[sub]in collaboration with [@Fetzen] and [@SunsetRoses][/sub] [h1][center][i][u]"No Peace"[/u][/i][/center][/h1] Khan's poofing had not taken Andri exactly to the place he had had in mind. Instead of right in knocking range of Medusa's office's door, he had ended up in a rather large hallway. [color=fff79a][i]You need training with this! If I make the decision about the destination it's one thing because I'm damn used to it. You have to feed me more precise information or you'll end up in a pile of animal poo![/i][/color] There was no time for discussing with his demon. Andri, very untypical for him, was hitting the stone slabs of the stairs really hard while he was running as fast as he was able to. Instead of stopping first he transferred the remainder of his momentum right onto the door for a very loud first knock with the side of his fist. [color=00a99d][i]Open up... open up...[/i][/color] Medusa was looking over maps, they detailed all of the hideous traps and hazards she and Lorelai had managed to lay out over the years of the covens growth. When the knock came at her door, and Andri's voice accompanied it, she threw a cloth over the plans. [color=ed1c24]"Come in Andri."[/color] She did her best to keep her voice calm. With hunters bearing down on them within the next several days Andri could be a great boon, or a disaster. The door was pushed open rapidly. Andri ducked his head and closed it immediately after he was through, leaning against it with his back from the inside. Interrupted by heavy breathing, he went ahead: [color=00a99d]"Medusa ? There's a huge problem."[/color] He didn't say any more as he intended to wait for Medusa's reaction. Perhaps it would give him any clue about what the true level of information in the coven was. If they already knew about Mat's escape and its implications, he could go straight ahead with not having to worry about anything. [color=ed1c24]"I'm well aware of that Andri."[/color] Medusa sighed, gesturing to one of her chairs. [color=ed1c24]"Matrim's escape could very well lead to quite the war couldn't it? Your arrival and demeanor confirms some of my fears."[/color] She eyed the giant suspiciously. [color=ed1c24]"So tell me, Andri, are you here to help or hinder?"[/color] They already knew it! Perhaps it was a bit absurd, but for Andri it was a relief. There was no chance for him to become even more of a traitor than he already was by telling real secrets. Or no... from a point of view not that few other hunters had every step one made closer to the Castle without the intent of killing witches was treachery. So he was in very deep trouble, but that was trouble he had done to himself in order to preserve his good conscience. Andri let himself drop onto the chair before continuing. [color=00a99d]"It's even not so much about Mat. It's about what he has told about this place. It's about Elizabeth and Coraline."[/color] [color=ed1c24]"Lorelai's pets?"[/color] Medusa fowned, confused. [color=ed1c24]"What do they have to do with this?"[/color] The assassin's facial expression went from exhausted to sceptical in an instant. [color=00a99d]"Lorelai's [i]pets[/i] ? What does that mean ? Aren't they still alright ? The main reason for this hunt seems to be because they're considered missing and possibly dead!"[/color] [color=ed1c24]"I don't know what Lorelai does with her pets... it's hardly my buisness."[/color] Medusa's face joined Andri's in a skeptical expression. [color=ed1c24]"But if what you're saying is true, I recommend you bring this up with her. Her quarters are in the north-western tower. Do be sure to knock first, she won't take kindly to teleportation."[/color] [color=00a99d]"Please tell me at least Liz is still alright!"[/color] Andri replied while already getting back on his feet and returning to the door. He forgot saying Goodbye when he hurried out of her office, leaving another trail of loud noise behind him. Khan could not get him there yet, so he had to run again. When he was in front of her door, Andri knocked loudly. Hopefully Lorelai didn't sleep... Lorelai stirred, her eyes fluttering open. One look to the other side of the bed confirmed that Liz had departed for Seren's Folley. She sighed and collected her discarded clothing, getting dressed for what was likely to be a long night. [color=00aeef]"What is it?[/color] Andri opened and closed the room divider in record time. [color=00a99d]"Sorry Lorelai, I don't have much time for small talk. I've not made myself someone who could be considered a traitor by his colleagues for just sitting around and watching how the one side I helped saving from civil war now consumes the other and is consumed herself in the process. I have to talk to Elizabeth, get her to Seren's Folley if possible. My own diplomatic capabilites aren't sufficient for what's going on. I need something more powerful."[/color] [color=00aeef]"Andri, you're going to have to slow down."[/color] Lorelai's voice was calm, belying her turbulent thoughts. Liz was [i]not[/i] going to be a peace offering, she'd sooner raze the whole of Seren's Folley. [color=00aeef]"Now, explain yourself a little more in depth if you would."[/color] She finished dressing, and opened the door. Andri sighed, both because he felt as if time too precious was lost and because he had to breathe. [color=00a99d]"I want to stop this hunt from happening. I've already tried convincing them with other arguments, but it doesn't work. It's not so much because Mat, it's about what Mat has said. They want Elizabeth and Coraline back."[/color] He paused for another breath. [color=00a99d]"I've come here to see after Liz, at least her. If she's alright and would come back voluntarily to Seren's Folley perhaps that would calm them down."[/color] Lorelai blinked several times. [color=00aeef]"They want them... back?"[/color] Her face flushed red, and smoke began to billow from her mouth and nostrils. [color=00aeef]"Liz is on her way there now, to talk some sense into them. They can't have her back though, she's my knight now, and she'll come back to me."[/color] Fire danced in her mouth as she spoke. The assassin had a large enough lack of knowledge to not be aware of the true reasons behind the smoke billowing out of Lorelai's body openings. He had heard that witch magic often caused some sort of haze, so in his own haste he didn't investigate into this for the moment. However he couldn't resist the feeling that Lorelai had become somewhat angry and it made him take a large step back. He didn't think of this being his fault, so in an attempt to return at least a bit of an objection he answered: [color=00a99d]"I'll speak to her myself and return immediately. Perhaps we can work out something together to stop them from starting this mutual killing spree."[/color] Andri had totally forgotten about telling Lorelai that he had picked up something she had disposed of. Perhaps she would notice when he suddenly disappeared. A whiff of brimstone came to Lorelai's nose as Andri teleported, a familiar whiff. [color=00aeef]"Khan hmm? Free again are you? We'll see if you'll survive displeasing me a second time."[/color] She let out a small jet of flame, calming herself. [color=00aeef]"I wonder if you told Andri what you did? Fail me again and I doubt he'll want to be your host when I tell him."[/color] She whispered to herself. [hr][sub]Meanwhile, in Seren's Folley[/sub] Elizabeth had been riding her horse ragged, froth coming from it's mouth as they traveled through the forest. Usually it would be a strain on her, to wear armor and ride like this, but her new suit hardly chafed and it was light as a feather. Before she could think too much, she broke the treeline. Seren's Folly was normal as could be, and she slowed her horse down to a slow trot as they made their way through town. Bystanders watched her, not suspicious in the least. Most of them didn't know where she had been, or they didn't know who she was at all. Liz kept her eyes forwards as she made her way to the Witch's Paradise. She stopped, hitching her weary horse and dismounting. A steady flow of hunters made their way out the door, and she hid her face in her saddle bags until they had all passed. She entered the bar, suddenly aware of the whip on her hip, and the spear strapped to her back. Liz said nothing, pretending not to notice those who gawked at her. She walked up to the bar, and when the bartender came, she asked for a bottle of whiskey, a mug, and Bobby. The young man stared at her with wide eyes, before nodding cautiously and going off to get Bobby. Liz waited patiently, twiddling her thumbs and ignoring others as they called her name or got up to go over and see her face more clearly. Flint had actually caught sight of her before the bartender had come over to Bobby and them. "LIZ!" Flint yelled as he shoved passed people and knocked over a table to get at her. Not caring that the hunters at the table were cursing at him. He grabbed Liz's shoulders and whiped her around, looking at her head to toe before embracing her in a hug after realizing it really was her, that his mind wasn't playing tricks on him. After a second he pulled away as his brain actually started working again, "Wait...what are you doing here?!Are you hurt? How did you escape? Where is Lorelai?!" Bobby, despite his shuffling was already over to Liz and said. "Elizebeth! Are ye alright?" Fenros, had noticed as well, and came over, but he said nothing as he was overly cautious. It seemed way too odd that Liz would suddenly appear ON the night they were about to attack the castle. His eyes narrowed as he scanned the room. Many of the hunters had left already to make preparations... But his mind had turned to Andri...the only one... who had darkness in him as well. And the ability to Teleport. Elizabeth gave Flint a reluctant pat on the back when he embraced her, her fair complexion a blood red color. [color=magenta]”I've come seeking council with Bobby…”[/color] She said lamely, her sad excuse the only one she would give him. She reached out and clutched his shoulder, her eyes relaying a message of peace. When Bobby came around, she smiled at him, getting up from her stool and pointing at the back room. [color=magenta]”I've come to talk to you...alone would be best but if they come, they come.”[/color] Liz glanced pointedly at Fenros and Flint, then began to walk towards the back room. She looked back once, to see if Bobby was following, and used the remainder of her short journey to think of what she would say. It wasn't likely that she could bring peace, but she wasn't going to give up. Bobby grunted as his worry for her wellbeing turned into concern for something worse. But he followed her anyways. Flint though was taken back and confused at her reaction, also the fact that she wanted to speak alone to Bobby. Girl gets forced into slavery to save him and all she can do is want to talk to Bobby. Fenros had his arms folded, also confused at her words. He also noticed the hurt in Flint's eyes as well, and the fact that he wasn't moving from his spot. As if he was going to accept the womans wishes to speak to Bobby alone. Instead of allowing him to wollow in self pitty he reached out and grabbed his brothers shoulder, and shoved him towards the back room, sending him sprawling foward. Flint was taken by surprise and yelped as his feet worked wildly to regain his balance and not fall flat on his face. Once he did he glared back at Fenros, who had alway taken steps to follow him and only pushed him again till they were in the back room. Shutting the door with a bit of force to make a point behind them. Bobby eyed the boys for a moment before saying,"Alright Liz... Wot's going on?" Elizabeth glared at Fenros as he slammed the door, but her eyes softened as they swept over Flint. He seemed hurt, and confused, but she had no time to pull him away and explain herself. She had no time to stop him from hating her entirely. She turned instead to Bobby, who had asked her to explain. [color=magenta]”I'm here, on behalf of Castle Bloodrose and its occupants, to plead for peace. We don't need a war, Bobby. I know what Mat has probably told you, I know that he has given you the location of the Castle. You can't attack Bobby, the witches there are innocent.”[/color] Liz’s eyes bore hard into Bobby’s. She couldn't move them, because if she shifted her gaze to meet Flint’s or even Fenros’, tears would fall. [color=magenta]”Bobby, you have to understand. When I first came to the Castle I was confused...now I have a better understanding of the witches. They aren't killers. There are children in that castle, Bobby. Some witches there have barely reached the age of maidenhood.”[/color] Bobby's eyes narrowed at the fact she mentioned not to attack. How the in Hell did she know of the attack on the castle? Before he could say anything though, Fenros spoke up. "Witche's aren't Killers?" He asked almost amusingly. "Witches have been using us for blood sacrifices, rituals, potions, and what ever else ever since the first witch. " He kept his arms folded as he glared at Liz, "I will be the first to say that there are some witches that are good. But not all...and especially not Lorelai Von'strauss, nor her family. Which is why my family has hunted hers since the begining. Who had killed my Father and Mother as well in revenge. desicrated their bodies and did so to how many more people unfortunine to be in her path. " Flint said nothing, he was now even in more shock that the woman was now pleading for the witches lives. He simply leaned against the wall and listened. "Besides that..." Bobby interjected. " Matrim was tortured there as well. Used as a ginypig for experaments. How is that ok Child? They forced you to be there, and now you are brainwashed into speaking for them?" "Also, the fact she knew about the attack. Means that there is a traitor among us..." Fenros sighed. Elizabeth’s face remained set, her stony expression cool as they lashed out at her with reasonable arguments. [color=magenta]”Lorelai's family was slain, Fenros. She has grown from that, she bears no ill will against you or Flint. When you come knocking on her door, she will accept it, for what she did to your father. However, that is besides the point at this moment.”[/color] Elizabeth smoothed down her armor as though it were fabric, letting the silence calm everyone down just for a moment. [color=magenta]”At the castle, Matrim was tortured, that is sad but true. However, he was freed and given a room. He also had access to food, so he was not kept on a leash. Then he burned the room to the ground and fled. This is why I know of the attack, we are not daft by any means Fenros. I left as soon as word spread that Matrim was gone.”[/color] Elizabeth looked at Fenros, not giving him the satisfaction of a glare. Then she turned back to Bobby, and folded her arms. [color=magenta]”This is the part that will be the toughest to explain to you, all of you. I was not brainwashed...I came here of my own will. That castle is my home now, and I will not let it be destroyed by my friends. Hate me, if it makes you feel like a bigger man, or stay confused, if it helps you cope. I am here asking for peace because I don't want to lose any of you.”[/color] Fenros glared at Elizabeth, she had to be under a spell, or brainwashed somehow. He has seen it before many times. Before he could say anything Flint finally spoke up. "Liz... you went there because of me, Lorelai is a manlipiative witch that has killed hundreds of hunters, besides our father. Her family has done even worse? You remember stories of the black plauge? It was introduced by her family. Who summoned the Demon lord of Disease! That one Demon killed MILLIONS. How is being a witch, able to summon Demons, who's only goal is to destory all humanity because they want to possess our bodies. Make them Innocent? The rituals they do are vile. How can you even..." He sighed as he couldn't even finish, his blood boiling with hate for Lorelai, and pain that Liz was acting like this. Suddenly both of them heard their wolves outside, "Fenros! Flint! Something doesn't smell right in there! We smell Demonoic stain mixed with Elizabeth's scent!" Fenros and Flint stood straighter, and shifted ever so slightly as they eyed Elizabeth. So something did happen to her, that has changed her. Fenros remembered everything in Bobby's place that could help them. It was designed to be a safeplace against all witches/monsters/and demons. Fenros looked at Flint then back to Liz. "Fine, message recieved. Now leave, go and tell Lorelai she will expect Flint and I to Be there shortly. " Elizabeth watched as the two stiffened, their wolves having barked outside the door. She couldn't understand the two animals, but they had done something to alert the two brothers. Elizabeth tensed, her muscles flexing as they told her to go. She stayed where she was, ready for interference. [i]’Sousiel, I need you to wake up. Something is wrong, stay dormant until I find out what it is.’[/i] Elizabeth chewed on her bottom lip, and nodded curtly. [color=magenta]”I'm sorry to hear that, I really am. Castle Bloodrose will be ready, when you come.”[/color] She took a few steps forwards, eyeing the brothers warily as she tested the air. When nothing happened, her tension calmed just slightly, and she pushed past the brothers, reaching for the door. Before her hand could touch the handle, she was met with an uncomfortable pain. It didn't hurt much, it was more of a sudden throb that became noticeable as she reached. She recoiled, her eyes widening with recognition. Liz grasped her whip, not yet equipping it. She took a few steps back from the ward, heading to the center of the room. She wasn't yet sure how it would affect Sousiel, and she didn't want to test it. Her gaze attached itself to Flint, and it was her turn to be hurt. [color=magenta]”You won't even let me leave? Is it worth it to spill my blood? At least wait until we're on the battlefield. Spare the civilians.”[/color] Flint eyes closed for a moment, she had a demon in her. It could have explained her siding with the witches. But something inside told him otherwise, though he hoped that it really wasn't true. Bobby cursed and Flint looked at her again, His eyes hardened, knowing what he had to do, his resolve even more firm on killing Lorelai now. Fenros spoke, "We would have let you leave... but you have a demon in you, that's why you can't leave. You are standing in a Demon trap." He pointed to the ceiling that showed a pentogram designed to bind Demons to a certain spot. "Is that something Lorelai forgot to mention?" Flint asked, his voice shaky as his anger grew. He looked to Fenros and said, "Let me handle this one?" Fenros gave a nod and slipped his sword off his back, just in case, while flint took a step towards Liz, pulling holy oil from his back pouch from under his hood. He looked at Liz and said, "I'm sorry I couldn't protect you from Lorelai..." His eyes full of sorrow as he raised his right arm to the square and then started to speak Hebrew. "בשם ישו , ואת סמכותי לגרש רע , אני קורא את הסמכויות של שמים לגרש שד זה המתגורר בך ..." Sousiel's eyes flew open inside Liz's mind as Flint spoke, she writhed in pain as the sanctified words filled the air. A quick examination of her surroundings told her that escape was going to be complicated, if possible at all. She let out a ragged scream in Dragon's Tongue, cutting through the holy words, for now. [color=92278f][i]"Alright kiddo, end of the line. Tell Lorelai her boobs are awesome."[/i][/color] Sousiel opened Liz's mouth, and spoke. [color=92278f]"Alright boys, let's hold on a second."[/color] She grinned. [color=92278f]"Name's Sousiel, I'm just here for Liz's protection. You see, Lorelai's taken quite the liking to Miss James here, and knowing your base impulses I thought I'd ensure that she made it out of this just fine."[/color] She looked between the three hunters. [color=92278f]"So whadduya say boys? How about I step out, you guys do what you do best, and Liz here gets to go home. That sound alright?"[/color] Elizabeth's gaze turned hard as Flint spoke his Hebrew, Sousiel woke and took over her mouth, but she still had plenty of control over her body. [i]’Sousiel, Lore's boobs are awesome, and you will see them again. In the meantime, I'll make sure to tell her. Before we separate, let me take a swing.’[/i] She chuckled inwardly, and took hold of her whip. She began to spin it through the air, its distinctive hum getting louder and louder. Taking control of her lips, she stretched them before giving her final line to Flint. [color=magenta]”I'm sorry that I couldn't protect my friends from war. I wouldn't do this under normal circumstances, but you injured my friend.”[/color] With that, she swung her whip in a wide arc. Its pace was increased, along with the force of the swing, all perks being a Dragon Knight and having a demon in her body. The dart cut low, its blade menacing. She wouldn't hold back, they were her enemies now. Fenros and Flint had taken a step back as Liz pulled her whip and started to whip it around, Flint started speaking in Hebrew again and Fenros shifted his massive sword just enough to swing it upwards. just in time to meet the whip 3/4 of the way to the end, and witht he heavier mass of the blade against the chain, the chain wrapped around the blade coming to a sudden stop. The dart however, suddenly launched to the right, towards the door. Fenros did not take the time to watch where it went, as he used the criticle time he had Liz off balanced and confused to pull with all of his strength, yanking the tiny girl in comparison towards him and lowering his stance and extending his left elbow as he pulled his blade acrossed his chest. Liz would come sprawling towards him and his armored elbow would slam into the girls ribs. In an attempt to knock her out of breath. Grunting as the shock of her body slammed into his elbow he watched as she flopped to the floor and let go of her whip. He stood back up and realized...Flint wasn't speaking. Flint was on the ground, his eyes wide as he was in shock at the sudden thud against his chest. He didn't even see the blade release from the whip when it was wrapped around his brothers sword. He felt the hot lifeforce flowing from his wound in his chest. Fenros was distracted at the sudden realizion Flint might be killed. [color=92278f][i]"Nice! On second thought, fuck splitting, we out!"[/i][/color] Sousiel opened Liz's mouth as Flint fell silent. She screamed in Dragon's Tongue again, this time drinking deeply of her Mistress' power. The room darkened, and shook as blasphemies rolled of Liz's tongue. With a loud crack the cieling split, breaking the circle. Sousiel smirked as she saw Fenros' blade shatter, sending him against the wall, and shrapnel across the room. [color=92278f][i]"Alright Liz! Let's get out of here."[/i][/color] Sousiel poured as much of her might into Liz's limbs as she could. Elizabeth laid still on the floor, staring at Flint, whose blood was pouring from his chest. Her breath shook as Sousiel’s shockwave hit the room, the ward now broken. In her mind, a single sound played on repeat, the sickening crack of three ribs breaking. Adrenaline had started to carry her through, until she had seen Flint. Tears streamed freely from her eyes, even as she pushed herself from the floor, her body invigorated by Sousiel's might. The tears kept coming as she fled the room, not looking back. They came even heavier as she ran from the wolves, teeth nipping at her heels. They didn't stop as she bypassed her tired horse, giving its mane a final stroke. Her body left, but her mind was still there, with Flint, on the floor of the back room. The first blood of the war had been shed, because of Liz. Even as the sound of her bone breaking was replaced by shouts of hunters giving chase, even as she ran through the streets, her extraordinary speed only being kept by Sousiel. Even her doom, which would probably be at the tip of an arrow, or the point of a blade, couldn't take her mind off of what she had seen. Flint's ragged breaths, his blood draining from his wounds, would stick in her mind for what seemed like eternity. Andri had made things quick. He had dropped of the bag with the more important half of his posessions in front of Lorelai's chamber so it wouldn't hamper him. The location of his sudden reenty into the plane of ordinary humans was his shed. It made sure that noone would see or hear it happen. The assassin intended to go back to the meeting that perhaps still was going on, or, if not, at least see if Liz was there and intercept her if there would be the occasion. However he didn't make it farther away from his doorstep then like a few yards. The sound of a conglomerate of footsteps made in quick succession guided his view into the right direction. Liz! Goddamn the thing had gone wrong! But... how the hell could she move so fast ? He would never be able to catch her by running... [color=fff79a][i]I'm sensing something. It appears that your friend has... picked up a demon. Just like you did.[/i][/color] Andri could hear Khan chuckling. [i]Now[/i] he had questions, but no time to ask them. Who knew how long Liz would be able to keep up what she was doing ? He had to rescue her, even if that meant making things obvious. [color=fff79a][i]As you wish... there it goes, your young hunter's career.[/i][/color] Once again Andri was ripped out of ordinary space, this time in a straightfoward direction. He reappeared a few meters in front of Elizabeth, hopefully enough time for her to slow down. There was hardly any time for talking, it all had to be quick. Elizabeth felt how sore she was, how she was so tired she could collapse. She pushed herself forwards though, one long stride at a time, each time she felt on the verge of collapse. Her path was clear, she could make it if she jus- Suddenly, Andri appeared in front of her. Liz blinked once, twice, her feet faltering. Everything seemed to slow, as she considered her options. She was being propelled like a rocket, she couldn't stop before an impact, lest she fall flat on her face and get stabbed in the back. Her head snapped behind her, and she saw her enemies. Some were confused by the sight of Andri, stopping where they stood, others kept coming. One more moment and she would be on top of Andri. Liz’s face hardened, but she had stalled for far too long. She could feel herself breaking down, the force of her ribs catching up to her. She pulled her fist up, but she had already given in. Her heart rate slowed, her legs turned to jelly and she wobbled, falling before she landed in Andri's arms. Her chest heaved, her face flushed red, she was covered in a thin layer of sweat. The mental damage was the worst part though, even if she had fight left in her, she couldn't hit Andri. Hadn't she done enough already? [color=magenta]”I'm so sorry, Sousiel. Forgive me.”[/color] Sousiel on the other hand, saw their way out. Inside the giant frame rested a familiar prescence. [color=92278f]"Khan! Get us the fuck out of here!"[/color] Her voiced dripped with unspoken threats of failure, and what it would cost the worm. Little did she know, that had been the plan from the start. She prepared to pull wounds to herself, to spare Liz. [color=fff79a][i]DAMN! Out of all creatures, why does it have to be that one! Sousiel! I don't believe that![/i][/color] [color=00a99d]"What the..."[/color] The demon worm had decided to poof in an instant. As Liz had already fallen into his arms and did not put up much of a resistance, he took her with them. It had gone so fast and surprising that Andri did continue his sentence in a garden he knew too well by now. [color=00a99d]"...hell's going o... Oh."[/color] He was confused. Not so much time ago he had been in Seren's Folley listening to the hunter's gathering. Then he had been in Castle Bloodrose, then in Seren's Folley again, then on the outskirts of it, and then back here. He searched for one of the benches and swerved towards it. A bit of rest for a giant man, just for a moment... He took a deep breath and sighed. [color=00a99d]"Now... I have a ton of questions and likely do you, so who's to begin ?"[/color] Sousiel opened Liz's mouth. [color=92278f]"Oh well, you know me, I'm Elizabeth and I [i]love[/i] getting into trouble. Having the brave, gorgeous, savage Sousiel with me is a real pleasure."[/color] Smoke poured from the woman's mouth, pooling at her feet before shaping into Sousiel's nude form. She winked. [color=92278f]"Just kidding. Hunters will be hunters, and try to kill Knights looking for peace."[/color] She examined the small dent in Liz's chestplate, a good indicator of some damage. [color=92278f]"You alright?"[/color] As soon as Sousiel fled Liz’s body, a sob rocked her. She paid little mind to Andri, instead reaching out and grasping Sousiel's hand. [color=magenta]”Of course I'm not okay Sousiel! I left that damned whiskey on the bar when I was running out the door!”[/color] She laughed, but it soon dissolved into painful hiccups and tears. She wasn't steel, and now that her power source had left her, she felt every inch of her sore body. Liz didn't really care that she was a blubbering mess, she simply sat there, riding out the worst of the storm. The throbbing in her legs was no match for the pain in her side. Her stomach was an inky splotch where the impact had taken out her ribs, but that was hidden well under her armor. Now and again, she would shout the word [i]’Flint’[/i], and mumble some incoherent nonsense after it. It took her several minutes, but she was finally able to wipe away the last tear and stand. Her eyes swept them, and with her last bits of stubborn pride she marched away, en route to the liquor cabinet. [color=92278f]"It'll be okay Liz. Your body will heal."[/color] Sousiel hugged the knight briefly. She was no good at comforting, that's what Lorelai was for. [color=92278f]"I'll go get my mistress. She'll want to thank Andri here anyway."[/color] She nodded her thanks at the giant of a hunter before turning to leave. Andri became confused even more. Liz... just stepped away ? Why ? Had he done something wrong ? She had wanted to get away from Seren's Folley, didn't she ? The hunter didn't pay much attention to Sousiel. Instead, he went in pursuit of Elizabeth. Andri decided not to catch her up, but to just follow whereever her steps would lead them to. Liz staggered through the hall, one hand resting on her side and the other exploring the walls with her fingertips. As she moved, her legs stopped putting up a fight, the sorness fading fast. She also found the same occurance happening in her side, the nasty throbbing turning into a sad hum. She didn't deserve it, she wanted to heal naturally, stay bedridden for a day as her ribs set without the aid of magic. It didn't seem fair to her. Liz was acutely aware of Andri following her, he didn't try to hide it, and as she looked back she shot him glares full of venom. She knew looks wouldn't make him leave, and part of her was happy that he didn't want to abandon her to cope on her own. The other part of her wanted to be bratty, so she was, moving in an irritated silence until she reached the cafeteria. She hid inside the pantry, it was large enough to maneuver with ease. There, she stripped out of her armor, revealing her drenched clothing. Piling the armor up in a corner, she waited for Andri. Turning around so he couldn't see her chest when he entered, she peeled up her shirt and inspected her bruise. It saddened her that it would disappear so soon. Andri stopped, not coming closer to her then a few yards. There was deep sadness in his face, too. After all, he felt that he had failed. There would be no peace, not after this. Liz was still here, and it was clear to him that this entire attempt in Seren's Folley probably just had done a great job in boosting her will to stay here. At least that would have been his own reaction. And he was doomed to stay here, too. He had just teleported in front of a lot of hunters, taking Liz with him. His name now was on the list, too. It had to be. And was he prepared for that ? No. He would have to hide like a rat. Out of a need, he made a grab for the next bottle. He didn't even look at what its label read, he just yanked the cork out of it and started gobbling multiple slugs so fast that the liquor was leaking out left and right of his mouth, dripping both onto his leather armor and the floor. Liz turned, hearing the sound of Andri entering the room. He stayed away from her, a far void that she couldn't fill. He took a bottle and started chugging, so Liz did too. She grabbed the one closest to her, uncorking it with her teeth and gulping down its contents. She let the silence settle between them, the only sounds were gulps and the dripping of liquor that didn't quite hit their mouths. When her bottle was gone, Liz spoke up. [color=magenta]”Flint's dying, he has his healing abilities but I don't know if he'll make it. Worst case scenario, he survives and I'll have to kill him in battle to protect my love. You're stuck now, Fenros knows there is a traitor.”[/color] She waited to see his reactions to her words, but reached behind her and clenched the neck of another bottle. Staring him down, she uncorked it and began to drink. The giant's eyes became glassy as he spoke: [color=00a99d]"I've screwed up. I have tried to stop them, telling them that the plan was insane, but noone listened. Then I decided to go here and find you as I've learned why they're planning on this. Lorelai told me you were already on your own way so I returned immediately. Now we can't do a shit but watch how not only Flint will probably die, but many more as well. And if Rebecca's premonitions and statements are correct even more could be at stake in consequence of this."[/color] The first bottle was emptied quickly. It didn't suffice at all. Elizabeth passed him another bottle, watching his glassy eyes with a strong empathy. [color=magenta]”Yeah, we're screwed.”[/color] She acknowledged, as they drained away the castle’s collection of alcohol. It was their own personal way of handling the situation, and Elizabeth was rather glad she could spend her time moping with Andri. Anyone else would try to be productive, pry the drink from her hand and talk it out. They realized how messed up the situation was, and talked it over as they let go of their inhibitions. [color=magenta]”I tried for peace, I could have tried harder though. They were going to kill Sousiel, I couldn't let them do it. Do you understand?”[/color] When her eyes started to cloud, the threat of another onslaught of tears, she moved over to Andri and wrapped an arm around him. It was meant to be a hug, as she pressed her cheek up against his steady chest, but her other arms was busy feeding her the liquor. [color=00a99d]"I tried for peace as well. That's all that I was trying from the very beginning of all of this. I wouldn't even have been able to spoil any plans for this hunt as the entire damn thing was presented to us just today. The only chance for me to do this would have been within the last few hours, but by then Mat had already arrived in Seren's Folley and you already were on your way I think. But who cares about true intentions and how it really was..."[/color] He didn't sigh. The way he sucked out a more and more impressive amount of alcohol from the bottles did tell enough about how he felt right now. He reacted to Liz's hug by putting one of his hands on her shoulder. It was trembling and tired. Everything had been lost. [color=00a99d]"I understand that you didn't want to let Sousiel die. I've started to protect a demon worm myself because I had the feeling that it would be the right thing for what he has done."[/color] Elizabeth shivered at Andri's hand, trembling on her shoulder as though he had been cold and starved. She set aside her bottle, and gave him a comforting squeeze. [color=magenta]”I'm sorry, Andri. It seems like I was the catalyst for this war.”[/color] She sighed and took a step away, reaching up to place her hands on his shoulders. It was an awkward position, but she hoped it would ease the dread. [color=magenta]”What do you say, we lock ourselves up in here for tonight and in the morning, we can call ourselves sane?”[/color] At that point, nothing sounded better to Liz. She didn't know how Andri would react though. Already deciding for herself, she chose a spot on the floor where there wasn't any puddles, and used the chestplate of her armor as a headrest. [color=00aeef]"Oh, a sleepover. Mind if I join?"[/color] Lorelai's voice came from the doorway behind the pair. Her eyes scanned Liz for injuries that needed attending to, her mouth curling into a relieved smile when she found none. She noted the empty bottles littering the ground beneath them, and retrieved a bottle for herself from a nearby shelf. [color=00aeef]"Drinking ourselves to sleep are we?"[/color] She arched an eyebrow. [color=00aeef]"Sousiel tells me I owe you a debt Andri."[/color] She leaned against the frame of the doorway. She uncorked her bottle and took a modest pull. [color=00aeef]"I tend to agree. Name something reasonable, and I'll grant it. It's the least I can do for the man that returned my heart."[/color] Andri winced when Lorelai suddenly made her presence noticeable. [color=00a99d]"Your... heart ?"[/color] That did explain a bit, but [i]just[/i] a bit. He couldn't be mad at Liz for that. It was everyone's right to choose whatever love one wanted to, even if that one was a witch and even if he did not know much about her. There were still a myriad of details he really wanted to ask both of them, but not now. Andri's state was beyond judging if something was appropriate or not, he was just dead tired, paired with a strong desire to make the damn reality just disappear around them and never come back. [color=00a99d]"I guess 'reasonable' doesn't include time travel or fiddling with causality itself."[/color] he responded with dry sarcasm, still not letting go of the bottle he had. The assassin shrugged shoulders. [color=00a99d]"I don't know. There's nothing in my mind right now."[/color] He felt so... empty. And yet filling himself up with an amount of liquor that would take down even him at some time. Elizabeth cocked her head towards Lorelai, a glint of passion in her eyes that replaced the storm. Andri didn't seem quite as happy, but she couldn't blame him. Lorelai had to be adjusted to, and he obviously wasn't there yet. Her expression turned cool and she looked up at the ceiling, preparing what had to be said. [color=magenta]”The peace offering was a total bust. The boys...they said they were coming for you. They want nothing more than to see you dead. I harmed...someone, but I'm sure Sousiel already told you about the fight.”[/color] Liz had tried to will herself to say Flint, but every time she opened her mouth to do so, her voice cracked. She didn't know what had changed when Lorelai stepped in the room, but she had the urge to fold in on herself. [color=magenta]”Andri and I were just bumming it, what did you do today love?”[/color] [color=00aeef]"I'm sorry love, but it wasn't likely to begin with was it?"[/color] Lorelai smiled reasurringly at Elizabeth. Sousiel had given her the details, including the wound Flint had received. Lorelai knew too well the sting of facing a friend on the battlefield, and certainly didn't envy the huntress' posistion. What else was there though? For now she'd just tend to the woman's needs in whatever way she could. [color=00aeef]"I'm sure he's fine dear."[/color] She sighed. [color=00aeef]"I've been working on some ways to keep the bloodshed to a minimum, on either side."[/color] She moved over to Liz's corner, taking a seat and shifting the blonde huntress' head into her lap. She turned to Andri, stoking her knight's hair affectionately. [color=00aeef]"Believe it or not I don't possess a strong desire to see hunters die. Strange thing for a witch to say isn't it?"[/color] [color=00a99d]"If I had not thoughts on certain topics that are somewhat deviating from the common sense, I wouldn't be here right now, would I ?"[/color] The hunter grabbed himself a chair and sat down. [color=00a99d]"I'm afraid I won't be of any help here anymore, to be honest. I've failed and am now suffering from the same problems like Liz... fighting friends. And this will likely be a gruesome battle of attrition. I'm no witch."[/color] Elizabeth sat up when Andri said he wouldn't be useful, her face looking almost hurt. Was he going to leave them? She couldn't stop him, but the thought was discouraging. [color=magenta]”You may not be a witch Andri, but do you think I am either? You're always welcome here, and you'll always be useful. You're great at what you do, I've seen you in action.”[/color] She was pleading at that point, but she would never admit to it if someone asked. Andri attempted to smile at Liz for her encouraging words, but his overall collapsed mood and the onset of slight dizzyness, more likely than not caused by an entire drawer worth of beverages he hadn't even cared about their strength, foiled it. [color=00a99d]"I've no idea. This isn't against any strange undead beasts, it's against people we considered friends and still do for the most part I think."[/color] He imagined himself standing behind some of the hunters he had met in Seren's Folley since his arrival, not being able to wrap his garrotte around their neck. Another bottle! Now! He wanted to forget about everything, though he perfectly knew that it would only be temporarily. Of course, Khan was protesting, but he didn't care. That demon worm had become a minor concern for him. Elizabeth nodded sincerely, she knew what Andri meant. [color=magenta]”I'm not talking about the war, I'm saying that here, you can be useful. You don't have to shy away from us.”[/color] This was the last she said, Andri wasn't going to be coherent for much longer, and she could hardly speak as it was. She settled back down into Lorelai's lap, grabbing the closest bottle and continuing to drink. [color=00aeef]"I provide my support for you remaining here. This did cost you your home after all."[/color] She frowned at the bottle in Liz's hand, it seemed they were determined to bury their pains in liquor. What else was there though? She wrapped her arms around Elizabeth's waist, and planted a small kiss on her cheek. [color=00aeef]"At least you two are back safe, I'll count that as a victory."[/color] [color=00aeef]"We're in a castle full of beds... did you two really want to pass out here?"[/color] She looked between the two hunters. She for one could use the benefit of a good night's rest, and the hunters likely more so. [color=00aeef]"Andri still has a room, I'll see to it in the morning that it's permanent. And my bed has fresh sheets."[/color] She added the last bit playfully. Elizabeth looked at Lorelai, who was happy and joking. It pained her to say so, but Liz didn't want to feel happy at this time. [color=magenta]”I think I need some time to myself Lorelai, to really think about what happened today. We have a lot of planning to get done now, but I'll be up to bed in time.”[/color] She smiled and avoided Lorelai's eyes by looking through the selection they had in the pantry. Andri blinked. Not only his sense of balance started to fade now, but still the hunter tried to speak about serious things. [color=00a99d]"Safe ? For the next few hours, but then ? The attack will come..."[/color] His pronunciation was suffering. Just by looking around one could see that he had taken a very intimidating toll on the coven's supply of liquors, and now it gradually came back to haunt him. His mind attempted to piece together the location of his room. Rebecca had guided him there once, but his current state made remembering more difficult. Groaning, the giant got up from his chair, stating [color=00a99d]"I'll be in bed and talk to you tomorrow, Lorelai."[/color]. What spell it would have required to [i]clearly[/i] understand that last sentence - who knew. Given how the assassin started adding length to his path by making unnecessary turns and twists and how his upper body started swinging from one side to the other, he better hurried. Lorelai smiled at Andri as he left the small pantry, sighing internally. She understood Liz's desire to be alone, to grieve for what may be lost friends. If there was time for such things Lorelai would give her sweetheart as much time as she needed, but there wasn't. Tomorrow would only be a day closer to the bloody end, and whatever came next. [color=00aeef][i]"Sousiel, bring me Triss, now."[/i][/color] She called out to her familiar mentally. Lorelai squeezed the huntress affectionately. [color=00aeef]"I understand, but if you're looking for relief. There are better things than liquor, I've sent for someone who may be able to help you."[/color] She kissed her love's cheek one more time. [color=00aeef]"Trust me?"[/color] Elizabeth looked at Lorelai, her brow furrowing deeply. [color=magenta]”Better than liquor? What a load of malarkey. This is how I deal with everything Lore, and I've turned out fine.”[/color] She laughed, covering up her disappointment well. She knew Lorelai was trying to help, and it was sweet of her to do so, but Liz favored loneliness and she wasn't sure she wanted a witch toying with her head. [color=magenta]”I trust you though...I'm sure it won't be bad.”[/color] Triss stumbled into the room, her nightgown tucked lazily into a pair of trousers. Her hair was thrown up just as haphazardly, it was obvious Sousiel had given her a rude awakening. [color=89fdc5]”There's no ignoring that pillock is there? What do you need me for?”[/color] She rubbed her eyes, staring at the two lovebirds. [color=89fdc5]”Is she the cause of those moans in your head? Very amusing.”[/color] Elizabeth looked at the new witch, shocked at how she treated Lorelai. [color=magenta]”[i]This[/i] is the witch that's supposed to heal me? Is that a joke Lorelai?”[/color] Triss squinted, she had no time for this. [color=89fdc5]”You actually wanted me to become a healer? I thought that was a jest.”[/color] [color=00aeef]"You're not really in a position to take anything I say as a jest. Yes, I want you to take Liz's pain away."[/color] Lorelai said calmly, her cheeks heating from Triss comment. She should have expected Sousiel to be rough with the poor girl. [color=00aeef]"I'm sorry about Sousiel, Triss. Would you please help me? I'll consider it a personal favor."[/color] She squeezed Liz's hand reassuringly. [color=00aeef]"This is Triss honey, she's got a unique gift. I hope you can excuse her demeanor, it is the middle of the night after all."[/color] Triss shuddered, Sousiel had offered Triss many ‘personal favors’ if she didn't get out of bed. [color=89fdc5]”Sure, I'll do it, but it won't take away her pain forever. She have anything I should...avoid?”[/color] Triss laughed darkly, her eyes glinting with somehing fierce. It was mostly to scare Liz, but a part of her wanted to utilize any evil she could get. Elizabeth’s mouth gaped, and she looked between Lorelai and Triss. [color=magenta]”There is no way, no way in hell. I would rather destroy my liver, than let her mess with my head. Do you honestly trust her?”[/color] [color=00aeef]"Believe it or not, yes. Although her bearing could use some work."[/color] Lorelai sighed as the two got off to what might be the worst first impression in history. Triss rolled her eyes, ready to leave. [color=89fdc5]”You have no choice, Blondie. I would listen to Lorelai, she has a mean spittle.”[/color] Triss laughed, enjoying how easy it was to tick the blonde off. [color=89fdc5]”Now lock eyes so I can go to bed.”[/color] Elizabeth clenched her fist, ready to jab at the girl's face. She unclenched her fist slowly, and nodded. [color=magenta]”If it means you'll leave, I'll do anything.”[/color] Triss chuckled. [color=89fdc5]”What am I bringing out, Lorelai? Anything special? You want a wild night of passion or something?”[/color] [color=00aeef]"Just find something happy in there, and draw it forward. It won't last forever, but it'll get her through tonight."[/color] Lorelai winked. [color=00aeef]"If I get a wild night out of it so much the better, but I trust you know what you're doing Triss."[/color] Her eyes betrayed her worry, and promised vile things should Triss misplace the trust she was placing in her. [color=00aeef]"Relax sweetheart, and let Triss do her work, so we can all get on with our evening."[/color] Lorelai smiled encouragingly at Elizabeth. Triss smiled, devilish in the pale light of the pantry. She rubbed her eyes and took a step few steps forwards, kneeling and facing Liz. [color=89fdc5]”Trust me?”[/color] She asked happily, her voice still a bit tired as she sought out Liz’s sapphire eyes. She had ignored Lorelai's looks, not afraid of the witch. If anything, she was more afraid of Sousiel fulfilling her promises. Elizabeth groaned, giving Lorelai one last look to tell her just how apprehensive she was. Then, with a subtle feeling that Triss would make her into a drooling vegetable, she locked eyes with the girl. [color=magenta]”I don't have much of a choice, do I?”[/color] Triss didn't have to answer, her powers surging as she entered Liz’s mind. The girl wasn't sure about Triss, so she had put up a fragile wall. It tumbled almost instantly, and Triss was in. The girl's head was foggy, everything clouded by the liquor she had been consuming. Triss rolled her eyes, using her powers to seek out the hidden emotions. Liz was feeding off fear, and Triss moved past it with a roll of her eyes. She didn't want to be a healer, it wasn't fun. She had to help people, and she didn't even get to experiment. Being as tired as she was, she went straight for lust. Maybe Lorelai would like it more if Liz was overdone with passion. She drew from it, leading it around the fog and balling it up in the forefront of Liz’s mind. It was a potent concentration, and the alchol would make it worse. Triss added a bit of happiness to the mix, it swirled around in little whisps, outdone by the lust. As soon as Triss was done she pulled out, she looked over at Lorelai and gave her a hard stare. [color=89fdc5]”You owe me, I hate messing with drunks. If you find my body mutilated in my bed tomorrow, it was Sousiel. Have fun with Blondie, she's a lust bomb.”[/color] She fled the room, just as the emotions started to take over Liz. Elizabeth’s eyes flashed, she looked at Lorelai. Her entire body was overtaken by lust, the need for passion and sex. She didn't know what that witch had done, but it was addicting. She lunged at Lorelai, pinning her to the floor with her body. [color=magenta]”This time, you're mine.”[/color] She growled, nibbling on Lorelai's ear. She wondered how long this would last, and how crappy she would feel when it was over, but that was the least of her concerns. [i]This Triss situation might need revisited later.[/i] Lorelai thought to herself mildly, there was still something dark in the girl's eyes. Wasn't that to be expected though? She pushed it aside and focused on the situation at hand. Liz's body over top hers was a welcome warmth, but the pantry!? Really!? [color=00aeef]"I'm always yours my love, but the pantry? Perhaps we should take this to my chambers."[/color] Her protests were undercut by small moans. Elizabeth's hands on her body, her breath hot against her ear, and the delightful sensation of her teeth on her earlope conjured the sultry dreams that had haunted her daymares of late. There were times for decorum, and then there were these times. A passionate lover burying pain and renewing love in a darkened pantry on the eve of war. Lorelai surrendered her body to Elizabeth's touch.