Ben, Tom, & Pack

By the time the truck pulled up to the cabin house, the temperature gadge was getting dangerously towards the red. But they had made it at least, and there was always plenty of coolant fluid and other such vehicle necessities at Ethan's place. The man sure could fix things. Ben got out and picked up Aralyn once more and carried her inside, with a hesitant Tom following. "I think my idea was better, Ben... kidnapping won't sit well with this kind of town...."

The yougner man laid Aralyn down on the livingroom couch as he took hold of her wrist to assess her pulse again. "It's not kidnapping." Ben contradicted coolly, "There was no way we could have made it back to town with a busted radiator like that." Both he and Tom knew that was a lie, for Ethan's house was farther away from the Prairie than the town was. "In the meantime, we will find out who she is and wait until we can contact someone to help us."

Tom understood what was going on now. Mentally rolling his eyes at Ben's plan, he headed out of the cabin to contact Ethan.

Ben knelt down beside the couch, watching Aralyn's movements again to determine what action needed to be taken as far as treating what injuries she may have. By now, he knew there were broken ribs. "I'm sure you know my name now; but what is yours? Malon? Angel? Aralyn?" He questioned, rattling off some of the names he had heard her say earlier.

Aralyn

It hadn't been being picked up that had hurt, but the car ride here. As she was laid on the couch her eyes fluttered open and although still glazed with pain and terror, she assessed where she was. "Angel....No. Not....Not Angel anymore. Aralyn." Since coming to the valley, her name had changed. "Malon....Gone. Psyche....Where?" She was speaking of her horse, but the man would not know that. Shock filled eyes caught to Bens and she said "All....All I had. Failed...Again. Always fail."

Ben & Tom

His eyes narrowed in concentration as he listened, and yet again, he failed to understand where these words stemmed from. Obviously something bad in her past, but what? The intrigue grew in his mind while his facade remained just the same as before, his emotions very easily controlled. "Arayln, is it? You'll be safe here." He replied, still working things over in his mind, and deciding at last to go through with his plans. "I'm afraid you'll have to stay here a while though, Aralyn. At least until you're better, and the weather clears up." He seemed genuinely honest. He had honed his lying skills to perfection.

Tom returned, "Blasted mountains, can't get any reception out here. Looks like..." For the umpteenth time, his sentence was interrupted.

"Prepare the guest room, and make sure the animals are tended to before the storm hits." Ben ordered without so much as a glance to the older man. His attention was still focused squarely on Aralyn, seceretly awaiting her reaction to the things that had been said. He wanted to know more about what she was speaking about, about the names she had given, and what friends or family she had nearby. All of this he needed, but he didn't want her to know that. The last thing he needed was for her to get suspicious of him.

Aralyn

"NO!" She said suddenly. She went to sit up but pain shot through her body. A sharp curse escaped her pretty little mouth and she hissed "Conan. Can't stay. Can't...Can't leave Conan alone. Inferno...Inferno will get him. Doesn't...Doesn't trust anyone but me." She remained sitting however it was costing her. Her breathing grew even shallower, fainter. "Please....Woodland F...Farm....They...They know me. Conan and...Lady." She had never found out the kind old womans name. It had always been "The Lady" To her. Tears sprang to her eyes. Why hadn't she asked? Where was she? So many questions raced through her exausted mind and through sheer will power, she stayed up right. "Need...Need to find...Malon. Dog....Shepherd. Seen...Have...Seen him?" Even broken, the teenager was more worried about her dog then herself.

Ben, Tom, & Harthrou

He was quite for a moment, debating things in his head. What lies should he feed to her? "I'm sorry, but you won't be leaving for a few days at least... maybe longer." A faint smile crossed his mouth, which was intended to be sympathetic, but there was something behind it that didn't seem right. He knew of the woodland farm, though he hadn't actually been there. One question seemed to be answered- Malon was a dog. That was good, for all the names she had listed off he figured were important to her, and a dog couldn't tell the authorities that she had been taken by him. But.... there were still a few other names that needed to be clarified.

"Unfortunately, you damaged my truck pretty bad with your riffle, and we couldn't make it back to town. We're in the backcountry of the White River Mountain Range, many miles from the nearest help. A bad storm is coming to make things worse." There was a hint of truth in what he said; they were far back in the mountains, and not many knew about the cabin except those that worked for Ben. It was very rugged terrain and difficult to navigate, especially now that winter was setting in.

"Who is Conan? And the other names you are speaking of?" She seemed to be on the verge of passing out, and he could only hope that it was from shock, and not from internal blood loss. In that were the case, there wasn't much he could do anyway. But while she were still conscious, he would try to get as many answers from her as he could.

Outside, a mixbreed horse paced near the porch. He was the only equine allowed to roam free, and he generally didn't go far without Ethan. He was smart, and knew that a human and a gun were a great asset to have when venturing out in a wolf-infested valley. While Ethan was away, Harthrou decided to press his velvety-soft muzzle against the window and peer in at the strange girl.

Aralyn

Her gaze drifted and she caught sight of the horse. She blinked and a soft smile spread across her face. "Letana." As Ben spoke she said "Conan...Is like my brother. He came to us. Never knew where he was from, he doesn't talk about his old life. I don't ask." She continued to stare at the horse and said "Can he be ridden? Hes quite beautiful." Her voice was still hoarse and ragged but none the less calm and quite charming with its hint of irish accent. She was suspecting the man already, something didn't feel quite right. But she didnt mind for now. She added the accent on for effects, although her raven hair didn't help her with it. Hair dye, she could claim.

Ben, Tom, & Harthrou

Another one to check off the list; good. There was still the Lady and Psyche to address though. "And the lady; do you mean the owner of the Woodland Farm? Charlene." Ben said, having done some background work on several of the Valley's prominent residence. The old lady was somewhat reclusive, and most viewed her as a crazy old hermit. Only those that took time to be with her understood that she had a heart of gold and did all she could to help those less fortunate. It was the hostile reactions of the town's residence that forced her to spend most of her time away from them, except when she needed to get supplies. But now... Ben was getting of course.

"And what of Psyche. Is that a pet?" It didn't sound much of a human's name, though he understood that it could be a nickname for someone too. "Do you have and relatives or friends that we can contact... if we can get the phone to work?" Ben added, almost catching himself in his own lie.

Harthrou nudged at the glass, breathing out in a snort so that he fogged the window near his muzzle. Then he tossed his head and stamped his a hoof on the porch. His curved ears were directed forward, picking up on the conversation that was being held, though he understood none of it.

Tom was just walking into the room as Aralyn and Ben were speaking, "Oh, him? Only Ethan rides that monster. You'd have better luck with Tank than him!" He laughed, though the girl obviously wouldn't know who he was speaking of. "Anyway, I doubt you'll be riding anytime soon with that fall you took."

Aralyn

The same soft smile was spread across her lips. "So hes a dark Inferno. Pure power and devilment. Psyche is the horse that he shot." Her eyes suddenly grew very dangerous and a look of raw anger came across her mask. "You shot my horse!" It wasn't even a horse to her. Psyche was a friend. She had saved the mare when she was just a foal and had been saved countless times in turn.

Ben, Tom, & Harthrou

Harthrou tossed his head as Tom looked his way and pressed his ears back. He did not care for this man at all, especially when Ethan was not around to protect him from abuse. Although, the stallion was usually clever and quick enough to evade Tom. That, and Ben always put the older man in his place. Curiousity slated, Harth cantered from the porch and began to graze in the front yard, while occassionally looking to the window.

Ben hid his frustration when Aralyn ignored his answers, "Tom, go find Psyche and bring her back here before the storm comes in."

Tom didn't argue, for he could hear a flare of irritation rising in the other man's chilled voice. Going outside, he headed right for Harthrou.

The stallion wanted nothing to do with the man and flicked his tail up indignantly. Pinning his ears back further, it was a matter of jogging at an east pace to evade Tom's clumsy reach. After chasing the black horse a full circle around the cabin, the man gave up and resorted to disappearing around the back of the cabin.

Harth settled back into his grazing, pleased with his efforts.

"He'll take care of things. But tell me now, Aralyn, what family do you have in the Valley?" Ben persisted on the topic.

Aralyn

Her eyes went stone cold and she turned flaming orbs to the man. In a ice edged voice she said "Conan. But hes not even real family, just a friend. I don't want to speak about my family." For a moment she was lost in a memory, and she looked exactly like the child that she was.

"Angel, daddy's home. Why don't you go see him?" A ten year old Aralyn stood in the kitchen door way, a ragged old teddy bear clamped tightly at her side. "But..I don't want to mama. I wanna stay here." Her mothers brown eyes seemed to become livid. "Go see to your father, Angel!" A scared little girl ran away from her mother and into her greedy fathers arms. She knew....She knew what would happen tonight. Tears streamed down the young childs face as she watched her older sister walk calmly up the stairs, as if she knew nothing. The pretty one. Kodi never got treated like this, there were hopes for her. But not Angel, the black sheep in the family. Aralyn shivered in person as the memory continued. Her fathers hands stripping her, her mother calmly leaving the house. Her sister with the blaring radio. Her screams.....

"They're dead. All of them." Her voice was flat now, no emotion showing.

Ben & Harthrou

"We have something in common." He replied, his own eyes reflecting her cold chill like a mirrow, though there did seem to be a touch of sympathy in his voice. Now that it appeared Aralyn wasn't on the verge of death, Ben stood up and pulled a chair near to the couch to sit down. "I can give you some medicine for the pain. Are you hungry, thirsty?" The subject was switched now, even though he could see that his previous assumptions must be true. Her past was a dark one indeed, and he was very curious to find out more about it. But judging by her attitude now, he feared to push her too far by asking such questions.

Harthrou braced himself against a bone-chilling wind that sudden filtered in from the trees. The sky was getting a bit darker as dense clouds moved in, and he could almost smell the snow on the wind. But it did not bother him much yet. His body was like a little furnace, and he suffered more in the heat of summer than the chill of winter.

Aralyn

Her eyes drifted back to the window. "No, thank you." She wanted to sleep, but that was showing weakness. Her broken collar bone was screaming in agony and she would deal with it the only way she knew how. "I need bandages, and a bath tub full of hot water. As hot as it can go. Do you know where my pack is?" She had had it on at the prarie when she was riding, but she didn't know if it was maybe in the truck or forever lost at the prarie. She hoped not, it had medical supplies in there that were greatly needed at the moment.

Inferno

He made it through the storm to his current location through the wind he made out the main house and moved upon it. He was a mountain of a horse. Seeing the other male Inferno halted thorns laid back against his massive skull. Ah lets tap into Inferno's past a moment to show the kinda horse he was. He was born into a cruel world. He was an lab rat so to say. He didn't even remember what was pumped into him. But thanks to it he was taller then a normal mixed breed horse with twice as much muscle to back it up. He grew hard to handle and the lab didn't want him showing up dead so they sold him to a stallion fighter he grew more and more unruly having never lost a fight soon he ended up here were Aralyn bought him. She was the only one that won trust from the massive bruet. Th man on him was slowly winning him over but that wasn't cause he was on his back this was cause these men had taken Aralyn.

The albino hessian spoke with harsh and cruel words to the other male
Is Aralyn in there. Tell me the truth or you'll end up in an early grave.
He ment it every word of it. He shook his massive skull to rid his eyes of his threads voids never leaving the male horse while his sonars moved about to catch any sounds through the storm that might be dangerous.

Conan

The boy on the massive stallion's back Inferno's build. Tall and gangly, he was all legs and arms, freckles, and a shock of crimson hair. A loaded rifle was balanced on his hip as he darted eyes all around, looking about for Aralyn.

He came from a dark past of his own, a laughable reject from a broken family whose parents cursed his name in their prayers, and Aralyn was the only good family he had ever known. He was not a violent person, but the boy was willing to kill every person in the place that stood between him and Aralyn.

Ben & Harthrou

Harthrou watched the new male approach with mild interest at first, assuming this was Ethan's latest fighters being brought in. The mix breed, being three quarters Marwari and a quarter Karbarda, was not the fighting type in the least bit, and knew that he didn't have half the strength of most of the stallions kept here. But that was not why he was choosen above all others to be Ethan's steed.

"I don't know who this Arayln is, or why you would care to know. Your master ought to teach you some manners- I'm Ethan's favorite, after all." Harth had himself convinced that Inferno was a newly obtained fighter, for why else should he wind up here? "Before you get yourself into trouble, I'd cool your jets if I were you."

Ben raised an eyebrow to Aralyn's reply, "Making yourself quite at home, aren't you? Well that's good, because I wouldn't want for you to feel trapped, or anything." He said with a laugh as he stood up, his face straightening to a more serious tone, "I'm afraid we were in too much of a rush to notice your pack missing." Whether that be in truth or not, Ben passed by the couch and opened the first door along an adjescent hallway. Flipping on the lights, he nodded to her, "Help yourself, Aralyn. I'll see what clothes I can find for you. Shampoo and soap are in the drawer above the toilet; towels are in the cabnet. Now, if you'll excuse me for a moment..." He had seen something outside, partially shielded by some tall-standing junipers in the yard. Leaving Aralyn to start her bath, Ben headed outside.

The thirty-some year old man wasn't of tall stature, though one could say his size and frame was average. Short brown hair framed his head and pale blue eyes. His eyes, most would say, were his most striking feature. They weren't unique in color, but the emotions and authority they could reveal... and so well at concealing lies and forging false emotions. As he stepped outside, Ben doned a pair of reading glasses as he walked toward the stallions and Conan, "Can I help you with something?"

Conan

Conan was quite the actor himself, and no one, not even Aralyn, would have guessed at his skill with a gun. Still, he kept the weapon lowered, confident that he could raise and fire it before the man could should the man prove hostile. His voice was still cold though, as he spoke, slow and pausing to keep it from getting his accent, as it always did when he was angry. Where's - Aralyn?

Aralyn

She nodded and stood. As soon as the man was gone she leaned hard against the couch and took a few deep breaths, causing much pain but she felt as if she couldn't breathe. Wincing she began to walk slowly to the bathroom, using the wall as a crutch to lean on. As she drew her bath, she slowly slid out of her shirt and bra, whimpering in pain. Dropping them to the floor she took in the damage done. There were dark bruises along her collar bone and ribs, some on her thighs as well. Walking took much effort, strength she didn't have. She slipped into the bath and nearly cried out in pain. Even when alone, she wouldn't allow herself that simple of a pleasure.

She wasn't in the tub long, maybe ten minutes. The heat was getting to her. She climbed out and grabbed a towel then stood uncertainly for a moment. What now? All she had were her old clothes that were ripped in some places. She put them back on, moving slower then before. She felt so weak...She walked out of the bathroom and leaned hard against the wall as she began to move back to the couch. She collapsed onto it, stretched out her breathing low and uneven. It hurt to breathe....It hurt to speak. She wouldn't tell him....She had much pride. To much damn pride.

Ben & Harthrou

Harthrou perked his ears up and tossed his head once in an anxious gesture before stepping away from the group. He didn't go far though, and returned to his grazing to the edge of the front yard.

Ben took a moment to adjust his glasses as he tipped his head just a bit to the side. "Aralyn?" He repeated in a tone of confusion, "I'm sorry, you must be mistaken... this is my residence, and I know of no one named Aralyn." As the man spoke, he pretended to pay no heed to the riffle, though it was indeed on his mind. "If there's anything I can do, I'll surely help. I'm Benjamin, by the way..." He added, reaching a hand forward in a gesture to shake Conan's, if he offered a hand in return.

Conan

When the man moved to come forward, Conan raised his rifle quickly, letting the man know he meant business. His sight were settled on the man's right chest: a shot that would take him down, but not kill him. His voice was still cool and calm as he spoke, but his cold eyes never left the man. Don't bother to lie to me. I'm not dumb. Aralyn's pack, her gun, at the prarie, unattended, accompanied by a stench of coolant and the tire tracks that Inferno and I followed immediately here. And if you think I'm playing around with this gun you just try me. You tell me where Aralyn is. Now. He wasn't worried about people sneaking up on him: Inferno would be looking out for that, and would not let them get away with it.

Ben & Harthrou

Ben instantly withdrew his hand, taking a few steps back as the weapon was raised. "Woah now, there's no need for that..." He said, still speaking calmly, though his eyes were more trained on the riffle now, "Let me rephrase what I said earlier..." The man went on, thinking quick to cover his tracks. "I admit, there was a girl here, but she's been taken by a friend of mine to the hospital.... he just left about fifteen minutes ago on a backroad, trying to avoid the worst of the comming storm. I can show you which way, if you'd like..."

Inferno

Inferno eyed the stallion new hate glaring in his orbs.
My mistress was brought here but two men and I am asking you again brute where is she. I will tear you apart. I don't belong to no one other then Arayln got it.
This time as his male upon him shifted the gun pointed at the man Inferno shook his skull she was here he could feel it and he refused to more. He advanced upon the human male slowly a mere foot away he reared and kicked out hoping to hit him about the shoulder.
Again stag tell me if the female is here and don't lie if you do I'll be back to kill you.

Ben, Pickett, & Harthrou

He lifted his head, dark eyes glistening with irritation, "I don't take orders from any horse, esepcially a mongrel like you." Harth hissed out, watching Inferno's moves. "I wouldn't do that if I were you..."

Ben was more focused on the riffle at this point, and figured any sudden movements on his part might warrant unneccessary action from Conan. Now his eyes were wider, showing the hinting of fear as the large stallion moved in closer, yet still he could not predict what Inferno was going to do next.

The kick sent him to the ground. Scooting back several paces to avoid getting trampled, Ben gritted his teeth, "Ah, my shoulder... please, I don't know what this is all about! I told you what I know- she's probably at the hospital as we speak!" Wincing, the man stood up, now without his glasses as they had fallen off.

Pickett had been out back tending to the animals for Ethan, and was now coming back inside for some firecrackers. He'd show that wolf one way or another... biting his hand like that! As he headed towards the living room, the man stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Aralyn lying on the couch. For a moment he was speechless, then he gave a smug grin, "So you're the little lass those two brought back? What a pretty little thing you are!" He laughed, taking a step closer to the couch.

Conan

The red-haired teen's aim never wavered, following the man down and back up to focuss in the same place, though he could switch to the other man easily. His voice still held steel as he spoke. And why should I beleive that? Lie once, lie twice, what's the difference. Don't think you can pull one over on me. And he raised his voice, though his eyes never left the two men. Aralyn! Aralyn! He was hollering at the top of his lungs, waiting for her to answer.

Ben

He shook his head, as if trying to dispel Conan's doubt, "I'm sorry I-I didn't know who you were. For all I know, you could be some phycotic boyfriend..." Ben's gaze was once against trained to the riffle, "...I can take you to her though, if you'd just let me get my keys, I'll drive you to the hospital, storm or no storm..." He offered, his voice clearly betraying panic, although the panic itself was mostly for show.

Conan

He vaguely considered what the man was saying, but Inferno's hostility was was rooted him to his place, made him convinced. Whether the panic was convincing or not, Conan knew that Inferno would not have brought him here if Aralyn was not inside. Scowling, he cocked the rifle, only inches away from shooting this infuriating liar. Inferno says shes here, and so she is. End of story. You got one last chance, punk. Bring her here, or eat lead. And he took to calling her name again, eyes never leaving Ben.

Inferno

Inferno ignored Hart and when his attack landed he smirked and held his ground again. This time thorns were tight against his massive skull. His fighting side was showing and he was getting impatient. He half reared shakking his massive skull. She was here he could feel it.
Fool I'll kill you and who ever gets in my way. I;ve done it plenty of times and I won't hesitate to do it again. If you don't tell me where she is I'll kill him first.

Ben & Harthrou

Harth narrowed his eyes, "You can't touch me, mixbreed! And you'll be slain by bullets before you can kill him." The stallion snorted, arching his neck up. "Don't think Ben and I are the only ones out here."

He shied back a few steps as Inferno reared, until he came to the base of the porch steps. "I'm not sure who Inferno is, but they must be mistaken..." Ben replied, not recounting that name from the several that Aralyn had mentioned. "Lets be civil about this, alright? You're making a huge mistake when all I've ever done is help the girl... Now I just need to go inside and get the keys, if you'll allow...

Aralyn

She could hear someone....Someone speaking to her. She focused on his voice and her eyes drifted open. Seeing Pickett she smiled at him faintly. "Hi....I'm....Aralyn." Her breathing was still uneven and her face was ghostly pale but the color only made her look more hauntingly beautiful. "Are you a friend of Bens?" She asked, her voice whisper soft.

Ben & Pickett

Pickett instantly took note of Aralyn's condition, and knew she was in no shape to struggle against him. "Aralyn, is it? I'm Dan." Pickett replied, giving his first name, although he was better know by his last. He took a seat on the edge of the couch now, glancing once towards the window. At their angle, he could just see the top of Conan and Ben's heads. They could see him as well, but with Aralyn laying down, they couldn't see her unless they went right up to the window.

Ben stole his gaze from the riffle for just a split-second as he took time to look in the house. He was surprised to see Pickett in there, and quite quickly he realized what he was up to. Still, he couldn't blow his story, or he'd get shot for sure. "...I'm sorry I lied to you at first, but I hope you can understand my reasons." Ben rubbed his hands together gingerly, as his shoulder was still throbbing from the blow it took. "This can all be settled very quickly, if you'd just let lower your weapon, and let me get what I need..." The man took a bold move now, backing slowly up the steps of the porch, heading for the front door...

Aralyn

She smiled at Dan, but in no way was it warm. It was more brittle, but the girl could hardly breathe. Sharp pain....She ignored it. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Dan." She said softly to him. She could see it, that look in his eyes. That same one that her father had given her. Her eyes were cold, calculating as she said in a soft tone "Where is it that you come from?" She kept up her french accent, smooth, easy. She shifted slightly in her seat her hand reaching beneath her, as if to scratch her back. Really, she had a knife in her back pocket. Old habits were hard to break.

Inferno

I doubt it.
Bullets were one thing to tango with but Inferno would not go down without killing that brute now. As the man made a bold attempt for the door Inferno lunged forward his skull lowered for a blow to the chest to knock him down. He reared after hopefully knocking him down and as he crashed back down his hooves would come down with his body in the middle of them. Inferno lowered his massive skull to what he hoped was the man. As he thought to himself Look in my eyes human. I ain't afriad to kill you or anything. I'd relish in it.
This time he tossed his crown back into the air high enough he got a look into the window. He watched the man a moment then caught him glance down and his mouth moved that was enough for Inferno. He let out the shrillest call one fo anger and hate.
Whoever you are, horse. when we leave her with her I better now see you again or mark my words I'll see you dead for holding the truth from me your a mouse not a horse at all.

Conan

The boy wasn't kidding, and when the man moved toward the door he spoke softly. Wrong answer. Riding Inferno's rear carefully, he took careful aim And he squeezed the trigger, releasing a shot aimed for the man's shoulder, hoping against hope that Inferno would not panic. Still, he called. Aralyn! Aralyn!

Aralyn

She continued smiling at Dan until she heard the gun go off. She jumped and went to stand but immediatly sank back down taking the same shallow slow breaths. She couldn't walk....She was so weak. "What was that?" She murmered softly. She then heard Conan's voice. "Conan?" She said but it was barely higher said then before. She couldn't speak loud, just careful soft tones that wouldn't bring more pain to her.

Ben, Pickett, & Harthrou

Three quarters of the horse's veins ran strong with the blood of a war horse- a fleet-footed, nimble beast with superb smarts and hot attitude. He had let Ben get nailed once, and that was for his own satisfaction. But for the man to die... Harth wasn't going to let that happen if he could help it. When Inferno made for a deadly attack, Harthrou galloped foward, covering short ground in the blink of an eye. He could not match the other stallion's size or strength, but he reared up high and struck hard for the other's shoulder and neck, trying to give Ben a chance to get away.

Ben had gotten up the five steps of the porch and just bearly missed Inferno's rush as Harth came forward to attack. As he turned to grab the handle of the front door, Conan fired. He may be able to dodge a horse, but dodging a bullet... that was something else. A gasping cry was released when the piece of medal tore through it's intended spot, and continued on out to lodge into the side of the cabin. With tremendous effort, Ben swung the door open and collapsed inside.

About the time that all of this was going, Dan had inched closer to Aralyn, reaching out a hand to take a hold of her's, whether she wanted him to or not. "My story is boring... where is it that you come from, Aralyn?" He asked, ignoring all the shouting that was going on outside, assuming that Ben and Tom could handle it. It wasn't often that Pickett was given a gun, for he was a crack-shot, to say the least. Then there was a shot, and Ben came crashing through the door. Pickett looked like a deer caught in the headlights.

Ben rolled quickly to the side, giving a muffled whimper of sorts when pressure was put on his shoulder. But the movement had at least gotten him out of the doorway, and out of Conan's immediate range. Standing up with a hand over his bleeding shoulder, the men sucked in deep, raspy breaths as he fought to overcome shock. His wound wasn't fatal, but it hurt like none other. Leaning against a wall for just a moment, his blue eyes turned venemous in a heartbeat. Pushing off from the wall and leaving a smear of blood behind him, Ben stormed towards Pickett and threw him a hefty punch, hard enough to send the younger man off the couch and to the ground. "Thanks for the help!" The wounded man wasn't done yet though, and as Pickett was picking himself up off the ground, Ben delt him a jarring kick to the stomach that knocked the wind out of him, "And she's a teenager, Dan! Get a hold of yourself!" Ben gritted his teeth as pain seared around the bullet wound. Crimson red soaked into his shirt and muddied his other hand as he held it against the wound again. Sitting down harshly, feeling his energy slide away with shock, Ben looked to Aralyn, "You're friend's trying to kill me, I think..." He said, his tone and expressions seeming very flustered and exhausted at the same time. What an ordeal this had turned out to be...

Conan

Conan made a hop from Inferno's back as Hart charged for him, spraining an ankle badly as he landed not-so neatly on his feet. In all the excitement, the door had been left open, and he hurried to limp inside before the door could be shut. Probably not the brightest thing, but he was afraid for Aralyn and tired of being lied to.

Once there, he turned his back to the wall, gasping a little from exertion and pain, but still upright and ready.

He came to the door, angling his rifle in the door western style. He was just in time to hear Ben's comment to Aralyn. His voice was still soft and calm as he spoke, though he could not yet see Aralyn or the two men. I'm not in for killing anyone. If I had been I'd have got your heart instead of your shoulder. I can do it. But I'm not in for killing, if I can help it. I'm here for a friend, and don't try to tell me she isn't here. I don't appreciate being lied to. But make no mistake. If I have to kill to get her out of here alive, I will. And, just to punctuate it, he let a shot into the air, lodging the bullet in the ceiling before reaching to his belt and loading more ammo. Whenever you get ready you can tell me why you insist on hurting my sister, kidnapping her, and lying to me about it. And hurry up. I'm not patient.

Ben & Pickett

At the sight of the gun snaking past the door, Ben sits upright on the couch, tense as before. "Dan, go get Tom... hurry!" he hissed.

Pickett had gotten to his feet at last, glaring banefully at the man who decked him. But as with Tom, Pickett acted like a beaten puppy in the face of Ben. Offering no resistence to the commands, Pickett scrambled out of the room.

Ben continued to sit on the couch, a debate rushing through his mind- should he risk running for the basement and grabbing a gun? Or hope to ease all the tension and settle things without further gunfire? The warning shot made up his mind, and the man decided to just stay seated, lest he get shot again trying to run. "Now who's lying through their teeth? Aralyn has no brothers! And it's not me who's done the hurting around here." Ben challenged suddenly, a defiant tone coming to his voice, though it wavered with a touch of fear. As best as he could recall, Aralyn had told him her family was dead. Whether she was speaking metaphorically or literally, Ben now found himself in doubt of Conan's intentions.

He looked to Aralyn, his tone low and whipsering, "Do you know him? If you do..." Ben flashed a frightened look to the riffle that stuck ominously through the open door, "...you've got to convince him I've done nothing wrong."

Aralyn

"Conan...." Her voice was whisper soft, barely audible. She placed a hand on Bens good shoulder and used him as a crutch to stand. Her hand fisted into his shirt as the world seemed to whirl and tilt and she closed her eyes. "Conan....They...Didn't mean to. I...Was being....Stupid. No...No more. Put the...The gun...Down." She could barely here herself but she prayed that somehow he had heard her. She couldn't speak any louder, the pain in her chest and ribs was to intense. To intense to ignore any longer. "I...Think....We both...Need to...See a...Doctor." she said to Ben, a soft smile on her face, her eyes still closed.

Conan

Aralyn's voice finally reached him, and he relaxed visibly, though the gun was still there. He spoke softly to Ben. Blood is thicker than water, but there are things thicker than blood. Aralyn IS my sister, blood or no blood. He was trying not to let the pain from his ankle show on his face as he came forward into the room.

The pain that creased Aralyn's face made his heart twist, and he sighed and came forward, eyes still trained on Ben as he came to Aralyn's side, prepared to take her weight on the shoulder that wasn't holding the gun. He spoke softly to her, a little of the fear he had been hiding poking through, though only she would be able to see. Aralyn... do ya trust this man enough for me to put thi' gun down? And his eyes turned to include Ben, voice soft and much less cold, though still calm and collected. I do not want to kill you, Ben. I just want Aralyn back. If you will give me your word that you will let me take her home with me, then I will leave here without doing further harm. Swear to me on all you hold dear that you will not harm her.

He hoped that Ben could see the truth in his eyes. Really, Conan was usually a pacifist, as demonstrated by his shot to Ben's shoulder when he could have killed him. He hated hurting others, but Aralyn was all he had, and he would fight to get her back.

Ben

He remained seated as Aralyn got up, and braced himself for her lighter weight as she used him for support, "I don't think that's a good idea... you really should sit back down..." Ben adviced, seeing that she was in clearly bad shape. His eyes were intently on her, though not in the same way that Pickett's had been.

Benjamin was about to help try and get the girl to sit back down, but the Conan entered the house. Fear lit up again in the man's bright eyes and he dared not move. "You have my word, yeah." He said in a quick pace, as if there was little time to get Conan to believe him, "I'm one of the good guys." He repeated his phrase, referring to helping Aralyn and fending off Pickett, where others may not have done so. "Tell him, Aralyn, that it's alright to lower the gun..." Looking to Conan again, Ben's features mirrored the trust that the teen was showing. Whether it was an act or not was to be decided.

Inferno

Ebonite orbs rolled white as the other male dared to attack his shoulder. thing is Inferno didn't move. He let the attack hit the moved slowly as if he was hurt he looked to Hart then a smirk placed upon his lipids. Inferno might be huge musclar wise but he was also quick in his actions so as he had turned to face Hart that smirk was his warning and he thrwe himself into Hart aiming a ramming blow to the chest to knock the wind from the brute. He had heard the gun shots and knew Conan was in the house they had to get her out of there.
You'll pay that that, Hart.

Aralyn

She opened her eyes and focused them on Conan, keeping a hand on Ben for support. "Put it down Conan...No one else needs to be hurt." She sank to her knees then rested back a bit, taking quick short breaths. "Looks like we both need to go to the hospital, huh?" She said with a soft smile to Ben. "Just...Put the gun down." She could hear Inferno, she knew it was him. Psyche had been hurt..."Is Psyche ok?" She asked the boy. She didn't know where her mare had gone, back home or lost in the storm.

Conan

He closed his eyes for just a moment, listening to her voice all by itself with nothing to interfere. When she had finished speaking, he opened them again, and the tension seemed to flow out of him as he turned and lay the gun on the floor near the couch. That done, he turned to support Aralyn, saying softly, You oughta sit, Aralyn. Them ribs'll be broken, I'll lay money. No need ta put pressure on 'em. Come on have a seat. And he reach out an arm for her to lean on, hoping she would let him support her down onto the couch. I've your pack right here, maybe you can patch yourself up. His ankle was throbbing at this point, but he was doing his best to block it from his mind. There were more important things.

Ben & Harthrou

Ben's relief wasn't directly evident when Conan relented to putting the weapon down, but he was very glad for the action. By now, his breath was shaky and strained, as he tended to fall into shock easily. At least with so much pain pulsing through his shoulder. "I'm fine." Was all he said to dismiss Aralyn's suggestion of going to the hospital. Ben looked fleetingly towards the door, a glint of anxiety flashing across his strained face, as if waiting for something. Then he looked vaguely to Aralyn and Conan, finding their words somewhat distant and soft now, as if they were speaking from farther away. He knew that he was on the verge of blacking out, but as he was so good at manipulating emotions, Ben feigned an 'attentive' look as best as he could. He had to last just a bit longer, anyway.

Harthrou staggered back under the blow, nearly collapsing. A bit dazed from the collision, the stallion continued to back up, eyeing Inferno fiercely but not engaging him again. His task had been accomplished; Ben was safely inside. "What was that you said... you were going to kill us all?" Harth mocked, lashing his tail once, "How much you wanna bet that neither your Aralyn or your fire-haired human is going to be coming out?" Harth knew that it would only be a matter of time now before the other men came.

Inferno

White edged eyes watched the coward of a stallion slink away from him. As he spoke Inferno looked back over his albino shoulder to see conan place the gun down. He mentally growled he bowed up back legs kicking out hitting a post on the porch as a warning to Conan if he let his lade get hurt he would pay deeply. Looking back to the male he hissed
For your sake they better. If they don't i'll get out of here and be back. No one keeps me pinned up unless I allow it.
He knew whom Ethan was his lady had saved him from the fighting ring once he was about to get placed back into it.

Conan

Though he was bravely trying to keep a strong face as he moved to help Aralyn, he still caught the crashing sound of hooves on wood, and of creaking as the wood strained against the horse's power. He wasn't happy that he had put the gun down, definitely not trusting this man once he had lied, but he used this as a cue to turn to Ben, voice hard as steel as he jerked his head towards the horse through the window. Insurance. And bullets won't stop him.

He didn't think he needed to say more. Ben wasn't stupid. He could figure out that if Aralyn was harmed, Inferno would come to help. Conan wasn't really sure that Inferno would protect HIM, but that wasn't really important, and besides Ben couldn't know that. After all, Inferno had attacked with Conan astride him. For all the man knew, Inferno might be his horse. His blue eyes met Ben's for a spare moment before turning to Aralyn again.

Ben, Tom, Pickett, & Harthrou

During all the excitement, Tom had been out back of the cabin house, waiting patiently and tending to the animals while things coolled down inside. It wasn't until shots were fired that the older man realized that things were not all well. On his way around to investigate what was happening, he came across a shaken Pickett, who explained the situation in brief. A huge, aggressive horse outside, and a weapon-bearing man- and Ben shot?

Stealing through the edge of the timberline, Tom came around to the front of the house, trying to remain hidden amongst the nearly-bare branches of the autumn plants. There was a pistol holstered at his side, but it was the small tranquilizer gun that he had aimed at Inferno. Not sure if he had been seen yet or not, Tom crouched down beside an old locust tree, careful not to step on the dangerously long thorns that littered the ground. Slowly taking aim, he fired at the horse's flank with a strong dose of sedatives that Ethan had used to catch many horses in the past.

Ben followed Conan's nod to see the horse standing outside, near the porch. One thing was for sure; he knew how dangerous that stallion could be, as his twice assaulted shoulder could attest to. "I don't know why... why you are doing this to me." He responded, sounding almost aghast by the things that had happened, "I'm in no condition to bring harm, and I've only helped..." Ben weaved his words carefully, sticking to the story that he never meant any harm at all, even though his previously revealed lies probably would cast doubt on anything he said now. But at least one thing was true; Ben knew that he couldn't do much harm right now to anyone.

Meanwhile, Pickett came around the other side of the house, planting himself low in the brush to avoid detection. Tom had wisely choosen to keep the other man dissarmed, for he couldn't hit the broad side of a barn if his life depended on it. And Tom didn't want to get caught in any friendly fire, being as Pickett was positioned directly across from him. Tom was, on the other hand, accurate to a frightening degree.

Harthrou stomped a front hoof in irritation, yet still lingered back from the larger stallion, "Say what you want, halfbreed, this will all be over soon enough." From where he stood, he could see Tom sighting his weapon to Inferno. However, Inferno could probably see Pickett, if he happened to look past Harth. But then, Pickett wasn't the armed one.

Aralyn

She blinked and leaned her slight weight against Conan. She was very thin, a problem she had. Scars on her arms, a habit she was still trying to break. "Inferno...." She murmered softly. She wanted to go to him, sooth his anxious spirit but she knew that if she tried, she wouldn't make it. "Conan....Maybe we should stay here for awhile....Or....Run back to...Charlenes. Get her....Truck. I can't...ride." Lightning over head went loose and she winced. "I...Won't make it in the storm." She moved to the couch and sat, leaning heavily on its back. "I feel so....tired...." She murmered softly.

Ben

"Aralyn's right, even you would struggle in the storm." Ben looked to Conan, his voice light and almost hesitant, as if afraid to spark any volitile reaction from the teenager. He was good at using one person to get a reaction from another, and in this case, Aralyn was a great leverage for him to use against Conan. "But if anyone can make it, you're the best canidate... in fact, I can saddle up one of our best mountain horses, and you can be to Charlene's in no time..." He offered, as a back-up plan formed in his mind.

Aralyn

She blinked and turned blue silver gaze to Ben. "Why can't he take Inferno back? Hed be a much faster choice, he beats even Psyche." Her words were soft and quiet, but there was soft authority underlying her spoken words.

Conan

Conan eyed Ben coldly, though he kept his face turned away from Aralyn so she wouldn't see the ugly look on his face. I said that I didna want to kill ya, Ben, NOT that I trusted ya. I will stay 'til Aralyn is rested enough to come home with me, or 'til I find another option. And he spoke softly to Aralyn, a bit of pleading in his voice. Please... ya need to rest, Aralyn. I know it's hard... but ya'int gonna heal this way.

Ben

He rested back slightly against the couch himself, knowing that it was now in the hands of Tom, Pickett, and potentially Ethan to amened the situation at this point. "Alright, I'm sorry." Ben replied, looking almost blankly towards the window, giving his words a placid touch. Again, trying to keep tension down and not rattle Conan anymore... although it was terribly tempting to toy with others personalities. He was silent for a long moment before voicing his recent proposal again, "If you want another option, we've got a great horse..." He turned to the two, a slight wince given as he strained his shoulder, "...the most sure-footed animal I've ever been on. Light, quick... could get down out of these mountains before the storm hit fully. Much quicker than that... well, that big steed you have out there. Get to town in no time flat, and come back with a vehicle." His gaze flashed towards the window, where high, dark clouds swirled. The air was growing colder, and already a few flurries came drifting down from the raging heavens. Another flash of lightning shown, adding an insteresting aspect to the fall storm, as well as intensifying the 'danger' factor. It wasn't often that snow and visible lightning played at the same time, but it was an awsome sight when they did.

Conan

He eyed Ben with ice in his eyes, scowling still as he reached for his own pack, which was balanced above Aralyn's on his back. As he began to bring out a strong oral painkiller and a water bottle, he spoke softly, some of his natural Yorkshirean accent showing through, as it was wont to do when he was upset. Aye, and wha' might your friend there, or you yaself, do ta Aralyn whilst I'm off bein carried away by some completely green, unbroke horse a your'n? Don't think I don' know wha' yer up to, fella. I've not come from the prettiest ba'ground, an' so I know 'xactly how a mind like ta your'n works. Don' press me, Ben.

He was referring, of course, to his parents. Like Aralyn, he had his own darkness to live with, though it was a different darkness. His father, the roaring, drunken man who beat the stuffing out of their youngest son. His mother, the coy, manipulative wife, with a doctorate in playing with emotions. Oh yes, Ben would have to do much better than this to fool Conan. Young as he was, the boy was very wise to people.

Turning those blue eyes away from Ben, he handed the painkiller and water to Aralyn, speaking softly. Here ya're then, Aralyn. Bit of som'thin to help fix ya up. Strongest thing I got tha' won't make ya sleep, light as y'are. Still better'n naught, though. When tha' starts workin', maybe you'll be able ta patch yaself up a little better.

Ben

Suprise was the highlight of his paling face when he turned back to Conan, as well as a touch of hurt, "You take me as some kind of monster, don't you? Sure, I'll admit that Dan doesn't have the best intentions in the world, but I put a stop to that pretty quick, didn't I?" Ben replied hastily in defense of himself, his thin eyebrows narrowed to cast a gloomy shadow around his wide eyes. "I've told you before, I've been nothing but help to this young girl, and she can attest to that! If anyone's morals are to question here, I'd be looking at you! You are, afterall, the only one here who's intentionally brought harm." At this, he gingerly brought his hand down from his shoulder and folded with his other hand. "If you'd see beyond your insecurities, you might just realize that I'm trying to help you. As for our horses, you won't come across a better one than Minnesota. He's a champion, a purebred..." Ben paused as he found his rambling speech making him light headed. "...but if you'd rather wait around here until tomorrow... when the snow is cleared enough for a vehicle to drive through... then so be it." He added resolutely, giving Conan a hard, unwavering look before turning to assess his shoulder once more.

Aralyn

She took the pill and water from Conan, and downed them both quickly. She hated pills, always had. Then she moved from one side of Ben to the other. She took a knife from her pocket and sliced up his shirt and folded it off him, not speaking but an apologetic look in her eye. She didn't want to hurt him. "Conan, hand me my pack please." Herbs, strong and powerful, lay in there. Many would take the pain away. She would let the two men bicker, she was feeling to lightheaded to argue.

Conan

Conan was growing tired of this line of questioning, and let the man see it on his face, for what it was worth. His voice was harsh, trembling a little in anger, as he spoke through gritted teeth. If I was you, I wouldn't be questioning morals. Y'aint in the position ta, if'n you know what's good fer ya.

And his good foot landed noticeably beside the gun, his face still scowling. Whether Aralyn trusted this man or not, Conan found himself trusting him less and less with each moment that passed. He was perfectly able of flipping that gun up with his foot and bringing it to shooting position, and he wanted Ben to know it. Now n'less you wanna have a matchin' set of shoulders, I suggest ya keep your mouth shut.

Conan

Only as he finished his threat did he hear Aralyn speak, and he reluctantly took her pack off, scowling as he handed it to her. He couldn't BELIEVE she was going to heal him, but he didn't say anything, just gave the man a look that clearly said Watch yourself.

Ben

"Only trying to help." Ben repeated in a hushed mumble. Then he gritted his teeth, sucking in a quick breath when she pulled off the cut-up shirt, matted in blood around the bullet holes. But he was determined not to give into the pain, when Aralyn hadn't. Still, there was anxious look in his blue eyes that was sincere to the iminent fear that dwelled in him. It was usually him on the other side, and not wounded and being taken care of. This was something new, and rather unexpected.

Pretending to ignore the message that Conan was sending him, Ben looked fleetingly to the teen, as a very faint, brief expression crossed his face. The subtle look could be taken as a leering, smug expression; or maybe nothing at all. And then his attention was back to Aralyn, hesitency creeping into his voice, "W-what do you have in there?"

Aralyn

"Stuff" She replied with a faint smile. She dug in her pack and pulled out the first herb, a medicinal root that she had gotten only a few moments before Ben and Tom had shown up. She looked around for a moment then shrugged and bit it crushing it in her mouth until it was a fine paste. Nasty tasting, but one of the best healing concoctions that she had ever found. Taking it out of her mouth she began to rub it into the wound. Ben would slowly begin to feel the herb work, it would first get warm and then a cooling sensation would take its place easing the muscles beneath and healing the wound.

Inferno

Inferno looked past Harth and saw the younger man. BUt he looked further at the man and hissed under his breathe for the younger one was looking past him at someone else. Inferno then eyed Harth danger written deep in those blue orbs. He attack he lunched forward dentals aiming for the brute's face the dart that was ment for his flank brushed through Inferno's tail and hit the house. Inferno heard it he knew what was happening and he chuckled as he attack Harth.
Those can't stop me quick enough.

Ben, Pickett, Tom, & Harthrou

With Inferno being more than a match for him, Harthrou kept himself a few good paces back. He was sure that Tom's aim would be good, but this stallion was very quick. Normally, Harth would suck in his pride and keep the agressor on a run-about, for he couldn't take on such a big brute. Yet this time, he needed to afford the human an easier target to hit. And so Harth stood his ground, snapping his teeth at Inferno, after the other's teeth had scored a bloody wound to the side of his cheek. Rearing up, Harth began to kick out his front hooves at the other, enticing him to do the same thing.

Tom didn't waste time, and loaded a second dart just as soon as the first one was shot. Angling himself a bit better in the brush, the man took aim on Inferno's flank again and shot. As long as he'd stand and fight Harthrou, Tom would have a better chance at hitting him.

Pickett remained in the brush, waiting for orders from Tom. As soon as Inferno was taken care of, it would be time to see to Ben.

Ben flexed his hands compulsively, eyeing the pasty root with a less than sure look. Tensing and breathing in short, ragged little breathes, he endured the application as best as he could, his face contorting with the pain now and then. Once it was on, he looked wearily to Aralyn, a flicker of a sincere smile coming to his thin lips, "Thanks. Ben breathed out in almost a whisper. His mind fluttered, and for a moment, he was almost lost to the darkness of fainting. But he fought it to remain awake, still doing his best to look attentive and awake, even if his face had paled dramatically at this point.

Inferno

Inferno got what he wanted a blood wound now as the untrained fighter reared to dare him to do the same Inferno almost took it then remember the dart. He moved quickly again this time he pushed off he didn't stop to attack harth he would get the brute alone later. Instead the hessian moved quickly behind the house before the shot had time to fired. He eyes looked for anythings he knew more then one dart would be needed to kill him but he needed help he wondered the the wolves at the Farm would hear his call. He bellowed loud then found a shed with a half closed door and nosed his way in. If he was locked in a few sure kicks would break the flimsy thin wood door. But no one had seen him come in. Thorns were perked he could still hear if something went wrong in the house.

White Noise

the onyx hunter stalked up behind the man with the dart gun. his yellow tinted orbs never missing a movement. He blended in well with the shadows and his pads made no sound as the man fire the guns. With the last fire though Noise took action his powerful stalks lunched him forward for the back of the neck of man dentals begging for blood.

Tom & Pickett

Tom may have been brought down in the blink of an eye by Noise's stealthy approach. But luckily for him, Pickett had perfect view of the attacker, and gave up his own hiding spot to yell a warning to the older man. With movements that seemed to defy his gray-haired age, the man whipped around, swinging the small handgun with smashing force towards the wolf's muzzle. "The dogs! Release them, hurry!" He yelled, lurching upwards into a standing position, hoping to get his barings before the wolf made his next move.

Pickett was off at once, scrambling for the back yard with great haste.

Conan

The yelling outside caught the red-haired boy's attention, and he looked to Ben and Aralyn, considering. Much as the man was trying to fight it, it was obvious that he couldn't do much harm to Aralyn at the moment. Making a decision in the blink of an eye, he grabbed up the gun and headed toward the door. Keep your knife out, Aralyn. If that man gives you any trouble, stab first and apologize later.

That done, he came back to the door, rifle in hand, though he could still see the pair on the couch with a turn of his head. He watched Pickett go, and noticed with a bit of panic that Inferno was no where in sight. It did not show on his face, however, as he fired a second warning shot into the air, swinging about to catch an aim at Tom as he called for the horse. Inferno? Inferno, to me!

If the man made another attempt to shoot the horse, he would find himself in the same position as Ben.

Aralyn

"Stay here." She murmered softly. She stood slowly and headed to the door. She slipped past Conan, not hard for her, and stood on the front porch with her feet planted. She sucked in as much breath as she could and let out a sharp high pitched whistle. She winced, it hurt even her own ears and she knew how the wolf must feel. "Inferno! Aqui! Aqui ahora!" She said. Her voice wasn't very loud but it was loud enough for a horses ears to hear. Quietly she waited.

Conan

He was building a protest, but only a frustrated, Aralyn! escaped him before she was already out in the open. Knowing now that it was too late, he stepped in front of her, and a little to the side where Tom was. Inferno would be able to see his mistress if he came, but Conan stood between Aralyn and the immediate threat.

Ben, Harthrou, Ethan, & Tom

Tom ducked instinctively when the warning shot was fired. Sparing a brief glance in Conan's direction, he yelled to the teen, "Why don't 'cha try point'n that at the wolf?" His words were given as he faced White Noise again, gun ready to be used as a baton if he was attacked.

Ben heaved himself off the couch, taking a few unbalanced steps towards the nearby hallway where he was out of Conan's sight. Flinging the nearest door open, he nearly fell face-first on the floor before managing to slam the door shut behind him and lock it.

Harthrou gave a shrill whinny and reared up once in protest of the loud shot. Big, dark eyes lit on Conan's gun, but the stallion didn't make any sort of move towards the weapon- it wasn't his job to protect Tom, after all. Instead, he just stood there, watching the gun warily and waiting for his own master to show up.

By this time, Ethan had finally reached the place after Tom's initial call alerted him. Back when they were driving away from the prairie. There was a large, heavy back-pack slung over his shoulders, and a rabbit hanging limp in one hand. Among other things, a large walkie-talkie adorned his side. The tall man seemed oblivious to the previous drama that had played out as he came power-walking down the drive. "Hey, what's going on here? Tom and Danny said someone needed help...?" Ethan said, sliding his pack off and setting the dead rabbit along side it. He carried no weapons with him what-so-ever as he came towards the house, a look of confusion on his face.

"Mind to the girl, she's who I called you for. Danny's letting the hounds out to take care of this wolf. And for heaven's sake boy," Tom said aloud, switching from Ethan to Conan, "Watch where you're pointing that thing!"

Ethan slowed down now, eyes going briefly to the riffle, "Unless you've got skills, I wouldn't be shooting that wolf so close to my friend there." He advised, playing the part of the fool. He knew full well what was going on here, but acted as though he thought Conan were trying to shoot White Noise, rather than threaten Tom. "Now, is this the young lady that needs help? I've got medical gear inside..."

Inferno | Azul

Ethan for some unknown reason that man sent anger waves up Azul's back. the male wasn't into killing like his brother. But he lunch out from under the steps moving infront of the lady that Inferno protected and Conan the male that Inferno was growing to trust slowly. He hackles rose as he growled looking to his brother he barked a warning to leave the male alone for now then his eyes landed upon Ethan again.

Inferno heard Conan then his lady call he moved from the shed quickly up behind his lady he touched his mug gently upon her shoulder gently knowing well that she was hurt. The massive albino stallion eyed the male Ethan distrust showing in his eyes. Seeing Azul and White Noise he snorted bodding his head to them and moving his chassis from being to protect his lady and Conan he didn't trust this man Hart had mentioned him and that didn't make Inferno like him one bit. He snorted blue orbs glaring at Ethan.

White Noise

White Noise moved away from the man as the impact hit him he snarled about to leap back in what his brother bark to him. He hackles rose even more his yellow orbs showing blood lust then moved away from the man into the brush the moved about the house quickly to were the dogs were being held the snarling and growling of the dogs at his scent made him smirk as he looked for male that was coming up this way he waited hidden in the shadows along the path waiting.

Aralyn

Her eyes seemed to flash and a scowl crossed her face. "I need no ones help." Pride. God she had a lot of it. Her hand reached out to press against her prize stallions muzzle. She knew fully well that he had been a fighter, and just for his sheer size and 'anger' problems would still make an excellent one. "Back." She murmered softly. She stepped down off the porch using Inferno as a crutch leaning her slight weight on him. "Do you have a place where I can put him? We won't be leaving in this storm." She felt as if she was going to collapse but she held tightly to Inferno, not allowing herself the simple pleasure of showing weakness.

Ben, Harthrou, Ethan, & Tom

"Are you sure, miss? I'm a doctor.." He paused when Azul made his entrance, "...they say you had quite the fall..." His sentence sounded distracted as he continued to watch the wolf, and quickly he brought up a new question, "... is that one of your pets?"

Tom backed out of the timberline as White Noise drifted off into the underbrush, out of sight. As Ben had, the old man pretended to ignore the fact that Conan had his riffle pointed at him. Instead, he replied to Aralyn's question, "Yeah, heck- we've got enough room out back to keep a whole herd." He looked to Harthrou for a moment and shook his head, "Better get that beast in too, Ethan."

Ethan snorted slightly, "Ah, he's fine. Come on, Harth, you've been good, haven't you?" The man asked, warily pulling his gaze away from Azul to look to his stallion. The black horse perked his ears and nickered at the man's voice before trotting over to him. "There, see, tame as a kitten." With a broad smile, he looked from his stallion to Aralyn. Of all the men that worked for Ben, Ethan was probably the most charming- when he wanted to be. "So, how's about we take your horse there and get him settled into a stall. Then we can see about your injuries?"

Inferno

Inferno glared at Hart and Ethan neither had earned in trust from him and neither would get it. He bared his teeth at them as he man looked to him. If they thought he was going anywere to be lock up they were crazy. He shook his massive white skull then looked back to his lady only in his eyes could she see the softness. He nuzzled her hand gently worry in his orbs she wanted to stay? It wasn't safe he could feel it in his bones.

Ethan, Pickett, Harthrou, Hydra, & Packs

Harthrou laced his ears back as he glared at Inferno, "You and your two humans are outnumbered, halfbreed. Best watch your manners now." The stallion didn't quite understand the game that the other men were playing, but then he didn't understand a lot of what the strange two-leggers did.

"Easy, now." Ethan said, patting the Harth's neck as his ears went back. Harth didn't ease up though, and only got more tense as Hydra came cantering around the side of the cabin home.

The dappled gray mare was Ben's horse, just as Harth belonged to Ethan. And like the stallion, she generally had free reign of the area, and listened only to her master. "What's got you two riled up?" She asked almost pointedly, seeing the obvious tension between Inferno and Harth.

Behind the house, Pickett had finally reached the pens and released Ethan's pack. The six hounds went instantly for the front yard, where they could both smell and hear the drama playing out. Kong, the massive black and sepia King Hound, was the first to arrive. Tail up, he stalked confidently towards Ethan, with the rest of his pack members in tote.

About that time, Ben's pack had made it back from the Marsh under the command of Dip, a blue-merle King Hound. Six members comprised of his pack today, though usually there were seven. Meservea was in a separate kennel, healing from a recent hunting wound. Not seeing his master, Dip led his group to the next figure of authority- Ethan. Tail high, he stood next to the tall man. All twelve eyes were held ominously on Azul, but the wolf wasn't attacked. The hounds were smart enough to act on their own accord, but in the presence of their masters, they waited obediently like soldiers for a command.

Conan

The presence of all those canines and foreign humans only made Conan more tense, and more likely to fire if anyone made a move as though they were going to hurt them. Though a horse with Inferno's aggression would usually have earned a soft, calming word from the boy, he gave the albino stallion a free way to go, not even attempting to calm him, though it was doubtful that he could. Conan might be armed, but he was one armed human against four, and though only one that he could see was armed, there could be others. This was enough without recoking for the six hounds. No, he needed Inferno angry.

He stepped up less than Aralyn did, not wanting to give room for anyone to come at him from behind. But it was enough to emphasize to the men that if they wanted to hurt Aralyn, they would have to take out Inferno, White Noise, Azul, and Conan all first. Chivalry isn't dead. Protect the girl til we all die.

It was at this point that it occured to him that he wished he had a dog. Ammit was as sweet a friend as he could have asked for, and a hardy little mare, but she was just not built for the kind of hard battle and protection that it was now apparent they needed. Acknowledging this, he made a mental note to himself to think about this later.

However, this thinking was done in a completely detached part of his mind, as his eyes and senses all focussed on the others around him. If the men thought this would be a good time to attack, they were mistaken. His gun remained pointed evenly, steadily, but he made no move to fire. Passive resistance. Gotta love it.

Aralyn

She narrowed her silver blue eyes and suddenly said in a sharp voice, "Stop it, all of you! You are all acting like a bunch of school ground children." Her eyes were on Ethan and Ethan alone. She trusted Ben, but there was something about this man that put her on edge. When the king hounds arrived her eyes widened slightly. She pressed a bit closer to Inferno, her eyes on the massive hybrids. "What in the hell are those things?" She had heard of a new breed of dog, ones that were now used for guarding and hunting but she had never seen one. She could sense Infernos distrust of the men and she placed a soothing hand on his muzzle. Softly she murmered, "I can't leave right now, big guy. I'm not strong enough. We'll stay for a little while, just until I get a little better. Then we can leave. You need to trust me, big guy." She ran her hand up his dial and back down, rubbing his face gently. "I'd need to take him back, I know that you won't get near him. He'd eat you alive." Her smile was faint and her eyes landed on Hydra. So many animals! She shook her head and grasped Inferno's mane tighter. Alright, genius. Don't shake your head. Her hand on Inferno she began to walk. She looked to Azul and said in a soft tone, "Go home, ami. Go see to that pretty mate of yours." She had seen Moon Spirit before, many times bringing in her sister Aaka. A soft smile in place she began to walk again leading Inferno. "Where do I put him?" She asked.

Ethan, Tom, Harthrou, Hydra, & Packs

Tom stood up straight, slowly, as his face turned to a more serious one. "Lower the gun, boy." He held the small dart gun so that the end faced the ground, though it wasn't even loaded at the moment.

Ethan cleared his throat loudly and looked briefly to the hounds, "Kong, Dip- guard the territory. Go! Guard." At the command, the pack drifted away, all tweleve dogs melting out into the surrounding land to patrol around the property. 'Guard' and 'Territory' were two basic words they knew well. Ethan looked back to Aralyn, "Don't worry, miss. They won't harm you; they're King Hounds, and trained in obedience. If you think you're up to it, follow me back to the stalls." Tapping Harth's side, Ethan headed to the back yard (the Game Trails), with the black stallion following.

Hydra watched, but made no moves to follow. The winds were picking up, and snow was beginning to flutter down from the sky even more. A second flash of lightning briefly lit the sky, before a crackling roar of thunder rent the chilled air. The spotted mare reared slightly and shook her head, then looked to Tom. The man was walking towards her now, but like Ethan, she wouldn't have anything to do with him. Lifting her head and tail, she picked up her pace and moved to the opposite side of the yard.

Tom waved his hand in a frustrated gesture, "Stay out in the cold then, see if I care." He looked again to Conan, as Hydra hadn't provided him the distraction he needed to slip out of the boy's sights.

Aralyn

"Come on, baby." She murmered softly. She stood up on one of the steps and leaped onto his back trying not to moan in pain. "Lets go." She said. She lightly nudged his Inferno's sides letting him know to take it easy. She would be unable to hold him back if he bolted, they both knew it. Pray....That was all she could do.

Conan

He was not keen on letting go of his meager defense, but the dismissal of many of the unknown dogs and Aralyn's scolding word finally made him lower the gun. It remained in his hand, but it was now down at his side, not pointed at anyone. Moving as she did, he made to keep pace with Aralyn, knowing that most of her weight was leaned against the albino stallion. If Inferno DID bolt, Conan would be there to catch her. She didn't really need to fall right now. Also, she was still protected between Inferno's bulk and his own, at least for a time.

He was slowly beginning to relax. Ben was injured, and now that Conan had shown that he meant business, the man seemed significantly cowed. But someone had taken a good deal of trouble to pound it into his head to never let his guard down, and he would not.

Inferno | Azul

the wolf nodded to the miss and took his leave and brushed past one of the King hounds he was their size being a mix bred timber wolf. he didn't know what his bloodlone held but he knew what his mother was and he growled a low warning not to follow him and moved to his lands.

Inferno followed his lady thorns remained flattened against his skull he ignored Hart he would get him later. He moved easily for his big bulk following her cues until he saw the barn he snorted and stopped just outside the door. Fore dagger lifed and slammed into the sob hard he had never been in a barn or a stall he liked being in the open he was wild to any others buth is lady and wanted to stay that way. If she pressure him more he would go anything to make her happy. He pondered Ethan's and the others motives and wondered if anything would happen to any of them. White Noise was still about the sneaky wolf was hiding somewhere about here he knew it.