The Cad eyed the doe-eyed, dark-complexioned woman handing him the crossbow.  He never knew her name - not even before the mindkillers had come.  But her nonchalant, almost apathetic demeanor was what had caught his eye the first time he'd seen her.  She was really lovely - a true specimen of exotic womanhood.  And, for the life of him, he was certain he'd never been by her side... or in her nest.  That would change tonight, he told himself.  Of course, he'd have to find some way of piercing her apathy.  And that would be half the fun.<br/><br/>He took the crossbow and quiver with a nod of appreciation, looking her in the eyes a moment to show he meant even more with that simple gesture.<br/><br/>Then he looked about at the assembly of hunters and retrievers.  Onyx and Mina had picked women that looked strong, able, and smart.  He'd heard them exchanging names from a distance... with memories that strong, they'd be very useful on the hunt.<br/><br/>Then Ted showed up.  Damn.  Ted the Toad, the Cad secretly called him.  The man had no sense of decency.  He took his position of value - as a male - far too much to heart, and it showed blatantly in his every move and word.  The blood staining his manhood - and the extension of it in his hand - did not do anything to lighten Zeref's heart at that moment.  But he also didn't want to start an argument.<br/><br/>"Fine, Ted.  Stick to the rear and keep a lookout."  He looked at Onyx.  "My dear Master Hunter, do please lead the way."  He clanked open the east gate and awaited the advance of their party.