Witchy Crime (Umai) [Completed]

[William the Bloody]

Ryloth, a place where dreams became a reality, for the right price. The funny thing about dreams is that they very rarely give you the intended fairy tale ending. Usually you end up ensnared in a nightmare unknowingly of your own making. And escape from such a fate is nigh impossible.

The young man sat upon his throne and watched the deals being brokered in his den of iniquity. With Ryloth under new management the old ways had to be changed. Yet this rarely ever truly happened. Change was merely a cosmetic surgery, a facelift that made one more appealing, yet the end result was unfazed with enough time. Things didn't change, and neither did people. Not truly. And William had plenty of time on his side to discover just how true this fact was.

As the haggling continued, the price of illegal disruptors versus the price of "free" twilek dancers looking for new homes, William read over the new Intel incoming from his sources. Skimming the compulsory finance reports his focus shifted at a summary of a local incident on Ryloth, his own backyard.

Folding one leg over another he absently scratched the mangy head of Doggo, his pet gurlanin, as eyes flickered over the report. A woman had terrorized a local asset of the handler, the information being sought was for a Dathomiri woman who had recently arrived upon the planet. A woman by the singular name of [member="Umai"] .

Waving one of his attendants over to the raised dais the man waited patiently as his Lord continued his reading. The woman who had questioned his underling, rather vigorously he might add, was searching for this Umai. The financial burden of medical attention was negligible compared to his resources, yet no one did that to one of his subordinates without paying a price, whether it be a pound of credits or a pound of flesh. Placing the datapad down William looked at the waiting attendant.

"Find this Umai, bring her here. She and I have some business to attend to."

The man bustled from sight intent on completing his assignment.

 

[Valgærd]

Ryloth

That was where the trail on Dathomir had sent me. Why the hells would mother have come to this depressing dust bowl of a planet? At the end of it all, I was glad I'd chased up that lead, never in a lifetime would I have come here on my own looking for clues. Glad... only as far as the scarf around my head and long leather jacket protected me from the of the sun and sand. From the moment I'd arrived, I'd been squinting and gritting my teeth against the harsh climate of this place. Maybe that was why I'd been rough with my lead.

To be honest, the poor guy probably didn't deserve to be left in the state he was. He'd live, I'd made sure of that, but he would be on bed rest for at least a few days. I sat in the cool of some dive bar, sipping on a drink I didn't even know the name of, subtly making sure I'd wiped all the blood off my face and clothes. Thankfully, out here, no one seemed to care.

I let out a sigh. I still didn't have what I'd needed. The usless sack of limbs had passed out before giving me the information I was after. That meant that even though I was here, I was effectively back to square one. So maybe my latest clue was on Ryloth, but that was still an entire planet this damned woman could be. She knew something about my mother... so that meant I wasn't going to stop until I tracked her down and found out exactly what she knew.

The door opened and a few twi'leks wandered in.

My fingers twitched reflexively, the small silver pendant floating up out of my pocket about an inch. I forced myself to let out a breath, and lowered them, the pendant falling back into its place. Why was I so jumpy? No one knew I was here, or of those that had cast me a sideways glance, I was a passing curiosity.

No one actually cared, right?



[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

Patience was a virtue, or so the saying went. And as William quietly watched the guests leave upon completing their business and more guests arrived to begin negotiations anew he stroked the head of the gurlanin absently. Patience was a a virtue, yet when one didn't have patience the next asset to have was the ability to feign patience. For only a fool acted rashly when they didn't have all the facts.

As the hours stretched on he felt the rage begin to build at having to wait for such lengths. He could easily have entertained himself with the twilek dancers, or the gambling tables, or the illicit drugs at his disposal, or even taken a stroll through the city. But instead he chose to wait as the man he had assigned to retrieve the woman finally arrived at the establishment where [member="Umai"] was currently located.

Outside the man looked into the doorway and retreated back to the armored figure standing and waiting with a nine man squad equally dressed as he. "The woman is in there. I found her for the Lord, so I'll just mosey on and let you bring her to him." Sergeant Charon frowned down at the little man. "Leave." As the rat scurried off Sarge turned and looked at the squad of Knight Hunters who was standing at the ready. "Our orders is to escort her to Lord William. Do not engage unless attacked. And even then we look to subdue. Move out."

The squad moved toward the building. As the Sarge neared the door the squad broke off into fire teams, four men entering with the Sarge while the other fire team watching the two doors and two windows, the Staff Sergeant standing back ready to assist any of the exit points if and when needed.

Inside the Sarge stepped to the side of the doors so his silhouette would not be outlined by the sunlight streaming into the establishment. The four other members of his fire team began moving throughout the interior. As his eyes scanned the room they fell on a woman who fit the description given. Slowly he approached the table and slid the opposite chair out with a hooked leg before settling his girth into the creaking chair. Hands rested lightly upon the scarred top of the table as he peered at the woman.

"I've been sent to escort you back to the Spire. Your interrogation techniques have raised some concerns and my benefactor wishes to meet you. There's a chance he may have the information you seek. Now option A is we take a nice stroll out of this building, load up in a speeder, and go meet Lord William. Option B is I make you. Your choice. And no, there is no option C."

While the Sarge didn't necessarily wish to fight, neither would he skirt his duty. He had a job to complete and complete it he would. Hopefully quickly and efficiently.

 

[Valgærd]

I could sense something outside.

It wasn't people, per se, but there was... intention. Something was being set up. My heart raced in my chest as my fingers curled around the cup in front of me. I stared down into it, trying to ignore what my magic was telling me. There was movement and sound at the door. Maybe they weren't here for me. In fact, they most likely weren't here for me. Why would they be? I'm a nobody. Not native to this goddess-forsaken place, I had no ties here, no business. Why would they come after me? No, they were after someone else in here, surely. There were a few people scattered about, one of them had probably angered someone high up and was about to answer for that.

Surely it wasn't me, though.

However, when the meat-locker of a man walked into the bar, he made a beeline straight for me.

My heart skipped a beat, the silver pendant once again rising out of my pocket as my magic surged through me. He sat in the chair opposite me, explaining the situation. My breath had caught in my throat and I could sense... something. They weren't going to let me out of here on my own. I leaned back in my chair casually, using the motion to mask a quick sigh as I fought to keep my fear hidden,

"But I haven't even finished my drink yet." I pouted, referring to the all-but-forgotten cup in my hand.

I didn't care about that, obviously. I just wanted to buy a little time. I kept my gaze on the man in front of me. He looked tough, armed and armoured to boot. I had a spell or two that might work, and indeed, had begun to focus my magic as he spoke. But what then? What precautions had he taken? Were there men by the door? Was there a back door... was it guarded too? One question surged to the surface;

What was waiting back at the spire... and did I really want to find out? There was that warning from the woman on Dathomir... mother had hidden her path from me because she had feared me to walk it. Was... was this why?

Nope, not worth it.

I shook my head, offering the man my most flirtatious of smiles,

"Besides, I don't even know your name! Sorry sweetie, I think I'm gonna have to pass."

Well... it was now or never. I stood to my feet, immediately raising my hands to send a bolt of kinetic energy at him. I desperately hoped it would be enough to knock him off his feet and give me enough time to make it to the door before he could get up... but he was a big guy...

[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

Option C. Why was it always Option C? There was no Option C, only A and B. But every time they thought they could change to choices.

It was her words that gave the first warning of her intent. As she stood and began to raise her hands Sarge braced his legs against the table and kicked off to send himself backwards. He wasn't sure what was going to be coming at him, possibly force lightning, potentially something worse. But as he flew back he felt the kinetic push hit his armor chestplate and aid him in flying backwards. Landing on his shoulders he curled his legs and body, rolling through his rough collision.

Around the room the four other members of the fire team began firing stun bolts from their DC-17 rifles, strafing toward [member="Umai"] with a plethora of stunbolts at a high rate of fire. As the Sarge straightened he too brought up his rifle and added a fifth firing arc toward Umai. The five points of fire were meant to overwelm her. If that failed the other fire team was on standby. The Sarge gritted his teeth at Option"C".

 

[Valgærd]

The man went flying backwards, good start.

I hadn't stopped to see how he landed, if he had hit something, braced, or whatever. I had only a singular thought in my head:

RUN

My heart was racing, blood pounding in my ears. How had they known I was here? Why had this 'benefactor' sent such a heavily armed man for me? No... not one, several. I had felt that much already. My head was spinning as time seemed to slow down. My chair clattered to the floor as I leapt to my feet. My only hope was to use the precious seconds I'd gained as a head start and book it for the door. Maybe if I could get outside, I could try and use the ring on my finger to escape, if I had enough time to let the transformation complete. It was a long shot, especially seeing as it took a long time for it to work, but it was my best hope right now.

I turned from the table, racing for the door.

That's when the shots sounded. I yelped as I heard them, feeling one, two, three whizz passed me.

The fourth must have hit.

Sudden, screaming pain shot through me, seeming to turn off my muscles like a switch. Just a few feet from the door, I crashed to the ground. The zap from the bolt had all but disabled my limbs, meaning I couldn't brace myself as I tumbled to the floor. I landed hard on my front, my head hitting the ground with a thud. A fifth bolt smashed into the wall right where I'd been, had I not fallen, I would have taken it anyway. The jolt from the shot had been instant, but it had left a harsh throbbing in my limbs, keeping me effectively pinned on the ground in my own body.

I squeezed my eyes shut, letting out a groan. Even if I had been able to move, everything was hurting, I wouldn't have had the strength to get back up anyway. I wanted to roll onto my back, at least, to see the man who would no doubt be on his way over. But everything was stiff, my limbs simply refused to obey me. So did my throat, uttering a helpless whimper before I could stifle it.

So much for Option C.


[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

The Sarge walked toward the fallen [member="Umai"] as the other fire team members kept their distance and their firing arcs clear. Stopping above the crumpled form of the woman he frowned slightly as he aimed the blaster set to stun at her form.

"There is no Option C"

He fired into her body three times as he watched the stun bolts dance across her body. Glancing at the team members he nodded before turning toward the door.

"Restrain her tightly. I don't want her to be able to move at all. No more resistance, no more attempt to fight. She's to be forced to adhere to surrender."

So quickly Umai would have arms and legs shackled tightly, then have cords wrapped around her form to aid in restricting any possible movement. Then the squad headed out, Umai tossed over one of their shoulders as they returned to the Spire.

LATER ​

William sat upon his throne and eyed the woman laying upon the ground before him. For once the hall had been cleared and it was just him and the woman alone. Well except for the mongrel pet that laid asleep at the foot of the throne. The young man watched the woman stir slightly in her unconscious state. But as she was still currently restrained there wasn't much she could do.

Sighing from boredom of waiting he absently waved his left hand, popping the bonds and releasing the locking mechanisms in the shackles. He figured she was stirring and wished to have a civil conversation for once. Of course a more intense interrogation could always be on the table later on. Using the force he ruffled her bangs from around her face to get a better view of this woman who had flaunted his subordinates earlier. A smirk crossed his face at the visage that met his eyes.

But quickly he turned his head to look upon the ring at her finger. It resonated in the force. A danger perhaps, wisdom said to remove the trinket, yet today William felt carefree and dangerous. So he would leave the bauble where it was. Sometimes overconfidence instilled bravado and having the woman believe she was in control would amuse him. At least until he was forced to show her who truly had the power.

 

[Valgærd]

I felt the mountain of a man approach, standing over me. Straining as hard as I could, desperately calling on my magic, I managed to just slightly twist my head up to look at him. My breath caught in my throat as I saw the frown on his face, before he raised the gun towards me. My heart stopped in my chest for a moment, breath catching in my throat. Even the pain tearing through me seemed to pause for a moment as I stared at that barrel,

Before everything went dark.

So... I'm not dead.

Although, it felt like it. I felt the throbbing first, a steady, dull thrum inside my head, as if something was banging on it from the inside. Next, came the dull ache from my neck and shoulder, drawing attention to the fact that I was lying on something hard, the ground, maybe. Light was hitting my eyelids. The air was cool, pleasant even. As I slowly clawed my way back from the black dreamless slumber I'd been thrown into, I felt bindings on my wrists and ankles.

Oh, that bastard.

However, as I groaned, wrinkling my nosed with the pain, I felt the bindings loosen. I gasped in relief as my hands fell from behind my back. I still didn't quite have the energy to open my eyes just yet, feeling like a cement slab was laying on my head. But something not unlike a cool breeze rolled over my face, brushing aside my hair. That was... interesting. I was sure I was inside somewhere.

I drew in a deep breath, attempting to push aside the pain, as I forced my eyes to open.

I was inside somewhere. Before me sat a man on a throne of all things. I pulled myself from the ground into a sitting position, moving a hand to touch my head with a groan. After another moment or two, the pain subsided a little and the pounding faded away. I wasn't ready to give standing up a try just yet, so I stayed sitting on the hard floor, gazing up at this apparent benefactor.

"So... you're the one holding that meat-locker's leash?" I asked, my voice strained from coming out of unconsciousness.

I gazed around the room, noticing subtly that my ring hadn't been removed. Good, they didn't know it was important. That likely meant this guy wasn't force-sensitive. With a sigh of relief, it seemed that even though he thought he was in charge, I was in fact holding all the cards. Thank you, witch-magic. I attempted to stand, shifting to sitting on my knees, but my head began to spin, so I decided not to risk going further just yet. Looking up at him, I managed to return the smirk,

"Well I'm here..." I sighed, "What do you want?"


[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

Watching the woman stir from her forced slumber he leaned back and crossed his leg over his knee and cast an air of confidence and security. Her voice was depper, huskier, as she spoke initially. Her tone and wording however revealed a fiery spirit that, despite having been stunned into oblivion and hogtied to be delivered, was untempered. He found her answering smirk delectable.

"You have my permission to rise. But if your feel more comfortable there on your knees, then by all means remain."

His own grin widened at his words. If she chose to stand it would appear as if it was through his benevolence and authority over her. If she chose to remain on her knees, the wording of his statement would reflect a familiarity for the woman to be frequently in that pose. He was curious what she would decide. [member="Umai"] had leapt straight to business, yet he denied her the ability to manipulate the conversation or dictate his response.

"Have a drink, if you so desire. Far be it for it to be said that I would deny a damsel something to soothe her throat in such circumstances... Umai."

A nonchalant wave of his hand motioned to the liquor stored at the bar to his right. Again, he played word games. He refused to give his identity while showing that he was aware of her own. After all, he was a crime lord upon the planet she was one as well as being the UnderLord of the Black Sun corporation. Plus he took an interest in anyone who happened to disturb his business. It was bad for a man's reputation.

 

[Valgærd]

Immediately I knew I like this guy.

He was smug, leaning back and crossing one leg over the other. I had already decided that if I was going to try and use my ring to get out of this, it wouldn't be while I was in front of him, less than 20 feet away and without ample time to let the transformation complete. However, even without that, I had the rest of my magic. But without knowing how much he knew about me, I decided to keep that a secret as well for now. Everyone loves surprises, right?

He spoke, his words a thinly-veiled demonstration of his position. I was forced to admit to myself, as the indignation passed, that I was impressed by his wording. Stand, and effectively obey his command and give him control? Or remain on my knees, a position that incites submission? I bit my bottom lip, narrowing my eyes at him. Clever, throne-boy, very clever.

But I could be clever too.

"Thanks, but seeing as you already obliged removing these," I gestured nonchalantly to the bindings he'd loosened, "I think I'll join you."

In my mind, I wanted to swiftly and gracefully pull myself to my feet, cross the room with elegance, and take a seat on the comfortable-looking couch across from the bar. Once there, I could sit down, leaning against the arm rest, with my feet up on the cushions. As it happened, I'd been unconscious not even a few minutes ago, so it was on shaky legs that I stood, and with some stiffness that I moved towards the seat. Eventually, however, I managed to lower myself into it, and settled comfortably with my feet on the cushions as I smirked triumphantly at him.

I was under no illusions, however. I was acutely aware that it was with a nexu I was flirting. I drew a deep breath and let it out in a sigh, hopefully enough to hide the fear that was rising in my gut. He was being friendly enough, but I'd been stunned and tied up just to arrive here, I'm sure that if I overstepped the line there were worse punishments he could inflict. My imagination immediately grabbed that thought and ran with it as I swallowed back my fear.

He offered me drinks from the bar, causing me to glance over to it. However, that last word caused my eyes to snap back to him, my brown furrowing as my heart began to race in my chest.

So maybe being clever wasn't such a great idea.

"My throat is fine." I replied flatly, cringing as a hint of the fear I was fighting seemed to ooze though my words.

Suppressing a shudder, I gazed back at him, forcing myself to meet his gaze.

"May I at least know the name of my captor?" and possible murderer? I thought, shivering.

[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

She was Spirited, this little filly, he would give her that. To the Casual Observer this little scene would be nothing more than perhaps a normal occurrence. But that could not be further from the truth. They were engaged in the game of cat and mouse, a strategic maneuvering of chess. And even as [member="Umai"] rose to walk to the sofa before taking a relaxed seat upon its cushions the two individuals for deeply involved in a verbal sparring match. Their words and the slightest tone inflection were precursors to the next move each would make.

They were two predators each with the belief that they had the upper hand. But there could only be one apex predator and William always ensured that it was himself. Manipulation was not just a way of life, for the longest time it had been the only way to live. And he thoroughly enjoyed his life.

The first crack in his opponents armament was revealed for the off tone of her words that spoke of perhaps uncertainty and a little bit of fear. Her request of his name caused a smile to split across his face.

Rising from the throne, William slowly made his way to the bar, the smile never leaving his lips nor his eyes leaving her form. Behind him the Mongrel dog roused from its slumber. Blinking tire dies the dog looked between its master and the new comer lounging upon the sofa. Rising with it's typical stretch the dog padded over to where the woman sat and placed its head upon the cushions looking at her with its sad eyes.

"Please Miss Umai, let us refrain from such unpleasant descriptions. Rather, I will call myself your insistent post."

Turning his back on the woman reclining on the sofa he poured himself a drink from a crystal decanter, to clear liquid pooling inside the goblet a second goblet was Jose you and he poured an emerald wine into its depths. Cradling both goblets from underneath he turned and moved to the sofa placing both upon the opposite armrest from where Umai rested.

With his hands arrays her legs off the sofa and took a seat before allowing her legs to drape across his lap. His left hand reached out and selected his own goblet to take a sip before turning his head to look at the woman. Taking a modicum of liberty, his right hand began kneading her calf muscles that he had noticed were still somewhat shaky due to being unconscious. Her goblet however remained on the armrest opposite of herself. Which would mean she would either have to ask him for it but she would have to lean across him to retrieve it. He smirked once more.

"And you have my leave to call me William."

 

[Valgærd]

I had entered this game at a disadvantage; several, in fact. My head was still throbbing a little from the stun bolts. I had no idea who this man was or how far his power reached. And, I was in his home, to boot. But, I had a card or two up my own sleeve. My ring, for one, my magic for another. He was yet to try and deprive me of either. So that meant either he was proud... or he didn't know about them.

A smile curled onto his lips, a smile that sent a chill racing down my spine. He had sensed my fear, I was sure of it.

He pulled himself up from his throne and moved towards the bar. I stiffened, keeping my gaze firmly on the man. However, to attack him now or to put up some defensive magic would be to lose this game in which we were locked. My gaze snapped from him to the beast that had been lounging by the throne. It glanced between us before lumbering over and requesting pets. I obliged, scratching behind its ears and cooing softly to it for a few moments.

The man spoke, drawing my attention back towards him. He seemed to want to keep up this facade of ours. I was not a prisoner but a guest, and he not a captor but a host. Very well, the game would continue. I nodded to him before he turned his back to me. I couldn't see what he was doing, but it wouldn't have been difficult to guess that at a bar, he was likely preparing drinks. He could have been reaching for a weapon. He might have been, but I doubted it. We were not locked in a battle of strength, this was a battle of wits and finesse... he had far more dangerous weapons than something as clumsy and random as a blaster.

I was right, it seemed, as he eventually turned from the counter with a goblet in each hand. He made his way over towards me, and considering I was taking up the entire couch, I was interested to see what he'd do.

I didn't have to wait long.

He lifted my legs and sat on the cushions next to me, now sitting with my legs draped across his lap. Even though it was evident he'd poured one of the glasses for me, he placed both on the opposite armrest, well out of my reach. He was very good at this game. The only way for me to reach that glass would be to either lean over him or directly ask him to pass it to me, which would mean acknowledging his dominion in this little tussle of wills.

Then he did something I didn't expect. His hand moved to the underside of my calf, beginning to massage it a little. Oh he was very good at this game. All my muscles still ached from the stun bolts, and my legs were trembling a little. His touch eased some of the tension, relaxing the muscles somewhat. It took all my willpower not to crane back my neck and let out a groan of satisfaction as he kneaded feeling back into my calf. Finally, with his pieces shifted on the board, he finished his turn with a brilliant move, granting me 'leave' to call him William.

My turn.

I smiled sweetly,

"I think I'd like to call you Will" I replied innocently, the subtlest of smirks playing onto my lips as I did.

I eyed the drink, a tactical move on his part. Truth be told, I really wanted it. My throat felt dry, my lips were chapped, and my head still hurt. All of those would be cured, or at least temporarily relieved, by a fine wine. And this 'William' was certainly not the type to keep sub-par drinks in his private bar. Well, there was no way I was going to ask him for it. So, with a soft sigh, I pulled myself up from leaning against the armrest, and leaned over. Reaching across him, I paused with my finger under his chin, brushing against it and attempting to ever so slightly tilt his head towards me a little. Whether he obliged or not, I then reached for the second glass, and unless he moved to intercept, I would bring it to my lips and take a sip.

"Thank you for the drink, Will." I smiled slyly, "but I doubt I was brought here simply to enjoy your wine and your couch... and your hound. What is it you would like from me?"

My words, oh so carefully picked, came out almost as casually as I'd hoped they would, with only the tiniest hint of my racing heart fluttering in my tone. It would be too much to hope that William hadn't heard it, he appeared to be as observant as I was.

Oh goddess was I out of my depth right now.

[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

He watched her with interest. She had chosen to play the game, and he was intrigued. Most would have chosen a different, more direct action, then relaxation and continued sparring. And that would have had a more direct action by the man. An action that would end bloody. But instead [member="Umai"] had come back with moves that had rivalled his own.

Of course he wasn't anywhere near done yet.

Her name for him caused him to smirk lightly, a controlled reaction at his amusement. Then she leaned over him, her light form pressing into his chest as she raised his chin and closed the distance between their faces. Her hand collected her glass and took a drink, a bead of wine collecting at the corner of her lips.

Slightly distracted by the bead he still heard her statement and question. A thank you followed by a compliment then a question that brought the point home with a verbal sleight of hand. Raising his hand slowly to her face inches from his own he brushed the hanging hair back behind her ear before lightly brushing her lips with his pinky to collect the slight droplet of wine. Bringing his finger to his lips he tasted the wine himself with a smirk.

"The name Will is still acceptable with my moniker, Will the Bloody. It still has an interesting ring to it, would you not agree?"

His eyes turned cold. The first push back was the revelation that he not only carried the moniker "the Bloody", but had earned it. One didn't climb to the head of the Black Sun by having tea parties. You climbed the ranks by being cut throat, and sometimes literally.

"Everything is not as it seems, as you surely are aware."

A snap of his fingers and his dog turned it's head and came closer, the dog that Umai had freely shown affection for. Another snap and the dog sat in it's haunches for a moment. Then it seemed to grow bigger and morph, the form of the dog changing as it stood on it's hind legs to take on a form of a monstrous gammorean. The massive creature bowed it's head before turning and leaving the room, finally leaving William and Umai alone in actuality. The revelation that he was never alone would most likely be a shock, yet he wasn't done just yet to show that while she could certainly play the game, he was able and willing to change the rules at any time he wished.

"Finally, the question. What would I like from you? That sounds like a request, love. When I want something I don't ask nicely. I take it. As you well know. You took something from me. The health and vitality of one of my subjects. I want recompense for what you took from me. See, the man is no longer useful to me. And I want someone to replace him. Fate has brought me you. And as payment for your services I may reward you with what you seek. Or I can ensure you never find it."

The smile that crossed his face was cold and serpentine. This was the new rules. The power play. He had the cards, she had a choice. And things were now going to get even more interesting.

 

[Valgærd]

Nothing I did seemed to rattle William at all, not outwardly at least.

My reply drew only a smirk from the man as I leaned over him to collect the wine. As I took a sip, I felt his eyes on me. No… more than that, they seemed to be burning into me. What was it? Had he felt the fear I was hiding? Or was it… something else? He raised his hand to my face. I stiffened, keeping my eyes locked onto his. He brushed a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch causing chills to race down my spine; the first crack in my defence. As he drew his hand back, his finger brushed over my lips, collecting a tiny droplet of wine. I let out a tiny gasp in shock; the second crack in my defence.

He brought his finger to his lips, subtly tasting the tiny droplet of wine and smirking again.

His next words were accompanied by a sudden coldness, as if a switch had been flipped. I was no long staring into the confident gaze of a playful host, but instead the eyes that stared back into me were those of a cold-blooded killer. All at once I felt the true power behind the hand that had been gently massaging my calf, the danger of the finger that had brushed my lips. I shudder gripped my shoulders; and my defences crumbled.

Will the Bloody.

It certainly did have a ring to it. Just as I was processing his dropped façade, he snapped his fingers. I glanced towards the hound as it moved, revealing itself to be… a shapeshifter. The monstrous creature bowed his head to William and exited the room, leaving me completely alone with this ‘William the Bloody’ for the first time.

“Alright… I’m impressed.” I murmured.

Impressed? I had just realised I was quite literally flirting with death. The dog at his side had been a shapeshifter. He was not afraid of murdering in cold blood. How many pretty young things had he cut up because they’d wronged him? Had he killed for less than what I’d done? My thoughts swirled in my mind as everything fell into place.

My legs tingled with the urge to retreat from his lap and bolt for the door, but I stayed put. I wasn’t frozen in fear… not quite, but I had the distinct impression that I wasn’t supposed to move. I was very much a prisoner here. The removal of my bindings? The drink? Letting me think I had power by sitting on the couch? It had all been a show, letting me think I had any power at all.

As the initial shock passed, I was supremely impressed. I thought I’d been keeping pace with him… but he was a master at this game. I drew in a deep, shuddering breath, keeping my gaze on him as he spoke. Although now my cheeks were burning and I felt… almost humiliated, sitting with my legs across his lap as if we were lovers. I listened as the final piece was laid out, and the trap snapped shut.

“What will be expected of me?”

A symbolic white flag. I like to think I’m smart enough to know when I’m beat. It was a declaration of submission, accepting his decree… for now at least.


[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

Finally the realization had become transparent as the fear and horror at what he was mirrored in her eyes. Yet she didn't move, staying frozen in his lap as if any false move would bring the strike of a serpent. It wasn't that he liked playing the suave, composed, killer... He was a suave, composed, killer. It was no act. His choices in life had evolved him into the being capable of being generous and giving with one hand while taking and punishing with the other. Life was about finding balance between love and hate, pain and pleasure, life and death. And he was quite adept at balancing the scales.

“What will be expected of me?”

A moment of uncertainty flickered in his mind at her words choice. Did she say this in subservience or did she mean something deeper? If he had spoke the words that, on the surface, was an acknowledgement of surrender to the victor, the choice of words merely asked what was expected, not that she would acquiesce to his commands. Erring on the side of caution he gave her the same credit he would himself.

She was still playing the game, but by the new rules.

Never one to play on equal footing he, once more, changed the rules. Tracing her hand lightly with his own his fingers brushed the ring she wore. The smile never wavered from his face as he lightly twisted the piece of jewelry on her dinner before giving her hand almost a paternal part of comfort. Was he unaware of the power the force object wielded? Did he know and give her a slightly condescending pat that said he knew what it was and was not threatened? And if he knew what it was, did he also know of her abilities in the force. Unanswered questions and uncertainty was almost more paralyzing then the knowledge that your enemy was aware of your capabilities.

Looking deep into her eyes he leaned forward, closing the gap between their faces. A glance at her lips caused him to lightly wet his own with the tip of his tongue. His other hand slowly travelled up her calf and thigh, the feathery touch ending when he gripped her hip tightly and pulled her even closer into his lap. He spoke softly, pupils seemingly flickering from round to oblong reminiscent of a serpent's so quickly that it may have been a trick of the light.

"What do I expect? Let me see ...."

His lips neared her own, their breath intermingling. Hers had the crisp scent of wine while his own carried no odor of liquor whatsoever. His fingers gripped the flesh of her hip in possession. Then with a smile he released her curves and leaned back allowing her a modicum of space, at least as much as a woman sitting entangled on a man's lap could have.

"I need what you deprived me of. A job done. The man you put out of commission was searching for an item a woman has. I want it. Give me your word you will retrieve it and place the item in my hands personally for my ownership, and your debt to me will be released."

A self indulgent smile crossed his face. If she gave her oath then a new game would commence. If not, he would acquire the item by other means and [member="Umai"] would learn how he had acquired his moniker, the Bloody.

 

[Valgærd]

My breath caught in my throat as William’s finger traced the ring I was wearing. It seemed that the game was still on. Just because I’d surrendered, it did not mean I was allowed reprieve from this battle. No, it seemed that William was not content to accept my yield, he wanted to keep going. This move was deliberate; a sign to hint that perhaps he had been aware of the ring’s power, and indeed my own, this entire time. All the time, that terrifyingly alluring smile never left his lips.

He gave my hand an almost fatherly pat, as if to prove that he did not feel threatened by me at all, even knowing the power I could wield. I felt a bright flash of anger, but it was quickly subdued. As powerful as I am, and he wasn’t threatened? How much power had he that I didn’t know about?

As if able to read my thoughts, that piercing gaze staring directly into my eyes, as if he could see everything that I was. My breath caught in my throat as he leaned in closer, my heart thudding in my chest. No matter my own thoughts on him, my body seemed to be reacting exactly how he wanted it to, as if he was taking that from me as well as everything else. I tried to suppress a gasp as his hand moved up my thigh, grabbing my hips, and with strength that far outmatched my own, pulled me onto his lap. The gasp of surprise caught in my throat as I suddenly saw his eyes… change? They did… something, I’m sure of it.

My heart raced as I sat on his lap. To an outsider we may have looked like two lovers sharing a tender moment, but in reality, I had been knocked to the ground, William the Bloody holding his weapon over me, ready to deliver the final blow.

He spoke softly, his voice a delightfully deep purr as his lips moved, close enough to me that my own tingled in anticipation. I could feel the warmth from his breath washing over me. His hand was still on my hip, holding me in place with that vicelike grip. If I was so frozen in fear, if I so feared for my life… why was it that the only thing I could think about was that alluring voice, that predatory gaze?

Simultaneously depriving me of my desires and rescuing me from my wandering thoughts, he spoke, detailing what he expected me to do. Another well-placed shot, it seemed. The command left no room to be twisted and turned to my own ends.

There was a small part of me tempted to refuse him, to find out what he would do if I didn’t play by his rules. My heart fluttered as I bit my lip in thought. Would he entertain such a rebellious action? Remembering that terrifyingly cold stare from earlier… I decided that perhaps it was better to behave myself for now.

I let out a sigh, lowering my gaze,

“You have my word…” I trailed off. Somehow ‘Will’ didn’t seem appropriate anymore.


[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

The Duality of emotions, anger and fear, were reflected deep within her eyes. Yet [member="Umai"] was neither overcome by the terrifying nor the rage inducing instincts of fight or flight. A cool appraisal of just how useful the woman could be flickered in his mind. The fact that she was just now beginning to grasp the complexity of the game they were playing and could maneuver his obstacles almost smoothly spoke to her intelligence. Just as her acquiescence to his demand. She would most likely continue to look for a way to subvert his control that had been granted, and he would seek to find new bonds to bind her to his ever whim.

The sigh and casting her gaze away was a masterful stroke. Could it mean she had been broken, or merely biding her time until circumstances were more beneficial? Again, he assumed she would be difficult, just as he would, and assumed she would play along until the opportune moment. Yet her giving an oath was something. Most witches believed their word was an unbreakable bond. He would be curious to know if this was true for her as well.

But back to the problem at hand. Eyes still examined the face before him with interest. He had nothing pressing at the moment, and the new play thing sitting in his lap gave him several ideas of how to stay entertained. And one thought rose to mind above all others.

His hands returned to her hips, spreading fingers getting a firm grip as he leaned his face in, as if a lover that sought to be intimate with their partner. The coy look and slightly parted lips on his face surely testified to the potential. But with his firm grip on her hips he raised himself and the woman from the couch, slowly lowering her to stand in her feet while slightly brushing their bodies together in the motion. A smirk fell from his lips as he turned his head to the side, just slightly.

"Let us play a game. Hide and seek. There is a woman on Ryloth, and not too far from here actually, who knew your mother. I believe that is why you are here, is it not? And then after that, we can see to my repayment."

She had already abdicated to his authority so, without giving her time to answer, he strode off to one of the balconies where an expensive landspeeder rested. Opening the passenger door he hopped in and reclined the seat, awaiting Umai to get behind the wheel. His left hand silently tapped the dash where a readout popped up with a location beacon. Their destination. Closing his eyes he waited for the woman to answer his summons and silent commands.

 

[Valgærd]

The man sitting beneath me on the couch seemed to be revelling in his apparent victory… and yet, his guard had not been lowered, nor did he seem to relax at all. Perhaps this was how he had become as powerful as he had, by never letting up, never letting himself enjoy a victory. For a moment, my mind went back to the man I’d put out of action. Suddenly, his reluctance to reveal the information made sense. If William the Bloody was my employer, I’d have been equally as reluctant to betray him.

I suppose, in a way, he was now.

He seemed to still be studying me, trying to read me, scrutinizing my every breath and blink. My cheeks felt flushed as I’m sure I was turning beet red, unable to escape that intense glare. He said nothing, letting the silence that had befallen us hang in the air.

Then he suddenly moved his hands, gripping my hips as he stood us both up from the couch. Another well-placed move; he was physically controlling me, commanding my body without even giving me the opportunity to decide to obey him. He stood with his head leaning in close to me. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest; and swallowed as subtly as I could to try and calm it. I could see by the smirk on his face as he slightly tilted his head that this was exactly the reaction he was vying for. I could feel an almost alien desire taking control of me, my lips tingled with the urge to lean in and taste him for myself. But to do so would be to fall on my blade in this battle. So, I instead let my eyes linger on his lips until he moved.

Finally, he spoke, telling me that we would be playing a game of hide and seek. A woman who knew my mother? I didn’t even try to suppress the gasp that escaped at the sound of that information. We were going to go and find her, it seemed. How did he know so damn much? That I was looking for my mother? That he had the answer? I could help but feel as if he was stringing me along by a leash of which he was far too proud, lording over me the information he had that he knew I wanted.

Before I could answer, he strode off, his stepping away from me causing a soft sigh of mixed relief and disappointment that he’d broken the strange almost-trance he’d seemed to trap me in. As if coming out of a dream, I glanced around.

He approached a speeder, pulling open the passenger side and climbing in. I took a few moments to make sure my legs wouldn’t tremble when I took a step, before following him towards it. By the time I reached him, coordinates had been punched in and he waited with his eyes closed. Another clever move. He clearly saw me as no threat, enough that he didn’t even need to watch me. I paused for a moment, one leg in the speeder and one on the floor, as a thought crossed my mind.

I still had my magic. He wasn’t currently watching me. I could syphon his very life force from his chest. I envision lashing out my arm, feeling the magic course through my veins as a dark tendril would latch onto his chest, draining his energy…

Clearing my throat, I shook my head and slid into the seat, banishing the thoughts. Powering up the speeder, I checked the coordinates and pulled away from the balcony. My uncle had made sure I could pilot anything I might need to, so the ride was smooth as we began towards our destination. After a few moments, I glanced over to him,

“How… do you know so much about me?”



[member="William the Bloody"]

 

[William the Bloody]

[member="Umai"] paused as she entered the speeder. His face remained impassive to the emotions and thoughts most likely flickering through her mind like an old holofilm. She had options. Retreat, rebel, or acquiesce. His breathing did slow for those very long, tangible moments that led to her decision. The decision to comply.

He heard the leather cushion creak under her diminutive weight, the door close, the speeder start. The rush of elation at winning another round was merely a cold breeze against the shadow of his soul. The games were necessary for his facade as the UnderLord, yet it was sustenance to the man. Manipulating and breaking others brought him true joy.

Blinking as if waking from a nap, he turned shrewd eyes to the young woman as her words rang out. He allowed a smile to grace his lips as he contemplated whether he would indulge the woman in her inquisitive query. Looking upon her profile as Umai's eyes followed the road which led the way. The sideways glance from the woman was filled with a subservient defiance. Such delectable, opposing mindsets. Watching as the wind whipped the hair around her face, he reached out and brushed the loose strands back for an unfettered view of her beauty.

"Ah, there is the face. I was right in looking upon your beauty while you stirred."

He knew his words would have an effect on the woman. She would recall the rustling of her bangs as she woke. Uncertainty would now consume her. Did he crouch over her as she laid dormant, moving the hair with his hand? Did he have force abilities and this was him alluding to their usage? Did he have his shapeshifter do it for him? It was a loaded statement that he didn't seek to clarify, basking in the Oblivion of the unknown.

Stifling a yawn with a clearly manicured hand, the feigned (or was it) boredom spoke volumes that would add to the convoluted deciphering of the young man. Stretching his arm he lightly allowed his hand to land on her thigh, fingers tightening to draw perfectly shaped nails loosely along the material clothing her leg. Was it sexual? Was it a show of ownership?

"Now what kind of Lord would I be if I was not to be fully aware of his own constituents? As for knowing you ... It's not that you have taken great lengths to hide your identity nor to purge your records. It was merely a matter of due diligence. Or perhaps you speak in your sleep."

He closed his eyes once more, his lips twisted in amusement as they continued toward their destination. Yet his hand did not leave her thigh.

 

[Valgærd]

I sensed that William was watching me, even though he was neither facing me, nor even had his eyes open. However, I felt as if he was studying me; not warily, even, but curiously.

As the speeder roared away, the man sitting beside me blinked casually, turning slowly to watch me. He probably knew I was watching him out of the corner of my eye. He probably knew that even though I did my best to quell it, my heart was racing and my breaths were shallow. Between waking up on his floor and climbing into the speeder I had learned it was safer to presume he knew more than I did.

These thoughts were swirling around my mind that I didn’t realise he’d reached out to brush a hair off my face until his fingers brushed my skin.

I flinched, a tiny yelp escaping my lips.

He spoke, his words cutting through the blood pounding in my ears. They were a clue, a tease. Everything he did was deliberate and planned. My mind went back to when I’d first awoken, that sensation of a strand of hair being brushed off my face. I’d wondered if it was the wind… was William force-sensitive, then? Or was his shapeshifting pet? I sensed that this was his desired reaction, to dangle a morsel of information in front of me and watch me squirm as I tried to work it out.

I forced myself not to wrinkle my nose as I pondered the thought, refusing to give him the satisfaction.

However, before I could draw any conclusions he yawned, reaching over and placing a hand on my thigh. I gasped, my body instantly tensing as I felt his fingers on my flesh. Beneath the fabric of my clothes goosebumps erupted on my skin and my heart flutter. My fingers tightened on the steering column as I vehemently buried my reaction, listening as he spoke.

He closed his eyes again, meaning he didn’t see me turn my head to face him.

“I’m almost flattered,” I replied, cringing at the slight waver in my voice as I studied that amused smile on his lips, “that you would go and find out all about me. Do I matter that much? Or did you just like what you saw?”

I suppressed a sigh, not as calculated a move as William’s. I could barely concentrate, my mind flooded with a swirling torrent of fear of him… as well as an allure to him to which I would never admit.


[member="William the Bloody"]