Feb-8-2002 4:19 PM Message 46 of 245

Subject: Alone again. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 45 ]

~*Dahlia finishes her wine and sighs. The sun was just setting. It had been a day since Belle had left and she had thought a good day's sleep would have made her forget all about the silly little mortal girl. But Dahlia could not help thinking about the changes Belle would be experiencing. The beginning symptoms of increased nocturnal awareness, increased libido and so on would be accompanied by some others. Belle would be very sensitive to light and would possess an inquenchable thirst. Also her senses would be maginified, allowing her to see in pitch darkness, smell a fire from a mile away and hear worms burrowing in the earth beneath her feet. Shaking her head, Dahlia walks across the Main Room and out the door. She takes a familiar path through the forest and soon ends up in a secluded, long-forgotten bural site. One one gravemarker stands, a shadowed cross against the moonlight. Dahlia kneels down and runs her fingers along the cool stone, sighing as she does so. Tears she thought she had cried out long ago escape from under her lashes and spill down her pale cheeks.*~

"Alexander..." she breathes.

~*Dahlia clutches her fist to her heart to ward off the pain she knew would come with his name. Her sire, her first love...How she missed him. But we was long gone, killed by an angry mob of hysterical vampire-hating humans over a century ago. The tears continue to flow as the pain washes over her.*~

"I'm so alone. I need you to come back to me. My love, how I miss you."

~*The need for love, for tenderness and another of her own Kind was almost overwhelming. As she sobs, Dahlia lays down on the grave and quietly rocks herself to sleep...*~

***

Mar-17-2001 10:39 AM Message 47 of 245

Subject: A Fast Day [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 45 ]

"The Mistress stepped out for a walk, Miss," Dahlia's butler explained when he answered Belle's knock. "I do not know when she will return."

"Has she had dinner yet?" Belle inquired.

A strange expression crossed the man's pale and usually dour countenance. Belle thought for a moment that he might laugh. Instead, he regained his composure and resumed his professional tone with the aristocratic accent Belle could not identify. "No, Miss. She has not."

"Good," Belle smiled as she reached into her pocket and handed him the sheet of stationary containing the address of, and directions to, her family's lake house. "Please tell Dahlia that I would be honored if she would come to my home for dinner tonight. Tell her I apologize for the short notice, but that I really hope she can make it. Okay?"

"Yes, Miss. Is there anything else.?"

"No. Thank you."

"Very well then, I shall give the Mistress your message. Good evening, Miss."

"Good evening," Belle echoed as the door closed. She turned and ran back to her car. Despite the sun having set over a half hour earlier, Belle had no trouble seeing her way in the lingering dusk of the deep woods. Having stayed actively awake all night, Belle ended up sleeping almost the entire day. Now, with nighttime arriving, she felt wide awake, and incredibly alert. Even in the darkness, she leapt over roots and ducked low branches like some nocturnal predator tracking across the forest floor.

She reached her car and jumped in, turning the ignition with her right hand while fastening her seatbelt with her left. She accelerated up through all the gears and soon had the Miata flying down the highway at over ninety miles per hour. While sleeping all day may have helped her recover from a restless night, it had left her with little time to prepare for her guest. Despite the tardiness of her invitation --- and without even recognizing the oddity of her confidence --- some instinct left Belle certain that Dahlia would come.

***

Apr-13-2001 4:33 PM Message 48 of 245

Subject: An invitation. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 47 ]

~*Dahlia awakens on the cold earthen grave of her sire Alexander around 8pm. She wipes the dried tears from her cheeks and stands, taking once last glance at the grave and feeling her stomach clench. Then, turning, she walks back down the path to her home. Upon arriving Briant hands her a small piece of stationary with an address and directions on it.*~

"The lady Belle wishes for you to join her for dinner." Briant says with a smirk. "I do believe you should take her up on her generous offer, m'lady. Tis been a long time since you've supped on fresh blood. Perhaps it will cheer you a bit."

~*Dahlia smiles slightly, folding the stationary and handing it back to Briant.*~

"Tis been even longer since you have, Briant. I will send for a nice human to be brought to your quarters tomorrow evening. But tonight, I will dine with Belle and actually eat her definition of food. Send for the chaufer and I will change clothes."

~*It is true that vampires have no need for food. But they still enjoy the taste once in awhile. While their bodies cannot digest it, they simply purge after the meal. Dahlia walks into her bedroom and opens the closet doors. So far Belle had only seen her dressed in fairy modest and conservative, but elegant and outdated gowns. A smile crosses Dahlia's lips as she pulls out a black leather ankle length skirt and a blood red silk V-neck blouse that dips far enough to show off her generous cleavage. Changing quickly into the outfit, she then puts on some black leather knee-high boots. She then walks over to her dresser and takes up a brush, running it through her mahogany colored hair until the red highlights glisten. Picking up a matching red silk purse and putting a lipgloss and blusher inside, Dahlia walks out into the main room.*~

"Your car is waiting on the highway, M'Lady." Briant says.

"Thank you. Take the night off, Briant. You're looking rather pale." she says.

~*With a grin, Dahlia hurries along the path to the highway and then steps into the sleek black towncar waiting for her.*~

"Do you have the directions, Adam?" she asks.

"Yes, M'lady. We will not be long." he responds.

~*Dahlia nods and smiles and then goes about applying her blood red lipgloss and slightly muted brown blusher. In a matter of minutes it seems they are pulling into a long driveway and then arrive at a lake-side well-sized home. Dahlia waits until Adam walks around to open the door for her, then steps out into the night.*~

"Thank you Adam, you will wait?" she says.

"Of course, M'Lady." he responds.

~*Nodding, Dahlia walks across the driveway and onto the porch, then standing before the door, knocks.*~

***

Oct-26-2001 4:04 PM Message 49 of 245

Subject: Perfect Hostess [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 47 ]

Belle smiles when she hears a car drive up, its door open then shut, and heels click sharply across the driveway.

Belle runs her hands down her sides and over her hips to smooth the black evening gown, which is slightly snug on her, but not so tight as to look bad. "Beggars can't be choosers," she had reminded herself twenty minutes earlier when she found it in her mother's closet. Her parents had come up here for New Year's Eve. A nearby country club to which her father belonged had planned a party, but Belle remembered her mother saying they did not go because of a blizzard. Fortunately, she had left the dress, with a pair of black pumps, here afterward.

A confident hand raps firmly on the front door. Belle turns off the kitchen light and walks through the candle-lit diningroom, affording the table a final inspection as she passes. Given that she did not plan on having any visitors --- much less doing any entertaining --- during her week alone in this house, and her last-minute decision to invite Dahlia for dinner, Belle has done very well in preparing for her guest.

After leaving the invitation with Dahlia's butler, Belle had detoured to the small town a few miles west of the summer house. It had no proper supermarket, but Belle knew with a little creativity, its modest grocery, with its superb butcher shop, would suffice.

As she began shopping, however, it occurred to her that she had no idea of Dahlia's tastes. For all Belle knew, Dahlia could be a vegetarian! Belle planned accordingly.

In the grocery, she selected two heads of lettuce, several avocados, a bag of carrots, and two big cucumbers. In a an open display freezer, she found a packaged loaf of uncooked french bread. She chose a bottle of olive oil with a sprig of sage in it for dipping the bread. From the same aisle she retrieved several varieties of salad dressing.

Frowning at the contents of her basket, she rolled it to the back of the store and found the butcher. She explained the situation to him.

"I have just the thing," he said, and handed her a clear plastic pack containing a rotisseried chicken. "We make these fresh every morning. Since it's almost closing time, you can have this one half-price. You can leave this in the fridge until you know whether or not your friend eats meat. Just five minutes in the microwave, and it'll taste like it just came off the rack."

Belle accepted the chicken as a convenient necessity, but as she turned away, she noticed a large, lean steak in the butcher's glass case. Belle felt a sudden craving for a dish which she had never much liked before.

"Say, it wouldn't be any trouble to grind that sirloin for me, would it?"

The butcher rubbed the back of his neck. "Gee, I'd like to, Miss, but like I said, it's almost time for me to go home, and I already cleaned the grinder."

"Please," Belle said, catching his eyes with hers, then licking her lips and smiling. "The guest I'm expecting has been such a generous hostess to me over the past few days, and I would really like to offer her something more than warmed-over chicken."

For a moment, the man just stared into Belle's eyes, as if transfixed by something even more primitive than the sexual instincts Belle had tried to play upon. He then visibly shuddered and responded somewhat dully, "OK, Miss, if that is what you want, I'll do it."

As the butcher ground the steak, Belle prowled the store, tracking down a jar of capers, a loaf of rye bread, a bottle of Worcestershire sauce, and everything else she would need to prepare Steak Tartare.

It was not until she had driven nearly all the way back to the lake house that the butcher's odd behavior struck her. Then, once she had arrived, she was again too busy preparing the salad, bread and Steak Tartare to give it any more thought.

Now, a little more than an hour later, Belle takes a deep breath and opens the front door. The sight of Dahlia in her low cut, scarlet blouse, and long, black leather skirt, leaves Belle speechless.

Dahlia also wears a friendly, but closed-lip smile. After a few silent seconds pass, she speaks. "Thank you so much for your kind invitation Belle. I hope I haven't arrived too late.... Um, shall I come in."

"Oh! Of course," Belle stammers, stepping back to admit her guest. Regaining her composure, she sweeps her right arm toward the dining room, its six candles --- the only illumination in the house --- highlighting a large china bowl heaped with salad, and another dish with steaming fresh bread peeking out from under a linen covering. Large wine glasses sparkle next to gilt-edged china plates.

"There is enough salad and bread to make a meal," Belle declares. "But if you enjoy meat, I have other things to offer that you might like better."

***

Apr-25-2001 4:01 PM Message 50 of 245

Subject: Hospitality [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 49 ]

~*Dahlia smiles, glancing at the elegant table settings with appreciation.*~

"Whatever you wish to have, Belle, will be fine with me. I am not a picky eater."

~*Sharing a dark chuckle with herself at the inside joke, Dahlia runs her fingers over the gilted edge of a wineglass. She sniffs the air delicately, knowing exactly what they are having for dinner. Steak Tartare and a rotissere chicken. Knowing that Belle would choose the steak, Dahlia smiles a secret almost wicked smile. She'd be craving the blood...the tangy, metallic taste of fresh meat. Belle had gone to great lengths to buy many foods to please her and Dahlia felt flattered.*~

"Belle, you have outdone yourself, my dear. Now I feel as though our meetings at my home have been rather informal. Why, I didn't even offer you dinner!"

***

Apr-17-2001 2:53 PM Message 51 of 245

Subject: Simple Pleasures [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 50 ]

"Belle, you have outdone yourself, my dear," Dahlia enthuses. "Now I feel as though our meetings at my home have been rather informal. Why, I didn't even offer you dinner!"

"Well, given that I showed up uninvited and in trouble more often than not, who could blame you?" Belle smiles. "Besides, I was usually there after dinnertime anyway. Speaking of which, it's almost nine now. Please, have a seat and I'll bring out an hors d'oeuvre I've prepared."

"I hope you have not gone to too much trouble on my account," Dahlia comments as she settles gracefully into one of the ornately carved and leather upholstered antique diningroom chairs.

"Oh, don't worry about that," Belle calls from the kitchen. "It's Steak Tartare, simplest thing in the world. I know it's not to everyone's taste, but I hope you'll like it. I was afraid that you might be a vegetarian!"

***

Apr-25-2001 12:55 PM Message 52 of 245

Subject: A good laugh [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 51 ]

~*Dahlia laughs heartily at Belle's last comment.*~

"A vegetarian! Far from it my dear..."

~*Watching Belle's face, she can see the pleasure that being a hostess has brought her. Smiling, she leans back in her chair, waiting for Belle to bring out the hors d'ouevres.*~

***

Apr-25-2001 4:38 PM Message 53 of 245

Subject: Almost a Taste [Belle].

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 52 ]

Belle enters the dark kitchen with a smile on her face. When she opens the refrigerator, however, she snarls and almost falls backward. The light blinds her and the odor of sliced onions nearly overwhelms her. She manages to retrieve the platter of ground sirloin, then slams the door.

"Is everything alright?" Dahlia calls from the other room. Belle thinks she hears a chuckle.

"Oh.... Fine," Belle claims, suspecting her voice betrays otherwise. "I just... just slipped on something." Her mouth begins watering as she peels the cellophane off the raw meat and the faint aroma of blood fills her nostrils. "What are you doing?!" Belle scolds herself in a whisper as her left hand halts just above the platter, two fingers poised to dip into the juicy mixture of Steak Tartare. "I must be hungrier than I thought."

Taking a moment to collect herself, Belle lifts the platter of meat with her left hand and a basket of sliced rye bread, wrapped in white linen, with her right. Carrying these into the dining room, Belle notices how Dahlia leans back casually in her chair, watching her as she approaches. Belle envies Dahlia's natural confidence, how she exudes self-assurance --- even authority --- in every setting and situation.

Belle sets the meat and bread on the table before Dahlia. "I hope you enjoy Steak Tartare," Belle stammers slightly. "I have only just acquired a taste for it myself. But, come to think of it, I believe I may be developing a taste for many things I never considered before."

***

Apr-26-2001 4:00 PM Message 54 of 245

Subject: A meal to remember [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 53 ]

~*Dahlia smiles up at Belle, sensing her anxiety.*~

"Well, let's not waste time and eat! This all looks delicious, Belle."

~*Dahlia reaches for a slice of rye bread, then pauses, looking uncertain as Belle takes a seat.*~

"Hmmm...do you, uh...give thanks?" she asks hesitantly.

***

Apr-26-2001 4:07 PM Message 55 of 245

Subject: Fall from Grace [Belle].

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 54 ]

Belle is just slipping into her seat when Dahlia asks about saying grace. Belle looks up with a start, and blushes slightly. "Well, my family did before every meal when I was growing up, at least at home. We went to church every Sunday, too. But, I have to admit, I haven't really done either since starting college."

Although reflected candlelight obscures her view through the glass doors of the large china cabinet against the far wall, Belle's eyes fix involuntarily upon the spot just past Dahlia's left shoulder where Belle knows her late grandmother's antique Bible and rosary are displayed. Belle shudders, then forces herself to look away. She meets Dahlia's eyes and feels that her guest is peering into her soul.

Belle realizes that Dahlia's question, ordinary enough in and of itself, has surprised her and left her unsettled. Belle finishes her response in low, dolorous tones. "So, of course, if you think it's appropriate for us to pray before eating, I understand."

***

Apr-30-2001 1:07 PM Message 57 of 245

Subject: Grace be damned [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 55 ]

~*Dahlia follows Belle's uncomfortable gaze towards the antique bible in the corner. She smiles. Of course she had noticed it and the rosaries the second she had entered the dining room. It made Belle uncomfortable, but only because her current behavior and feelings are making her question her faith and her worth in God's eyes...not because of any physical discomfort due to the presence of the objects. It is a myth that vampires are sensitive, even allergic, to christian objects. Vampires are a species, a race, a breed...scorned by the church they may be, but they are not repelled by a cross or a bible.*~

"It's quite alright, Belle. I myself am not a religious person either. I find it quite silly to place your life in the hands of an invisible....and in my opinion, imaginary...being."

~*Dahlia watches Belle intently, her gaze locked on the young girl's eyes. Her mind is racing.*~

'It is decision time, Dahlia. Will you turn the girl, or not? You cannot keep sipping from her. She will die a slow painful death and become a half living creature. You know this, you learned that lesson when you were but a Fledgling. Think, Dahlia...think!'

***

May-25-2001 9:22 AM Message 58 of 245

Subject: The Burn [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 57 ]

Belle sighs. She finds odd solace in Dahlia's profession of atheism. It reminds her of things Belle's best friend, Laura, has often said. Belle came to college a devout Catholic, but soon thereafter began to question her faith. It did not help that Laura --- a devoted and vocal Feminist --- had been urging her to reject her religion for years.

Belle blinks and her thoughts return to the present. She finds Dahlia still watching her, apparently lost in thought as well.

"Would you care for some wine?" Belle asks.

"Please," Dahlia's smile returns.

Belle has prepared to offer her guest the appropriate wine, depending on her choice of entrees. Had they limited themselves to salad and bread, Belle has a bottle of White Riesling waiting in the refrigerator. For the steak tartare, however, she has retrieved from the cellar an Australian Cabernet Sauvignon.

Belle stands, turns, and takes the Cabernet Sauvignon from the sideboard behind her. After some effort with the corkscrew, she opens it, pours a little in her own glass and tastes it to ensure its quality. She then leans forward and, supported by her left hand, reaches across the table, between two candles, for Dahlia's glass. As she retrieves the goblet, the base of its stem bumps the top of one of the the candlesticks, knocking the candle over toward Belle.

Breath hisses between Belle's clenching teeth as hot wax splatters across the back of her left hand. A wave of burning ecstacy surges up her arm and flows through her entire body. Belle's eyes close and she moans audibly as this tide of pleasure ebbs, settling into an empty pool of yearning deep within her.

Leaving the broken and extinguished candle where it lies, Belle settles unsteadily into her chair, Dahlia's goblet still clutched in her trembling right hand. "Pardon me," Belle manages to gasp between fast, ragged breaths. "That was... That was..."

She stops herself before confessing the revealing truth. Belle's eyes blink open and her gaze moves from the scarlet wax scab solidifying on her ivory skin, up to find Dahlia watching her intently with an enigmatic grin. Belle feels the blush growing in her cheeks, and tries to explain it all with convenient lies. "I'm such a klutz. Um... That wax was really hot!"

***

May-2-2001 2:09 PM Message 59 of 245

Subject: Fire and Ice [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 58 ]

~*Watching Belle reach for her wine glass, Dahlia sucks in a breath. Belle's ivory white hand and wrist prominently display throbbing, warm, delicious veins. A deep, fernal growl rises in her throat and she supresses it before it escapes. She now had her answer. Belle would be a Kindred. She could not resist the urge to hold her in her arms and drink the thick, sweet life's blood that would flow hotly into her mouth. Her breath coming in short gasps, she looks up just as Belle knocks over the candlestick and hot wax goes spilling onto her perfect porcelain skin.*~

~*Dahlia sits up swiftly, whipping the candle in midair in a movement too fast for Belle to see. The candle breaks and lands far away from Belle before she can even react to the pain. But to Dahlia's surpise, she doesn't yelp in pain, but rather moans in ecstacy. This is not good for Dahlia's already aroused state. Watching Belle's eyes close as waves of pleasure wash over her awakens the beast inside of her, and all of a sudden she knows that if she does not eat the Steak Tartare and taste blood soon, she will snap.*~

~*Belle's hightened senses caused the reaction to the wax. Her skin is incredibly sensitive and highly responsive to any stimuli. Listening as Belle tries to explain away her reaction, Dahlia pretends that she believes the almost convincing lie.*~

"That must have hurt like Hell. Here, let's get some ice on your hand."

~*Taking Belle's good hand, she gently helps her out of her seat and leads her into the kitchen. Grabbing a dishtowel, she turns the cold water faucet on and lets it soak the towel, and then moves to the freezer. Pulling out two large ice cubes, she places them in the towel and hands it to Belle.*~

"Scrape away the wax and then hold this to your hand. It should feel better within a few minutes."

~*Dahlia smiles slightly, knowing the burn would heal almost automatically with her saliva in Belle's system. She sits back and watches, and waits.*~

***

May-25-2001 9:23 AM Message 60 of 245

Subject: Thrill [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 59 ]

Belle does as Dahlia commands. She peels the hardening red wax off the back of her left hand, to reveal an irregular pink patch of irritated skin, which itches when touched by the cool air. Belle presses the ice-pack to the wound and the itch turns into a tingle that extends up the back of her arm.

"Mmmmmmm...." Belle's eyes half-close, and she says dreamily, "Yes, that's fine."

But the terrycloth towel feels like sandpaper against the burn. Belle sets it on the counter, picks up one of the dripping ice cubes, and presses it against the back of her hand. The touch of its smooth, wet, freezing surface against her sensitized skin is ecstacy itself. She shivers and develops goosebumps as delicate pleasure spreads across her body like feathery frost covering a windowpane. The cold thrill moves down Belle's spine, and her nipples harden against the snug fabric of her black dress. She presses her legs together as the muscles of her thighs and hips tense in reaction to the sensations.

"Yes... Yes... You're right... Dahlia... Yes...." Belle manages only a word or two with each of her quick, ragged breaths. "You're right... Dahlia... The ice... feels... wonderful... Yes... So refreshing... Yes...."

Dahlia notices that Belle is no longer holding the melting cube to the burn, but is instead rubbing it around her palm and up and down the sensitive skin beneath her lower arm. Belle leans back against the kitchen counter, her eyes now fully closed, and her voice a throaty whisper.

"Mmmmmmm... Wonderful... Yes...."

***

May-2-2001 2:10 PM Message 62 of 245

Subject: A lady amused [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 60 ]

~*Dahlia's smile deepened to a wickedly delighted grin. Her fangs showed slightly, but since Belle's eyes were closed it didn't matter. Belle's reaction to the ice amused her to no end, and reminded her quite strongly of her ex-lover Natasha. She would delight in the simplest pleasures, always willing and eager to please...and please she did, Dahlia thought with a throaty chuckle. Reaching out, she tucked a stray strand of hair behind Belle's ear. Belle opened her clouded eyes and stared hazily at Dahlia, a look of sensual contentment on her face.*~

"Was it as good for you as it was for me?" Dahlia asks.

***

Oct-26-2001 4:06 PM Message 63 of 245

Subject: Unabashed [Belle].

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 62 ]

The gentle stroke of a soft finger behind her left ear sends a final surge of pleasure down Belle's spine to explode silently between her legs. Belle draws a deep breath and sighs. She slowly opens her eyes to find Dahlia gazing upon her, wearing an amused grin.

"Was it as good for you as it was for me?" Dahlia chuckles lightheartedly.

The cliche catches Belle off-guard and she breaks into unsteady laughter. Belle realizes Dahlia must know what has happened. Belle's musk fills her own nostrils as she brings her breathing under control.

"I am so sorry," Belle whispers as she turns away and lets the remaining sliver of ice slip from her palm into the sink. "Nothing like that's ever happened to me before."

With her back to Dahlia, Belle keeps expecting to feel shame, but it never comes. Belle views Dahlia as the most sophisticated and cosmopolitan woman she has ever met. She somehow knows Dahlia has taken no offense from her unusual behavior.

Nonetheless, when Belle turns to again face her guest, the intensity of Dahlia's stare causes Belle to involuntarily step back. Still trying to explain herself, Belle sputters, "I have felt so odd ever since I came up here this week. Maybe it's getting completely away from school, my family, my boyfriend and all. I just haven't been myself."

***

May-3-2001 4:40 PM Message 64 of 245

Subject: Fonder? [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 63 ]

~*Dahlia closes her eyes slightly, the scent of Belle's musk filling her nostrils. Opening her eyes, they are a dark grey, like a thundercloud. She smiles at Belle and nods.*~

"Yes I'm sure that's what it is. They say distance makes the heart grow fonder. I assume that applies to other organs as well."

~*Chuckling slightly, Dahlia holds out her hand to lead Belle back to the dining room.*~

"You must be hungry after all that excitement...Shall we?"

***

Jun-29-2001 1:37 PM Message 65 of 245

Subject: Touching [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 64 ]

Belle takes Dahlia's proffered hand --- giving no thought to any implication of the gesture --- and lets herself be led back into the dining room.

"You must be hungry after all that excitement," Dahlia suggests with a mischievous chuckle. "Shall we?"

"Certainly, if you like." Belle considers the meal laid out on the table. "Although, I'm more thirsty than anything else. Come to think of it, I haven't had much appetite for a couple days now. Another benefit of solitude, I suppose. There's no one around to remind you of mealtime."

With her free hand, Belle lifts the bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and fills Dahlia's goblet. She then tops off her own.

"Perhaps a toast is in order, " Dahlia suggests.

"Great idea," Belle agrees. She sets down the wine bottle, hands Dahlia her glass, then takes her own. Her other hand still held by Dahlia, Belle finds a confidence of expression usually foreign to her. She raises her goblet. "Me first... To you, Dahlia. You, who in just a few short days has shown herself to be a kind, patient, understanding and dear friend."

All the same, Belle feels herself blush when Dahlia squeezes her hand in response. Belle sips her wine, then says softly, "It's your turn to make a toast."

***

May-4-2001 11:47 AM Message 66 of 245

Subject: That Night: Arrival [Guillaume].

From: Anborn

Reply to: Anborn [ Message 61 ]

Guillaume FitzHenry raps on the door with the ornately carved gold head of his walking stick. He smiles in recognition at the gaunt figure who opens the door. The butler does not smile, although his eyes widen perceptibly.

"Yes, Briant, it is I," Guillaume chuckles. "It has been a long time."

"Indeed, Sir. Centuries." He steps back to clear the doorway. "Lady Dahlia is away this evening, but she would expect me to invite you inside. She welcomes all the Kindred here."

Guillaume enters, sets his walking stick in the umbrella stand and drops his valise upon the tiled floor. Briant pulls Guillaume's long black overcoat from his shoulders to reveal an immaculately tailored, dark three-piece suit underneath.

"Is anyone else here?"

"No, Sir," Briant replies as he hangs the coat in the foyer closet. "We had quite a few visitors earlier this week, but they all drifted away when.... They all ventured off on other pursuits."

"When do you expect your Mistress to return?"

"By morning, of course, but I do not know how late Lady Dahlia plans to be out. The parlor is just through that door. I have a fire going. If you allow me a moment, I shall take your bag to a guestroom and then bring you some wyne."

"Thank you. That will be fine." Guillaume enters the large, tastefully decorated parlor and takes one of the chairs facing the fire. The scents he perceives confirm that several Kindred have visited recently... and something more. He smiles at the fresh --- no more than one day old --- sweet aroma of a living, breathing, human, female. Guillaume believes he now understands why Lady Dahlia has lost interest in entertaining guests.

***

Oct-26-2001 2:48 PM Message 67 of 245

Subject: Predators After Dark [Laura]

From: Laura_Junius

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 63 ]

Laura Anne von Hoeffner called it a night a little before eleven-thirty, quite early for a college student on spring break in Daytona Beach. But several straight days of surf, sand and sun --- each followed by a long night of dancing, drinking and dallying --- had taken their toll. The woman with whom she shared her room had run into a guy she had dated in high school, spent an hour becoming reacquainted, and then went with him back to his hotel. Laura did not expect to see her until morning at the earliest. Then, after what had happened with Brad, Laura herself did not want to stay at the party any longer either.

Back in her own room, Laura kicked off her sandals, stripped off her tee-shirt, and stepped out of her jeans. She removed the bikini that had served as underwear and set it on the dresser. She pulled a pair of panties and an oversized camisole from her suitcase and donned them as pajamas.

She opened the sliding glass door onto the balcony before climbing into bed. She then laid there considering what to do about the situation with Brad, who was supposedly going steady with Laura's best friend, Belle. Laura still couldn't believe Brad had made such an obvious pass at her. She let him know in no uncertain terms what she thought of the idea. Now she had to decide what, if anything, to tell Belle when she saw her back on campus next week.

Well, she had several days to think about it. Brad was pretty drunk. If he apologized tomorrow and explained it well enough, then maybe she would not have to say anything to Belle about it. She decided to try to put it out of her mind and enjoy this rare opportunity for solitude. Soon, the rhythmic pounding of the surf and gentle strains of Reggae drifting up from the beach had lulled her to sleep.

Laura awoke an hour later, still gasping from the nightmare. She lay in the darkness trying to recall the specifics, but could only remember that it involved an urgent need to rescue Belle. Just one disturbing detail remained from the very end of the dream, it was Belle walking willingly toward the danger she confronted, ignoring Laura's pleas to stop. A final nightmare image of Belle lingered from the moment Laura woke up.

Laura wrongly assumed that the dream was her own subconscious reaction to Brad's misbehavior.

***

May-4-2001 10:47 PM Message 68 of 245

Subject: A toast. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 65 ]

~*Dahlia smiles, raising her glass to her lips and taking a sip of the robust wine in tribute to Belle's toast. After lowering her glass, she looks at Belle with a dangerous sparkle in her eyes. Her lips curve up into a wicked smirk.*~

"To Belle," she starts huskily. "My rapidly aquired friend who is going through so many changes."

~*Dahlia chuckles slightly and raises her glass into the air.*~

***

May-5-2001 10:05 AM Message 69 of 245

Subject: Venting [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 68 ]

"To Belle," Dahlia toasts, raising her glass. "My rapidly acquired friend who is going through so many changes."

Belle touches the lip of her goblet to Dahlia's, and the fine crystal rings like delicate chimes.

"Is it really that obvious?" Belle asks after sipping her wine. "I suppose it must be. I have felt so different since coming up here alone this week. I think it started before we met, but you have reminded me that there is a whole world out there that I'll never experience in the sheltered environment of home, or even college. I figured by the time I was done with the paper I came here to write, I'd be itching to get back to campus. But my life at school is so ordinary, so predictable. I'll get my degree, marry some guy with an M.B.A., have our two-point-three children, and end up like my Mom, whose entire social life is entertaining Dad's business associates, or pretending to play Bridge while drinking Brandy Manhattans with the other women at the country club. Quite frankly, the thought right now of returning to that world, or even of seeing my vapid friends --- most of whom spent this week getting blitzed in Daytona and will consider that the highlight of their year --- makes me want to scream."

She notes the intensity in Dahlia's eyes as she takes in every word. Immediately Belle regrets her criticism of her parents and friends. She truly loves her family, and at least one of her friends --- Laura --- truly has her own mind and attitude toward life. Belle takes another drink of her wine.

"I'm sorry," she continues. "I shouldn't burden you with all that. It's not so bad as I make it sound. It's just that I know if I tried to follow some sort of bohemian lifestyle --- you know, become an artist or a writer or something --- my parents would be devastated. It's the life I was born to. What can I do but go back and make the best of it?"

***

May-5-2001 12:17 PM Message 70 of 245

Subject: Concerned. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 69 ]

~*Watching Belle's face and eyes closely as she speaks, Dahlia notices the resignition in both. It's as though Belle has convinced herself that she can do nothing but please her parents and resign herself to a lifestyle she loathes. Reaching out a hand after Belle is finished, she places it on her shoulder.*~

"Don't worry, I like hearing about you and how you feel. But do you honestly think that you have to live the lifestyle chosen for you? Your parents wishes aren't what you should build your future around. What would you like to do? What excites you?"

***

May-7-2001 9:13 AM Message 71 of 245

Subject: Ranting [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 70 ]

"What would you like to do?" Dahlia asks in suggesting Belle should look for interests beyond those defined by her social position and upbringing. "What excites you?"

"I don't know. That's just the problem." Belle chuckles coldly. "Before college, my experiences were defined by my parents' social circle, my Catholic schools and the country club. Now, classes and the sorority take all my time. You know, you read about things, see things in movies... but how much of that is real? I've never met anyone who has actually lived the adventuresome, bohemian life glamorized in the movies. I'm sure there are people like that out there, but how would I ever get to know one well enough to know if that was a life for me? What? Should I shave my head, move to Greenwich Village, and see what happens?"

Belle actually swigs her wine, then sighs, bringing her frustration under control. "That's why I am so glad to have met you. I don't mean that I think you're some kind of libertine, but you are obviously sophisticated, cosmopolitan and experienced... more than I can ever hope to be. My friend Laura calls all the other girls in the sorority 'white bread and mayonnaise.' It's nice to get a taste of something spicier, even if vicariously and for only a week."

The flush from her rant has drained from Belle's cheeks. She sips her wine, then again sighs and concludes softly. "You ask what excites me. How can I know? But I know what doesn't excite me: my family, school, not even my boyfriend. They all bore me to tears."

***

May-7-2001 3:47 PM Message 72 of 245

Subject: A suggestion. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 71 ]

~*Dahlia reaches for a piece of rye bread, then spreads some of the steak tartare mixture on it, taking a nibble and finding it delicious. Belle had outdone herself to impress her. Listening intently to Belle's little rant, she tilts her head to the side and smiles when she's finished.*~

"Actually you'd be quite suprised, Belle. I've traveled extensively....actually extensively is putting it mildly. I've been all over the world. I've met more than my fair share of people and sampled the finest wines, food, silks, glass, silver, everything that each country has to offer. You say everything about your life bores you...then change your lifestyle. Travel! Do something that thrills you to the core. If you don't, you'll waste away. I could help you, you know."

~*Dahlia says the last on a soft, hypnotic tone...almost belaying her hidden agenda.*~

***

May-8-2001 7:46 AM Message 73 of 245

Subject: Disappointment [Guillaume].

From: Anborn

Reply to: Anborn [ Message 66 ]

"Thank you, Briant," Guillaume FitzHenry says softly as he accepts the large goblet of wyne. He simply cradles it in his right hand as if immediately forgotten, his attention instead focuses on the roaring blaze in the ornately carved stone fireplace.

"Is there anything else I can get you, Sir?" The butler asks.

Guillaume does not move for a moment. When he finally glances up, he chuckles sadly. "Some company, perhaps. I mean, see here, I leave my self-imposed exile for the first time since the French Reign of Terror --- those were the days, weren't they Briant? --- and after two centuries away I finally attend the opening of a new Gathering Place and find it empty!"

Briant sniffs at the insult to the household he so loyally tends. He speaks slowly and deliberately in reply. "As I explained, Sir, tonight is unusual. The Lady Dahlia has stepped out for the evening, and her recent guests each happen to be off, attending to their own affairs. I am sure m`Lady will be back before dawn to greet you, and, if past experience is any guide, this manor will soon again be filled with Kindred."

"Yes, yes, yes, I'm sure. I am quite aware of your Mistress' legendary hospitality." Guillaume sighs. "Will you at least drink with me, Briant? I know you're not one for conversation, but even a servant's company would suit me tonight. I have no need to sit here alone and contemplate the state of the world. I have brooded over that enough in my long solitude."

***

May-8-2001 4:44 PM Message 74 of 245

Subject: Lead Me Not into Temptation [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 72 ]

"I could help you, you know," Dahlia suggests in response to Belle's professed desire to find a more adventuresome life. Despite the soft, sweet tone of the offer --- and Dahlia's kind generosity over the past several days --- the adrenalin that suddenly surges through Belle is not entirely from joyful excitement. A flicker of fear burns in Belle's breast. She thinks she sees, just for an instant, a predatory gaze deep in Dahlia's dilated pupils.

She can imagine a dozen different forms Dahlia's proffered "help" might take. Belle would feel morally bound to reject most of them, no matter how tempting they might be to her right now. Nonetheless, she wants to know what Dahlia will offer her. It is so simple to ask.

"Oh? How could you help me?"

***

May-8-2001 2:20 PM Message 75 of 245

Subject: Communications Breakdown [Laura]

From: Laura_Junius

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 72 ]

"Hi, Mrs. Phillips. This is Laura von Hoeffner."

"Oh. Hello, Laura," the woman's voice lilted in the telephone receiver. "How is Florida? Nothing's wrong, is it, Dear?"

"No, no, everything's fine," Laura reported. "I was just worried about... I was worried that Belle might be feeling disappointed that she didn't come down with us for Spring Break this year. Have you heard from her at all?"

"No, I haven't, but that's not really surprising. We have no phone at the lake house, you know. That's part of its charm. But I'm sure she's fine, otherwise she would have called. She has her cell phone for emergencies."

"Sure, of course. Well, if she calls, let her know we miss her down here. She can call me if she wants." Laura gave Belle's mother the phone number for her hotel room, then exchanged the obligatory small talk and pleasantries before hanging up.

She dialed Belle's cellular number and frowned when she got the same message she had heard when she had first tried earlier that morning: "We're sorry. The subscriber you have dialed is either not answering, or is beyond the service area. Please try your call again later."

Laura slammed down the receiver and shook her head. She knew she was being silly. It had been only a dream. But no matter how often she told herself that, Laura could not shake an overwhelming foreboding that Belle was in danger.

***

May-9-2001 4:38 PM Message 76 of 245

Subject: To the rescue [Vampiress Dahlia].

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 74 ]

~*Dahlia smiles at Belle, taking another bite of the food. She knows that if the dinner did not get underway soon, she'd have to be rude and leave without having finished. It was only about five hours until dawn and she would have to be home by then in order to "sleep".*~

"Well, you've been to my home...but what you don't know is I usually have very many guests. Perhaps you could meet them. They're very interesting and come from all over the world."

***

May-9-2001 4:29 PM Message 77 of 245

Subject: Bathos [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 76 ]

Belle had not expected anything so simple as an invitation to a party.

In the scant seconds it took Dahlia to offer to "help" Belle find a more adventuresome life, and for Belle to inquire into the nature of such assistance, Belle had imagined a number of different forms such "help" might take.

She had thought Dahlia might offer her money, to allow Belle to break free of her parents' most tangible means of control over her. Dahlia enjoys obvious wealth. Belle would have refused such charity, no matter how tempting she now finds the idea cutting loose from her family's heavy purse-strings.

Then, never able to quite keep her guest's professed bisexuality out of her mind, Belle had wondered if Dahlia might offer to take Belle on as some sort of "companion" and show her more of the world. A week ago, the very idea of such a relationship would have repulsed Belle. During the past couple nights, however, thoughts of Dahlia had crept into Belle's mind at the oddest times, and Belle has to admit to herself that she now understands that one woman can find another sexually attractive. Nonetheless, every moment of Belle's Catholic upbringing convinces her that she could never desire such a relationship, so Belle is relieved that Dahlia has not offered. Belle would have refused. Belle blushes, however, as she realizes that she feels a bit disappointed, even insulted, that Dahlia apparently does not find her attractive in that way.

No. Dahlia's suggested assistance was neither a grandiose offer of financial support, nor a scandalous proposition of liaison. Rather, she will give Belle the opportunity to meet others as worldly as Dahlia herself. Still uncertain what she actually expected, Belle finds this idea disappointingly mundane.

Still, it could prove interesting, and she certainly does not want to insult Dahlia by acting unappreciative. Belle sips her wine and responds.

"I would love to meet your friends. But I have to return to school in a few days. Are you expecting anyone before Saturday? Things are usually pretty dead around here this time of year."

***

May-16-2001 10:11 AM Message 79 of 245

Subject: Songs from the Wood

From: Iethro_Tullius

Reply to: Anborn [ Message 73 ]

Briant opened the door and recognized the tall, thin being standing at the threshold.

"Greetings, Master Ian," the butler said flatly. "Please do come in."

The visitor stepped into the dim foyer, candlelight reflected warmly off the golden lacquer of the mandolin tucked under his right arm. He tipped his green felt cap in greeting, momentarily uncovering his balding pate. His brown hair curled down to his shoulders, past large, ever-so-slightly pointed ears. He scratched at his long, full beard.

"So these are Dahlia's new digs, eh Briant?" Ian said with a smile. "I trust there's room for me in the parlor." He winked.

"Yes sir. Of course." Briant knew better than to ask to take haversack slung over the new guest's shoulder, a long wooden flute protruding from under its flap.

Ian entered the large chamber and saw only one occupant, a well dressed man staring sulkingly into the fire, which cast long, deep shadows around room. Ian slipped silently along the back wall and found an appropriate stool to slide into a far corner. He set his sack carefully on the floor and gave the mandolin a single strum, confirming it remained in tune.

Then he began to play, singing with a full, but earthy voice.

~~~

Have you seen Jack-In-The-Green?

With his long tail hanging down.

He quietly sits under every tree ---

in the folds of his velvet gown.

He drinks from the empty acorn cup

the dew that dawn sweetly bestows.

And taps his cane upon the ground ---

signals the snowdrops it's time to grow.

It's no fun being Jack-In-The-Green ---

no place to dance, no time for song.

He wears the colours of the summer soldier ---

carries the green flag all the winter long.

Jack, do you never sleep ---

does the green still run deep in your heart?

Or will these changing times,

motorways, powerlines,

keep us apart?

Well, I don't think so ---

I saw some grass growing through the pavements today.

The rowan, the oak and the holly tree

are the charges left for you to groom.

Each blade of grass whispers Jack-In-The-Green.

Oh Jack, please help me through my winter's night.

And we are the berries on the holly tree.

Oh, the mistlethrush is coming.

Jack, put out the light.

~~~

***

May-10-2001 11:55 AM Message 80 of 245

Subject: Entrancement [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 78 ]

Ultimately, it is her eyes, only her eyes.

But first, Belle notices the suggestive nature of Dahlia's movements, how she crosses her legs to allow the long slit of her skirt to fall open to reveal the smooth ivory flesh of her trim, shapely thigh. The sudden flash of bare skin -- framed at the knee by the top of Dahlia's black leather boot, and on either side by her black leather skirt -- sends a thrill down Belle's spine, without consideration for gender.

Realizing she is staring at Dahlia's exposed leg, Belle looks up, blushing, but then feels a surge of adrenalin when she perceives Dahlia's predatory smile. Dahlia is again staring at her, as she has repeatedly done all evening. Belle meets Dahlia's gaze in order to tell her, in no uncertain terms, that she doesn't... To tell her she will not... To tell her... To tell, tell Dahlia... ...something.

As Belle's eyes fix upon Dahlia's, the breath Belle had drawn to speak escapes in a ragged sigh. She cannot remember what she wanted to say to Dahlia. Belle settles into Dahlia's gaze like a warm pool of healing waters. Belle's breathing becomes deep, slow and regular.

"Tell me darling," Dahlia begins in the gentlest, steadiest and most melodic voice Belle has ever heard. When Dahlia calls her "darling," Belle again realizes that she wants to tell Dahlia something regarding her feelings, her beliefs... but again she just cannot remember what. Dahlia's voice is the only voice in the world. That last word reverberates though Belle, making her believe that she is "darling" to none but Dahlia, dear to no one else, alone in the world but for Dahlia. Belle aches to hear Dahlia speak further, although only an instant passes before Dahlia intones, "Did you have something more interesting in mind than a party?"

Belle wonders if that is what she wanted to tell Dahlia. Belle's mind draws a blank, and she casts about for something to fill the void. What did she want to tell Dahlia? She must have something to say to Dahlia, who had shown her such kindness and generosity, who had assisted her when her car broke down, who had lent her clothes on a rain-soaked night, who had let Belle sleep in her house. Now she has inquired what Belle has in mind. Belle decides that must be what she wanted to tell Dahlia all along. When Belle finally speaks, her flat tone and steady stare belie the intensity of her feelings.

"Yes Dahlia, you have been done so much for me these past few days," Belle begins with complete sincerity. Then she concludes with complete innocence. "The only thing I now have in mind is whether there is anything I might be able to do for you, to show my appreciation."

***

May-10-2001 10:35 PM Message 81 of 245

Subject: Breaking the spell. [Vampiress Dahlia]

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 80 ]

~*Dahlia slowly pulls her gaze back under a careful hold, knowing it could damage Belle's brain if used to it's full extent for too long a period of time. A slight stab of guilt pangs her and she looks away. She knew that what she had done was wrong. Those weren't Belle's words coming out of her mouth or her own thoughts in her head. But the brief guilt-trip soon diminished itself for Dahlia knew that Belle was strong of heart and mind and that even her powers couldn't completely control the girl. No, on some deep dark level, Belle wanted everything that Dahlia had to offer.*~

~*Looking back at Belle with a warm smile on her face, Dahlia waves a hand at the table.*~

"Right now what you can do for me is eat up. You need to keep your strength out here in the middle of nowhere. Then, tomorrow I want you to come to my home. I have friends there waiting for me."

~*Dahlia sniffs the air again just to make certain that her earlier suspicious were correct. Ah yes...the scent of Kindred was in the air, even from miles away. She did not want Belle returning tonight. No, she'd have to warn the others first that she was not an offering or welcoming gift,that she was off limits...at least to them.*~

***

May-11-2001 10:56 AM Message 82 of 245

Subject: Perplexed [Belle]

From: cyberian_belle

Reply to: Vampiress_Dahlia [ Message 81 ]

Belle blinks, and a shudder arouses her from her stupor. She glances around the room a moment, unsure what had just happened. Belle blushes, wondering why she keeps losing control of her feelings this evening.

Dahlia waves her hand over the richly set table and suggests they continue with dinner. Still somewhat befuddled, Belle mumbles her assent, and the meal passes relatively quietly in subdued small talk. Belle does most of the speaking, answering automatically Dahlia's inquiries about her family and school.

Neither woman shows much appetite. While they eat most of the steak tartare -- piling it thickly on thin slices of rye beard -- their salads and accompanying baguettes go untouched. As they finish, Belle pours the last of the Cabernet Sauvignon into Dahlia's glass.

"I kind of decided at the last minute to invite you for dinner," Belle explains apologetically. "I rushed through my shopping. I don't think I have anything sweet to offer you for dessert."

***

May-12-2001 12:15 AM Message 83 of 245

Subject: A long night.

From: Vampiress_Dahlia

Reply to: cyberian_belle [ Message 82 ]

~*Dahlia feels Belle pull away from her, watched her detatched gaze and listens to her non-committing answers. She smiles slightly at her mention of dessert.*~

"That's fine Belle, I've had quite enough. In fact, I'm getting rather tired and should probably be heading home. I'll see you tomorrow?"

~*Belle nods and Dahlia stands and Belle does the same. She walks over to Belle and kisses her cheek.*~

"Goodnight. Sweet dreams..."

~*Belle shows her out and shuts the door after saying a few more pleasantries. Dahlia sniffs the air and closes her eyes on a sigh of pleasure. The vampires are at the Kiss, waiting for her. Walking over to her car, she steps into the spacious backseat and her chaufer wisks her home. Once stopped on the highway outside of the woods that houses her beloved Kiss, her chaufer hops out and opens her door. Dahlia steps out and lets the wind carry her hair out into it's grasp to be tangled. Smiling, she thanks her chaufer and takes the short walk back to the Kiss.*~

~*Stepping inside, Briant is practically glowing with pleasure. He takes her coat and nods his head towards the parlor.*~

"You have guests, M'lady." he says.

"Briant, dear, did you think I did not know?"

~*Dahlia taps her nose and gives a devilish grin, then walks into the parlor, gazing around at it's two occupants.*~

***