earlymorninstar

[Beneath a moonless sky] 18+ [Arista x 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

[Beneath a moonless sky] 18+ [Arista x 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

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

Christian was careful to speak, unwilling to start a fight when the man had that many acquaintances under one roof - and he knew full well Clara would intervene. So he sat still, eyeing the male with a new disdain the entire time he’d spoken. He’d seen his expressions, tried to read him, however, his words were hardly satisfactory. Hell, Christian hadn’t known why he was giving the man even an opportunity to let Clara down once more - but at the end of it all, or even anywhere along the way he’d regret it if he’d make another mistake.

“See to it that you do try to fix it.” Christian bit out, coming to a stand as Kieran had. He did not speak further, watching the other male as he left the room before he slowly headed upstairs himself. He was full of frustration, knowing exactly what he’d wanted to do to keep Clara from him. He didn’t need the female to get hurt any further and he seriously doubted that Kieran could do anything to try and heal their situation. No good could come of this. And if it had failed, just as he thought it might, he would take her far, far away again where Kieran couldn’t find her; where he couldn’t hurt her again.

He had paused at Clara’s door momentarily, his hand wavering above the knob in a moment of hesitation. No, he probably shouldn’t wake her if she’d fallen asleep -- perhaps the alcohol would have done her some good that night and she was able to find solace in that.

With a slow sigh, Christian headed towards his own room before settling carefully into bed. This definitely had changed things, he thought, and he wasn’t sure how everything would play out over the next few days. Clearly, Christian’s relationship with Kieran had suddenly shifted, and he wasn’t sure if he could stay around the male for too long. Silently, he wondered if any of the others really were aware of who Clara was, especially to Kieran, or if they’d assumed she’d been a local who wanted to help. Either way, the man had eventually drifted to sleep and was up early for coffee once more.

-
The next morning Clara had risen late yet again, the feeling of exhaustion still heavy on her bones. She was finding it more and more difficult to sleep there, and she almost wondered if she should ask Christian to find another place to stay. Her thoughts ate at her endlessly, offering her no relief of the day come night time.

With a frown, she’d stepped into the shower, allowing the hot water to envelope her. She’d been in there for far too long, perhaps, before she’d decided to leave it’s comforts, slowly dressing and brushing through her long curls again. She’d pushed a stray one out of her face and back into the haphazard up-do that she’d placed it in, before slowly headed downstairs in search of her own coffee - her steps quiet, not a word to be said.

@Arista

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

Out of all of the things that Christian had expected, he hadn’t entirely expected Kieran to come out with the truth so quickly. It almost caught him off guard, however, his emotionless expression did not waver. The man sat back in his seat, his hands resting on each arm of the chair in an attempt to keep himself in check. He would allow the male to speak, that much he knew. He needed to at least get his side of the story, although he didn’t want to hear it all in the same. There was no excuse good enough to justify what had happened to Clara that night; there was absolutely nothing that man could do to heal those wounds that continued to reopen. He really hadn’t a clue...

Christians hands came to tighten around the arms of the chair as Kieran spoke. So, he would blame it all on being hunted and being out of his mind. No, he had not meant to hurt her, but he’d hurt her in more ways than one throughout all of the years of abandonment. Perhaps it wasn’t his intention, but he’d left a hell of a shit-storm in his wake -- one that Christian had tried to tame tirelessly.

“You’re right.” Christian suddenly spoke, his voice oddly calm as he eyed Kieran, his eyes flashing in that anger that did not resonate throughout his body just yet. “You’ve entirely failed at both; yet first and foremost - you’ve failed her more than you can ever understand. Quite honestly, I’m surprised you are even sitting here in one piece in front of me. I’ve no idea how that woman can stand to be around you, let alone stay in your home. Perhaps it’s instinct, I suppose.” He continued, watching Kieran carefully.

“Your little mistake could have cost all of us as vampires - but it had cost that girl far more than you can ever imagine. For years she’s been tormented, wondering what the hell was wrong with her - that she’d been left behind that way. Could you imagine? She truly believed it was something she did to cause her to be abandoned; to cause her to suffer the way she had. She would have died that morning - and hell, she’d tried to die so many times in the years following. But I doubt any of that crossed your mind. I doubt she’d even crossed your mind until I brought her back here -- a terrible mistake, on my part.” His words grew further harsh as he felt the rage growing within him.

“I doubt you understand what an abandonment such as that could do to a person.” Christian paused. “For instance -- Ryanair. It’s easy to see he is one of yours -- and I’m sure that is such a wonderful sight for Clara to see so openly -- Could you imagine if he had simply been separated from you? I doubt he could continue on without being by your side for far too long - that pain of separation can get to a person - in more ways than one.”

“And it amazes me that we’re here. That after all that you’ve put her through - all of the suffering that she’s dealt with -- she’s still there to fight next to you - and you’ve hardly done shit in return. You know nothing of who she is; of who she became without you. You simply continue to take advantage.”

“You owe that woman the world, and I doubt you can ever begin to fix it. I’ve been with her since the beginning -- and I can’t even take that pain away.” Christian hissed as he stood. Clearly he was more a sire to Clara than Kieran ever could be, and to see Clara endure all of this in front of him - it only pissed him off even further.

@Arista

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

Clara had been tired - more so than she’d like to admit. Still, the girl ate in silence, and had anyone else not opened a bottle of wine - she sought it out herself. She needed a drink to keep her sane - needed something to keep her from snapping out. She’d felt it building up - she’d wanted to shove Ryanair aside in their little fight and take all of her anger out on Kieran, but she wasn’t allowed. There simply was no time. Either way, it was probably for the better. He had too many friends here - ones who had not asked whom she was, nor did she suspect they truly knew. For all they knew she could have just been a stray vampire in the area willing to help. For all they new, Christian could have been her sire.

As everyone cleared their plates, Clara had risen to clear her own. However, she soon returned when others parted, once more sneaking away with the remaining bottle of wine - her glass cradled to her chest. She was silent as she slipped away, back up to her room, shutting the door behind her. A slow sigh fell from her lips as she sat down on the bed, her back to the headboard before she took a slow sip of her wine again. She really needed to get sleep that night - and if she had to drink to get it, then so be it...

--
Christian had not looked at Kieran when he’d heard his words, nor had he reacted for Clara’s sake. The less she knew, the better. He did not need her snooping around should she find out Kieran wanted to talk to him. No, it was probably for the best if she was ignorant of it.

He’d played the part - acting as if he’d gotten ready for bed so Clara wouldn’t think a thing of it. He doubted any suspicion was on her mind anyway, he’d seen her steal away with a bottle of wine and knew it was going to be another one of those nights..

Eventually, his steps led him slowly towards the study where he was to meet Kieran. He’d seen the male sitting there, and he carefully approached, unsure of how to start the conversation. His suspicions were practically confirmed at that point and he wanted to go about it civilly... however, it was quite difficult given the circumstances. Kieran really had no idea what he’d done.

“I’m willing to assume that I probably already know the answer to my question.” Christian spoke quietly as he slowly took a seat, eyeing the male carefully before him. “You’re him, aren’t you?” His expression was plain, jaw set as he watched Kieran carefully. "...And she knows it full well."

@Arista

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

At first, Clara had been careful -- she’d stuck to going after Christian only because he had been familiar. The two squared off, neck and neck, neither one refusing to hold back simply because they knew the other wouldn’t. Clara was stubborn and Christian had learned it had only pissed her off if he held back. Eventually, the two had cause to split and Christian found himself against Esther, while Clara found herself against Ryanair -- perfect. She’d almost grinned when she realized who her partner was. No, she wouldn’t hold back one damn bit. She knew he was younger then her - hell, he was far younger than her and they’d both been raised very differently. In her youth she had begged Christian never to hold back -- she had no idea how well Kieran had trained him.

Clara kept to it, dodging punch after punch while aiming her own. She’d gotten a few good ones in and had given herself a pat on the back over it. When it had all been over and done with, however, she was catching her breath -- still tired from her lack of sleep but she knew full well he’d put up a good fight. They had to have another one of these sessions sometimes soon -- it felt good to get her aggression out on someone other than Christian -- especially if it had been against her very own replacement.

However, she would have loved to get her hands on Kieran...

Clara gave a little huff as everyone headed inside to gather their food, and Christian was automatically at her side again to check on her. She’d only brushed it off when she’d nudged him away from her, and she brushed a stray curl out of her face. Food sounded absolutely delicious at the moment and she would not deprive herself. Christian had only followed with a small huff behind her.

“I trust someone has opened a bottle of wine by now --” Clara murmured as they all headed into the kitchen. Christian had shook his head in response, however. No good ever came from that female drinking -- it either was going to be a very quiet night, or there would be a shit storm... He hoped she would just drink and go to bed, in all honesty. After all, he’d wanted a word with Kieran before the girl had gotten to him herself...

@Arista

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

At Kieran's response, Christian had raised a brow, but had not answered in return. What an odd way to answer him – considering it left more to the imagination than he desired. Still, he kept calm, and his hands remained in his pockets as he walked with the group. If this was her sire – well, not only would he still be entirely surprised that Clara hadn't given him a lashing; he would have to contain himself as well. Not only were his actions incredibly reckless those so many years ago, they were thoroughly irresponsible. He'd no idea what it had done to Clara – more so mentally than anything else. He knew nothing of those sleepless nights – the pure anger and pain – the sheer struggle of keeping her under control and keeping her from trying to destroy herself all in the same.

No; he really had no idea what he'd left in his wake that night. Christian had been the one to save her – and he would continue.

Yes – it definitely would be a discussion that Christian would not allow to pass them by.

He'd followed them all, eyeing his surroundings absentmindedly before they'd all stepped outside. Perhaps he could use a good fight at the moment – perhaps it would do him some good not to dwell on where his mind was taking him. He'd followed suit, rolling his sleeves carefully as each person had gotten prepared and had taken their spot.

Clara had only been a few short minutes behind. She'd nearly growled at that familiar pull urging her along to be with the group. She could do things on her own – she didn't need to be forced along the way. As the girl found her way towards the group, she hadn't even glanced towards Kieran, focused only on Christian whom she'd been surprised to see was mingling quite well – and clearly was ready to take part in whatever they had in mind.

"What the hell are you doing?" Clara hissed under her breath as she reached him.

Christian had only sighed and rolled his shoulders and head side to side for a moment. "Everyone has decided to have a little sparring match." He commented. "Now I know you've never turned me down, so I hope you plan to join us…" Clara frowned in return, her brow furrowed as she stood next to him. "...Whatever, Christian..." If it gave her the opportunity to kick someone's ass, then so be it… She probably could use a good fight to get her mind off of things. Hell, she'd rather go after Ryanair before anything involving Kieran would probably include someone having to pry her away.

@Arista

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

Christian only smiled in response at Esther's introduction, taking her hand gently as well before he was met with Kieran's a moment after. "Pleasure's all mine." He assured her, but had suddenly become distracted as he'd heard Ynez behind him. The male had turned his attention toward her and nodded in response. "Well, Clara and I do appreciate the hospitality and assistance you've all provides, and I'm certain we can offer up any aid that you may need as well." Christian continued, hoping at least to fit in for the time being – as for Clara, he'd at least liked to have established his own allies there before her attitude could get her into some trouble in the future.

Still, Christian watched the interactions in front of him, taking note that Ryanair had been Kieran's fledgling – and he, too, was still in one piece. He was beginning to doubt if Kieran was Clara's sire at all, considering both males had been standing in front of them and neither of them had been maimed by the female…

His thoughts had been interrupted by Kieran's words again and he glanced over at the male momentarily. "Yes; well, if you know her well enough, you'd know it's best to leave her to her own devices half the time." He'd only smiled slightly before taking note of everyone heading off together. Once more, his hands tucked into his pockets as he decided to follow.

"Speaking of which – how do you know each other? She's never made mention of knowing anyone in town before.."

Meanwhile, Clara had given a little groan as she rolled over, still feeling restless even though it was later in the morning. She knew she wouldn't get any further sleep, and honestly, it was getting too late. People might start asking questions. With a frown, the girl had gotten herself out of bed and thrown her long curls up into a quick, messy up-do before she ventured outside of her room. When she'd noticed Christian had already been up, she bit her lower lip. Who knew what he could have been getting into with those people, and who knew what information he could have been searching for…

With a bit more pep in her step, Clara headed down the hall and towards the stairs in search of where everyone had run off to that morning.

@Arista

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

Just as she had predicted, it had been a rather long night. The girl could hardly sleep, her mind racing and unable to rest. She'd tossed and turned, trying to find comfort in the bed that wasn't hers; trying to settle down and simply allow sleep to wash over her. It hardly happened. Sure, there were a few moments where she'd slipped off, but any sound had her jostled awake and she'd searched the room each time. Whether it was her imagination keeping her up or actual sound – she hadn't quite been sure. All she knew was that she was not going to get hardly as much rest as she had wanted – not in her own sire's home. He'd really done little to prove that he could be trusted.

Hell – why would she even want to trust him anyway? The thought had her scrunching up her nose as she pulled a pillow closer to her. No, she didn't need to get to know him. Hell, she hardly wanted anything to do with him and yet at least twice she'd already found herself helping him when she really didn't want to. She truly should have just let one of them off him for her…

--

When morning came, Christian had been the first to rise out of the two. He knew full well not to disturb Clara should she not be up yet, so he'd emerged from his room with a slow stretch and only a glance to her closed door. He could already guess the girl hadn't slept well – better to let her get up on her own as long as it wasn't too late.

He'd ran a hand through his hair to fix it up a bit before he'd headed downstairs towards the sounds of the others, hands soon pressed into his pockets as they'd come into view. Breakfast was waiting for them all, and for that he was grateful. He'd made himself his own plate before he meandered his way near Kieran.

"Well, pleasure to see you again." Christian offered kindly. "Although, I suppose it could have been on better circumstances…" He continued. Perhaps this was his chance to figure this all out. "I'm sure Clara will be up soon. She has a bit of trouble relaxing in unfamiliar places. I do apologize." He looked to the female that had been next to Kieran as well. "Ah – where are my manners? I'm Christian Nicolai, by the way." He continued, greeting Esther with a smile. "And whom, might I ask, do I have the pleasure of sharing this morning with?"

@Arista

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

Both Clara and Christian had watched the transformation before them, and Clara had only shifted a little closer to him. He'd noticed her apprehension and unease, partially wondering what the cause was. He knew this wasn't the most ideal situation, but Clara had been the one to lead him here. Her reluctance to being there was almost a surprise. Although, he had an inkling of the cause, Christian hadn't quite gotten an answer out of Clara just yet, nor had he the idea to ask her, knowing full well it would spark another argument and it simply wasn't the time for her brashness to come into light – not with all of these strangers around, ones whom she clearly was not accustomed to just yet.

At the mention of a revolt, Christian had sighed and ran his hand through his hair as he leaned back in his chair. Wonderful – If Clara knew anything about Christian, it was that he'd learned to lie low throughout all of his years. He'd made his allies, knew his friends, and attempted to steer clear of making many enemies. Clara had been thankful for that, however, it only added to her need for isolation. Now, shoved together with this group of people whom she still did not know other than a few short words between them, she wanted to run.

Christian knew he should have tended to his business and taken Clara elsewhere. Coming back to this town had been a massive mistake, he was learning day by day. Not only did it bring more trouble than he had asked for, he had that same suspicion that the man Clara had been lingering around for the past week or so, had indeed been her sire. Curious though – how the man was still standing, and Clara still could stand at least being around him. He'd wondered about that – and perhaps it was the only thing that gave him doubt.

"I agree- " Christian murmured after Kieran spoke, coming to a stand with the others. "It's better to regroup come morning."

Clara wasn't sure how she felt in that moment, watching Christian interact once more with Kieran – let alone having all of them trapped under the same roof. No, there probably wouldn't be much sleep that night, at least for her. Still, she followed behind everyone else, close to Christian and far from the others.

Eventually, they'd found their own rooms and Clara had made sure Christian was close. He'd paused at his own door for a moment. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine – why?" Clara suddenly bit out, her arms crossed over her chest. Christian had only raised a brow in return and Clara sighed. "I just don't like new places is all" A lie. "Forget about it."

"..Whatever you say, darling. I'm sure we'll figure all of this out come morning." He assured her and leaned over to give her a kiss on her forehead. "Try to get some sleep tonight…"

Clara had only brushed him off and turned from him without another word to head into her own room. She'd shut the door behind her and leaned against it momentarily to scan her new room with a slow sigh. It was going to be a long night – and hell, it was probably going to be a long time before they sorted it all out. She had a sneaking suspicion that she was going to be stuck around here for longer than she'd like – and honestly, there were no opportunities to seek out whichever revenge she'd formerly planned – not while she was having to save his ass so often; not while so many people were around, and Ryanair continued to see out his constant attention.

The girl frowned as she pushed herself away from the door and moved to plop herself down on the bed, curling up on her side. No; sleep wouldn't come to her so easily that night – not with her mind racing.

@Arista