[IC] [Beneath a moonless sky] 18+ [Arista x Earlymorninstar]

[earlymorninstar]

Despite being able to conceal it, Christian was quite aggravated that others had been listening in on their conversation the night before. He'd no idea just what had been heard, or if word would travel, but he'd made a mental note to keep his private conversations far from lingering ears. There'd been too many people in that household and without a doubt, those wolves probably could hear everything… He'd sighed over his cup of coffee before bringing it to his lips for a slow sip. This was going to be a long day, he already knew it – at least Kieran seemed less than happy that morning. Good – he'd rather the man be miserable over the whole ordeal. He'd put himself in that mess, and he needed to get himself out of it or Christian would make sure that he and Clara would be long gone.

Clara had just come downstairs amongst all of the banter and had only glanced towards Kieran when he'd left. She'd stifled a yawn as she approached the kitchen to fetch herself some coffee before she lazily sunk in one of the chairs. The tension on the air was heavy, and yet, she had no idea of the cause of it.

Her brow raised as she eyed Christian who m seemed suspiciously calm. She'd seen that look before and she frowned over it. He'd done something that she probably wouldn't like and he was playing the innocent party. As all had soon left the table, Clara looked over to him with a glare and kicked his shin beneath the table. He'd only looked up at her with his own brow raised. "What was that for?"

"Don’t play innocent." Clara suddenly hissed, her words in low whispers as not to let anyone else hear. "What'd you do?"

"What do you mean?" He gave a huff as he leaned back in his chair, crossing his legs. "And why do you think I'm involved in anything? I don't know any of these people, remember?"

"Oh, stuff it." She bit out again. "You did something last night, and I swear to god if you've screwed anything up around here…"

"What could I possibly screw up, Clara? Unless you know something I don't know." He wasn't supposed to know about her sire being under the same roof at the moment, but then again, Christian was more than perceptive. If her instincts were right- it absolutely had something to do with that, and she wouldn't hold anything past Christian to stir up some trouble. She'd not answered him, the frown remaining on her lips as she stood up suddenly, the coffee still in her hand.

"Whatever, Christian – I'm not going to play your little game." He'd only shrugged in return as he watched her rise. She'd turned on her heel and left him then, deciding to wander the mansion in the meantime – anything to keep busy and keep her mind off of it.

@Arista

[Arista]

“Worrying won't do you any good.” The smooth voice had Ryanair glancing away from the trees he'd been watching, emerald eyes blinked when Esther sat at his side. The wolves were play-fighting, their snarls and huffs filling the silence. The blonde didn't feel like talking, since he'd awoken something had felt off and he couldn't figure out why.

Esther hummed softly and settled her hands on the grey trousers she wore, her blonde hair was in a braid and Ryanair noted she also wore white blouse. He glanced down at what he wore and shrugged his shoulders, a pair of black trousers and a grey dress shirt. “I can't really help that. He's quiet and I don't know why, it's...frustrating.” He whispered softly and jumped when a hand fell on his cheek, Ryanair blinked and turned his head to face the other blonde.

“Sometimes things can't be helped, come let's go for a walk around the grounds. The woods are part of the land so we should be fine.”The blonde's rose and moved down the stairs until they reach the snow-covered ground. They pause when several barks fill the air, the blonde's glanced up and found six pairs of eyes on them. Ynez shakes out her body and then jerks her chin in the direction of the trees, Ryanair snorted softly as Esther giggled at his side.

It seemed like they'd have company. Both moved forward and felt the wolves move to circle them as they neared the trees.

○~○~○~○~○~○

Kieran hadn't moved from the chair, his eyes remained closed as his mind whirled. His bond with Ryanair pulsed with a wave of acceptance and admiration. His fledgling seemed to be moving away from the mansion though not too far away, the raven-haired male sighed and shifted to the first time. He hadn't slept since he'd returned to their room, the kids had gone with Isabela and he hadn't protested. Ryanair hadn't pry but Kieran could tell that his fledgling could feel his mood, he felt tired and raw on the inside. Ryanair had only pressed a kiss to his lips before exiting their room, he'd relaxed and made his way downstairs.

Now he pulled on the thread he shared with Clara, he had to talk to his first fledgling. Maybe she'd tale him up on his offer, it was the least he deserved. Hopefully he'd be fine enough to feed afterwards, he didn't much like the idea of being in pain but maybe it would help. He rose and moved to the edge of the pool, his gaze focusing on the still water.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Clara was frustrated – more so than she'd liked to admit. After all of these years there came a level of acceptance over the whole ordeal. She wasn't happy about it, but it had happened and with her sire simply gone out of her life, she had to deal with it. Perhaps her way of dealing with it was comprised of obsessing over her revenge if ever given the opportunity, but now things were different. Things had changed in a way Clara could have never predicted, and she was quite unhappy over it. She had no control at this point, and every time she had come to his aid, she felt far more foolish in more ways than one. Why would she continue to help him when he'd given her nothing in return? All she gained was an eyeful of how much he adored his other fledgling.

Clara continued through the mansion, mindless of where she was going. She nursed her cup of coffee against the front of her shoulder, her other arm crossed around her chest. It was silly to have come here in the first place – what could she have gotten out of it? Clearly there were no opportunities to even get back at him – he was surrounded by friends in his own home – she would be at a disadvantage…

Her thoughts were interrupted by that familiar tug and she nearly groaned at the sensation. Inwardly she was cursing, reluctant to even follow it even though she understood her steps would eventually lead her to where he was. Her jaw was clenched as she gripped onto the mug tighter, having stopped in the middle of a long hallway for a while. Should she simply ignore it and head back off to her room? There was nothing more for her to do here, and she was too frustrated with Christian to deal with him… Or should she just figure out what he wanted and be done with it?

Glaring down the hallway, Clara had eventually turned on her heel and headed where that pull would lead her. She slowly had come across the large room with the pool – the smell of chlorine filling her senses. With that familiar glare, her eyes fell on Kieran, but she did not move once she stepped inside the room.

"…What the hell do you want?"

@Arista

[Arista]

The angry hiss from behind him snapped him from the gaze his mind had slipped into. He didn't turn but merely rolled his shoulders and watched as his reflection mirrored the movement. His mind flashed to a memory of a child Kieran watching his grinning reflection in a pond, his mother seated on a bench behind him.

He pushed the past away and opened his mouth to respond. He was tired and wanted to go and sleep, this was a way to see how his fledgling would respond. “Have at it. Hit me until you deem it fit for my negligence of you for the years that have passed. I won't stop you.” His voice was blank though he noted his reflection flashed to the smaller version of himself. Was he going mad? He blinked and the smiling round face was gone, in its place was a tall and pale man with sharp features and long hair.

He meant it to, he wouldn't stop her until she was satisfied. He wasn't a stranger to pain, his father had never been the doting-type unlike his mother. He wondered even now how they married each other, how they could love one another when one was never home and when he was harsh words were said. He sometimes heard the whispered fights, hissing that reminded his young mind as angry cats. Kieran turned and faded his first fledgling, his arms limp at his sides.

He was either losing his mind or he was just tired and needed to sleep.

○~○~○~○~○

Isabela blinked down at the book she held in her hands, Wolff who had joined her huffed softly and wrote something out on the parchment he'd brought with him. She didn't like the way Kieran and Ryanair had come down that morning, her mind flashing back to the image had her lips tugging down into a frown.

The blonde had looked awake but uneasy and worried, Kieran had looked blank and listless. Rising from the cushioned chair the elder vampire moved to the nearest bookshelf, placing the book back she decided to break the silence. “No one was hurt but the town was destroyed, a few homes and shops are left. My Guards told me no one was bitten and that all the fallen wolves were cleared away. No one else has neared the town and I'm not sure what we should do. This is Kieran’s house after all and the wolves can't really go back.” Wolff paused in his writing and straightened in his seat, a pale hand rising to card through short raven-black hair.

“Everything is going to shit, the kids have to be told soon if they haven't begun piecing it together. Their growing and will soon begin to notice what their young minds aren't capable of understanding just yet, that falls on Kieran to explain.” Isabela was glad she's put the kids into a room with coloring books and a roaring fire to kept them warm. They'd been quiet but none the less excited as they'd followed her around, she'd showed them the others room so as to keep them away from the adults. With a sigh Isabela turned to face her long-time friend and rested her head against the shelf, their eyes met and both turned to the door.

Best to keep the human children company and distracted before they found out something.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Of all things that Clara could have expected him to have wanted of her, his request had hardly been on her radar. She'd almost expected him to ask of some other task from her; ask for her assistance on whatever the hell they were going to do now that their town had been pulled apart, but instead the man before her expected her to do – well, what she'd wanted to all along. And yet, now that she stood in front of him, she felt deflated. She had attempted to brush away the surprise on her features as he spoke, and instead chose to take a slow, long sip of her coffee as she pondered her choices and options.

He'd stood there like someone had just killed his kitten and it was unsettling…

"You're shitting me…" Clara murmured as she finished her sip and had moved to place the cup on one of the chairs closest to her. Still, she hadn't quite moved further into the room, unsure if this was a trap or a test. She did not trust him in the least bit, nor could she bring herself to trust him even if she wanted to. His request was odd – something that still did not sit well with her even though she should have taken the opportunity immediately.

She'd wanted to hurt him so badly – make him feel it – because she truly doubted he could ever begin to understand what he'd put her through.

"To fight someone who is unwilling to fight back is not only uninteresting– but it's pathetic." Clara suddenly bit back as she eyed him carefully, still choosing to keep her distance. "And if you think for one instant that that…." She paused and shook her head after a quick moment. "Beating the hell out of you with no defense will not fix a damn thing."

Oh, but she really should have. She was itching to – only, what good would it do her if he just stood there and took it? If he just allowed it? There would be no fulfillment out of it and Clara understood that. Hell, she would have been better off beating the hell out of a punching bag if he'd just decided to stand there and take it. What kind of a man does that? No – He needed to fight back, damnit!

"And don't pretend like you suddenly care, either. I will not fall for such lies."

@Arista

[Arista]

“Certa parvulus.” Was what left his mouth, his arms lifting and removing his outer jacket. Tossing it on the chair with little care, he proceeds to roll the sleeves of his crimson shirt until they reach his elbows. His arms then reach up to his hair, his hands easily tying his hair without a hair-tie. A sigh leaves his lips and for a moment, Kieran debates on if they should go out into the heated patch of grass or not. He decides that yes, that would be a good place.

Turning he moves towards the glass doors, opening the two before him with a tug. Warm air wafts into his face but he pays it no mind, he half-turned to face his first fledgling. She really was a beautiful person and he had left her bitter with his absence, he'd do as she asked and fight back. Stepping out into the grass, Kieran glances up to the cloudy sky and wonders briefly if it would snow once more. He vanishes the thought and turns to his fledgling, his stance shifting to one on the defensive.

His eyes bled silver and his lips pulled into a half-smirk that didn't feel too forced. Hopefully after this he wouldn't feel so hollow and raw inside, and sleep might help as well. His lips parted and he spoke a nickname that seemed to fit his fiery fledgling. “Come my Ardentis.” He stated with a nod of his head, the term of endearment slipping past his lips easily.

○~○~○~○

They came to a halt when the smell of rotting flesh and blood met their collective noses. The wolves took off and Ynez stepped between them her hackles raised. Ryanair stilled and he felt Esther doing the same at his side, both vampires waited and were rewarded with a sharp bark up ahead. Ynez took off and both followed, the wolves couldn't get any closer and the bark had sounded both uneasy and worried. Werewolves were something Ryanair had only read about in books, though now as he followed the Alpha and reached her pack he could remember the paragraphs he'd read with crystal clear clarity.

The body was decayed and seemed to have been for awhile, neither could tell what gender was but the wolves could. Ryanair moved forward and settled a hand on Ynez’s white head, the Alpha snorted and nudged his palm with her nose. “How long?” He asked and Ynez answered by lifting her left forepaw and tapping it against the snows surface. Eight days and with the way the wolves were sniffing the air and keeping a fair distance from the body, Ryanair could guess a wolfsbane spike was near.

A grey-black spotted wolf moved forward and Ryanair watched as Ynez snapped her maw. The wolf stilled and lowered it's head, Ryanair remembered then the difference in size between male and female wolves. Esther tugged on his arm and he glanced at her, she shook her head and gestured for them to move away. Several barks filled the air and the tension snapped as the wolves leapt forward and away from the trees.

They couldn't do anything and the body would decompose further anyway. Offering his arm, Esther laces her arm through his and he takes the hint. The wolves circle them once more though pairs begin play-fighting once more as they continue to walk.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Clara had no idea what to think as he asked her to fight him; she'd no idea what his motives were; what his plans for all of this could be. She was unsure of herself and unsure of the situation, wondering if she should walk away and not play into whatever he had in store. But then again, it gave her the chance to make him suffer - if she possibly could. He was, after all, her sir e- but he knew nothing of the training she'd received from someone who had to be around the same age as Kieran. Still, she watched him carefully as he removed his jacket and headed towards the back door, although she momentarily remained rooted to the spot. Clearly, she was struggling internally; weighing the negatives against the positives should she decide to fight him.

As Kieran stepped outside she'd wavered but ultimately decided to follow him along. No, she did not care that she was in her usual corset dress – her hair was already tucked up messily – she'd fought many wearing much worse.

As he faced her, Clara fought the urge to shake her head. His other fledgling hadn't been around and she wondered if he would come in trying to play hero if he'd seen them. Hell – the entire household could be against her if this was some sort of trick.

Regardless, she was tired of hesitating. She wasn't sure if she would get another moment such as this and her form was stiff only for a moment longer. "What the hell do you gain from this?" Clara still hissed, but it was only a second later that she finally lurched forward to meet him, her fists clenched to swing at his jaw as soon as she could. Should he not fight back, she knew she'd withdraw as well… Even so – she knew it would feel good to at least get some of her pent up rage out – as she showed no mercy as soon as her body met his.

One by one she'd shot out punch after punch, kick after kick - dodging what he would send her way, and quite honestly, it looked like she wouldn't let up. Her eyes were bright in that anger - determined to make him feel every bit of the pain he'd forced her to feel throughout all of the years.

@Arista

[Arista]

“Nothing.” Was what he answered with when he could, her attacks a flurry but still somehow managing to look graceful. He met her attack or attack, his eyes glowering and his face blank as he memorized her fighting style. Her hair had come loose at one point, Clara seemed to pay it no heed as she continued forward. Kieran through punches and kicks and his mind flashed to the first time he'd met Isabela all those years ago.

Somehow Kieran had managed to keep himself alive. Since he'd left his home behind he'd wandered, town and town he passed with time to only admire a few shops and grab a place to sleep. He never really had a place to stay for more than a night, years passed and with it he grew and stayed at towns for more then a day.

He came across a bar on a moonless night and decided that staying there would be better then outside. Entering he was immediately hit with the smell of alcohol and the shouts of the inhabitants, he moved forward and took a seat at the bar. The bartender glanced up and Kieran noted he was young-looking with a scar running from his left cheek down to his collarbone, the vampire offered a small wave in greeting.

“What can I get ya?” Was asked as the male moved away farm the other side and towards him, Kieran blinked and tilted his head. Alcohol didn't affect hum but he knew that asking for a glass of water would make the others on either side of his scoff. He took a moment to think and after a glance at the bottles behind the male, Kieran pointed to a blue bottle and answered.

“That one.” He stated and then place his palm in the counter, he pulled it back when he felt stickiness cling to his skin. The bartender laughed softly and wiped the counter before turning to face the bottles, Kieran focused on the others around him as shouts filled the air. It was a large bar and the vampire watched as a group around a pool table shouted once more, a tap on his shoulder drew his atren towards the front. A cup with crimsin liquid met his gaze and the bartender smiled and shrugged before turning away.

He was jerked awake by a cool hand patting his cheek. His eyes blinked and Kieran sat up straight when his gaze focused on who had woken him. Her eyes were narrowed and her painted lips were pulled down into a frown. The pub was quieter now and the vampire blinked in confusion, the woman huffed and withdrew her hand.

“Awful place to sleep if I say so. Come now love it's time to go home.” She stated with a arch of a crimsin brow, Kieran was thrown and she reached for his hand and tugged him off his stool. He allowed it and soon found himself in a room that screamed money, he glanced at the woman and she seemed to understand. “My name is Isabela Moines, a pleasure. You'll sleep here and we'll talk in the morning.”With that she'd pressed a kiss to his cheek and had left him alone.

True to her word they talked the next morning. And from their a kinship was born and Kieran learned his to open up once more. He learned how to fight and trust the friends he'd made after meeting Isabela.

Ducking a punch, Kieran met Clara head on. His movements shifting and smoothing out as he recalled what Isabela had taught him. He hadn't had time to teach Ryanair but after this, he'd do just that.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

His words only aggravated her further, coupled with the fact that Kieran had remained emotionless throughout the entire exchange. It didn’t help that he’d met each one of her blows with one of his own, and he had yet to waver under her assault. Clara wasn’t entirely sure how she thought this would play out, but then again, nothing as of yet had met all of her plans; all of her worrying and thinking about what she would do if she would ever come face to face with her sire again.Nothing had met her expectations. Her fangs were bared as she lurched forward, her punches unending, her kicks and swipes never faltering and she’d never shown an ounce of fatigue even though she knew full well she’d not been sleeping well as of late and this would do her no good.

“Fuck off...” Clara hissed suddenly. “You just want me to beat the shit out of you?” She growled amidst her attack, her eyes never leaving his form. None of this was ever supposed to happen -- he was the cause of everything. The cause of her pain; the sole reason that throughout all of the early years she just wanted to die and be done with it all. She had to go through all of it without a sire - and although Christian had done the best he could, it still couldn’t fill the void that she felt every single day. Nothing would fill it - no liquor, no men, hell, no fighting or even running away had filled that void. It was an ache that continued to grow and thrive even though she’d never meant to feed it.

With her thoughts she’d only gotten more angry and almost more desperate to hurt him. She’d tried to keep herself in check, but her emotions were going to get the best of her and she knew it. With a growl, she’d lunged and dropped in an attempt to swipe his feet from beneath him. She needed an advantage - and she’d intended on pinning him suddenly, her curls fanning around them both as she caught her breath.

“You have no fucking clue what you’ve put me through. Not one. damn. clue.” She continued, her hand reaching out to grip his throat. “And you can give two shits about it - I know it. Don't suddenly pretend like you care about me - don't even fucking feel obligated to.”

@Arista

[Arista]

“I can guess but never understand because I was born a vampire. What I wanted out of this my Ardentis was to see how well you'd do, I wanted to see how you've grown in my absence. I may never be able to fix this but I can hope that we do.” He states as he ducks away slams his palm into the space between her collarbones, he can feel her fatigue just as he can feel his own. Kieran releases a breath and swept his leg out, vampires didn't get exhausted as human do but sleep helps heal wounds and restore energy. He knew his fledgling knew that, his eyes focused on the mark he knew he'd left on her neck for a moment before he stepped back and away from a kick.

He couldn't use that against her, not when he knew he was the reason for her pain. Ryanair hadn't fought him when he'd awoken and realized he wasn't human anymore. They've been together and Kieran could count the times his second fledgling has fought against him. The blonde has mellowed but at times Kieran can feel the fear and anger that fills him at the sight of a large group. Ryanair hadn't told him but he'd caught glimpses of information when he'd been changing and had endured a fever.

He'd been drugged and taken out of his home. Apparently his father had been doing things behind others people's back and they thought going after the son would make a difference. It didn't. Kieran aimed a punch and focused on the bond he shared with the other and found it still and filled with ease. His mother used to say he'd baby those he took care of, and she had been right. He'd helped Ryanair and now he wanted to help Clara but knew she'd fight him on it, he'd made her this anger-filled revenge seeking vampire.

He could feel it now, the need to settle down his fledgling before she lost control. He just didn't know if he could--he didn't feel he had the right to even if instinct was demanding he do it. Christian could take her away and this seedling would die and he'd feel incomplete, he hated being alone. His face relaxed and he lunged forward, his movements calculated and well-honed as he gripped Clara’s arm and spun them around. His stance stilled and he applied a bit of pressure to the arm he now held, he needed to calm her down and hope she'd listen.

The likelihood of that happening was against him. He knew this but he'd damn well try. He wanted both of his fledgling’s at his side, he didn't want to feel as if a part of him was missing. He'd heard the stories of sires going mad from the void that not having a marked fledgling at their side. He didn't want that.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

“Fuck!” Clara bit out as his hand collided with her collarbone. She’d still straightened up and was able to jump over his swiped leg before returning another punch of her own. She couldn’t give up and she wouldn’t give up. She’d continue to fight him until the day she died, she knew it. He’d done no good by her all of these years - every time she thought about that night, she’d obsessed over every detail. She’d wondered if she’d done anything wrong; if she’d been the cause of his sudden departure. At one moment it was so perfect - she hadn’t expected what would have happened only moments later and she was such a fool for falling for all of it. He’d lured her in, had his way, and tossed her aside. And there they were -- how many centuries later and it just so happened that he showed up again with little to no remorse? No, he wouldn’t feel any remorse, would he? He’d so easily forgotten and moved on to another - her replacement - and they strutted so openly in front of her.

At the thought, Clara had growled as she headed towards him again, determined to make him suffer and make him simply feel. His words were only reassurance. Kieran would never understand, just as Christian could never understand what she felt. But god damnit, Kieran was supposed to understand - he was supposed to make it go away! That’s how all of this worked, she was sure of it!

She became blind to everything around her - her attention focused only on her prey before her, filled with the growing determination to cause him more pain. If anyone had noticed their fight, she could care less. If Ryanair tried to intervene, she would take it out on him too. Christian had probably known better - even if he decided to come looking, he couldn’t intervene. She’d given him plenty of what-for’s in the past over interrupting anything she’d gotten involved in.

Her attention remained focused on Kieran as she came after him once more, however, she was caught off guard at he’d suddenly grabbed her. She’d felt his chest against her back and right away she’d tried to pull away from his despite his hold on her arm. “Let me go you son of a bitch!” Clara growled, still trying to loosen his grip on her. Her fangs remained bared as she fought against him, not caring if anyone had heard them at that point. Bastard - he couldn’t win this one...

@Arista

[Arista]

“I was a child, one how'd never turned anyone before and I wasn't--dammit stop moving! I didn't mean to leave you but I was being chased and I panicked--shit! I know I can't fix this but…” His words failed him as he shifted his grip and refused to let her go. He knew he was playing at something that could destroy everything, that the line he treaded on was thin. He just wanted to get her to calm and listen. He'd admitted he'd been afraid and until that moment he'd forgotten what it felt like to be truly afraid. He'd locked a certain part away after that incident, Isabela easily soothing his fears and keeping an eye out for his attackers.

He'd secluded himself from that night and now he was paying for it. The girl in his arms was bitter and wanted nothing more than to lash out at him, he knew he couldn't and that would end badly. A fledgling and their sire needed one another in more ones than one, he was learning that know. He grit his teeth and with instinct guiding him, he leaned down and allowed his mouth to hover over the mark he knew she bore.

Insanity was a scary thing. He'd been an almost empty being until the night he found Ryanair, he'd looked like a broken child then. Clara had been no different when he'd found her, they'd both fallen into their feelings. He could remember warm fingers and kisses that seemed to silently convey answers, he'd allowed himself to give in and let go. Now he had two different fledgling’s and his mind was whirling in endless circles. “I fucked up and I know that you want nothing to do with me, but I can't...no matter how long I live I know I won't be able to earn your trust. I just...”His words failed but his stance doesn't, his lips brushing against warm skin. His mind wandered to an article he'd read awhile back, of a sickness that was claiming the minds of several different supernatural species.

A soft hiss escaped his lips as he pulled gently on the bond between them. He wouldn't let her go until she settled, his eyes lingering on a familiar necklace cord he could just see. He suddenly felt so damn tired.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Shit - she didn’t want to hear the words coming out of his mouth. A sense of dread hit her as she still squirmed in his grasp and she continued to fight to get free. No reason nor excuse could ever be what she wanted to hear and she was terribly frightened of the truth. To speculate why he could have left was one thing, but to hear it directly from the source was an entirely different thing. Even though Clara truly did want to know, she was terrified of the cold truth - so she resisted. She became almost desperate in that resistance, growing almost more upset and emotional than angry and it continued to build the more he held onto her and wouldn’t let her go.

“I don’t want to hear it!” Clara continued to struggle, trying to cut him short before he could get anything out further. “I was a goddamn mistake and I know it. Why the hell would you show back up?” She continued, but her eyes were shut tight. He wouldn’t let her go no matter how much she refused to settle and she couldn’t deal with that. By now Christian would have even let her go; he would have known to just leave her alone and let her run like she’d so terribly wanted to. She wanted to shut herself away from it; from him.

She’d felt his breath against her skin and it almost made her want to yank away - put as much distance between them as she could, but his grip was firm. Clara swallowed the small lump in her throat at the sudden feeling shooting through her and she still refused to open her eyes. However, her body slowly stilled- wanting to ignore all of those memories; all of those feelings. She’d played that night over and over again - he’d been a solution that she’d looked for. He’d been her way out and he’d met her with just as much desperation as she’d met him. Something about it just felt -- right; Any of her fears of running away had all been settled under his touch. All of her concerns and worries had been silenced by his lips...

And then he was gone, and she was left with the most awful ache and void that she could never stitch no matter how large the needle.

Clara had almost stilled entirely, her hands dropping weakly to her sides as she frowned, unable to hide from the feeling that surged through her at the mere touch of his lips against her skin and she nearly whimpered in defeat. “You did more than just fuck up.” She spoke quietly then, un-moving and unable to swallow the lump that remained in her throat. “You broke me.”

There came a long pause as she still didn’t move. “Just let me go...” She felt deflated; defeated -- and she needed to run. She needed to be alone and she needed to be away from it all. All of the years of trying to push it down; trying to rid herself of the ache and need -- suddenly it had risen from the dead all from the mere touch of his lips against her neck. She didn’t want to give him that control...

@Arista

[Arista]

He let her go.

He moved back and felt the world spin dizzyingly as he turned to head back into his home. His head felt heavy and his limbs felt like lead, he released a breath and straightened his back. He'd heard her words but had no answer, his eyes blinked owlishly as he tried to gather his thoughts. “It wasn't my intention.” Was all he could out before the sound of the door opening filled his ears. Esther stood in the doorway and Kieran blinked in surprise, the blonde merely shrugged and pointed a thumb down the hall.

“Dinner is ready and we just got back.” Was her response, Kieran moved forward to gather his jacket. He paused and flexed his fingers before offering the vampire his arm, she took it but not before running a finger down his cheek. He shrugged and led her down the hall, the sound of laughter filling the air has him relaxing slightly.

“Shower “ Is the only word he manages as they near the kitchen, Esther pats his arm and enters with a wave. Kieran moves to the stairs and then his room, pausing when he finds Ryanair curled up and fast asleep on the bed. He closes the door softly and moves to the blonde's side, leaning forward he takes a small whiff of his hair. He smells of pine trees and strawberries, Kieran blinked and wonders where his fledgling has been. He blinks and remembers that Esther had a new set of clothes on and seemed content, the wolves to he noted.

A soft sound has him smoothing a hand through dry locks. Ryanair settles but a sleepy eye opens to regard him, Kieran offers a smile before pressing his lips to the blonde's temple. He moves away and heads for the bathroom, turning on the water he allows it to trickle down his upturned face. Twenty minutes later find him in his room and towel-drying his hair, he's startled slightly when arms wrap around his shoulders and squeeze.

“Can I braid it?” Ryanair asks with slurred words, Kieran nods and pushes the other back to remove the towel from his hair. Ryanair’s fingers soon settle into his hair, gently coaxing his curly hair into a neat braid. They at dinner with the rest, Kieran feeling oddly lighter than the night before. He noted his tired but content the wolves seemed and asked about it, Esther gave him a smirk and Ryanair a shrug.

His mind had gone blank, silence filled it as laughs and conversations filled the air. He participated and smiled, his eyes clear and almost glowing. He didn't feel better exactly--it was more like he was numb but still feeling emotions.

How odd.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

When Kieran had let her go she’d felt weak - almost like she needed that support that was suddenly stolen from her. Even so, her feet remained planted and Clara did not turn to him. It felt as if the very weight of that night fell right back onto her shoulders; her wounds felt as if they suddenly started bleeding once more and she felt as vulnerable as she had that night so long ago. It was harrowing - hearing him speak of it; hearing him apologize for something that he’d never meant to do. It all had been a mistake, in a sense, and Clara still was not sure if she would ever get past the bitter taste suddenly in her mouth.

His words echoed in her ear as she stood there, hardly moving. Her eyes only focused on the grass beneath her, and she’d almost been able to muster the energy to bite back at him. Her words only died into a quick breath as she’d heard the door open and seen Esther standing there. Part of her wondered just how long she’d been there - what could she have heard and what could she have seen. Either way, she swallowed again and straightened up, her arms crossed once more against her chest. No; nothing had just happened.

Kieran was quick to collect his jacket and she did not watch him at first until he’d approached the door and offered his arm to Esther. She’d seen her little show of affection, and part of her felt that quick stab of something that she’d hardly wanted to feel. Fuck. She needed to go somewhere else and she needed to go fast.

Everyone had settled in for dinner but as she came in, she’d noticed Kieran wasn’t quite there yet. So, she quickly slunk around the rest of them and into the kitchen in search for another bottle of wine. She’d grabbed the first bottle of white she’d seen along with a glass before she quickly headed away from everyone, making a beeline to the steps and up towards her room. The door slammed quickly behind her and she leaned against it for a long moment before she allowed her body to slide down slowly. Her legs were pulled to her chest and she’d only stared at the ceiling above her, the bottle next to her on the floor and the empty glass on her other side.

She felt drained and yet something within her buzzed and raced - something almost awoken but unwilling to be awoken all in the same. Clara hadn’t liked the feelings surging through her; the thoughts and memories that once were hidden and now overwhelmed her mind. Fuck him -- She hated how he could so easily do that. She hated how he made her lose control...

--

Christian had seen Clara come in just as quickly as she’d left. He’d already had his plate ready and was sitting and conversing with the others before she’d left. He’d half expected her to come in and sit down with him, but her movements had him concerned. Not to mention, he’d seen the bottle she’d taken out and his brow furrowed in response. Wherever she’d been - whatever she’d been doing had upset her yet again. Honesty, it might have been a good idea to start thinking about taking her elsewhere.

His thoughts had him glancing over to Kieran who seemed more content than he’d had the day before. The man was conversing and having quite the time, it seemed, which had only caused Christian to study him for a moment longer. Whatever he’d done or he had planned, if this was the consistent result of it, they’d leave soon enough.

@Arista

[Arista]

Dinner had finished and with it everyone rose and moved to the living room, the mood shifted as Wolff rose and stood before them. His gaze was narrowed and serious, everyone was alert and curious as he pulled out a roll of parchment. The children were asleep and had been settled after a bath and story, Kieran wondered what Wolff needed to say.

He was as blunt as ever.

“The wolf attack was based on the sickness that doesn't have a name yet. We know this because a Healer within the Guard did an autopsy on an Alpha and found he had it. The rest of the wolves had the beginning stages, this isn't good and is cause for worry. I'm sure you all heard the rumors by now, of how this sickness came into creation?” Everyone nodded except for Kieran, his eyes remained locked with Wolff’s.

“Wasn't it created when a witch cast a decaying spell and instead of hitting it's target it just dispersed into the air?” Wolff glanced at the wolf that had spoken and offered him a nod, his gaze focused on the sheet in his hands.

“That's the story but I think it's something else, what I have no idea. This is why I've gathered you here, the Healer and I have spoken and she's suggested I check all of your brainwaves. Now up we go.” It wasn't a suggestion and with it, Verne turned and moved to head upstairs. Kieran and Ryanair along with everyone else followed and turned to the left. The medical room was the only room with a white door, Verne pushed it open and gestured everyone to go inside. The next hour each person was checked and then given a pill that they were to swallow, Wolff would have liked to check the girl that always seemed angry but he refrained from asking.

Everyone was released from the room and they said goodnifht before heading to their rooms. Ryanair followed his sire into his room, his own room he'd given to the kids so they'd be guarded all aroun. Kieran didn't say anything and both shed go their boxers and slipped into bed.

○~○~○~○~○

Vermillion-colored eyes scanned the map with avid interest. A shriek had the focused gaze swiveling up to the interpreter, a slow smile spreading across pale features.

Was it time already? With a snap of his fingers, the male summoned his army and rose from the cuahioned chair he'd been sitting in. As he raised his arms, he noticed the others around him mirroring his movement, the familiar coil of shadows coming to life. The shadows solidified and soon breasts of varying sizes stood before him, their crimson eyes glowing. “Go and cause mayhem by spreading our madness “ He cooed at them and soon he was alone with his summoned flowers, he moved forward and with a wave of his hand thr doors of his mansion opened and the frigid air from outside filled the large room.

Cackles filled the silence and soon the male turned to the one who had cawed, a large black phoenix sat cleaning it's feathers. He whistled and soon it's weight was settled onto his right shoulder, it's beak was parted in an almost grin. He stepped out into the snow-covered ground and released the shadows that were at his command, the phoenix spread it's wings and took off into the night.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Christian had leaned back in his chair after they’d headed towards another room, belly full and content, knowing Clara was left to her own devices. She wouldn’t come from her room that night -- he’d been familiar with these moods and knew what she’d probably end up doing. Still, he’d wondered the actual cause of it - both her and Kieran had been gone a while earlier...

His thoughts were pushed aside as Wolff had stood and Christian raised his brow after a moment. “So it is actually a legitimate illness?” He asked suddenly, all of the sudden his worry piqued by his interest had been caught. He’d heard the rumors - heard of the sickness that was slowly making others go insane. It made sense - what other reason could have sparked those wolves to try and tear apart that town? It had seemed like an unplanned attack - almost as if they’d just been passing through and decided that town had been in their way.

Still, if this had been true it posed a problem for every one of them in that room. Was it contagious -- and were any of them able to catch it? Clearly Wolff had a plan and Christian was not about to protest - however, Clara needed to be involved as well.

Christian followed the others, taking note that Clara’s door had been shut as he passed by in the hallway. One by one, each of them had been checked and given a pill to swallow before they each separated for bed. Christian had lingered behind, waiting for everyone to scatter before he moved to linger outside of Clara’s door once more. He was unsure of if he would bother - and he wondered if he should inform her in the morning. Still, he grabbed the handle and quietly pushed the door open before he had stepped inside.

She’d been curled up underneath her blankets and her back was facing towards him. The empty bottle of wine had been left on a night stand with the empty glass placed next to that. He’d sighed as he carefully approached her and sat down next to her, his hand coming to rest upon her shoulder.

Clara had awoken with a start and she nearly jumped up before she’d focused on Christian. A quick huff fell from her lips before she pressed a hand to her head with a groan. “... What do you want?” Clara mumbled and Christian shook his head.

“I’m just checking in on you, darling.” He commented. “And, in the morning I need you to pay that Wolff guy a visit.” Clara furrowed her brow as she peered up at him and she shifted to lie on her back. “Why? What’s going on?”

“Remember we’d heard of those rumors a few months back? That others were getting sick and it was causing them to go mad?” Clara had only nodded, half listening. She was exhausted - she just wanted to actually get some sleep through the night. Her body ached and she didn’t want to feel it anymore.

“Well, apparently it was the cause for the attack on the town the other night. Wolff has more information, but I need you to get checked by him in the morning. Only a precaution -- we all went through it.”

Clara gave a huff and waved her hand at him to dismiss him. “Whatever. Fine, then.” She’d responded with a little huff once more.

“Are you alright--”

“Stop. I’m fine. Don’t ask.” She cut him short as she shifted again. Christian only sighed and reached over to run a hand gently through her hair. “I only worry, Clara...”

Clara frowned and pulled her blankets up a little further, rolling on her side to face him. “I know, Christian... Don’t worry about me... I’m fine, really.” She murmured. “I just want to sleep.”

Christian watched her for a moment longer, his fingers still running through her waves. “Alright, love... Just please go see him in the morning.” He reminded her before he’d leaned down to press a kiss to her forehead. She’d closed her eyes and curled up tighter without a response and Christian had turned from her before closing the door behind him.

With his own sigh he had headed to his room only to get undressed and climb back into bed. As long as she’d listened to him come morning, he wouldn’t pester her.

@Arista

[Arista]

Morning came and with it Kieran and everyone else awoke and sleepily moved about in order to wake up. Isabela and Wolff were downstairs and splitting breakfast duty, the silence between them was calm but heavy. Settling the plates down and then the utensils, Wolff glanced at his friend and stilled when a pop from for pan filled the air. Isabela moved to finish the eggs she easy making, her hair in waves down her back. She'd awoken to a note on her nightstand, it was simple and to the the point which meant it had come from her Guard.

Another attack occurred in a smaller town in the north. Casualties are high and as of now we're looking for survivors. No signature followed but she hadn't really been looking for one, her stomach felt heavy and with it her resolve had strengthened. Finishing and setting the pan in the sink to cool, she turned and faced her friend. The others had rolled in by then, everyone seemed quiet and in edge. It was time to come clean then, she stalled Wolff with a raised hand.

“There was another attack. This time on a smaller town in the north, so far casualties are high and my Guard are looking for survivors. This isn't good, it almost seems to be spreading.” She allowed Wolff to speak this, his lips thin and his eyes narrowed.

“It's almost as if a specific type of magic is being used. What can spread without being seen?” His question was directed towards everyone, the cup in his hands coming to rest on the table. Isabela watches as thoughtful expressions filter across everyone's faces, she had a guess but it wasn't as likely tor be true.

“Shadows.” The answer came from Ynez, her eyes wide and her fork slipping from her fingers. She didn't seem to care as she slammed her free hand on the table, her expression flickering between too many emotions to read. “That makes so much fucking sense now! It's a Shadow mage that's doing this-” She was cut off by Kieran’s raised hand. He'd remained silent though now his brows were furrowed, Isabela knew that expression and moved to exit the room. She returns almost immediately with a large tome in her hands she places before Kieran.

“Shadow mages or hell any mage really are rare and tend to keep to themselves. Why would one suddenly want to attack by spreading shadows?” His question had silence filling the kitchen, the food forgotten in light of answers.

“Because only a few type of Mage are able to stay sane with their power. Shadow Mages are rare because they tend to give their soul to the shadows they serve when they die. That way the Mage can control the Shadows with little more then a thought?” Wolff counters through gritted teeth, Kieran nods and taps the cover of the book Isabela had brought him.

“Doesn't that create a Familiar that follows the person wherever they go? If we look at a map and see where the attacks started we can determine where they intend to go.” Kieran stated and rose from his chair, Ryanair followed and Esther did as well. Wolff rose and paused when he glanced around the room, his hands in his pockets.

“I'd like to check everyone before we do that. Christian was it? Will Clara be joining us as well?” He asked as he moved towards the stairs, his posture relaxed but his eyes dark with unease. Everyone else followed suit, the wolves shifting as they climbed the steps. It was easier to scan both wavelengths that way Wolff had said and Ynez had agreed. Their discarded clothes was picked up by Isabela as she brought up the rear, Esther separating from the group to grab a map before joining then once more.

@earlymorninstar

[earlymorninstar]

Clara had awoken the next morning, hardly in the mood to get up let alone to interact with the others. Still, she’d told Christian she would partake in whatever little health check they were going through, so she had no choice. Not to mention, she figured others would start questioning why she was always keeping herself separated from the group. None of them needed to know who she was in relation to Kieran - that was for certain. She did not need anyone asking questions or prying into their history because, quite frankly, she didn’t want to talk about it. It would only ignite her anger once more even though -- that morning she simply felt like a deflated tire. Anger wasn’t the very first emotion that came to mind when she thought about him -- but that acknowledgment alone had pissed her off.

She stretched in bed and gave a long sigh before eventually getting herself up. Her steps had taken her to the shower where she remained for quite a long amount of time, reluctant to step out from under the hot water. Still, she’d left and dried off - throwing on another one of her dresses in the meantime with another long stretch of her arms. She’d brushed through her hair and tossed it up again with a couple of pins before she’d decided to leave the room.

Clara had only heard a few words as she headed down the hall, hearing everyone mingling and seemingly getting ready to go out. Marvelous. Not only would she have to socialize, it seemed like it would be another outing that she had to endure.

Christian had looked over to Wolff as he stood to follow everyone out, his brows furrowed in concern over the discovery of that morning. “Clara? Yes - I’m sure she’ll --”

“I’m here, I’m here.” Clara waved him off again with a sigh before she looked to Wolff. “Now, what do you need me to do?”

Christian had watched when the girl separated from him and headed off with the other male, pleased that she’d actually listened to him that morning. Still, no matter how pleased he was with her, he couldn’t get passed the troubling thoughts that now presented themselves. It wasn’t just an illness or a misdirected spell - this seemed much worse than that. And if their assumptions were true, it was going to be more difficult to deal with than he’d first imagined. He’d wondered if others out there had realized what they had, or if they decided to up and run from it -- which would have been a decent option. Yet, all of these people around him opted for defending their homes, and for that he couldn’t fault them.

The more they found out about this mage - the better - yet all of his instincts were wanting to simply take Clara and leave. His priority had always been to keep her out of danger, and just by being there he felt as if he was throwing them both into the fire -- no matter how many people they had on their sides.

@Arista

[Arista]

Check-ups done and pills distributed, Wolff allowed everyone to disperse around the house. Kieran, Esther as well as Ryanair and Isabella had moved towards the library. A map had been spread out and they'd marked their town as well as the new location, ideas were flowing freely between them.

“Are there other Mages? I mean besides this one that'd causing madness?” Esther asked after they'd stated at the map, Ryanair was reading the large tome Isabela had brought to Kieran. Isabela was reading another book and seemed absorbed in it, Kieran answered after a pause. His fingers tapped along the arm of the couch he'd sat himself in, he sighed and answered.

“Maybe but the likelihood of more then one being in the same radius as another is slim. Like werewolves and demons, they prefer to stay secluded so no trouble is born. Though in this case that's the bad part.” The sound of bare feet padding across wooden floor had three sets of eyes glancing up, Ynez waved at them before plopping down beside Ryanair.

“Mage-magic doesn't have a scent but it leaves a trace in the air. We've felt it, whatever attacked last night were in a group and didn't seem to care if anything was left as evidence. Sloppy if I may say but why I'd like to know is why now?” A cough drew everyone's attention to Isabela, the elder vampire had a blank expression on her pale face.

“Insanity breeds madness. My guess if the Mage finally lost what little control he had and is now releasing his powers for the hell of it. We're safe here but going out to search isn't a bad idea, though I hate to suggest it.” Kieran nodded soberly and shifted his gaze to the map once more, a huff from Ynez has him and Ryanair glancing at her.

“My pack are willing to go. Five wolves should cover a good distance, May I have assistance from your Guard, Madam?” Isabela blinked but nodded, Kieran watched as Ynez rose to her feet and moved out of the room. Esther had moved to the far corner where a phone was tucked away, her back to them as she dialed a familiar number.

○~○~○~○~○

The ring of a phone had an annoyed growl escaping petal-pink lips. Hazy cobalt-blue eyes opened and narrowed into a glare at the ceiling, a pale hand reached out and snatched the phone from its cradle.

“What. The. Fuck.” Was snarled out when the ringing ended, a soft exhale filled the other end of the line. Silence followed and with it cobalt-blue eyes began to close once more, the sun was up but sleep was important.

“Lye, we need your help. A Shadow mage is causing trouble.” The words were said softly and Lye’s half-awake mind didn't interpret them, the words Shadow mage had her bolting upright. Sure she was an Ice mage and she knew about the other Mages though Shadow Mages were rare. She blinked and rose from her sheets, her familiar yowling in displeasure at her sudden flurry of movements.

“Tell me where and I'll be there. Come on Vox we have to move, a Shadow mage is reeking hell.” Her Familiar bolted up and with a hiss, he bolted from the room. Lye listened as Esther told her the directions and soon they were both out of the door and on the move.

Shadow Mages weren't to be taken lightly.

@earlymorninstar