Dododex

ARK: Survival Evolved & Ascended Companion

Of Kin

Act II: Blizzard

Chapter 10

Inimicus dropped, exauhsted, in front of Ogon's feet. The heat of the volcano was a welcome relief to him. Ogon watched him catch his breath for a second before wrapping his talons around the young argent's neck. Inimicus didn't move. To flinch was to show weakness; to try and break free was a challenge. "Inimicus," Ogon's voice boomed, "Where is my daughter?"

Inimucus tried to swallow, but heat and fear dried his throat. "Commander-"

"When you asked to be my daughter's mate, I asked something of you."

The argents of Infernal Kin perched like vultures on the volcano's mouth, waiting eagerly for Inimicus's response. "Yes, commander. That's correct."

"What did I ask of you, soldier?"

"You asked," Inimicus nearly choked on his words, "that I always bring her back safely."

Ogon nodded slowly, "So I'll ask again. Where is Ira?"

Tears filled Inimicus's eyes. "She's dead." He closed his eyes, unable to meet Ogon's gaze. Ogon stared at him silently for a moment. "And where is my second in command Tishima?"

"Also dead, commander."

Ogon's calm tone grew suddenly furious. "And who is yo blame?! Scarlet's Kin?!" The vultures cawed out furiously, stirred by the accusation.

"Actually commander, it was a titanoboa."

Ogon twisted his head around, obviously surprised by that information. "A boa?"

"Yes, sir. An enormous one. I've never seen a snake so large, but I promise, I'll-"

"Forget the snake!" Ogon snarled. "Scarlet's Kin is our focus. Once they're gone, we can move on to the other flocks, and take the Island little by little."

There were more caws of approval. Ogon released Inimicus. "We'll take the redwoods as our new base of operations. And seeing as I need a new second in command, you will be taking Tishima's place, Inimicus."

Inimicus winced. This wasn't a promotion, this was punishment. He would be expected to face every bloody battle head on without hesitation. Ogon was going to use his new postion to make Inimicus pay for Ira's death.

[TRIVIA: Ogon is Russian for "fire." Tishima is Russian for "silence."]

~CL1