Closing In

Author: Vampiress Narcissa

Date: 07-22-04 15:11

There she stood as Sutter and Samantha moved past her, his steely gaze catching hers directly in a strange and well mannered gaze. She blinked and looked down as Samantha, on his side, looked back to her as well offering a gentle parting of her own soft lips. She cleared her throat and looked back up, her face framed by the soft fires that lit the fireplace and several candles in the parlor. Finally, her steps propelled her forward, moving into the conversation as a name unheard to her was mentioned not only by Belle, but by Sutter as well. She wondered what this woman had done, or was doing to garner such attention from the coven. She merely slipped in behind Violet and whispered softly to her as the conversation now shifted away from formal greetings.

"Welcome back Violet."

She saw Violet turn, and with a smile forming on both of their lips, warm words spilled from her mouth. Quite a change from the usual street speak that she was known for spewing out when a thought popped into her mind.

"Of all the people that I have missed, it is quite possible you are the one I missed the most."

Of course, at this very moment she missed her sire the most, the deepest, and the most sorrowfully, and desperately wanted him by her side, but she would have to make due until he could come to America. She would never ask him to abandon his business at home just to cure her lonliness, but the thought had crossed her mind to give him a call. Perhaps she would ring him the next night after a good days sleep and let him know she had arrived safely.

"Tell me where you have been and what you've been doing over the past five years."

What does all this mean?

Author: Domynique Wu Chin Isadore

Date: 07-22-04 16:52

'What the hell have I stepped into?'

I asked myself. I watch as the tormented Egyptian beauty moves about the room in a strange and damnably sick Danse Macabre.

I can sense the darkness within her and for the first time wonder what can be done for her.

Yvain clutches my arm with surprising strength. I have so much I need to ruminate over, but this isn't the time. I'm striving to get myself to relax and do something when

the one called Varsuviya, lunges toward Yvain.

If hatred could have had a name and a face, then The Countess Varsuviya would have been the poster-child for it.

She lunges and catches Yvain by the throat in a death grip that would have killed a mortal.

I had known Countess de Chrys for not more than six hours, but in that short time I realized that she was indeed a force to be reckoned with. Underneath that sweet exterior lurked a fighter.

Yvain seemed to transform into someone or thing of pure animalistic power. I knew that those that were Kindred were superhuman in a lot of respects but this was my first lesson in those who were a shade different.

Yvain wrapped her slender hands around the Countess' neck and threw her too violently against the wall on the far side of the room. I watched as the poor woman hit the wall with a resounding splat that seemed to course to the very foundation of this manor! Yes sir, it was that hard!

A mortal's body would have exploded at such an impact!

Yvain stood for a moment and reguarded the slumped Countess with something I could not distinguish before turning her attention to Lady Amneris who had fallen upon the floor in a dead faint.

Varsuviya rushed toward her and so did I.

Varsuviya glanced at me with a look of wonderment, but her attention was consumed by Lady Amneris. I stared down at the woman who had minutes ago taken on the appearance of a Hell-bent demon and now she lay there seemingly at peace, her scarlet blood trickling from a small cut at the corner of her lips.

She was indeed beautiful as Yvain told me. I didn't understand what my entire purpose was but I did know that this woman was tormented and she needed help. From what Yvain told me, I was to be the one that would help rescue her in a sense. I didn't understand it and I didn't have time to do it. Looking down at her made my heart swell with a feeling I couldn't put a name too at this time.

Within minutes I felt Yvain's presence near us. I looked up into her eyes and saw a knowing glance.

She prepared to speak.

Ultimatumn!

Author: Countess Yvain de Chrys

Date: 07-22-04 17:16

Domynique and I share a glance.

He may not realize what that feeling is that has made his heart swell, but I do, I think with a small smile.

I am jolted out of my reverie, I cannot afford to have smiles and good thoughts at this time.

I stare down at Amneris's still form. I knew the poor dear was sick but I didn't know too what extent.

Domynique moves over her and tests for her pulse and a heart beat.

"She's alive Yvain." He says, his baritonial voice montone.

I glance at him briefly and back to Amneris, never looking in Varsuviya's direction. I can feel the woman's eyes upon me.

"Domynique, I want you to place Amneris upon her bed and I'll call for Briant to bring some wine and fresh water as well as warm water. Get her on the bed Domynique and once you've finished it please too it that a bath is prepared." He immediately moves to gently pick Amneris off the ground.

Varsuviya quickly protests, throwing her arm over Amneris. I turn a purely cold glare toward her and in a measured voice of deadly calm; speak.

"He is doing what needs to be done Varsuviya. I need to speak with you now. Be so kind as to accompany me to my room for a moment." The words, though calmly spoken; carry the chill of an artic wind.

Varsuviya's face whitens as she follows me.

We both walk toward the double doors and into the corridor. Several of the guests inquire as to the problem.

"Nothing to be concerned about. The Princess is just very exhausted and needs her rest. Everything is fine." I shoo them all away and Varsuviya and I make our way down the hall to my suite of rooms.

Once inside the door I whirl around and face her!

"Don't you ever put your hands upon me the way you did, or God help me I will see to it that you meet your final death quickly!" I spit out venomously.

She steps back a bit and I continue, facing the large picture window and gazing out.

"Amneris is sick! Point blank and there is no hedging around the bush. She is sick and for one that is considered damned, her immortal soul could be in peril! This is not the time for any hair-brained emotions from you."

Varsuviya's face reddened and she spat out. "I love her, Yvain! For Christs sake! I love her and I need to be there with her, not here pacing around your fucking room listening to this crap!"

I stared at her and continued. "No my darling Viya, you will do exactly what I say! Amneris is sick and her condition depends upon complete rest and the absence of distractions or hinderances!"

I turned from the window and fixed my eyes upon her with intensity.

"You my dear Viya are a hinderance to her at this moment and I want you to stay away from her for the time being!"

You could have heard a pin drop in the silence that stretched out. Varsuviya's face went completly white.

Anger Within, and My New Consort

Author: Vladira

Date: 07-22-04 18:03

I could sense Yvain's anger all of the sudden, as JeanClaude and I became consorts. I felt his kisses all over me, and I welcomed them. His hands caressing every inch of my being. I cried out as we consumated our love for each other. I had not felt such pleasures from a man, mortal or kindred, in centuries. Then, I gasped and pushed JeanClaude off of me.

"Vladira? What is it?" He asked.

I sat up and rushed over to pick up my robe. "My mother is angered about something." I said.

He looked puzzled at first, then realized what I ment. "Countess Yvain de Chrys? She is you mother?"

I nodded as I started for the door. He rushed over to me and put a hand on mine. As I looked up into his eyes, he smiled and then kissed me deeply.

"I shall go with you, Cherie. Wait one moment." And he dressed hurridly.

We both left the room and made our way dwon the hall, only to hear Yvain shouting at Varsuviya. JeanClaude and I walked in to see what was going on.

"Amneris is sick!" She shouted.

"Mother! Please calm yourself." I said, softly. "Now is not the time to be fighting. Our fate depends upon us pulling together. HathorRa, my dear friend, I hope you become well again. But, I do have news, for all of you. I took a hold of JeanClaude's right hand and led him in. "Mother, I have taken a consort. Monsieur JeanClaude Minot, or should I say Count JeanClaude Minot." I smiled.

Yvain looked surprised, as did Varsuviya.

There's No Stopping Her Now!

Author: JeanClaude Minot

Date: 07-23-04 04:29

I knew it. As we had consumated our becoming consorts, Vladira seemed to grow somewhat nervous. As we kissed, my hands caressing her as I plunged deep within her, her soft moans and pleadings whispered into my ears, she then threw me off, and scurried out of bed.

"Vladira? What is it?" I asked, as she grabbed her robe.

"My mother is angered about something."

"Countess Yvain de Chrys? She is you mother?" I asked. "Let me go with you. Just a moment."

As I dressed, she watched me. Her smile brightened my heart. It had been a long time for both of us since we had taken a consort. I could feel Vladira's blood flowing and mingling with mine. Our lives coming together, I could sense some of the things she could. I could faintly hear the Countess Yvain de Chrys, angered with someone, shouting from down the hall.

I joined Vladira as we made our way down the hall. Vladira found where her mother was, and saw the dilema. We discovered that the Princess Amneris HathorRa appeared to be ill. Vladira seemed to know otherwise. As she tried to calm her mother, the Countess Varsuviya Ignatious was upset at what has happened to Princess Amneris.

Then, Vladira told her mother about us. "Mother, I have taken a consort. Monsieur JeanClaude Minot, or should I say Count JeanClaude Minot."

Countess Yvain looked at her, then at me. Her look of pure surprise. As Vladira smiled, sheslid her right arm around my waist and we kissed.

"Do you approve mother?" She asked.

I looked down at Vladira, then over at Countess Yvain. "Countessa, I do love your daughter, deeply. Even though we had barely met this evening. We do have a common enemy as well. But, Vladira and I were drawn to each other, and we found ourselves in each other's arms. Please do not think of us as impetuous."

Vladira walked over and embraced her mother. "I do love him, mother." She smiled. Then, her expression changed to a look of concern, and horror as she looked at her friend Amneris. "Vladmir is near. I can sense him. But, there is someone else. I fear for our lives. Vladmir is no longer alone. He has someone with him."

The room fell silent, then Vladira spoke again. "I must prepare my chylde. She will be quite helpful."

Yvain mentoned about a "Deianira", and Vladira shook her head. "No, mother. Elsa." Vladira leaned over Princess Amneris and gently kissed her on the forehead. She whispered something I could not hear, then turned back towards the door.

"Do you need me to help?" I asked.

Vladira smiled. "I must do this alone, JeanClaude. Please stay and help my mother with the Princess. Varsuviya, this is not your fault. It is Vladmir's." And she walked out of the room.

I sighed as I watched her walk down the hall, her walk was graceful. She opened her bedrrom door and went in. I turned and looked over at the others.

"What can I do to help, Countessa?" I asked.

Conversations with Jean-Claude

Author: Countess Yvain de Chrys

Date: 07-23-04 11:55

"...Mother, I have taken a consort. Monsieur JeanClaude Minot, or should I say Count JeanClaude Minot..."

"...Contessa, I do love your daughter, deeply. Even though we had barely met this evening. We do have a common enemy as well. But, Vladira and I were drawn to each other, and we found ourselves in each other's arms. Please do not think of us as impetuous...."

Never a dull moment in this mansion, I think to myself replaying everything that has occured in the last hour or so.

I stand looking at Count JeanClaude Minot and then down at Domynique. He glances at the Count and they both nod in greeting. He returns his attention to tending to Amneris.

Varsuviya seems in another place.

Briant the servant materializes and asks if he may be of any service.

"Yes, could you please bring some fresh linen and pillows as well as a comfortable cot to this room. It shall be for Countess Ignatious and I shall be reclining upon the chaise. Please bring something for me as well."

Briant nods and leaves.

I turn to the rather dashing Count Minot and extend my hand.

"I'm sorry that we meet under these rather strained circumstances JeanClaude. I am Vladira's mother and please call me Yvain."

He smiles and I'm put in mind of Cary Grant.

I glance across the room and notice that Domynique is still tending to Amneris and it seems that she is resting peacefully. Domynique turns to me and nods a silent answer to a silent question.

I turn my full attention upon JeanClaude Minot.

"Monsieur, you will have to call me old fashioned, and possibly still stuck in the ways of the old regime. But I prefer it if you just know me as a mother; a concerned parent."

JeanClaude came to stand in my line of view upon the balcony. The purity of the moonlight coupled with the breeze on the night air created ideal weather for lovers and couples strolling.

I smiled at some old memory.

"JeanClaude I do realize that Vladira is a grown woman and able to make her own decisions and choices, but I don't know you as well as she may know you. Where do you come from mon cher, tell me of your family of your history. Tell me all about JeanClaude Minot."

I stood looking in his face. I could see why Vladira liked him; that much was apparent.

"JeanClaude, i've no doubt you are an exceptional man, but you must handle my daughter very carefully and be sure that you are ready to commit to her because taking her on means that you willingly take on all of her demons and personal wars because that means that they become your demons and wars as well!"

He turned his face toward the moon and closed his eyes. I waited for him to speak.

Illusions and Delusions

Author: Baroness Godiva de Winter

Date: 07-23-04 15:22

She sits quietly on the padded embrassure looking out at the cold starkness of the moonlit night.

Dark thoughts assail her mind.

He moves around the spacious room. She is aware of his presence.

He is vastly upset about something, his page relating some trifle that only he would get upset over.

She smiles to herself and closes her eyes.

He snorts in disgust. The dark page leaves.

The room is spacious and beautiful. Dark, classic furniture decorates and a blazing fire in the fireplace gives the impression of warmth but the room is deadly cold and in a chill.

It is all an illusion...

His illusion.

She looks at him, the light from the faux-fire casting a shadow over her perfect Garbo-esque features, does he know his power is growing weaker? Does he realize that he has failed her consort, the dark one, one time too many?

She watches him as he parades toward the double doors to let the valet out, no, he hasn't realized it. He is still arrogant and snide.

She smirks when he turns around and catches her observing him. No he doesn't know that her Consort is soon to be calling upon his soul and that of his niece and those she loves.

The quiet is broken. He speaks.

"Well now, Godiva, thy daughter of Hell, and Herodias among demons; what is it that has your face mocking me?"

She stares at him intently. She speaks, her deep voice, feminine, but entirely too heavy for any normal female. (it may put you in mind of Lauren Bacall)

"Vladmir you do realize that there is a large debt that must be paid in full, don't you?"

The question is asked casually, though the implications are strong.

His face twists in anger for a moment before smoothing in satanic ease.

"My darling, Godiva, everything is working according to plan. Never mind you, the debt will soon be paid as I promised."

He walks back toward the desk and settles down to do some work.

She stands and walks, the faint rustling of her 18th century maroon and ebony gown, the only sound in the quite, dead air. "Vladmir how are the plans coming along for the building of the country estate boardering the Crimson Kiss manor?"

"Fine darling, fine."

She glares at him silently cursing him and reveling in the images of torturing his damned soul in the nether-regions of her Seventh hell.

Oh, how he will suffer all of the torments I can name and cannot name. She thinks; feral leer distorting her face into a mask of pure demonic evil.

She walks back toward the window, it is time to begin engaging her own plans.

Rare Gems of Understanding

Author: Vampiress Belladonna

Date: 07-23-04 17:51

"I've seen that picture of Ava Montgomery," Belle chuckled about the police officer who once came far too close to discovering the nature and location of the last Sanctuary. "She looks yummy!"

"Did someone say 'Ava Montgomery'?" a man's voice called from the door. Belle turned to find a handsome couple entering the parlor from the doorway leading to the grand staircase. They were remarkably attired, even by Kindred standards: modern styling of Renaissance opulence.

"I say again, did someone say Ava Montgomery?" the man repeated as his keen eyes surveyed the vampires assembled in the room until he found for whom he was looking.

"Belladonna, I presume," he intoned with needless melodrama as he stepped up to their hostess. "A gift from the House of Kane to you."

Something about his demeanor suggested his presents came with more strings than just the lace bow decorating the small box he offered. So Belle accepted the gift without comment, but smiled to herself when she opened it to find a priceless ruby bracelet.

"My name is Sutter Kane," he added before she could respond. "And this is my consort, Samantha Bouvier. And we are pleased to make your acquaintance."

"The pleasure, I am sure, is all mine," Belle replied with similar formality as she rose to extend her hand in greeting. "Welcome to Crimson Kiss Manor."

"And thank you for the lovely gift," she added as they shook hands. She did not consider refusing his generosity, recognizing it would be an insult. Besides, after all the hard work she had put into rebuilding this Sanctuary, she deserved a few perks. "I'm afraid it doesn't match my green dress, though. I'll have to wait until another evening for the honor of wearing it."

As she returned the bracelet to its velvety box, she resisted joking that he should have brought emeralds. Despite his affable expression, he did not seem the type who would appreciate such a jest. Again, she found herself imitating his courtly manners.

"I trust you have found your accommodations satisfactory," Belle said with very little emotion, and even less expectation of contradiction. The simplest suites in this mansion were the epitome of luxury. Then, with the pleasantries out of the way, Belle turned to the question that had troubled her since this man entered the room. She looked deeply into his eyes before posing it.

"Just what do you know of Officer Ava Montgomery?"

Awaiting his lover

Author: Davis Santiago

Date: 07-24-04 17:43

He had tired of waiting by the fountain for Bianca to return, and so inside the manor he went. He was not hungry, surely not as much as she was, and his dark gaze glanced to Belladonna, who sat non chalantly in the parlor. As he passed, he saw a few others gathered, a few new faces as well as old, moving up to his room. His jealous streak had run its course and he had calmed himself to await Bianca's return.

He sat at the window, gazing out across the dark mountains and the forest treetops, as he relaxed in the luxurious chair. He crossed one boot over his knee and brought his fingers to his chin in contemplation. Bianca's suddenly playfulness in the presence of Belladonna concerned him. Was she becoming something different suddenly then the more conservative vampiress he had come to know? He couldn't be sure, and it almost frightened him to think about change. He had seen the world change so many times through the decades and every time, it always seemed to just creep up on him. He wondered if immortality was truly the answer to strength...his sire once told him that in their undead life, they would see and hear things normal mortal man could only dream to experience. But he wondered at what cost.

"Why so glum, my love?", was the voice he heard after sitting in the chamber for quite a long time. He turned, not rising from his seat as Bianca entered the room. The scent of fresh mortal blood upon her flesh, as well as the scent of mortal seed. It disgusted him, but how they retrieved their meals, often time was a fact of what they were. He spoke quietly as his gaze moved back towards the reflecting windows.

"Just thinking about a few things love, that's all. How was your meal?"

Furious

Author: Countess Varsuviya Ignatious

Date: 07-25-04 12:54

I had just about considered giving Countess Yvain a piece of my mind and then perhaps a good back hand across her pretty face when suddenly the doors flew open to reveal Vladira and a handsome gentleman that I had never met before. I saw them without seeing them for a moment, as my heart was palipatating so fiercely within my chest from anger, betrayal and fear. Regarding them as though they weren't even present, I turned from Vladira and the gentleman and narrowed my eyes at Yvain.

"You listen here you bitch," I snarled at her, my face so close to hers our faces touched. "I know that you feel that you are all powerful because you have been kindred for a very long time. But I too am of the same race as you are and I would advise you to be a bit more cautious in the manner in which you address somebody of my caliber. Iam the Princess of England, and although we are not in that country presently, I INSIST on being treated as befits my rank. Further more...." i added between clenched teeth, "If you ever threaten me like that again then you shall see the face of anger as you have never before seen. MARK ME!"

With that I began to turn on my heel and storm out of the room, then stopped myself. It was not like me to walk out on whilst guests were present and secondly, I didn't want to give Yvain the pleasure of seeing me walk out like a coward. I spun around and flashed a smile at Vladira and her gentleman companion.

"Hello darling Vladira!" I said to her. "It is lovely to see you again. I see that you have acquired a new man?"

She nodded. "Indeed I have Viya. It is good to see you again. How long has it been now? Two and a half years?"

I nodded. "Yes. You are looking well. And who is this striking young man?"

Vladira introduced him as Jean, probably a french man. I smiled at him and held out my hand.

"You must forgive me monsieur for that most, unlady like outburst," I stated, giving Yvain a snug little grin. To my pleasure, she kept glaring at me. "My name is Countess Varsuviya and it is a pleasure to meet you. I hope that you and Vladira will be happy together."

With that I departed into the next room, where my beloved Amneris was still sleeping.....stilled as if dead.

My Story to Mother Yvain

Author: JeanClaude Minot

Date: 07-25-04 19:14

"JeanClaude I do realize that Vladira is a grown woman and able to make her own decisions and choices, but I don't know you as well as she may know you. Where do you come from mon cher, tell me of your family of your history. Tell me all about JeanClaude Minot." Vladira's mother, The Countessa Yvain asked of me.

I looked up, then closed my eyes. I let out a long sigh, then began to speak. My voice was all that was heard between us.

"Countess, mother, I come from a family that served His Majesty, William the Conqueror. I fought along side of him in 1066 at the Battle of Hastings. We had become great freinds.

During the battle, we had become separated. He fought long and hard, as did many of our Norman bretheren. As I saw His Majesty just a few yards from me, I started towards him to help him in his fight, I was felled by a sword. Stabbed into me, I fell. He did not see me, unfortunatly, and I could not cry out to him.

As the battle had moved on, I lay on my back, dying. Then, I heard a woman's voice telling me "I will not die, that I would return to serve him again."

I looked to see a woman standing over me, her silver hair flowing in the evening breeze just as the sun had settled out of sight. Two men picked me up and carried me to an unknown place. I had fallen unconcious.

When I had awoken, the pain was gone, as were my wounds. I started to sit up only to find I was in a cottage. The woman introduced herself as Countessa Antoinette Verdoux. She told me my new life was about to begin. She had made me her chylde.

I had become accustomed to my new life. As we both went through the centuries together, I had realized how I longed for more. She knew it as well. We eventually crossed paths with Count Vladmir Lucarda in London in 1550. Antoinette thought he was a friend, but, I had misgivings. I had gone to hunt one night, while Antoinette entertained Vladmir.

I returned shortly before midnight, only to find him ravaging her. She tried to cry out, but, right before my eyes, he laughed and tore out her throat. I tried to stop him, but he picked me up and threw me out of a window onto the street below.

Before I could recover, he set fire to the house and rushed out, laughing. I tried to get in, but, the fire was so intense, I could not. I had lost my Mistress and consort. I have vowed to find him and destroy him."

I stopped for a bit, and looked at Yvain. She hung on to every word. I continued.

"I have hunted him down for centuries. I settled down outside of New Orleans just before your American Revolution, living in privacy. I did fight to defend my home then, and in the War of 1812, as well as the American Civil War. So many wars in your history. The bayou a good place to dispose of my prey when I am finished with them. I lost track of Vladmir not too long ago, again. I came here hoping that someone would know of his whereabouts. Then, I met your raveshing daughter Vladira. Something within me came to life as I first saw her down in the parlour.

Mother Yvain, as I took Vladira as my consort, and she took me, I could sense the demons within her. The nightmares that plague her. She is still controlled by Vladmir, but, only a little. She is quite strong, and obviously becoming stronger every day. I will stand beside her, not matter what the cost.

When I touch her, I am alive and happy. She calms the darkness within me, as I do within her. She has told me much about herself. Her three prior consorts. One, her father killed, which she said was necessary. The second being her beloved Eric, whom Vladmir's hunters killed along with her clan, and then there was a Prussian General named Piotre Mikhal Iliya Petrovich. I was wondering if you knew about him. She says it was so long ago, and that Vladmir murdered him as well.

Mother, I cannot be without her. Every moment her blood flows within me, I know her more. I love her deeply."

And I looked back up at the moon, and smiled.

"Vladira is my Venus, her body, my temple of love. I would die for her. I give myself freely to her, and she to me."

As I looked back at Yvain, she smiles a little. I take a hold of her right hand and kneel down in front of her.

"Mother, my loyalties and love are to Vladira, and to you." And I kissed the back of her hand.

The One and Only

Author: Bianca The Bloody

Date: 07-26-04 06:17

"Just thinking about a few things love, that's all. How was your meal?" Davis asked turning his attention back to whatever he saw beyond the windows, if anything.

"Satisfying enough...I do not desire going out for the rest of the evening. Nor do I wish to go back alone." Bianca said coming to stand behind her lover. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed the top of his head. "I am sorry, my love, do know that. I am sorry for the way I reacted."

Davis turned his head to look Bianca in the eyes. "Why are you apologizing? You shouldn't have to..."

"No, I should. I feel terrible for storming out of the manor before talking things over rationally with you. Please know, Davis, that you do not need to fight over me. I did enjoy our time with Belladonna, there's no doubt about that. However, you will always be the only want I want. You are my forever." This time she kissed his forehead and smiled. She came around to sit on his lap, still keeping her arms wrapped around his neck. Bianca looked her world in the eyes when she looked at Davis. "I could not imagine another day in this world without you." Bianca whispered. She leaned in and kissed his lips gently, then held onto him tightly, leaning her head on his shoulder. She not only felt like a child at this moment, but she felt like should Davis ever leave her, she would not survive in the world. It was a rediculous thought, but it seemed so true at this moment.

She saw the new Kindred that had entered the manor since the time she had left. She wondered if that was why Belladonna didn't follow her...not that she really wanted the Mistress to come after her. She sat up and smiled at Davis. "My love, what do you say we go greet the new Kindred. We were so anti-social in the last manor...let us not become that again..."

Dinner Party

Author: Vampiress Laura

Date: 07-26-04 12:49

Violet has taught Laura how to track wolf packs, and to enlist their eager assistance in disposing of the remains of a meal. The wolves themselves have a sense of it and, as Laura and Damiana approach the secluded clearing, start to bay in welcome and anticipation. By the time Laura drops the carcass in the tall grass, a dozen pairs of eyes stare out at them from the tree-line, glowing like orange embers with reflected moonlight.

Laura and Damiana find the path at the far end of the clearing, and resume their hike back toward the manor. Almost at once, however, Laura turns to watch the wolves as they begin to dismember and eviscerate the corpse, distributing the pieces among themselves in accordance with some indecipherable hierarchy. Laura appears nearly transfixed by the gory interplay.

"They no longer seem human to me," she confesses softly as she watches a smaller male carry a detached arm to an empty corner of the glen. "Our prey, I mean... They're all so ordinary... so dull. I feel far more akin to these wolves than to any mortal person."

Damiana doesn't answer, but turns an ear back the way they have just come.

The change in Damiana's face registers for Laura simultaneously with the approaching racket of at least two humans.

"They're heading straight for us," Laura observes, relying on her heightened predatory senses. "Do you think we're being followed?"

A welcoming embrace

Author: Countess Yvain de Chrys

Date: 07-26-04 18:04

"Mother, my loyalties and love are to Vladira, and to you." And he kissed the back of my hand.

I stared at him for a moment longer and turned my face toward the moon.

Yes indeed JeanClaude Minot, Now Count and my daughters Consort was indeed a charming and sincere man.

I turned back to him and smiled.

"Well my darling, I believe you have won me over. My only wish is that you take care of my daughter and treat her with much respect. Vladira is a strong woman and one who will not tolerate any out of the way dissension in her life."

JeanClaude nods his accent.

"I assure you madame, you have nothing to worry about. I cherish Vladira for eternity."

I smile and clasp him to myself.

"Well then there is nothing else to do accept welcome you. Welcome my son!"

Uncertainty

Author: Countess Varsuviya Ignatious

Date: 07-27-04 07:47

I sat there in the Princess's chamber void of any other person aside from myself and stared longingly at her as she lay there, motionless. My heart beat furiously in my chest and I could feel my pulse beginning to pick up with a state of uncertainty and fright for the wellbeing of my loved one that no words could quite describe. She looked so beautiful, as she she were sleeping, but I knew...I KNEW that this was no ordinary state.

I thought then of what the Countess Yvain had shared with me, something about one called Vladmir or something like that. She had said that the memory of him was a strong reason for why Amneris was so mentally and emotionally distraught. I turned away from the Princess' body for a moment and looked suddenly at my wrists. The ever so lethal red marks still remained from when Yvain had caught me and was about to throw me against the wall. I could feel myself boiling over with fury...not so much at Yvain, but art myself.

Why couldnt' I see it before? What was I doing there? What the Fuck was happening to my beloved?

There were so many things that I wanted and needed to do. Above all, i dreamed of having Amneris back to her regular, sexy self...so that I could once again feel her against me...and relish in the sound of her husky voice telling me how badly she wanted my body and how much she loved me. I wanted to sort out things with Yvain as well, who despite our differences, I really wanted to make amends with. She was clearly somebody close to the Princess, a dear friend of hers as well as the mother of Vladira...another vampiress who had been kind to me when we had first met. And of course, how could I forget Cassandra who was just doors down the hallway sleeping.....wholly unaware of the drama taking place?

I was just about to stand to my feet and renter the room where Vladira, her mother and Jean were standing, when I suddenly heard a muffled moan...so low that I couldn't possibly have been able to hear it had I not had such acute hearing. I turned my head slowly and looked at Amneris.

Could it be? I rushed over to her...and pressed my ear against her chest. Her heart was fluttering and she was faintly breathing. Thank Ra, I thought to myself...for the first time making reference to one of the Egyptian Gods. But why wouldn't she rise?

"Amneris?" I whispered, taking her delicate hand in my own. I kissed her cheek, only to have my lips meet cold flesh. I could have cried myself to death over seeing her so helpless.

"Please darling, you must rise..." I whispered. "You know I love you. Please Amneris...if you are conscious enough to hear me...then answer me. Say something......."

Searching for some company

Author: Cassandra Belmont

Date: 07-27-04 11:08

Cassandra knew as soon as she found herself awake once again that she was not going to attempt to fall back asleep. She was certainly restless this evening, and what with evil dreams haunting her peaceful sleep, who wouldn't be? She simply dragged herself out of the scruffy bedsheets she had lain in and searched for her beautiful silk robe to wrap around her figure.

For a moment, she decided to sit beside the window and gaze out into the night. The stars were bright this evening, as was the wonderfully full moon. For a moment she smiled to herself as she thought about werewolves and howling at the moon, but then she stopped rather abruptly. Before she had become a vampiress, she would never have allowed herself to believe in such "nonsense." Yet after she became what she was, she certainly allowed her mind to open up to such beliefs. She began to believe that most things.. in fact, anything.. was possible, and she never doubted herself again. In fact, before the burning of the last manor, there were rumours of such a creature at the Kiss. That almost forced Cassandra to believe in things that were supposedly "fantasy."

Shortly afterwards, Cassandra decided to clean herself up and make her way down to the parlor. Varsuviya had taken herself elsewhere, most probably for the evening, and she wasn't planning on going back to sleep anytime soon, so why not, she thought to herself. She had been rather desperately hoping to mingle with other members of the manor, yet she and her lover had always been rather tied up since they arrived back at the Kiss. Now that her dearest Viya had left for a while, Cassandra could think of nothing better to do with her time. After all, she was certain that Varsuviya may be having a little more fun than she suspected she was..

So Cassandra made her way to the bathroom and filled the tub with warm water and plenty of bubbles whilst removing her gown. She jumped at first as she placed her foot into the rather hot water, but soon became used to the feeling upon her soft, tanned skin. She bathed for a rather long time before deciding to step out of the tub, but it didn't matter so much to her. She decided to take her time this evening. It felt relaxing to have some time to herself, if only for a little while, and she was certainly not about to waste it by rushing about all over the place, that was for sure.

She eventually stepped out and caught a glimpse at herself in the steamy mirror. She had forgotten just how much she liked her body, from her long, sexy legs to her thick dark hair. She owed thanks to her mother for giving her so many of her wonderful South American genes. Cassandra was almost glad that she didn't look tremendously like her father. She soon shook her head to rid herself of the thought. She wouldn't waste this evening by thinking of the man she quite possibly hated the most in the world.

After caressing herself for a few moments, she soon had a sudden longing for her beloved to appear by her side. Cassandra adored it when Varsuviya ran her hands all over her body, telling her how much she loved her and what a pretty little thing she had turned out to be. Yet it made her slightly upset when she realized that her darling was currently visiting another woman whom she held rather close to her heart, and, as much as she hated to admit it, a woman whom she certainly had trouble competing with in terms of beauty.

Yet soon enough, Cassandra dressed herself in quite a beautiful outfit that made her figure look even slimmer. The black and grey pinstriped pants certainly emphasized on her rear end, and the matching black tank had a small v cut neckline, showing off just the right amount of flesh hidden underneath. She ran her brush quickly through her hair, letting it flow loosely down her back, and after applying a tiny amount of make-up, she took a final look in the mirror. She looked well enough.

Quickly pushing her feet into her favorite pair of heels, she found herself almost dashing down to the parlor. She felt a sudden thirst all of a sudden, plus the need to socialize, which was a large part of Cassandra's life.

She was soon down there, rushing over to the bar and ordering a large glass of the sweet nectar that she was craving at that very moment. After gulping down the first glass rather too quickly and ordering another, she found herself a seat and sat down quietly.

Cassandra didn't know just how many people were gathered down there, but she could certainly feel a few pairs of eyes upon her figure. That always made her nervous. She hadn't had the opportunity to meet many of the other members of the Kiss, and she wasn't entirely certain if she had ever ventured out alone before. She didn't want people to think of her as Varsuviya's "pet." She hoped they considered her to be her own person and didn't tag her name along with her lovers all the time.

She took a 3 second glance around the room to see if she recognized a few of the faces gathered there with her. She had seen a few of them before, but knew none of them by name.

She turned back around to her drink and bravely took herself to a table, mostly to be nosy and gaze around at the people who would make their way in later on.

Yet she still felt utterly alone at that moment. Part of her wished for her dearest, wished she had a companion, yet another part of her wished she could have the courage to approach a random table and begin a conversation. Cassandra had never been good at starting the conversation, she was more of a listener in fact. She soon realized just how good it was that her lover wasn't there with her. Now people knew that she was her own person if they hadn't considered her one before. They knew that she was perfectly capable of venturing out herself, without supervision of any sort.

However, the onlookers continued to stare at her as if she was unapproachable alone, like she was some loony who had just escaped from the asylum and wasn't to be approached when she was by herself. It was like they all considered Varsuviya to be her supervisor, her caretaker..

Cassandra remained seated alone, without making a single movement. She was praying.. praying that somebody, ANYBODY, would talk to her. She hated being here alone, she just wanted a companion.

She gazed awkwardly into her glass, purposely keeping her face down.

Oh please, she prayed to herself in her head. Please, somebody, show me that you know me to be Cassandra, and NOT Varsuviya's toy.. Please..

The voice was surprisingly pleading.

Joining the Rest

Author: Bianca The Bloody

Date: 07-27-04 12:19

Bianca and Davis left the room together to join the rest of the Kindred in the manor. They were all gathered in the parlor, as normal. Bianca was surely looking forward to meeting new vampires...hopefully there were some as young as she was. There was an uncomfortable feeling with being a young vampiress. She felt as if they all were better than her and that she meant nothing. But Bianca knew that was not true.

Hand in hand, Davis and Bianca made their way into the parlor. Bianca sported a warm smile to all who took notice of them entering the room. There were many more in the parlor than she had imagined there to be.

"My love, would you care for a drink?" Davis asked.

"Yes...would you mind?" she asked smiling at him.

"Not at all..." he said moving from her to go to the bar to retrieve two glasses of sweet wyne. As Davis was at the bar, Bianca took a moment to gaze about the room for any familiar faces. At one table, by herself, she saw Countess Varsuviya's chylde Cassandra. She remembered the young vampiress from when they first came to the manor. Bianca made her way to the table and smiled down at Cassandra.

"Good evening...Cassandra, was it?" she asked.

Cassandra seemed a bit stunned, but only for a brief moment. "Uh...yes. You are Bianca, am I right?" she asked.

"Yes..." Bianca said as Davis made his way over to the women. "You remember Davis?" Cassandra nodded and smiled. "May we join you?" Bianca asked cordially.

"Be my guest..." Cassandra smiled, noting the empty chairs around her. Bianca and Davis took their seats next to each other, across the table from Cassandra. Bianca took a slow sip of her wyne. It wasn't nearly as warm and satisfying as the blood she had had earlier, but it was still good nonetheless. She looked up and smiled again to Cassandra.

"You're alone this evening. I take it the Countess is tending to other things?" Bianca asked. Cassandra seemed to get an annoyed look on her face then answered.

"Yes...she is out for the evening." Cassandra said, with almost a sigh of relief. Bianca couldn't tell if it was relief that she was without the Countess for the night, or if it was that she had someone to talk to.

"Good then!" Bianca said clasping her hands together and placing them on the table. "This gives us ample time to get to know one another." Davis seemed a bit quiet. She didn't know if he was really enjoying the little social hour, but in the former manor they were never very sociable. Bianca wanted to change that. Not to jump into a crowd of people, but to get to know some, if not all, the Kindred one by one. Cassandra seemed such a pleasant woman. She was very beautiful and exotic as well. She would be an interesting person to get to know.

Company at last!

Author: Cassandra Belmont

Date: 07-27-04 13:29

Cassandra was still a little paranoid as larger groups of people began to enter the parlor. She hated sitting here alone like a complete outcast, really she did. Yet she did not long for her darling like she had a few hours ago.. no, she was, in fact, enjoying this time alone. It gave her time to get her head straight, to think, to relax, and of course, to do her own thing.

Cassandra was still gazing idly down into her glass when she heard a familiar voice.

"Good evening...Cassandra, was it?"

Cassandra was a little stunned as she looked up into the face of the rather attractive woman who she soon remembered to be Bianca.

"Uh...yes," she began. "You are Bianca, am I right?"

"Yes..." Bianca replied as she seemed to gaze in the direction of a young gentleman making his way over to the table.

"You remember Davis?" Bianca asked her. Cassandra replied with a nod and a smile. "May we join you?" she asked her again.

"Be my guest..." Cassandra smiled, noting the empty chairs around her. Bianca and Davis took their seats next to each other, across the table from Cassandra. Bianca took a slow sip of her wyne and looked up to her with a smile. Cassandra returned it. She was so grateful that they had come to join her. After all, it was some company for her at last!

"You're alone this evening. I take it the Countess is tending to other things?" Bianca asked. Cassandra knew that was bound to come up, but it still made her a little annoyed. However, she soon forgot all her anger and gave Bianca a calm, sweet reply. She promised herself that she would not think about what her lover was doing tonight. No. Tonight was purely about her.

"Yes...she is... out for the evening." Cassandra said, with almost a sigh of relief.

All the time she looked at Bianca, she was so glad that she was here with her! It felt wonderful to be socializing with others once again, and she was alone as well. She was Cassandra, not Varsuviya's partner. This evening was turning out to be rather exciting, she thought to herself.

"Good then!" Bianca said clasping her hands together and placing them on the table. "This gives us ample time to get to know one another."

She gave Bianca a large grin and nodded in agreement.

"Yes, I suppose it does!" she said with a hearty laugh. Yes, it did feel wonderful to have company again.

"So... you must tell me about yourselves," Cassandra began. She had to admit, Davis seemed slightly quiet throughout all this. She began to wonder if he really wanted to be here as much as his lover did.

She picked up her conversation once again.

"Yes, you must tell me more about yourselves! Let's start from the beginning, I must admit, I am awfully curious about the two of you. So.. when did you first meet?"

Song for Amneris......

Author: Countess Varsuviya Ignatious

Date: 07-27-04 14:01

I waited and waited and waited.

It seemed like just an eternity of waiting. I did not know what to do or what to make of it. I decided, that for comfort purposes, I would sing to my beloved hoping that the sound of my sweet voice might rouse her from her mysterious inactive state. The lyrics that spewed from my lips were entirely original and entirely spontaneous. Its expressed the love and adoration I felt for the Princess...

"My darling so lovely, emnating such heat

So that my heart in my breast dost cease to beat

Enraptured by the sensation of her heavenly touch

Does she truly know that I love her so much?

Her voice so seductive, when she whispers, its best

For every word, every phrase, is like a vocal caress...."

I paused to stroke her cool forehead,

"Lifes a torture, and not worth living

Even if my existance is naught but killing and sinning

For she is the light that dims the darkness in my heart

And should she die my composure would just fall apart..."

I surprised even myself with my lyrical skill, but it didn't matter much to me. I just wanted her back..I wanted her alive...I just wanted....her. I ran my lips over her throat and felt her fluttering pulse. This woman was indeed a fighter to have to courage to stand up to such a devil of an adversary. The demon was lurking inside of her...taking control and ripping her apart.....piece by piece.

"We must destroy this enemy," I vowed silently to her, taking her hand.

Cooling Waters

Author: Countess Yvain de Chrys

Date: 07-27-04 19:06

The Count and I entered the rooms for a moment. JeanClaude went in search of Vladira to help her retrive the needed articles and I stayed behind pacing, a lot of things on my mind.

There was too much weighing upon me.

I knew that something would have to be done and quickly.

I had never seen Amneris like this. I mean, at first I assumed it was all from loosing her precious prince, but this seemed much more deeper...almost like being tormented to a new level.

The mere thought of Amneris sent me quietly walking back toward the room. I entered quietly surprised to see Varsuviya sitting there.

My face instantly became cold as she quickly turned around and got up.

"Yvain...I..."

"I didn't come to argue with you Varsuviya, I'm only here to check on her." I said, my voice calm and face simply frozen.

She nodded and stood back a little. I walked toward the bed and stood looking down on my old friend and how beautiful and smooth her toffee colored skin looked against the flame colored satin linen she loved.

She was indeed a beautiful woman. Domynique entered quietly bringing with him a bowl and towel of cool water, scented with Jasmine.

I sat down by Amneris and began to wipe her forhead and neck to give her some coolness. Domynique stood off to the side near Varsuviya and as I washed her head my thoughts ran....

What the hell is going on with my old friend?

Changing The Subject

Author: Sutter Kane

Date: 07-27-04 20:53

"Just what do you know of Officer Ava Montgomery?"

Sutter smiled a smile that touched his eyes just as easily as it touched his lips and made it a point to make sure he looked deeply into both of Belladonna's eyes. He did this because he knew that Belladonna was weighting him in these few very critical moments, just as he was weighting her, yet if he failed now he would not obtain what it was he was seeking...

"Let us just say that Miss Montgomery and I once shared a past of sorts. One that no longer exists as the tie that once bound is now severed. Permanently I would think." There was a note of finality to his words.

He smiled once more at the Vampiress standing before him and let her know, that was all the information he was willing to part with... at this time. Especially where matters concerned his own past when he wanted to keep that past secreted away. Still looking at Belladonna closely, he knew it was not the exact answer that she had wanted, but it was a truthful answer. Sutter believed in speaking the truth, it was far easier to remember then having to try to remember countless lies.

"As to the accommodations being satisfactory?" he said as he smoothly changed the subject. "Yes, the accommodations that were provided to Samantha and myself by your very own Narcissa are more then adequate for both our needs and our stay here in the Manor." And in true southern elegance, Sutter

offered her a slight bow at the end of his sentence.

"And I apologize that the rubies do not match your dress, I feel absolutely terrible about it..."

Sutter then turned to Samantha and spoke again, "Once again my sweet, when it comes to stones your knowledge exceeds my own. I will simply have to make sure that I defer to your expertise in this area in the future. "

"Yes Sutter, once again where a Lady's best friend is concerned; you should always follow a Lady's advice."

"Indeed I will."

The exchange between Sutter and Samantha lasted a moment, yet in that moment it was only the two of them together in the room as all thought of other persons and concerns were simply melted away as they gazed upon one another. Turning his attention once more to Belladonna he continued speaking to her as if he had never stopped...

The three Kindred spoke for long moments about many things that interested them: from the different places they had been, to various encounters they had experienced and even various hunting techniques they enjoyed. And through it all the wyne flowed as easily as if would have had it been falling directly from the vein of a freshly pierced jugular.

At a lull in the conversation, as there were always lull's in any conversation, Sutter once again took control of the conversation by smoothly changing the subject...

"I see your chair... I do hope that when it arrived from Tuscany you found it to be packed and shipped adequately as I did take pains to make sure the leather would not split while on its way here."

Outta Here

Author: Hampton Culver

Date: 07-28-04 08:38

"I might be a coward but you're either crazy or stupid!" Hampton yelled at the woman with the gun. The way she was acting made him thing she was insane. Going into the woods after God knows what in the middle of the night.

She pushed him in the back again showing little regard for either of their welfare.

"Why the fuck even save my ass if you're just going to shoot me or run after those kids that attacked me? I think I need an ambulance. If you're a cop can't you get a copter to fly overhead? Where is your back up?"

Hampton was rambling now in terror. He could not see any reason for doing what they were doing. What had he done to women to deserve the kind of treatment he had gotten from these three weirdoes? Ok, so he did have a clue what that would be to have karma come back after his ass, and he resolved that if he got out of this he would treat women better than he had before. Yeah right, who was he kidding?

"What is your badge number? I am going to report you to your chief for kidnapping me and dragging an obviously injured man through the forest."

That was when he heard the sound of wolves again. They seemed to be much closer, and a lot more of them. It was too much for Hampton who decided he would rather be shot than eaten alive. His mind quickly came up with a plan. It might be foolish and get him killed but he already felt foolish and about to be killed.

He "tripped" on an exposed root and fell to the ground. The woman with the gun bent down to help him back up. As she did so Hampton knocked her down with a shoulder in her gut followed by a quick knee to her stomach.

The hand holding the pistol released it and the metal object fell to the ground along with its holder. Hampton didn't really want to assulat this woman, but he saw no other option. As she lay on the ground he kicked her in the face before kicking the gun away again.

She lay still on the ground and he hoped she was not to badly hurt. Nevertheless, he had to worry about his own skin and dug the key to the handcuffs out of her pocket. With a little difficulty he was out of them and running back down toward the road.

"Fuck her," he mumbled. If she really had a death wish fine, just don't bring him on that trip.

Branches grabbed at him. He had the eerie feeling that something was watching him and that caused him to run even faster. Hampton's chest burned as the smoke damaged lungs struggled to get air to his brain. His heart raced and the blood pounded in his ears. He didn't care. He just had to get out of here.

When he got to his car, he jumped in, forgetting to even pick up the scattered clothing lying around. A flick of the hand, the moving of some peddles and he was gone in a cloud of dust and flying pebbles.

Yvain

Author: Countess Varsuviya Ignatious

Date: 07-28-04 12:35

My soft singing was interrupted upon the opening of the french doors and the entrance of Countess Yvain and her handsome male companion. I opened my mouth to ask why it was so fucking impossible for Amneris and I to have a moment alone, when Yvain raised up her hand to assure me that she came for no conflict. I sighed with relief, as I really wanted to make amends with her. And so after a moment's hesitation I stood to my feet and approached Yvain just as a young child might when seeking her mother after performing a naughty feat.

"Yvain?"

She regarded me with a half turn of her pretty head.

"Would you kindly take a moment and speak with me please? I have something I really want to talk to you about darling,"

I spoke gently, huskily...nearly "Amneris like" In Yvain's ear. The Countess was a striking, sexy woman, but not even her royal and exotic beauty could hold a candle to the ravishing Amneris, who continued to lie there as if a corpse that would not decompose.

Yvain graced her thoughtful eyes over the body for a moment, then closed her eyes and nodded her head. I held out my hand to her and she grasped it, and after requesting the gentleman, Sir Dominyque to look after Amneris, Yvain followed me into the hallway. I looked at her seriously and stroked her cheek.

"Yvain, Iam most frightened. What will become of my beloved?"

"Which one?" She asked icily. I ignored her caustic manner.

"Yvain i didn't come out here to argue with you. Firstly, I want to apologize for what I said and what i attempted to do to you earlier this evening. It was completely spur of the moment..i was caught up in my furious spontaniety." I shifted my touch from her cheek to her hand.

"These are most difficult times and the last we need is to allow this foolish hostility to resume. I say we let things go and try to become more friendly." I flashed my fangs, in a sad, regretful beam. "You are beautiful Yvain, in some ways you even remind me of darling Amneris..."

"Viya?" Yvain asked confused. "Surely you cannot mean..."

I drew her close to me and kissed her cheek then stepped back and smiled at her again. "I do Yvain. I have realized as of late that you are a good woman with honest intentions. Let us let the by gones go....our little argument earlier I mean. What say you?"

By gones be by gones

Author: Countess Yvain de Chrys

Date: 07-28-04 17:36

I stood staring deeply at Varsuviya.

She was indeed a gorgeous woman in her own right.

I knew that she loved my old friend with such intensity.

I gently loosened my hand from hers and turned toward the doors leading back into the room. She stood there a look of defeat upon her features.

I turned around and spoke.

"We shall let by gones be by gones and I too apologize mignon. However I love my darling Amneris deeply and she has suffered too much hurt! I would counsel you to please keep that in your head as you strive to get into a relationship with her. Remember, you also have another that loves YOU deeply. Please be considerate of my dear Amneris."

I continued to walk back into the room where Domynique stood applying the cool compresses to her head.

My mind returned to its original question. What the hell is going on?

Midnight Meetings

Author: Baroness Godiva de Winter

Date: 07-28-04 18:48

She broods.

Standing there by the windows of her chambers. The feeling of an oppressive evil seems to cloak the room and permeate her atmosphere.

She recognizes Him. She can smell Him. She is familiar with HIM!

His hands caress her shoulders and she can feel the hell-fire deep within them.

She knows what he wants.

He speaks in a low voice of resounding strength and depth.

"His debt must be fulfilled My Lady."

She never turns from the window. Staring out over the false countryside leading into the dark sea, she hears the cry of one of the hounds of hell and it resounds across the quiet.

She speaks.

"I am aware of it My Lord, I am waiting on him to get in position before the deed is done, an...."

He cuts her off. Squeezing her arms so hard she almost yelps.

"Vladmir is fastly ending up on the wrong side of The Dark One's patience. His time has just about run out and The Dark One grows restless and impatient."

She turns and faces the demonically handsome 'man' before her Of course she can see his true grotesque, demonic appearance beneath the illusion of a man he's donned on. She speaks to him.

"Lord Apollyon, I am aware of my mission and the importance of it to my Consort. I am in control of the situation. Vladmir is fastly becoming tiresome and I will soon end his miserable existence, but not until he leads me to the one." With that she turns toward the window again.

She feels his putrid breath against her neck.

"You had better, lovely one, or I'm afraid your Consort will not tolerate you to exist any more. You have grown too powerful and to him only one person can rule hell!" The last bits of his words caressed her like a sharp razor in a velvet bag.

She winced briefly and he laughed while dissappearing.

She was left alone once more.

Enjoyment of a New Life

Author: Elsa von Spielburg

Date: 07-29-04 03:52

It was over. My mortal life, gone forever! Now, I had found I was stronger, and finally had a family who cared. As I had switched rooms with JeanClaude, Vladira came in, and noticed me getting my things squared away.

"I have told Briant that you and JeanClaude switched rooms. Are you alright here?" She smiled, as she picked up a small statuette of mine and looked it over.

"Of course, Vladira. I'm glad that you've found someone. It must've been a long time since you had someone as handsome as JeanClaude."

She nodded. "Much too long." And she put the stauette on a shelf. "Elsa, I wanted you to know that Vladmir is near. I do not know if my mother knows it. But, we must prepare for anything he might send against us. I will have to teach you what is to be done."

As I turned to look at her, she stared out of my bedroom window, her expression, one of sadness.

"I'm ready for anything you would want to show me, Vladira. What will I need to do?"

As Vladira turned and looked at me, I saw the faint smile upon her face. She stepped up to me and we embraced. I had never felt so wanted, so appreciated, in my life.

"You are willing to go through hell? Then, you are strong, Elsa." She whispered, then kissed me. Her lips pressed against mine, I had felt the strangeness of it, again. She pulled away and sighed.

"Vladira, there are some things you might want to know about me." I said as I turned and pulled some more of my personal items out of my duffle bag.

She tilted her head to the right a bit, curiosity on her face. I pulled out a small zippered bag and opened it. I pulled out a small roll and placed it on the dresser.

"What is that?" She asked.

"Part of my Tai Chi ensemble. I practice it when I am depressed or angry about something. It helps ease the pain. I have the rest in the closet hung up."

Vladira wanted to know more about it. Her interest peaked. "Say, why don't I teach you the basics. It's good for the body and soul. Helps with relaxation."

Vladira smiled as she helped me with the rest of my unpacking. "Sure thing then. We'll be each other's pupils." And we laughed.

I had started to become a bit hungry, so Vladira told me where I could go downstairs to get a meal. I now had the chance to meet the others on their level, so to speak. No more being treated like a servant, but now I'm kindred, and found it quite interesting.

I made my way downstairs and into the dining room, hoping to find some of the others, and I did. "Good evening." I smiled, my glistening fangs showing.