At the Limit
Nightfall arrived in the city of Chantilus, quickly, and for most of the city, a great hush of silence also befell the streets. While some streets were quiet and seemingly desolate, other streets were loud; boisterously loud. Mostly the streets where night clubs and pubs were located, those types of places never slept. There was the occasional sound of cars driving around the streets, and the sound of humans roaming around; night owls. For the animal community though, many were soundless. There were still some dead end streets, where Alley cats that were in "gangs" met up with their gang members. There were some streets where Alleys were doing business with other Alley cats, selling nip and other things. And on certain street corners, some more loose Alley cats stood hoping to sell themselves for either a place to stay or for some food, being as hungry as they were, some even did it for protection against some of the Alley gang's now on the streets. A young teen aged Silver tom scavenged around an empty and pitch black corner of a dead end street. He was cautious, for he had been mugged by others on many occasions before, and there was no way he was going to do any unsavory things to survive. Well, he would for his half brother, to keep them both alive, but he wasn't that desperate yet. Finding what he and his brother needed, he pulled out the worn and pretty holey piece of cloth. It was a dirty and thin blanket, but it would have to do. The October air, was quite chilly, and on this night, it was even colder then normal. Moving back towards a tilted box, another dark tom stirred within it. Carefully, he nudged the darker tom with his toes.
"Hey, I found us this. It'll keep us warm tonight." The silver tom spoke softly.
Blinking sleep glazed eyes up at his half brother, he sniffed the air. Wrinkling his nose, he shook his head,"I don't think so. There's no way I'm letting that piece of trash touch this fur."
Rolling his eyes, the Silver tabby tom groaned out,"Fine Jagger. That's fine, guess you'll just have to sleep under me to keep warm."
Before the tom could chuckle, Jagger snorted,"Not one of your best lines, Adonis."
Adonis did feel slightly irritated with his younger brother, what brother didn't get irritated by their siblings, but he did love the dark Maine coon mix. "Come on then, make some room for me." There was a stifled yawn, and Jagger seeing how tired Adonis was, finally caved and moved over enough for Adonis to slip in beside him.
Moving in, he curled up against Jagger, as much as he could and then covered himself up with the blanket, mindful to keep it from touching his brothers 'perfect' fur. Just when he got comfortable, Jagger had to go and switch positions, kicking him in the side. Blowing out a hot breath of air, Adonis spoke,"What's the problem?"
"Nothing, just...are we safe here?"
"Don't worry Jagger, I'll stay up a few more hours and keep watch. Rest easy."
Jagger began to protest, for Adonis had been up a while now, and looked more tired then Jagger felt, but Adonis cut him off, and Jagger knew better then to get in Adonis way when he was being all protective. Was rather cute, too. "Then I'll say good night."
"Good night." Adonis spoke fondly, before his bright green eyes looked up towards the only way into the street, on the lookout for any unknown cats creeping close to Jagger and himself.
--- ---
Meanwhile, the Jellicle Junkyard was enveloped in silence. All the Jellicles were currently fast asleep in their dens, aside for the two guardians: Munkustrap and Plato, keeping watch and patrolling around the yard. The only other Jellicle up was Old Deuteronomy. Nervously, Deuteronomy walked, or rather paced just outside another cats den. Hesitantly, he raised his paw, seriously considered turning around and leaving, before he finally knocked on the wooden door of the wooden den. Most dens were just openings between pile of junk and made into a livable place, with a blanket of some sort covering the entrance. However, there were a few that were made with wood with a wooden door to boot. A frown tugged at the corners of his lips, and he began to turn away. It was very late, Deuteronomy should have known better then to disturb anyone this late. A straining creak caught his attention, and looking behind his shoulder, he saw Gus, half awake, opening up his door.
It was clear Gus was not fully awake, but Deuteronomy saw the confusion creep onto his friends features. "Leader?" He asked, as though he might be having some sort of dream.
"Yes, I am so sorry to wake you dear friend. I should have waited until morning. I will talk to you then."
Gus tilted his head, hiding a yawn and reached out for Deuteronomy. "No it is quite alright. I don't mind the intrusion. And I am already up, so you might as well come inside."
Deut never took his paw, but he did turn around and walk back towards Gus. As soon as Gus backed up and made room for Deut, the leader entered Gus' den and closed the wooden door behind him. He was offered a place to sit down, and so Deuteronomy did.
"Would you like anything to drink?" Gus asked, his voice still thick with sleep. He walked back towards the back of his den where a few jars half of his size were placed, all of them full of water. With two round shards, that looked like cups to the two Jellicles in paw, he opened the lid. He filled his cup with water, then looked back at Deuteronomy.
"Uh, no it is quite alright. I'll be fine."
Gus shook his head, filling Deuteronomy's cup just in case. Closing the lid, and carefully walking back towards Deuteronomy, Gus sat down across from the Jellicle Leader. He placed Deut's cup down beside him and then sipped from his own. He eyed the leader as he did so, and when he swallowed down and set his cup down in his lap, he asked the question.
"So...Why are you here? Is everything alright?"
Deut took a deep breath, before he shrugged his shoulders,"Yes everything is alright, there's nothing wrong with the tribe...Or," Deut began knowing Gus' next question,"Your kids. Your two children are fine as well."
Gus nodded, keeping his mouth shut. Deuteronomy obviously had something important to say, otherwise he wouldn't have been at his door so late at night. So Gus left it up to Deut, giving the leader as much time as he wanted in order to say what he needed.
"Gus." Deut started, wincing at the uncertainty in his own voice. "I was wondering if that offer still...stood. About-"
"You coming to talk to me anytime?" Seeing Deut nod slightly, Gus understood. "Yes, yes, of course. Didn't know you'd be waking me up this late though." Smirking, he leaned back against the pillow where he sat. "Take as much time as you need, I'll be here and I'll listen."
Deuteronomy did take his time, most likely sorting out when he wanted to say. Gus of course kept taking sips of his drink so he would stay awake. Finally, Deut spoke. "I would have come to you about this at a reasonable hour. However, lately my nights have not been restful. I just couldn't stand another night."
"Oh I am not mad. I admit it was a poor attempt to lighten the mood. When I said anytime, I meant it."
Taking in a deep breath and letting out a long sigh, Deut continued. "Suppose it is high time I talk about what happened that night. I haven't spoken to anyone about this mainly because I didn't want the others to know. To know how scared I had been when Macavity and some of his Hexes dragged me off. Silly notion, huh?"
Shaking his head, Gus resisted the urge to reach out to Deuteronomy. "Not at all. Being afraid at a time like that is only natural. I would be worried about you, if you hadn't been afraid." There was a small smile on Deut's face, and Gus was slightly relieved at seeing it.
"Thank you, my old friend." He licked at his dry lips once, and then continued with his story,"I wasn't with them for very long for them to do any damage. Well any considerable damage. My son, Gus...Endrance, he was there, the one in charge of interrogating me."
"Endrance...? Endrance. Little Endy? But, I thought his mother and him, got cornered by Pollicles on the streets returning to the junkyard from visiting their humans. And were killed."
"Yes. That was what I was told. I suppose it's possible that Macavity had found Endrance before he died, tended to his wounds and ended up raising him." Deut shook his head sadly,"It wasn't the interrogation or the threats that hurt, Gus. It was seeing my boy all grown up, and seeing the hatred in his eyes. He knew. He knew I was his father, and he didn't seem to care."
Gus, that time, did reach out, and placed a comforting paw on top of his leader's paw. "I'm sure, after so many years living with Macavity, the ginger tom could have poisoned his mind. Told him lies about you somehow abandoning his mother and him to the Pollicles. He was young, Old Deuteronomy. It is possible he believed Macavity. Do not blame him for the actions of Macavity."
"I don't, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't still hurt. It does. Whether or not he is misguided. It pained me to look up into his eyes, and see only pain mixed with agony, drowning in a sea of hate. I could do nothing. That hour, Gus, that hour it took for the others to rally behind Mistoffelees to help him locate me and bring me back. That hour was the most helpless I've ever felt. I don't know if I could bare something like that again. Not at my age, not anymore."
"I admit, you have seen more death, pain, and hurt then most of the Jellicles in the tribe now. I understand how it has weighed you down. That brightness, and innocence; the happiness that use to be in your face so many years ago, during your first few years after becoming leader, has seemed to fade with time. However, among all that their is still joy to be had. You're not alone, Deuteronomy, you have the whole tribe that would stand by you." He paused but added after a moment's thought,"And you have me. I'm your friend, and will help you in any way I can. Even if it's only to lend a listening ear, and give out advice that only makes sense half the time."
Deuteronomy's paw turned underneath Gus' and held Gus' paw in his. "Your advice is always appreciated. It helps a lot more then you think it does." Deut stole a glance from Gus. "Gus, may I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"Do you..." He shrugged,"This might be awkward, but do you ever think about us? I mean, what we use to have?"
Gus stared, for quite a while, before swallowing down a lump in his throat. "Honestly? Yes. I hope that doesn't offend you. I understand why we stopped, and all. Though it wasn't...wasn't..."
"Fair. I know. Back then, two toms together, or even having the faintest of feelings towards each other was "wrong". Hopefully, I've guided the tribe enough to be more open minded about such things. Gus, it does not offend me. I do sometimes, think about what would have been, had our relationship been accepted back then."
The two friends smiled at each other. "Shall we just leave it at that then?" Though, before Deuteronomy could respond, Gus with his free paw set down is cup, and grabbed the other one off of the floor. "Care for a drink now?"
Deuteronomy sighed, knowing this is what had to be. Friends. Though, they were good friends, so he knew he shouldn't complain or yearn for more. It was just a fact, they both had no romantic feelings for one another, just a passing interest of a shadow of once was. "A drink would be good about now. Thank you." He accepted the drink, and the two shared in stories, catching up with one another. For they were too awake for either of them to sleep again.
~^*^~
The dawn approached quickly, and the white medium haired queen stepped out of her 'temporary' den. Her brilliantly emerald eyes shone in the morning sunlight, and she was quick to head off towards the Jellicle's Infirmary. It was a private den that all sick and injured cats stayed in. No one really lived there, but the orange and white tabby she had run into when she first arrived: Jennyanydots, did work in the den and on the patients. Stretching, Vimala, turned and walked on down one of the paths, getting closer to the infirmary. As she neared her destination, however, she was stopped. The brown and white tom approached her, and she squinted her eyes, digging up the name he had told her weeks ago, shortly after her arrival to the yard. It hit her and she waved at him.
"Good morning, Tumblebrutus."
"Morning, Vimala. Headed to the infirmary again?"
"You know as well as I do that you already know the answer to that question."
"True, I see you heading there at the same time every day. Though, Rumpus is fine, don't know what you get yourself worried over."
"I don't worry. He saved me from a Pollicle dog. I'm just really grateful. Besides, Jenny's got him locked up in that den, the least I could do is make his stay there a bit more bearable."
Tumble smirked, debated, then added,"I didn't know you were going to be here today. Didn't you say-"
"Yeah yeah, but I'm going to stay just one more day, then I'll be out of here."
Tumble chuckled under his breath," Alright." Of course, she had been saying 'just one more day' since she first got to the yard almost a month ago. He and a few of his friends had already begun placing bets to when she'd finally admit that she was staying. Though one was betting she'd eventually leave. "Well have fun, and say hello to Rumpus for me, would you?"
"Sure." Vimala was smiling at him, and with one final goodbye from the both of them, Vimala continued on her way. The walk to the Infirmary didn't take long. Jenny was already bustling about inside the den, and she even heard an annoyed Rumpus arguing with the healer. Chuckling to herself, Vimala cautiously popped her head into the Infirmary.
"Hello? Anybody home?" Really, she didn't need to ask, but she felt the need to announce her entrance beforehand.
"Come in, come in." Jenny said, ignoring Rumpus' pleads to leave. Jenny had bandages and certain bottles that probably contained certain medicines in her paws. Catching Vimala's eyes she shrugged,"Just cleaning up a bit, and organizing my medicine bottles." She sighed before adding,"Last couple weeks, Rumpus has been getting restless. He either makes a mess of the Medicinal equipment, or changes different medicine's into different labeled bottles to amuse himself. You ever hear of anything more juvenile?"
"I heard that." Rumpus called out from one of the back rooms. "Now let me out of here!"
Jenny dropped the bandages down on a spare bed and gripping one of the bottles in her right paw she shook her head. "No, you're not leaving here, not until you grow some common sense. There's no pill for that, but if there were..." She trailed off, only Vimala saw the silent threat in Jenny's eyes.
"You're worse then a bloody jailer." Rumpus complained.
Vimala bit her lip, when she saw Jenny huff under her breath. "A jailer...? Rumpus, may I remind you that you were dragged in the junkyard unconscious? You suffered a pretty bad concussion and left you in a coma for a week. That sounds serious to me. You take too many risks, I don't want you to be dragged in the junkyard one of these days with damage too extensive for me to heal you. Trust me, this is for your own good."
Silence followed, and Jenny waited a few moments, before picking up the bandages she dropped on the bed.
"May...I go in and see him?" Vimala spoke up finally.
"Oh, sure. If you can tolerate his moodiness, then be my guest." She grinned, before moving out of the way to clean up the Infirmary a bit.
Giving a polite smile, Vimala slipped passed her, and walked into the back room. Scanning the room, she couldn't help but gaze intently at the mess, a mess Rumpus no doubt caused himself. The black and white tom stood near the corner of the room, his fist on the wall. She looked a little more closely, seeing the muscles in his back, that was facing her, were tense. Moody is what Jenny called it, but Vimala supposed she couldn't blame the tom. Had she been in his position, she too would be restless.
"Vimala..." Rumpus spoke, before he turned around to face her.
There were many things that probably tipped off her arrival, so she didn't question it and smiled. "Hey..." Walking closer, she sat down on the closest bed to him, and her tail swished back and forth. "So how are you feeling today?"
"Oh just peachy." He rolled his eyes. He'd go insane if he had to be confined in the same four walls for much longer. "Can't you tell?"
She shrugged,"You look like your about to break down the wall and run like hell."
"You pretty much nailed it on the head."
Scooting closer to the edge of the bed, the corner of her lips frowned,"Doesn't she at least let you out to get some fresh air, stretch your legs and all that?"
"You'd think she'd have the decency, wouldn't you? She lets me out when nature calls and when I'm thirsty and her water supply is low." He paused, looking down at Vimala. Leaning down towards her, an idea hit him. "You...You owe me! You've got to get me out of here before I lose it. Will you do this for me?"
"I owe you my life, not a favor." Vimala corrected him. When she saw him push himself back up and run a paw through his hair, she literally felt the waves of frustration flow from him. "Still...I wouldn't want to be cooped up here for so long either. I can distract her, don't know for how long. From what I've learned of Jenny, she guards over her patients like a hawk."
"Doesn't matter. All I need is a small window of opportunity. If you distract her, I can get away. Oh heavyside! Thank you!" He reached down and had pulled her up to her feet to embrace her.
Returning the hug, she pulled away, winking. "Off to distract her, better be ready to dash."
"I am." Rumpus firmly stated, watching Vimala nod her agreement and then head out to seek out Jenny.
There was silence, but then he heard voices, one belonging to Jenny the other Vimala. She was a sweet queen, and he would definitely be praising her for doing this later, though he'd get grief from Jenny, he knew that. He heard something that he couldn't quite make out, but sounded as though Vimala were offering to help Jenny tidy up the Infirmary. Waiting a little bit more, he finally sensed the two walking into one of the other back rooms. That was it, his chance, and he took it by flying out of there as fast as his legs would take him. He didn't stop running until he was clear out of the junkyard and back on the streets. Rumpus hadn't wanted to tempt fate, so once he was back on the streets he slowed down. He could only imagine Jenny getting flustered for him disappearing, and holding Vimala responsible. Making a mental note, he made sure to make amends for any trouble this would cause the white queen. He made his way into an alley with a dead end street in order to catch his breath from his mad dash to freedom. His eyes and ears flicked in the same direction, his mystical powers sensing, by the feel of it, two cats were close by. Crimson eyes looked down the dead end street, and landed on a box. Approaching it, he noticed furry bodies laying tangled together. One eyebrow raised up in amusement, and he poked the black and golden looking tom, least it looked like the tom was black and gold, there was silver mixed up in it, but he was certain that was an arm or leg from the other cat sleeping there. He waved a paw, slapping Rumpus paw away.
"Five more minutes, Don." Jagger groaned.
Rumpus gave a small sigh of relief, too many times he had found badly beaten cats, starved cats, and even dead cats in boxes around the city.
Adonis yawned, hearing Jagger and stretching out, and in turn smacking Jagger in the face, Adonis peaked his eyes open. Seeing Rumpus there, his eyes went wide. Shaking Jagger, he urged his half brother to awaken. Jagger groaned again, shifting his weight, and stretching out.
"Fine, Fine. I'm up, I'm up. No need to hit me." Running a paw through his hair, he opened his eyes, startled by the appearance of Rumpus Cat...there. He recovered quickly, but fell further in the box when Adonis jumped out of the box.
Being half asleep he didn't fully recognize Rumpus until he was on his feet ready to fight what he thought was another hostile alley cat. Relaxing, he gave the tall black and white tom a firm look. Rumpus noticed Jagger finally getting out of the box brushing himself off. As if Jagger was trying to make himself look good...for who, Rumpus didn't even want to imagine.
"Don't take this the wrong way...but what are you doing here? And why did you wake us up?" Adonis fished around, he wanted answers, and needed answers. He knew it was foolish to think Rumpus posed any sort of threat, but living on the streets as long as he and Jagger have, had taught Adonis to act more cautious.
"All too often I find gravely injured or dead cats in such boxes. I was concerned. Just had to check." He raised an eyebrow studying both of them. Something about them was familiar. It took him another second, but it finally came to him. "Oh! You two. I met you before, haven't I? You were the two being mugged by those thugs a little over a month ago."
Adonis blinked. "Er yes. I can't believe you...of all cats would remember us."
"And why not, Don? Have you seen me?" Jagger licked back some of his hair, still grooming and sprucing up. He could flirt with whoever he wanted, age and gender didn't matter. Flirting really didn't mean anything anyway. Jagger gave Rumpus a look, winking as though he approved of Rumpus staring back.
He shook his head, the tom was just too like Tugger. Still, it didn't bother him, not really. "And you two live here?"
Adonis continued to eye Rumpus, but he wasn't as guarded as before. Shrugging, he nodded his head. Rumpus looked around the area grimly. "I didn't know you two were this bad off. No offense," He spoke quickly seeing the stubborn look on Adonis. "Just I think I can help."
~^*^~
The tall white tom carefully walked around the brown Maine coon. Flicking his mostly white tail behind him, Leoben gave Endrance a hard stare. Endrance stood coldly as Leoben stared at him. The two toms were near the dark dungeons. More importantly they were just outside the big room where Charna was with Ilarori, torturing Chaos. Turning his white and grey head towards Endrance, he folded his arms across his chest.
"So how's the silver tom fairing against your woman?"
"Poorly", Endrance spoke, pride in his voice.
The two toms continued to look in on the room, hearing the painful shrieks. Leoben's ears flicked forwards each time he heard another scream. Wrinkling his brows in deep thought, his nose scrunched up. It wasn't the sounds of the torturing and those in pain that caused his sour face. Leoben himself got into the action from time to time. He played more mind games with his victims then sticking to physical pain. Physical pain had its uses and advantages, but messing with their heads had a way of screwing up the individual long term-this was more enjoyable to the tall white tom. Leoben gave off a disgusted face, but he wasn't, he was simply confused. Hearing another scream, one eyebrow went up.
"Oh. Is that him making those noises?"
After giving a nod, Endrance left Leoben and entered into the main room. He had a similar aura of arrogance waltzing into the room that Macavity would give off, if he was going into any room in his warehouse. The brown Maine coon went straight to Charna and Chaos. His yellow eyes did look off a few feet from the two and saw Ilarori sitting down. The white, red splattered short-hair queen was watching but there was a bored expression on her face. She lifted her head when Endrance arrived, rolled her eyes; 'as if she wasn't impressed by the likes of him', and then went back to staring at Chaos and Charna-still bored. Charna's gleeful cackle cut through Endrance's thoughts, bringing him back to the scene of Chaos and Charna. Shivering, Chaos sat on his knees, his two front paws locked in place behind his back. The tom was chained to a steel pole. Endrance had only visited sporadically during the past month to check on Charna and occasionally on her progress. However, from the looks of things, Chaos appeared to be beaten down, and broken. Whether his spirit was broken was another issue. The very issue that Macavity was already on his way down to see to. It was difficult to tell that Chaos was a silver tom, Endrance noticed. There was just too much blood, both dry and fresh, in his fur. Endrance took a moment to admire his mates work. With the back of her paw, she hit Chaos across his face.
"Say it!" Charna commanded, her eyes shimmering with excitement.
With what appeared to be great effort on Chaos part, he glared at Charna. Another hit, and then her claws dug into his side just below his ribs, had him groaning out in pain.
"It's not that hard, now say it. 'Charna, you are so fucking beautiful. Oh and by the way you are the best hostess.' Because...I am the best."
Flinching when he saw her paw rise up, he choked out her name. She slowly dropped her paw, the amusement still flickering in her eyes. Swallowing down hard, Chaos did his best to hide his pain.
"You're an ugly psychotic bitch! Oh and by the way, you'll die a slow horrible death, and I'll be there to make sure you suff-"
There was a very audible thwack, as Chaos' head moved sideways and then lulled down towards his chest. Breathing hard, Charna dropped the hard metal tube she just used to swing at Chaos head. Feeling better, a small smile appeared on her face. Taking a closer look, revealed that Chaos was still conscious. The hit had happened so fast that he didn't even have time to cry out. Chaos did have his mouth open and his eyes were blinking. He was desperately trying to move past the hot white flash of pain. Enthusiastically, Charna raised Chaos' chin back up to her level. The hit probably just bruised his face or cracked his skull, but it had broken some skin. She watched, fascinated, as some of his blood trailed down the side of his face. There was something else she didn't think she'd see; tears, both in his eyes and sliding down his cheeks. They weren't tears from crying, only tears brought on through the painful torture. She knew that, but didn't care-it was close enough. Smearing the tears and his blood together, she heard another pained noise escape his lips. Endrance watched half interested and half because he was assessing Chaos' condition. The tom looked beaten, however that mouth of his. He still had some spirit left in him, though Endrance couldn't help to think it was an act. A way to still appear tough when he no longer felt tough or was no longer strong.
"Endy, baby." Charna cooed, loud enough to capture her mates focus.
Seductively, she brought her fingers dripping with Chaos' blood to her mouth. Her tongue darted out and licked at the base of her index finger to the tip. Her eyes were on Endrance, and he seemed entranced. Of course he was. Reaching out, a little blood that she had missed, still on her paw. Lowering his head, his tongue swiped at the missed blood. He raised back up, an indifferent expression back on his face.
"I see you're having fun."
Charna bounced on the balls of her feet, giggling. "And why not? He is quite entertaining."
"Screw you!" Chaos snapped.
Charna spun around facing him, reading to rip out one of his eyes, or an ear. However, Ilarori stepped in, sighing loudly.
"So sorry to interrupt you two, but all the blood licking was just too much. Gag me." Rori turned her nose upward at them in disgust. "Now I have been sitting here for a long time, and I'm bored. Am I allowed to leave and actually do something? Or am I to be bored to tears for another month?"
"Go, go." Charna practically shoved her out of the room. "As if I want you actually healing him." She bit her lower lip watching Chaos. The silver tom still bore the defiant look, but the rest of his bloodied body shivered.
Ilarori, pissed left, and passed Macavity on her way out. The ginger tom watched her bow to him before stomping away in anger. Entering the room, he took a quick glance of the scene. Inwardly, he smirked at Chaos, as he moved closer to Endrance and Charna.
"Good evening, my lord." Endrance smoothly said. Charna only chuckled under her breath, "saluted" and called Macavity-'Mr. Boss Man'.
Nodding, he skipped the pleasantries, and got to the point. "So? Any progress."
"Some." Charna spoke. "I think he just needs a little push and then he's all yours."
"I assume you have something in mind."
"Endrance." Charna chimed, a devious grin on her face.
"I can't get into his mind, if that is what your thinking."
"Buuuut, you can send emotions and feelings into someone else's mind." Charna licked at her bottom lip, winking at Endrance.
"Good, do it." Macavity sternly spoke to Endrance, moving closer to Chaos.
Taking a moment, Endrance concentrated, feeling the slow build of his power. Closing his eyes, the power flooded him faster. Envisioning what he planned to send to Chaos, he opened his eyes.
"Pain."
Chaos gasped out flinching, his eyes wide as he looked down at his body. A part of him knew what he was seeing and feeling was an illusion, but it was so real. What he saw was the flicker of light, as flames began to consume him. His legs were already on fire, burning through his fur and skin. Throwing his head back, he screamed out in pain. The fire was all around him, he could even smell singed fur, and the scent of burnt flesh. Despite the poor shape his body was in, thanks to Charna, he still jerked against the metal pole he was chained to. He needed to get away, but the more he moved, the more jolts of pain shot through his body.
Kneeling down beside the flinching, screaming tom, Macavity growled in his ear.
"I can stop the pain. With just one word. All you have to do is agree to work for me."
There was a long pause, interspersed with deafening screams, and groans of pain. Chaos weakly nodded his head.
"..Y-yeah...I'll.." Another scream broken by a sob tore through his throat. Feeling the fire burning his chest. "Do it."
Macavity stood back up, seeing Charna mesmerized both by Chaos and by her mate's abilities. Giving the order, Endrance let out a long breath, gripping his head slightly. The power faded and as soon as it did, Chaos fell limp against his chains, passing out once more. With Endrance no longer using his powers, the illusion Chaos was under was gone. Regaining his strength, Endrance gave Macavity a skeptical stare.
"Now he's working for us? I thought you needed something from him. Information...not his service."
Macavity narrowed his eyes at Endrance,"I do not need to explain myself to you. For now he will work directly under me, and will have my protection. Now get him cleaned up and treat his wounds. When he regains consciousness, I want to be notified right away. Do not let him out of your sight. He might now be in my service, but I don't trust him."
Endrance bowed, obeying even if he thought keeping Chaos alive was a mistake. Though, if he had to live, it was better the tom was where they could keep tabs on him, then mingling with other alleys, or worse the jellicles. "As you wish."
~^*^~
"So how's you're sister, Tantomile doing?" Jemima spoke.
There was a pause, before Coricopat shrugged his shoulders,"I believe you have already asked that of me."
"I know, I know." Jemima cracked a smile,"It's just...No one had said anything for a few minutes. Felt the need to fill the gap."
Coricopat paced near the entrance/exit of the west side of the yard. "Sorry." Was his weak response. "I don't know why this is so awkward for me. I mean you and I have talked before."
"Sort of." Jemima supplied, before adding,"Talking to queens just doesn't seem like your cup of tea."
Stealing a glance from Jemima, he admitted that she was telling the truth. Of course he got nervous when he was around queens, but he was a little surprised by her use of a human phrase. "I guess." Why was he nervous around queens though?
"Relax Coricopat. I'm sure we can work passed it. I'll help you open up a little more, if that's what you want."
A second stop in his pacing was all that happened and in another second to think it over, Coricopat nodded his consent. Jemima's smile broadened over how cute Coricopat could be when he was acting this shy.
"So..." Coricopat finally stopped, turning completely towards Jemima,"How's this work?"
"You could always act like I'm one of your guy friends to help this process along."
"How is that suppose to help?"
"You don't act shy and nervous around toms...Do you?"
"Well..."
Jemima nervously chuckled, and knew she shouldn't have, but she couldn't stop herself. "So you're gay."
"Hey! I'm not gay. I don't look at other toms in that way."
Jemima chuckled some more at Coricopat's defensive attitude. She placed a paw over her mouth to stop her laughter. His eyes narrowed, and he felt his power flicker briefly within him. The yard around him almost blurred in a Grey haze before returning to normal. Instantly, his eyes went back to Jemima. Blinking, a surprised expression on his face, didn't change a thing. It was unmistakable, he saw a mystical aura around Jemima. No one but he could see it. It was part of his own power to be able to sense mystical powers that others have; especially if it's manifesting for the first time. There was an odd feeling, one Jemima couldn't place.
Then she said one word,"Liar."
She caught his look out of the corner of her eye, and rushed her next set of words,"I'm really sorry. I have no idea why I said that."
Coricopat shook his head, more excited over the prospect of a new mystic to talk to, to help, and quite possibly to even train. His previous nervousness eased into anxiousness; relatively the same feeling but still this was different. He didn't even care that she was going to know.
"It's alright. I was only telling a half truth. I'm not gay." He fidgeted under her gaze,"I'm what the humans say: Bisexual. I like both queens and toms. Just means double the shyness in my case, I'm afraid."
Jemima slowly walked towards him,"Oh. Well you know I have no problem with that. Gay, Straight, Bi...I was only joking around when I first mentioned it." She chewed on her bottom lip, confused. "But...So wait. Technically, when I called you a liar. I was right? Must have been a lucky guess."
"Or?"
"What else could it be? Like I said I don't even know why I said what I said."
"Did you feel anything unusual before you said it?"
Peering at Coricopat, suspiciously, she debated, but chose to answer honestly. Since Coricopat did her the favor of answering honestly. "I can't put it into words how I felt, but yeah. Unusual is as good a word as any."
Smiling, Coricopat held his paw out to her. After inspecting it, she placed her paw in his. "Odd. You seem less nervous around me, then you did before."
"Jemima." Coricopat started,"Don't start to worry or freak out, but I saw something just a moment ago. It was all around you."
She did frown, and slightly flinched as she looked at her body and then all around herself. "Am I okay now?"
"Oh yes, you're fine. I think you have an abnormal, or as we Jellicles like to say, a 'mystical' gift."
"Me with...with mystical powers? I don't think-Are you sure?"
"Pretty sure. Hey listen. You can always come to a few arranged sessions with me, or Tantomile, or both and find out if you do. If you don't then it was an honest mistake, no harm done right? What do you say?"
"Okay, but I would feel better if it was with the both of you."
"Deal."
--- ---
Sitting alone, the cream colored tom ran a shaky paw through his black and rust colored hair. He heard all the sounds of a bustling junkyard. Almost everyone was up now, moving about, playing, talking, doing something. Still, Gilbert couldn't shake this feeling. He felt a paw on his shoulder, and whipped around hissing. Seffina instantly backed off.
"Don't touch me!"
" 'Ey, sorreh." Seffina spoke gazing uncertainly at him. He was of an off sorts, and there was something about him that she just didn't like. "You're Garfield, right?"
Gilbert rolled his eyes, figures. Out of everyone she introduced herself to, it would figure that his name would be the only one she would mess up. "Not that it matters, but it's Gilbert."
"Right. Are ya ahlright?" Maybe her first impression was to dislike this tom, but he did seem troubled. Least she could do was offer help.
He shook his head no, but was already backing away from her. Seffina wrinkled her nose, something was definitely not right with this tom, she just couldn't think what could be wrong. He reminded her of some of those cats on the streets delirious with fever. "I'm fine, okay? Just...Just leave me alone."
Turning curtly, she walked away from him, just a tad irritated. Perhaps, she could inform one of the protectors, or Old Deuteronomy himself that something was wrong with Gilbert. Seeing Noilly Pratt brushing through some of her fur, her irritation fled and she walked up to her all smiles.
"Noilly! 'Ow are ya?"
Noilly stopped long enough to give her a polite grin, before returning to her grooming. "I am well. And you, how are you doing?"
"Aside from runnin' inta a wretch'd lil tom, peacheh."
Noilly laughed lightly, and Seffina soon joined her. Still with joy on her face, she gestured to the empty spot beside Noilly, and Noilly nodded her head. Seffina sat down beside the Himalayan. It wasn't long before the two queens her commotion near one of the entrances to the yard that they were sitting nearby at. Rumpus cat waltzed through the entrance with two talkative toms who went quiet the moment they arrived.
Adonis smirked and spotted the two queens a few feet away. Lifting an eyebrow and nudging Jagger he winked at them.
Jagger whistled. "Hey Don. Look at those hotties."
Adonis nodded,"I see them Jagger. How many other hot queens live here?"
Rumpus looked behind him pausing to think about it. "Don't know about the hot part, but there are quite a lot of fine queens residing in the junkyard."
Jagger flung an arm over his brother's shoulder,"It's official bro. We're never leaving."
---
Back To Year One
To Year One Fanart
"Hey, I found us this. It'll keep us warm tonight." The silver tom spoke softly.
Blinking sleep glazed eyes up at his half brother, he sniffed the air. Wrinkling his nose, he shook his head,"I don't think so. There's no way I'm letting that piece of trash touch this fur."
Rolling his eyes, the Silver tabby tom groaned out,"Fine Jagger. That's fine, guess you'll just have to sleep under me to keep warm."
Before the tom could chuckle, Jagger snorted,"Not one of your best lines, Adonis."
Adonis did feel slightly irritated with his younger brother, what brother didn't get irritated by their siblings, but he did love the dark Maine coon mix. "Come on then, make some room for me." There was a stifled yawn, and Jagger seeing how tired Adonis was, finally caved and moved over enough for Adonis to slip in beside him.
Moving in, he curled up against Jagger, as much as he could and then covered himself up with the blanket, mindful to keep it from touching his brothers 'perfect' fur. Just when he got comfortable, Jagger had to go and switch positions, kicking him in the side. Blowing out a hot breath of air, Adonis spoke,"What's the problem?"
"Nothing, just...are we safe here?"
"Don't worry Jagger, I'll stay up a few more hours and keep watch. Rest easy."
Jagger began to protest, for Adonis had been up a while now, and looked more tired then Jagger felt, but Adonis cut him off, and Jagger knew better then to get in Adonis way when he was being all protective. Was rather cute, too. "Then I'll say good night."
"Good night." Adonis spoke fondly, before his bright green eyes looked up towards the only way into the street, on the lookout for any unknown cats creeping close to Jagger and himself.
--- ---
Meanwhile, the Jellicle Junkyard was enveloped in silence. All the Jellicles were currently fast asleep in their dens, aside for the two guardians: Munkustrap and Plato, keeping watch and patrolling around the yard. The only other Jellicle up was Old Deuteronomy. Nervously, Deuteronomy walked, or rather paced just outside another cats den. Hesitantly, he raised his paw, seriously considered turning around and leaving, before he finally knocked on the wooden door of the wooden den. Most dens were just openings between pile of junk and made into a livable place, with a blanket of some sort covering the entrance. However, there were a few that were made with wood with a wooden door to boot. A frown tugged at the corners of his lips, and he began to turn away. It was very late, Deuteronomy should have known better then to disturb anyone this late. A straining creak caught his attention, and looking behind his shoulder, he saw Gus, half awake, opening up his door.
It was clear Gus was not fully awake, but Deuteronomy saw the confusion creep onto his friends features. "Leader?" He asked, as though he might be having some sort of dream.
"Yes, I am so sorry to wake you dear friend. I should have waited until morning. I will talk to you then."
Gus tilted his head, hiding a yawn and reached out for Deuteronomy. "No it is quite alright. I don't mind the intrusion. And I am already up, so you might as well come inside."
Deut never took his paw, but he did turn around and walk back towards Gus. As soon as Gus backed up and made room for Deut, the leader entered Gus' den and closed the wooden door behind him. He was offered a place to sit down, and so Deuteronomy did.
"Would you like anything to drink?" Gus asked, his voice still thick with sleep. He walked back towards the back of his den where a few jars half of his size were placed, all of them full of water. With two round shards, that looked like cups to the two Jellicles in paw, he opened the lid. He filled his cup with water, then looked back at Deuteronomy.
"Uh, no it is quite alright. I'll be fine."
Gus shook his head, filling Deuteronomy's cup just in case. Closing the lid, and carefully walking back towards Deuteronomy, Gus sat down across from the Jellicle Leader. He placed Deut's cup down beside him and then sipped from his own. He eyed the leader as he did so, and when he swallowed down and set his cup down in his lap, he asked the question.
"So...Why are you here? Is everything alright?"
Deut took a deep breath, before he shrugged his shoulders,"Yes everything is alright, there's nothing wrong with the tribe...Or," Deut began knowing Gus' next question,"Your kids. Your two children are fine as well."
Gus nodded, keeping his mouth shut. Deuteronomy obviously had something important to say, otherwise he wouldn't have been at his door so late at night. So Gus left it up to Deut, giving the leader as much time as he wanted in order to say what he needed.
"Gus." Deut started, wincing at the uncertainty in his own voice. "I was wondering if that offer still...stood. About-"
"You coming to talk to me anytime?" Seeing Deut nod slightly, Gus understood. "Yes, yes, of course. Didn't know you'd be waking me up this late though." Smirking, he leaned back against the pillow where he sat. "Take as much time as you need, I'll be here and I'll listen."
Deuteronomy did take his time, most likely sorting out when he wanted to say. Gus of course kept taking sips of his drink so he would stay awake. Finally, Deut spoke. "I would have come to you about this at a reasonable hour. However, lately my nights have not been restful. I just couldn't stand another night."
"Oh I am not mad. I admit it was a poor attempt to lighten the mood. When I said anytime, I meant it."
Taking in a deep breath and letting out a long sigh, Deut continued. "Suppose it is high time I talk about what happened that night. I haven't spoken to anyone about this mainly because I didn't want the others to know. To know how scared I had been when Macavity and some of his Hexes dragged me off. Silly notion, huh?"
Shaking his head, Gus resisted the urge to reach out to Deuteronomy. "Not at all. Being afraid at a time like that is only natural. I would be worried about you, if you hadn't been afraid." There was a small smile on Deut's face, and Gus was slightly relieved at seeing it.
"Thank you, my old friend." He licked at his dry lips once, and then continued with his story,"I wasn't with them for very long for them to do any damage. Well any considerable damage. My son, Gus...Endrance, he was there, the one in charge of interrogating me."
"Endrance...? Endrance. Little Endy? But, I thought his mother and him, got cornered by Pollicles on the streets returning to the junkyard from visiting their humans. And were killed."
"Yes. That was what I was told. I suppose it's possible that Macavity had found Endrance before he died, tended to his wounds and ended up raising him." Deut shook his head sadly,"It wasn't the interrogation or the threats that hurt, Gus. It was seeing my boy all grown up, and seeing the hatred in his eyes. He knew. He knew I was his father, and he didn't seem to care."
Gus, that time, did reach out, and placed a comforting paw on top of his leader's paw. "I'm sure, after so many years living with Macavity, the ginger tom could have poisoned his mind. Told him lies about you somehow abandoning his mother and him to the Pollicles. He was young, Old Deuteronomy. It is possible he believed Macavity. Do not blame him for the actions of Macavity."
"I don't, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't still hurt. It does. Whether or not he is misguided. It pained me to look up into his eyes, and see only pain mixed with agony, drowning in a sea of hate. I could do nothing. That hour, Gus, that hour it took for the others to rally behind Mistoffelees to help him locate me and bring me back. That hour was the most helpless I've ever felt. I don't know if I could bare something like that again. Not at my age, not anymore."
"I admit, you have seen more death, pain, and hurt then most of the Jellicles in the tribe now. I understand how it has weighed you down. That brightness, and innocence; the happiness that use to be in your face so many years ago, during your first few years after becoming leader, has seemed to fade with time. However, among all that their is still joy to be had. You're not alone, Deuteronomy, you have the whole tribe that would stand by you." He paused but added after a moment's thought,"And you have me. I'm your friend, and will help you in any way I can. Even if it's only to lend a listening ear, and give out advice that only makes sense half the time."
Deuteronomy's paw turned underneath Gus' and held Gus' paw in his. "Your advice is always appreciated. It helps a lot more then you think it does." Deut stole a glance from Gus. "Gus, may I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"Do you..." He shrugged,"This might be awkward, but do you ever think about us? I mean, what we use to have?"
Gus stared, for quite a while, before swallowing down a lump in his throat. "Honestly? Yes. I hope that doesn't offend you. I understand why we stopped, and all. Though it wasn't...wasn't..."
"Fair. I know. Back then, two toms together, or even having the faintest of feelings towards each other was "wrong". Hopefully, I've guided the tribe enough to be more open minded about such things. Gus, it does not offend me. I do sometimes, think about what would have been, had our relationship been accepted back then."
The two friends smiled at each other. "Shall we just leave it at that then?" Though, before Deuteronomy could respond, Gus with his free paw set down is cup, and grabbed the other one off of the floor. "Care for a drink now?"
Deuteronomy sighed, knowing this is what had to be. Friends. Though, they were good friends, so he knew he shouldn't complain or yearn for more. It was just a fact, they both had no romantic feelings for one another, just a passing interest of a shadow of once was. "A drink would be good about now. Thank you." He accepted the drink, and the two shared in stories, catching up with one another. For they were too awake for either of them to sleep again.
~^*^~
The dawn approached quickly, and the white medium haired queen stepped out of her 'temporary' den. Her brilliantly emerald eyes shone in the morning sunlight, and she was quick to head off towards the Jellicle's Infirmary. It was a private den that all sick and injured cats stayed in. No one really lived there, but the orange and white tabby she had run into when she first arrived: Jennyanydots, did work in the den and on the patients. Stretching, Vimala, turned and walked on down one of the paths, getting closer to the infirmary. As she neared her destination, however, she was stopped. The brown and white tom approached her, and she squinted her eyes, digging up the name he had told her weeks ago, shortly after her arrival to the yard. It hit her and she waved at him.
"Good morning, Tumblebrutus."
"Morning, Vimala. Headed to the infirmary again?"
"You know as well as I do that you already know the answer to that question."
"True, I see you heading there at the same time every day. Though, Rumpus is fine, don't know what you get yourself worried over."
"I don't worry. He saved me from a Pollicle dog. I'm just really grateful. Besides, Jenny's got him locked up in that den, the least I could do is make his stay there a bit more bearable."
Tumble smirked, debated, then added,"I didn't know you were going to be here today. Didn't you say-"
"Yeah yeah, but I'm going to stay just one more day, then I'll be out of here."
Tumble chuckled under his breath," Alright." Of course, she had been saying 'just one more day' since she first got to the yard almost a month ago. He and a few of his friends had already begun placing bets to when she'd finally admit that she was staying. Though one was betting she'd eventually leave. "Well have fun, and say hello to Rumpus for me, would you?"
"Sure." Vimala was smiling at him, and with one final goodbye from the both of them, Vimala continued on her way. The walk to the Infirmary didn't take long. Jenny was already bustling about inside the den, and she even heard an annoyed Rumpus arguing with the healer. Chuckling to herself, Vimala cautiously popped her head into the Infirmary.
"Hello? Anybody home?" Really, she didn't need to ask, but she felt the need to announce her entrance beforehand.
"Come in, come in." Jenny said, ignoring Rumpus' pleads to leave. Jenny had bandages and certain bottles that probably contained certain medicines in her paws. Catching Vimala's eyes she shrugged,"Just cleaning up a bit, and organizing my medicine bottles." She sighed before adding,"Last couple weeks, Rumpus has been getting restless. He either makes a mess of the Medicinal equipment, or changes different medicine's into different labeled bottles to amuse himself. You ever hear of anything more juvenile?"
"I heard that." Rumpus called out from one of the back rooms. "Now let me out of here!"
Jenny dropped the bandages down on a spare bed and gripping one of the bottles in her right paw she shook her head. "No, you're not leaving here, not until you grow some common sense. There's no pill for that, but if there were..." She trailed off, only Vimala saw the silent threat in Jenny's eyes.
"You're worse then a bloody jailer." Rumpus complained.
Vimala bit her lip, when she saw Jenny huff under her breath. "A jailer...? Rumpus, may I remind you that you were dragged in the junkyard unconscious? You suffered a pretty bad concussion and left you in a coma for a week. That sounds serious to me. You take too many risks, I don't want you to be dragged in the junkyard one of these days with damage too extensive for me to heal you. Trust me, this is for your own good."
Silence followed, and Jenny waited a few moments, before picking up the bandages she dropped on the bed.
"May...I go in and see him?" Vimala spoke up finally.
"Oh, sure. If you can tolerate his moodiness, then be my guest." She grinned, before moving out of the way to clean up the Infirmary a bit.
Giving a polite smile, Vimala slipped passed her, and walked into the back room. Scanning the room, she couldn't help but gaze intently at the mess, a mess Rumpus no doubt caused himself. The black and white tom stood near the corner of the room, his fist on the wall. She looked a little more closely, seeing the muscles in his back, that was facing her, were tense. Moody is what Jenny called it, but Vimala supposed she couldn't blame the tom. Had she been in his position, she too would be restless.
"Vimala..." Rumpus spoke, before he turned around to face her.
There were many things that probably tipped off her arrival, so she didn't question it and smiled. "Hey..." Walking closer, she sat down on the closest bed to him, and her tail swished back and forth. "So how are you feeling today?"
"Oh just peachy." He rolled his eyes. He'd go insane if he had to be confined in the same four walls for much longer. "Can't you tell?"
She shrugged,"You look like your about to break down the wall and run like hell."
"You pretty much nailed it on the head."
Scooting closer to the edge of the bed, the corner of her lips frowned,"Doesn't she at least let you out to get some fresh air, stretch your legs and all that?"
"You'd think she'd have the decency, wouldn't you? She lets me out when nature calls and when I'm thirsty and her water supply is low." He paused, looking down at Vimala. Leaning down towards her, an idea hit him. "You...You owe me! You've got to get me out of here before I lose it. Will you do this for me?"
"I owe you my life, not a favor." Vimala corrected him. When she saw him push himself back up and run a paw through his hair, she literally felt the waves of frustration flow from him. "Still...I wouldn't want to be cooped up here for so long either. I can distract her, don't know for how long. From what I've learned of Jenny, she guards over her patients like a hawk."
"Doesn't matter. All I need is a small window of opportunity. If you distract her, I can get away. Oh heavyside! Thank you!" He reached down and had pulled her up to her feet to embrace her.
Returning the hug, she pulled away, winking. "Off to distract her, better be ready to dash."
"I am." Rumpus firmly stated, watching Vimala nod her agreement and then head out to seek out Jenny.
There was silence, but then he heard voices, one belonging to Jenny the other Vimala. She was a sweet queen, and he would definitely be praising her for doing this later, though he'd get grief from Jenny, he knew that. He heard something that he couldn't quite make out, but sounded as though Vimala were offering to help Jenny tidy up the Infirmary. Waiting a little bit more, he finally sensed the two walking into one of the other back rooms. That was it, his chance, and he took it by flying out of there as fast as his legs would take him. He didn't stop running until he was clear out of the junkyard and back on the streets. Rumpus hadn't wanted to tempt fate, so once he was back on the streets he slowed down. He could only imagine Jenny getting flustered for him disappearing, and holding Vimala responsible. Making a mental note, he made sure to make amends for any trouble this would cause the white queen. He made his way into an alley with a dead end street in order to catch his breath from his mad dash to freedom. His eyes and ears flicked in the same direction, his mystical powers sensing, by the feel of it, two cats were close by. Crimson eyes looked down the dead end street, and landed on a box. Approaching it, he noticed furry bodies laying tangled together. One eyebrow raised up in amusement, and he poked the black and golden looking tom, least it looked like the tom was black and gold, there was silver mixed up in it, but he was certain that was an arm or leg from the other cat sleeping there. He waved a paw, slapping Rumpus paw away.
"Five more minutes, Don." Jagger groaned.
Rumpus gave a small sigh of relief, too many times he had found badly beaten cats, starved cats, and even dead cats in boxes around the city.
Adonis yawned, hearing Jagger and stretching out, and in turn smacking Jagger in the face, Adonis peaked his eyes open. Seeing Rumpus there, his eyes went wide. Shaking Jagger, he urged his half brother to awaken. Jagger groaned again, shifting his weight, and stretching out.
"Fine, Fine. I'm up, I'm up. No need to hit me." Running a paw through his hair, he opened his eyes, startled by the appearance of Rumpus Cat...there. He recovered quickly, but fell further in the box when Adonis jumped out of the box.
Being half asleep he didn't fully recognize Rumpus until he was on his feet ready to fight what he thought was another hostile alley cat. Relaxing, he gave the tall black and white tom a firm look. Rumpus noticed Jagger finally getting out of the box brushing himself off. As if Jagger was trying to make himself look good...for who, Rumpus didn't even want to imagine.
"Don't take this the wrong way...but what are you doing here? And why did you wake us up?" Adonis fished around, he wanted answers, and needed answers. He knew it was foolish to think Rumpus posed any sort of threat, but living on the streets as long as he and Jagger have, had taught Adonis to act more cautious.
"All too often I find gravely injured or dead cats in such boxes. I was concerned. Just had to check." He raised an eyebrow studying both of them. Something about them was familiar. It took him another second, but it finally came to him. "Oh! You two. I met you before, haven't I? You were the two being mugged by those thugs a little over a month ago."
Adonis blinked. "Er yes. I can't believe you...of all cats would remember us."
"And why not, Don? Have you seen me?" Jagger licked back some of his hair, still grooming and sprucing up. He could flirt with whoever he wanted, age and gender didn't matter. Flirting really didn't mean anything anyway. Jagger gave Rumpus a look, winking as though he approved of Rumpus staring back.
He shook his head, the tom was just too like Tugger. Still, it didn't bother him, not really. "And you two live here?"
Adonis continued to eye Rumpus, but he wasn't as guarded as before. Shrugging, he nodded his head. Rumpus looked around the area grimly. "I didn't know you two were this bad off. No offense," He spoke quickly seeing the stubborn look on Adonis. "Just I think I can help."
~^*^~
The tall white tom carefully walked around the brown Maine coon. Flicking his mostly white tail behind him, Leoben gave Endrance a hard stare. Endrance stood coldly as Leoben stared at him. The two toms were near the dark dungeons. More importantly they were just outside the big room where Charna was with Ilarori, torturing Chaos. Turning his white and grey head towards Endrance, he folded his arms across his chest.
"So how's the silver tom fairing against your woman?"
"Poorly", Endrance spoke, pride in his voice.
The two toms continued to look in on the room, hearing the painful shrieks. Leoben's ears flicked forwards each time he heard another scream. Wrinkling his brows in deep thought, his nose scrunched up. It wasn't the sounds of the torturing and those in pain that caused his sour face. Leoben himself got into the action from time to time. He played more mind games with his victims then sticking to physical pain. Physical pain had its uses and advantages, but messing with their heads had a way of screwing up the individual long term-this was more enjoyable to the tall white tom. Leoben gave off a disgusted face, but he wasn't, he was simply confused. Hearing another scream, one eyebrow went up.
"Oh. Is that him making those noises?"
After giving a nod, Endrance left Leoben and entered into the main room. He had a similar aura of arrogance waltzing into the room that Macavity would give off, if he was going into any room in his warehouse. The brown Maine coon went straight to Charna and Chaos. His yellow eyes did look off a few feet from the two and saw Ilarori sitting down. The white, red splattered short-hair queen was watching but there was a bored expression on her face. She lifted her head when Endrance arrived, rolled her eyes; 'as if she wasn't impressed by the likes of him', and then went back to staring at Chaos and Charna-still bored. Charna's gleeful cackle cut through Endrance's thoughts, bringing him back to the scene of Chaos and Charna. Shivering, Chaos sat on his knees, his two front paws locked in place behind his back. The tom was chained to a steel pole. Endrance had only visited sporadically during the past month to check on Charna and occasionally on her progress. However, from the looks of things, Chaos appeared to be beaten down, and broken. Whether his spirit was broken was another issue. The very issue that Macavity was already on his way down to see to. It was difficult to tell that Chaos was a silver tom, Endrance noticed. There was just too much blood, both dry and fresh, in his fur. Endrance took a moment to admire his mates work. With the back of her paw, she hit Chaos across his face.
"Say it!" Charna commanded, her eyes shimmering with excitement.
With what appeared to be great effort on Chaos part, he glared at Charna. Another hit, and then her claws dug into his side just below his ribs, had him groaning out in pain.
"It's not that hard, now say it. 'Charna, you are so fucking beautiful. Oh and by the way you are the best hostess.' Because...I am the best."
Flinching when he saw her paw rise up, he choked out her name. She slowly dropped her paw, the amusement still flickering in her eyes. Swallowing down hard, Chaos did his best to hide his pain.
"You're an ugly psychotic bitch! Oh and by the way, you'll die a slow horrible death, and I'll be there to make sure you suff-"
There was a very audible thwack, as Chaos' head moved sideways and then lulled down towards his chest. Breathing hard, Charna dropped the hard metal tube she just used to swing at Chaos head. Feeling better, a small smile appeared on her face. Taking a closer look, revealed that Chaos was still conscious. The hit had happened so fast that he didn't even have time to cry out. Chaos did have his mouth open and his eyes were blinking. He was desperately trying to move past the hot white flash of pain. Enthusiastically, Charna raised Chaos' chin back up to her level. The hit probably just bruised his face or cracked his skull, but it had broken some skin. She watched, fascinated, as some of his blood trailed down the side of his face. There was something else she didn't think she'd see; tears, both in his eyes and sliding down his cheeks. They weren't tears from crying, only tears brought on through the painful torture. She knew that, but didn't care-it was close enough. Smearing the tears and his blood together, she heard another pained noise escape his lips. Endrance watched half interested and half because he was assessing Chaos' condition. The tom looked beaten, however that mouth of his. He still had some spirit left in him, though Endrance couldn't help to think it was an act. A way to still appear tough when he no longer felt tough or was no longer strong.
"Endy, baby." Charna cooed, loud enough to capture her mates focus.
Seductively, she brought her fingers dripping with Chaos' blood to her mouth. Her tongue darted out and licked at the base of her index finger to the tip. Her eyes were on Endrance, and he seemed entranced. Of course he was. Reaching out, a little blood that she had missed, still on her paw. Lowering his head, his tongue swiped at the missed blood. He raised back up, an indifferent expression back on his face.
"I see you're having fun."
Charna bounced on the balls of her feet, giggling. "And why not? He is quite entertaining."
"Screw you!" Chaos snapped.
Charna spun around facing him, reading to rip out one of his eyes, or an ear. However, Ilarori stepped in, sighing loudly.
"So sorry to interrupt you two, but all the blood licking was just too much. Gag me." Rori turned her nose upward at them in disgust. "Now I have been sitting here for a long time, and I'm bored. Am I allowed to leave and actually do something? Or am I to be bored to tears for another month?"
"Go, go." Charna practically shoved her out of the room. "As if I want you actually healing him." She bit her lower lip watching Chaos. The silver tom still bore the defiant look, but the rest of his bloodied body shivered.
Ilarori, pissed left, and passed Macavity on her way out. The ginger tom watched her bow to him before stomping away in anger. Entering the room, he took a quick glance of the scene. Inwardly, he smirked at Chaos, as he moved closer to Endrance and Charna.
"Good evening, my lord." Endrance smoothly said. Charna only chuckled under her breath, "saluted" and called Macavity-'Mr. Boss Man'.
Nodding, he skipped the pleasantries, and got to the point. "So? Any progress."
"Some." Charna spoke. "I think he just needs a little push and then he's all yours."
"I assume you have something in mind."
"Endrance." Charna chimed, a devious grin on her face.
"I can't get into his mind, if that is what your thinking."
"Buuuut, you can send emotions and feelings into someone else's mind." Charna licked at her bottom lip, winking at Endrance.
"Good, do it." Macavity sternly spoke to Endrance, moving closer to Chaos.
Taking a moment, Endrance concentrated, feeling the slow build of his power. Closing his eyes, the power flooded him faster. Envisioning what he planned to send to Chaos, he opened his eyes.
"Pain."
Chaos gasped out flinching, his eyes wide as he looked down at his body. A part of him knew what he was seeing and feeling was an illusion, but it was so real. What he saw was the flicker of light, as flames began to consume him. His legs were already on fire, burning through his fur and skin. Throwing his head back, he screamed out in pain. The fire was all around him, he could even smell singed fur, and the scent of burnt flesh. Despite the poor shape his body was in, thanks to Charna, he still jerked against the metal pole he was chained to. He needed to get away, but the more he moved, the more jolts of pain shot through his body.
Kneeling down beside the flinching, screaming tom, Macavity growled in his ear.
"I can stop the pain. With just one word. All you have to do is agree to work for me."
There was a long pause, interspersed with deafening screams, and groans of pain. Chaos weakly nodded his head.
"..Y-yeah...I'll.." Another scream broken by a sob tore through his throat. Feeling the fire burning his chest. "Do it."
Macavity stood back up, seeing Charna mesmerized both by Chaos and by her mate's abilities. Giving the order, Endrance let out a long breath, gripping his head slightly. The power faded and as soon as it did, Chaos fell limp against his chains, passing out once more. With Endrance no longer using his powers, the illusion Chaos was under was gone. Regaining his strength, Endrance gave Macavity a skeptical stare.
"Now he's working for us? I thought you needed something from him. Information...not his service."
Macavity narrowed his eyes at Endrance,"I do not need to explain myself to you. For now he will work directly under me, and will have my protection. Now get him cleaned up and treat his wounds. When he regains consciousness, I want to be notified right away. Do not let him out of your sight. He might now be in my service, but I don't trust him."
Endrance bowed, obeying even if he thought keeping Chaos alive was a mistake. Though, if he had to live, it was better the tom was where they could keep tabs on him, then mingling with other alleys, or worse the jellicles. "As you wish."
~^*^~
"So how's you're sister, Tantomile doing?" Jemima spoke.
There was a pause, before Coricopat shrugged his shoulders,"I believe you have already asked that of me."
"I know, I know." Jemima cracked a smile,"It's just...No one had said anything for a few minutes. Felt the need to fill the gap."
Coricopat paced near the entrance/exit of the west side of the yard. "Sorry." Was his weak response. "I don't know why this is so awkward for me. I mean you and I have talked before."
"Sort of." Jemima supplied, before adding,"Talking to queens just doesn't seem like your cup of tea."
Stealing a glance from Jemima, he admitted that she was telling the truth. Of course he got nervous when he was around queens, but he was a little surprised by her use of a human phrase. "I guess." Why was he nervous around queens though?
"Relax Coricopat. I'm sure we can work passed it. I'll help you open up a little more, if that's what you want."
A second stop in his pacing was all that happened and in another second to think it over, Coricopat nodded his consent. Jemima's smile broadened over how cute Coricopat could be when he was acting this shy.
"So..." Coricopat finally stopped, turning completely towards Jemima,"How's this work?"
"You could always act like I'm one of your guy friends to help this process along."
"How is that suppose to help?"
"You don't act shy and nervous around toms...Do you?"
"Well..."
Jemima nervously chuckled, and knew she shouldn't have, but she couldn't stop herself. "So you're gay."
"Hey! I'm not gay. I don't look at other toms in that way."
Jemima chuckled some more at Coricopat's defensive attitude. She placed a paw over her mouth to stop her laughter. His eyes narrowed, and he felt his power flicker briefly within him. The yard around him almost blurred in a Grey haze before returning to normal. Instantly, his eyes went back to Jemima. Blinking, a surprised expression on his face, didn't change a thing. It was unmistakable, he saw a mystical aura around Jemima. No one but he could see it. It was part of his own power to be able to sense mystical powers that others have; especially if it's manifesting for the first time. There was an odd feeling, one Jemima couldn't place.
Then she said one word,"Liar."
She caught his look out of the corner of her eye, and rushed her next set of words,"I'm really sorry. I have no idea why I said that."
Coricopat shook his head, more excited over the prospect of a new mystic to talk to, to help, and quite possibly to even train. His previous nervousness eased into anxiousness; relatively the same feeling but still this was different. He didn't even care that she was going to know.
"It's alright. I was only telling a half truth. I'm not gay." He fidgeted under her gaze,"I'm what the humans say: Bisexual. I like both queens and toms. Just means double the shyness in my case, I'm afraid."
Jemima slowly walked towards him,"Oh. Well you know I have no problem with that. Gay, Straight, Bi...I was only joking around when I first mentioned it." She chewed on her bottom lip, confused. "But...So wait. Technically, when I called you a liar. I was right? Must have been a lucky guess."
"Or?"
"What else could it be? Like I said I don't even know why I said what I said."
"Did you feel anything unusual before you said it?"
Peering at Coricopat, suspiciously, she debated, but chose to answer honestly. Since Coricopat did her the favor of answering honestly. "I can't put it into words how I felt, but yeah. Unusual is as good a word as any."
Smiling, Coricopat held his paw out to her. After inspecting it, she placed her paw in his. "Odd. You seem less nervous around me, then you did before."
"Jemima." Coricopat started,"Don't start to worry or freak out, but I saw something just a moment ago. It was all around you."
She did frown, and slightly flinched as she looked at her body and then all around herself. "Am I okay now?"
"Oh yes, you're fine. I think you have an abnormal, or as we Jellicles like to say, a 'mystical' gift."
"Me with...with mystical powers? I don't think-Are you sure?"
"Pretty sure. Hey listen. You can always come to a few arranged sessions with me, or Tantomile, or both and find out if you do. If you don't then it was an honest mistake, no harm done right? What do you say?"
"Okay, but I would feel better if it was with the both of you."
"Deal."
--- ---
Sitting alone, the cream colored tom ran a shaky paw through his black and rust colored hair. He heard all the sounds of a bustling junkyard. Almost everyone was up now, moving about, playing, talking, doing something. Still, Gilbert couldn't shake this feeling. He felt a paw on his shoulder, and whipped around hissing. Seffina instantly backed off.
"Don't touch me!"
" 'Ey, sorreh." Seffina spoke gazing uncertainly at him. He was of an off sorts, and there was something about him that she just didn't like. "You're Garfield, right?"
Gilbert rolled his eyes, figures. Out of everyone she introduced herself to, it would figure that his name would be the only one she would mess up. "Not that it matters, but it's Gilbert."
"Right. Are ya ahlright?" Maybe her first impression was to dislike this tom, but he did seem troubled. Least she could do was offer help.
He shook his head no, but was already backing away from her. Seffina wrinkled her nose, something was definitely not right with this tom, she just couldn't think what could be wrong. He reminded her of some of those cats on the streets delirious with fever. "I'm fine, okay? Just...Just leave me alone."
Turning curtly, she walked away from him, just a tad irritated. Perhaps, she could inform one of the protectors, or Old Deuteronomy himself that something was wrong with Gilbert. Seeing Noilly Pratt brushing through some of her fur, her irritation fled and she walked up to her all smiles.
"Noilly! 'Ow are ya?"
Noilly stopped long enough to give her a polite grin, before returning to her grooming. "I am well. And you, how are you doing?"
"Aside from runnin' inta a wretch'd lil tom, peacheh."
Noilly laughed lightly, and Seffina soon joined her. Still with joy on her face, she gestured to the empty spot beside Noilly, and Noilly nodded her head. Seffina sat down beside the Himalayan. It wasn't long before the two queens her commotion near one of the entrances to the yard that they were sitting nearby at. Rumpus cat waltzed through the entrance with two talkative toms who went quiet the moment they arrived.
Adonis smirked and spotted the two queens a few feet away. Lifting an eyebrow and nudging Jagger he winked at them.
Jagger whistled. "Hey Don. Look at those hotties."
Adonis nodded,"I see them Jagger. How many other hot queens live here?"
Rumpus looked behind him pausing to think about it. "Don't know about the hot part, but there are quite a lot of fine queens residing in the junkyard."
Jagger flung an arm over his brother's shoulder,"It's official bro. We're never leaving."
---
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