Sense of Self

Author: Lia

Date: 09-01-04 11:31

Ah. Not an ally, not a friend. What had I been expecting?

Actually nothing, I had only been putting off the inevitable. It wouldn't be real, my rejection, being thrown at someone else's door as a problem, being foisted off onto society at large, rather than being dealt with at home and in private. Not until I made my formal introduction, not until I had been accepted into the company, would it be truly and irrevocably real that I had been rejected by all that I had known, and then discarded simply becasue I was no longer convenient to have around. It made me feel terrible, and having felt so horrible over the past few weeks, days and hours, I was surprised to feel something else underneath it, rage. I had never felt anything like it, it was like a wild beast was in my skull, and I suddenly felt hot all over. I felt myself beginning to shake a little, and stiffened my spine, determined to show no weakness to any of the rest of...them. I stood in the room, trying to get control of myself, trying to shove down the anger so that I didn't make any more mis-steps and thereby alienate the Vampires as I had their dog.

So there was nothing in it for me, not an ally, not even just a little information. He had plans for one of the other Vampiresses here, and then he had plans for me? We'd see about that, I might not be much, but I'm nobody's chew-toy! I stood in the shadowy doorway, waiting for something, not sure of what, and not sure of what it was that told me to wait, but aware that it had boiled up on the undercurrents of anger that were still perking along somewhere...deep in my chest and in the back of my throat, it felt like. Power tied to emotions? It would be something that I would have to check out. Any weapons at my disposal, I would learn how to wield. In any event, I didn't have long to wait, as really rather soon after Union left the room, a red-haired Vampiress passed the door. She looked in at me, curiously, and I guessed, or maybe I knew, just from her presence that she was the other Vampiress that he was playing with. I, now determined not to become just another game piece for his amusement, wondered at her situation. Were we somehow fundamentally different? Or only situationally? I moved to the doorframe as she passed the room, watching the other woman as she followed the trail of discarded clothing into the moonlit garden. If I had known that were there, I wouldn't have been in the library in the first place. I rolled my eyes and turned, suddenly tired of postponing the hated necessity of my admission to greater Vampiric society, and ready to make my appearance in the parlor.

I turned and took a step and managed to somehow nearly embed myself in Briant's chest. I looked up at him, and he must have seen something in my eyes, as he put a reassuring hand on my shoulder, as if to say, it's all right, you won't be an awkward child forever. I felt him give me a gentle push in the general direction of the parlor, and not willing to delay any longer, I went.

When I entered the parlor, my back was straight, my chin was up and my hands were steady. It's not that I wasn't nervous so much as it was that my anger made me honestly not care what these people thought of me. I was here and they were going to have to deal with me and accept my presence. I had no where else to go, and there were only three people I had to please, myself, the Mistress of this place, and Briant, who certainly seemed to be much more than simply a butler. I would watch these people, first for that, as anyone who believed that our "butler" was simply a household servant was a fool and therefore not worth my time. But what would I look for next? It had been explained to me at length that the morality that I had been accustomed to at home would not hold up here, in greater Vampiric society. Personal relationships were a morass of entertwining sexual experiences with this one or that one or both at once, alliances constantly shifted like the currents in a river and it was even odds if at any time things would remain friendly or turn spiteful, all while lying quietly underneath a calm and polished veneer of politics and manners.

I saw instantly that of the three groups in the room, there wasn't a single one that would have room for me. While not at all appearing to be exclusive, it was fairly clear who was with whom, and who was willing to take on another person. The three on the nearest couch, for instance, had and would make no room for a fourth person. A very close group, I would guess at a familial relationship, however such a bond was formed between the three of them. The other couch, much nearer to the fireplace than to the doors had a couple standing behind it, the man looked concerned and a little suspicious; the woman had a cool and calm assurance about her that stated everything would be all right, or at least everything that concerned her. I could almost be envious, and thought that maybe, I would have a chance to feel out that couple first. Because the Mistress of this Sanctuary and her partner certainly didn't seem to want company. She was carrying out her duties to her guests with great grace and aplomb, but you could tell, or at least I could, that she really wanted to be somewhere else, alone with the dark-eyed woman at her side. I sighed and settled myself near the ornate chair that stood before the massive fireplace as the centerpiece of the room, and waited. I was in no hurry; I found that I had rather a lot to think about.

Whether or not I was correct and the presence of Vampiric powers had some kind of ties to our still human emotions, the simmering anger I continued to experience was certainly having some kind of effect on me. I could feel the changes perking through my system, the heat of it gathering in some areas, and simply coursing through others. One of the areas that seemed to be gathering heat or power or whatever it might be and holding on to it, I was delighted to find, seemed to center right beneath or behind my sinuses. Which only made sense to me. I had read a little about Eastern religious theories and knew a bit about chakras; at least I knew where they were. So there was something to all that, was there...I would have to start looking in to such things...and developing them. Fortunately there was a library right at hand, and I had ahead of me an eternity of nights to spend in it.

***

Love in the Jungle

Author: Bianca The Bloody

Date: 09-01-04 12:18

Davis led his lover through the back doors in the parlor. They would not retreat back to their room for their little excursion. That did not bother Bianca in the least. She just wanted her moment alone with her beloved.

"Where are we going, my love?" she asked. He glanced back and flashed a quick grin at her.

"Anywhere you want..." he said, teasing. Bianca gave a short laugh at the thought and immediately took the lead in taking herself and her lover to the conservatory.

Once they reached the room, they saw the beautiful exotic plants that showered the room. In the middle there was a small seating area, complete with two couches, a small table, and two wing-backed chairs. Bianca lead Davis to one of the couches in the room and sat him down.

Once he was seated, she climbed atop his lap, straddling his legs, and kissed him ferally on the lips. "I want you, my love. I only want you for the rest of our days." He smiled and gently kissed her chin.

"I am yours forever..." he whispered.

Reaching her hands up his shirt, she began to undress her lover seductively, kissing each inch of bare skin that was slowly revealed to her. She could hear the soft moans that escaped Davis' throat. She knew he was enjoying the attention that she was giving only to him. It was going to be a wonderful moment for Bianca as well. Even though she still desired the touch of her Mistress and Cassandra once more, nothing would ever give her true pleasure and happiness like her beloved sire.

***

The Complete Hostess

Author: Vampiress Belladonna

Date: 09-02-04 15:39

"Good evening," Belladonna said to the vampire on the couch with Vladira and her chylde Elsa. "I am Belladonna, and this is Cassandra. Welcome to Crimson Kiss Manor."

Just then, Belladonna noticed a young vampiress had entered the parlor, and looking quite shy -- not a common trait of their species -- settled into her chair by the fireplace. She seemed remarkably uncomfortable for an immortal guest in a Kindred Sanctuary. Belladonna decided to add her to the round of introductions.

"Greetings, Sister!" Belladonna called over to her.

"Please come and join us."

The woman turned toward them.

She still appeared a bit hesitant, despite Belladonna's friendly welcome.

Belladonna smiled reassuringly.

"I am Belladonna, and this is my dear Cassandra," she said, inclining her head toward the vampiress whose hand she held. She then pointed casually around the parlor to the other guests present. "These three on the sofa are Lady Vladira and her companions, and the couple standing over there are Sutter Kane and his consort, Samantha Bouvier. Come... meet more of your Kindred."

Even after six years as a vampiress, Belladonna still occasionally used human expressions. She almost added the cliche "we don't bite" to allay the girl's timidity. But that, of course, wasn't true -- they DID bite -- so she simply concluded with a friendly grin.

"Welcome to Crimson Kiss Manor."

***

Good Evening to All: Meeting Lia

Author: Vladira

Date: 09-02-04 19:18

It was wonderful to see Belladonna again. Joining us were Cassandra, Sutter Kane and his consort, Samantha Bouvier. We had met with each other the night before, when I had arrived at the new Crimson Kiss Manor, but, it was still a pleasure to see an old friend again. She introduced JeanClaude, Elsa and myself to a young woman named "Lia".

"Tis a pleasure to mee you, Lia. This is my consort, Count JeanClaude Minot. And my chylde, Elsa von Spielburg." I said, smiling.

JeanClaude nodded slighty to her, his french accent quite pronounced. "Au chante, Madmoiselle Lia."

Elsa was a bit more enthusiastic. "Hi!" A broad grin spread across her face. I half expected her to jump up and embrace the poor thing. But, she managed to show great retraint.

"My mother, the Countess Yvain, should be with us shortly." I said, softly.

As Lia found a place to sit, I could see Elsa looking at Lia. I wondered what my chylde was thinking. I could sense some of her thoughts, but, I whispered to her to behave, and she calmed.

As we waited for others to join us, our goblets of wyne were served. JeanClaude handed me one, then Elsa one. Elsa looked down into the goblet, her expression one of puzzlement. She watched me take a sip of mine, then JeanClaude had sipped some of his. Elsa slowly brought the goblet to her lips and I saw her tongue slip slightly into it. As she tasted the wyne, she found it quite enticing, and she sipped. She had finally begun her path to full enjoyment of the night as we all talked.

JeanClaude had slipped his right hand behind me, and gently rubbed my back. I closed my eyes slightly as I sipped again. I knew he was eager to enjoy our night together, as we had our plans. I wanted to see how well Elsa could hunt. But, JeanClaude wanted just the two of us to enjoy the night together. He had mentioned that it had been a long time since he had a chylde. I even offered him a chance to have Elsa, even if it was for a short while, but, he refused, politely.

I knew we had the chance at meeting others of our kindred, I only hoped that Amneris would recover soon, and Viya would as well. My friends were dear to me, as were my family.

***

Au Chante....

Author: JeanClaude Minot

Date: 09-02-04 20:47

Vladira and Elsa both sat as we all began to talk. I handed them their goblets of wyne, as we were all being served. Elsa seemed to have her doubts about the wyne, but, she eventually found a liking to it.

As Belladonna introduced Madmoiselle Lia to each of us, she seemed a bit nervous. Elsa seemed a bit eager. I was finding her to be quite a bore and neusance. But, my beloved Vladira obviously needed her. Our little "Ace in the hole", so to speak.

As I sat down next to Vladira, I gently caressed her back. The backless dress she wore was enticing. Her smooth skin was so soft. I could feel her tremble a bit as I touched her. How I longed to have her again this evening. Just the two of us, but, Vladira had other plans. She wanted to see how well her chylde could hunt.

I looked over at Elsa, and she seemed a bit tense, and eager. I decided to do something about it.

"Pardon Moi. I must speak with Vladira's chylde for a moment, in private." And I held out a hand for her. As she took it, Vladira looked puzzled. I leaned forward and whispered to her.

"We shall return in a bit, Beloved. Please do not discontinue your conversation with the others." And I gently kissed her on the lips. She smiled and I left with Elsa.

As we walked to her bedroom, I had her close the door and lock it. She wondered what was going on, and she would find out.

"Elsa, you are out of control. Why?"

She shrugged. "I don't know, JeanClaude. Something inside of me is wanting to get out."

As I looked at her, I knew she needed to be calmed. I knew Vladira would forgive me for this, eventually.

I pushed Elsa against one wall, and stared into her eyes. She looked at me, her gaze back at me was strong, but, there was something else. I had begun to realize what was going on with her. A great hunger, not only for the crimson wyne, but, for more. She was becoming out of control, and was needing to be calmed.

I tore her dress open, she gasped. The tattered material hanging about her, she only stood staring at me. As I held her chin in my right hand, I could feel her tense. Her body trembled.

I picked her up and pushed her onto her bed. She only looked at me, ready to scream, but, I stopped her before she could.

"No Elsa. You will obey Vladira better."

And I removed my shirt, then opened my pants to her. She stared at me, as she propped herself up on her elbows, her breath hard.

"What do you think you're going to do, JeanClaude? I could very easily call for Vladira." She whispered.

I shook my head. "Go ahead, Elsa. You need to be disciplined."

I pushed her back onto the bed, and looked down into her eyes. Her face became a mask of puzzlement, then horror, then, complete lust. She was unstable, and I knew it.

I fell upon her, she at first denied me access, then, she gave in, only after I removed the rest of my clothes. Pinning her to the bed, my shaft was ready. It wasn't like it was with my Vladira. Elsa was quite different. I could feel the tightness, her body trying to fight, but, it was so easy.

"No...no JeanClaude." She whispered. Then, her tone changed. "Vladira's passion is for you. I can't deny the...the...."

Her sheath becoming slick, she moaned, and cried out. She started to move with me. I had found her enjoyable, only slightly. She needed someone else. Whoever he, or she, could be, she was in need, and soon.

***

Meeting Someone New

Author: Sutter Kane

Date: 09-02-04 22:34

"I am Belladonna, and this is my dear Cassandra. These three on the sofa are Lady Vladira and her companions, and the couple standing over there are Sutter Kane and his consort, Samantha Bouvier. Come... meet more of your Kindred. And welcome to Crimson Kiss Manor."

When Sutter head Belladonna mention Samantha's and his names, they raised their wyne glasses toward her and the rest of the Kindred and approached the gathering. Once there they both smiled genuinely and openly again meeting the Countess Vladira, her consort, Count JeanClaude Minot and her chylde Elsa von Spielburg. The group for the most part was centered about a� timid - as there was not a better word really, young Vampiress named Lia.

The conversation went as expected here and there and then suddenly, "Pardon Moi. I must speak with Vladira's chylde for a moment, in private." Said JeanClaude Minot. The man was French as his pronounced accent clearly marked him as such. Sutter and Samantha both smiled politely as JeanClaude departed with Elsa� up the stairs� Turning his attention back to Samantha for a moment, he whispered a sweet nothing into her ear and enjoyed as she broke into a smile and gave a small laugh and then looked into his eyes with a sparkle in her eyes.

Turning his attention once more back to the young Kindred Lia, he asked her a direct question, "Tell us luv, from where in this little blue white orb do you come from?" The question was sincerely asked as Sutter had an interest in travel and enjoyed talking to others who were form various places from abroad. And as he waited for her to answer he wondered if when she related this tidbit of information if he had been there or not. Samantha was also interested in her answer as this was the first time she had been out of Europe itself.

***

to make a move

Author: Union

Date: 09-03-04 11:26

The last tentacles of humanity held Union from vanishing into the catacombs of darkness when the beast came forth. He glared out of the beast's eyes, yet for the moment had no real control over what the werewolf would do.

The beast stalked, circled the gardens knowing its prey lay just beyond its grasp, with the soft glow of the mother hanging so high above within the heavens. The scent of her, her craving, her wants seeped into the beasts heart, and it wanted to devour, needed to devour, to feed as its kindred had fed for so many years, however it was unable to do so. Something hidden within it, something small held it at bay, the beast growled, wanting to be released.

But Union did hold it at bay; as he forced the werewolf to stand upon its back legs and wade pass the roses, and low limbs of a small maple, to look directly upon the girl. She smelled of fear, and of lust, she smelled of breeding�

Union could feel his own needs rise, his membrane already becoming erect, his body, the werewolves body was ready for the release it needed, and then with a speed few could match he leaped forward landing in front of her. Strong hands gripped the girl as he slung her over his shoulder, if she screamed the beast did not hear it; it never heard the screams of those it claimed. And with a rush it vanished with Narcissa through the foliage and into the dark.

The beast loped along, the world spinning past them in flashes. It finally came to a stop and tossed her down. She was unsure of things now, the beast knew it, but the man forced his will, forced the beast to recede, and Union managed to transform back into his weaker side.

Narcissa gathered herself and was standing, as he approached; there was a chill in the air, like the world as waiting on what was to come next. But instead of the beast, the man placed a soft palm upon her cheek, and gently pulled the Vampiress forward to kiss her tenderly.

***

A surprise

Author: Vampiress Narcissa

Date: 09-03-04 16:19

Before her stood the beast that was Union. She knew it was him, it was obvious it was him, and it was quite obvious her presence before him aroused him greatly. She gasped as he stood before her, his form much large then she had anticipated in his lupine form, taking a step back. What could she say to him that would force him to listen? She had no idea, but now was perhaps not the time to negotiate. She shuddered as she saw the feral smile upon his lips, but soon found herself being grabbed up quickly by his strong arms. A scream parted her lips, high pitched as she had not expected him to take advantage quite so soon, but just as quickly as kindred take their prey, he had taken her. Through the forest they ran, and although she tried to wriggle free, his grip was just too strong.

He set her down, and she could see the transformation already beginning. His struggle was still there, man beating back beast, the beast that was so ready to rip off her clothes, fulfill himself, then devour her flesh. She backed up until she was pinned against a tree, watching as the man came forward. She could see the torment in his eyes, the heavy panting, the craving in his eyes. She blinked and before she could even say anything, he pressed forward, pushing his own lips against her own in a passionate kiss. It took her by complete surprise, but she did not break the kiss. For her, it was not intimate, but more of a need, for him. She brought her hand to his forearm, and continued the kiss, closing her eyes for a moment before breaking it. She spoke softly to him as he pulled back...

"We are all here for you Union. Let us help you."

***

Familiar Faces

Author: Cassandra Belmont

Date: 09-03-04 16:56

It would have been a lie to say that Cassandra knew exactly what to say in front of the now large crowd of companions that had recently joined Belladonna and herself. She simply took a moment to gaze around at the crowd. After all, she had been anxious to meet new people.. now was as good a time as any to do so.

Naturally, she grinned as she laid eyes on her beautiful Belladonna once again, their hands still bound together. However, she was not an idiot, and knew that now was not the time to seduce her partner, particularly not in front of the growing crowd. She knew she could never understand just how hard it was to be a Mistress at such a wonderfully large manor, and so she thought it best to just let her be the hostess for right now.

She casually gazed over to the sofa next, taking a peek at the Lady Vladira whom she recognized from the original manor, and the young woman and man who joined her. The way the young man casually ran his hands along her back soon told Cassandra that he must have been her lover. Once again, her needy mind thought of running her hands up Belle's back, stroking her gently whilst removing her gown..

Yet she soon shook this thought away, for her own benefit as well as the others', and next decided to glance at the rather pretty young blonde woman who Belle had only just invited over to join them. Cassandra didn't really think she was "nervous", but she was certainly rather quiet. It made Cassandra think back to her own first arrival at the manor, yet she had not remained alone for long.. that was the night that she met her sweetheart, the Countess Varsuviya. Oh, Varsuviya... she had to admit, she'd almost forgotten her throughout this whole ordeal. She didn't even know where she was at this moment in time. She scowled slightly as she remembered Amneris.. she had no doubt anymore. She would have to.. speak.. with Amneris sometime in the near future, she told herself as she turned her attention back to her social group.

Before long, she smiled as she noticed a few familiar faces wondering towards the crowd: none other than Sutter Kane and his elegant consort Samantha. She asked herself what had happened to them the night before, but simply gave them a nod of recognition as they approached the crowd. Sutter gave her his charming grin and Samantha a simple smile as Cassandra turned to face them, deciding to get to know them a little better.

"Good Evening" she said in a rather polite manner, removing her hand from Belladonna's temporarily so as to talk to her new found friends better.

"I hope you had a pleasant evening yesterday" she said. "I have to say, mine was somewhat.." she glanced over at Belladonna temporarily, their eyes meeting for a slight second, filled with all the lust and passion that always seemed to fill the air whenever sparks flew between the two.

"Dissapointing" she finished, turning back to her companions.

"However, I hope this one will be slightly more enjoyable" she said giving them another small smile.

They soon turned their attention to the newer vampiress, however, and didn't really give Cassandra much of a chance to say anything else. So, she simply turned her attention back to the rest of the crowd, taking Belle's hand in her own once more.

"So.. what are everybody's plans for this evening?" Cassandra asked them curiously, taking a small sip of her wyne whilst awaiting an answer. It was only then that she noticed that now, Vladira's companions had left, and she was alone on the couch.

Yet this did not worry her. She would have plenty of time to get to know them better. For now, she was content just chatting to this crowd as she still waited for an answer.

***

Conversation

Author: Sutter Kane

Date: 09-03-04 18:55

"Good Evening" Cassandra said in a rather polite manner as she removed her hand from Belladonna's. "I hope you had a pleasant evening yesterday, I have to say mine was somewhat� disappointing. However, I hope this one will be slightly more enjoyable." she said giving them another small smile. "So.. what are everybody's plans for this evening?"

She was indeed a beautiful young lady and it seemed that Belladonna had scooped her up as quickly as a fisher-king, yet if Belle had not, then someone else would have by now.

"Good evening Cassandra." Sutter said giving her his customary charming smile.

"Good evening. And how are you this evening?" Samantha smiled genuinely to her as well.

Cassandra smiled back to them both and then answered Samantha's question. "I am well thank you."

"To be very honest, Samantha and I have no 'plans' per se other then to mingle among our fellow Kindred and perhaps enjoy some good conversation." Sutter said all with a smile upon his lips.

"The Manor is such a beautiful work of art and so exquisitely furnished and I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone better. And everyone I have met so far here in the Colonies are always so cheery, it's quite infectious you know." Samantha said openly as she looked to Belladonna for a moment and nodded.

"I'm sorry� the Colonies?" Cassandra asked inquiringly.

"Yes�" Samantha said with a smile on her lips as Sutter gave a small, humorous laugh, "the Colonies are what many Europeans still call what is now referred to as America. It's a hold over from when King George and his fellows' commitment to taxing the American colonies led to hostilities in 1775. But honestly, the past is the past and the present is so much more interesting don't you think."

Sutter looked over to Belladonna, smiled and nodded to her. "Belladonna." He said politely and nodded to her.

***

Socializing

Author: Vampiress Belladonna

Date: 09-04-04 08:21

"Belladonna," the Vampire Sutter Kane nodded politely, when finally finding the opportunity to greet his hostess.

"Mr. Kane," Belladonna smiled genteelly to him and his consort. "Ms. Bouvier. I hope you found your first evening in the manor comfortable."

Silently, Belladonna compared Sutter's formal manners to those of Sir Guillaume, and many of the other centuries-old vampires she had met since becoming Dahlia's chylde. Sutter's demeanor fit him like a badly tailored suit. While most modern immortals picked up a bit of the old ways from their ancient Kindred, Sutter's replete courtly praxis in attempted imitation of archaic European aristocracy had to be a conscious affectation. He was American, and could not be much more than sixty years old, at most, if he was the father of the young mortal, Ava Montgomery. Memories of sipping the woman's sweet blood made Belladonna's stomach growl loudly enough to be heard over the ongoing conversation.

"Excuse me; I'm afraid that I have been so busy preparing the manor for everyone's arrival, that I haven't fed in days." Though fully mature vampires -- say, those over a century or so -- could go weeks without fresh blood, a chylde like Belladonna needed to feed more regularly. Belladonna realized going any longer without nourishment could only interfere with her ability to concentrate upon her responsibilities. "I hope no one will think me rude if I slip out for a bite."

Belladonna turned toward her companion.

"Cassandra, My Darling," Belladonna smiled affectionately. "Are you hungry, too? Or would you prefer to remain here with our guests?"

***

A Bite To Eat

Author: Cassandra Belmont

Date: 09-04-04 13:07

"Cassandra, My Darling," Belladonna smiled affectionately. "Are you hungry, too? Or would you prefer to remain here with our guests?"

The sweet, honey coated words that spilled out of Belle's mouth made Cassandra turn towards her immediately. It was true that she hadn't eaten in days, and she certainly felt the need to satisfy herself at that very moment. After all, she didn't want to starve.

"Yes, I think I shall join you.. Mistress" she whispered, remembering just how much Belle adored it when she called her that. She nodded her head to all the guests and apologized for her early departure. However, deep down inside of her, it was obvious that she wasn't really that sorry.. after all, she was heading away with Belladonna, the beautiful mistress of Crimson Kiss manor.. what was more, they were alone.

And so they wondered off across the parlor, hand in hand as they had been previously, locking their fingers together, not wanting to let go.

As soon as they exited the parlor and left the large crowds behind, Cassandra gently pressed herself against the Mistress, pressing her firm lips against Belle's, slightly more passionately than she had done in the past. Even if she couldn't take her just yet, she still wanted to let her know just how much she cared. With that, she carefully ran her delicate fingers up her back, even caressing her cheeks as she could hear Belladonna moan slightly. When Belle removed her lips from Cassandra's, Cassandra didn't stop.. instead, her lips and tongue made a fuss of her smooth, slender neck. She could see Belladonna close her eyes, moaning slightly, whist Cassandra felt that immense passion build up between her legs..

She eventually pulled herself away from the Mistress, holding her to her for a brief moment afterwards.

"So... we shall hunt, yes?" she questioned as Belle silently took her hand in her own and led her down the rather empty hallway.

Cassandra still yearned for her, now more than ever, but she had taught herself how to wait. She knew what would occur later, and just the thought of their midnight erotica told Cassandra that she would be able to wait just fine.

***

Conversing With the Others

Author: Vladira

Date: 09-05-04 18:39

I had begun enjoying seeing old friends again. JeanClaude had taken Elsa out of the room, for what, only he knew. But, as I had the chance to speak with my fellow kindred, I was much more relaxed, and open about talking.

As Belladonna spoke to Cassandra about needing to get a bite to eat, I could tell she was famished. Her stomach growling said it all. I had know what it felt like to not being able to feed when need be. Vladmir having nearly starved me a few times, only to have me feed upon him so he could keep control over me. But, no more! His influence was gone, but, not entirely. Only a small amount remained. That was the part I could fight easily.

As I sipped on my goblet of wyne, I looked over at the fireplace, watching the fire. I could hear Vladmir's voice, faintly.

"Soon, my niece. Very, very soon..."

I only smiled and spoke back to him. "Drop dead, Vladmir. Very, very soon."

Then, I could hear one of the others speaking to me.

"Countess Vladira? Did you say something?"

I slowly shook my head. "Huh? Oh, no. Just remembering something. Memories are starting to come back a bit at a time."

Then, I could hear Elsa and JeanClaude's thoughts. And I knew what he was doing. He would answer to me later.

***

Conversation Of The Mind

Author: Samantha Bouvier

Date: 09-05-04 20:14

Samantha smiled her best secret smile as Sutter explained her colloquial term for the Americas to Cassandra. It was a slip, and she knew it. But it was not the first time since leaving the French Riviera. Sutter had been the perfect one to bring her over, she knew, but still so much apprehension seemed to surface when the room became too over crowded with 'others' like Sutter. No, she thought with another inner smile; like her. Like she was now.

She had to admit, she did enjoy meeting everyone, and in particular Narcissa had been wonderful to her and Sutter when they first arrived at the estate. And in truth, she loved the people of this country; for the most part; at least the few she had met in their travels. It was just that her body would not stop humming. It would not stop vibrating and she was unsure of what to do about it. She knew Sutter felt it, but he merely smiled at her and held her close.

She felt starved, and almost dizzy with hunger.

But honestly, the past is the past and the present is so much more interesting don't you think." Sutter finished and looked to where Belladonna conversed with others of the Kindred and nodded to the Vampiress, speaking her name. Samantha suddenly felt so suddenly thin and exposed. Trapped and wished she could escape back up to their room. But that would be rude, and Sutter would not have it. Not as they were guests at Crimson Kiss. It would simply not do to. And besides, there were other reasons she would not leave Sutter's side, but endure whatever was happening inside her body for a while longer, as long as her master was close by. There were far too many hungry eyes on Sutter, and Samantha felt the bane of jealousy rearing its ugly head.

She did not believe she could stand by calmly and allow Sutter to ravage another female. Though she knew if he so desired, she could do nothing to stop him, or interfere. He would not be pleased if she acted so childish, and�human.

She tried to focus on what she knew Sutter felt for her, and she for him.

When she had finished with Sutter's intimate needs earlier and he in turn had pleasured her in ways she always found amazingly erotic, he had handed her the diamond case from their luggage. She knew he loved to see her in diamonds. He loved the way they looked against her pale skin. And it was her pleasure to wear them, and display them for him. And when she had showered and began to dress in preparation for this evenings gathering, Samantha had done something special for Sutter, just before completely dressing in the sleek black dress he had selected for her to wear.

She had emerged from the privy in nothing BUT the diamonds. The diamond necklace dipping down between her twin breasts, resting against her cool flesh. About her wrist was the bracelet and earrings to match hung softly from her earlobes. She so enjoyed the way Sutter looked her over when she did things like this, as if trying to decide what he liked more. What she wore of what she was not wearing. Shall I wear anything else, my Lord? Or is this all you required for now?, she would purr as he lay lushly stretched out on his side on the bed, watching her as she moved about for him

The image fled and she shivered inside when Belladonna smiled up at Sutter and tilted her head in his direction. Samantha then felt his hand move slowly down the deep opening of the back of her gown, his fingers slipping just inside the delicate fabric above her perfectly sculptured bottom to tease her there. She quivered and pressed her hip to Sutter's, knowing he felt her restlessness. Samantha knew her place and fought to smile her most pleasant smile in Belladonna's direction, giving their host her due honor.

***

nothing changes in the beast

Author: Union

Date: 09-06-04 06:51

"We are all here Union, let us help you." The beast growled within, it needed no help, it wanted no help; he was what he was. The look upon Union's face changed from calm to cunning just before he slapped Narcissa across the check sending her sprawling in the soil, and before she could move, the beast bellowed forward, slamming into her forcing her face down as the inhuman strength pinned her arms down. Union fought the beast for a moment before giving in, for deep within his own heart he knew he needed this also.

"I need no help little one, but you will when I am finished." He spit, his voice already changing from that of the man, and then he ripped her clothing. Parting her legs the beast then entered her from behind. Like the demon of his soul, he thrust forward; he cared nothing for her screams, but only for the warmth of her, and the lust that drove him.

***

The raping of the mind

Author: Vampiress Narcissa

Date: 09-06-04 13:31

The sting of his slap reddened her pale cheek as she fell to the side, on all fours, quickly bringing a hand to her face as she looked up to him in horror. Now was the time for flight or fight, and her instincts told her to fight back. She ripped her fingernails across his face, but it made no difference as he was quickly on top of her, shoving her into the ground. The first stitches had started to tear, shredding off her body piece by piece as she attempted to get out from under him. Her hands gripped the ground but he was pulling her back, propping her up and tearing the skirts from her waist.

"Union! No!!"

He had her propped up on all fours, his hands now lengthening into massive paws that kept her duly pinned in place. She closed her eyes as she could not move beneath his massive form, his words cold and calculating before he finally thrust himself inside of her. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she started to sob from what was happening. If Guillaume knew she was being raped at this very moment, he would see what violence was being perpetrated against her, but what if he thought she wanted this? Perhaps, far away, he could sense her fear and turmoil from this very moment. One thrust deep inside of her, and he let out a growl. Two and three more, keeping her pinned before him, his growls started to turn into dominating howls, his lupine form taking over. Each struggle from her only encouraged him to thrust harder against her, feeling the furred flesh against her backside. The length of hardened flesh continued to penetrate with each animal thrust, forcing her face and hands into the soft earth, she muffled through cries, begging him to stop.

"Please Union, please stop. I beg of you..."

***

Receiving Line

Author: Vampiress Belladonna

Date: 09-07-04 08:12

The two vampiresses stepped out of the manor and down the stairs from its grand entrance hand-in-hand. They had not yet crossed the lawn when Belladonna stopped and sniffed at the dark forest breeze. An odd grin brightened her face.

"Cassandra, my Darling," Belladonna chuckled gently. "Do you remember me mentioning that bit of trouble we had last night?"

Cassandra glanced at her, surprised to hear her speak so jovially about an incident in which another Kindred was reportedly injured.

None the less, her smile came to match that gracing Belladonna's face.

Seeing that, Belladonna continued. "I am always amazed by the power of our essence. Last night's 'bit of trouble' has already returned... far sooner than I expected." Belladonna again sniffed at the air and added, "Though, as I did expect, she has come back alone."

She squeezed Cassandra's hand and led her toward the trees. "Come my Darling; let us go greet Officer Ava Montgomery."

***

Out of Place

Author: Lia

Date: 09-07-04 09:04

I was feeling more and more left behind and unnecessary by the second. As soon as I opened my mouth to speak, it seemed that someone else spoke over or just before me. Hating myself for it, I stopped even trying and took on the role of "little girl lost." Soon enough they'd loose interest and I could go to the library, pick out a stack of books and then go and hide in my room. Only one thing was still bothering me. As inconvenient as Mistress Belladonna's stomach had proven to be for her, it had reminded me of the same necessity. I was hungry, and now that I was aware of it, my hunger seemed to take on a life of it's own, circling endlessly and worrying at it's own tail like a restless dog on a too-short chain. I sighed. I could guess at what was wrong with me, I'd had my suspicions even before having left home, even before my first hunt. I'd been unceasingly hungry, my parents had fed me more and more often as the months since my turning had passed. My guess was that, raised on only thier blood, however supplememted with the fresh blood of thier victims, had not provided me with anywhere close to the amount of nutrition, of nourishment that I needed. And still, I was always hungry, I had gotten used to being constantly hungry, indeed, if I were not actually on the verge of starving, I rarely noticed it anymore. Saitey, much like the sun at noon, was fast becoming a foreign experience, and a shadowy and distant memory. What would it be like to gorge myself until I could not hold another drop? To feel so full that I was reluctant to move? To feast until I had to stop or risk some kind of a rupture?

I sighed, ready to leave, but not wanting to go alone...I didn't know anything about the area, if by myself, how would I know what places to hunt and what places to avoid? Where was I likely to be noticed and where were the pickings likely to be poor? Of course, the others were just as new to the area as I was, but with many years more experience than I, they would be more able to think on thier feet and sniff out the richest hunting grounds. I would simply be lost in an unfamiliar city, and the prospect of leaving the Manor, going on a fruitless hunt and returning only tired and hungrier than ever did not sit well with me. Perhaps, someone would suggest something on thier own, or should I propose to do so? I did not, want to go anywhere with Vladira, she was sitting there and talking to nothing, a trait which did not readily express "friendly" to me. Of her two companions, I would be reluctant to leave the room with either of them, the man just didn't seem...right...somehow, and the girl...well, when I'd obeyed Mistress Belladonna's summons to join them, she'd begun wriggling around and crossing and uncrossing her legs looking for all the world like a five-year-old that desperately had to pee. I was semi-aware of what her problem was, and it really put me off. Sexual arousal was one thing, and quite acceptable to me, after all, as long as you didn't make it my problem, I don't really care what you feel. But Elsa's lack of decorum and further, the display of her lack of discipline I found to be a little gauche.

I suppose that I may have been a little hard on her, she was even newer to this than I was, and I clearly remembered running through the house and touching and smelling pretty much everything that I could get my hands on, but soon enough, I had firmly taken control of myself, and began to tighten my grip on my new senses and my mastery of them. But perhaps that was just me, perhaps I was just more...reticent.

I never have been a big fan of public displays, in my little home town of Coffee Pot Landing, Minnesota, at the headwaters of the Mississippi, we in some years got quite a lot of traffic from canoers and kayakers and eco-tourists, and so I had been exposed to many different kinds of people, and thier many different ways of expressing themselves and thier relationships with each other. And while I understand the impulse, nothing seems quite as disturbing as a complete lack of control in public. Holding hands, and a peck here and there I don't mind...but I don't want to watch you crawl down your girlfriend's throat. Elsa seemed exactly the type to open wide and then moan loudly simply for the attention it would generate. I could be wrong though. Time would tell, and we would see.

That, however, left only Sutter and Samantha as possibilities. Which created it's own problems, of course. I have to admit that I was rather intimidated by Sutter, and that every time my eyes passed over him, even if just on thier way to the beautiful woman at his side, she looked at me with such hostile intensity that it made me even more uncomfortable, even more unwilling to try and broach the subject, any subject with him. I was more afraid that she'd tear me to pieces than I was that the wolfman would.

Ah, misplaced anxiety....where have you been for the last few moments? Almost, I missed you.

I sighed, and turned away, setting the untasted glass of bloodwine down on a small table, prior to leaving the parlor and holing up in my bedroom for the remainder of the night. I looked into the depths of the glass, trying not to be moody...it wasn't thier fault that I was just an insecure little girl, trapped in a society that I couldn't understand. I had no frame of reference for the many things that were happening to me, for the undercurrents that were rife in every exchange among them or for the long and dark lives that the majority of them had led. What could I offer them? A moment's amusement as I made some embarrasing faux pas? Rolled eyes and jokes about my youth, my naiveté and, at the last, becoming no more than someone's toy, as Elsa appeared to be? It wasn't something that I could or would ever accept, I would rather make my own mistakes than someone else's. I needed guidance, where would I go to get it? Where could I go? I have only myself here.

As of last night, the only hope of success and a long life lay in the Manor, in what theses older Vampires and Vampiresses could, if they would, teach me. And even then, I would have to sift through what they taught, ekeing out of the details of thier lives what I would need to know for my own long-term survival. Because I plan to be around for a long time. There is simply so much to see and to do, and even if there wasn't, if I were the type to just lay down and die, I wouldn't be here in the first place. No one has to become a Vampire. I had heard my parents calling me and I had responded. I could have turned my back and let everything go and just died that night...but it's just not in me to give up so easily. I loked back down at the glass of bloodwyne that I had sat on the table. My hand was still clutching it, and so I raised the glass to my lips. The taste of the blood mixed with the alcohol I found vaguely unpleasant, but not impossible. It didn't make me keel over and immediately vomit as I'd been half-expecting, although I found that it somewhat ruined the taste of the blood. Not something that I would choose to drink, although I suppose that it had some purpose. Probably I would never like the tase of alcohol, with blood or without, but it wasn't something that I couldn't get past, if necessary; and in spite of the taste, I suppose that it would be possible to sustain yourself, or at least to fight of the edge of hunger by simply sipping one or more glasses of the blood-fortified wine. However unpleasant that might prove to be. The downside to such thoughts was, of course, that they brought my mind back to how hungry I was. I would simply have to speak to them...perhaps if I approached Samantha rather than Sutter, the woman would cease to be quite so hostile?

I turned, and once again nearly planted myself face-first into someone's chest. I hurriedly jerked backward, and felt myself teetering rather unsteadily on the heeled sandals that I was wearing. As I felt the reassuring presence of a hand at my waist and another at my elbow, both of which were keeping me from the floor, I looked up, and I just knew that I was now in even more trouble. Looking down at me was the lazily smiling countenance of Sutter Kane. And not far away stood Samantha Bouveir, whose eyes were now as cold and as hard as her diamonds.

***

Dreams of Blood and Cruelty

Author: Damiana

Date: 09-07-04 13:00

She woke late, unrested, and still alone. Apparently it was going to be something that she would have to get used to once again. Rolling over, she sighed. Her dreams had been filled with thoughts of the human male, who's name she still didn't know, and unsurprisingly, violence as well. She had made a promise to the hapless Ava Montgomery, and in spite of what had followed, she bore the woman no ill-will, and had every intention of keeping that promise. The man who had attacked Ava would be punished, punished often and unmercifully, especially as Damiana now found herself part mistress of both of them. How much more would it undermine his confidence to see Ava put before him, above him as the favorite? And to what depths would it drive him to love Dami and care only for her regard, to want only to please her and to be able to do so only by submitting to whatever humiliating tortures she chose for him, to undergo whichever degradations she chose for him in front of Ava, with her status as pampered pet?

And how would such a demotion in status, from the once self-fulfilled and self-sufficient detective to the now needy and approval-craving pet affect Ava? She who had always relied on herself, who had pleased only herself? How would she adjust to being nothing more than a pawn in Damiana's game with the as yet un-named male? To be stroked and petted when it would do the most good for her mistresses purposes? To be rewarded for good behaviour with treats, and to have her misconduct punished by...

Damiana grinned to herself. Now there was an idea...the male could be Ava's whipping boy. How long would it take to bring her in line if she saw that her bad behaviour bore as it's consequence more punishment for the male? And as a part of breaking him down, why not give him her own name, or no name at all? Or better yet, have Ava re-name him? Of course, she would have to re-name him something appropriate...or risk the enaction of her mistress's displeasure upon him. This could turn out to be quite worthwhile.

She got out of bed, bathed and was ready to join the company in no time. She wasn't at all worried about her brother, undoubtedly he'd rejoin the company when he was ready, as long as he was safe within these walls there was no need for her to be concerned for his welfare. All she would have to worry about would be her own entertainment...

***

Misplaced Concerns

Author: Vampiress Laura

Date: 09-07-04 13:17

This isn't supposed to happen here! Laura protests silently, laying immobilized in her bed in the Sanctuary known as Crimson Kiss Manor, as the unseen stranger sets the sharp wooden stake against her breastbone and raises the steel-headed mallet. Laura closes her eyes as the hammer descends, but feels the point split two ribs and tear through her heart to protrude out her back and into the mattress beneath. Her eyes snap back open as she gasps what she is sure is her final breath.

Laura inhales raggedly and releases an unsteady sigh. A nightmare... it had all been just a nightmare. Funny, though, that the pain lingers in her chest.

Movement to her left wakens Laura further. She turns her head to see her Sire and lover, the Vampiress Violet, propped up in bed next to her.

Violet's concern is written upon her lovely face.

"It's alright, Mommy," Laura assures her, using her most intimate term of endearment for Violet. A Sire, after all, is essentially a Vampire's immortal parent. "I think I just had a bad dream."

***

Passionate sunshine

Author: Davis Santiago

Date: 09-07-04 18:29

She was a beauty that far outweighed the beauty of any he had come into contact with before. He remembered a dark haired slave from long ago, a Venetian beauty that always begged for his seductive touch, a girl that he plucked from the cobbled streets of the village. She was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen, up until his recent marriage to Bianca, but she was just another meal after a while. The coven he was with only wished her as a slave, while he craved her as a chylde. But there was nothing he could do...her fate was sealed one evening, when he found her lifeless, and drained corpse by the barn where most slaves were kept. He would have wept, except the feelings of lust he had for her overwhelmed him. One last night with her, one last time as he found himself craving the cold corpse that lay on the ground. It was the darkest secret he kept to himself, that one night of pleasure with her lifeless body...

His focus turned back to Bianca as she stripped him of his clothes, his mind remembering that night. He ravaged her...as he would ravage Bianca, slipping her own clothes from her body in a torrent of guiltless pleasure. He was on top of her soon enough, his tongue tormenting her body as he pleasured the flesh of her pert nipples. Suckling each one with strengthened pressure, his hand found its way between her legs to add pressure to the wanting and wet flesh. He growled as this tease continued, finally impaling himself upon her. He held her wrists tightly in place as he forfeited himself to her seducing ways. Each thrust was filled with carnal lusts, each growl that of her lover, her own moans of passion swelling between the both of them, until finally he exploded inside of her, shuddering as the muscle tensed and relaxed inside of her wanton body. He lay against her, exhausted as he whispered to her.

"You are my only one sunshine."

***

aftermath

Author: Union

Date: 09-08-04 07:14

Union was lost, the man was cornered within the darkness of the beast, the werewolf, the taker of all it wanted with no shame. Her cries went unheard, and when finished the lupine's call into the night echoed the release it had needed.

It left her there, upon the forest floor. And after it backed away, the beast sniffed the air currents for a new source of release�food, and with a wicked laugh it withdrew allowing the arrogance of the man-beast to come forward.

"So little one who need's the help now?" the harsh voice asked, "I should feed upon you, but�" Twisting his neck side to side it cracked harshly in the still night air, "I think I will save that for later."

***