Magpie Scribbles

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 11. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. 

This is rather short but I know part 12 and 13 will likely be long ones.

Kitt sits in the throne room, surrounded by Kai and the royal advisors. He has already sent his acceptance to the invitation with the intention to learn everything about the ominous Thorin that Dani seemed so afraid to oppose. One advisor attempts to begin the meeting with an update on the kingdom's coffers until Kitt interrupts, “Who is Thorin?” His words are clipped as he scans the advisors around him.

There's a long pause before one of the advisors appointed to manage legal contracts slowly raises his hand. “Thorin is the head of one of the assassin guilds, Your Majesty. Based out of Dor but he does own a manor in the city.”

Kitt presses his lips together forming a thin line before asking, “And has this assassin had any dealings with the crown?” 

Another advisor swallows before responding hesitantly, “Yes, Your Majesty. Your late father, the king, had leveraged Thorin’s services in the past to carry out his will, that is before the Enforcer became skilled enough and old enough to take on that duty.” The advisors and Kitt look over to Kai.

“Some say he's the devil and that he has some strange way to control his assassins to do unspeakable things.” Another says. 

Kai leans over to Kitt to say, “you still want to go through with this?”

“Yes.” Kitt responds plainly, hardly looking at Kai.

Suddenly the doors to the throne room swing open and Dani strides in looking far from pleasant. Everyone turns their gaze towards her. Kitt is relieved to see Dani has been healed. It's as if nothing happened. Not even a scar from the gash near her collar bone.

An advisor stands and begins to reprimand her until Kitt raises his voice to say, “Everyone out. I need five minutes with Ms. Jaxson.” Dani scoffs at the formality. 

The advisors stand in unison and begin to file out as Dani weaves her way towards Kitt. Kai approaches her first. She throws up a hand to wave him off as she stops a couple yards away from Kitt in an attempt to show she’s not a threat.

When the doors close she practically yells at Kitt, “You accepted?!”

“Yes. I did.”

“Then rescind it! You really are the more reckless Azer brother, aren't you?!” She snaps. The dig hits Kitt like a physical slap but he chooses to ignore it.

“No! I should know what threats dwell in my kingdom!” His voice rises but not in anger. It's stern. Like that of a king. Dani throws her arms up and lets them drop to her side as she spins on her heels with a huff. Kitt takes a breath and a few steps towards her. He softens his voice as he says, “Dani, will you please just talk to me? Let me help you.”

Dani stares him down before sighing heavily and dragging her hands over her face in frustration, all while ignoring his plea. “Well, then. For the love of whatever gods you pray to, I can't stress this enough. When you are at the manor, whatever you witness, do not react. Do not show that you care in the slightest. He will use whatever he can against you.”

“What do you mean?” Kai asks, his voice dropping.

“He will expose any weakness.” Dani huffs. “And I can guarantee that when you visit, there will be some show of power.” She shakes her head in disbelief that Kitt accepted the invitation even after she pleaded that he decline.

“Is he a threat to Kitt’s life?” Kitt rolls his eyes at this, hating the feeling of being coddled.

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 10. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. E.g. for this chapter: sex, masturbation, physical abuse.

Dani and Kitt are in his bed. He's on top of her. Thrusting. His hands are tangled in her hair as he pulls her head back granting him access to her neck and he sucks just beneath her ear as her breath catches in her throat, as she moans. Suddenly his eyes shoot open. A dream. Only a dream. It's not the first. 

Kitt wakes up in his bed alone. He looks down. Clearly Dani has an effect on him even when she isn't in the room. His balls feel heavy like they need a release. Kitt reaches under the covers and grabs the base of his cock. He begins to pump slowly. Quickly, his thoughts return to Dani and his dream. Her moans. Her smooth skin. Her thighs wrapped around him. Her breath on his skin. He strokes faster. He thinks of how it would feel to be buried inside her. Tight. Wet. Warm. He feels a tingling sensation building in his stomach and at the base of his spine. He’s getting close. He hears her voice from his dream moaning his name, almost like a prayer, imagines her fingers combing through his hair, pulling it. The tingling builds. He's almost there. So close. A few more strokes and this body shakes as he cums in his hand and sheets. His head falls back against the pillow. It takes a few moments to regain his breath. Shit. Now he needs new sheets.

When he finally collects himself, he remembers how things ended between them the night before. He doesn't like how their conversation ended. When he's dressed and ready for the day he goes to find some caramel chocolates to leave outside Dani’s door as a peace offering. Something to bridge the divide. At least it's a start. When he stops by the next day he sees the caramels haven't moved. So, he knocks on the door. No answer. No sounds inside. He starts to worry. And then there's that tug inside his chest. It feels like panic. But there's nothing nearby to be the cause. So, he finds Kai and tells him to tell every Imperial that if they see Dani to let him know immediately. 

Kitt knows she can handle herself. She was a decent match against Kai in the sparring ring. Yet, Kitt worries. Something in his gut tells him something is off. It's easy to not see someone around the castle. It's huge. But neither has Kai, Paedyn, or Gail.

It's almost dinner when an Imperial bangs on the door of Kitt’s study. “Come in,” Kitt says.

“You're Majesty.” The Imperial says breathlessly. He must have run here, Kitt thinks. “It’s Dani. She's approaching the castle. She appears to be hurt.” Kitt jumps to his feet and runs past the Imperial, down the corridor, and to the main castle entrance. 

He spots Dani limping through the entrance. She's sporting a black eye, busted lip, and a gash just above her collar bone. Bruises run down her arms making it clear someone grabbed her or held her down. By the looks of her it seems it takes everything she has to remain vertical. Kitt halts mere feet away.

“Who did this to you?” Kitt demands. He steps towards her slowly and reaches to cup her cheek. But she catches his hand and pulls it down. It's as if she doesn’t believe she deserves the kindness, the tenderness of his touch. 

She reaches for her back pocket and hands him what appears to be an invitation. “I'm only here to deliver this.”  He takes the invitation and looks it over.

“Who is Thorin?” He asks.

“No one good,” Dani replies frankly. She sounds broken. “Please, don't accept it,” she says referring to the invitation. There’s a plea in her words. 

“Come with me. I'll have Eli heal you.” Kitt urges Dani with a gentle hand on her back. He wants to keep her safe. 

But she pulls away. “That will only make things worse,” she says, blinking away tears, her voice breaking.

“How can I help then?” Kitt asks. “Tell me how I can help.” His voice sounds desperate. 

“Don’t accept the invitation. And let me go.” She urges again as she continues to back away towards the entrance. “Please,” she whispers. Stunned at her words he does just that. He lets her go. He doesn't know why. But he does.

A little while later, he sits on a bench near the main entry. His elbows rest on his knees, his chin rests on one hand, the other holds the invite he exams.

Kai comes jogging into view. “I heard Dani was spotted. Where is she?”

“Gone,” Kitt simply replies. His voice is distant. “She told me to let her go.” He pauses and Kai just watches his brother. Kitt glances up at Kai. “But I can't. Not if someone is hurting her.”

“Hurting her?” Kai questions. 

“You didn't see her. Someone beat her.” Kitt’s voice starts to rise with anger. “Really beat her, Kai. I'm surprised she was walking. She handed me this.” He holds up the invitation. “And told me not to accept and to let her go. I can't, Kai. I won't.” Kitt’s chest is practically heaving.

Kai grabs Kitt by the shoulders to hold his attention. “Hey, Kitt? Look at me.” Kitt stares into Kais's gaze. “Let's talk about this in the study where we don't need to worry about prying ears. We'll figure this out. Together.”

_______

Kai sits in one of the chairs near the fireplace as Kitt paces the study. He keeps running his hands through his hair. “I want to know everything about this Thorin.” Kitt demands. 

“We can ask the advisors what they know. You're sure nothing in father's letters mentions this guy?” While learning that the late king was not Kai's true father, it's a hard habit to break.

“Yes, I'm sure.”

“Kitt. Maybe you should heed Dani’s plea?” Kai asks. “What if it's a trap?”

Kitt just about explodes. “If Paedyn told you to let her go, would you?!” Kai and Kitt both already know the answer. “And what is the point of being a king if I cant even keep one person safe?!”

“Damn. You care about her.”

“I just want to know she safe.” Kitt starts before Kai jumps back in.

“Oh, no Kitty. You actually care about her.” Kitt swallows hard. He hasn't admitted anything close to caring about Dani out loud. He's not even sure he's capable of truly caring for someone other than Kai. But then again… “Look, Kitt. I know you just as well as I know myself. So, don't deny it.” Kai walks over to Kitt, stopping his pacing. “I want to see you happy. And if Dani makes you happy then I'll do what it takes to help make sure she's safe.”

“Call all the advisors to the throne room first thing in the morning. We'll go from there.” Kai nods before saying goodnight and leaving the study, leaving Kitt with his thoughts. He reaches for his pen and a piece of parchment.

What has Dani gotten herself into? Who is Thorin? Is she a spy? Was this part of a ruse?

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 9. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Later that night Dani walks into the kitchen five minutes before nine. She likes to pad her time so she's rarely late. But it seems Kitt has already arrived. He’s pulling bowls out of the cabinets when he sees her. “What are we baking tonight?” Dani asks. 

Kitt shrugs, "I don't know. Any preferences?”

“Chocolate.” Dani responds without missing a beat.

Suddenly Kitt seems uneasy. “We can try. But if I'm being honest the last time I tried baking anything it wasn't edible. Eggshells wound up in it.” He thinks briefly to the time he baked with Mara, Death. But he quickly shakes his head. He wants to stay present with Dani. Just like what Kanshin talked about today. Staying in the moment. Not the ‘what if’.

“Don't worry. I got this.” Dani says with full confidence. She starts to rummage through the pantry for the ingredients she'll need for a chocolate lava cake. She moves fluidly, Kitt notices, like a dancing flame.

“I thought you liked honey cakes.” Kitt says. Curiosity strikes his features and knits is brow slightly. 

“I do… like honey cakes. But I love chocolate. Especially caramel chocolates.” Once she has all the ingredients on the counter she gets to work measuring and pouring. Kitt helps along the way at her direction. 

Once the cakes are in the oven they sit down at the table with the mixing bowl. They sit quietly as they scrape at the little batter that's stuck around the edges of the bowl. “So, you know how to bake.” Kitt observes. 

“I know how to do a lot of things.” Dani says as she swipes her finger in the bowl. Kitt can't help but track her finger has she brings it to her mouth and sucks the batter off. Then she pulls her bottom lip in with her teeth to lick the small bit that missed her mouth. Kitt finds himself taking a breath and holding it before he tears his gaze away. Then he realizes she's talking again. “Like I told Kai in the sparring ring today, I dabble.” And that she does. Baking just happens to be a less deadly hobby.

Not too long after the timer dings. They remove the cakes and lets them cool slightly. Dani pulls out a piece of paper and starts writing a note to Gail that's says, Gail. Warm and enjoy. Dani. Kitt grabs the pen, adds his name and writes, No eggshells this time. Promise. Dani chuckles when she reads it before placing the note with the extra cakes from their batch.

They clean up what they didn't get to while the cakes baked. Kitt stoops down beneath one of the counters and pulls out a blanket and says, “I was hoping we could enjoy these outside, while there are still some warm nights?”

Dani feels her cheeks heat but then says as she widens her eyes, “this is starting to feel like a date.”

“It’s not…” he sighs. “You know, I'm starting to think you're a little spit fire. You always seem to have a comeback lined up.” His tone is playful as he shakes his head at her. Heck, the smile on his face practically reaches his eyes.

“Oh, you have no idea.” She says smiling. “Let's go before these cool down too much.”

They quickly get outside to the garden, spread out the blanket, and dig into their cakes. The chocolate flows out as they break open the cakes. After a few bites Kitt says, “Don't tell Gail but this might be a new favorite.”

They both laugh before Dani replies, “Your treasonous secret is safe with me.”

They continue eating to the sounds of crickets in the surrounding gardens. “You really do like it here, in the gardens, don't you?” Dani asks.

“I do.” Kitt says. “I can clear my mind here the most.” Dani just nods. His facial expression turns more troubled.

“What is it?” Dani asks. Kitt shifts to lie down on the blanket. Dani places both their plates to the side before joining him. They're arms touch ever so lightly.

“I keep thinking about the session with Kanshin today. I don’t know if I can stay present. There is so much I want to do for Ilya and that requires me to think of the ‘what ifs’. And to top that off I feel like I'm at a loss now.”

“How so?” Dani asks. Kitt notices her curiosity but then the dark thoughts return. 

“I thought I had it all figured out. A way to even the playing field so no one felt lesser than,” he explains.

“By subjecting the other kingdoms to the Plague.” It’s more of a statement than a question. She learned what had happened from Kai. It’s clear Kitt is a bit stunned that she knows. If she knows then why is she still here lying beside a monster? “My gut tells me that would have only brought more trouble to your door step.”

Kitt blinks. Confused. “How? I would have ruled over it all. Or Kai would have." His voice isn’t biting but cautious. He’s now afraid of what she thinks of him. And that’s the problem: he hardly knows anything that she thinks.

“There will always be someone craving power. Status. Clawing for it. Whether we’re all Elites or not. It would have given the other kingdoms just as much fire power so to speak to fight over who would rule it all. And what if the way to even the playing field is to let Elite abilities die out?” The last part leaves her lips a bit sharp.

Kitt rolls to his side to face Dani, propped up on his elbow. “Why would you think that?” He sounds a bit offended. 

She looks at him as her voice turns stern. “Because we're clearly the unnatural ones. Maybe our bodies were never meant to have this much power. Hell, Kitt a second dose almost killed you! Besides, exposing kingdoms to a plague that alters them is basically biological warfare. It would kill hundreds of thousands. Children, too.” That last piece hits Kitt in a way it hasn’t before. His mind had become too clouded with the plague; it never occurred to him. And he hates that.

“I wanted to be remembered for being great. Better than my father. And I just didn’t want anyone else to feel like I do.” It’s barely a whisper. Dani holds her tongue. Kitt continues, “Alone. Useless. Weak. I always envied Kai for being able to get out of the castle, being able to see our kingdom. Meanwhile, I sat around waiting to be useful.”

Feeling brazen Dani continues, “I know you want to leave a mark on the world and prove you’re better than your father. But what is the point if you feel alone?” She pauses, shifts her gaze to the stars then says, “We also don’t control how history remembers us. Hell, you could erase your father if you really wanted to. So, it really doesn’t matter. From what I’ve experienced so far, very little does.”

The last statement stings Kitt’s chest. He didn’t expect that. “That’s pretty morbid,” Kitt tries a bit of humor. Dani hardly reacts. She just stares up at the stars. “Well, if I’m going to find a better approach at doing any good in this world that will last, I’ll need advisors I can trust. Would you consider being one of them?”

She glances at this, “Me?” she asks with a quizzical look on her face.

“Yes, you.” He pokes her arm. “It’s odd but I find it easy to talk to you. And you clearly won’t tip toe around me.” He smiles at her. He didn’t expect it to be easy to talk to anyone after everything in the past few months. Yet he feels tugged towards her. Why?

“I can’t.” She practically chokes on her words.

“Why not?” Kitt’s voice is a bit alarmed. Dani sits up now and rubs the back of her neck and winces. Kitt notices and sits up as well then asks, “are you ok?”

“I’m fine. Just a neck ache.” Dani lies. But it’s to protect him. He can’t know what she is. What she does. “I can’t because I'm a liability.” Truth. Well, kind of. He’s better off letting me go, she thinks. At this point she can’t look him in the eyes. Those green eyes that feel like a forest she wants to get lost in.

“I don’t understand.” Kitt says with concern. “Are you in trouble? Does it have something to do with not feeling safe?” She laughs internally. Does it ever. “Dani, whatever it is, let me help.”

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 8. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Kitt knocks on Dani’s door. When she opens the door she's wearing a pair of loose fitted cream colored pants that hug her at the waist paired with a deep blue fitted top that stops an inch or two above the pants. The shirt has a u shaped neckline. Her shoulders are bare. And because of Kitt’s height he can see a decent amount of her chest beneath the top. Not much is left to the imagination in regards to the top half.

Kitt swallows. He doesn’t think Dani notices or maybe she doesn’t care. She surprises him when she smiles and says, “ready?”

“Um, yea,” he manages as he steps aside to give her space to pass through the door and into the hall as he clears his mind.

The walk is short so not much is said. As Kitt and Dani approach the room where they will spend the next hour with Kanshin, Kitt stops mid stride. “What is it?” Dani asks. She worries he's about to back out.

They turn towards each other as Kitt asks, “How much does Kanshin know about you?” Kitt’s question is laced with concern. “Does he know about both your abilities?” He follows up.

"No, actually. He thinks I'm a Blaze and Tele combination.” 

Kitt presses his lips together forming a thin line then says with a small smile, “then I won't say a word.”

“I appreciate that.” Dani says. She reaches for the door handle but Kitt clears his throat. The sound causes her to pause.

“Later tonight, if you're feeling up to it, would you like to meet up in the kitchen? Maybe try baking something?”

“Are you asking me on a date, Kitt Azer?” Dani teases but Kitt seems to miss that detail. The fear quickly becomes clear on Kitt’s face as he tries to back peddle.

“Um. No. I mean just two friends doing something together.” He barely makes it through his words, stumbling painfully, before Dani lays her hand on his arm and says, “I'm just playing, Kitt. Breathe. That sounds fun. What time?”

“Um. Nine o'clock?” Still he sounds nervous. 

“Perfect.” Kitt’s shoulders visibly relax before Dani adds, “two friends. Besides, you're still a married man.” To this Kitt can't help but visibly cringe at the jab. Dani sees this and laughs. Really laughs. And he likes the sound of it. He actually forgot what she sounded like. But now he wants to memorize it, eternalize it. And the way her face lights up. He wouldn't dare look away. He wants to earn another laugh from her. Dani recomposes herself then says, “ok. Come on. Let's go.” She opens the door and they walk in together.

“Afternoon, your Majesty. Dani.” Kanshin says with a welcoming smile. Dani smiles back. He always felt warm and inviting to her.

“Afternoon, Kanshin.” Kitt and Dani each reply. Kanshin gestures to the three large pillows in front of the fireplace that sit in a triangular formation. The one closest to the fireplace seems to be meant for Kanshin. So, Dani and Kitt take the other two.

“I'll just jump right in.” Kanshin voice is soft. Warm. “How have you been feeling recently? Truthfully.” He looks at Kitt with calm eyes.

“Fine.” Kitt simply says.

Kanshin takes a pause before responding. When he does, his response is calm and slow. “If everything was fine, I don't think your Enforcer, your brother, would have sought me out.” Kitt swallows tensely. He’s not sure he likes this feeling of being emotionally dissected.

He takes a moment to collect himself, then says with a little frustration in his voice, “fine. I feel like a burden. Useless.” Kitt's green eyes start to become glossy with tears. He takes a shuttering breath and continues with a shallow breath between each word, “afraid, lost, alone.” 

“All natural emotions,” Kanshin explains. “Emotions no one enjoys feeling.” He turns his attention to Dani. “And Dani, since you're with us I won't leave you out. How have you been feeling?”

Dani was afraid of this. She can't lie either. The Soul in front of her would know. She swallows hard before forcing one word out, “unsafe.”

“Dani,” Kitt starts with a low voice before Dani interjects. “It’s no one's doing, Kitt. No one in the castle has done anything to make me feel that way. I promise.” She sees the concern on his face. And she doesn't like it. Doesn't want to worry him.

Kanshin redirects their focus when he asks Kitt, “Have you ever tried mediation, your Majesty?”

“Could you just call me Kitt in these sessions, please? And no, I haven't. Isn't that just sitting still in the quiet?” Kitt asks. 

Kanshin smiles. “As you wish, Kitt. Mediation is far more than simply sitting still. It's learning to be comfortable with your thoughts.” Kanshin looks to Dani warmly. “Dani is familiar with the concept. She can help explain.” 

Dani looks a little uncomfortable about being put on the spot but she hides it. She thinks back to how Kanshin explained the concept to her when she was only 7 years old. She sounds uncertain as she begins “Um, yea. Pretend that your mind is like the sky and each cloud is a thought. Small are small and fluffy. Others are large and dark. But they pass regardless. Another metaphor is a stream and each piece of debris is the thought. Either way, the point is to see the memory or emotion, acknowledge it, and then let it pass you by.”

“Yes, thank you Dani. And we do this by grounding ourselves in our senses. Our breath, the feeling of our body in the space we're in, the sounds occurring around us. It helps to keep us present and out of the ‘what if’ mindset,” Kanshin adds. Kitt merely nods in acceptance of this explanation. “We will start small today with a five minute meditation. And then we can talk about the experience if you like and go from there.”

“What if I feel nothing?” Kitt sounds worried. He fears he doesn't feel much outside of the negative and depressing feelings. What if I'm broken? Kitt wonders to himself.

“That's ok. Sometimes you will feel very little. And sometimes you will feel overwhelmed. I've seen an array of reactions from people learning to meditate.  But each person I have taught always seems to feel lighter after they've truly given the practice a chance. There's really no wrong way to do it.” Kitt takes a deep breath. The idea that he can't fail relaxes him.

“Ok.” Kitt says. “I guess let's try this.” Dani reaches for one of Kitt’s hands and gives it a squeeze hoping to reassure him. He squeezes back before letting go.

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 7. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

During the sparring scene between Kai and Dani in this chapter, I kept hearing 'No Turning Back' by LAGA in my head. I'm well aware it's an AI generated song. But in my mind it speaks to Dani's character to much referring to her past and how she pushes through more than we know at this point in the story. Enjoy!

Dani runs through the city streets. Her feet beat against the ground. The feeling is, well, grounding. Her lungs burn, pleading for her to stop. But she keeps going. She passes familiar shops along the way. This only makes her run faster as if running from the memories that threaten to come rushing back. She only stops when she reaches the manor she once called home and finally pauses to catch her breath. 

She knows she should keep running. It feels haunting to just stand on the sidewalk looking up at this house. That’s all it is to her now. A house. The place was once where she and Declan spent their days, when they weren’t at the castle while their parents worked. She can almost see a ghost of a memory. The two of them running around the yard. Laughing. They were happy. Then there is a bang and Dani’s attention snaps back to reality. She nearly jumps off the ground as she turns her head towards the sound. It’s a crate being carelessly dropped on the ground at a nearby manor. A delivery. Then she feels a sharp pain shoot up the back of her neck and into her head. She’s been ignoring it for days but it’s getting harder. They’re getting closer. And because of this she’s been more jumpy in the last few days. She’s been on high alert and very aware of her surroundings. Although, it doesn’t seem like anyone has noticed. Dani rubs at her neck before she begins running again.

She makes her way back to the castle grounds and strides into the gardens. As she passes the fountain she sees servants knee deep in the water shoveling out shillings. He’s keeping the promise he told her about. She smiles to herself as she jogs past.

Dani slows her stride as she approaches the training rings. Kitt and Kai are sparing. Not with blades or abilities. Just fists. Paedyn watches from the side. It seems like they've been at it for a while. Both Azer brothers clearly lost their shirts long ago, both slick with sweat. And Dani can't seem to stop tracking Kitt’s movements. He’s definitely put on muscle since they were ten. Kitt lands a punch and Kai’s head whips to the side. As he recovers, he spots Dani.

“Hey, Dani!” Kai calls to her. “Want to join the fun?” Dani shrugs as she makes her way over to the ring. 

“I’m perfectly content to watch.” Dani says as she swipes at the sweat threatening to fall into her eyes.

“Oh, come on. You used to spar with us all the time. Have you stopped since then?” Kai teases. Kitt just shakes his head, almost silently begging his brother to stop.

“No, I dabble,” Dani replies. A humble response when in truth she can be quite deadly. The Azer brothers have no idea just how much she’s improved since sparring with them as kids. 

“Well, choose your weapon.” Kai urges and gestures towards the weapons wrack.

“Kai,” Kitt and Paedyn warn in unison.

“No.” Dani snaps before softening her voice. “It’s ok. Let’s play.” She finishes as she tilts her head ever so slightly. Something shifts in her eyes as they remain on Kai accepting his challenge. For a second, Kai takes note of the sharpness that flashes across Dani’s features. Dani practically saunters over to the weapon’s wrack. She takes her time looking over her options until she settles on a set of twin blades. Lighter than a sword and just as deadly, if wielded properly. The twin swords always felt like a sharp deadly extension of her arms.

Before everything went to absolute shit and she sparred with Declan, Kitt, and Kai, Dani always tried to wield a sword like they did. All three boys were already physically stronger than she. It wasn’t until a few years later that she realized that since she wasn’t like the boys then she wouldn’t fight like the boys.

No, most male fighters easily had 30-50 pounds of solid muscle on her. So, she would adapt. Lean into her own strengths. She was nimble, quick, and never tired easily. So, Dani would always stay just out of her opponents reach, relying on her footwork to dance around them, wearing them down, tiring them out. That is until she spotted a deadly blow. And that’s what she did now as she sparred with Kai.

He attacked. She easily dodged. Dodged so quickly that she had him spinning on his heels more often than we cared for. She would goad him just enough to keep him attacking before she returned to defense to continue this little dance. Of course, she wasn’t going to hurt Kai. She didn’t want to. Along the way they both tossed the twin blades aside in favor of smaller daggers. As they sparred there were a few close calls for each of them. That is until Kai froze with one of his blades near Dani’s throat. He huffed a laugh thinking he won the match. He is the Enforcer after all. It isn’t until Dani nods downwards, carefully, that he sees one of her own blades hovering mere inches from his kidney. A fatal blow, should it land.

Kai’s gaze returns to Dani. “What?” Dani asks innocently. “If I can’t win, I’ll take you with me.” She smiles to emphasize she is teasing. Kai lets a chuckle slip as they both lower their daggers.

“You’ve improved,” Kai says before slowly adding, "tremendously. Want to keep going?”

“Sorry, Brother.” Kitt calls. “I have to steal her away. She and I are meeting with Kanshin in an hour.”

“Yea, and I’d really like to wash the stink off me. Seems rude to subject him to this.” Dani gestures to her sweaty self before turning to head back into the castle.

Walking side by side, Kitt and Dani enjoy the quiet together. Kitt quite likes that he doesn’t feel pressured to fill the void with empty conversation when he’s with Dani. But he eventually breaks the silence when he says, “The closer this session gets the more I want to run from it.”

“Why?” She asks simply.

“I don’t know.” He responds as he shoves his hands in this pockets. He wants to feel better. Wants to feel like himself again even if that isn't quite who he was before his father's death. He's very much still figuring himself out. At the same time he’s just tired. Tired of being fussed over. Tired of feeling useless. Then Kitt adds as he looks at her from the side, "but I’m glad you’re going with me."

“Kanshin won’t bite.” Dani replies looking back at him.

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 6. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way.

Kitt sits in his study. It’s late. He still scribbles down his thoughts on parchment. But he finds that his thoughts aren’t as erratic as they once were. Perhaps it was the Plague destroying his mind and sanity more so than he tends to think. He’s not sure. He also isn’t sure of Dani's response to his question in the garden about redemption. Why would she be interested in the answer to his question? Has she too committed horrible acts? Nevertheless, he writes.

She’s practically a stranger. It’s been almost 10 years. She feels different and familiar at the same time. Who is she now? Why did she come back? Did she know I was dying? Why does it feel like she's trying stay distant? Like she's holding back.

Kitt lights a flame in his palm. It still feels like his flame and yet a little different. It feels restless, alive, like it wants to break loose. For a second he feels it thrash before he lets it go out. Maybe that is why she once feared it. Maybe she could help him understand it better. He keeps writing.

Kai told me today that he will track down a Soul rumored to be within the city. Souls are extremely rare. I don’t know that I care or that I even want to meet this Soul, should he find them. What good would it do? Maybe I should stay open to the idea. For Kai.

— — — — — —

Dani spent her morning ensuring her bag is packed and ready in case she needs to make a quick exit. But her thoughts are torn over whether she should run or stay - choosing the latter would potentially cause harm. They will find her. They always do. Between the whispered rumors around the castle and the small exchanges with Kai, Dani has concluded that Kitt is in a far more fragile state than she realized. Not weak. Hurting. Having lost the illusion of his father, wanting to prove himself to be greater, and fearing losing Kai as well, the Plague he so willingly took only seemed to amplify his spiraling feelings until it was out of his control. The Plague is what gave the Ilyans their gifts but it was the raw power of a second dose that tore Kitt apart.

Soon enough Dani’s stomach is growling at her and she realizes it is almost time for lunch. She skipped breakfast, again. So, she sneaks down to the kitchens hoping to snatch something without being noticed. As she approaches the kitchens, she can smell cured meats and the smell of freshly baked bread. Perfect. She’ll discreetly make a sandwich and sneak right back out. Easy.

Wrong.

She barely makes it past the doors when she hears, “Ms. Dani Jaxson! You’ve been in this castle for over a week and you have yet to come say hello!” Gail practically yells at Dani. The shock alone has Dani freezing mid stride.

“Hi, Gail,” Dani says shyly. “It’s been a while.”

“A while!? It’s been ten years, Dani. Ten! Come here. Let me take a look at you.” Gail rounds the counter and holds Dani still by the arms. “No. This won’t due. Sit,” Gail says sternly while shaking her head. Dani obeys without a question. “Let me make you a proper meal!”

“That’s ok. Really, Gail. I’m fine. I can do it.” Dani says timidly.

Gail says, “Absolutely not” as she practically smacks Dani’s hand that reaches for the bread. Dani pulls back her hand quickly. That’s when she hears snickering behind her. She turns. Not to see one Azer brother but two Azer brothers standing in the doorway.

“Oh, you’re in trouble now Dani,” says Kitt with the biggest smile Dani has yet to see on his face since she's returned.

“Oh, Kitty. She’s not in trouble. I just worry.” Then Gail turns her attention back to Dani. “I haven’t seen you for one single meal Ms. Jaxson. Not one. Why is that?”

“Yea, Dani. Why is that?” Kai comments with a smirk. Dani shoots him a glare before turning back to Gail. “I don’t want to be a bother,” Dani says.

“Nonsense!” Gail replies. “You're our guest. Let me take care of that hungry stomach. I heard it growl when you entered the kitchen. It gave you away.” Kai and Kitt both laugh at this. Dani dips her head and shields her face with a hand to hide the smile tugging at her lips.

“Don’t listen to them.” Paedyn Gray enters the kitchen and smacks Kai’s arm before saying hello to Gail and then stands in front of Dani. “We haven’t had a chance to meet properly. I’m Paedyn.”

“Hi, Paedyn,” is all Dani can manage when the thought of Paedyn technically being Kitt’s wife rushes back to her mind, making her cringe inside for reasons she doesn’t understand. But the tension between Kitt and Paedyn doesn’t go unnoticed. With the bit she’s gleaned from the rumors and conversation with Kitt, anyone could see why. It seems a divorce is great for everyone involved.

Everyone gathers around the table as Gail makes sandwiches for the group. They talk idly. An occasional laugh is shared. As the meal concludes Gail says, “It’s so nice to have you back Dani. You were always such a sweet helper to have in the kitchen.”

“I don’t know, Gail. I’m a pretty far cry from the girl you used to know,” Dani replies with a half smile before quickly staring down at her plate. It’s a twisted truth hiding something much darker. But Gail smiles anyway as she says, “well, you’re always welcome here.” Then she squeezes Dani’s shoulder lightly before she begins to collect the plates.

As Dani goes to get up from her chair a hand catches her wrist. Gentle but firm. She turns to a pair of green eyes. “Hey, Dani.” Kitt says before letting her go. “What are you up to today?”

“I don’t know. Reading maybe. Just killing time. I’m actually not sure what to do with myself,” she says.

“Well, that makes two of us.” Kitt rubs the back of his neck. There's that nervous habit.

“Really? I figured you would be busy from sun up to sun down,” Dani replies.

“Kai’s been urging me to take it easy for now and has been handling most of what needs attention. Quite honestly, I hate it. Feeling useless.” There’s a level of anger to his voice. Maybe it’s frustration. But then his voice softens slightly, “Would you want to hang out for a while? Kill time together?”

With a smile she fights to hold back Dani nods. Together they walk out of the kitchen.

— — — — —

Kai walks into the main entrance of the castle with an older man at this side. He leads the man up towards Kitt’s study. When he arrives at the door, he knocks. “Come in,” he hears Kitt say. Kai and the older man walk-in. The older man looks around the room until his eyes land on Dani.

“Dani?” the man says not believing his eyes. Dani lowers the book she is reading and looks where the voice came from.

“Kanshin?” Dani’s eyes go wide. She slowly rises from her seat.

“You two know each other?” Kitt asks curiously. 

Breathing out a laugh Dani happily says, “yes, um, he was my instructor before I… you know, left.” She approaches the man who holds his arms open as she embraces him with a firm hug. She says as she pulls away, “he coached me to harness my flame instead of fearing it.” She doesn’t mention her Siphon ability. No, Kanshin wasn’t aware of that gift. But the lessons he taught her about acknowledging her fear and preventing it from controlling her increased her control of both gifts.

“It’s been too long, Dani.” Kanshin smiles as he gently places his hands on her shoulders. Then he turns his attention to Kitt. ”Your Majesty.” He says with a bow. “It’s an honor.”

Kitt rises. Donning the appearance of a gracious ruler, Kitt says, “Kanshin, I can assure you, the honor is mine.” Even though he has schooled his features, Dani senses Kitt has been dreading this encounter. He extends his hand for a shake and Kanshin accepts it without a second thought. “Dani’s obvious satisfaction of your guidance reassures me that I’ll be learning quite a lot from you.” He turns to Dani, “maybe you can accompany me during my first few sessions.” His tone carries a fear of rejection. But Dani accepts with a small smile and a nod.

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 5. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Kitt walks through the castle halls. It’s been a few days since Dani revealed what she truly was and he hasn’t seen much of her since. He could understand why her parents feared for her and ran. He had been wrapped up with the Healers poking and prodding him trying to understand how Dani did what she did. Naturally, Kitt declared everyone in the castle be sworn to secrecy about Dani’s power, for the time being. He wondered how she was doing. He couldn't help but worry that he wasn’t worth the risk she endured to save him - trying something she hadn’t before. It could have hurt her. And for what? A monster, he thinks.

Aside from being caught up with the Healers, Kitt hadn’t seen Dani at any of the meals Gail has served. He made it clear to Dani that she could roam the castle. She was his guest after all (not to mention the one who pulled him away from Death). 

Death. Dani cheated Death. That can’t be good. Does Dani even know what she's done? Kitt wonders. He doesn't remember every exchange he had with Death while he was dying, but he remembers angering her. He shakes his head of the thought knowing he’ll think more on it later.

Eventually, Kitt found his way to the door that led to the room Dani was staying in. He raises a fist to knock but freezes. What was he going to say? Before he could think better of it the door opens and there stands Dani. The two stand in the doorway before Dani finally breaks the silence.

“I could sense you coming,” she says simply. “I hope that didn’t sound more weird than it felt coming out of my mouth.” She blushes, slightly embarrassed.

“No, I’m used to that with Kai. I guess I need to get used to that with you, too,” Kitt offers a small smile. Dani smiles but inside she thinks that Kitt won’t need to get used to anything because she’ll be gone before he knows it. But she steps aside to let Kitt in. He walks past her and notices she smells of lemongrass and honey. “How are you feeling?” Kitt finally manages as he takes in the space. Of course, it's quite bare, offering nothing for him to take in that would tell him more about Dani. Kitt finds he's disappointed. But why? She's been here about week, not years.

“Better.” Dani says. “A little stiff but otherwise good. And you?” She leaves the door open so no one gets any ideas if they saw him enter.

“Same. A little stiff.” He pauses, then hesitates. “Are you sure? I haven’t seen you at any of the group meals. I was starting to worry.”

Dani feels a slight blush forming on her cheeks. She’s not sure why. Maybe it’s because she hasn’t felt as though anyone has truly cared for her well-being in a long time. “Um, yea. I didn’t want to cause more of a fuss. A Siphon tends to make people feel uneasy. But I’ve been sneaking into the kitchens every now and then. Dodging Gail in the process.” 

Kitt manages a chuckle before saying sincerely, “She would love to see you. Gail, that is.” He trails off.

“I don’t know. It’s been so long.” A long silence stretches between them. 

Then suddenly Kitt asks as he rubs the back of his neck. A fidgety habit Dani almost forgot he had. "You want to get out of here? Go for a walk, maybe in the garden? Just get some fresh air?”

Dani ponders before answering with a small smile, “Sure. That sounds nice.”

When they arrive at the gardens Kitt remembers that many of the flowers are dying. Autumn is approaching. Winter won’t be far behind. But the sun is shining bouncy off Dani’s golden blonde hair. There's a touch of red almost making her a strawberry blonde, as if she's been kissed by a flame, Kitt thinks. She has blue eyes though they are not grey like Kai's. Nor are the a deep blue like Paedyn's. They are somewhere in between. Maybe turquoise. As if sensing him staring at her, Dani asks, “So, aside from becoming king and almost dying from the plague, what else is new in your world?”

Kitt let’s loose a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “Too much,” he finally admits, his tone sad. He runs a hand through his hair nervously. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes recently. Some, unspeakable,” he says. There's a touch of sadness lingering in his voice. He can’t seem to make eye contact with her. But then his tone shifts as he says, “I got married.”

Dani tries to school her features as she echos, “Married? Ok. Congratulations? You don't sound incredibly happy.” She smiles slightly even though she feels a tugging in her chest at the news. It shouldn’t matter. She won’t be here long. It’s not like she can afford to get attached. 

They stop at the fountain. Kitt continues before he can stop himself, “Because I'm not happy. Her name is Paedyn. She’s in love with my brother. And he loves her. But that’s ok because just yesterday I learned she’s also my half sister. I will spare you the details." And the details of Death he thinks. "But I’m definitely devorcing her. Oh, and she also killed my father. I’ve learned how terrible he is. It’s left me wondering why I ever tried so hard to impress him.” He hangs his head when he finishes.

Dani nods slowly as she takes it all in then finally says, “So, a lot has happened. Got it.” Her tone is gentle - not making light of all he’s recently experienced.

“Yea. And as much as I want to blame the Plague for my actions I can’t help but wonder if I’m no better than he was. Worse even.” Kitt struggles to say the last bit. “I just wanted to be more than him. Better than him.” His voice breaks. “I don’t want to be a monster.” He whispers.

Dani can understand this last desire.

“You are,” Dani declares without a waiver. Kitt finally looks up to meet her gaze terrified at her words. “Oh, no. I meamt yoy are better than him,” she clarifies. She continues slowly. “My parents, grown adults, ran from him because of his hate for anything that didn’t fit his perfect Elite society. You might not have had the option to run but that alone is why I see strength in you, Kitt. You were a child that kept his heart kind in the face of so much hate.” She pauses before continuing. “All too easily I’ve seen people let fear poison them. Fill their hearts with hate." She is no exception. "You have not only endured him but you kept your heart open, kind, loving. At least the version I knew way back when did.” Referring to the near decade she’s missed. “That takes not just strength but courage, too.”

A long silence passes between them as they both stand still watching the fountain. “You know, once I promised to distribute the coins in this fountain to those struggling in the Slums,” Kitt says.

“Why haven’t you?” Dani asks.

“I don’t know," Kitt responds distantly as if he's lost in thought. They stay quiet for a bit longer. Dani doesn't mind. She appreciates the calm of this moment. She hasn't had many like this in, well, too long.

Looking at Dani from the corner of his eye Kitt asks, “Do you think someone who’s done so much bad in the world can be redeemed?”

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 4. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Part 4 is a bit long. Sorry. It felt necessary to get all this detail down.

“A siphon?” Kai repeats back to Dani.

Dani stares blankly at him before saying, “yup.”

Cocking his head slightly Kai says, “I’ve never interacted with a siphon before.”

“But you have,” Dani replies. “I really don’t know how you didn’t realize it. But then again you were nine when my family fled.” 

Kai just stares in silence before responding with, “Well, I want to hear more but I know Kitt will want to hear this first hand from you, too.” He starts to walk toward the door. Dani doesn’t move. Kai turns and asks, “Well? Are you coming?”

Dani raises her wrists shaking the chains while shaking her head as if to say are you going to remove these? Kai gets the message but responds by saying, “Not yet. Let’s go. He wants to see you.”

Kai leads Dani through the corridors. Ones she’s familiar with. Not much has changed in the 10 years she’s been gone. They go up a flight of stairs and suddenly reach the king’s chambers. Dani has never seen the inside. She really hasn’t spent much time in this part of the castle. Kai opens the door and extends his arm as if to tell Dani to go inside. Dani steps through the door hesitantly. Kitt is no longer in the bed but rather lounging on a couch. When his eyes land on Dani he jumps to his feet. He wobbles slightly before gaining his balance. His face still looks gaunt, tired, and a bit hollow. It will take time for him to recover properly. But he’s alive.

“Dani,” Kitt says by way of greeting, not sure what to make of her. 

“Kitt,” she replies. There’s almost a sense of relief in her voice. Then she coughs. She didn’t expect it but it has her buckling over. Kitt practically lunges at her as Kai also grabs her arm to steady Dani.

“Please tell me I didn’t infect you,” Kitt says. Fear and guilt lacing his voice.

“No,” Dani replies as she catches her breath. “It’s more like I’m feeling an echo of the symptoms you felt. It will pass,” she reassures.

Kitt visibly relaxes and gestures to the couch silently asking her to sit. She does but there is clearly hesitation. Kitt sees the shackles on Dani’s wrists.

“Kai, will you please remove those from her wrists? Plagues. She saved me. I hardly think she’s going to hurt me.” Kai raises his eyebrows to this as if he’s telepathically asking Kitt if he’s sure. A moment passes when Kai removes the shackles. Dani rubs her wrists before looking at Kitt.

When she does look Kitt over, Dani whispers in astonishment, “it worked.” More to herself but she doesn’t care if they hear.

“Ok, Dani. Tell Kitt what you told me and we’ll go from there,” Kai says sitting opposite of Kitt and Dani. So, she does.

“So, what? Is a Siphon like a Wielder?” Kitt asks.

“Kind of but also no,” Dani responds, scrunching her face, dreading to explain further. “Kai’s Wielding ability allows him to borrow another’s ability. But mine…” she hesitates. “My ability enables me to steal someone’s power.” Kitt nods slightly as if he understands. Surprisingly, Dani doesn’t sense any judgement before she continues. “So, when I saved you, I basically siphoned the plague from your body, pushed it through mine, and shot it into the fire.”

“But how did you heal the wound?” Kitt asks with pure curiosity. A trait Dani always loved in him.

“Let me back track,” Dani says. She takes another shaky breath to quell the fear that wants to smother her. That makes her want to get up and run. But she looks Kitt in the eye as she continues. “My Siphon ability is the reason my family fled nearly 10 years ago. My parent’s weren’t aware of any other known Siphons and they feared I’d be seen as a Fatal.” And everyone in the room knew how Fatals were treated. “When we settled in Dor we kept to ourselves but my parents continued working with me to harness my control of both abilities. Before that point, when I was even younger I feared myself. I couldn’t control either ability and both have the potential to be so destructive. And if I siphon too much power from someone, if I can’t let go…well,” Dani swallows, “it’s not good.” Kitt still looks at her with understanding. Him being a Dual with a Blazer element only makes him more empathetic since he also had to learn control over an aggressive element. While he may seem understanding, Dani can sense he’s different. Like there is a wall now. He seems willing to listen. But she’s not sure if he will let her in.

“Part of that training included learning how to transfer power. When I siphon power from someone I need to use it almost immediately or it withers because it’s not really mine. But I can store it. Like in those crystals.” That’s when it dawns on her. “Where are my other crystals?” She looks to Kai.

“Safe,” Kai responds plainly. Dani huffs at this as she shakes her head and looks back at Kitt.

“My father was always willing to be the person I practiced with. I would take a portion of his power and push it into the crystals. The one I used to heal your wound was the last crystal I had that contained some of his Healing ability.” Dani breaks eye contact with Kitt and instead stares at her hands. It’s been some time since she has spoken of her parents. Her brother, too. Now she fights back tears.

“Dani,” is all Kitt can muster, his voice barely a whisper. “Is that why you were so standoff-ish when we were younger? You were afraid to hurt someone.” The latter was more of a realization instead of a question. Dani nods ever so slightly. Still afraid to look up. Afraid of how Kitt and Kai might see her now. The it hits him. "Where is your family, Dani? Your brother, Declan?"

Dani can't bring her gaze to his as she chokes the word out, "dead. Can we not go there fight now?" A long moment stretches.

She hastily wipes a tear that escapes her eye as she looks up again. “Anyway, you see, I don’t need physical contact to siphon power. It makes it easier but proximity is enough,” the fear is clear in her voice. “And since Declan was a Tele and Blair too, well it made it easy to pass myself off as such.”

“But the crystal and siphoning the plague wasn’t enough, was it Dani?” Kai asks. Dani looks at him. “You did one more thing. But you looked terrified to try.”

“Becuase I’ve never done it before. I didn’t know if it would work but it felt like a last ditch effort” she shrugs. She glances toward Kitt.

“What did you do?” Kitt asks, still with nothing but curiosity.

“I… I don’t know. I reversed siphoned?” It’s practically a question on her lips. “Even after the healing and pulling the Plague from your body you were still fading. So, I pushed some of my Blazer ability into you.” Kitt’s eyes widened at that. Then he raises his palm and seems to be focusing. That’s when a flame appears. A blue flame. Small right now until he can regain his strength. But a blue flame none the less.

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 3. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. There is a reference to TOG as well because of a certain quote I love sooo much. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Dani wakes in a bed she doesn’t remember falling asleep in. In a room she doesn’t recognize. Her head throbs. Her body aches. A small stream of light peaks through the curtains and even that feels too bright. Is this how Kitt felt? She wonders to herself. She moves to sit up but her wrist feel heavy. Heavy because she is chained. At least just her wrists. But panic begins to set in her chest anyway. She hates the feeling of being restrained. Chained. Trapped.

Dani realizes these chains are special. She knows because she can’t feel her abilities. These chains are laced with that rare Mute material developed by Ilya’s Scholars. She knows things could be much worse but she still ponders through what her next move will be. Surely she won’t be kept here forever.

Then the door swings open, interrupting her thoughts on possible ways to escape.

Kai walks in. He doesn’t look happy but he doesn’t look riddled with grief either. Kitt must be alive, Dani thinks. Dani doesn’t move as Kai pulls up a chair and sits a safe distance away from her. 

“How did you do it?” Kai asks.

“Care to elaborate?” Dani responds plainly.

“How did you save my brother? How did you save Kitt?” He pauses. “The Healers and Scholars confirmed he was dying - that he couldn't be saved” Kai says that last bit sharply as if the idea of Kitt’s death is painful.

“It’s complicated,” Dani responds. “Is he awake?” She swallows as the words leave her mouth, feeling her stomach threatening to heave whatever acid it may contain. “How long have I been here?” She asks.

“You both have been asleep for a few days. But he woke up this morning” Kai says realizing she’s likely dehydrated just as Kitt was. He hands her a glass of water. “Here. It’s the least I can do.”

“You could remove these shackles.” Dani mentions as she brings the cup to her mouth and drinks.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” It’s quiet for a while as Dani clasps the cup staring at the water inside.

“So, how did you do it?”

“Does it matter? He’s alive.”

“Before your family was banished,” Kai starts before Dani cuts him off.

“We weren’t banished!”

Clearly she's offended. Kai pauses to pick his next words carefully. “Ok. Before you disappeared, we thought your Dual abilities were of a Blaze and a Tele. But what I saw you do to save Kitt is not something either of those gifts can do. So, enlighten me because how you used your gifts, whatever they may be, it felt…odd to me.”

Dani takes a shaky breath. The truth is the very reason her family fled Ilya almost 10 years ago. And she fears the truth will only extend her current imprisonment now. She tries to remember that Kai and Kitt are not their father. At least they weren’t when she knew them. Kai especially with how Dani saw the late king treat him in the few moments she saw them together.

Dani and her family didn’t live in the castle but they did live in one of the mansions nearby in the city. She and her twin brother, Declan, visited the castle frequently when her mother and father would be working as a Scholar and Healer. Declan and Dani often ran around the castle with Kitt, Kai, and the other children. She and Declan even attended some of Kitt's etiquette and diplomacy lessons with him since they were the same age. The four of them would spar in the training rings. Often Dani would have her butt kicked by the boys and would get frustrated. Often walking off before her mother convinced her to not yield to the boys.

'Show me your flame.' Her mother would demand. 'Look at that. You carry wildfire, Dani. It burns hotter than most flames. Not much can extinguish it. Wildfire does not yield. And neither do you.'

So she would repeat those words whenever she wanted to give up. Lived by them. 'You do not yield. You do not quit.' So, she kept showing up. Even if it was to get her butt kicked.

“Dani," Kai's voice snaps her from the memory.

“What?!” she snaps. “Are you going to torture it out of me?”

“Don’t test me,” is all Kai says while glaring at her. She remains quiet before Kai says as his glare softens to a gaze, “Dani, please.”

Disclaimer: Welcome to Relentless - Part 2. Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There are a few OCs. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

Kitt wakes with a jolt. He’s in his bed. How did he get in his bed? He should be under the willow. He was dying. He saw Death push the fire poker Kai held into his chest. 

“You’re awake,” says Kai slumped in a chair next to Kitt’s bed. 

“I am.” Kitt replies. His voice is heavy with disbelief. “How?” asks Kitt as his voice breaks.

“You’ve been asleep for days now. Here.” Kai says as he hands Kitt a glass of water. He helps Kitt raise it to his mouth. Surely the lack of food, water, and well enduring the Plague has left his body feeling weak.

“Kai.” Kitt says lowering the glass. Tears begin to well up in his green eyes. “I’m so sorry” he says as his voice breaks again. “I… can’t remember much. I know I wasn’t” he pauses as he tries to remember. “I know I wasn’t well. I forgot myself.”

“It will be ok, Kitt,” Kai assures. 

“No” Kitt snaps harder than he intended. He takes a breath to calm himself. “I… I know I did some terrible things. I just can’t remember. How can I even begin to…” His tears fall. Kai pulls his brother into a hug. One Kitt needed far more than Kai could know. After taking another breath Kitt says, “I just wanted my brother back.”

Kai pulls Kitt back to see his face as he says, “you never lost me. And now I’m going to make sure you know that. Remember that. You’re my brother. I love you. All I know is that I almost lost you and I can’t… I can’t lose you.”

Kitt huffs a laugh. “How can you love a monster?”

Kai pauses for a moment. “Kitt. You were ill. Yes, you may need to right some massive wrongs.” He forces a small smile on his face. “But you don’t need to face this alone, Kitt. You’re not alone.”

“But you will always choose her. I remember that much.” Kitt finds it easier to admit now that his mind is clear of the Plague that tore at his mind and soul.

“I love you both,” Kai replies quickly. “I can love you both. I need you to know that I will always be there. You are not alone.”

There’s a long silence between the brothers before Kitt says, “I know I was delirious but I could have sworn I saw Dani. But that can’t be possible. Her family was exiled nearly 10 years ago.”

“Yea, they were,” replies Kai. “But you did see her.” He pauses for a moment. “Kitt. Dani saved you. I still don’t understand how she did it. But she saved you.” A tear of relief falls down Kai’s face.

“Where is she?” Kitt exclaims as he sits straight up in his bed. Practically springing up with energy he doesn’t have.

“Relax, Brother,” Kai says, trying to get Kitt to lie back down. “I had her placed into a room. One that used to be used for the Trial contestants. Guarded, of course, since we don’t really know anything about why she came or how she did what she did.”

“I want to see her as soon as possible.” Kitt demands. While his voice is stern his eyes remain glossy with tears, confusion, and a thousand questions.

“It might be a little while,” Kai replies. “She passed out while healing you. She hasn’t woken up yet as far as I know.”

Disclaimer: Clearly I don’t own the characters from the Powerless universe. I just wanted to play in this world. There will be a few OCs along the way. I couldn’t accept Kitt’s fate so I’m writing this AU story to get this out of my head. Warnings: I’m expecting this story to take some dark turns and may have some adult content along the way. Mentions of torture, suicidal thoughts, broken boundaries, depression, etc.

She races through the castle corridors. The castle she hasn’t visited in nearly 10 years. Her training enables her to avoid the attention of the guards. It’s not very hard. It’s clear something terrible is taking place as panic begins to flood the castle staff.

She riffles through her pack slung over her shoulder in search of something that may just save him. The life she was sent to save.

Rounding the corner and halting in the doorframe of the study, his study, she freezes in front of a gruesome sight as she hears him say, “I’ll go gently. For you.”

“Like hell” she says.

Kai looks up. Fear and confusion stricken across his face as Dani drops to Kitt’s other side. “Not today,” she says. But she’s not looking at Kitt or Kai as she says this. No, she’s looking towards the fireplace as she pulls a glowing crystal from her bag. She quickly drains the crystal of its energy and then places a hand on Kitt's chest. Kai watches in shock as the energy flows from the crystal into Kitt, closing the wound from the fire poker. Then Dani swings herself on top of Kitt for leverage as she keeps her hand planted firmly on his chest.

His eyes are fluttering. Fighting to stay open. She closes her eyes and focuses. Suddenly a dark purple, almost black smoke transpires and passes from Kitt’s chest into Dani hand, up her arm, and into her body. She raises her other hand and aims at the burning fire in the fireplace. The smoke shoots out of her hand and into the fire. The fire erupts burning hotter than before. When the smoke ceases it is clear that it’s not enough. He’s still fading.

She didn’t come all this way to fail. Didn’t risk her life for this to be for nothing.

An idea pops into her head. She hasn’t tried this before. She doesn’t know if it will work. But if she doesn’t try he’ll die. Right here. Images of her past flash before her eyes. No. Not again she thinks to herself.

She takes a quick deep breath and recenters her focus. This time on her flame. Yes, she’s a Dual. But oddly uncommon as only one of her abilities is an element. Fire. Wildfire. Her flame naturally burns a bright blue instead of the more common orange flame. While her other ability… well, there is no time right now.