” she said lowly “or what's going on here ... and I don't need to. But if the police come looking for you, the description they get of the little Goth girl that came to visit, won't lead them back to my clinic."

Amris looked past her shoulders and over her head to Ra. The tall Lycan simply nodded his head once, vouching for the woman. It made Amris a little more comfortable but the Grey Master needed more than that. “Okay. Open the bag."

Hope placed her carryall on the ground and opened it, showing Amris the boxes of medical supplies and bandages that she had brought with her. He could even see small vials of liquids and medications nestled in a side pocket; likely antibiotics and antiseptics since she wouldn't know quite what to expect.

Amris nodded and Ra and Shiri came into the room closing the door behind them.

"You look pretty healthy to me, though the young lady should put a bandage around those neck wounds. And I can give her an antibiotic to keep infection down. If she's the reason I was brought out here, it's going to cost you.” Hope tossed her head, meeting Amris’ eyes. She wasn't about to let the man intimidate her, no matter how damn big he was. Throughout her speech, none of the four had said a word, though by the way the redhead and the fellow that met her at the door were looking at her, she was kind of thankful for that mercy. “I'm just guessing I wasn't called for any of you four. So where is my patient?"

Amris remained stock still considering her. She was an unknown quantity at a time when unknown quantities had almost gotten Kiera killed. Carlos’ kidnapping of his wife, and Hector's attempted assassination of Horus were tantamount to a declaration of war between the Packs and he was not willing to risk further lives on an unknown quantity.

On the other hand, Ra had vouched for her and that said a lot. “Kiera?"

"She's a doctor, my mate. Let her treat our wounded.” Kiera moved up beside Amris her hand laid gently on his shoulder. She stood slightly behind her Pack Master, but there was no denying the fact they were a couple.

"Wounded?” Hope looked to Kiera then Amris, her eyes narrowing. “How many wounded are we talking about?"

Amris stepped aside and gestured Hope to come into the adjoining bedroom where he and Ra had placed Horus and Ransom. Ransom was on her belly, still naked, but a sheet had been placed over her buttocks and legs to preserve her modesty. The same sheet covered Horus from the waist down. Their eyes were closed as their bodies struggled to recover from the damage done to them and Hope couldn't keep the shocked gasp from escaping her lips at the sight.

"The woman is named Ransom,” Kiera said, “and the man is Horus."

"I need more light in here.” Hope said after catching her breath. “Someone call down and get us some more towels. This is going to be messy."

Hope immediately got to business. True to her reputation, she didn't ask any questions. It was none of her business and the less she knew the better. It was her belief that everyone deserved the best care she could possibly give them, no matter who they were or what they had done. She had been expecting a lot of things, but this was certainly not one of them. The woman should be in a hospital having that horrible wound looked after properly. Hope could hardly ignore the bruising under the woman's eye, or the discoloration on her cheek, but the bullet wound was what needed her immediate attention. As for the man ... she couldn't even begin to wonder at what pain he was suffering.

"Are any of you related to either of them?” She asked as she moved to Ransom's side and felt her pulse. “She's going to need blood.” Setting down her bag she stepped around to Horus, checking him as well. “He's better off but this still doesn't look good.” Upon closer inspection, the huge man's right forearm was covered in a lattice-work of metal webbing with strand after strand of silver lace filigree. Almost as if the molten metal had been drizzled over the length of his arm.

"No.” Amris answered lowly, watching the strange woman looking over his friends with an eagle eye.

"Shit,” Hope cursed loudly and bustled back around to Ransom muttering to herself, “It's never that easy."

Ra and Shiri collected all the portable lamps they could find, bringing them into the makeshift operating room. Unfortunately, most had been bolted to the furniture, not that it would stop them if they needed the light. They would try what was readily available first. Kiera was on the phone with the front desk, having the towels sent up.

Digging into her bag, she began setting out the instruments she would need. “Ok, I need two volunteers. I don't have everything I need here so someone is going to have to go back to my clinic and get the rest. That's one. The other is going to be my assistant."

Kiera slipped into the room at the last declaration. “How can I help?” Kiera was feeling incredibly responsible. None of this would have happened if she hadn't rebelled against the decree of the Lunatier Pack Leader. Her seemingly minor action at the time had set off a domino effect that was spiraling out of control.

"Good, get the green soap out of my bag and go scrub your hands and lower arms.” Hope dug out a pad and pen and began making her list, waiting for the other volunteer to step forward.

Amris looked to Ra and Shiri. “I'm not leaving.” It wasn't so much a declaration of intent as it was a fact. There was no way in hell he was leaving his friend and his friend's mate at the mercy of a stranger with a scalpel. Shiri elbowed Ra just under his ribs and chuckled. “Looks like we're it, studly."

Ra just nodded his head. “I'll drive, though. Your driving scares me."

Every Lycan in the room stopped for a second and looked at Ra in shock. Had he just tried to make a joke?

Ra shrugged. “We ready?"

Hope gave Shiri the list and painstakingly described each item by its’ container color and any other special things she would have to know. Shiri nodded and headed for the door, Ra's hand in hers. “Don't worry, you two, we'll be back in a flash."

Once Shiri and Ra were gone, Amris dragged a chair over to Horus’ side, anger starting to boil within him. Not at his friend; never that. His fury was focused solely at the Lycan who had done this to his friend and his friend's mate. He remembered the look of anguish on Horus’ face when he saw Ransom had been shot. Horus’ fierce determination as he had dug into Ransom's shoulder to extract the silver.

What had it cost him? There was no knowing now if either of them would live. Try as he might, he could not belittle his friend's choice or his actions. From her wounds, Amris could tell that Ransom had shielded Horus from being shot. She knew what those bullets could do. She knew that they were out there. She had to have seen what was about to happen. She hadn't cared about the risk, and Amris felt ashamed at what he had thought of her earlier.

Kiera was working with the unusual doctor, preparing the area around Ransom's shoulder for treatment. The doctor was busy readying a syringe. When she turned and stuck it into Horus’ arm, Amris flinched, but Hope gave him a soft smile.

"Don't worry. It's just a pain reliever and tranquilizer. Ransom, here, is going to take a lot of my time, and I need ... Horus, is it?” Amris nodded. “I just need Horus here to rest and sleep."

She pulled a surgical mask and pair of gloves from her bag and handed them to Kiera. “This isn't the most sterile place but we'll at least make the attempt to be sanitary.” Hope pulled on her own protective gear and glanced at Amris. “Quit glowering and make yourself useful. It's far too quiet in here, I bet the alarm clock has a radio.” The tension rolling from the large man was making her antsy. It would do them all some good for him to be distracted, if even for just a few minutes.

Giving Ransom her complete focus, Hope was virtually silent for the next three hours as she worked to save the young woman's life. The only time she spoke was to request an instrument or for the lighting to be adjusted. She didn't acknowledge Shiri and Ra when they made their way back into the room with the rest of her equipment, simply putting several of the delivered items to use immediately.

Sweat beaded on the surgeon's forehead and Kiera blotted it away quickly with a washcloth to keep it from dripping into Dr. Andy's eyes. Kiera was not a doctor, or even a very good field medic, but she was impressed by the speed and care used to close the terrible opening in Ransom's back. Even to her untrained eye it looked like a miracle taking place right in front of her.

Sometime during her care of Ransom, Hope was astonished to see Horus open his eyes and turn his head from side to side. She had given him enough tranquilizer, to keep him out for hours. His own healing rate must be phenomenal.

"Ransom...” His voice was hoarse and cracked and if he was in any pain, he wasn't showing it. “Is she ... where is she?"

Amris leaned down and spoke softly. “She's alive, old friend. But she's still hurt badly. We have a doctor looking after her now."

"A good doctor?” Horus didn't seem to be aware of what was going on around him.

"She's the best."

"A bitch?” Horus seemed surprised they had found a woman, but he would accept his fairy godmother if she could save Ransom's life.

Amris smiled, and looked over to Hope who couldn't help but overhear the conversation, “Yeah, a bitch."

Hope glanced up, meeting Amris’ eye. From what he could see of her expression considering the white mask covering the lower half of her face, she was smirking.

Horus licked his lips and closed his eyes. “Ransom will be fine. I know she'll be fine."

Without thinking to ask for the Doctor's permission, Amris leaned over his friend and placed Horus’ good hand in Ransom's. He knew Ransom wouldn't be able to feel anything, but he thought it wouldn't hurt his friend to know she was so close.

Without realizing he was doing it, Horus closed his hand gently over Ransom's and smiled. “Told you she'd be fine,” he whispered. Then he was quiet again.

Hope wasn't taking any chances. The deepest layers of the wound on Ransom's back had been closed, leaving only the largest and most surface layers. There were already enough stitches in the woman to make a patchwork quilt several times over, and there was still another good hour of work left to do before she could start on the big man himself.

She straightened, stretching out the kinks in her back and dug into her bag again. Another syringe was filled with fluid and she circled the bed to administer it to Horus. “Keep it up,” she told Amris, “and I may find an extra dose for you.” She chuckled and moved back to Kiera's side, addressing her assistant “Or I can just give it to you to keep in reserves for the next time he gets on your nerves."

Shiri raised her hand from the spot on the floor where she had taken a seat, with her back leaning against the wall. “I want in on that.” She chuckled.

"For him?” Hope jerked her head in Ra's direction where he lounged against the doorjamb. At Shiri's nod, Hope began shaking her head. “Girl, I don't have enough painkillers in my clinic to knock out that big lug.” Which had them all laughing. Even Ra.

Shiri sobered. “Is Ransom going to live?” She alone had the courage to voice the question that had been in the forefront of all their minds for the last several hours.

"I don't know.” Hope answered evenly and honestly. “She's lost a lot of blood, but I've done everything I can. The rest is up to her. The saline IV will help but it's not as good as if I had the right blood type to replenish what she lost.” Bending over her patient again, she began to close the ragged edges of the wound, making the exposed area as small as possible. There was too much flesh missing to close it completely, but she could bring as much of it together as possible to aid in healing.

An hour and a half later she straightened again. “That's as good as it gets for now.” Her fingers went to the side of Ransom's neck and she felt the strong, steady pulse there. “That she's survived this long is a good sign. Now all we can do is wait.” She covered the wound with a large gauze bandage and stripped off her gloves. “I need to sit down for a little bit before starting on him. Can you strong, manly men move all this stuff over there?” She waved her hand to indicate the lights and equipment to be moved to Horus’ side of the bed as she collapsed into a chair.

Amris and Ra followed the doctor's directions at once. Though he was a Master of the Packs and one used to being followed, Amris well understood the times when it was necessary to shut up and let people that knew what they were doing take charge. That Dr. Anderson was competent wasn't in question. She had done a remarkable job on Ransom, and he had every confidence that she would be able to do something with Horus’ arm.

What concerned him was the fact that they now had an incapacitated Pack Master and Mistress in the hotel room without any defenses. He had immediately recognized Ransom as a Mistress in his own mind. It was not simply because of Horus’ love for her, either. She had acted in a courageous and decisive manner in protecting her Master and mate. She had understood that her death would be the only way to save him, and she had accepted that fate unblinking. No other test could equal that.

Ransom was, in Amris’ mind, the Weret Pack Mistress now. Anyone who disputed that fact would have to answer to him.

Ra, it appeared, was of the same mind. After they had placed the lights and equipment where the doctor had requested, he went to the hotel phone and began placing calls. Within ten minutes he had arranged for another fifteen Weret Hunters to be in Detroit before mid-afternoon.

Their presence was vital he had explained to them curtly. “Your Master and Mistress have been attacked by an assassin. They need your protection.” He then followed up his curt orders with directions on how to get to the hotel, and insisted on a rushed ETA. For Ra, there were no half-measures when it came to his Master's safety.

It was the first time that Ransom's position had been voiced aloud, and Kiera had to smile at Ransom's elevation in Ra's esteem. It boded well for both Horus and Ransom that Ra had so quickly accepted her. It reminded her of how quickly Khefris had stood at her side in support as well. Perhaps it was the way of a second to be so devoted to their Masters that they accepted everything so easily. Then her eyes went to the bloodied bandage across Ransom's back, and the glittering silver wrap around Horus’ forearm and she shuddered.

It was a wonderful thing for them to have found each other, but before there could be any celebration of the Pack, they needed to survive.

Amris had listened to Ra summon his forces in silence, and he was wondering if he too should be putting out a call to the Grey Pack. After all, he and Kiera were now isolated, and his attempt to have her position protected had already been compromised. It had been Ransom's doing, and Amris accepted that now, just as he had begun to accept that it was unintentional and accidental.

Even as he blamed her for that, he also had to give her credit for her successes. It was Ransom who had located Marco for them, and that in turn had led to the destruction of the Detroit bullet operation. Which was by no means been an accident.

As his gaze drifted back to Horus, even the Grey Pack Master couldn't stop the shiver he felt when he looked at the silver webbing wrapped around his friend's arm. He was thankful for the doctor's drugs, because he was certain the pain would have surely driven Horus mad by now. Unfortunately, relieving his pain was only a small part of the solution needed here today.

"So what now, doctor? How are you going to remove ... that?"

Hope lifted herself wearily and moved into the seat Amris had vacated at Horus’ side. “Very carefully.” She answered glibly. She honestly had no idea what she was going to do. Her focus had been so completely on Ransom, she hadn't really spared much thought to her second patient.

She lifted Horus’ forearm gently in her hands so she could inspect the full extent of the damage. His skin was hot to the touch, alarmingly so. She moved her hand, checking the pulse in his wrist. It was weaker than it had been when she first examined him, concerning her even more. Reaching over to the closest lamp, she angled the shade to focus the beam of light more on the area she needed to see.

Hope had never seen anything like it before. His body was actually rejecting the metal. Large blisters had formed under the silver strands, lifting them from the rest of his skin. “Someone call down and get me some wire cutters from the maintenance staff.” She said distractedly.

Being closest to the phone, Shiri made the call, thankful the front desk clerk didn't ask too many questions. Evidently, management had decided they just didn't want to know anything more about this strange group, and whatever they wanted, they got, as long as they left the hotel and its customers, alone. Ra moved into the main room to await the delivery of the cutters, putting himself firmly between the door and the Masters, Mistresses and his own bitch.

Grabbing up a towel, Hope folded it several times, putting it under Horus’ arm. With the tip of her scalpel, she punctured one of the blisters under a thin strand of metal, experimentally. The fluid ran across Horus’ arm and onto the towel. It had released some of the pressure on the metal and she would be able to cut it free of the rest with relative ease. The thicker strands would be trickier, but at least she had a plan now.

Then Horus stirred, his eyes opening slowly. His dazed eyes found Hope, skimming across her face then to Amris who had moved up beside the bed. “Ransom?” He asked hoarsely.

"She's healing.” Amris wouldn't give his friend false hope. Not when Ransom's condition was still so critical.

So intent on what she was doing, Hope had not realized her patient was awake and jumped at the sound of his voice. “Dear God!” She huffed, exasperated. “What do I have to do to keep you out?” Then a little louder added “Someone get me a mallet."

Ra did not even think of laughing. “That is out of the question."

Kiera put her hand up to ward off the big Lycan warrior before he did anything stupid. “She was joking. It was a joke, Ra."

She looked at Hope and then asked, “It was a joke, right?"

"Yeah, a joke.” Hope shook her head. “But I can't do anything unless he's out, and I have no idea what to give him now. He's already taken three times what he should have, and I don't want to risk giving him any more.” She looked over to Horus’ prone form and frowned, cursing her own lack of knowledge about their metabolism. If only she knew more about them.

Horus opened his eyes again, and whispered to her. “Doc ... it's okay. Just do what you have to and get it off.” He licked his lips. “I know it'll hurt like the devils own, but if you leave it too long..."

"I don't deliberately inflict pain on any of my patients, Horus.” Hope sat next to him and gently placed her hand on his bicep. “I want you out cold.” Her voice had lost all of its venom, and she spoke to Horus now as she would speak to any of her patients that was in pain and needed her to alleviate their hurt.

"Then give me another shot and hurry up."

Hope sighed. “Are all of the men so butt-headed with you people?"

Kiera and Shiri smiled and nodded. “Yes.” Kiera acknowledged. “But we love them that way. And we prefer the term ‘determined'."

Shiri laughed and Ra and Amris just glowered. Then Amris had to just shake his head and laugh too. After a moment's grace, he nodded to Hope. “Give him another shot. He'll be fine."

A knock at the door brought Ra to attention and he opened it to a young teenage girl holding a very large tool box. “I don't know what wire cutters are so I just brought the whole thing."

"Thank you, this will work perfectly.” Ra took the tool box in hand and shut the door on the sputtering girl. Obviously she had thought he would take only what he needed.

Hope hovered on the brink of decision. “Normally I would take your word for it, but not in this case. If I give him any more medicine, it could kill him.” She said biting her lip as she considered. “There has to be something else ... He's just so damn weak.” She started pacing, throwing concerned glances at Horus.

"It's his exposure to the metal making him weaker.” Kiera ventured softly. The doctor would have to know as much as they could safely tell her in order to help Horus. It was always risky and dangerous to give up any of their secrets, but they all silently acknowledged it was worth the risk if it meant Horus’ life.

"Is he allergic?” Hope asked her frown deepening as it dawned on her she would have to watch for anaphylactic shock on top of everything else.

"Something like that.” Amris supplied. “Let's just say, he'll heal much better and faster once it's off of him."

"I'm tough.” Horus said licking his dry lips with the tip of his tongue. “I can take it.” He tried to laugh but it came out as more of a wheeze than anything.

"Ok.” Hope said decisively retaking her seat. “Here's what we're going to do.” She looked directly at Horus as she spoke. For all of the support he was getting from his friends, the decision was still his and his alone. “I'm going to get the little pieces. Take as much of it off you as I can then we'll talk about another shot for the bigger sections.” Her expression turned grim. “For the record, I hate this idea. But it's all I have."

"Do it.” Horus closed his eyes again, bracing for the pain. The authoritative command was not one Hope could ignore.

Hope worked in silence for nearly an hour, pausing only to wipe her face. She knew she was causing the big man agony and hated that she had no choice. She had no explanation for the phenomenon, but she had noticed that with the removal of each silver sliver, Horus seemed to improve slightly and that gave her a little hope. The large blisters forming under the metal were actually helping with the removal of it, by lifting the strand off his skin. She still had to deal with the blisters but it was making her job much easier than she would have thought. It was tedious work, especially with a conscious patient. She was amazed he hadn't tried to knock her into the middle of next week considering what she was doing to him.

Mercifully, at some point in the procedure, Horus passed out. When she checked him again, he was breathing more regularly and his heartbeat was stronger than before. Finally she felt it safe enough to give him another shot of the painkiller.

Then the real work began. She directed Amris to the head of the bed to take hold of Horus’ shoulder, and Ra at the side to grab his wrist. She needed his arm as still as possible and if he shook off the medication again, he could wind up doing more damage than leaving the metal in place.

With nothing to do but sit and watch the proceedings, Shiri had been idly pawing through the open tool box next to her in her boredom when she spotted the tip of a soldering iron. Pulling the whole thing out of the box, she tapped Hope on the shoulder just as Hope was about to start again. “Can you use this?"

Hope eyed the tool pensively and nodded slowly. “I just might. Plug it in and we'll see."

She had to move one of the small side tables by the bed in order to get to a socket, but Shiri managed to get the soldering iron plugged in and heating up in no time. As the iron tip started to smoke, Hope looked from the iron to the silver and back again.

Then she looked up at Amris and Ra, and saw that of all the people in the room, these two were watching her the most closely. Kiera and the redhead had already turned their attention to Ransom, and had begun caring for the young girl. Almost as if he could read her thoughts, Amris asked her, “So you're going to try to melt it off?"

Ra's eyes grew wide at the thought. “No! You can't do that. The silver will just move around and re-attach itself."

Hope shook her head. “No. It won't.” She looked out the window, surprised to see the sun had already come up. By the looks of things, it had been up for some time. “What I want to do is use the iron to melt, or at least liquefy, small sections at a time. As they melt off, I can scoop them off his arm with that small spatula. It will get the silver off his arm as fast as possible, without having to use those cutters anymore."

Amris nodded. “But you're worried about the burns."

"Of course I'm worried about the burns, you idiot!” Hope caught her breath at not only Amris’ snarled reaction, but Kiera's as well.

"My mate is hardly an idiot, Doctor. He is simply ensuring that you know what you are planning.” Kiera's voice was low and carried an underlying threat to it. Challenge my mate again, doctor, and we will have words.

Hope's breath caught in her throat as she met Kiera's gaze. Who were these people? Hope thought. One insult and I feel like I'm in fear for my life.

"I didn't mean anything by it, Amris.” Hope was quiet as she gathered her thoughts. “But I am worried about the burns. The heat of the iron will transfer to his skin much faster than it will take this silver to melt."

"So we keep his skin cool.” Amris turned to Ra and Shiri. “Get the towels out of the washroom and soak them down. Cold water. Once they're good and soaked bring them out here. We're going to squeeze the cold water out of the towel and let it run down over his arm like a waterfall. Collect the water at the other end and keep redoing the process until the doctor is done."

He turned his head and gave Hope a look that was designed to put her in her place. “So, doctor, you ready to get this off him or was that idea too idiotic for you?"

Hope took a step back and ran a hand over her face tiredly. “No. I need to take a minute.” She turned and walked toward the bathroom.

"I thought we were in a hurry here.” Shiri snapped, propping her fists on her hips.

"Five minutes won't change anything either way.” Hope said closing the bathroom door. She was exhausted and snappy. She knew she had to take a step back or she was going to throw something at one of those people in the other room. She wasn't proud of herself or her bedside manner in this case and she had to pull herself together. Turning on the tap in the sink, she splashed some cold water onto her face and allowed herself a moment to just breathe.

In the other room Kiera sighed, ashamed of herself. “Maybe we should all take a breather. We've been going at it pretty hard all night."

"We don't have time for a break.” Amris growled, glaring at the bathroom door, his hands clenching and unclenching in frustration at the delay.

"She's only human.” Kiera said lowly. Low enough not to carry across the room but loud enough the sensitive hearing of her Lycan companions could hear her.

"And that weakness is going to get Horus killed.” Amris snapped back.

"Do you have a better alternative?” Ra asked with a raised brow, his head tilted to the side as he considered the irate Master.

"No, damn it, she's all we've got.” Amris only took his eyes off the door long enough to glance at the clock. He would give her five minutes then he would tear the damn door off its hinges if he had to.

Inside the bathroom, Hope's mind turned sluggishly over the new problem. It was so unlike anything she had encountered before, she found herself twisting and turning all possible solutions around in her head, discarding each one as more outlandish than the one before it. She hated the idea of melting the metal off Horus. Even if he survived the removal itself, the resulting burns would require extensive treatment and leave him open to infection. There had to be a better way.

As she stood staring in the mirror, the reflection caught the shower stall and its plastic curtain. Inspiration hit her in a flash and she jerked open the bathroom door to rush back to Horus’ side. Lifting his arm again, she examined one of the larger patches of metal on his skin. It just might work.

Grabbing a spare scalpel, she ran back to the bathroom, ignoring the sputtered protests of the others. Cleanly she drew the blade down the length of the plastic shower curtain. Grabbing the panel in her hand she ran back and laid it under Horus’ arm. Then she took the ice bucket and set it on the floor, putting the end of the curtain into the bucket. The plastic would act as a funnel and the bucket would catch the water as it was dripped over Horus’ arm to keep it cool. “We're going to do both. We're not melting the metal but we're going to use the heat to soften it enough to make it malleable and we're still going to keep his skin cool enough to cause as little discomfort as possible.” She looked from Kiera to Amris. “Trust me, this is going to be better for him."

Amris smiled and nodded his head. “I agree, doctor. Nice work."

Once everyone was in place, Hope took a deep breath and selected the piece she would start with. The blisters under it were bigger than the ones she had dealt with previously. Carefully she cut as far as she dared, then she used the soldering iron in combination with the wire cutters. The iron was applied to the metal until it was soft enough to bend, then Hope bent the free piece back so it was folded on top of what was still connected to Horus’ skin. The process was repeated several times until the piece fell free completely.

Horus breathed a sigh of relief, but did not stir. He was still completely unconscious.

With the first long piece successfully removed they began in earnest. It was a longer and more tedious process than they had anticipated, and Hope found herself doing all the soldering iron and clipper work by herself. None of the other people in the room wanted any part of the silver work, and her hands were getting sore and numb long before she finished.

She was still partway through the fourth large cluster when Ransom sighed and blinked her eyes. Kiera was on her knees next to the young woman in an instant.

"Thirsty ... tired ... Horus ... why's he sleeping ... my back hurts...” Her voice was hoarse and barely coherent.

"If she's thirsty soak a facecloth and let her get the water that way. No large quantities of fluids for now.” Hope was giving directions to Kiera even as she worked at the next set of filaments. She found it remarkable the woman was even awake, let alone conscious enough to be speaking. The constitution of these people was extraordinary! If small, little Ransom were recovering like she was, it was no wonder Horus had shrugged off her attempts to sedate him!

Hope just shook her head in amazement and carried on. Because constitutions aside, the blisters under the silver were real, and his response to having the silver removed was real. The longer the silver stayed attached to Horus’ skin, the worse his condition was going to be. She still had a job to do here.

Twenty minutes later, and about eighteen minutes after Ransom passed out again, there was a knock at the door. Ra checked it out then opened the door quickly admitting two other men.

Hope thought she was trapped as one of the few females in a male body-builders convention. Forget the water, these guys must be on serious steroid injections! One of them was even taller and broader than Horus, but neither of them could put a candle to Ra.

"Who is she?” The tone was even more hostile than anything Amris had used against her, and Hope was suddenly frightened for her life.

"She is the one who saved your Mistress’ life, and who even now is saving the life of our Master.” Ra was actually verbose. Then he grunted, “Show respect."

The two men gave her a cursory and barely courteous grunt. Then as one they looked down at Ransom on the bed. Her partial nudity seemed not to affect them and they seemed more interested in her wound, and her face, than the fact she was naked in front of them.

"Our Mistress?"

Ra nodded. “Horus has accepted her. She saved his life from an assassin.” For Ra, no further explanation was necessary.

"Take it to the other room guys.” Hope spared the trio another glance. Master? Mistress? Was this some kind of bizarre sex club? She was suddenly hearing much more than she ever wanted to know about these people. “I don't need any distractions right now.” She added in a gentler voice, knowing she sounded harsh. Heaven help her, she was tired. Operating on automatic pilot, her brain was mush and even her hair hurt.

One of the newcomers leaned over Ransom, burying his nose into her hair at the base of her neck and inhaling deeply. The other lifted the corner of the bandage over her wound and made a strangled sound in his throat. Kiera moved out of the way to make room for them to become familiar with their Mistress.

"Stop that!” Hope said immediately, wanting to smack the big lug's hand away from her patient, but she had a soldering iron in one hand and a pair of wire cutters in the other. Neither would be good to hit anyone with. Especially someone that damn big. He could break her in half with his pinky finger.

The man ignored her completely and traded places with his friend, taking Ransom's scent deep into his own lungs.

The second stranger circled the bed to peer over Amris’ shoulder at what the small woman was doing to his Master. “They will survive.” He made it a statement, not a question. Turning his gaze back to Ra he asked, “When do we hunt the assassin?” He had seen enough and was ready for action.

Hope glared up at him “You're in my light.” She snapped, which only earned her a brief, sardonic smirk as the big guy took a step to the side and looked back to Ra expectantly.

"Soon. We will wait for the others to arrive.” Ra informed them. Remembering that not everyone knew each other, he made introductions. “Tor, Badru ... Master Amris you know.” Amris gave each a nod of greeting, which was returned with a slight bow from each. “His mate, Mistress Kiera.” Kiera gave them a tired smile, earning her a bow as well. “My own bitch, Shiri."

Ra made his claim clearly, earning smirks from both men as they acknowledged Shiri who nodded in return. “Heya, studlies."

"And Dr. Hope Anderson. Though, she prefers to be called Andy.” Hope sighed and looked up again, struggling to keep her patience. “Sorry I can't shake hands; I'm a little busy at the moment."

Badru gave her a toothy grin, making her shiver and Hope studiously returned her attention to her work. These were people she seriously did not want to mess with. It had been bad enough before the arrival of Tor and Badru. Hope could almost feel the power radiating off everyone in the room. Even Horus had an aura about him that would have terrified her if he hadn't been so injured. Now Hope simply wanted to be done and get the hell out of Dodge.

Fortunately they were working on the last piece. As soon as it was free and Horus was bandaged, she was out of there. Provided Ransom was still doing well. It had been too long since she checked on her first patient.

"Do we know who the assassin was?” Tor crossed his arms, leaning against the dresser.

"Hector Lunatier.” Ra responded immediately, practically spitting the name.

Badru grinned, and his canines shone when he opened his mouth. Even in his human form, Badru seemed more wolf than man. “Fenris’ Pack. They'll be pushovers.” He turned his head and nodded to Kiera. “Especially now that their best Hunter is no longer with them."

Amris turned his head from paying attention to Dr. Andy to speak to the newcomers. “Carlos is dead as well, and Horus eliminated two other Hunters from their Pack tonight."

Tor laughed. “Good to know he hasn't lost his touch."

Ra nodded his head, his voice and face expressionless. “He is our Master."

Tor sobered quickly and only nodded in silent recognition of that fact.

Hope sighed. She was tired, and bitchy, and getting crankier by the second with all the noise behind her, but she didn't really want to make herself noticed now. These people were talking casually about assassins and murder. To hear Horus’ name mentioned as someone who had just eliminated two people tonight put her on edge.

She had watched this man reach out to his woman, and she had heard the soft and gentle caring in his voice when he had asked about her condition. Hope just couldn't reconcile that same man with the person who could kill two people in one night.

For the next few minutes, they all watched in silence as Hope peeled off the last of the silver. When it clattered into the bottom of the ice bucket, she was surprised to see how little there actually was. She was also astonished to see that the blisters further up his arm had already begun to heal over. She could make out the lattice work of scars where the silver had actually come into contact with the skin, but the secondary effects of the contact were already healing.

A horse should have this kind of constitution!

"Okay,” she said finally, “I'm done. Once I check on Ransom's shoulder, I'll leave you people to whatever it is you're planning. I don't want to know about it, though, so please keep quiet until I leave.” Quickly and efficiently she began bandaging Horus’ arm.

Amris looked at Horus’ arm and couldn't keep the wide smile from his face. It was perfect. Doctor Anderson had done an incredible job in removing every piece of silver and cleaning up the damage it had done.

"Doctor Anderson,” he stood up after making sure Horus’ arm was nestled safely beside his body, “I would be grossly remiss if I did not thank you for your aid, and I would be a true brute if I didn't offer you some comfort."

"I know you're tired,” Amris continued, “as are we all. Please, take a bed in a room here at this hotel and get some rest. We will cover all costs and expenses. You've more than earned it. Then we can go our separate ways."

Hope had already leaned over Ransom, checking out the wound there and Tor and Badru instinctively flinched when she neared their Mistress. She noticed their restraint, but it was one more reason she needed to get away from these people as quickly as possible.

She was absolutely astonished when she looked at Ransom's shoulder and saw that it had already begun to heal underneath the tissue. Most of her interior stitching had already been dissolved as the woman's own body healed over the damage. It shouldn't have surprised her; she knew that just based on Horus’ own recovery; but she would have expected this woman to need at least a month in a hospital. Now, it appeared as if a few days’ bed rest would be sufficient.

"Who ... what are you people?” Her voice was a frightened whisper.

Amris stepped over to her side. “Dr. Anderson ... Andy. What we are is different. I can't really tell you any more than that. But what I can tell you, after what you have done today for Ransom and for Horus is that who we are, are your friends."

Then he astonished her completely, when he took her hand in his, went down to one knee, and touched his forehead to the back of her hand. Then she watched in stunned silence as, almost as one, every other person in the room went down to one knee, and bowed their heads, honoring her for what she had done for them.

It was touching in an old world way. Hope found herself smiling and bowing in return though she had no idea the proper response. After a moment they rose one by one. Kiera and Shiri began to set the room to rights while Ra, Amris, Tor and Badru went into the other room to converse in low voices.

Hope gathered her equipment, leaving medications and instructions with Kiera and Shiri for the continued care of her patients. At Kiera's insistence, she pretended to accept Amris’ offer of a room, assuring them she would be close by. In all actuality, there was no way she was staying here. The moment she was clear, she was going home and sleeping in her own bed. She still had a couple of hours before she had to be on duty at the clinic and prayed it would be a light day.

Unable to resist, she checked her patients one last time. Both were progressing far better than she ever would have thought possible and she felt a measure of relief at leaving them. As long as they were careful for a little while, both should recover. Though she shouldn't have worried, she did. As an afterthought, Hope left her card with her cell phone number with Kiera, and took her leave.

Shiri remained with the unconscious Master and Mistress while Kiera ventured into the main room, curious as to the plans being made. She couldn't help herself. She had been a Huntress for too long to be relegated back to the status of ignorant bitch once more.

"The Lunatier Pack is weak,” Tor was saying. “An all out war will destroy them completely. Why would they run the risk?"

"Do you think Hector has gone rogue?” Ra asked, clicking his tongue against his teeth as he considered the possibility.

"We really have no proof Fenris condoned Hector's actions. Or even knew about them. We know Hector is responsible. We should deal with him right away.” Badru pointed out reasonably. If it was to be a war, the planning and strategies would take days. He wanted to hunt. Now. There would be no mercy for the one who had attacked his Master and Mistress so callously.

Amris waited until the three junior Lycan were done with their own ideas and guesswork before speaking up. “Normally, I wouldn't understand Hector's motives for attacking Horus either. But one thing did happen a month or so ago that none of you know about. Ryka's allied with Fenris."

"What?” Tor stood up and shook his head. “That cannot be. Ryka involves himself in no other Pack's business, and he sees alliances as permission for others to interfere with him. He would never allow such a thing!"

Kiera spoke up. “But he did. And an alliance does exist. My brother, Adric, made all the arrangements. Just before he was killed.” It made her strangely happy that she was able to speak about his death without breaking down now, but it also made her sad that her last memory of her brother had to be such an ugly one.

"Fenris’ benefits are obvious. We all know how strong Ryka's Pack is, and if Fenris planned this assault from the beginning, Ryka would make the perfect ally."

Amris nodded. “I agree. It would be an excellent strategy, if Fenris were capable of such.” He turned to Kiera and was exceedingly blunt. “You know him best, Mistress. Is he that cunning?"

Kiera considered the question for a moment before answering. “He is cunning in tactics. He can manipulate his band well when it comes to short range planning, and single, swift raids. But for this strategy?” She shook her head. “I feel these manipulations beyond Fenris’ limited capability."

"So Hector has gone rogue.” Tor shrugged. “And killing him should be our first business."

Ra was about to make the order when Shiri tapped on the adjoining door.

"There are more of the Weret Pack at the door, Ra."

The huge Weret second moved into the other room, and Amris, Kiera and the others had no problems hearing what was said in the other room.

"Your call identified a Mistress? We have no Mistress."

"The Ceremony will be performed when they are both recovered.” Ra's statement was given with the air of certainty. “Her name is Ransom, and Horus has already taken her as his dam and mate."

"Just because our Master finally decides to tag a bitch is no..."

"Open your eyes, Kel, or I will rip out your throat!” Ra hissed his threat. “She lays wounded at his side, and would have died. She took an assassin's bullet meant for our Master. She is not a tagged bitch."

"I meant no insult.” The voice was contrite.

Then they heard Horus’ voice, and it was soft, as if coming from a great distance, but the timbre of his strength could not be denied. “That is fortunate, Kel, because I would hate to kill such a valuable and capable Hunter."

Shiri's squeal of joy filled the room as Amris and the rest rushed back into the bedroom to find Horus forcing himself to a sitting position closer to Ransom's sleeping form.

He was favoring his injured arm, curling it against his chest as he used the rest of his body for stability and balance. Ra started to move forward to help him, but Horus’ glare stopped him in his tracks. He had to lean back against the headboard and catch his breath once he was upright, but he had done it. Now more than ever, the display of his strength was necessary in the company of his strongest Hunters.

"How are you feeling?” Kiera asked, her concern evident on her face and in her voice.

"I'll survive.” Horus said, reaching to touch Ransom's head with his good hand. He couldn't keep himself from touching her, needing to feel her heat to reassure himself that she was alive. “How is she?"

"Healing.” Shiri informed him. “She's stronger than she looks. She'll be up running circles around all of us in no time."

"Where's the doctor? We owe her a debt of thanks.” Horus dragged his gaze from his sleeping mate to Amris.

"It's been a long night. She's sleeping in a room here at the hotel at our expense. We'll make sure she's paid before she leaves.” Amris assured him, unaware the doctor was long gone. “We were just discussing whether Hector was working alone or with Fenris’ blessing. What do you think?” He took Kiera's hand and dropped into the chair still near the bed. It had been a long night for them all and he was exhausted. Pulling Kiera into his lap, he snuggled with his mate simply enjoying the feel of her in his arms.

Horus considered a moment. “Hell, I don't know. Fenris doesn't strike me as being stupid or suicidal ... but then Hector doesn't do anything without Fenris’ blessing and Carlos as back up."

"Carlos...” Kiera bit her lip, something worrying her in the back of her mind. Something important she should mention. “Oh shit...” She straightened in Amris’ lap. “Silas. When Carlos and I were alone, he got talkative. He indicated that he had Silas trapped somewhere, in the same kind of silver chains they used on me. I don't see Fenris condoning that. He's a vindictive bastard to be sure, but Silas hasn't done anything to him. Carlos on the other hand, seemed ... erratic ... almost driven. He acted like his entire goal was to get Amris and I out of the picture so he could reunite his family. That's a far more personal reason than ‘because my leader told me to'. If Carlos could do that to Silas without Fenris’ approval or knowledge, it makes me think Hector could do damn near anything. He's much more of a loose cannon than Carlos ever thought of being."

"Silas is that quick little pup that saved your life, isn't he?” Horus asked quietly. “Wouldn't that be sufficient reason for Fenris to authorize his imprisonment?” Horus sighed, not waiting for Kiera to answer his question.

Something in the back of Kiera's mind was bothering her. There was more Carlos had said, more she had learned if she could just focus enough to bring that memory to the forefront of her thoughts. Her struggle against the effects of the silver had dulled her senses too much making it difficult to remember pieces of the last twenty-four hours. “I can't put my finger on just what it was, but I got the distinct impression Hector and Carlos were working for someone. Not Fenris, we all agree he doesn't have the brains, but someone bigger, more powerful. Carlos even mentioned something about ‘their Lord'. If they have a powerful backer, he would have the money and influence to pull off something like this."

"It would have to be someone very powerful,” Amris agreed thoughtfully. “So we're looking at another Master, if not a Duke.” The very idea was giving him a headache.

"You know, for everything that we know, there are at least two or three things we don't.” Horus was feeling his strength returning and with it, his thoughts were becoming sharper as well. The drugs that Dr. Anderson had given him were already being absorbed and eliminated from his system. “We know Hector and Carlos were behind capturing and imprisoning Kiera. But we don't know why or who directed it. We know Hector impersonated Ransom's father for a time, but we don't know why I was a target. And we don't know how Hector learned that her father was in such trouble. We don't even know where Hector got the money to pay off her father's debt. The Lunatier Pack has never been swimming in wealth, so they not only have power backing them but wealth too. There may be some way to follow the money trail but I don't know where we could get that kind of information on other Packs."

He closed his eyes and tried to focus his thoughts even further. “We also know that Hector was at least one of the people behind those damned bullets. But we don't know who is backing him or financing the project. Now, thanks to Kiera, we know that Ryka and Fenris are allied. But we don't know Ryka's motives, or even his involvement in any of this. I can't believe Ryka would have anything to do with these things.” Horus remembered how Ryka had immediately defended Fenris when the attempt to poison Kiera had failed. “Like I said; for everything we learn, it raises even more questions. By the Moon, we don't even know if young Silas’ disappearance is related to Carlos, or these bullets, or anything!"

Amris frowned at the implied thought. “I hope you're not suggesting we do nothing about Silas."

Horus sighed. “Not at all, my friend. But our enemies have had the initiative for some time now, and while we are recovering our strength, they are still moving and advancing their plans. Ransom needs time to recover, and as much as I would enjoy being at your side while you search for the lad, I must care for my mate."

Shiri made a small strangled sound in her throat. She wanted to argue with these hunters, but knew it wasn't her place. Cheri was searching for Silas and she needed to find her sister.

Kiera though, noticed Shiri's distress immediately. At one time they had been bitter enemies and rivals, but a bridge had been built over that chasm of distrust and the two were now fond friends.

"Shiri,” Kiera spoke up before Amris could respond to Horus’ statement, “what is wrong?"

"It's...” Shiri saw all eyes on her, and then Ra touched her shoulder and nodded. “It's Cheri. On the night that Silas disappeared, she went over to talk to him. She disappeared the same night. Did Carlos say anything about her?"

Now Kiera remembered the woman's distress upon arriving. With her head so fuzzy still from the silver, she had forgotten that Cheri was missing. “No,” she said softly forcing a smile onto her face in an effort to calm Shiri's nerves, “he didn't mention Cheri at all. But that doesn't mean anything bad has happened. Carlos was a braggart, Shiri, and if he had known anything about Cheri he would have used it to taunt me, I'm certain. I'm sure she is all right.” Kiera knew she should have said something sooner, but there was no changing the past now.

Shiri accepted Kiera's answers for the moment, but there was a lingering doubt as to whether her Mistress was saying them to calm her nerves, or because they were true. Having no choice but to accept them at face value, Shiri sat back against Ra's leg and waited for the discussion to be over. She decided then that if she had to leave on her own to find her sister, she would.

"Alright.” Amris said, obviously having come to a decision. “We're all going to get some sleep for now. Ra, you and Shiri will take Horus and Ransom back to the Weret compound come dusk. Your own healers can attend them there..."

"If they are to be seen by our healers, it will be at the Grey Compound.” Ra interrupted the Grey Master, bringing looks of confusion from Amris, Kiera and Horus. “When you called to inform us about the bullets, Khefris and I had a long talk. We felt it in both Pack's best interest to unite our forces for the time being. The Weret Pack has been at the Grey Compound ever since."

"Oh well, that makes things easier, then doesn't it?” Amris asked the question rhetorically, a wide grin on his face. “Then Horus, Ransom, Kiera and I will leave for the Grey compound at dusk. Ra, you will head up the hunt here to find and kill Hector. As much as I would like to know more about his plans, he has crossed the line too often. His life is forfeit."

Seeing the look on Shiri's face, he hastened to add. “I will call ahead to Khefris and have him send out our own Hunters to start looking for Silas and Cheri immediately. Right now, none of us are any good to anyone. We all need sleep and recovery time.” He looked to Tor and Badru and added, “The Weret Hunters can stay awake and guard over the rest of us. Then in ten hours, they can wake us and we can get out of this city."

Amris looked to Horus to see if the big man would agree. Of everyone present, only Horus had the authority to overturn Amris’ plans and decisions. The majority of the Lycan here were Weret after all.

Horus just nodded. “Good plan.” And that was good enough for Ra and the Weret hunters.

A call down to the front desk arranged for rooms for the newcomers and they all went their separate ways for some much needed sleep, and to organize their guard details.

As soon as the last person left them in peace and closed the door, Horus used his good hand to lift the bandage on Ransom's back to check her injuries for himself. It was as horrific as he expected, though the doctor had done an amazing job of repairing it. He knew she would have a horrible scar there because of the influence of the silver, but it would be a badge of honor, and in Horus’ eyes would only add to her beauty.

Ransom had slept through the surgery and all the conversation. However the pain medicine was wearing off and the sudden, complete silence worried her. She hadn't caught any of the words, but the tones of the voices that floated around her were a comfort. Now, as she lay in that dreamless state between wakefulness and sleep, she worried she had been left alone. Where was Horus? Had he decided she was too much trouble after all? She pushed through the foggy layers of sleep to full consciousness, opening her eyes to see the wall. She lifted her head and turned to the other side and her eyes drank in the sight of her mate at her side. He was frowning and looking at something on her back. “Horus?"

His frown melted at once and his eyes matched the smile that spread across his face. “You're awake!"

He leaned forward and kissed the bridge of her nose, then her forehead, then her nose once more. “Ah, Ransom, you're awake...” His good hand went to the top of her head and he gently stroked her hair. “I was ... damn it, Ransom ... you scared me!"

Then he started to laugh, and cry and laugh through his tears because he was so happy she was awake, and he knew then that she would live. He just touched his forehead against hers. “Don't scare me like that anymore. Okay?"

Ransom nuzzled his head with hers “Okay.” She smiled back at him. “I didn't mean to scare you. I just didn't want you hurt.” When he pulled back she tried to push herself up farther, wincing at the pain. Her right arm refused to obey the commands of her brain and it lay unmoving next to her. With a sigh, she lowered herself to the bed again.

Horus frowned as he felt a pain shoot through his own shoulder and a churning frustration began to build within him. There was a notable difference in the connection between them. The feeling was so much stronger than it had been before and the intensity surprised him.

"What about you? You didn't get hit did you? I...” Ransom pulled his attention from his thoughts and back to her while she searched her memory, looking within herself. “I remember seeing Hector point the gun at you and then you stood up ... I don't think I've ever run that fast in my life. And then I grabbed you ... and ... I don't remember anything else."

Horus leaned over, using his good arm he pulled Ransom over him so she was laying across his lap and turned up to face him. His arm was across her mid back, avoiding the wound still healing on at her shoulder. In a quiet voice, he explained to her about the shot and his own actions in saving her life. “I'm sorry I had to hurt you but it was the only thing I could think of."

"Let me see your arm.” Ransom requested, her eyes wet with unshed tears at his sacrifice on her behalf.

Horus shook his head. “Not if it's going to upset you.” He leaned down, kissing the moisture from her eyes. “You can see it later. Right now I just want to look at you and let my nerves settle. You were so brave, but I don't want you to ever take that kind of risk again.” He sighed and his tone became even softer. “I thought I had killed you."

"Oh, Horus...” She returned his kiss lightly brushing her lips against his. “I had to do what I did.” Ransom leaned into him, resting her cheek against his chest. “If what I had done ... if I had gotten you killed, I wouldn't be able to live with myself. Hector wouldn't have even been on that island if it hadn't been for me."

"Stop. Just stop it right now. What Hector does is not your responsibility. I don't want you blaming yourself for anything. You saved my life and almost died in the process.” That Ransom might feel responsible in the slightest, grated Horus the wrong way. He was growling before he realized what he was doing.

"I'm sorry Horus.” Ransom said though if the apology for was for angering him or a reflection of the guilt she still felt, she couldn't know for sure. She frowned, shifting in his arms. “Why am I suddenly so angry? Is that you or me?"

"It's me. We are closer than we were.” Horus took a deep breath, realizing at once what that type of closeness meant. He'd had no opportunity to explain it to her or prepare her for becoming a Mistress. Now, he was unsure how to proceed.

Ransom felt the worry in him, a dawning realization of something important suddenly filling her. She remained quiet and waited for him to verbalize the thoughts she could feel in him.

"When we were on the island and you were shot...” Horus stroked her cheek and then cupped her beautiful face in his hand, “I...” He paused. How did he tell her? She was no longer what she had been, or who she had been. She was a part of him now on every level, just as he was part of her.

"Ransom, we are Bonded.” He spoke quietly but calmly. “I'm not sure how, or what happened to make it so, but I've only ever seen this type of connection between a Bonded pair. My parents have a connection like this and so do Amris and Kiera. You should have seen him when they kidnapped her, he knew every emotion she was feeling and it damn near crippled him.” Ransom's stunned expression left him uncertain if she was about to scream or cry or try and run.

He held her as gently as possible and continued explaining. “We ... jumped things ahead a few weeks. That's all.” He forced a smile. “My love, we are Bonded in the eyes of the Pack, and no one can refuse your title, even you. You are more than my mate now, Ransom. More than my lover. More than any common bitch in our Pack. You are now a Mistress, my love."

"How...” Ransom strangled on the question and had to give herself a moment before she could try again. “How is that even possible? Isn't the Ceremony necessary?"

Horus looked down into her expressive eyes and read her fear easily, without needing the Bond to tell him what she was feeling. “I don't know how it is possible, especially without a Ceremony between us. But I can't deny that I'm feeling your fears as much as you are feeding off my own anger.” He frowned as the import of what he had said sank in. “We will have to talk with Eshe, the Weret Healer, as soon as we get a chance. She is wise enough to know what all this means.” He placed his hand gently against Ransom's cheek and smiled down at her.

"One thing I do know is that I couldn't be happier. Look into yourself, feel me there. You will know I'm telling you the truth.” He gave her a moment, an opportunity to do just that. “I understand you're overwhelmed. I feel your confusion as surely as if it were my own.” He leaned forward to kiss the top of her head, “I love you."

Ransom relaxed immediately in his arms, her eyes closing for a moment as she tried to comprehend the dramatic turn her life had just taken. “I love you too.” For now, it was the one thing she could say with complete certainty. She couldn't completely wrap her mind around the sudden and unexpected bond with Horus, but she couldn't deny it either. She could feel him as certainly as he felt her. It was more than she could try to puzzle out and her shoulder was hurting too badly to let her think clearly.

"Go back to sleep.” Horus said, looking down at her body curled against his. “We are traveling tonight and we need to be prepared for anything."

With a sigh Ransom succumbed to the growing fatigue and let herself slip into sleep, safely cradled against her mate's chest. Leaning back against the headboard, Horus closed his eyes. No matter what had happened earlier, for now he was simply content to have his Mistress in his arms.

More members of the Weret Pack had arrived throughout the rest of the day singly or in pairs. As a group, they had taken over the entire fifth floor of the hotel, and though there was no doubt their money was good, their departure was bound to bring a sigh of relief to the entire hotel staff. Even more so when they watched as a battered, bruised and bloodied young man staggered into the hotel demanding to speak with “Those bastards Amris and Horus."

Ra had come downstairs personally to find out who had the nerve to call on them, and was surprised at the sight of the narrow, blond human. That he was bloodied didn't bother the Weret Lycan for a second. It was the fact that he smelled of Lycan blood, and was carrying a silver dagger in his waist band, that made Ra almost want to rip his heart out at once.

"Is Horus still here?” Marco demanded. “He promised he would protect me. Is he still here?"

"Come with me.” Ra pulled the human off to the side, and out of sight of prying eyes. Once they were alone, Ra was surprised to see that the human wasn't frightened of him. The little whip of a man was staring up into Ra's eyes with not so much fear, as there was interest. “Who are you?"

"My name is Marco Jarvis, and I'm the guy that took Amris and Horus out to the factory two night's ago, and I'm the guy that gave Amris his statement. I'm also the guy that almost had his head handed to him by that prick Hector."

"Hector?” Ra took a deep scent of the blood on Marco and smiled. “This is Hector's blood?"

"Not all of it.” Marco sighed. “Look, I don't know who you are, but if you're here, then Horus must still be around. He promised me protection. I need to lie down. My head hurts, and my ribs hurt, and my whole body is hurting. I need a doctor."

Ra was not the Weret second simply because he was large and brutish. Nor was it because of his unswerving loyalty to his Master. He was also the Weret second because he could think, and knew how to use the brain in his head.

"If Master Horus promised you sanctuary, then you will have it. We will also arrange for a doctor to see to your injuries.” Then Ra smiled again. “And, you must tell me, Marco Jarvis, how you managed to get Hector Lunatier's blood all over you."

Shiri had set the alarm for an hour earlier than planned, so she and Ra could slip out for a bit of impromptu shopping. All of Ransom's clothes had been lost on the island, probably confiscated by the police when they searched for the wolf. Ransom would need something to travel in that would not chafe or irritate her wound in any way. Shiri was bound and determined to make certain that in addition to being comfortable, Ransom was going to look good too.

Fashion diva that she was, Shiri knew exactly what they needed and she dragged Ra to three different stores before finding the perfect backless halter top that tied around the neck, and some tight black jeans. By the time they returned, Shiri was beaming and pointedly ignoring Ra's low growling. They entered the room shared by the Masters and Mistresses, only to find everyone gathered around Horus and Ransom's bed yet once again.

They had obviously just woken and Horus was introducing Ransom to her Pack. She was still laying across his lap, though the blanket had been pulled over her to preserve her modesty. She looked a little dazed and overwhelmed to Shiri, so Shiri gave her a bright smile of encouragement along with a wink. Then Shiri waggled the bag in the air and Ransom called out her first order as Mistress. “Everybody out! My clothes are here!"

Shiri politely held the door for all the Hunters of the Weret pack, and then quite pointedly made a show of pushing Ra out the door. “You get your ‘Mistress' tonight, big boy!"

She was laughing when she closed the door and brought the bags over for Ransom's inspection. “I had to guess your size,” she admitted, “but I am pretty good at that kind of thing."

Horus helped Ransom to her feet, and made to leave as well, but even before he could release her hand, she gently squeezed his and he knew she wanted him to stay.

He sat next to the bed as Shiri carefully and gently helped Ransom get dressed. When they were done, Shiri had Ransom turn around so that she could clean and redress the wound. The ten hours rest had performed miraculous results, and Horus wondered if the sharing of his blood had given his Mistress some of his own regenerative capabilities.

"Oh ... it's looking so much better ... Mistress.” Shiri's eyes twinkled when she used Ransom's title, because she saw the flush of red touch Ransom's cheeks in embarrassment. It would be a long time before simple Ransom got used to her new title and life, but Shiri couldn't feel any jealousy for her. She had her own sire now, and she was more than happy to be with the second of the Weret Pack. “I'm so happy for you."

The bandage was in place and Ransom was dressed, looking as sexy and exciting in the solid black as Horus could imagine.

He smiled at her and he knew she could feel his excitement and love through the bond. Somehow, their senses had become keenly aware of each other's moods and feelings and he wondered if this were a normal aspect of their Bond or not. Their union had been so unusual, and so intense, that Horus was almost afraid of the lingering effects. Not for him, but for Ransom, who might become unsettled or frightened at everything Horus was. “Now let's be on our way. We've got a ways to travel to get home."

Grinning at Shiri, he added “When you are ready, you will be a welcome addition to the Weret Pack.” He gave her a wink as he wrapped his arm around Ransom's waist.

Ransom's legs went weak. Not from any result of her injuries but at the idea of being presented to the Weret Pack as their Mistress. I wonder how Kiera deals with the nerves. I am going to have to ask her later.

"Good idea.” Horus said grinning down at Ransom again. “Kiera is a good source of information. And of course there is always my mother. We'll have to call them and tell them they have a daughter-in-law anyway."

Ransom swallowed, going pale. “Horus, I didn't say anything.” She knew on an instinctive level that he had picked up on her thoughts, but it was more than her rational mind could accept.

"Sure you did, you just said you were going to talk to Kiera later about how she handles the pressures of being a Mistress. I heard you.” Horus furrowed his brow, confused. Had there been more damage than they thought? Surely she hadn't hit her head at some point on the island. He would have noticed.

He looked to Shiri for confirmation only to see the young woman shaking her head. “She didn't Horus. I was standing right here. She didn't say a word about Kiera."

"I was thinking about it but I didn't say it.” Ransom insisted lowly.

"We need to talk to Amris and Kiera,” was all Horus would say on the matter at the moment. He was a little surprised at how clearly he had ‘heard’ her, though on closer introspection, her voice had seemed more intimate. Softer. Touching him on a level he had never experienced before.

"We'll talk in the car.” Ransom moved them toward the door, Horus following her lead so she could set a pace she was comfortable with.

Less than an hour later, they were nestled in the back seat with Amris speeding them down the highway and back to the Grey Compound core at Grey Rock.

"And you're saying it was more than just her feelings? You heard words?” Amris was frowning as he drove.

"As clear as how we're speaking now. I don't understand it, but I thought it was an aspect of the Bonding.” Horus was concerned now. Had something gone wrong with their Bond?

"Well, do you...” Amris struggled to find the right words. “Do you feel each other as well?"

Ransom knew what Amris was asking at once. “Yes.” She smiled. “I feel his strength, and his love ... and I feel how complete he is with me.” She squeezed his hand and felt the swell of comfort that her touch gave him.

"Uhh ... that's not quite what I meant, but it's close enough.” Amris sighed. “When Kiera was taken, and she was unconscious I felt as if there was a piece of me that was empty. It drove me mad."

Horus nodded. “I was there. I remember.” Then he thought for a moment before adding, “But it's more than that, too. I mean, it's like since she woke up, now I feel everything about her. I know when her shoulder is aching. I know what she's feeling about this long drive at night, I know she thinks I'm the best looking sire in this car..."

Amris and Kiera both laughed aloud at that. “Okay, okay, we get your point.” After a moment Amris said, “I don't think there's anything wrong with your Bonding. If anything, I would think you're Bonding is as close to pure as I've ever heard. And you two still haven't ... been intimate, physically, since the attack?"

Horus and Ransom both answered at once, and in both voices there was a note of strained urgency. “No!"

Now Amris and Kiera really laughed. “Well I'm plugging my ears when that happens.” Amris said when he was sober enough to talk. “Because there is going to be some serious howling going on when you do!"

Horus and Ransom both looked at each other then with the mix of emotions they were suddenly sharing, neither was sure of who was more excited, scared, willing and eager. It wasn't much longer before Ransom laid her head on his chest and sighed. It had been a long day for her, and she was suddenly very tired.

Nine hours later and after multiple driver exchanges between Amris and Kiera, they rolled up to the front gates of the Brown County compound. Horus and Ransom were sound asleep in the back seat. When they approached the gates of the compound in their SUV it didn't take long for the word to spread that the Grey Master had come home. Even before he had driven into the compound proper several of Amris’ Pack had rushed to the gate to surround the vehicle.

Khefris couldn't keep the grin from his face, knowing that his Master and Mistress had returned home safely.

"Welcome home, Master Amris!"

It didn't take long for the news to spread that not only had Master Amris and Mistress Kiera arrived home safely with Master Horus but they had a strange bitch from a different Pack with them as well. There was a small welcoming party of Grey Pack members, and many Weret members who hadn't been able to answer Ra's call to Detroit, in the front yard when Amris pulled into his driveway.

"Welcome home, Master,” Khefris said opening the drivers’ side door. “Mistress” He inclined his head to Kiera looking at her across the car, his grin still in place.

Horus stirred, wrapping his arms tighter around Ransom who groaned in pain. “Are we there?"

"Yes, we're in my driveway.” Amris yawned and scrubbed his face. “Thank you, Khefris. Is there a guest house available for Horus and Ransom?"

Khefris stepped back to allow Amris room to exit the car. “I have kept the same house he used for your Bonding in reserve for him.” He couldn't help but to glance at the strange young woman Master Horus was cradling so gently in his arms.

Conscious that others of the Weret Pack were closing in to greet their own Master, Amris chose not to answer Khefris’ unasked question. That the Weret Pack now had a Mistress was not his to announce. He would not steal Horus’ thunder or authority on the matter, by speaking out of turn.

One of the Weret hunters opened Horus’ door for him and made to take the half-awake Ransom from his arms only to receive a growl for his efforts. “I will take care of her.” Horus said a moment later, in a somewhat calmer tone. “It has been a long trip,” he added by way of an apology to the warrior.

Slowly Horus unfolded his large frame from the back seat, holding Ransom to him tightly. “I must talk to my Pack. We will confer in the morning.” He said to Amris. With a polite nod to Kiera, Horus was on his way, carrying Ransom to the guest house.

"Amun, gather the Pack in groups of twenty-five.” Horus instructed his third in command who was still at his side. “I want to see them in thirty minute intervals beginning at noon. Have Eshe come immediately.” If there was ever a time when Horus could not fulfill his duties, and Ra was unavailable, Amun would assume the mantel of Pack head until a new Master could be sorted out.

"Master. Are you sure you should be carrying her if you are injured?” Amun was immediately concerned, clearly not understanding any of his Master's words or actions since his arrival.

"I am not the only one injured.” Horus informed him as they climbed the porch of the small guest house. “I want to make sure the trip has not aggravated Ransom's wound and to confirm she is healing properly. She will need something for pain to allow her to sleep tonight too.” He could feel each twinge as Ransom was jostled while he hurried them to the house. Though she did not make a sound throughout the ordeal, he knew she was in tremendous pain.

Amun opened the door to let Horus into the house since his hands were full. The importance his Master was giving the unknown bitch was more than a little puzzling. “Master...” he began hesitantly, unsure of how to proceed with what he wanted to ask. At the look Horus gave him, he simply backed away bowing and went in search of the healer.

"Amun...” Horus stopped the Hunter in place with a sigh. “All will be explained in time.” Horus gave him a wan grin. “But it is important to me that Eshe come at once."

Amun nodded and retreated down the porch stairs, leaving his Master with the bitch. Ransom? It was an odd name, but he knew many Packs didn't stick to the conventions and enjoyed naming their pups any name that struck their fancy. Why Horus was taking such particular care of this one was confusing to say the least.

Amun found Eshe quickly enough. The old dam had heard already that the Master was wounded and had been collecting her supplies before even being summoned to his side. When Amun told her the Master had ignored his own wounds to care for a wounded bitch, Eshe had simply raised an eyebrow. “Let's not keep Master Horus waiting then."

Less than five minutes after his order had been declared, Horus was ushering his own Pack Healer into the bedroom where Ransom lay quietly. Horus had already stripped her and placed her face down under the covers. She had woken part way through his ministrations wincing at the pain in her arm and shoulder. Horus shared her pain the whole time.

In a rush of concern and fear he explained as quickly as he could to his Pack Healer what had happened to his mate.

"You shared blood and silver?” Eshe asked quietly as she administered a thick brown salve to Horus’ burns.

"Yes. But..."

Eshe put her hand on Horus’ forearm, stilling his explanation for a moment. “Let me look after our Mistress, Master Horus. Then I will need you to tell me everything.” Eshe quickly made up a poultice of green and red leaves and grasses. She mashed it into a soft paste, then removed Ransom's bandage, tut-tutting at the extent of the injury. Her practiced eye could already read how much Ransom had healed on her own and she sighed sadly at how much her Mistress must have suffered. She placed the poultice over the open wound then covered it again with a fresh bandage.

Once Eshe had secured the healing concoction on Ransom's shoulder, she sat back quietly and smiled fondly at her Master. “Tell me everything now, Master Horus. And please, leave nothing out. I wish to understand what has happened and only through knowledge will I know how to guide you."

Horus considered a moment what Eshe was asking of him. There were many secrets that he did not want as common knowledge and he did not want Ransom embarrassed when her part in Kiera's abduction was learned. Or worse, her initial attempts to deceive him. He understood though, that his feelings were secondary to anything in the past if Eshe could explain what was happening now.

When he began speaking, he took Eshe back to the first time he had met Ransom. “I was introduced to her by Cheri Grey, the young girl who is missing. It was at Amris and Kiera's Breakfast..."

For almost an hour, Horus spoke. He told Eshe about them leaving the Grey compound and Amris’ reluctance to include Ransom. Carefully he recalled the train ride in as much detail as he could, mentioning only that they were intimate several times. He told her about what had happened in Detroit, sparing no emotion or detail in his telling. So wrapped in the story, he could not keep his voice steady as he told her about finding Ransom's phone, and the messages on it. And he talked about his pain.

Eshe could see that even those wounds had only begun to heal, and she squeezed Horus’ arm gently, giving him whatever strength she could through her touch. He smiled at her, before placing his own hand over hers, covering it completely.

Then Horus told Eshe about hunting Ransom down, and finding her on the island and how he had proclaimed her his mate. His tale only slowed when he reached the description of Ransom's wild leap across his body, shielding him from the assassin's bullet, but he persevered and the pride and love in his voice was obvious to the Healer. His hand strayed to Ransom's head, and he stroked her hair gently, his eyes watering at the memory.

"And that brings us to this moment. After I cleaned the silver from her wound, we spent the rest of that night, and the better part of yesterday, healing and recovering. I owe Amris much now, for staying at my side while I was injured."

Eshe just laughed at that. “You speak as if you would not have done the same for him. You are similar, the two of you. But for this Bonding."

Horus nodded his head his fear a palpable thing. “Is she going to be all right? Have I ... have I hurt her?"

"Hurt her?” Now Eshe truly laughed, but it was warm and friendly with no malice. “My dear Master ... you and the Mistress have forged a Pure Bond. One only dreamt of since the earliest days of our Race.” At the look of confusion on his face she patted his hand and continued in her soft voice.

"You sang together, remember? In the car? You each took a turn. Just as the song of the Ceremony is one of loss and regret and new found love, so too was that song. I do not fully understand it myself, as yet, but I think that song, and that moment, was the beginning. Even on the island, when she called out to the moon, hurt and in pain. It was you, Horus, who answered her call, and who rushed to her side to comfort her. In sharing that song, you shared something even more special, because you felt it in your hearts.” Eshe's eyes twinkled as she remembered her own lost youth. “I'm betting you enjoyed yourselves, too, didn't you, when you rushed to her side?"

Horus’ blush told her that they had.

"And then the fight at that bar, Ransom stood over you to protect you, just as you protected her when she fell. It does not matter, Horus, that you were not truly injured, because the Mistress believed you were. And you, in turn, did you not fight at her side? Protecting her from the ones who sought to hurt her? I do not think I need to explain how you have forgiven each other. More than that strike across the face, you have lived your own shared pains. You've inflicted your own pains on each other, worse than any Ceremony could provide."

"And you have forgiven each other.” Eshe's eyes were moist as she turned her gaze to the woman resting in the bed. She couldn't wait to finally meet this special woman, herself.

Horus nodded in agreement as he remembered just how often they had hurt each other in the last couple days, only to be able to push it all aside to be with each other now.

"The ceremony of strength and submission was performed when you chose to risk your very lives for each other. Then of course there was the actual mingling of blood with the potent influence of silver. Certainly, silver is deadly to us but there are some properties that aid us as well.” Eshe shook her head and her eyes were wet with tears. “Master Horus, why do you think our Ceremony of Bonding carries so many of these aspects? Our first Lords and Ladies, our first noble Masters and Dukes ... they lived through these experiences just as you and Mistress Ransom did. Our Ceremony is simply a reflection of the things they endured. But with Ransom and yourself, there is no Ceremony you could perform that would be greater than what you have already done together. Stronger than any Ceremony, you and the Mistress experienced the Bonding as one."

Eshe rose to her feet and placed her hand gently on Horus’ shoulder. “It is a true Bond, Master Horus. They are so very rare, because a sharing of blood and silver must occur for them to be complete and few lovers seldom desire to inflict such pain on each other. For you and Mistress Ransom, that choice was taken from you."

"We were not forced to do this.” Horus shook his head at the thought. “I do love her. I was going to make her my Mistress anyway, as soon as we could arrange for the Ceremony."

Eshe kept smiling. “You misunderstand me, Master. I did not mean to imply you were forced to help her, any more than she was forced to be wounded so grievously for you.” She placed a wrinkled hand on Ransom's injured shoulder while touching Horus’ scarred arm with her other hand. “Some things are simply meant to be."

"Do not worry. Our Mistress will not be in pain much longer.” Eshe gathered up some of her herbs and medicinal items and took a quick glance at how well Ransom had already healed. She knew well how quickly Horus healed and was not surprised that the mingling of their blood had passed some of that gift to his mate.

"She will sleep now.” Eshe smiled. “And perhaps she will even dream of her strong Master, and how he saved her."

Horus actually blushed under his Healer's gaze, but she simply chuckled softly before rising from the bed.

"I will tell no one, Master Horus, what I have learned here today.” Eshe was at the bedroom door and waved for Horus to stay seated next to Ransom. “I don't know if my words mean anything to you, Master, but you have chosen well. She is a strong bitch ... stronger I think than even she is aware. To be part of a Pure Bond ... there is no greater gift you can give each other, or your Pack. The Moon Goddess has blessed us with your union. You make us proud to be your Pack.” Then she bowed low and retreated from the bedroom, leaving the new couple in peace.

It was ten minutes to twelve, and Horus had just left Ransom's side for the first time in over a day. Yet, he felt oddly refreshed. Whatever had been in Eshe's poultice was working fantastically and Horus could feel the healing energy flowing through him even as it must be flowing through his mate.

Amun had already arrived and was waiting in the living room with the first group of Weret Pack members. Horus was pleased to see that Amun had brought them in as couples. If his father had been left to the task, Horus knew he would be briefing all the males first and the bitches and dams afterward. Amun must have sensed his announcement was important to all Pack members equally and had gathered them piecemeal throughout the Grey core residence.

Upon entering the room Horus drew the attention of every eye. Those who had been conversing quietly among themselves fell silent, granting him their complete attention. To a member, there was a curiosity in their gaze. All of them were wondering about what might be so important they were gathered in such an unconventional manner.

"Thank you for coming.” Horus started graciously, “I have asked you here to introduce you to a new member of our Pack. She has been gravely injured so I will ask that we keep our introductions brief though you will all have a chance to get to know her better later.” This was more difficult than Horus expected. He was proud to call Ransom his mate. Her beauty and courage was a welcome addition to his Pack. However to spring something as important as a new Mistress to his people was no easy task.

"Is she part of why Ra called several of the Hunters off to Detroit?” Amun asked, more concerned about the condition of his Master's second than the identity of some bitch.

"Yes,” Horus could feel Ransom's growing nervousness as she waited for him to return with those gathered. “Come with me.” He would make his explanations with Ransom in attendance. It was only at Horus’ insistence that she had even remained in bed at all. It had been her preference to meet her new Pack on her feet and at his side, but Horus would hear none of it.

They followed his lead back to the bedroom and crowded into the small room as he took his place on the bed next to Ransom. He automatically took her hand into his and it was a simple gesture that did not go unnoticed by any gathered there.

"I want you to all meet Ransom Ferrell. We met, oddly enough, in this same house just after Master Amris’ Bonding. Since then we have grown closer than I would have ever thought possible in such a short amount of time. She has protected me, and defended your Master against multiple foes. Her intelligence allowed us to find those who were designing weapons to kill our people, and her love for her family guided her through unspeakable tragedy."

He squeezed her hand and was already looking into her eyes, speaking as much to Ransom as he was to his Pack. “By her love for me, and her own self sacrifice, she has found a way into my heart. She lies here, injured, because she took a silver bullet intended for me. Through her bravery, and courage, she has earned a place in our Pack. Through our shared love, she has earned a place at my side."

He turned and faced them all now and he could see the surprise on some faces, the shock on others, They all knew, almost instinctively what he was going to say next, but they needed to hear it from his lips. “I present to you, your Pack Mistress, Ransom Weret."

Ransom blushed, feeling the scrutiny of twenty-five pairs of eyes on her at once. There was a moment of silence as those gathered absorbed his words. Then almost as one, they realized that their Mistress was waiting for them to say something. They moved to her side as a unit. The sires, simply touched her hand and sniffed at her wrist, gathering her scent in their minds so that they would recognize her later.

The bitches waited until the sires had moved on, then each enquired as to what they could do to help her feel more comfortable. The sincerity of their greeting touched Ransom's heart and she was almost sorry to see this first group leave.

"Well that wasn't so bad.” Horus gave her a grin and kissed her lips lightly, but she could tell he was still edgy.

"They probably feel slighted. I can't say I blame them. To learn their Master is now Bonded and they didn't even get to attend the Ceremony, must be difficult for them.” Ransom tried to prepare them both. The first group had been accepting, but there was a good chance not all would be.

"We'll have a celebration with plenty of wine and loud music later. That will soothe any ruffled fur.” Horus cupped Ransom's cheek in his hand and pulled her to look at him. “How are you feeling?” He knew the answer of course but he needed to hear the words in that soft voice that had invaded his dreams.

"I'm still a little overwhelmed. This has all happened so fast. I think ... I want time to just stop and let me catch my breath.” Ransom turned her head to kiss his scarred palm.

"I can cancel the rest of the introductions and give you a day to rest.” Horus offered with a small smile.

"No, you can't. The word is out now, the rest will be curious to know if it's true. It wouldn't be fair not to follow through now.” Ransom sighed. As tempting as Horus’ offer was, she couldn't do that to the other members of the Pack. Her Pack. It was so much for her to take in, and yet, somehow she had a new confidence, a stronger sense of herself, and she knew everything would be alright.

There was a knock at the door, preventing any further conversation. Horus kissed her again before going to answer it and allow the next batch of Weret members that needed to be introduced into the bedroom.

The cycle of Weret members parading through the guest house continued until just before three in the afternoon. Kiera arrived with lunch as the last group was leaving, but Ransom was so fatigued she barely ate before falling into an exhausted sleep.

Over the next couple days, Horus rarely left Ransom's side as she recovered. By human standards, the rapid rate of her healing was nothing short of miraculous. By Lycan standards, it was still impressive and many of the Pack attributed her rapid healing to the skill of the human doctor that had attended her so carefully right after the injury. Doctor Andy was gaining quite a reputation with the Grey and Weret Packs which resulted in a financial windfall for her clinic.

Toward the end of the third day, Horus was called to a meeting with Amris and some of the other Hunters. When he returned to the house following the meeting, the sun was setting and there were no lights coming from inside. Horus had explained Eshe's reasoning behind their stronger Bond to Ransom after she was rested enough to hear it. Although frightened at first, Ransom and Horus had quickly learned that the link was much purer than any they had ever heard of previously.

They had experimented with the Bond between them and found they could control the telepathic link, opening or closing it at will. There was a quiet acceptance there would be no secrets between them, ever again. However, they admitted there were also going to be times when the distraction of hearing another's thoughts would not be welcome. Horus had closed the link prior to attending the meeting. As he climbed the porch steps, he tried to reach for his mate with his mind, only to find the link closed on her end.

Frowning he stepped cautiously into the house, careful not to disturb her if she was resting. He was immediately assailed by a mix of spices and other succulent scents that made his mouth water. Moving further into the house he caught a flicker of light from the corner of his eye.

Though he wanted to see Ransom, he had to investigate. Moving silently away from the hall that led to the bedroom he turned into the kitchen where the light came from.

Ransom was just straightening from where she had lit the long taper candles on the fully set dining table. The small flames sparkled off the nearly sheer, white gown she wore giving her an almost ethereal glow. She heard his sharp intake of breath and turned to give him a warm smile. “I wanted to surprise you."

His breath caught for a moment and he didn't know how to answer. She was just so beautiful and every time he saw her, he marveled at how much more beautiful she was. He could easily tell that she was naked beneath the white gown, and that made his heart race. He was again caught, unable to speak. “I ... you ... it's ... that's ... a nice surprise."

He moved to her and took her gently into his arms, eager to feel her body against his. There was a small jolt of shock when he noted that the bandage she had been wearing the past week was finally gone. Now, on her right shoulder, just below her shoulder blade, she sported a spider-web shaped scar. For her, it would be a permanent reminder of how close she had come to dying. For Horus, it would be a symbol of her devotion to him.

He kissed her softly at first and was surprised at the passion that she threw into her return kiss. He had been so worried about hurting her the past few days, and he knew that she had picked up on it through their Bond. Now, she wanted him to know that gentle was not what she had in mind for this evening. His kiss changed to one that he had wanted to give her for so long. It was long, and deep, and as they tasted each other once more, he felt as if she had fully returned to him and he was whole once more.

When they separated from the kiss, his lusty smile matched the desire in her eyes. “I think, my mate, we should eat first,” she said, her voice hoarse and tinged with sexual desire.

"I've prepared you one of my favorite dinners.” Now her voice was hoarse for a different reason. Though Bonded and Linked, this was the first meal that she had prepared for her mate and she was suddenly nervous at the outcome. She turned away from him to bring the serving tray to the table then waited, as a proper dam, for her sire to be seated before she joined him.

He looked at the covered tray and leaned in; taking a deep breath of the aromas that had been tantalizing him since he had entered the house. Now he was almost as nervous as Ransom, because he wanted this night to be perfect for her and he didn't want anything to ruin it.

"So, what's for dinner? I'm famished.” His eyes were on the tray and he held his breath as he waited for her to lift the cover.

Ransom set the tray on the table cautiously. She was learning well how to make due with one arm though earlier in the day she had been able to wiggle her fingers. It was progress, though frustrating in the length of time it was taking. She was stronger now, refusing to remain in bed any longer than necessary. By all rights, she understood she should be dead, and she reminded herself of that fact regularly when her lack of ability began to wear on her. Were it not for the blessed Lycan ability to heal so quickly, she would still be flat on her stomach and sleeping constantly.

When the lid was removed, it revealed a large, succulent pot roast surrounded by potatoes, onions, and carrots. Setting the lid on a nearby counter, she brought him a carving set. “Would you do the honors?” Normally she would have served it prepared to go right onto the plate. However she hadn't quite figured out how to slice the roast herself in her current condition.

Horus took the utensils from her and rose again to carve the beautifully seasoned and cooked meat. “This looks amazing.” He said with genuine appreciation. The knife slid through easily, requiring very little force to be put behind the blade.

"How was your meeting?” She asked as she poured wine into their glasses before taking her own seat.

"Amris and Kiera would like us to have our Bonding celebration here, and soon.” He chose to focus on the good news, wanting to keep both their mood happy. There would be time later for the rest.

"Oh? That's nice of them. How do you feel about it? I mean, I would have thought you would want your Bonding celebration ... or hell, even the Ceremony, on your own home turf.” As soon as he had cut several slices, Ransom began to serve them.

"It doesn't matter to me where it is. This Ceremony is just a formality after all. I want the world to know how much I love you and how happy you make me.” Horus said genuinely.

Ransom blushed and took a sip of her wine, waiting for Horus to have the first bite. His reaction alone would determine the success or failure of her first attempt at being his mate. Tentatively she opened her end of their link, wanting to know the absolute truth, either way.

As he took his first bite, Horus closed his eyes and allowed his senses to absorb the taste of the beef. Knowing his tastes, she had left the centre of the roast red and juicy, and Horus sighed with relief at the feel of the fresh meat on his tongue.

"Oh, Ransom, this is delicious!” He didn't wait for her response and he dove into a second bite then a third, before he turned to her and smiled. “My Mistress can cook!” He laughed aloud when he saw the image she had projected of herself sweating over a hot stove and stumbling about trying to make everything just right. She laughed with him, and the color touched her cheeks.

"You like it?” Ransom was beaming with pride, because the Bond had told her the question was needless.

"I like it!” Horus picked up his glass of wine and tipped it toward her across the table. “A toast. To the sexiest, most beautiful, most wonderful chef in the whole compound!"

She laughed, and sipped her wine at the same time which sent her into a coughing fit. The resulting bubbles tickled, starting her on a round of giggles. Horus felt her giddiness through the Bond and soon enough he was laughing with her.

Finally they regained control of themselves and looked at each other across the table. Even without the Bond, there was no denying their expressions or need for one another. Without saying a word, Horus got up from his seat and moved his chair next to Ransom's then brought his dinner over, and placed it before his seat. When he sat down now, their thighs were resting against each other and Horus could feel her heat through the sheer fabric of her gown. Though it was only the small expanse of table between them, as far as Horus was concerned, it had been too far. He wanted to feel her touch, distracting as it was.

He forced himself to control the one desire that seemed to want to overwhelm him, though it took greater willpower than he possessed for a moment. Instead, he turned his attention to the dinner. Horus could feel her need for him through the Bond and he struggled even more to maintain his composure. Then, as if through a silent agreement, they both relaxed as much as they were able, in order to finish Ransom's dinner.

And you'd better eat it all, lover, he heard in his mind, because you're going to need all your strength.

Horus chuckled, impressed at the ease with which they were both getting use to the telepathic bond.

"When did Amris and Kiera say they wanted to have the Celebration?” Ransom asked, trying to maintain a normal dinner conversation. The heat and sexual tension between them was more than enough to distract anyone.

"Next weekend.” Horus informed her then he sighed. “Usually we would have more time to plan, but with everything else going on, we thought it best to give both Packs a reason to party. Give everyone something happy to focus on for a change. Silas and Cheri are still missing and Hector slipped through Ra and Shiri's fingers in Detroit."

Ransom absorbed the information and nodded slowly. It was devastating news to be sure. “Of course we'll find a way to make it work in just a week. With Kiera's help and some of the other experienced dams and bitches from the Packs, we'll do fine.” She tried to sound certain but missed the mark by a long shot. She was still very insecure in her new position. She did not know anyone in Horus’ Pack well enough to ask them for help and with Shiri still away, Kiera was her only friend in the entire Grey Pack. For all her recent notoriety, she was still alone in a camp of strangers.

Horus could not ignore the insecurity and uncertainty flowing through her. He took Ransom's hand in his and brought it to his lips, kissing her knuckles lightly. “Honey, they just haven't had a chance to get to know you yet. I've been keeping you all to myself since we got here."

"I know.” Ransom blushed. She should have remembered the Bond and that he was able to hear and feel every thought and emotion. Her face flushed in embarrassment. “They haven't had a chance. It's not their fault. Still ... I wish my father was here.” She kept her eyes on her plate, willing away the tears that threatened to blind her. She shook her head. “I'm sorry. That's not a conversation for tonight. Tonight is for us and to just enjoy being together.” She shrugged off the maudlin thoughts, choosing instead to focus on her fantastic mate and their first dinner together. She smiled and kissed him lightly before retaking possession of her hand. “I love you."

Horus was acutely aware of her struggle to keep the sad thoughts at bay and to turn the conversation in a different direction. He simply smiled in support and added his own feelings to the conversation. “I love you too.” Then he smiled. And your father would be so proud of you.

It seemed that was all Ransom needed. Hearing the validation of his feelings for her made her smile and lightened her heart. It surprised her a little just how much she had come to depend on Horus and the control he had over her. It should have been frightening, but it wasn't. She couldn't be in better hands. “What about you? Will your family be able to attend?"

Horus thought about it a moment before answering. He was considering inviting Isis, his sister, but she was a part of Janise's new Pack now and that still bothered him. He knew it shouldn't, but it did. Ransom picked up on the nervousness at once and located the reason for it with ease.

Invite her. She's your sister.

But ... Janise will find out, and I really don't want her...

Ransom just smiled and leaned over their dinner, planting a deep, long and extremely pleasurable kiss on his mouth. Her hand was on his chin fixing his head in place. After a minute, she released him and saw that his eyes were twinkling.

Okay. Isis is invited.

Then he laughed, because suddenly he had a mental image of Janise showing up with Isis and Ransom just leveling his former lover with a neat little uppercut, laying her out like a starfish on the shore line.

One punch. I like that.

She couldn't help but laugh at the picture and within seconds he had joined her. Soon enough they were both laughing so hard they had tears running down their cheeks. They had to stop and catch their breath, their eyes reflecting nothing but their love and desire for each other.

Being careful of her right arm and shoulder, Horus pulled her over onto his lap and slid his hand under her gown so that it glided over her soft, warm skin. His mouth closed on hers and he was soon kissing her as if he could never get enough of her. Ransom, who had gone a week without this energy, soaked it up like a sponge, clamoring for more of it.

Finally Horus broke from their kiss and his eyes fell to the table, the candles, and the meal that she had worked so hard to surprise him with, and he felt like a randy young pup. “Your dinner ... we should eat ... we ... well ... you worked so hard..."

Ransom's eyes sparkled as she looked him in the eyes. “You really want to stop?” Then she received such a forceful and dynamic image from him she blushed, smiling. Her voice was husky and full of her repressed need. “I think, my love, that can be arranged."

Horus rose fluidly with Ransom still in his arms, lifting her as if she weighed nothing at all. His lips descended on hers again as he carried her unerringly through the house and down the small hall to the bedroom. The need inside him was building in proportions he wasn't sure he could control. It had been far too long since he had felt her, tasted her, made love to her.

Ransom's blood was hot and her body heavy under the assault of his mouth on hers. Her tongue slipped between his lips to duel with his in a contest of desire. She needed him with a desperation that outweighed everything else.

Gently he laid her on the bed, then stood so he could look down on her. She was so beautiful. Her cheeks flushed, her lips swollen from his kisses. Her eyes held a mix of emotions he couldn't define yet he knew every one of them were for him alone. The sparkling gossamer gown hugged her body, giving him brief, tantalizing glimpses of the treasures it barely covered. He wanted to pounce on her and take her with the ferocity of a rutting wolf, mindless of her own needs or injuries. He had to hold himself back and make his hands gentle as he ran them down her silk clad body, simply content to devour her with his eyes for the moment.

She arched and moaned under his hands, that soft sound almost snapping his control completely. He was on the edge. It would take so little from her to send him into a frenzy and they both knew it. Power flowed between them, through them. It was impossible to tell where one ended and the other began. So deeply enmeshed within each other, they fed off the building conflagration between them until neither one could breathe.

Horus groaned and physically pulled himself back when all he wanted was to pounce. “Ransom ... I don't want to hurt you.” It was a plea for mercy. She was too ripe and enticing for him to resist, and she knew it. The erotic images they were sharing, whether his or hers neither could say, were becoming too much for him.

Ransom was in no mood to be merciful. She needed him too much. Lightly she ran the tip of her tongue along her bottom lip and reached for him with her good arm. “I'm not made of glass."

That was the only encouragement Horus needed. His shirt was soon on the floor. As he kicked out of his shoes, his trousers followed suit before his shirt even had time to land. He moved over her once again, and her arm slid around his shoulders as she pulled him closer.

Their lips touched gently at first, and then with a greater hunger. Her legs parted beneath him, and then he was rocked by the sensation of his own manhood pressing forward. Ransom sighed with joy as he began filling her, her moans quickly turning to cries of passion.

Horus felt a tingling in his skin. A wave of heat washed over him and he yelped out a startled bark as it hit him. Ransom wasn't immune, and was just as shocked at the sensation, but she could only respond to the feelings within. She was shifting, changing, yet, it seemed contained inside her. To all outside appearances, they were a man and woman in the throes of passion, but within their bodies, the full raging power of their inner beasts had been released.

Horus’ arms were at her hips and shoulders as he pulled her down more forcefully onto his thrusts. Her right hand was over her head, where it could not interfere with their play, but her left hand had a grip of his buttocks and she pulled him even deeper inside her.

They were both crying out, filled with the sensations of desire and lust that had consumed them. Their senses expanded, growing exponentially with every second. They were acutely aware of every scent and sight as their minds became hypersensitive to the world around them. Their awareness of each other was absolute.

He marveled at the strength of her legs around him as she held him close. She reveled in the power of each thrust, as he took her deeper and deeper. He drowned in the heat of her sex. Horus grunted at the way Ransom squeezed him as she tried to trap him within her. She moaned at every ridge pushing through her folds as he withdrew and pressed forward again.

Their hands glided over each other's skin and reveled in the heat of their contact. Their mouths were locked together as they moved faster and faster, bringing each other to the penultimate conclusion.

As he reached his peak, Horus opened his mind fully and called out to her. It was too much to contain and he had to let Ransom share every ounce of emotion he was feeling. He wanted her to know the incredible joy she gave him. He felt her do the same, and as they shared their mental union, they also shared their physical peak as one.

Then their worlds exploded. As strong as they were, as controlled as they fought to be, they could not keep the strangled howls of pleasure from escaping their lips as the green fire of the Bonding enveloped them totally and united their souls.

Outside, Kiera and Amris were walking by hand in hand, when the windows blew out of the guest house, and the mingled howling of the Weret Master and Mistress filled the night air.

"Hmmm,” Kiera said with a lusty grin of her own, “Ransom must be feeling better."

Silas knew he was in trouble. It had to have been more than a day, maybe even a day and a half since his father had left him chained here. From what he had been able to make of his prison, it was less a cave, and more a long, square box. The silver chains that were shackled to his wrists had been run through a six inch thick metal beam that ran through the ceiling of his prison and deep into the floor. There was no way he was going to bend that bar, and breaking the silver chains was impossible. Fortunately the cuffs were loose enough for him to slide along his wrist, though not loose enough for him to slip free.

He dropped to the floor with his legs straight out in front of him and his back against the steel pillar. He felt the panic beginning to well up inside him and he forced it back. He couldn't afford to panic now. If he slipped that way he was going to be doomed.

His father would come back. Hector would come back. Someone had to come back, and find him.

To free him.

His eyes snapped open suddenly and he hadn't even realized he had been sleeping. It was still dark in his metal case. The burning on his wrists told him he was still chained. Moon and Stars, he hurt so badly. Silas had never felt such pain. How long had it been? He saw the sun peeking through the darkened blinds of the windows and he wondered where he might be.

"Hello!” He called as loudly as he could. “Is anyone there?” He gathered his strength and tried once again. “Hello? Hello?"

He was answered only by the rattling of the wind along the length of his metal box.

There was only one thing to do. It was going to hurt; probably worse even than the silver hurt now but he had no choice.

Shifting to his hybrid form, he tried to ignore the burning and sizzling of his hair and his flesh as it came into full contact with the silver. He began howling over and over again. Someone had to hear him. His howls grew in intensity and he bayed to a dark roof and a sky empty of stars. Someone had to know where he was. When he could bear the pain no longer, his howls stopped and he shuddered at the mournful echo of his own panic in his metal tube. Moon and Stars, someone had to hear him!

He collapsed to the floor and shifted back, unable to keep his hybrid form any longer. The blood was running freely from his wrists onto the backs of his hands and had already created a sticky crimson pool under his right hand. The tears filled his eyes and his pain was so intense, he didn't imagine anything could be worse.

When he could see again, he became aware of the blood on his wrist, and knew that he needed to treat himself, because no one else was coming. He had to stay as healthy as possible until he could think of a way out of there. He did the only thing he knew. He dipped his head and pulled the chain up. Then he began licking at his wounds, trying to clean them. The taste of his blood was unusual now, tainted as it was by the silver, but it was still rich, and the wolf in him accepted the taste of the blood easily. With deliberate care and patience, he cleaned the damage to his wrists, then rested his head on the steel beam behind him.

He closed his eyes and wept as the first wave of resignation and despair struck.

He was going to die here.

Once more he cleaned his wounds, and once more his howling was ignored. He had no idea how much time had passed. Days? Weeks? He had lost count of how many times he had woken to howl until he was hoarse and clean his wounds afterwards. His frustration was driving him deeper and deeper into himself, and he was certain he could only rely on himself now. His blood was warm, and he had learned to ignore the aftertaste of the silver. He was still alive, and that was all that counted.

It was dark outside once more, and he could hear the rattling of rain across the top of his metal tube. It was falling hard, and Silas thought the rain sounded like a machine gun, its bullets hammering away at his prison. He wished it had been bullets, just so that his pain would stop.

Silas had never felt this way before. It was as if his blood were on fire; as if he needed some form of release from his very soul or he would be torn apart. He did not recognize the Fever for what it was, and because of that ignorance he didn't know how to protect himself even if he could have. The silver restraints burned at his flesh now and it seemed the only time he could find solace from the pain was when he gave in to the darkness and the flames that seemed to consume him. They kept him safe. They kept him alive. If the price of that sanctuary was a piece of his soul, then he willingly paid it.

He felt the Fever coil inside him now. It wanted out. It needed to feed the frenzy within, but now, even the Fever knew itself to be trapped and it lashed out the only way it knew.

Silas shifted; his body no longer under his control. The hairs at his wrists and ankles seared from the heat. He howled in rage at his imprisonment and he kept howling long into the night. Until at the end, his howl was the plaintive cry of a trapped and frightened beast, whose heart had broken whose mind had already begun a race towards madness.

Cheri was wet, cold and miserable, and she knew she stank to high heaven. Even shifted, she couldn't get the wet out of her fur and she hated the dirty feeling. She had been outside now for three days straight, searching for Silas. It had been stupid of her, now that she thought of it, to think that she could catch up to Silas and reason with him. His scent had been so strong and she had yearned for it so badly, that she hadn't allowed reason to even step into her head.

It was the same thing whenever Shiri asked her to do a ‘favor'. She never thought about the consequences. She just went along with whatever her older sister suggested, and it was that same foolishness that had already gotten her into so much trouble.

She remembered arriving at the Lunatier trailer park the night Silas left. It had been dark and miserable, and a heavy rain had just started. She didn't think anything of it at the time, since all she needed to do was get Silas and bring him home. Unfortunately, it hadn't worked out quite that way.

By the Moon, nothing had worked out! She had watched Silas go into his old home. She had only been a few hundred yards away. She should have run up and grabbed him, but she was scared. Other members of the Lunatier Pack had been there, and they all just looked so mean. Cheri didn't know how someone like Kiera or Silas could have come from such a dirty pack of dogs. She had allowed her fear to keep her hidden, when she should have done something.

Then Carlos had come home. She should have rushed down then, to help Silas however she could, but she hadn't. She had remained hidden, biting her bottom lip in fear and worry. She had watched from the shadows, wanting to rush forward, and she knew they were fighting because even some of the Lunatier's outside the trailer had paused to listen, before moving on. She had almost decided that she was going to interfere when the car drove up.

It had looked so out of place in this place. The car was new and shiny and it looked like ... money. Then the man had gotten out and Cheri had retreated even deeper into the shadows at his appearance. That the driver was a Lycan, Cheri had had no doubt. That he was at least a Master, she was certain. He exuded the power and the energy of a Master with every step. When he went into Carlos’ trailer, where Silas was still fighting, Cheri wanted to scream.

Then she had watched aghast a few minutes later when Silas was dragged out of his old home in chains! Carlos loaded his son into the back of an open pick-up and then started driving away and still she had done nothing. She watched as the Master and Carlos stood and argued, and Cheri couldn't believe that Carlos was brave enough to stand up to a Master, but he had. Then the Master said something to Carlos, pointed at Silas’ body, then climbed back into his car and drove away.

As she watched the tail lights from Carlos’ truck receding, she had made a totally uncharacteristic decision. The third one that night. She was going to follow and rescue Silas! She was done with being a follower and a coward!

A streak of lightning shook her from her memories and Cheri couldn't keep the curse from her lips. Did it have to be raining? Again? She stopped walking and took a deep breath. The rain from earlier, combined with the mud, and the trees that were thick with moisture just did nothing to help her find Silas’ trail. She knew it was out this way, because she had followed Carlos’ truck as much as she had been able. After a half hour, she had ducked behind a tree when the truck came back empty.

She knew Carlos couldn't have killed his own son. That just wasn't possible. So he had to be out here somewhere. She just had to find where. She had been searching now for three days and there was still no sign of him anywhere. Now it had decided to rain again. If she didn't find decent shelter soon, she was going to be even worse for wear. Her stomach was starting to growl at her even worse than Amris did. Her first day she hadn't even thought to hunt because she had been so concerned about finding Silas. Now she was even hungrier, because she was a wolf damn-it and squirrels and chipmunks might help her keep her figure, but they were nothing for any long term sustenance.

She suddenly stopped walking and realized where her thinking had brought her. If she was hungry now, and she was just a tiny bitch, how hungry must Silas be? Did he even have food? And why hadn't Carlos come back? Moon and Stars! Maybe Silas was dead?

No! Cheri couldn't allow herself to believe that! Sure. She was lost, hungry and stumbling about in the dark looking for a man who, for all she knew, might already be dead. But she promised herself that she was going to find him. Even if it was just his body. She wasn't going to stop until she did.

Then she heard the wailing howl. It wasn't that far away, and her heart leapt with hope. It had to be Silas, no one else was out here.

"I'm coming!” Cheri cried out, but the wind whipped the sound off into the distance and the falling rain muffled its volume. “I'm coming!” She shouted again, then she shifted and ran headlong into the breaking storm.

The story continues in Book 3: Hunters of the Pack: Fever

Trinity has found her own version of paradise in east Tennessee with her husband, two sons and dog. She has been writing since she was old enough to hold a pencil, preferring to use long hand for her rough drafts before transferring them to computer. She lives her life with the same enthusiasm she throws into her writing, often with several projects going at once.

Jim is a happily married husband of 22 years. His wife and four children are just as excited and thrilled with his writing as he is. A military veteran of over 20 years, Jim has always enjoyed writing and sharing his enjoyment of telling a good story. He also figured writing was a better and cheaper way of dealing with his mid-life crisis than buying a red Corvette.