Brave New World (Razgriz x darkangel76)

Cora felt her heart stop. Quite literally, it had skipped a beat. Kaitrin wasn't one to wear her emotions on her sleeve. But ever since their Caravan Boss had left, she'd not been quite right. It was unsettling in many ways. Cissa's blue eyes had gone wide. Her face showing more worry than usual. Without thinking, Cora moved out of her corner and was soon by Kaitrin's side. It was odd being on the other side of the fence. Usually, it was Kaitrin who played the role of comforter.

"Are you sure?" Cora asked, Cissa nodding along with Cora's question.

Kaitrin just looked at the two, her lower lip trembling. "Yes," she said softly. "I've never been more sure in my life."

That was it. How in the hell did Kaitrin sense that? It made no sense. Then again, logic had been thrown out the window long ago. Vishnu...he was the most illogical of them all! And what did he have to do with Kaitrin sensing Hemmingway anyhow? The hell of Cora knew. But that damned android had wormed his way into her soul, searing it with all his words and glares. Could he even glare? Maybe she was just imagining it. He was an artificial intelligence who'd grown arrogant in his old age. Wasn't he? And why weren't her first thoughts that he was nothing more than metal plating and wire?

"Well, what should we do?" Cissa asked before biting down on her lower lip.

Kaitrin shook her head. "He wanted us to stay here," she stated, though everything begged her to run out into the wastes and go searching. But she wouldn't disobey him. Not ever, even if her heart was screaming.

Cora huffed. "You can't mean that," she said harshly. The look in Kaitrin's eyes had said it all.

"No. No, not really. But..." Kaitrin's voice was wavering. She rubbed her eyes with her hands as she tried to make sense of her feelings. "I have to trust him."

~~~

*The Wastes*

Ivan was out on patrol, doing the usual rounds per typical. Like clockwork, he'd skim the surrounding area above his father's lair and report back any information he happened to gather. It had been a most dull and mundane task, but he understood its importance. Though, he had to admit that the task had taken on new meaning ever since the caravan from Hargard had entered their lands. He went through the information they'd gathered on everyone and he lingered on Cora's for a moment longer than the others before placing his focus back on task.

As Ivan flew overhead, knowing exactly how to stay out of Enforcer radar, he picked up a blip. One of familiarity. Immediately, he accessed information on the one named Hemmingway and he zeroed in on his coordinates. He was dangerously close and...Enforcers! They were there!

Ivan landed with a hard thud just behind Hemmingway, his red eyes scanning everything, assessing the situation, calculating. This man had led Cora's caravan. He was important. At all costs, he'd ensure the human's survival.

"An unfair fight," Ivan bellowed causing the Enforcers to take a slight step back. "It's wrong when the odds are so out of balance."

There was only one thing Hemmingway could do in a situation like this. One where he was in shit so deep it blacked out the sun.

"Come on...I know you're out there."

This comment was barely heard by the Sergeant, and completely inaudible to others. "Who's out there? God?" the Sergeant laughed, tacking on "There's only Anselm, 73....Never figured you the religious type, anyway. And even if you're not Vishnu..." He pressed the barrel of his gun ever closer, so as to both terrify and ensure that his shot its mark, "Your jacket will still make one hell of a trophy. And my platoon and I will be legends once we bring your traitorous dead ass back to our King!" Whoops could be heard from the other soldiers, some shouting to just kill him already.

However, the real desire of who Anselm wanted came straight down on top of some poor unfortunate Enforcer that oh-so-happened to be standing in just the wrong place at just the wrong time. His armor crumpled like papier-mâché, the other soldiers leaping back in shock as the gold-plated titan stood amongst their ranks.

"Sir! That's Vishnu!"

That was what one of the other soldiers declared outright; the Sergeant laughed, "Well, shit! We're getting double glory today, boys! We get White Death and Vishnu! After today, no one will ever be able to reach our level! Now let's fucking murder them both! FIRE AT WILL!" And just like that, the soldiers all readied their rifles, the Sergeant dropping to one knee so that the troops directly behind him wouldn't hit him.

Little were they aware of who it was they were ACTUALLY facing...

That was it. Cora couldn't stand it. This was not like the Kaitrin she knew before their caravan run. Everything had changed since then...since Vishnu. She could see the light of the sun glinting off his metallic body while his words hammered home in her mind. Had that been his plan? She couldn't say, but it was her encounter with him that had started it all, caused everything to spiral into chaos. For a fleeting moment, she thought on Ivan. He'd been so kind and warm, so unlike his father. She felt badly that her last moments with him were filled with her own bitterness. But despite those feelings, it wasn't Ivan who was invading her soul. It was Vishnu. Just why did she care what he thought? She was nothing more than a nuisance, a mere blink of an eye as he watched time slip on by. How much had he seen and endured?

Who was his maker?

Cora smiled inwardly. She had a hard time believing Vishnu actually had a true maker. He seemed the sort that would've built himself even though the very notion defied all reason. It was an impossibility, but the idea struck a chord, settling somewhere deep within her core.

Shaking her thoughts and focusing back on Kaitrin, Cora grasped Kaitrin's shoulders and looked directly into her eyes. "I get that," she started. "I even respect it. But this isn't right. I..."

"You're not yourself," Cissa finished. Cora just nodded, grateful for Narcissa's assistance.

Kaitrin sniffed, trying to find the control that had always come so easily, had been so familiar. It felt clumsy as she tried to hold on to it. But she had to try. For him. For everyone. "I'll be fine," she said

"No," Cora said sternly. "We need to get ourselves ready, to be there for Hemmingway." Her dark eyes were expressive, revealing their worry over what Kaitrin experienced.

Kaitrin smiled weakly. She was glad to see Cora's fire slowly returning. Seeing her friend crushed as she'd been after pulling her stunt had been horrifying to say the least. "We can be ready," she stated. "We mentally prepare ourselves for his return, make sure Hargard is safe and secure. We obey his wishes and stand at the ready for when he'll need us."

And god, it was hard to wait. Kaitrin understood Cora's desire for action. Her own need was far greater, though probably for more selfish reasons than anything else. Her cheeks reddened at the silent admission, growing warm as she pried herself away from
Cora's grip.

Cora tilted her head and arched a brow. Kaitrin had never been so cryptic, so difficult to understand. "But, Redstone..."

"You can't go getting him angry all over again," Kaitrin said. "That'll make things worse."

"I'll say," Cissa spoke up. Kaitrin just glared at her. Cissa shrugged.

"You're a good friend, Cora," Kaitrin said turning to look at her friend. "But let it go. Please." She was all but begging and there was a select few who could get her to do as much. Her eyes pleaded, while her heart beat erratically in her chest. She could only hope that Cora would listen. And that her decision to trust Hemm—no matter what she was feeling and longing to do—wasn't for nothing.

He had to come back. He would come back.

~~~

Ivan glanced down, taking in the visual of a crushed Enforcer lying beneath him. He adjusted his stance and scanned his immediate surroundings. Nine Enforcers encircled his own target, the one he knew he needed to rescue. He'd already accounted for the downed vehicles, but that didn't mean the other Enforcers were down for the count. There was always a chance for survival and, with that, they could be upon them in a matter of minutes. Just as he'd assessed the information, there was a sound of clicks and he quickly reached for the one named Hemmingway and pulled him close, shielding him from the onslaught of bullets as they pelted across his golden body.

Ping...ping...the bullets didn't do much in the way of damage, but that hardly meant he was in the clear. Enough of those bullets and he'd lose his shields. It would be then that his structure would start to falter, failing and finally giving way so that his circuitry would spill out and cause him to temporarily shut down.

But that wasn't an option. Not now. The odds were in his favor. He'd seen that before landing amidst Anselm's finest. Ivan glanced behind himself the moment there was a break in the bullets raining down upon him and Hemmingway. The Enforcers looked stunned and that was his moment to act, to take advantage of their fear as the situation slowly sunk in.

They were no match for him. But Hemmingway's safety was still not secured.

Ivan twisted his torso, his right arm morphing as beams suddenly shot from his eyes, glowing ominously. The beams struck down an Enforcer, his body thrusting backwards until he hit the side of the only operational vehicle. The others shifted, shouting warnings to watch for his eyes. But Ivan was already moving. His one arm had already changed shape. He brought it up and let several shots go. Two more down.

By now, the remaining Enforcers were starting to get worried. Without hesitation, he let another round of light from his eyes unleash, the beam sending another Enforcer back with a sickening thwack! But it didn't stop there. The beam cut into the suit, the armor torn from his flesh as he let out a blood curdling cry. His body thrashed, gun going off, as he tried to escape the force sizzling his bones. But it was no use. He was already dead the moment he'd tried to hurt one of Cora's friends.

"Over there!" came another voice. His own stupidity. Ivan's other arm turned knife-like and he went to stab the Enforcer trying to go directly for Hemmingway, while he'd been busy with his friends.

Ivan's arm thrust forward, the blade reaching its mark. The knife easily cut through the armor, striking the man inside the suit's insides. Slowly, he twisted what could only be considered a wrist and let the blade do its work. The Enforcer shouted out, while his organs were turned into pulpy jelly.

Three left.

More bullets struck Ivan's back. His shields were still holding, but it was clear that their power was failing. He had to be efficient if he wanted to get Hemmingway to safety, to see to his own repairs after this round. Ivan turned toward the shooters, his eyes glowing fiercely. He propelled himself up and landed amongst the cowards who would only fight in such a manner. Shooting someone in the back went against moral code. He let his torso twist, while his arms turned into serrated-edged blades. It was as if he'd become a shredder, ready to chop any who came close enough into bloody bits. One, then two were struck by the blades protruding from his arms. Their bodies crumpled, armor cut and organs lying in disarray around him on the dusty ground.

One left.

The last standing Enforcer dropped his gun, the fear he felt more than evident despite his face being hidden within his helmet. It was times like these when Ivan had to make the most difficult of decisions—to show mercy or to show none. Algorithms allowing him to assess things along with incorporating that which he'd already learned, ran through his mind. It didn't take long for him to reach the most logical conclusion to this 'battle'. Without hesitation, his one arm turned back into the gun and he let out a round and then another and another. The last standing Enforcer fell to his knees before finally falling to the ground, his life ended, while Ivan stood over him and enshrouded him in his shadow.

Ivan turned toward Hemmingway, though he took note that the downed vehicles weren't coming to aid. A bluff. Admittedly, a good one. But this worked to only further his advantage. He then moved toward Hemmingway and instantly ran a scan. He was injured, but safe. His mission had been successfully accomplished.

Hemmingway could only yelp in surprise as the gold titan embraced him within a matter of seconds; at that moment, their guns fired, a wall of once-invisible light erupting to life around them. It was a shield, this guy...thing...was making a damn shield!

"No way...." Hemm breathed, watching this barrier of the metal man soak up every last bullet. And right as the Enforcers went to reload, the big man swung into action.

It was a slaughterhouse.

One by one, the massive patrol fell, some granted a quick death whilst others could only writhe and burn from the aftereffect's of this mechanical savior's energy weapons. "This is...Vishnu?" Hemmingway stuttered; he'd heard from Cora this guy was a little loopy, but this was downright psychotic! There was no fear, no hesitation in the attacks. But then he felt a chill run down his spine; there were others behind him.

That seemed to be of little concern, since this monstrosity took notice as well and swiftly dealt with them.

"What the hell is this guy?" the Caravan leader muttered in astonishment; it seemed like forever, but it couldn't have been more than a few minutes. Over two dozen soldiers...Being cut down like pigs to the slaughter. And so easily too; now he could really see why Cora viewed Vishnu as such an asset. He was a beast, completely unstoppable. A perfect machine, that's all he could describe him as.

And then there was one...Vishnu seemed to hesitate, as if contemplating whether or not he should end this bastard's life. A decision that only took a few seconds before a triad of shots perforated his chest. And just like that, it was over very quickly. Hemm nervously considered running off; this Vishnu guy was dangerous.

No....This had been his goal. Try to get Vishnu's attention by using himself as live bait.

Hemmingway sat up as Vishnu's gleaming red eyes looked him over; it was pretty unnerving, but at least he wasn't attacking him. "Hey...Thanks for saving my butt there." he finally managed to say as he stood on two shaky legs, his breathing ragged as he tried to stabilize himself, eventually succeeding after a few attempts.

"So....You must be Vishnu then. My comrades and friends at Hargard told me you were strong. Crazy as a bat out of hell, but strong. Guess I found that out for myself." he then complimented, smiling as he added, "And now that you're here....I got some questions for you." That last bit would certainly give away exactly why he did what he had done.

The air in the workshop was stifling and the uneasy tension brewing between the three of them was more than oppressive. Kaitrin needed to get out, to occupy her mind as she struggled with this odd feeling that had suddenly washed over her, causing her to become aware of things she was certain she shouldn't be sensing. It didn't help that she was coming to grips with her heart on top of things. Though that was something she'd been secretly dealing with for a long time. It was just now she'd been left behind, unable to be there should things turn for the worst.

She didn't like that feeling, being left behind in the dark. It hurt. And more than she let on.

"I've got to go," Kaitrin stated, still shaken, but really wanting to be alone as she coped. She appreciated both Cora's and Cissa's concern, but she needed to work through things alone. The two wouldn't understand what she was going through and they didn't need to be dragged into her own problems. There were other things at stake too.

Cora arched a brow, her worry unrelenting. But Cissa flipped her hair and shook her head. "We understand," the pretty blonde said, trying to reassure Kaitrin, while signaling to Cora that she needed to give it a rest.

Kaitrin smiled, the gratitude she was feeling reaching overwhelming levels. At that, she gave both Cora and Cissa a curt nod and walked out.

"Really?" Cora whined, earning an extremely impressive roll of the eyes from Cissa.

"What?" Cissa exclaimed. "You heard her. We sit tight and do what we can until the boss gets back."

Cora scowled, finding that inner passion Redstone had tried to quash. "Well, I don't have to like it."

"Of course you don't. But it's how it for now. Baby steps." Cissa looked smug as she crossed her arms across her voluptuous chest.

Frowning, but knowing things would be on hold for the time being, Cora sighed and stomped away. Cissa just laughed, but made no move to follow. Cora was glad of it. Her mood had soured and what got to her most was that all of this was her fault.

"Damn you!" Cora bit out to no one, though her thoughts were filled with that bastard of an android who'd now invaded her entire way of thinking. She slammed the door to her room and plopped down on her tiny bed. "Just why?" Tears stung her eyes as she lied back and stared at the ceiling above her.

Cora hated sitting still. She wanted to do something, not wait for things to come to her or happen on their own. It was beyond aggravating! And then there was Redstone. The blowhard wasn't making things easy and given his latest treatment of her, the trust she once held for the guy had diminished severely.

Vishnu.

If only that bucket of bolts hadn't turned her away empty handed. Not to mention, if he hadn't completely destroyed the buggy she'd lifted in order to go find him. It was his fault!

Only Cora knew that it wasn't. She only had herself to blame. She'd gone about things all wrong, though she hardly regretted her ideas and doing what she could to see them through. How she wished Vishnu would at least acknowledge that.

But he wouldn't. He couldn't. Could he? Cora wasn't entirely sure. Vishnu was old, knowledgable. He'd honed in on her actions and was merciless in his scrutiny. Just what did he know and why wouldn't he help? The question ate away at her mind as she cried herself to sleep.

~~~

Ivan stood there for several moments as he watched Hemmingway gather himself together. His injuries weren't bad, but he'd still need some assistance, especially since his travels back to Hargard would warrant he be in the best of shape. But that could wait, for the time being. He listened to Cora's friend as he spoke—his statements, his questions. It appeared as though Ivan had gone thoughtful, though he was merely piecing everything together as he heard them.

"Cora spoke highly of you," Ivan began. "Though the one you seek is hardly me." If he could smile right then, he would have. "The one you want to speak to is my father, the one who made me." He took a step closer, getting a better read on the man's wounds. "Hold still," he demanded as he brought up a hand, ready to do his work and heal him. "I'll take you to him and you can ask him your questions directly. But not until I've taken care of your injuries."

Ivan paused. This was Cora's doing. After she'd come out on her own as she had, there was no mistake that it was her influence and hers alone that brought this man practically upon their doorstep.

"He won't like it," Ivan stated plainly. "But you've faced many dangers. It's only fair that he receive you." Though he recalled just how viciously he'd thrown Cora out, dismissed her more coldly than he'd have thought possible. However, now that another had arrived, perhaps he'd finally listen. It was a gamble to say the least, but he was willing to play the odds.

Hemmingway was more than surprised; this wasn't Vishnu? But he was the one that created someone like? He'd honestly thought this was Vishnu the entire time, even when he came to Hargard itself. Consequence being unconscious for almost the entirety of the android's stay. Now he felt kind of silly, but he was glad this 'man' didn't seem to want to belittle him for his moment of density. And when he spoke about bringing him to his father, he just smiled and nodded. That would be fine too; if he made something like this, he could only imagine what else this Vishnu character had created.

"That sounds fine...Though if I might ask, who are you?" Hemmingway replied; now he was curious to know this thing's identity, if it had one. He had to have one; any creator always labeled their design, after all.

Though little did he realize that Vishnu had no intention of letting Ivan do anything that would compromise the security of his hideout. He would listen to the man alright, but he would not be allowed anywhere near his lair. He kept it hidden for a reason, and he planned to keep it that way.

Soon enough, a low rumbling filled the air, growing louder and louder with each passing second. Hemmingway looked up and around, soon looking back to his protector and asking, "Do you hear that?" And moments after he said that, something crashed into the ground behind him, a cloud of choking dust and billowing wind forcing him to cover his eyes. And when the dust settled, he saw something that made him freeze a little.

It was an Enforcer suit, its form hunched over on one knee with a clenched fist braced on the ground...Except the design looked completely different. He only recognized it from the sterling white coloration and the facial 'features' of the armor's helm. And then it rose, white 'eyes' gleaming as it stared at Hemmingway and Ivan. It seemed more 'human', the physique far more ergonomic and form-fitting...Could this be him?

"Son, if you wanted me to talk to this man, all you had to do was ask. You know my rules about outsiders." he then spoke, surprising Hemm completely. He had heard his 'son' say that? That confirmed it...

"Vishnu..." Hemm breathed; he was an Enforcer? That couldn't be, no way he was one. But he soon got his answer, and the back hatch of the armor opened, a spindly-looking frame of a robot stepping out. This was the form that Cora had seen, then, Hemm realized.

"Well? Any particular reason you attacked an Enforcer convoy to get Ivan and I's attention? Not that I don't already know the answer...That stupid woman is persistent, I'll give her that. But never did I think she'd sink so low as to guilt someone into trying to change my mind." he then spoke harshly, already setting a bad mood for the ensuing conversation.

"But then again, you ARE the only one in that backdune village that had a chance of this succeeding. This isn't your first rodeo, after all. Right, Soldier 73? Or do you go by Hemmingway now? Or that tired nickname 'White Death' still?" Vishnu tacked on while waving his skeletal robotic hands in a rudely sarcastic manner as he spoke his old moniker, taking Hemm completely off-guard. How much did this guy know?

Giving a slight cough, Hemm said as calmly as possible, "Yeah, it's Hemmingway now. But since you seem to already know why I'm here, I'll get right to it. Cora DOES believe you can help us. Help everyone get rid of Anselm. He's a disease, a plague swallowing everything it touches. Everyday more and more settlements fall under his control, their cities torn down and rebuilt in his image." As he said this, he clutched his left arm, covering part of the ink that reminded him of his former task. Images of those conquests raced through his head, details that he wished to forget surging with a shattering freshness back to the front of his mind.

"And why, pray tell, would sending someone different make me reconsider?" Vishnu snapped, crossing his arms in a gesture of impatience.

Cora felt something bite into her wrists. It hurt, stinging her flesh the more she squirmed. But it was no use. She couldn't break free and the warm trickle of blood flowed freely down along her pale arms. They were raised above her head, stuck fast in something sticky, something strong. Tears ran along her cheeks, her eyes sore from all her crying.

"Please," Cora begged, her desire to be understood overwhelming her senses.

But no one answered. All she could see was a shadow in the distance. She didn't need to see his full form to know who it was, his eyes every scrutinizing, ever judging.

Cora hung her head in shame, hearing Vishnu's taunts in her ear. All she could do was hope, but her heart told her such a feat was impossible. Just when despair filled her to the brim, her wrists were freed and she fell hard against the cold ground.

"Oww!" Cora groaned, her dark eyes opening. She'd fallen asleep and had somehow tumbled out of bed and onto the floor. Glancing around, she half expected to see Vishnu appear and start laughing at her. But he wasn't in Hargard. He didn't want to talk, let alone help, anyone. Especially her. She could only hope that Hemmingway had better success.

~~~

Ivan cocked his head to the side, algorithms firing in his mind as he processed Hemmingway's words. He figured it would probably be considered amusing when asked who he was. He'd spent some time in Hargard at Cora's behest, though his father had been absolutely furious with his choices in that regard. Still, it had been worth it—a chance to make an impact all while learning more about humans, what drove them and made them display the emotions they did. He'd learned much while staying with the Hargardians and didn't regret his decisions in the slightest. As he looked at Hemmingway, he decided simple facts would work well enough.

"I am Ivan," Ivan said, introducing himself to the man.

Ivan remembered healing Hemmingway after the ordeal Cora and her group had endured. He'd been in bad shape, but now he was up and functioning as if none of that had happened at all. It all had to do with the genius of his father. Without the nanites, most of Cora's group—Cora included—would've died.

"Vishnu is my father," Ivan continued. "Don't worry about the mistake in identity. This happens all the time. You aren't the first and will no doubt not be the last." He paused a moment. "My father feels no need for me to make the corrections, though for you and your people exceptions have been made." It was proof that Ivan had free will, a mind of his own that assessed and learned. If he could defy his father's desires, then he truly was a marvel!

Just then there was a rumble as the dust kicked up all around. An Enforcer's armor landed as if on cue and Ivan knew his father had been watching, biding his time before coming out into the open. Of course, a threat to release any information to outsiders was enough of a means to get him out and about. He knew damned well that any other plea would've gone unanswered. At least where Cora had been concerned.

Ivan stepped back as his father exited the armor, his spindly limbs working to keep him upright as he moved closer to Hemmingway. Once again, the android showed no mercy. And, as he expected, he began to place full blame on Cora. More than once he found himself wanting to speak up on Cora's behalf. But it was a fool's errand to stand in his way once his mind had been made up.

Listening to Hemmingway was like listening to Cora. The night she'd come searching was still quite vivid in his mind. She'd been so eager and full of life. Her passion oozed from every pore and she believed in her words, her actions. It was clear that she'd talked to her friends, that she was trying to start some sort of alliance between Hargard and his father. But could he see that? Did these humans have the means to convince his father that not all were selfish and arrogant? It was hard to tell. However, the fact that another had dared to come gave him hope that Cora was indeed different from most.

"We're not asking you to save us...We're asking for your help." Hemm tried to reason, only for Vishnu to reply, "Yes, yes, because I'm the ONLY one that has the technology to counter his Enforcers. That idiotic woman already clarified as such, but that still doesn't explain WHY I should bother intervening. The only meaningful resistance against Anselm's troops is already half-dead, most of their command butchered or captured and hundreds of their hired guns lying to rot in the Wastes." Vishnu then threw his arms upward, adding in a huff, "You humans honestly infuriate me, you know that?"

Hemm could only cross his arms and reply, "Why? Because we don't just roll over and accept defeat? Would you?" Vishnu scoffed, "Me? Beaten by that tantrum-throwing brat on his golden throne? Surely you jest?" At this Hemm smiled, "That's not what I asked. I asked if you were in our position. Back against the wall with nowhere to run and nothing to defend you. Would you just surrender?" At this the spindly android paused, but then let something akin to a chuckle emit from his vocal processors, "Ah, I see, a question regarding the fallacy of human pride. To be fair? No, but I would also recognize FAR in advance that I wouldn't let myself be placed in a losing situation like that."

He then spread his skinny metal arms wide, "Like this, see? This is why I will live on. I've placed myself in the best situation. I cannot be touched. Like that woman says...I have the technology to annihilate everything if I wanted to." Hemm then unslung a revolver from his pistol and pointed it right at the smaller android, "Seems to me like this would put you down real easy now that you're out in the open." At this Vishnu paused again, 'cocking' his head as if curious. A loud bout of laughter then erupted from his speakers, his voice cracking as he tried to say, "Oh, oh my goodness! You humans, aggravating as you are, really crack me up sometimes!"

Vishnu then wheezed and fell onto his back, his 'hands' clutching his sides as if he were about to die from a sudden fit of hysteria. Hemm could only watch in silent shock; this, this 'thing', made Ivan? Doubt crept into his mind about the validity of that, but still kept the gun trained on Vishnu as he rose back up, his laughter slowly dying down until he was able to speak clearly again. "Whew, that was a good one. But do you really think that would do you any good? Even if it COULD kill me...Did you forget who you're dealing?" Vishnu then pointed down with an edged digit; Hemm's eyes traveled to see about seven red dots on Hemm's chest, shoulders and gut, Vishnu adding on "There's also one aimed square at your forehead."

"Snipers..." Hemm muttered, to which the spindly bot replied cheerfully, "VERY GOOD! Ten points to Hargard!" Vishnu then started walking around, waving his hands this way and that"Let's do the math, shall we? A twenty-millimeter round weighs, what, zero-point-one kilograms? And let's say the muzzle velocity is, oh two-thousand feet per second? Now granted that's only because of some tweaks I made, but still....You know what, this is probably getting lost on you, so I'll just..."

"So you can punch a hole through a Punisher from about twenty football fields away...That about right? Anselm's got weapons just like that with the Enforcers. And all it would do is turn me into dust." Hemm then cut in, making Vishnu stop and look at the man. "Well now...You can do basic ballistics. Well done, I'm glad you appreciate the situation you're in...So if you'd kindly put that away. As much as I have no trouble ending you, I also am a father. I don't wish to upset my son by you forcing my hand." Hemm just let out a sigh and holstered a weapon, the tiny dots of light fading as the sentries beyond stood down.

"Well, that didn't go as expected...I was trying to make him see that he's not perfect, but he's got me outmatched. I didn't expect him to be this well-prepared. Damn it....Sorry, Cora, I'm not sure this is going to work out." Hem thought to himself, asking "So...I'm guessing you're dead set on leaving us to die?" Vishnu replied, "My son will try to help you as much as he can...That's about all I can say. Now, if you and your little friends would be so kind as to stop bothering me...I do have my own work to attend to. Ivan, please take this man back home safely. I think we're done here." And just like that, Vishnu climbed back in his redesigned Enforcer armor and primed the systems.

Before he took off, however, he then 'looked' at Hemmingway and said, "But do tell Cora I appreciate the flower gift! I've learned quite a bit from it!" And then the thrusters on the hands and feet fired, carrying Vishnu away to places unknown. Hemm could only sigh; well, shit, now this was going to be a fun thing to explain to Redstone. "Fuck!" he shouted, kicking the ground in frustration.

The sun was slowly fading, the sky streaking with soft purples and reds. It had been hours since Hemmingway had gone and the lack of knowing anything was taking its toll on Kaitrin. The raven-haired beauty had needed her space, though she'd appreciated Cora's enthusiasm. Little did her friend know that her heart was screaming to defy Redstone's wishes, to grab the best buggy and high tail it out of Hargard, come hell or high water. But she knew it would ultimately make things worse. She had to trust Hemmingway's decision even though it hurt, even though she was frightened.

Kaitrin couldn't shake that unsettling feeling as she sat all alone outside. Redstone had walked past her once, his eyes hard and determined. The old goat just didn't get anything. She supposed she understood his position, but Cora had been right. She was the only one brave enough to say what they'd all been thinking for years. Hell, she was sure Redstone thought it too. He was just too damned stubborn to admit it! They were slowly being starved out, play things in Anselm's little game as he sat there all high and mighty. It angered her to know that they were probably playing into Anselm's plan...let them think they have a chance at living...but they truly weren't doing that. They were barely surviving. Anselm's Enforcers were making their way closer and closer and...

Clamping her eyes shut, Kaitrin stopped right there. She felt that sting in her eyes and she didn't like it. The feeling that had washed over her earlier left her raw, feeling exposed and vulnerable. How she hoped Hemm would hurry and make it back. She didn't like that he was out there with no back up. Nothing.

"Goddamnit, Hemm," Kaitrin whispered on a sigh. Slowly, she opened her eyes. They were sore and she wiped at them with angry frustration. But it was no use. She'd just have to sit tight. For now.

Meanwhile, back inside the shop, Cora had decided to stay in her room. Kaitrin was making her worry and then there had been that dream she just couldn't shake. Once or twice, she played with the idea of talking about it with Narcissa. But each time she'd thought better of it. True, the relationship she and Cissa held was different than it had been before the caravan run, but trusting her with her life and then with something like this...? Yeah, she'd decided those were two different things entirely.

It had gotten late though, the sun dipping low on the horizon. Cora glanced out her window and wondered if...no when...Hemmingway would return. She wasn't sure she could wait much longer. A full day was long enough! Lives were at stake here. But she could hear Cissa chiding her, reassuring her that a quick return would mean failure. But she knew no return only meant one thing.

"Shit," Cora huffed. She buried her face in her hands, but as darkness swept over her eyes, all she saw was that damned Vishnu. She'd give him a piece of her mind if he let anything happen to her boss! He...he just couldn't be that cruel!

Suddenly, a faint rumble caused Cora to perk up slightly. She looked at her window and ran over to it, peeking outside. Her dark eyes immediately found the sky. In the distance, there was no mistaking the shape that she saw. It was Ivan. Her heart leapt, beating fast that perhaps Vishnu could be reasoned with, that he did have a heart.

Cora paused suddenly. A heart? It was a silly thought. Vishnu was android. He had no heart. But why did she find herself hoping otherwise? It was disconcerting, much like her dreams. He was this impossible puzzle that couldn't be solved, yet she found herself wanting to...no, needing to. At that, she ran outside, repeating Vishnu's name excitedly with every step. Cissa was already there once she threw open the door, hands on her hips and a small smile causing one corner of her lips to tilt up. And then there was Kaitrin, eyes fixed on the dark spot in the sky as it moved ever closer.

"Please, Vishnu," Cora begged, her words inaudible to everyone but her.

Kaitrin swallowed hard, her tongue peeking out to wet her lips as nervousness consumed her. It was just Ivan up there. Somehow she knew it. She just hoped that Hemm was part of this little party dropping in on Hargard. Despite not wanting to get her hopes up, she found that she couldn't. Her heart raced at the notion that Hemm would soon be home where he belonged.

It wasn't long before Ivan landed right in the heart of Hargard. Quite a crowd had seemed to gather, his red eyes easily finding Cora's face among them all. Without a word, he set Hemmingway down and took a step back.

Cora's eyes narrowed as she took in the return party. There was Ivan. Of course he would come. He was always running errands for his father. There was Hemmingway. The boss looked a bit battered, but he seemed to be in one piece though it was hard not to notice the blood staining some of his clothes. No doubt he'd been healed. Her eyes continued scanning.

Vishnu was no where. Not anywhere in sight. He...he hadn't come! Cora gave Ivan a hard, yet disappointed look, but it started to falter as she felt the tears fall from her eyes. That bastard, Vishnu! How could he? Unable to control her emotions she just ran away and back to the shop.

Kaitrin was too fixated on the scene to notice Cora come and go as she had. Her hands, her knees, her whole body was trembling. Her pale eyes flitted over to Hemmingway the moment he came into view. His clothes were bloody. Just what had happened out there? Though she wanted to run, she forced herself to walk toward Hemm, her heart beating wildly as she approached.

"You made it back," Kaitrin stated, though her voice was softer than usual. It was suddenly hard to breathe and the relief she felt was overwhelming. She suddenly wished she could hide her face, which no doubt looked frightful due to her worrying...and crying. "You..." her voice trailed and she looked at the ground. It was the only defense she had. "Good to have you back."

Cora, now inside the shop, was pacing. She muttered curses under her breath as everything sunk in. Vishnu hadn't come. And he wouldn't! He'd made it plain that he wouldn't. More than anything, she longed to find him and drag him away from his secret hiding place even if he was kicking and screaming! It was the least he deserved! Just then, she pounded a fist against the wall in frustration and let out a tiny shout.

"Impossible man!" Cora shrieked. She instantly flushed at her words. Man indeed. Vishnu was no man. Hell, he was nothing but metal and wire! But... "Damn you!" she shouted trying to shift her thoughts. "Damn you..." she said again just before letting loose and crying.

Back outside, Kaitrin steeled herself to look back up at Hemmingway. "Your clothes are bloody," she said, her one hand reaching out to inspect the blood stains and tears. "Just...just what did you do?"

Hemmingway just stood there as he landed in front of everyone, them all staring at him as he stared right back. This was getting kind of awkward, at least until Kaitrin broke the silence. Despite the fact that she was holding her shaking as best as she could, it was extremely obvious that she was worried sick about him. And he wasn't so blind as to not notice her himself; truth be told, she was the most incredible woman he'd ever met. Level-headed, calm, collected...At least when most of the variables had been accounted for. And it was damned clear that her interest in him lay more than just professionally...Whether it was love or not he was uncertain, but it absolutely went deeper than friendship.

And with how much he put her through this past while...He decided that once Redstone gave him the ass-chewing he was going to get, he'd tell her. Everything he could tell about him. And if Cissa and the others wanted to hear...Well, first he'd tell it to Kaitrin. See how she handled it. "I think if I told you, I might make you cry some more, and then I feel even worse than I do now." he replied, reaching to grab her hand in his own, "But I promise to tell you what happened...First though, the Mayor and I need to settle one last piece of business."

"Hemm..." then came a familiar voice; the hulking form of Mayor Redstone came through the crowd, the others that didn't move from his path being shoved aside as the man approached the hardy ex-Enforcer. "So....Take it your stunt didn't go s'well, did it?" Redstone then asked as he crossed his massive arms in front of him, his expression clearly that of displeasure. Hemmingway could only nod, "Unfortunately; seems Vishnu was a harder nut to crack than anticipated."

Ivan could see the anger in Cora's eyes, his red ones fixing on her as she stared at him...Only for her to start shedding tears and running off. At this Ivan chimed in, "Mayor, I know with Cora the circumstances were different...But this man risked everything to try and get an audience with my father, just as she did. Please, I ask of you as I did for her: Show leniency." Hemm then piped up, "Sorry, Ivan....But the Mayor and I agreed on what would happen should I fail. I'm ready to accept my resignation as Caravan Boss...And serve what would have been Cora's sentence in jail." At this, nearly the entire crowd gasped in surprise; the man risked something of HIS prestige just to talk to a self-absorbed android? Many of them then instantly turned to the Mayor, who seemed unflinching as Hemm walked forward with his wrists held out.

"Go ahead, Mayor....I deserve it." he replied calmly, resolute of his fate. Redstone just gave a loud sigh, closed his eyes and lowered his head in thought. "Whatever the hell you did out there turned you into a softie, Hemm..." he then said, slowly looking back at the Caravan Boss; Hemm's eyes widened in surprise. "Do you know how stupid I would have to be to lock up one of my best, if not my BEST? What kind of damn fool do you take me for?" Redstone demanded angrily, to which Hemm stuttered, "But I don't understand....The contract I signed."

Redstone then pulled the very same out of his coat pocket, "You mean this worthless piece of ass-paper? Not even good enough to wipe myself with." He then took the lighter for his cigars - a silver-clad tiny square engraved with Anselm's eagle, a trophy of one of his earlier kills - and after one click, put the flame and lit it ablaze before dropping it. "I wanted to see how serious you were. How much you were really willing to risk on this fool's errand. And it looks like everything; that alone's enough to keep you out of jail." Even the other townspeople were shocked to see the Mayor reneg on a deal, especially one like that.

"Mayor, I don't...." Hemm started to say, but Redstone just interjected "Save it, Hemm...I didn't say you were COMPLETELY off the hook. You're going to be pulling grave-shift watches for a LONG time, and you'll be temporarily assigned errand boy alongside you leading Caravan runs." Hemm felt a shiver run through his body; in all honesty, he would taken sitting in jail over something like THAT!

"Ah, I see...Work to pay off a debt. A most logical choice, very commendable Mayor." Ivan then chided in, apparently pleased by the Mayor's decision to not throw the man behind bars. "Commendable!? He's going to work me to death!" Hemm protested, to which Ivan replied, "I just witnessed you rush a two-tank Enforcer convoy armed with nothing but a half-beaten buggy, your wit and two grenades...And come out nearly untouched. I hardly think extra labor will phase you in the slightest". Well, there went his plan of keeping what he did silent. Even the Mayor seemed downright stupefied, his voice failing him before he finally shouted, "YOU DID WHAT?!"

With red-rimmed eyes, Kaitrin looked up at Hemm the moment he took her hand in his. It was rough and warm and it was the first time he'd initiated such a gesture. For all the time they'd spent together, she never expected him to break form. But as she savored the sensation of their palms sliding together, she was glad that he finally did. While her insides fluttered at the contact, she smiled sheepishly, the air hot and dry as a breeze made its way through the crowd of onlookers. Hemm's words had made her smile just then and somehow she knew that he'd done something risky, dangerous...life threatening. Something so very him. She licked at her lips, her feelings overwhelming her as she braced herself for the inevitable from Redstone.

Kaitrin set her jaw and took a step closer to the Caravan Boss. She'd give Redstone a piece of her mind if he so much as did anything that... Her cheeks suddenly reddened and she did her best to remain calm. Glancing at Hemm, she was just glad to have him home. Her blue eyes glittered and she gave him a look letting him know he'd better make good of his promise. Just then, Redstone worked his way through the small sea of people. He looked angry and Hemm seemed resigned to face whatever his fate might be. But Kaitrin wasn't ready to give Hemm up just yet, not when he'd just come home to her! Ugh, life was far too cruel sometimes.

Redstone huffed and puffed, he and Hemm talking cryptically and making Kaitrin's thoughts go wild! Suddenly, the man lit the contract on fire. Kaitrin gasped, unsure of what she was actually witnessing.

Cissa shook her head, blonde waves cascading over her shoulders, and laughed softly as the mayor lit the contract on fire. She had to give the guy credit. He could be an unpredictable bastard. She'd expected to see Hemmingway in chains, thrown into a dark room much like he'd done to Cora. After all, more were watching this time and more had been at stake. But, once again, the mayor of Hargard had come through. He'd been wrong about Hemm, about Cora and goddamn he wasn't afraid to admit it. It made her insides warm knowing they were being led by such a man. Her respect for him grew in that moment, making her realize just the sort he truly was. She then touched her scar, fingers gently caressing the gnarled ribbon of flesh that streaked her face. A smile then graced her full lips and she gave the mayor a nod before quietly slipping away and into the crowd.

Kaitrin didn't see Cissa leave. She was too preoccupied at the idea of Hemm getting off easier than expected. Surely there had to be a catch. He didn't deserve jail time and he was an asset to the town, but Redstone was known for following through on his decisions. Why would he back down now. She chanced a glance in the mayor's direction and for a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to hope. It was a silly thing, no doubt it would be crushed in mere moments. Her daydream was interrupted as Ivan's voice filled her ears, his words making her eyes go wiz and her thoughts wild.

"Hemm..." Kaitrin whispered, her hold on his hand only tightening. He'd taken out Anselm's finest? Alone? Such a feat was impossible!

Meanwhile, Cissa strolled back to the shop. She knew that's where Cora had run off to after she'd disappeared into the crowd. The blonde honestly didn't know what the girl was expecting. She remembered that Vishnu. He seemed half crazed and far from a humanitarian. It was rather ironic that Ivan was his son. She threw open the door and went inside, but Cora wasn't anywhere to be found.

"The plants," Cissa sighed and she went toward the back and stood in front of the rickety door leading to Kaitrin's greenhouse. She let her hand longer on the knob before pushing it open.

Cora busied herself with the plants, particularly the ones she'd asked Ivan to share with Vishnu. Hmph, that bastard probably didn't even care! He probably thought her some foolish girl, silly and something to laugh at. He was probably laughing right at that moment. Knowing full well just how much he'd crushed her hopes. He probably reveled in her misery.

Just then, Cora sniffled and angrily wiped away the tears in her eyes. She looked up and saw Cissa and immediately let out a groan.

"Don't worry," Cissa said. "I'm not here to tease, though it's tempting." Cora just grunted and continued working with the plants. "Just thought you should know that the boss doesn't have jail time."

Cora perked up a little and nodded brusquely. "Good. He didn't deserve it in the first place."

"Also," Cissa went on, prodding a little. "Ivan's out there."

Cora just shrugged.

"Well, I thought you'd be happy to see him," Cissa said. "You two seemed cozy the last time he was here."

Cora's face twisted. Cozy? Just what was Cissa getting at? She liked Ivan, only...

"What? Hit a nerve?" Cissa prodded.

"No," Cora rebutted. "I don't care what Ivan thinks."

At that, Cissa just shook her head. Cora let out a tiny growl.

"Well, I don't!" Cora shouted.

"I know," Cissa stated plain. "There's only one whose opinion matters to you. You're just too stupid to see it."

Cora arched a brow and placed her hands on her hips. Cissa was starting to cross a line. She knew exactly where the blonde was going with this. Was she insane?

"I don't care what Vishnu thinks either!" Cora shouted.

"What makes you think I was going to bring up that bucket of bolts?" Cissa asked, her lips quirked up into a smile.

Immediately, Cora's cheeks began to burn. She took a step back from the plants. Cissa giggled and Cora ran back inside the shop.

"And hey, truth be told, I wasn't fully alone...." Hemmingway added on as he heard Kaitrin's whisper, nodding to the golden titan standing behind him. Ivan then saw many a gaze shift to look upon him; if robots could blush, Ivan's face would be cherry-red right now as the feelings of embarrassment rushed through his neural circuitry. "It's not like I was going to let the Enforcers just kill him..." the android then commented weakly, his 'eyes' shifting away from the crowds.

Redstone just sighed, "Look, it doesn't matter. Hemm's back and we're all safe for another day. Everyone, let's just clear on out. Go on, back to your work." And within moments, the Mayor exercised his authority and started to clear everyone away. Ivan then let out what could only be described as a sound of relief. "Well...Despite the objections, I do honestly believe you got a better deal." Ivan then said to Hemm, who replied, "Yeah...Going to be hard though. Not really a whole lot else that would have happened though." Ivan then seemed to smile with his body, his posture more upright as he took joy in the man's words.

"True, I suppose. Still...I must be off. Father must be worried about me by now." Ivan then replied, regretting not being able to say goodbye to Cora. Something that the Caravan boss picked up on, adding with a smile "Don't worry...I'll tell her you said hi." Ivan just nodded, his eyes turning back to the horizon as he retorted with, "Thank you, Hemmingway...I only ask you don't play another game like that in the future. If you wish to contact me..." The android paused and held out a palm, something shifting and forming on it before taking shape of an old world radio. He then tossed it to Hemm, who caught it and looked it over, wondering what Ivan just made now. "This device will let you contact me, at any time; while I can't bring you to my father, I will be happy to answer any questions you or your comrades might have. Be well now...All of you."

And just like that, Ivan took off to the skies again, leaving Hargard in peace once more. And this time...Hemm would give Kaitrin the answers she sought. "Hey, Kait...." he then said to the young woman, using a nickname that very few ever used around her. "Come with a second, would you? There's something I need to tell you...We'll go to my place." he then asked, and without giving her a chance to reply took off towards his house. As they might walk, he was uncharacteristically silent, and his body posture suggested that whatever it was he wanted to share was not exactly a pleasant subject.

All the color left Kaitrin's face as Hemmingway's words sunk in...not alone? Had he put his life on the line betting that Ivan and company would show up when things reached critical levels? Had he known or just hoped? So many things swirled through her mind and she kept coming to the conclusion that there was no way he could've known this outcome. It had been all or nothing. Then, he'd always been that way with the caravan runs. It was why he was the boss and...

It was a big reason why she loved him.

Kaitrin let the fear do its work just as she let it any time they'd done a run in the past. Though, this one had been different. She hadn't been there. Hemm had gone solo. Still, she let it take hold, gripping her heart for a moment or two until she let it slowly ebb away. As a sense of calm washed over her, she knew she never wanted to experience that again. But she understood why he did it and, no doubt, would do so again. Knowing that, she wouldn't fault him or stop him. It was the kind of man he was and she'd been in love with him for a long time.

"Just..." Kaitrin began, but the words eluded her. So, instead she smiled when he called her Kait, and let Hemmingway nudge her along to his place. Her tummy fluttered and she wondered if he'd be making good on his promise.

Kaitrin was quiet for a long while as they walked. Her blue eyes cast down, as she fixed them on the dusty ground. She closed the distance between she and Hemm, her shoulder barely brushing against him, sending tiny tingles coursing over her skin. As they reached Hemm's place, she turned to look at him, her eyes finding his, while her heart began to pound.

"Next time you decide to risk your life with no back up," Kaitrin stated. "You'd better think again and take me along."

Kaitrin smiled broadly, her words heartfelt, though she knew Hemmingway would do what he had to, what felt right for any given situation. Even if it meant putting himself in danger once again. It was why she'd trusted him earlier. It was why she wouldn't let Cora or Cissa do something despite her own worries and fear. When Hemmingway had a plan...you didn't stand in his way. It was why he led the runs and had the best success rate of any of Redstone's people.

"So," Kaitrin then said, her cheeks reddening slightly. "What did you want to tell me?"

Meanwhile, back at the shop, Cora had run to her room and slammed the door. She worked quickly to lock it up, wanting to ensure Cissa didn't corner her there and speak about more nonsense. Just what had she been on about? Cora fumed, pacing back and forth several times. She wrung her hands together as the urge to throw something overwhelmed her senses. That Vishnu...

Just why wouldn't he help? Why?

Suddenly, Cora heard a low rumble. She peeked out her window and saw Ivan take off to the skies. Just then, she began to tremble, seething with fury at how little they'd accomplished and how no one was willing to take action. Well, the boss did. And that made her even angrier. Anyone willing to try, to act was snuffed out.

At that, Cora ran outside, the crowd already dispersed, and glared up to where Ivan was leaving them all behind. She shook her fist in the air and shouted. "Go on! Leave!" Her entire body was shaking. "And tell your father he's an arrogant, heartless bastard!" She fell to her knees and buried her face in her hands.

Just then, Cora heard soft footfalls behind her. Cissa tsk'd as she approached. "So much anger," the blonde spoke matter of factly.

Cora groaned. "Leave me alone."

Cissa pursed her lips and shook her head. "I'm right aren't I?" she muttered.

Cora felt like she was going to explode. "I...I don't even know," she answered, her face full of confusion.

Cissa sighed. "Doesn't matter right now. At least everyone is safe. Right?"

Cora nodded. Cissa was right. Besides, they could still do something even without Vishnu's help. Though it burned that the jerk wouldn't even try. He had so much to offer. That settled it. She needed to know who made him. Perhaps that would help her learn some answers and maybe, just maybe, they help they desperately needed. It was an idea anyway. One she hoped the others would want to pursue.

At least it was far less dangerous than bulling their way into Capital City. Or, so she hoped.

Hemmingway only just in front of Kaitrin as she told him her feelings. So like her, straight to the point; though even with that stoicism, the man could see she had a very caring heart. One hidden by a calculated coldness breachable by only those that that truly earned her trust. It was another trait among many that he admired about her, something endearing. He certainly hadn't noticed her attempts to get closer, her shoulder nudging him ever so often as she tried to stay close. And as he led her inside, he went to the nearby sink and poured out some water for both of them, a handy convenience from the Old World's treasure trove devices, before motioning for her to sit in one of the dining room chairs, himself seated opposite of her.

"First...I wanted to say sorry. I'm sorry that I had you so worried." he then replied, his tone conveying a very clear message of 'Don't deny it' as he hunched over, his forearms resting on the table. "As hard-headed as it was, I honestly thought it would show that we're willing to put in the work. Willing to do what needs to be done to take Anselm down. But it seems this Vishnu doesn't care enough about him to want to do anything about it. In some ways...I'm thinking he sees as only insignificant ants that he can step on at any time."

Breathing a heavy breath, he then added while sitting up straighter, "But that's not what I wanted to talk to you about. It was about the promise I made, why I couldn't tell you certain things. Truth be told, I didn't even want the Mayor to know about, but he's a perceptive bastard when he wants to be and he wouldn't even have let me in here if I tried to hide it..." He paused, weighing the enormity of what he was about to say before deciding it would be bes to get it over with. "And so far, he's the only one that knows about it. I had wanted to keep it that way, but I also don't want to lose your trust and respect. So please...Just bear with me until I finish."

And then off came the jacket, revealing his strong chest clothed in a sleeveless white shirt and his arms rippled with lean muscle. And then he revealed to her his left arm, his most grievous and heinous secret: The emblem of Anselm, evidence of his former role in this world. "Kaitrin...I know as much as I do because I was once one of His Majesty's Enforcers. The things I've seen, the atrocities I've committed in his name...I wish I could throw it all away. Sometimes I wish to just cut this damned tattoo off...But I can't. This is what motivates me, drives me to protect this town. Every time I look at this, I remind myself to never let what the Enforcers do to other towns happen here."

And then he revealed his right arm: A single streak of what appeared to be red-dyed grease, topped with a red crowned skull and crossbones. "And this is something that not even Redstone himself knows about, nor any of the other Enforcers. You've heard of the Gearheads, right? The ones that can take on Anselm's armor with measurable success? When I left the Enforcers, I wandered for a while before I found one of their 'workshops'...They saw my mark and tried to kill me. But their leader told them off, saying I could be useful as ransom....Needless to say, this brand marks me as one of them, and they showed me things that not even Anselm's finest technicians could do."

Taking one last deep breath, he then finalized, "I know as much as I do about the Ghosts not because I was involved with them..But because as both an Enforcer and a Gearhead, we raided their camps for supplies and contraband, killing every single one we found. The scribes in the King's employ found their rituals interesting, and we used that knowledge several times to bait them into leaving their caves. The intel was...elaborate in its descriptions, so I learned quite a lot about them in a short time. More than I wanted to..." His head was bowed at this part, the shame of his past evident on his face.

Steeling his resolve, he then looked to Kaitrin with a hardened gaze, "I sincerely hope this doesn't affect our relationship; I would hate to lose you. As a comrade and a dear friend....But I can understand if the weight of what I've just said makes me disgusting in your eyes. Lord only knows I deserve it, for all the sins I committed."

Kaitrin sat there silent and still as Hemmingway sat across from her and began to speak. For the first time, he actually seemed uncertain, as if he was unsure of an outcome and fearing the worst. It wasn't like him and that made her insides turn cold as they twisted into knots. She let her blue eyes settle on his face as he removed his jacket, her gaze then shifting toward his one arm. For a moment, she felt her breath escape her, a mild panic washing over her, but it left as soon as it had come.

Anselm's mark. It was clear as day and practically gleaming against his skin. Kaitrin just swallowed hard, remaining silent as Hemmingway spilled everything, right then and there, for her to hear. Her fingers had the urge to touch it, to truly see if the thing was real. But from the look on his face, the tone of his words...there was no mistaking it. It was real. But Hemm didn't stop there. He moved slightly and brought his other arm into view.

Gearhead.

Yes, Kaitrin knew that symbol well. It had been the Gearheads who'd destroyed her previous home when testing out one of their contraptions. She'd been lucky to survive, to make it to Hargard. So much death that day...so much loss. She took a deep breath as the memory consumed her. The incident had happened what seemed so long ago now. She'd been naive of the world back then, green around the gills. But she'd been offered sanctuary when she came upon Hargard and eventually became one of the highest contributors to the town.

Kaitrin's blue eyes had fluttered shut, her ears listening, while her mind and heart absorbed everything. Opening her eyes, she saw that Hemm was no longer looking at her, his eyes fixed on the table separating them. This uncertain and seemingly frightened person sitting there wasn't the man she knew or had loved for so long.

No. Hemm wasn't afraid of anything! Not ever. So why was talking to her about this bringing such emotion to the forefront? She could only hope, only dream.

Kaitrin let her hands inch closer to him then. Her fingers almost able to touch his. Hemm looked up at her then, his gaze hard. Immediately, she felt her heart skip a beat, her breath catching slightly as she tried to find her voice. She studied him for several moments, her heart racing not with fear, but...

Then he said it. He didn't want to lose her as a 'friend'. Kaitrin felt like her heart was being torn out, though it changed nothing in how she felt. Didn't he know just how deeply her feelings went? Didn't he know that he could've also been a Ghost and she'd still feel the same way? What was past was past and they were now in the 'here and now'. None of the things he'd been a part of or done mattered. How could it? Hemmingway was the man people looked up to, turned to. He was the man who looked out for others, who risked himself for you. He was the man you could trust.

Always.

Kaitrin bit down on her lower lip for a moment and let her hands finally reach out and touch him. She looked directly into Hemm's eyes. "You really think that'll scare me away?" she asked, her voice soft, almost faltering. She shook her head from side to side, raven hair swishing with the movement. Then, she smiled as her eyes teared up. "Hemm," she went on. "I...I could never stop loving you."

She'd said it, exposing everything. Never had Kaitrin felt so vulnerable as she did just then. She loved Hemm even more for trusting her with something so dark and painful. Something that most probably wouldn't understand. This information could cause a stir, potentially destroy his reputation in Hargard as both a citizen and Caravan Boss.

"It's done," Kaitrin added, her hands finding their way to his. The contact made her shiver, the electricity of his touch making her warm. "Hemm, the only sin I can't forgive is that you left me behind." Her fingers boldly entwined with his. At that point, what did it matter? She'd already told him her feelings, her desires. "I get why you did, but," she smiled then. "I don't have to like it." She gave his hand a squeeze. "You'll never lose me, Hemm. Never."

Hemm waited with baited breath as Kaitrin appeared to have some difficulty taking it all in; little did he realize he was partially wrong in this, not knowing how far her feelings for him reached. And truth be told, he'd felt kind of the same about her, but didn't want to have her targeted because she was someone considered 'with him'. Still...Would it hurt to try? Who knew much longer they had, and there was that old saying about regret leaving things left undone. His eyes softened a little as she tried to talk, her mouth trying to form words but not...

And then came a suprising revelation. Well, it wouldn't be so surprising if he'd remembered this was Kaitrin. The woman that looked at things objectively, that could let certain things slide. This, however, this should have been a dealbreaker with her; though if he were honest, he was extremely relieved to see that she wasn't going to hold it against him. Hell, she even said the only unforgivable thing he'd done was leave her behind. Good intentions or not. At this, Hemm's face twisted into a light smile, before long chuckles erupting out for a moment or two before being stifled, the waves of relief forcing the jubilation out of him.

Of course, Hemm just realized how rude this was and tried to clarify, keeping his hands held to her own as he looked directly at the raven-haired beauty before him, "Sorry, Kaitrin....But hearing you say that. Made me feel like a weight was lifted off my shoulders....One that I was carrying for years, apparently. Oh jeez, did I mention how relieved I feel?" Of course, he was entirely serious about this...And now it was time for his own question. One that would probably border on ridiculous, but he never liked operating on uncertainty.

Even if the answer should have been obvious, and Hemm had a feeling she looked to him as more than a friend, but it never hurt to be sure. How this would go....Well, she didn't seem to his being both an Enforcer and a Gearhead hard in the slightest. For what he was about to ask though, it was a whole other ball game.

"Kait...." the Boss then said, holding her hands a little tighter, feeling the relative chill of her own in his warmth, "What I'm about to ask you is probably going to be the dumbest question of the century. Please just bear with me and be honest; even I can be slow on the uptake at times." His mouth suddenly went dry, his throat visibly swallowing as his head bowed and his tongue tried to moisturize his lips. "Kait, when you look at me...What do you think of me? Just what am I to you?"

At first, Kaitrin wasn't sure how to react. One moment Hemm seemed as though he was ready to face defeat, the next he was laughing. Was he laughing at her? Her brows furrowed slightly, while her heart raced. She hoped he wasn't. As the thought entered her mind, her face began to flush a light tinge of pink. She could feel the blood rushing to her cheeks, pounding in her ears. She bit down on her lower lip just then, Hemm suddenly holding her hands a bit tighter. Looking up into his face, her insides melted a little as her pale eyes settled on that grin.

Kaitrin had always loved Hemm's smile. It was a pity he didn't smile more. Then again, he had a lot of responsibilities, not to mention a past he was fearful of sharing with anyone. Yet, he'd just done so with her. It meant a lot that he trusted her, that he'd be willing to share such secrets...with her. Her cheeks burned a little more as she found her thoughts dwelling on how she wished he'd share everything. Meaning, she wished he'd share his heart. But, she knew that wasn't always an easy thing. Not when everyone depended on you. Like him, she knew what it was like to have to be the responsible one, the one others could rely on. She had to grow up fast when her home had been destroyed all those years ago. And it continued on, as she kept an eye on Cora, making sure she didn't let herself get carried away. Hell, she even watched out for Cissa, though the blonde would deny it.

Suddenly, Kaitrin's eyes went wide. Hemm asked her the one question she'd hoped he'd already known the answer to. Maybe this was his way of clearing the air, wiping the slate clean. Or, maybe...just maybe...he wanted to hear her say it. She squirmed a little under his gaze, her tummy fluttering as the fear of rejection became so very real. But she forced herself to look up at him. It had always come easy, talking with him, looking his way. But things were about to take a turn, at least on her part. Before, she'd always been able to hide behind the strong façade she liked to give off to everyone. But deep inside, Hemm had always made her feel vulnerable and like she wanted to strive for more. It was something she liked about the Boss. He always had a way of making her feel like she had potential, like she could somehow shine so long as she always tried. And how she always wanted to try for him. Right then, as he asked her to expose herself just a bit more, she knew the only thing left now was opening her heart for him to see. She felt scared in that moment. But hadn't he when he told her of his past?

"I..." Kaitrin began before pursing her lips slightly. "Hemm, I don't think words can..." She paused a moment, embarrassment taking its hold. This would change everything. She knew deep down that it would forever. "Can truly explain it. You...you're my Boss, my friend, my..." Her face felt hot and her hands trembled in his. "I've never been so scared to say something before," she then admitted, her lips quirking into a sheepish grin. "You're everything to me, Hemm. You have been for a long time."

At that, Kaitrin couldn't hold Hemm's gaze any longer. She looked away, turning her head as she stared at the floor.

"I...I don't expect anything," Kaitrin continued. How could she? But she couldn't help but hope that this cruel world she found herself living in would smile upon her if only just a little bit. "But I've never cared for another like I do you. I've never felt anything like this before. I know it's big. I mean, I'm sure I love you. And you probably don't need this right now and...what was I saying?" she asked, rambling as nervousness tried to consume her whole. Mortified, terrified, she dared to turn her head, to look up at him, to focus on that smile that had tugged at her since the beginning, a smile that always out her at ease. But she'd said it, there was no hiding anything now. Though, honestly, she didn't want it any other way.

Hemm's patience didn't falter in the slightest, even as Kaitrin struggled to maintain eye contact; it couldn't have been easy on her, having to bare her soul like this. It sure as hell wasn't easy for him to do, and he trusted Kaitrin more than anyone. More than even the Mayor himself; maybe it was because she was always so stern, looking out for everyone and being the rock in this chaotic river they knew as the world. Or maybe it was because she and he had fantastic chemistry as parnters; unless it was a dire emergency for her to be somewhere else, she was always his number two on runs.

And it was those very traits that had caught his eye, something that made her very attractive to him.

And when she finally opened herself up, he was more surprised than he thought he would be; her feelings went that deep? How the hell was he even supposed to respond now? He didn't want to crush her, especially since the young woman made herself so vulnerable like this. But...He decided to ask the question to himself: What was she to him? How did he really feel about her? It was true that he felt a strong bond, one more so than with any other....But was it love?

And this is why feelings are so damn hard, Hemm, the Boss thought to himself. But...It was better to go with honesty. He just hoped that he didn't make himself out as an ass for this. To be fair however, being blunt was sometimes the better approach and he felt this was one of them.

"Kait...Thank you. Seriously..." he started off, squeezing her hand gently. "And truth be told...I feel a deep connection between us as well...But is it love? I suppose I need to ask myself that very question too" he then continued, trailing off as he tried to consider his next words. Whether they would sound cheesy or half-assed, she would have to interpret for herself. His brow furrowed and his gaze lowered in concentration, his hands never letting go of hers.

And finally after a few moments of silence, he then looked up at her and finalized, "And honestly....It's not a question I'm all that patient in finding the answer. I hate working with uncertainty, as you know...So if you'll let me, I want to see how far my own feelings for you go. To see how far we can take things and discover how strong and deep the bond between us really is."

To any other woman, Kaitrin knew hearing such words would be a blow to the ego, enough to make her run away wailing and sobbing. But not her. She understood, without a doubt, how this man was thinking. His thoughts, his questions...they had been the very ones she'd asked herself over and over before she came to grips with it and admitted her feelings to herself. But it became more than apparent every day and in how she always seemed to know the moments he needed her most. And she could never deny the odd connection, that strange ability, where she sensed him. A small chill ran along her spine just then, cause her body to shudder slightly. The feelings were strong. The connection, a bond unlike any other. She smiled just then, her pale eyes meeting his.

"I'd like that," Kaitrin answered, her cheeks still burning as the blood coursed violently in her veins. "I'd explore anything with you." She inwardly winced at how she sounded. Both Cora and Cissa would probably shake their heads in amusement. She was the strong one, the one who could weather any storm.

But wasn't that what this was? Emotions, feelings...they were ferocious and unyielding, wild things beyond anyone's control. And Kaitrin was ready to face them. She'd survived the first round of self admission and now the second by baring her soul. More than anything, she was ready for the next one since it meant Hemm would be there while she went on this journey.

Kaitrin took in the feeling of Hemm's hands holding onto hers, his warmth, his strength. She gave them a squeeze and bit down on her lower lip for a moment. "I'm sure we'll find the right answers for us both," she said, her tummy fluttering as she held onto that tiny flicker of hope. As she looked deeply into his eyes, she knew exactly what she longed for. And it had been something she'd denied over and over until she realized she was being as ass, as well as a hypocrite, for lying to herself. It felt strangely good to have spoken everything aloud, to have it out in the open. The best part was that Hemm wasn't running. He was wanting to explore, to weather the same storms she had. It was enough. It was all she could ask of him.

Meanwhile, back at the shop, Cissa had left Cora to her own devices. The brunette lied down on her bed, dark eyes staring at the ceiling above. She let out an exasperated sigh, while her tiny hands were clenched into fists. Yes, she was elated that the Boss was back. It meant that Kaitrin would be back to her usual self. It had bothered her to see her friend, the girl who was like a big sister to her, to be so utterly distraught. She'd been battling with her emotions. Despite Cissa's thoughts on the matter, she hadn't been oblivious to that. But the worry she'd felt had been astronomical. She wasn't used to seeing Kaitrin get like that. Then again...

Cora frowned in the darkness. Visions of Ivan popped into her head, but they always faded and she found herself thinking on Vishnu. There had to be a reason he was so prickly. It couldn't just be something inherent in his programming. It...it seemed illogical. Just how old was he? What had he seen to make him hate so many things, to have zero faith in anything or anyone. It ate away at her mind, twisting her heart as it tried to beat within her chest. She doubted Vishnu would ever let anyone in, least of all her. After all, to him she was a mere child, a foolish girl with a nonsensical dream. To him, she was an annoyance, something obnoxious not worthy of his time. She felt her eyes suddenly sting.

Why did it matter? It was a question she'd been asking herself ever since she'd landed some jail time. Why did it matter?

But it did.

Turning onto her side, Cora stared at the wall. In vain, she closed her eyes and hoped for sleep, knowing full well just what voice she'd hear against her ear the moment she escaped into dreamland. And the voice would not be Ivan's.

LOCATION: UNKNOWN
PRIORITY: CRITICAL
MISSION: LOCATE AND SECURE WEAPON DESIGNATION "KING'S HAMMER". ASSETS EN ROUTE TO AREA DESIGNATION "HAGGARDSVILLE"

Rickertt couldn't believe his luck, or turn of luck, as it were. To think the King would give him such a mission, it meant that maybe he could move out of that hovel on the Outskirts and finally land a place inside Capital City. If he managed to succeed here, he would definitely get quite a comfortable living. The King had promised a heft reward if they were able to find this 'Haggardsville', recover the weapon and deliver it to him. Something he was all too eager to do....Except now he had a - somewhat unlikely - traveling companion.

"Alright, River...Remember that we're here looking for some random ass town in this backwoods area." he then told the person sitting next to him in the finely-polished buggy; the two of them were alone, something to help them move with greater stealth and less likely be noticed. The new buggy he was driving was more like an Old World Jeep, outfitted with several racks for diesel canisters and retrofitted for the bumpy terrain and long distance. Something he was grateful as the 'road' was less than kind to them, the vehicle jolting as it struck every rock, crack and sandy knoll. They had to stop several times to check out locations this town could be in; of course, none of them had turned up anything at all. It was always either some kind of empty cave or barren stretch of land.

And to make it worse, no one else had heard of the town. So a select few crews were sent out just like him to the farthest reaches of the Wastes, looking for the town that captured members of the Resistance had told them this 'weapon' was sent to. But what if it was a ruse? That was what got him thinking; he wasn't usually the smartest, but something had him thinking that they were deliberately misleading them. Still, the prospect of such a large bounty made him think the risk was worth it. And of course *she* just begged to come along in her own way.

"How the hell are we supposed to find this place though? We've been out here for days!" Rickerrtt then grumbled, his hands clenching the steering wheel rather hard. Of course...He'd been driving and focusing so much that it was kind of starting to get to him. He just wanted to take a quick break. Get out of this damn car, maybe find an oasis or something and cool off. "Heat's freaking unbearable out here" he then muttered, pulling at the collar of his thick white robe.

*The Wastes*

Backwoods area. Was he fucking kidding? Rickertt was a good fuck. Damn near the best she'd ever had. He was also rather savvy when push came to shove, but dear god! Really? They weren't anywhere near signs of life! Goddammit, why did Rickertt have to insinuate trees and woods as if they were common place outside the Capital City? Was he blind or just stupid? Perhaps she gave him more credit than he deserved. They were smack dab in the middle of rocky desert with no oasis in sight! The idiot! As River glanced around, she had to admit that it was a wonder that any of the towns, which had popped up so far out in the Wastes had survived for so long. Hell, it was a wonder that any of them still thrived. Period. Yet somehow they did. But Rickertt was going about things all wrong since the beginning of their mission. The brute had his strengths, but he also had his weaknesses. She rolled her eyes as she thought on how he all but stormed into these Podunk places, standing out like a sore thumb as he tried to gather information. There were far better ways to finesse such things out of someone.

Better, easier and pleasurable.

River placed a hand on Rickertt's thigh and squeezed. Slowly, she let her palm slide along his leg until her fingers brushed against that magnificent gift between his legs. She let out a sigh as she pulled her hand away and reached for the hem of her tank and peeled it off her body. She was sticky with sweat, glistening beads trickling down her pale skin. She tossed the top into the back seat, a thin bra covering up very little. She'd gone with a cup size smaller than she needed. A tactic she knew would distract the big guy. He was a sucker for those mounds of flesh called breasts and she was more than aware at how appealing hers seemed to be to the opposite sex. It was why she flaunted them along with her other assets.

And people had told her that her looks would only take her so far.

River glanced Rickertt's way and smiled. She stretched her arms above her head and pulled her hair up into a sloppy knot. Dark tendrils stuck to the sides of her face, a glittering sheen of sweat covering her forehead, neck and chest. "Mmm," she agreed, trying not to roll her eyes.

It was such a waste. No personality, but the greatest fuck buddy she'd ever been with. Yeah. She'd miss him.

Sorta.

River stretched her legs and placed her hand back on Rickertt's thigh. Slowly, she let her fingers work the taut muscle, inching up little by little, an agonizingly slow progression. She had to remind herself that this mission was worth it and soon she'd be the prettiest sittin' scavenger within 100 miles in any direction of Capital City.

And she wasn't referring to her looks. Oh no. Not at all. Though she knew what most men saw when their eyes drifted her way. And why not use that to gain advantage?

"You need a break," River went on, her hand dangerously close to the one thing Rickertt knew how to use. She reached her other arm over and touched his arm. "See there?" she stated rather and asked, her one hand gently kneading his bicep. "Look at how tense you are."

At that, River shifted in her seat. She knelt beside him and let her hands begin to work his muscles. A small smile played on her lips as she tried to get the scavenger to relax. Her hand on his thigh moved ever upward until her fingers were at the zipper. Without hesitation, not so much as a flinch, she undid them and let her hand seek him out. Her fingers were gentle as she wrapped them about his length, carefully freeing him from the confines of his pants. Her eyes moved to his face and she bit down on her lower lip. A part of her expected him to play his usual game, making her work all the harder for something she knew he wanted to give. Hell, she knew damned well just how weak he was when it came to anything she was willing to offer. Then again, the head he thought with when it came to her was indeed fantastic.

"Better?" River teased, her fingers stroking him slowly, steadily. She leaned down, her near fully exposed breasts brushing against him as she moved. She could feel her hunting knife biting into her flesh as her body shifted, the large blade secured to her hip just in case they encountered anything...nasty.

River didn't stop there. She leaned ever down until her lips brushed against him, her tongue snaking out and swirling about the tip of his now free cock. Slowly, she brought him into her warm, wet mouth, her head beginning to rhythmically bob up and down along his shaft. She took care to let her tongue rub along the sensitive underside, her one hand now seeking to free him further. Slurping, sucking, she had plans to get the guy not just relaxed, but completely unable to think.

Rickertt continued to drive, ignoring her scornful glare that he felt her giving him; honestly, she was like that mosquito that buzzed around no matter how much one might swat it away. Of course, it wasn't exactly blood this insect drank...But the analogy worked in his mind. He knew she was a a schemer, hell, he was surprised she hadn't tried to take him out yet. Of course, he'd been overly cautious and rarely left himself open. Until a woman might choose to exploit his weakness, few that he had.

The ones that existed, however, could present a veritable trove of opportunity, and all it would was one smart enough to recognize the window. Rickertt's breath hitched as he felt his partner's hand start to wander, a slight jerk of the wheel making him snap out of it. "Hey, easy, you idiot! You want me to kill us both?" he hissed, more aroused than pissed; damn it, she was really too good at that. And even worse when he felt something warm and wet envelop it, creating a very nice sucking sensation that caused surges of pleasure to rush up his length, the meaty shaft throbbing in her mouth.

"Damn it...River, you just don't know when to quit, do you?" he growled huskily, not really angry at her but more at himself; a little break couldn't hurt, right? Besides, with how she was teasing him there was no way he was going to be able to focus on driving. Pulling over to a shady overcrop, the shadow gave the pair a welcome reprieve from the heat...But it wasn't just the sun that was making the scavengers hot.

"Since you seem to want it...so damn bad, here" he grumbled, snapping her bra free to let her heavy tits free before manhandling her so that she was now kneeling in front of him, the globes of flesh sitting in his lap with the turgid length sandwiched between them. Already, he was beginning to make her give him a titfuck, his rough hands clasping over the stiff peaks at their summits and tweaking them. "All you do is tease me...And it's your damn fault for looking like this. How can I get anything done with you around, eh?" he then shouted, fingers gripping her breasts harshly as his hips thrusted harder, feeling her mouth being forced on the thick tip of cock, grip shifting to make her swallow more of his length while keeping her chest around his dick.

"Once I finish here, you're going to regret...working me up like this" he panted harshly fucking her tits harder and harder as the urge to release grew near unbearable. "I'll pump that pussy so full of cum you'll leak for months. Hell, maybe I'll even try to knock you up since you seem to love this so damn much" And with a mighty push, he forced her head down as far as she would go, thick ropes of sticky cum erupting inside her and filling her mouth before the excess started to ooze out, covering the tops of her heavy breasts with a thick layer of seed. And as his first climax settled, he just grinned evilly down at her, "Now...You want to keep going right? Besides, I'm so backed up that we probably won't be leaving this spot for a while, so don't think I'm satisfied with just once."

Yes. This was what she wanted...no, this was what she needed. As River sucked off Rickertt, she knew damned well the guy was loving every moment of it. She didn't miss the way his calloused hands gripped her breasts, squeezing the fleshy mounds until the point of pain. She'd wear the marks proudly, a reminder of a great fuck and her greatest triumph. Rickertt yanked her down harder, his thick shaft slick against her skin as he fucked both her tits and her mouth. A primal urge to kneel before him grew to almost unbearable, but she had to keep her wits about her, not lose focus on the end goal. So much was at stake and she couldn't lose hold of the grasp she had on a future that could be sealed with the mere flick of razor's edge.

"Mmm...mmm..." River whimpered as Rickertt plunged his hefty cock deep within the warmth of her mouth. He was hard and determined, thrusting deeper with each movement of his hips. Saliva began to drip down her chin as he pumped faster, growling his release as he spurted hot cum into her mouth and all over her breasts.

River could feel her own desires growing as Rickertt promised to fuck her hard. God, she wanted him to claim her cunt and make her scream like he always did. A tiny thrill ran along her spine at the memory of how many articles of clothing the brute shredded. On this trip alone, she'd lost another bra. Not that she minded.

"You better not be done," River panted as she swallowed down the hot, sticky seed that had filled her mouth. Her cunt was seething, pleading to be stretched and filled. The tiny nub between her legs was throbbing, a bittersweet agony as she imagined Rickertt's hands on her hips, her breasts...everywhere...as he roared out to everyone, while he claimed her body. She was only too willing to give it when it meant having such pleasurable sensations wracking her wanting body. "My pussy's craving cock, Rickertt," she went on, almost breathless. "Your cock." She bit down on her lower lip, a hand dipping down to loosen her pants. "I want you to fuck me good." She let her tongue lap as his still hard cock. "Fuck me like you mean it, like you own my pussy. Fill me up 'til all I feel is your cum dripping down my thighs!"

A tiny cry bubbled up as River squished her tits together about Rickertt's cock, skin on skin, as she relished the way he slid against her slicked up skin. Eyes watery from exertion, she looked up at the scavenger. The sun was bright behind him, hiding him in strange shadows that only made his already large form appear that much more ominous, that much more desirable. She bit down on her lower lip, a coy smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. Without even trying, a look of desperation crossed her face.

Yes. She wanted this and all because she needed it.

Rickertt let out a throaty chuckle as she gave in to her urges; that was the River he knew. Well, if he had his way she'd have her pussy stuffed until she was carrying his kid and she leaked for days on end. And given that she didn't seem to *particularly* object to that notion, maybe he would just go ahead and do that for her. Since she was so nicely offering herself to him and all, a feeling amplified by the desperate look on her face.

"Well, well...Since you asked so nicely, how can I say no to such a naughtly face?" he teased, using his strong body to work her out of her clothes; soon enough, her pants and underwear were tossed into the back untorn with her top, her huge chest crushed against him as his thick cock rubbed against the swollen lips of her womanhood, River seated in his lap facing him. He could feel her hard nipples on his skin as he slowly ground his length against her, feelinh the heat of her thighs on his hips.

"And don't worry, you'll have that tight pussy so full of cum all you'll want is for me to fill it when it gets empty." he then growled lustfully, pushing their sexes closer together before helping to lift her up, hands gripping her ample rear forcefully as he pressed his swollen tip against her entrance. "Just know..." he panted, growing more and more impatient as he continued to deny them both pleasure, "That I don't plan on pulling out, but don't worry...I'll help with the kid when I knock you up." And with that, he thrust inside her in one swoop, forcing her pussy to swallow his length entirely as he bottomed out in her, heavy swollen balls hanging with more cum to pump inside her.

And if that wasn't enough, he was already starting to bounce her in his lap, their hips meeting with sloppy smack as he worked them into a fierce tempo. He held her close, whispering in her ear, "Just as tight as always...Damn it, River, the things you do to me. This is, igh, all your fault, you realize that, dont you?" A growl left his lips as started to pound harder and harder into her, his lips coming up to snatch one of the twin firm brown peaks on her tits and suck harshly on it.

River's dark eyes went wide for a moment at the thought of carrying not just any child, a scavenger's child. Rickertt's child. The idea was so ludicrous and wrong that it made her skin tingle with every touch of the man's calloused fingers. Though she knew it shouldn't, the thought secretly thrilled her. Pity if the guy actually succeeded he'd never get to meet the little tike.

Or, so she planned. If things didn't fuck up.

River threw back her head, nerves raw and firing, as Rickertt sucked on her tits, his mouth masterfully working her nipples until they stood as hardened peaks, begging for more of his glorious attention. A soft groan left her lips, her hips moving in time with his as he bounced her body against him fast and hard. Dear god, this man was good!

"Fuck," River barely managed to spit out. "Ri-Rickertt..." She looked back at him, her hands digging into the flesh of his shoulders as they moved. Her thighs spread a little wider as she reveled in his thickness stuffing her full. His meaty balls hung heavy and ready, her ass slapping against them with each downward thrust as he pulled her close and escalated her ride. It was ecstasy and it was getting harder to remember exactly why she'd planned on being present for this stupid trip in the first place. Her mind flitted to the knife still attached to her pants, the guns secertly stored in various hidden compartments within the vehicle. Then there was Rickertt himself. The guy was armed and was a weapon himself.

No. No. This was not going to be easy.

"Nngg...mmfff..." River couldn't help it. Her body betrayed her mind as it gave in to all the pleasure that Rickertt had to offer. He was buried balls deep inside her warm wet folds. Her juices dripping as the burn rose from within. It wouldn't be long. That bastard was too good! Her grip tightened, nails drawing blood—a small satisfaction—as tiny cries of pleasure spilled out of her mouth.

Where was her knife again? Once more, River let her head loll backwards, she saw the shiny blade barely an arm's reach away. Somehow, she'd have to get Rickertt out of the vehicle. It was the only way. Take him by surprise. Leave a mark that he'd remember until his final breath and make sure he had no way if returning. They were isolated out in the wastes. It was you against everything. Even a small wound would be fatal if left with nothing since it would draw the worst of predators from miles away. She wasn't stupid. Rickertt was stronger. Faster. Surprise was her only ally.

This needed to work.

"Oh god!" River suddenly cried as a rip of pleasure tore through her body, thighs trembling, body shaking. She wanted to enjoy this last moment, this last experience. But she needed to get her mind back into the game. Soon, it would be now or never.

And never just wasn't an option.