Guilty or Innocent- Closed

[Gabe619]

"No further use for them? Oddly I would say I would have even more use of them if I am am to vanish from the League's radar completely ... however ..." He leaned forward over the small wooden table between them, his drink in one hand that he had ordered upon entering the bar he gazed into Chloe's beautiful eyes. "Do you know a woman by the name of Maria Jellico? She would be ... 47 now I believe, working in the Rome office of the League."

His eyes flashed at what he was doing but if he was going to give up Maria then he would make sure Chloe knew the full story before she acted on his information.

"I have known Maria for three years now. We met in November not far from her home at a cemetery where she had buried her husband and two small boys. The boys we nine and eleven when they died." His tone was low, conversational, but still firm and focused as his eyes stayed on Chloe's. "They had been killed by a rogue vampire who had been the cause of many deaths in the area. The police of course had him pegged as a serial killer but were no where close to finding him. I had been tracking him for months and was getting close though when League Hunters entered the scene. They had offered Maria a position in their organisation and in her anger and grief at what had happened to her family she had agreed. Two months later the Hunters had failed and despite Maria's pleading had shelved the investigation as a new uprising of werewolf activity had been reported elsewhere. Left to dwell on her grief she decided to hunt the vampire alone, with no training. A week later I saved her life as he was about to eviscerate her. She watched him die before her eyes, slowly and painfully and once it was over and I had taken her to a nearby hospital to tend to her wounds I left assuming we would never meet again. She somehow found a phone number for me, called me, offered me her aid whenever I needed it. She said it was the least she could do as payment for her life and for laying the ghosts of her family to rest."

Nathan shrugged. "She is a good woman, Chloe, she meant you no harm because she knew I meant you no harm. The information she gave me about you was harmless and she aids no other predator on the Leagues list. You now have everything you need to take her out, to remove this threat to you and the League ... but I would beg you to leave the woman alone. She has been through enough don't you think?"

 

[Perplexia]

The story he told her, was a story she had heard a million times. People who had been victimized by his kind, being embraced in the arms of the league. Using their fear, pain and hatred to fuel their fires of undying loyalty. The younger they were, the more raw unbridled anger they had, and the more susceptible they were to the training that made a hunter what they were. The younger they were, the less they questioned. Well that was suppose to be the case. Obviously if it had worked with her she wouldn't be here now.

As she listened to Raynes it was as if she were listening to that girl plead for the life of her vampire lover once again. Such compassion, such loyalty. What was suppose to be sworn enemies, Humans and Vampires. According to the league vampires weren't suppose to have the ability to love, or have compassion, or love humans. We were to them, as a cow was to a farmer. Yet there were stories of people who simply kept their animals as pets. Never having the heart to eliminate their lives for food.

"I want you to reach out to her. Let her know I know, but will not be turning her in. But instead we may be reaching out to her to supply us with resources. League quality id's and such. Also I need to know how she found out where I was. I went dark in Boston and dropped my tracker. I also need to know who else knows I'm here."

It took her a moment to realize how cold that must of came across. "The League recruits those that are victims in one fashion or another of the supernatural. It's one way to help contain your existence, as well as have those dedicated and specially trained to eliminate. The younger the better." she gave a half smile and took a sip of the tequila sunrise she had ordered.

There was something calming about looking Nathan in his eyes. There was a light there that seemed to be fueled by constant waves of thought. He had mentioned the stories he could tell. She found herself wanting to sit with him for hours and hear them. This was dangerous. He was dangerous. She should not feel this relaxed around him. She had watched the way he moved, the way he anticipated, letting her guard down was not a good idea.

"It's late Mr. Raynes, and i'm a bit jet lagged. We should pick this up tomorrow. Perhaps you can have a message left at the front desk of when and where would be a good time. Also if you can find a good location to have the other clan meet up for their ambush. We can start with the preparations for you and your family."

 

[Gabe619]

"I'll contact her and get the information you desire, Chloe. Thank you for not wanting to take action against her." His tone was sincere and she could see it in his eyes, almost a relief that she wouldn't be going after Maria.

He drained his drink and replaced it on the table, the bar was now empty at this late hour, the barman watching them, probably hoping to close up soon. Nathan turned his attention back to Chloe, again he couldn't stop his eyes travelling over her body. She was like a drug he needed but was, so far, out of bounds. He felt his entire body warming at the thought of what he wanted to do to her, but he had never forced himself on a woman despite several ... rough, make out sessions both he and his partner had enjoyed. He reached over and let his fingertips stroke her bare forearm.

"It is late ... but for a vampire the night is still young ... I could escort you up to your room, make sure it's safe?" He suggested hopefully knowing full well that if anything awaited Chloe in her room then it was already as good as dead.

She didn't need his protection, but it was fun to play this game, to see her response. Was she as interested in him as he was in her? He had thought he caught a few looks, a tone in her voice maybe? he had grown good at reading women over the centuries and he knew when they wanted him, but Chloe was an enigma right now, he couldn't tell what was real and what was an act and that only made her more enticing to him.

 

[Perplexia]

She gave a smirk as he suggested walking here to her room for protection "Although I appreciate the chivalry, I'm quite sure that it's not necessary." she said lightly as her face flushed. This was new for her, she never found herself wanting to say yes so bad in her life. "however, perhaps one day" she added wondering where it came from.

It was obvious to her that he too felt that spark, but she wasn't sure it was a good idea. She just met him, he was a vampire, and she had only her gut to go off that she could trust him. It was possible that her hormones were causing a rift in her judgement and she had to be sure before she allowed herself to be in such a vulnerable position. Especially doing something she had no experience in.

Rising she walked to him and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Just the mere touch of his flesh to her lips was causing havoc. A cold shower was definitely in her remote future. She pulled away from him reluctantly as his scent flooded her nostrils. He was a rarity indeed. But time would indicate whether it was anything more then a moments perplexity.

 

[Gabe619]

Realising it would be foolish to push the matter even though he wanted nothing more than to take this enticing woman to bed and show her such pleasures that his three centuries of love making had gifted him with, Nathan instead took her hand as she pulled away, her kiss lingering on his cheek still. He looked up into her eyes before leaning forward and kissing her hand softly before reluctantly releasing it.

"Good night, Chloe ... sleep well." He said in a warm almost husky voice, his emotions running close to the surface.

After she had left he sat a while in the darkness as the barman had shut off most of the lights, a not very subtle way to state he was closing up. Raynes tried to regain his calm. Being around the human woman made him feel ... young again. So strange that no one and nothing had had this affect on him that he could recall. Standing he straightened his jacket and walked to reception. He quickly wrote a note to Chloe stating he would send a care for her at 10.30am that would bring her to his home. Having given it to the receptionist who promised to make sure it found it's way to the woman in question he left the building and found his car and chauffeur waiting. He smiled at his peoples skill and loyalty. He knew the mess they had left in the alley was already cleaned away and he knew he had not been out of sight of his bodyguards all evening and yet, he had to admit, he hadn't noticed them. As he sat in the back of the car a cold shiver ran through him or sudden fear. He had never dropped his defences so badly in centuries he realised. He should of known his people were there, felt their presence, but in Chloe's presence he had been lost somehow. A weakness, but yet one he couldn't help ignoring because he wanted more of this woman. He wanted to be with her.

Home at last he walked in and made his way to his room. Inside he found one of his female familiars waiting, his favourite, who looked at him from the bed half unclothed, alluring, and yet as he looked at her he found no arousal. All he could see was Chloe. With a brusk gesture he ejected the surprised woman from his room and slipped his clothes off. Naked now he moved through a few loosening exercises to relax himself and noticed with an amused smile his cock had become hard just from thinking of the female hunter. Sighing he made his way to the bathroom. Even for vampires a cold shower sometimes did the trick. Beside he needed some rest even if it was early for him to sleep. He knew tomorrow would be a busy day, for the both of them.

 

[Perplexia]

How she was able to walk away without kissing his lips she didn't know. Her mind and body were flooded with conflicting thoughts, emotions, and hormones. Reaching the elevator was like reaching the top of a mountain. It seemingly drained her of whatever energy she had. Once at her room she entered and looked around. The energy she though she lost flooded her with a rage. Stripping out of her dress she put on her workout clothes and headed to the gym.

The problem with gym equipment is it wasn't meant for fighters. What she really needed was to kick the hell out of something. But instead a run on the elliptical machine would have to do. Once she was drenched in sweat and thought she would collapse she finally stepped off and went back to her room. The light on her phone was flashing. There was a message from the front desk that a hand delivered message awaited her.

Looking at the menu for room service she placed an order for some comfort food and had them fetch the message for her. A shower later she was wrapped in her comfy plush robe and retrieving her food and message from the attendant. Sitting there nibbling on her food she read over his message. Her finger traced his letters. The fashion of them gave an impression of his age. She wondered about Nathans liife before he was turned. Evidently he was educated. He had a firm grasp on leadership, and despite the leagues stand on vampires not having souls. From everything Nathan had exhibited, he seemingly had one with a sense of morality.

Morning arrived before she was ready for it and her wake up call almost resulted in the phone through the window. Reluctantly she got out of bed and put on her black leather pants with her tight black tank top. She pulled her hair back into a ponytail and put on her knee high black boots with a 4 inch silver heel. Walking into his home fully armed wasn't a bright idea. So she placed a dagger on her belt in the open, putting a few items in a bag. With her black jacket over her shoulder, she grabbed a large cup of coffee and headed out to meet her limo.

 

[Gabe619]

Raynes waited inside the front door of his mansion as he watched the limo approach up the driveway, the gravel crunching under its tyres before stopping in front of the steps leading up to where he stood. The chauffeur quickly walked around and opened the door for Chloe to step out. Nathan again felt his body begin to warm up simply from watching her step out of the car. She was dressed more severely than last night, which he had expected, and his lip curled into a smile at the sight of the sunlight glinting from the silver heels of her boots. The skin tight pants and top hid nothing of her body and he felt again that sudden impulse to just take her, but again he fought it down. He opened the door himself for her, stepping out of the beam of sunlight that came through, the glass in the door tinted as were the mansions windows to prevent UV rays, but once she was inside he closed the door as his bodyguard approached her.

"Your weapons please." He asked politely, but with an undertone of strength.

"That won't be necessary, the lady can keep her toys. I am sure we are quite safe." Nathan stated coming up beside Chloe and taking her hand, bowing over it and kissing it as he had last night before looking up into her face with a smile. "It's a pleasure to welcome you to my home, Ms. Heart."

The hall of the mansion was in white marble, solid marble floors, columns, staircase and walls. Her heels clicked on the hard surface and it would have looked cold if not for the use of fine paintings and tapestries hanging in exactly the right places to break up the whiteness. Nathan had decided to wear work wear himself today and was in tight jeans, black boots and a button up denim shirt. Decidedly different to his usual smart clothing. Slipping an arm around Chloe's waist he turned her toward two large wooden double doors and led her into his study closing the doors behind them and leaving them alone.

"Our little dust up with those thugs last night has brought a message from their family head, as I hoped it would. She wishes a meeting to discuss the, as she put it, misunderstanding." Nathan smiled, the tips of his canines flashing in the light. "I think to be honest she is more confused than angry. She desires to know why I would help you, protect you in a fight against her people. She probably sees this as a weakness in me to exploit." He shrugged and walked to a table that had been laid out with breakfast, coffee, juice, pastries, eggs and bacon. He poured a cup of coffee and and sat in an arm chair watching his guest. "This would not be the first time she was wrong, but it most certainly could be the last. Would you care for breakfast, coffee maybe?"

 

[Perplexia]

Chloe rarely ventured out during the daytime hours. She had been reared as a night person, and since most of her work took place then she never saw a reason to alter her habit. The scenery of London however, was beautiful. She particularly enjoyed seeing some of the architecture of times closer to Nathans era.

As they stopped in front of Nathans Mansion she smirked to herself. It was an older style, and had it's own character as many of them did. Carefully adjusting her weight on the gravel she walked gracefully inside. She raised an eyebrow as the body guard requested her weapons. Nathan stepped in before she could tell the oaf she was the weapon.

Seeing him she smiled warmly. His lips brushing against her hand once more sent a jolt through her body. Another workout was in her future. She determined having the same frustrations blossoming within her as they did last night. "Well then." she aid clearing her throat as they entered where food was laid out. "Yes coffee please" she said almost dramatically. "I will need an hour or so before I can eat, but coffee is a requirement of my mental calibers" she said in a slight joking manner.
"Well it's good she wants a meeting, the question is how do we get her entire family to attend for the ambush? That is if this is still the family you wish to use as yours for the hunter squad. Also we will need to ensure that everyone is scattered, with time they can slowly migrate back together when you find a new territory. The league will monitor for reports of new clans moving in. Just to ensure they can close the book. By any chance is she as old as you? I was thinking last night that if they doubt they may try to timedate the ashes. It's rarely done because it's not always accurate. But if they want me out, they'll look for anything."

 

[Gabe619]

"Time date the ash's? I wasn't aware the League had that level of technology." Nathan stated with mild surprise as he poured Chloe a cup of coffee. "Cream? Sugar?"

He fixed the drink as she requested and past it over to her before taking a seat and crossing his legs, watching her closely with a smile.

"My family has already started to 'scatter'. They have had emergency protocols to follow for a long, long time. You are, after all, not the only Hunter we have to be prepared for. The have the finances to spread out across the globe and we will come back together a few years from now. I hope they survive, but it's their best bet considering the League now wants me and mine all dead."

Raynes picked up the tablet next to him and tapped at it before handing it over to Chloe. It showed an ariel view of a house in amongst some tree's on the outskirts of London. Outside were several motorbikes and cars and it was obviously taken during the night, but with high tech night vision equipment. An address had been attached on screen to the photo.

"That's their lair. I doubt she would be foolish enough to bring her entire clan with her to this meeting, but if you wanted to give the hunter's coming along behind you a target to hit then that is it. We ourselves can probably deal with Constance Gregory and her closest advisers." His smile grew a little as he cocked his head. "You did ask for a more inspiring fight I remember? This should be perfect. As to her age? Well, a gentleman never asks such a question of a lady ... however I happen to know she is around 250 years old. I am hoping the odd 50 years will not show in your ash carbon dating?"

 

[Perplexia]

Letting out a light laugh with a smile."I did indeed. Though the age rarely dictates their ability to fight. In my experience women vampires around that age have used other skills to retain their power. They were raised in a time where it was unladylike to use violence. Instead they perfected the art of manipulation and seduction to get their way. Also they were quite good at revenge. But I think that her age will be sufficient enough to weight in the favor of our deception." she said taking a long drink of the coffee.

"Wow, now this is what I call coffee." she closed her eyes for a moment and allowed her taste buts to revel. "This is freshly ground, possibly from Italy?" she questioned opening her eyes and smiling to him.

"Expensive tastes Mr. Raynes" she said with a smile. "Have you had the opportunity to speak with Maria? Do you have everything you need for your relocation? Let me know when you'd like to set the meeting and i'll correlate the hit. For the sake of extra paranoia on the Leagues end, I would ensure that those that haven't left randomly use record-able transpiration sporadically. An increase in passengers in flights and such may raise a flag. Also a rapid decrease may cause rats of your kind to start noticing certain members weren't around anymore. In which case we should probably get this scheduled as soon as possible."

 

[Gabe619]

"Don't worry, Ms. Heart ... we know how to vanish without trace." Nathan said with a sad smile. "It is, unfortunately, a skill most vampires have to learn early or their life expectancy is rather short. With my money I can make sure my family and friends are safe and sound."

He refilled her cup without asking then sat back in his chair watching her.

"It is from Italy actually, I have it specially imported for me. I find that although money can't buy you happiness, it can make living with sadness more comfortable." He smiled, the sadness of earlier having vanished. "I would like the meeting to go down tomorrow night. There is a full moon which although irrelevant to a vampire seeing in the dark should help you I hope. Constance is quite eager so I shouldn't imagine the timing will be an issue at all. If you can synchronise the League Hunters hitting her lair at the same time me and you take out her group at the meeting then we should be able to clear the field rather effectively and sow discord and confusion in any of her family who survive. There is an old chalk quarry not far from here. It's abandoned now, but should suit our needs. It only has one way in by land, a single road, which should be easy enough to block so none of her people escape. There are a few buildings still remaining, the quarry foreman's hut, a large building I believe was used for eating in and a few random sheds and such. Many places for you to hide if you so need."

He settled back further in his chair, one eyebrow raised slightly as if curious.

"I expect you had sniper training at the League? Those annoying silver bullets of yours would be quite useful at range while I keep Constance busy. You can pick off any stragglers from the quarry rim or from the roof of a building perhaps?"

 

[Perplexia]

She smiled as he talked of happiness and sadness and the short life of vampires. "Tomorrow night is fine, though oddly I wish we had more time to get to know each other. You're an interesting man Mr. Raynes. I'm sure you could fill me with stories of all kinds of places. I think after your 'death', I may take a vacation, perhaps Italy to start."

Chloe wanted to slap herself, what was she doing? setting up a future date to meet up with him. That could be dangerous. At the same time she was in need of a break. She had more then a years worth of time saved up. Why not get to know him better. He was an interesting person. He could even potentially teach her more about his kind which could benefit her hunting in the future.

"Yes i am a good sniper, but I do prefer the crossbow with silver arrows. It's silent, and quick to break down. It also doesn't give off a flash of light in the dark, which could draw attention. I will scout the area tonight, if you care to join me we can get a clearer plan of attack. Will you be bringing anyone with you to the meet?"

Taking a sip of her refilled cup of coffee she let her eyes take in the room they were in. It seemed a shame that he would have to just leave his mansion and the life he built because of what he was. The live she had taken over the years had been mostly those who were caught in the act, or were definitely guilty. But what if she had been wrong? What if she had killed someone that was innocent before her eyes had been opened?. She couldn't think about that now. She had a set up to help plan to save one mans life and destroy a tribe of others.

 

[Gabe619]

Nathan smiled happily at her suggestions, although his mind turned quite dirty at her mention of him filling her in ... not usually a crass person, he realised his desire to do something very similar to filling her in was urging through him right now. He moved a little in his chair hoping his sudden distraction wouldn't show.

"Italy is beautiful this time of year ... perhaps, if you are interested, we could holiday together? I know the country quite well, I could be your guide ... I promise you won't be bored." He winked, loving the flirting. "Maybe a little time on the beach for you? Do you like sunbathing, or is that a little boring for such an adventurous woman as you? Moonlit walks on the sand perhaps would be better, no?"

His smile was almost radiant as his eyes flashed, imagining all they could do together, both leisure wise and professionally.

"As to what you do at the meeting I will leave that to you. I am sure you know best how to use your skills. I will set the ground rules with Constance at three people each, me and two bodyguards, the same for her ... although I have no doubt she will break that agreement and try to ambush me. Honour isn't a by word in her life I understand. As you mentioned her upbringing was more one of deceit, subterfuge and seduction over action and adventure and she uses those skills well. I will set the meeting for midnight, giving darkness time to fall and allowing both sides to arrive early."

 

[Perplexia]

"If they could wear something that would help me identify them as yours that would be beneficial. I don't want to accidentally kill them." She was pleased to hear her assessment of Constance was correct, and that he was bringing a couple of men with him. If she had walked in with him, things would turn south in a hurry.

"I'm more of a night person." she responded to his sunbathing question. "An occupational hazard. However, if you happen to be there and I happen to be there at the same time it will be a happy coincidence I'm sure you would make quite a guide with your knowledge of the place and all."

She was quite certain there were other areas he could teach her in as well. But she couldn't think about that right now. There was that frustration building up in her again. She needed to rid herself of it. "Do you by any chance have a proper exercise room with boxing bags?"

 

[Gabe619]

He raised and eyebrow at her request, then smiled and put down his cup. "Indeed I do, if you would like to follow me, Ms. Heart?"

He stood and led her through the house to a rear facing room. It had long floor to ceiling windows looking out over a well manicured lawn and beyond bright colourful gardens all fenced in by trees. The windows again had that odd slight tint to them filtering out the UV while allowing most of the light to enter. The room wasn't huge, but it was well equipped with a running machine, rowing machine, punchbag, mats and a pull up bar. Nathan stepped to one side to allow his guest to enter.

"Here we are. Please make use of any of the equipment you wish. The shower room is through that door there if you require, you will find fresh towels are laid out. And of perhaps you would prefer a swim I have a small outdoor pool and an inside one too. You'll find the inner pool through the shower room and out the other side next to the sauna and the outdoor pool through those double doors leading to the garden and turn left. Will you be requiring a change of clothes? I believe we may have something in your size. I keep some ladies clothing around for ... guests."

He smiled gently. he could hardly tell her that sometimes the clothing his female guests arrived in got a little tattered during the love making so he had got into the habit of keeping spare clothing around just in case. But then he considered, a lady of Chloe's lifestyle might actually prefer a more rough and tumble way of sex. His eyes drifted over her again as such thoughts derailed more everyday considerations.

 

[Perplexia]

"I appreciate your generosity." She looked down at her outfit. "I suppose these pants aren't really work out pants. If you have some sweats or shorts that would work out well." she looked around at the equipment, then to Raynes.

"I must seem a bit odd to you. I am not good at communicating with people Mr. Raynes. I don't interact with them much, I don't date or find myself in this particular madness around anyone. When I'm around you, I feel this tension that rises in me from my stomach, and it makes me want to kick and beat the hell out of things. Working out is my go to, for clearing my head"

She wondered if any of her babble made sense as a light blush overtook her cheeks. Chole hoped that her choppy speech made some sort of sense. That look he gave her made her want to melt, the touch of his lips to her hand intensified it a thousand fold, and his voice. That silky sexy voice made her only want to be closer to him. He was dangerous, yet she wanted to embrace it.

 

[Gabe619]

"When you're around be you feel so tense you want to kick and beat the hell out of things?" Nathan asked with a short light peel of laughter. He noticed the slight flush on her cheeks and nodded in understanding as he stepped closer to her. He reached out slowly so she would have time to stop him or move, but then his fingers tips touched her cheek, brushing aside a loose hair on her forehead, stroking the side of her face all the while his eyes focused on hers. "Believe me when I tell you, Ms. Heart ... you have the same effect on me."

His voice had dropped to a low husky cadence, his touch of her skin sending electric through him. In all his years no woman had made him feel this way and they had only just met. He didn't really even know her other what he had read of her and the short time in her company. And yet it didn't matter he realised. Love at first sight was a myth, in his three hundred years he had figured that out at least, and what he was feeling might not even be love. How did you quantify such an emotion. Was it simply a physical reaction to touch, smell, taste, visual stimulus, or was it more, was it the touching of two souls ... and did vampires even still possess souls? That had been a debate raging amongst the undead for centuries without end. Suddenly he pulled his hand away and stepped back. He couldn't do this - they couldn't do this, not here, not now. He had to think of his family first. Once they were safe then, and only then, could he consider the pleasure of spending time with Chloe.

"I ... will leave you to your exercises then, Ms. Heart. When you are done please tell my assistant who will be waiting outside the door and she will bring you to me and we can start detailed plans for tomorrow night. If you need anything, anything at all, please just ask." He bowed slightly, his hands clasped together before his chest. "Until later mia signora."

He turned and walked out, spinning to close the double doors of the exercise room behind him.

 

[Perplexia]

His movement was slow enough that it didn't raise any red flags to cause her to react. The touch of his fingers against her flesh caused such a reaction with in her she thought she would swoon and melt into him. When he suddenly pulled back it was if she'd been stabbed with a pain. Yet her eyes stayed with his, he hadn't said it, but she felt that she understood. Now wasn't the time for them to try to figure out their reactions. They couldn't be distracted, they couldn't make errors or it could cost them both. No it would have to wait. If and when they crossed paths in italy then they would have the opportunity to figure out this irrational response.

His gritty voice didn't help with her frustration. She merely nodded and watched him leave. She gasped at the air as if once again he had stolen her breath from her body. In the bathroom there were some clothes laid out for her. She picked a pair of shorts and a modest 1 piece suit for swimming later.

The bag took a hell of a beating as she kicked and punched it with a new fire that burned in her core. The rowing machine was a pleasent workout as well. Taking a quick shower she changed into the bathing suit and took advantage of the outdoor pool until her arms were jelly. Then to the sauna, a few hours later she emerged freshly showered and back in her out fit ready to be taken once again into Nathans company.

 

[Gabe619]

Samantha Saunders waited patiently outside the exercise room door, dressed smartly in light grey business suit, her long dark hair hanging loose down her back, her pretty features calm and friendly as Chloe left the room.

"Ms. Heart? This way please." Saunders indicated and led Chloe through the house to a back room.

The room had a key pad security lock and a hand scanner which she quickly and efficiently used to unlock the heavy wood and metal door. As it swung open she smiled at Chloe and gestured for her to enter. Once the guest was inside, Samantha closed the door and took up position outside in case Nathan required her again. The room itself resembled the American Presidents situation room. Computers ran down both walls with operators at each one, at the far end a large monitor covered the wall currently showing a map of the earth with red flashing dots. A long conference table stood in the middle of the room with eight chairs around it. There were no windows in the walls, the only light source was from the computer monitors and a long light above the table. Nathan sat at the head of it, head resting on one hand, his index finger rubbing his lip thoughtfully as he studied the map on the wall monitor. He glanced around as the door open and then stood with a smile.

"Feeling better, Ms. Heart? Welcome to my inner sanctum."

 

[Perplexia]

When she entered the room her eyes surveyed it. It was just habit to look for a quick exit, things that could be used as weapons, and things she needed to ensure not to damage. The set up he had was intricate. The league really had no idea how technically advanced some vampires were.

"I do thank you" she replied lightly avoiding eye contact. She was a bit embarrassed at her earlier confession. Although he seemed to reciprocate the attraction he had walked away. Even though she knew the reason, it didn't stop it from stinging a little.

Taking a seat at the opposite end of the table and wiggling a bit trying to get comfortable until she found a good position. "Once we're done going over the plan, i'd like to return to my hotel so i may sleep. I will go out tonight and scout it out, and return tomorrow before the sun sets."

She had to be void of anything but the point at hand. Straight to the point, no need to chit chat, or to look in those eyes and get all foolish. There was a job to do, simple as that. Stage his death and ensure his disappearance. "Have you had the opportunity to speak to Maria?"

 

[Gabe619]

"Yes, actually while you were ... exercising." He flashed her a smile. "She has arranged visa's for me and my people to our countries of choice. And I explained to her about our arrangement. She seemed resigned to her being a double agent being discovered at some point, but I would ask you to please let her be ... as a personal favour to me?"

He reached for a remote control sitting on the table next to him and aimed it at the big screen before him. Pushing a button a series of photos of peoples faces began to pop up. In total there were around twenty, but the main one was of a woman who seemed to be in her early 30's. The name attached to the picture was Constance Gregory. She had flowing blonde hair, dark blue eyes, elegant features and a quirky smile.

"These are the people who hold places of power in Constance's family, or clan as she calls it. Most of her people are soldiers rather than accountants or specialists. Rabidly loyal to her and willing to die. Constance herself looks and acts as if she is the lady of the manor, but don't let appearances deceive. Yes she is trained in charm, subterfuge and manipulation but she can also fight. Many an opponent has fallen by underestimating her." He turned in his chair to look down the table at Chloe. "It would pain me to see you fall to her abilities, Ms. Heart, so take care out there."

Holding her gaze locked for a moment longer, he turned back to the screen. "My men will be dressed in black suits and appear to be standard bodyguard protection. She will think I am over confident in my power base. She will try to trick me, ambush me, her playbook is well known. She will not be expecting you and that gives us the edge. As far as I know your location in the city is unknown by Ms. Gregory so you will be safe at your hotel, but I'll place some guards in plain clothes anyway, for my own peace of mind, and ..." He didn't look at her this time, just raised a hand slightly to cut off any argument. "Please do not even bother denying me this small measure of security."

He stood, placing the remote back on the table, the face pictures remaining in the large screen as he walked up to Chloe and held out his hand, taking hers and helping her stand. he kept a hold of her hand though as he stood so close he could feel her body heat, their eyes inches apart.

"I think it would be best for us not to meet again until tomorrow night at the appointed hour. We can't risk her seeing you in my presence. Do what you must, Chloe, but be sure I am placing mine and my entire families continued existence in your hands. But whatever happens tomorrow night I want to say thank you. You are the first Hunter to ever treat me with respect, with any degree of humanity. I hope when this is all over we can meet in Italy as I suggested? I really would like to spend more time in your company when things aren't quite so ..." He cocked his head and smirked playfully, "chaotic?"

 

[Perplexia]

Chloe shook her head as he told her that he would have guards for her. It took great effort not to role her eyes She would have to ditch them when she went scouting later, She wasn't about to endanger his men to try and keep her safe. She did however take his words to heart. Never underestimating ones opponent was always wise advise.

She had studied the photos memorizing the faces creating a bit of sync in her brain to ensure when she looked through her scope she hit the right ones. She doubted this place had many windows. But it was going to be crucial to find just the right spot to eliminate them. Once she was inside she would be scouting the perimeter for the back up ms. queen bee was going to have to help ambush Nathan.

Then before she knew it he was in front of her. His hand holding hers. Her body so close but just out of reach from touching his. Her face looking up to his. Once again that spark ran through her like fire on oil. Her eyes melting into his. "I agree" she managed to finally say. "You're welcome" slowly she pulled her hand from his and took a step back. "I will not argue about having them watch my hotel. But they are not to follow me scouting." this wasn't a request it was a simple statement.

"Thank you for the use of your equipment, it was much better then the hotels. Now if you'll excuse me, i'll be going. See you tomorrow, and Mr. Raynes, do be safe."

 

[Gabe619]

"I would never have them interfere with your scouting, I doubt they would be able to keep pace with you anyway. I just wanted to make sure you weren't disturbed in your hotel room." He took a step back as well before walking to the door and opening it for her. "I'll see you tomorrow night ... and if we both survive, maybe you could call me Nathan?"

He gave her a hopeful smile as she exited and after she had gone he realised how empty the mansion felt suddenly. Odd really, it was a big place, but it was filled with his family and servants and had never seemed lonely or empty until now. Casting a glance at the door, Nathan turned and walked back to his chair and began going over reports of his families exodus to safety.

***

The night of the meeting had come and he walked out to his limousine dressed in a smart black suit, burgundy silk shirt and dark red silk tie. His two bodyguards sat up front, one driving, one in the passenger seat. Raynes hadn't heard from Chloe as was their agreement although his people at her hotel had reported her leaving for her scouting mission. As ordered they had stayed in place and stated they had seen nothing suspicious. As he was driven to this meet, Nathan realised for the first time in ages he felt nervous. Not for his own life, but for Chloe Heart's. In such a short time she had become important to him which was an oddity in itself, but the sense of nervous energy coursing through him made him feel alive again. Tonight would not be easy, of that he was sure, but he felt confident he could win the day from Constance. If only the woman knew that her clan's demise would be the saving of his own, she would be spitting in hatred.

The limo reached the chalk quarry and moved through the open gates and down the only road that led to the bottom. A little dust blew up from the tyres as it had been dry the last few days, but finally they reached the few buildings at the bottom of the quarry and came to a stop. Nathan stepped out and looked around. The night was chilly, but he didn't feel cold, he felt exhilarated. He had made sure a few over head lights had been left on forming a large pool of illumination at the very centre of the quarry and he, his limo and his bodyguards stood in the centre waiting.

 

[Perplexia]

"I shall give it some consideration" she said with a smirk to his request to call him Nathan. Some how she was able to keep from stumbling as she made her way out the door he held open and to the front door which was held open for her and closed quickly as she exited. Taking a deep breath she nodded to the chauffeur and got in the limo.

The threat of her presence being known was a real one. She had the driver take some precautionary measure to ensure they weren't being tailed before they ended up back at her hotel. As she sat began to undress to take a nice nap, she looked around her room. For the first time she felt the weight of the solitude. Until Nathan it had never been so apparent how truly alone she was.

When she awoke she got dressed and ordered a quick meal to keep her from getting sick. Her clothes were lined with space blanket to block her infrared signature, in the event anyone was looking. Tonight it was just leggings and a hoodie with hiking boots. She had her weapons in their various places as well, but unless she ran into some of the marks people, she shouldn't need them.

The Day of Nathan Raynes Death

Chloe arrived early so she could set up proper surveillance. She was careful not to leave any marks the previous night of her presence. However, someone else had been there, and didn't cover up their tracks. She found 3 remote snipers rifles set up. She couldn't disable them (because they would have known), but she could change out the silver rounds for rubber bullets. Several propel lines had been placed above the buildings. She climbed up the rocks and placed several nitches along the lines. When then hit it they would stick, tug themselves free and plunge to the top of the roofs making a helluva racket. Finding a slight cove she became one with the rocks and positioned herself with her crossbow.

A vehicle arrived and Nathan and his men stepped out. With a quick flash of her laser light she let him know she was there then went dark.

 

[Gabe619]

Nathan saw the quick flash of the laser but didn't react to it. It was more than possible Constance had sent people ahead of her main entourage and he refused to give away the ace up his sleeve. The rumble of approaching motorbikes announced his enemies arrival as five Harley Davidsons roared down the dirt road leading to the quarry floor where he waited. Behind them came a black SUV with tinted windows. The bikes revved their engines, circling Nathan and his two men trying to intimidate them, but only succeeding in making Raynes smile. He was a man who had lived through Africa during the English/Zulu wars, had spied for the British during WW1 and WW2 and had been there in London during the Blitz. Compared to all of that these snarling rabbits meant less than nothing to him. The SUV glided to a stop next to his limo and the passenger jumped out to open the rear door after looking around carefully. Again Nathan smiled, was Constance thinking he would ambush her ambush?

"Constance ... you look beautiful as always." He called as she finally stepped from her vehicle.

She did look beautiful as well. Her pale alabaster skin smooth and unmarred, her blue eyes deep and penetrating. She wore her hair up tonight, but still looked elegant in her tailored white business suit. She smiled as she walked towards him, her hips gently swaying, accentuating her slim hips. Her charms, although hard earned in the brothels of Paris, failed on Nathan. They embraced, each kissing the others cheeks before parting.

"Nathan, you get more handsome each time we meet." Her voice was levelled perfectly, slightly husky to add to her sex appeal. "I'm so sorry this meeting was necessary though. I must apologise for my men's behaviour. If I had known you were attending to the visiting Hunter I would not have sent them ... even so they should of known better than to mess with one such as you. They paid the price and got off easy compared to what I would have done to them." She smiled, all charm and fake apology. "You did take care of that slut you were with right? The Hunter? What was her name now ... Clara ... Carol ...?"

"Chloe." Raynes smiled as she tried to rile him. "And yes, she is taken care of. But Constance, you could of given me this apology over the phone, why the meeting?"

"Well, I wanted to make sure you got the message personally." She turned to look at him, but now her expression had changed and a smirk lurked on her pretty mouth.

The sound of automatic rifle fire began suddenly along the rim of the quarry and Nathan felt a hard impact on his back and side making him glance down at himself, but other than the impact he felt nothing untoward. Then another sound echoed around the quarry, screams followed by the sound of bodies hitting the managers office roof and falling through. Not taking his eyes of the now shocked Constance, Nathan finally let a genuine smile light up his face.

"I got your message, Constance, and as I said Chloe is taken care of ... I gave her everything she needed and now, I think, she is paying you back for your hospitality and welcome to the UK." He chuckled as the shock turned to anger and Constance gestured to her biker escort.