It was like some bad dream that you suddenly wake up from and pinch yourself to see if its real. The odd thing about this was that Jennifer had received a call at the same time as Amelia did. Amelia went from being her bubbly and buoyant self, to dropping the phone and standing like a statue, frozen from what she had just discovered. At first, she didn’t know what to do. William was enjoying patting her snake and getting rather up close and personal, which was cool, cause Rattles was very affectionate..for a snake. Amelia went quiet as Jennifer asked if William could take her to the funeral. Course, Amelia would want to go, but then she realized that Lysander would be there and her heart sank even further. For the longest time, she had tried to get over him, and then course he ended up with her niece, which always made family functions awkward. Amelia had driven herself into her work, focusing on cases and basically living at the office. Only recently had she decided to move out of a bed sit and into her own place, her own space. She was just getting back on track with her life….now this.

Amelia knelt down to pick up her phone off the rug, and then looked at the details for the funeral arrangements again. Amelia let out a sigh, and then tossed her phone haphazardly back on the love seat in among the cushions. She put on a brave face, trying to keep any tears from falling, desperately keeping up a cheerful outlook. She came up to William, and said.

“Here..let me take him and put him back in his tank, and you can both go get ready for the funeral.”

She didn’t say how she knew, why she had the call, or the fact of her relationship with those involved. Amelia felt so alien from it all. But…there came a knock at the door, and Amelia was ready to pick up the bat and whack whoever was behind it. Thinking the better of it, she approached the door, and opened it, her mouth falling open to see Melinda standing on her door step. Half taken aback Amelia tried to keep composed, and then swallowing the rising tide that was coming up her throat, as her cheeks became red and flushed, she moved across the step and embraced her sister in a hug of comfort, whispering in her ear.

“I’m so sorry.”

<3>

Jennifer smiled sadly at William and leaned into him. “You’re truly the best,” she said, holding on to him. It didn’t cross her mind that he might want to be there anyway to watch out for Galtem. He was just doing her a huge favor by going to the funeral of someone he barely knew that would have people he did not like there. But William was always doing his best to protect her so of course he would want to go.
She looked up at Amelia when she took the snake and told them they could go get ready for the funeral. Jennifer realized it was pretty soon and she was still in the clothes she had thrown on this morning before visiting Galtem. That seemed ages before, but it hadn’t been so long ago. Then she realized that Amelia’s text must have been the same as hers. This confused her for a moment. She wondered how Amelia knew River and what connections she had here.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door and her questions were answered a moment later when the guest walked in. It was Melinda. River’s mother. Jennifer doubted Melinda would know anything about Jennifer. It didn’t seem like the kind of thing you would bring up to your mother, but she also didn’t know if Melinda and River were really close and if they talked about that sort of thing. It made her a little uncomfortable, but Amelia and she seemed to have a tight relationship, so they must have been really close friends. Or possibly related. It seemed like an odd pair to Jennifer, but she would be surprised if she saw anything normal around here anymore.
“Maybe we should go change now,” Jennifer said to William, not wanting to intrude on this moment. “I’m so sorry, Melinda,” she said quietly as she stood up, not sure if it was weird or not for her to speak as if she knew her. Maybe that would weird her out. But she doubted she cared about anything but her daughter right now.

William smiled when Jennifer said he was truly the best.
“Anything for you.”
He was here for please her, but he also wanted to make sure Galtem wouldn’t get closer to Jennifer, there was no need for make up some argues and fights, especially in a funeral. So William would make sure he wouldn’t get too angry with Galtem, as long as that guy didn’t bother him, everything would be fine. He also began to wonder if Galtem was going to bring the Vampire as well, that was insane, werewolves doesn’t get along with vampires, and now bringing a vampire to a funeral where mostly people are werewolves, that’s just some stupid a idea, but an idea we all know it could come from Galtem.
His eyes went up to Amelia who was telling him that she would put the snake back on its tank, and they could go get ready for the funeral. He was about to give her the snake, but someone was knocking on the door, and that made Amelia go see who was. William just stood up, and walked over the snake’s tank, placing it down inside, before close the tank. Making sure everything was right, his view turned back at Jennifer, who now was telling him they should go change now.
“Sure.”
He replayed as he began to walk after her, and on the door there was Amelia hugging another woman, somebody that Jennifer knew as well, but not William, he just stared at them with some awkward smile, since he didn’t knew what was going on. But this woman was definitely family from River, so of course, William was going to be polite, and have a smile that would show how sorry he was for her loss.

112 – Amelia Reed

Melinda keep hugging herself a bit, till finally somebody open her the door, and it was definitely her sister, Amelia. She stared at her for a couple of seconds, wanting to just tackle her, and hug her. She needed some comfort right now, after this all. Dealing with a depressing Lysander wasn’t easy either, because he was always distant, and it would take you a lot to just call out his attention.
Whenever her sister finally hugged her, Melinda allowed herself to cry again, and wrapped her arms tightly around her sister, hugging her closer, while shoving her head down into her shoulder, sobbing quietly. She was glad she had her sister back, at least she would have another support from somebody. It was far from her mind to think about Henry and have his support. She still wanted that guy far away from her, even tho she knows she will have to face him in the funeral.
It was on that moment Melinda noticed that Amelia wasn’t alone, there were other two people in here, a man and another woman. A blonde one, that was very familiar to Melinda, but she couldn’t remember where she saw this face before, but it finally hit her mind. It was the same woman who was there helping with her wounds whenever she got attacked by the werewolf, Alexander. She still has the all scars over her arm, that’s the ugly memory from the attack.
“Thank you..”
Melinda mumbled, as she pulled herself away from her sister, and began to wipe her tears.
“I just wanted to know if my little sister was really here. I should go..Lysander probably needs my help on dressing the kids.”
Melinda managed to say with some weak tone on her voice, as she rubbed her own arm.
“Amelia, I know this might seem much to ask. But now you’re his neighbor, and he will need lots of help on raising those two babies. I just ask you to check on him, time to time, there isn’t any need to be everyday. I just don’t want him to do anything stupid.”
Melinda said, knowing very well the bond her sister had with Lysander. They dated before, and Lysander fell in love with her niece, which was something very awkward in the family, and it probably left Amelia hurt, because she was trying to get over him, Melinda knew that. But still, she couldn’t spend her whole time in this neighborhood, it took her a lot to come here from her house, and she wanted some time alone for herself as well.

626-Lysander Manzenli

Lysander got in his chambers, and placed Eric slowly over the bed. He was glad that they had already bought two outfits for a girl and for a boy. They wasn’t sure what sex the baby would be, so they just bought this, till they could go buy more clothes. Now that’s something Lysander needs to do alone. He picked up the outfit, which was a blue romper for winter. It was thick, and it was enough to keep a baby warm. He began to dress the new born with that clothing, and while he dressed him, he could already hear Halle crying. Huffing out, Lysander finished dressing the baby, and made sure he would stay in the middle of the huge bed, so he wouldn’t fall.
Then he just went to Halle’s bedroom, and picked up a pacifier placing it inside her mouth. He picked her up, and rocked her on his arms slowly, so she could calm down and stop crying. In her bedroom, there was a closet with her clothes. He held her on his left arm, and used his right hand to search through the closet for something for her to wear. He found a pink dress, then some white shirt, and white long socks, then some black shoes. He picked up those clothes, and started to dress Halle once he went back to his bedroom, and placed her on his bed. After few minutes, the children were finally dressed. He never thought it could be so hard, but it was done, and luckily for them, they fell asleep.
He went to the bathroom, took a quick shower and done his beard. Once he was done with that, he began to dry off his skin, and went back to his bedroom. He looked through his closet, and saw his black suit. It only took him ten minutes to get himself ready, and ties with him wasn’t a problem, since he was already used to wear them.
Now he had another problem, which was to put the kids in the car.
He had everything he needed, he had the chair for the newborn, and Halle’s chair was already in the car, all he had to do was just place the newborn chair on the passenger seat that was besides him. He needed a baby carriage, he had one but it had only space for one baby and not two. Which meant he would have to carry Halle on his arms and Eric would go on the baby carriage. And that’s what he did.
He finally left home, and went to his car, preparing the baby chair on the passenger seat, and when he made sure everything was safe he placed Eric in there. Then in the backseats, he placed Halle’s in her seat. And in the backdoor, he closed the baby carriage and put it inside to fit in the car. He was done, but he was still waiting for Melinda. Wondering if she wanted a ride.
He leaned his back against his car, and folded his arms in front of his chest, as he stared down at the ground, getting a bit lost in his thoughts.

The wetness of her sister’s tears upon the nape of her neck, had Amelia feeling all kinds of emotions, as she was swept up in the sorrow of the news of River. But also the reunion of the sisters was something she also needed. Amelia hadn’t meant to keep her distance and turned into a workaholic, but it seemed to be the only way she could cope with losing Lysander to her niece. Amelia sniffed loudly, when her sister finally let her go, and then realized she still had company; William and Jennifer. Thankfully William had place Rattles back in his tank, so that was one less thing to worry about, but she felt it right to introduce them to Melinda.

“Sis, this is my neighbour Jennifer and her boyfriend William. They were welcoming me to the neighborhood when we got the call.” She said we, since Jennifer also got a text message from Lysander. Amelia didn’t know if Melinda knew them or not, but thought it right to make introductions. Amelia’s head tilted, her pony tails flicked out when Melinda just was checking to see if her little sister really was living in the Rivet condos complex.

“Yeah, finally got myself out from Mrs Gardner’s bed sit. Kinda got over not having freedom to do my own thing, or being harassed for staying out late.” Mrs Gardner was much like a bitter old spinster, something that Amelia was terrified of ending up as. Her luck with men, was abysmal. On the word that Lysander would be needing help with the kids and the fact Amelia was living so close, Amelia became uneasy, and rubbed the back of her neck. Clearly the wounds from the failed romance still ran deep, but she then sighed thinking that these children that were now without a mother, should be given care and understanding, by their relatives, regardless of who their father was.

“I guess, I can…baby sit…and stuff.” she said awkwardly, not really being into kids herself, for she gave up on that dream a while ago. She looked at the clock and saw the time and then quickly said to Melinda. “It’s getting late, shouldn’t you be heading to the funeral now?”

<3>

The coach driver knew the rocky road that would take the couple far from Harroway Village and out of the reach of Selene’s parents. Joffrey looked back as the lights of the township started to fade into the distance, and he then sat back in the comfortable plush velvet seating, drawing the curtain closed, so it gave Selene and himself more privacy. With his Selene nestled close to his chest, and she was actually letting out a contented sigh, Joffrey himself started to relax at last. He knew this was a bold and outrageous move to be making, but in his eyes, he was just saving his parents the trouble, and once the union was sealed by the giant, there was little to nothing anyone could do. Joffrey reached for a fur that was laid on the opposite seat and draped it across them both, gently kissing the top of Selene’s head.

“I have so much making up to do, for everything I have put you through.” He said, loud enough for her to hear, as his hand rest upon her stomach. “Your parents may hate me all the more, but I care not for what others think now, only you.” Joffrey drew her closer to him, and kept her warm beneath the fur, as the coach trundled along the rocky road to Olaf’s temple at the top of the mountain.

<3>

Selene smiled softly and closed her eyes, reaching one hand down to clasp Joffrey’s. She knew they could spend hours begging forgiveness from one another, but that’s not what she wanted. Reaching down to caress her stomach, she murmured sleepily“You have nothing to make up for…I should never have doubted you, my love.” She fell silent as she recalled how angry he was and how he revealed his demon to her. The very thought got the baby within to go insane. Wincing in pain, she frowned slightly “Ornery little thing…” Turning her chin up, she smiled gently and began to nibble along Joffrey’s jaw affectionately. She did not want her love to worry about how he had treated her before. It was in the past and she knew she had forgiven him the moment he took her in his arms back at the inn. All she wanted was to be his alone. Sitting still once more so she did not provoke him sexually while he was trying to be a dutiful husband, she thought about her parents. Sure, they would be upset but at least they were married, right? Joffrey was the father of her child, they were in love, and they were engaged as it were. Now everything could work out. Squeezing her dark prince’s hand gently, she whispered “Father will forgive you. He wants what is best for me, and that is you.” With that, she fell silent once more and cuddled against Joffrey under the fur.

Metia remained quiet on the bed, she didn’t moved an inch, not even when Henry was out of the bed and already dressing himself. It was on that moment she knew she screwed it up. He was now looking at her in a different way, and for some odd reason that made her heart ache. Was he lying when she said she was the most beautiful woman? That he couldn’t adore or love any other woman but her? Was he just using her? She thought she would always have his love, and now she began to wonder why was she even caring about this. Why was she even caring that he loved her or not? Probably because he was the only person out there that could make sure she wouldn’t destroy herself by thinking she was ugly. It was actually thanks of him, that she always had this big confidence of herself at times. If Henry liked her and her body, she thought she could make any man fall in love with her, and that she would never look ugly. But now the tables turned, and Henry was upset.

When he said “Arrange for Selene to be taken home when you wake. After that…I may call for you.” a tear quickly fell down from her eye. And all she could hear next was the door closing, which meant he left the room. She pressed her palm against her face, covering her eyes. Why was she even crying for an angel? But she did had to fix this. She had to find a soul to take, and quickly. Then she had to talk out with her husband, and apologize him for her behavior, that she was just extremely tired and stressed due Selene’s situation. But little did she know her daughter right now was running away with Joffrey. But it was clever from Joffrey doing that, because Metia was certain she didn’t wanted Selene to have that baby. She allowed herself to fall asleep thanks to the crying and how tired she was.

She was probably sleeping for a hour or something, and whenever she woke up, she picked up the same old brown dress, and her fur. She dressed herself with those clothing, even tho there was a servant saying he had already her Queen dress, but she didn’t wanted such thing, for now. She went to Selene’s room, and began to knock the door. Nobody answered her, which made her open the door, and for her shock, her daughter wasn’t there. She just began to panic around, and yelling at the people inside the inn, wanting them to tell where her daughter was, but nobody knew. This was only making Metia’s dark heart to ache even more. First it was her husband leaving her, now her daughter? But maybe she went with him? Even tho he told her to bring Selene home after her waking up.
Metia was worried like hell, but the thought on going after a soul right now was invading her mind again. She quickly left the Inn, even tho some servants tried go after her, but she ordered them to leave her alone, and she would just use some horse that was there. She just ride the horse around the village, and after few minutes, she found a beautiful woman in an alley, of course she took that chance to kill the woman right there.

Jumping off from the horse, Metia walked closer to the woman, and with her strength, she was able to grab the woman’s neck tightly, and slowly lift her up from the ground, her feet wasn’t touching the ground anymore. Opening her mouth, we could see like some white cloud coming from the woman’s mouth and going into Metia’s mouth, that was basically the girls soul. It only took her seconds for do this, and she dropped the dead body on the ground. This was just enough for change her skin color, and not look so ill, of course she was still skinny. But she would get better, if she took another soul, however, that could wait for now, since the only change that was needed to be made in her body was her weight.
Jumping back on the horse, she just made her way back to her kingdom, so she could meet up with her husband again, and make sure if her daughter was with him or not.

((Thread change))

The Carriage finally came to a stop, with the driver pulling up hard on the reigns, and the horses snorting and braying, for they were fearful of what they could hear up ahead. Joffrey was awoken as the carriage shunted, and then stopped moving, and he pushed open the curtain, seeing the blazing torches of the Mountain temple entrance. They had arrived, and by the lit torches, it meant that Olaf was in residence. This was indeed a good sign. Feared by many of the people of Night Lands, Joffrey had managed to strike up an unusual friendship some years ago with the Giant. Since that time, Joffrey had often come to pay tributes to Olaf, and listen to the many tales, of those that had ruled the lands, before the dawn of the ages. Joffrey gently shook Selene, and smiled at her, his eyes showing a bright glistening of red, as he opened the carriage door.

“We’re here.”

Stepping out of the carriage, he offers Selene his hand, as from deep within the temple, there was the low roar of the Giant himself.

“FEE FI FO FUM…..I SMELL SOMETHING AND ITS NOT MY BUM!”

“Ahahahaha. witty as always Olaf. Tis I, Joffrey of the House of Brax. I have with me my future wife, and I wish you to do the honors to wed us.”

The Giant emerged from the Temple, simply enormous, and his appearance would scare away the bravest of Knights, but to Joffrey, he was simply adorable. The Giant looked down at Selene, and then sneered;

“Mind if I have a prod at her…I promise to be gentle.” he said, licking his lips. Joffrey chuckled and then wrapped his arm around Selene tightly and wiggled his finger at the oversized Giant. “No, I already did that and she is with child.” Joffrey was now as proud as punch about the fact he was able to prove his manhood, even if he didn’t get to…you know.

“Spoil my fun, wee Prince Joff. Hmmph. Well…alright, bring her in, and I do the ceremony. THEN I PROD AT HER!”

Joffrey laughed and then sighed as he led Selene inside the temple.

“He’s such a kidder.”

<3>

Selene woke up gently as she was prodded, giving Joffrey a sleepy smile. “We’re there already…?” His red eyes were a bit foreboding, but she stepped out of the carriage calmly. “Where are we…?” Looking around, she then jumped as she heard a loud voice. Looking at Joffrey frantically, she stepped closer and grabbed his arm. As Olaf made his appearance, Selene could only stare at his massive form. She hid her face into Joffrey’s arm until she heard Olaf speak. Stepping away from Joffrey towards Olaf, she frowned and pointed a finger at him “I will prod you right between the legs!” Her stomach began to hurt and she winced, her eyes flashing a bright red. Glaring daggers at the giant, she put a hand on her belly and tried to calm down. Rounding of Joffrey suddenly, she shoved him “Oh that’s real nice! What a romantic way of putting it!” Spinning around on her heels, she stormed off towards the temple. Keeping her distance from Joffrey, she shot him another look “Where are your pretty words now…” The demon seed was clearly having his own fun within his mummy.

A burst of light shone down through the clouds, as Sir Wayne stood holding his horse, waiting for hours now for Calypso. But what got the Knight’s attention was just who was soaring in from the direction of the Night Lands. It was none other than the King himself, and oddly with very little on. The Angel swooped down from the heavens, though his face looked dark for some reason, running on landing, his wings still beating, he slowly came to a stop, folding them back behind himself. His muscles gleaming and rippling, and Sir Wayne stood silently patting his horse. Something, was indeed wrong.

“Sire…where is your horse?”

“I..decided to take a more scenic route home.”

“Ah…then Welcome home, M’lord.” The Knight raised his fist to his chest and bowed, as the King approached him. His face was stern and he asked the Knight;

“Has the Queen returned, with Selene?”

“No, Sire…I have been standing here many hours, and there has been no one but the stable hands.”

The King’s face was ashen, and he nodded but once. Then said; “Calypso won’t be leaving today, as soon as Selene returns from the Night lands, she is to be cared for by the Queen’s personal servant. You may go about your normal duties. I know you are still injured from the tournament, and I think its wise you have time to recover.”

The Knight appeared confused by all this, but didn’t question the King.

“As you wish, Sire.” The Knight then led his horse away back towards the camping grounds, where his staff would be more than happy to see him return, while the King stormed inside.

<3>

The festivities had long since past from the day, and now sir Arthur sat in his “throne” as you may call it, which he has held as champion of the Knight’s Tourney since sir Wayne had left some time ago, of course, before his wife had died. He could still scarcely believed it. He was no fan of goody too shoes, but no matter how many times he tried, Ambrosia always managed to grow on him. Her new nickname fit her perfectly. It was a shame that such a beautiful person had to leave this world so soon, and the sun would shine a little darker from then on.

Sipping from his golden goblet of wine, still fully dressed in his armor, but his wings had been allowed to sheath., he watched as the king re entered the courtyard. He had had his eyes on Sir Wayne for some time now as he stood about, obviously awaiting something that never showed. He watched their conversation, and could see the worry on the kings face and the confusion Sir Wayne held in his posture. this brought a level of curious thought to Arthur’s mind.

As the Knight made his way back to his tent, Arthur stood and moved to intercept him with a few mighty leaps to close the distance just as the knight was entering his tent. “Sir Wayne…a moment…if you please.”

Metia was finally able to arrive her castle, it was like hell riding this things, she never thought riding a horse was so hard. Well, she spends her whole time stuck in the castle, doing the Queen’s duties, and it isn’t really the Queen work to be on a horse, that’s why she had a hard time on getting used to it.
Reaching her castle, she jumped off her horse, and asked a servant if her daughter was here with her husband. They only said the King had returned but not the princess. Metia gasped, and felt like someone was grabbing her heart and squeezing it hard, doing the same with her lungs, and making her unable to breathe for seconds.Oh god, she didn’t knew why she was so emotional today, but tears was already coming back in her eyes, leaving them red, but she still didn’t allowed a tear to slid down. Why wasn’t her daughter here? Where was she then? Joffrey didn’t took her away, did he? Anger and sadness was filling Metia, once more.
She rushed inside the hallways, trying her best to find her husband, she had to warn him about her daughter being missing. And she finally found him, through the hallways as well.
“Henry!”
She shouted, having a shaking tone in her voice.
She picked up the edge of the horrible brown dress that she was wearing back in the inn, and ran towards him. She first bowed her head, since she was afraid if he was still upset with her from what happen back in the Inn, then she looked up at him with her watery red eyes.
“Our daughter..she’s gone..She wasn’t in the inn when I woke up. I thought you took her with her, but the servants said you was the only who returned not Selene.”
She was trying her best to be calm.
“I want my daughter back.”

The King was standing inside, with many servants now around him and fitting him with appropriate attire. His wings were on full display behind him as he held his arms out and then was dressed by the young servant maids, who did their duties wordlessly. The King’s expression was…unreadable. It was as if he himself had changed, but of course the reason as to why, would come to be discovered later. As the servants finished, they all stood back and bowed to the King, as he stood with raised head, staring out the nearest pane glass window. It was then the shout of Metia reached his ears, and he turned around slowly, not showing an sign of smile of welcome.

“Henry!”

“My Queen?” He simply asked the question, a paleness in his eyes. He looked at her in the same brown dress and fur, but her colour and life had returned to her cheeks and skin. That in itself made no sense, but what she said, made things a whole lot worse.

“Our daughter..she’s gone..She wasn’t in the inn when I woke up. I thought you took her with her, but the servants said you was the only who returned not Selene.”

He strode across the floor, his hands curling into fists as he stood and looked down at her, his words said with a firmness, and there was no love or powerful sonnets.

“You were instructed to bring our daughter home from the Night lands. Of course I returned on my own.” He started to walk around her slowly, and listened as she struggled to be calm. “I want my daughter back.” Course she did, she always got what she wanted. But not anymore. The King came to a stop, and then snapped his finger for a messenger. The messenger came in on bended knee and the King said;

“Send word to the King of Brax that our daughter, Selene is missing presumably with that son of his, the Prince somewhere in Night lands. Tell him, I want them found, and if they are not found….I will declare war.”

The messenger bowed and scrapped, then ran out of the castle, his wings opening out behind him, as he took off into the sky. With that being said and done, the King then silently left the room, and the Queen to her devices.

<3>

Juliette walked along the row of flowers slowly, wearing a black and blood red gown that accentuated her curves well. Her skirt was in her hands as she moved, her bare feet gliding over the fresh earth as her fingertips reached out to touch the petals. The gardens really were lovely, especially this time of year. As she mulled over the family breakfast, she frowned. Why could she not accept her fate? The demon despised the fact that she had to live off of blood and the negative feelings of others like the lowly vampires. She was a Roxburg, and such an act should be beneath her. And yet, here she was, feeding off of the flesh and blood of men. Pausing, she crossed one arm over her body as she reached out to stroke a carnation. Why was it so difficult to embrace their way of life? She knew her father expected better of her, but she felt so torn. The Roxburgs were so consumed with looking inward to their egos and expanding a kingdom that never belonged to them that they seemed petty, selfish, and failures to Juliette. They would never gain control over the humans. Not with fear. The Roxburgs would fail and Juliette did not want to sink with them. Frowning more, she watched a pair of ravens fly overhead. She was spending too much time in cathedrals. She once held a high regard for her demonic family and now… It all seemed so wrong.

While contemplating how she would even survive her family, Juliette heard the vile familiar voice of her mother. Turning around slowly, she faced the demon matriarch head on and looked into her eyes. “Hello mother.” Staring her down, she smiled faintly. Bess was everything that Juliette ought to be. She was so proud and sure of her demonic background, and she certainly didn’t take shit from anyone. Why couldn’t her apple fall from that tree? Stepping towards her, she bowed her head politely and continued quietly “I know I am a disappointment to you and father. Just the look on your face gives you away.” Turning away, she ignored her mother’s question and continued to touch the carnations. Good riddance. “I don’t know what to tell you. Perhaps you ought to just discard me and move on with the plans you two are so carefully planning.” She spoke bitterly, but she highly doubted her mother would offer any assistance with her embracing her demonic nature. No matter how much she wanted to…

Juliette stood behind a couch, her body leaning over it as she whispered in a cruel tone “Then get your arse in here…”Raising an eyebrow as the door was opened, she looked upon the face of her blood doll. She would never admit to it, but he really was drop dead gorgeous. Looking him up and down, she could smell another woman on him. Wrinkling her nose in disgust, she turned away. She could never allow him to see her jealousy. Speaking in a bored tone, she waved a hand to usher him further into the room “I don’t like to be kept waiting…” Swiveling around gracefully, she smiled coldly and crossed her arms. Her breasts were pushed up more, and the locket that bound her to him hung around her neck and dipped into her cleavage. “Do I want to know what you were doing? Isn’t it bad enough I’ve been saddled with you?” Glancing at a maid, she snapped “Start a fresh bath. I won’t feed off of him when he smells like that.” Turning to face Edward once more, she pursed her lips. “Undress me, and then undress yourself. You will cleanse me and as well as yourself of that harlot. You are my meal, after all.” Spinning around, she picked her long tresses up so he could unhook her corset, her slender shoulders revealing a tattoo of black wings between them as well as a rose on her lower back. Glancing over her shoulder, she raised an eyebrow coyly “Want to get a move on?” Juliette spoke sharply to Edward, but not out of true hate. She could never express how grateful she was for him saving her life. She was a Roxburg after all and would never allow her life to be in the hands of a blood doll. Still, he was handsome and loyal and the only man who showed her true decency. The demon tried hard to be somewhat polite to him, but feared if she were too nice, she would give him her heart. Edward must never know of her dark deeds, or Juliette feared he would never love her again.

“Do I want to know what you were doing? Isn’t it bad enough I’ve been saddled with you?” though her tone seemed harsh, Edward was no fool, and knew she cared for him more than she put off. It was in the way she acted, spoke, and looked at him…when, of course, he hadn’t just had sex with someone else. He loved her to bits, but a man has needs. He simply nodded his head like a good Blood Doll, and moved as was commanded.

As the maid drew their bath, he moved to her back. He lowered his lips close to the flash of her neck as he pulled her hair over her shoulder as to allow easier access. His warm breath wrapped around and caressed her skin tenderly. His finger tips lifted to her shoulders, and softly ran down to the corset on her back, loosening the knots tied one by one, slowly, as he moved his lips to the other side of her neck, his breath touching her yet again. Once finished, her corset opened to reveal her bare flesh, and Edward brought a finger to her spine crease, running it along the line of bone gently. His other hand gently pulled the corset from her body, and held it out for the maid, who had finished with the bath waters, to take and place where it belonged. Turning her by softly pulling on her shoulder, his eyes met hers in a lustful passion that only the love for a woman in the soul of a man could hold. His hands came to her long, lush, gorgeous hair, one of his favorite features of her form. As he held his eyes in hers in a seductive grin, he undid the front laces of her dress. Pulling them slowly as to loosen them correctly, and then allowed the thick and large piece of cloth to fall from her body. However, his eyes never left hers, except for a moment to glance at the pendant around her neck that bound him to her, in case the love he held for her was not strong enough. Taking it within his hand, he kissed it gently, and left her presence. Removing the loose piece of cloth he wore as a shirt and the classic black pants that fit to his long legs tightly, he turned to face her once more. His well accented body glistened with a light sweat that was the trademark of a mere servant or blood doll, since they were not kept cool and refreshed. Then his eyes fell to her own body. Slowly, the fell from her neck to the ample breasts upon her chest. From there, they found her slim and accented stomach, which almost excited him as much as her breasts. Then they fell to the real prize of her crotch. that was what got him up, and excited beyond all measure. Approaching her, his cock bouncing as he walked, he bowed his head and held his hand to the bath. “After you, Mistress.”

Once inside, he flipped her position so he was carrying her across his front as though bringing a bride across the threshold. The thought sparked amusement to him and he began to chuckle once more. Phoebe murmured in his arms and shifted slightly, but made no signs of waking up completely. Levi looked down at her for a moment before placing her down gently on the observation table. Brushing his hand over her forehead to keep loose tendrils out of her eyes, he thought it wise to let her come to on her own in hopes of not sending her body into further shock.

She looked peaceful as she lay there, and it seemed a shame he had to bring her to the manor so forcefully. Turning around, he grabbed a chair from the corner of the room and placed it next to the table. Sitting down slowly, he pulled out his lighter and began to fiddle with it. No doubt the peace would disappear when the woman came to, and he hoped for the sake of his nerves that his father would return home first. Sighing, he continued to watch Phoebe and played idly with the flame as he waited for his father.

Lailah stood before the magnificent doors of her friends’ manor. She used to visit almost everyday when she first came down but her visits shortened throughout the time. She was rather happy to be here at the moment, to catch up with her fellow angels. A maid opened the door from her and from the look on her face Lailah knew something was terribly wrong. She headed straight to where she believed Jonathan and Levi would be.

Doctor Bianchi’s Office- Observation Room

Lailah softly walked into the observation room only to see Levi there with a remarkably familiar woman on the table. She couldn’t be… Lailah thought. That woman could not possibly be Selene. Lailah gave Levi a kind smile and walked over to him, she gently bent down and kissed his forehead as if she were his own mother.

“Levi, how are you doing? And who is this?”

She asked with curiosity and looked down at the unconscious woman before them. It shocked her how much this young girl looked like Selene. She threw a side long glance at Levi and had a feeling that was why she was here, still her question hung in the air. She looked around the room, no angel doctor and no Mrs. Bianchi.

“Where are you parents?”

Juliette passed her mother without even noticing her presence, too caught up in the rejection from Agares. She was never as talented as Elvira when it came to bedding men, and the fresh confirmation of this fact sent her into a silent rage. Fuming, she passed through the doors of her bedroom and was about to let out a cry of anger when there were hands suddenly around her throat. Pinned to the wall, her instant reaction was to struggle and fight against her attacker. Letting out a growl, she then froze as Agares’ eyes locked on hers. Instantly she stilled beneath his touch, paralyzed in fear tinged with lust that was growing within her. She could see the desire behind his eyes but was still surprised when his lips met hers in a hungry demand. His hand slid up to hold her head in place, her skin prickling in awareness at the rough feel of his skin on hers. A purr vibrated in her throat as her eyes slowly closed, giving in to the feel of a more demanding male. The feel of his facial hair sent delicious tingles down her arms as they reached up up to grip his strong shoulders. Such a contrast from the smooth-faced submissiveness she found with Edward. This man was wild, untamed, and took what he wanted…and it seemed like at the moment, what he wanted was her. Thrilled at the demon’s desire for her, she flicked her tongue out in acceptance of his kiss, her nails scraping at his clothes.

As they continued their passionate embrace, Edward floated through her mind. Frowning against Agares’ lips, she pushed that thought down and bit down on Agares’ lip teasingly. Pulling back, she looked up at him with a small smile before it dawned on her. “Agares…” Her breath fanned over his lips as she understood who it was before her. Fear sent signals coursing through her body as her hands slid down to grip his chest. She was aware of her parents’ hatred for Lillian, and if she was caught in the arms of Agares, she was sure to be tortured to death. Her eyes locked on his as her sheer terror was palpable around them.“Get me out of here.”

(Underground Salon Agares’s Room)

“I-I-I’m not sure…sir. I came to alert y-”

Amos rose from his seat, instantly unleashing his demonic presence with a flash of flame that even his battle wear with it. Bare at the top, a well toned body showed with muscles that rippled and tensed through the skin. His lower was covered by simple dark colored rag like cloth to cover legs which became goat like at the ankle. His hair grew to the middle of his back, black in color. His skin turned purple and over it, green swirling tattoos appeared which glew with an unholy aura. From his back came his wings, wide spread and stretched. His eyes turned red and slited at the pupils, teeth turning to sharp, serated fangs. Large curved horns sprouted from his head. Over his back, was his sword. It was not named, like other blades, but did not lack in power compared to the others. He threw his desk with a roar, words being understood in a loud, deep, hellish voice. “You ignorant FOOL! I leave you with ONE thing, to keep an eye on my daughters, my son, and my wife and home. Yet you fail at even this!” The servant girl shivered in fear and fell to the floor as tears flew from her eyes like waterfalls. “sir! I thought it best to catch you before th-” Again she was cut off, but this was due to the direct contact between her and Amos.

With the raising of his hand, Amos levitated the girl into the air, and pulled her quickly towards him. The smell of urine and the movement of bowels forced him to grimmace. “Your usefullness has ended.” The words were soft, but said with a deadly coldness. He curled his hand into a ball, and every single bone in the girl’s body shattered, her screams of pain echoing throughout the manor, then were cut off as her skull even fractured in on itself. Dropping the body to the floor, Amos moved from his place, stepping over the body with hooved feet. “JULIETTE!” The name was screamed loud enough to be heard within the walls of the house, and even out, if there were not magical barriers built within it’s foundation. As he walked through the halls, only demons would see his truest form, unless he wanted others to. With no answer, he roared another name as he stormed through the hallways of the house. “AGARES!!!” Still no answer This time, it was a full fledged roar followed by the grabbing, and ripping of a servants head from it’s shoulders. Then, with another roar, he grabbed a second servant, forced his clawed hand into her chest and ripped out her heart, bitting into it when he reached the Foyer. “BESS!” He spoke the name with a mouth of flesh, and though it was not anger aimed at her, his rage was ever so present in it’s sound. “NONE SHALL SURVIVE! NONE!”

Ezekiel arrived at the front gate, a grin on his lips. Tapping his knuckles on the gates, he waited for them to open. After only a moment, he was walking towards the front door, a grin on his lips. He could see another man at the door, waiting for it to be answered. “Ah, it seems today is the day that everyone visits to Roxburgs! Wonderful, it means the house will not be boring today!” Coming up behind Az, the wrath demon grinned widely and crossed his arms over his chest. “Ezekiel here. May I ask your name, or would you prefer to remain anonymous to me?” He stood up on the steps next to the other demon, smirking widely. He was dressed in a full, formal suit – as was usual for him – and carried himself with a certain confidence.

Normally, at this time, after having fucked Juliette’s brains out after she fed from him, he would move on to another woman, normally the more respectable of the slave women of course. He may be ready to fuck anything, but he still has limits and respect for himself enough to stay away from the harlets. Besides, he always had the right words, and given by birth, the right look. However, it has been almost a week since the last time they’d had anything meaningful together, as Edward was still angry. His heart still broken, he refused to show her his love, his memories, doing lal he could to hold back in their meetings during the week.

He sat in his bunk, with everyone else off doing their own thing whether it be work or just fucking around, there was but a single candle lit, as he rested his eyes and entered his mind. He’d been this way the past couple of hours, though the screaming of Amos had stricken him from his head, he quickly returned to it as this was nothing new, though his words worried him in their intensity, which was uncommon during his rants. He was severely pissed off now. However, Ed brushed it all aside, and returned to his mind.

That’s when the knock was heard, and the door to the Slave room opened. In came a maid, who then spoke. “Edward. Are you here darling?” He’d recognize that voice anywhere. Latecia, a spanish servant whom had been a Servant to the family as long as he had. He had also been in her pants more than a few times, and yet, aside from Juliette, was still his favorite, in all aspects of sexual contact. “I’m here, Lahty. My bunk.” His voice was monotone, which brought a brow upward on the woman’s forehead, as it was unlike him to be so cold with her. She grabbed the candle as she walked toward him, setting it down beside his bunk when she reached him. Sitting at his feet, holding the letter in one hand, she placed the other on his thigh, and patted, then began rubbing softly. “Are you okay Ed? You don’t…sound like you.” Shrugging, he placed a hand over hers, the other resting beneath his head. “It’s always the same. Nothing will ever change. I’m a slave, she’s a lady. Thus anger replaces love in a heart full of nothing but.” exhaling softly through his nostrils, he he smiled and chuckled as Latecia fell over him, her body flat on his. She placed a kiss on his lips and handed him the letter. “Don’t get your hopes up yet Bambino. I read it. You are to dance, dress, and fuck to your wildest dream. ‘Tis a-” He snatched the letter, and placed a index finger upon her lips to get her to quiet as he used the other to open the note. Latecia nibbled on his finger as he read. “With Love? WITH LOVE?” Crumbling the paper in anger, he used his ability to generate electricity and burnt the paper to a shriveled ball, then to a pile of ash. Dumping it to the floor, he took his finger from Latecia and wiped the ashy hand on his bunk. “She sends love after telling me there will never be exactly that.”

Latecia had moved her lips to his neck after he took his finger, and it began to excite him, then he took this under control, but did not remove her from him. She spoke in between kisses. “Perhaps she….does not know….what she wants herself. So long as I don’t lose this..” *She grabbed his crotch. “I think you should show her this.” Edward chuckled, but thought of a better idea. Gently moving her off him, he leaned over her on a shoulder, his eyes falling into hers and his hand flowing through her long beautiful hair. “I have a better idea Lahty.” He placed a iss upon her lips, passionate and sensual, then removed himself from her presence. “I’ll be back before the sun rises, I expect to find you exactly where you are now.” Lahty laughed. “Of course M’sir.” With that, he left.

Outside Elvira’s room

It hadn’t taken him long to reach the door of Elvira Roxburg, the sister of his most hated beloved. He was contemplating whether to knock, since he knew she had been locked away without food. If he knocked, she could take him before he had a chance to explain himself, or she could have already eaten. Against his gut, he lifted his arm and knocked gently. “Lady Elvira. I request an audience for a humble servant of the Roxburg family.”

Fanny and Bartholomew had enjoyed hours of teasing and playing in spite of the chaos that was going on all around them. Every hour on the hour, Bart rang a bell for more food and drink, to be brought up, as they lounged around the Guest room, enjoying each other’s company, and telling awful jokes to each other.

Bart is laying on the bed beside Fanny, and rolls over saying;

“A man walks into a crowded local bar brandishing a revolver yelling “Who’s been screwing my wife?” A voice from the back of the bar shouts back, “You don’t have enough ammo, Sir!””

Fanny starts guffawing and snorting through her nose, as Bart roars with laughter, finding his own jokes rather funny, which in itself made her laugh all the more.

“Oh that is terrible….Wait wait…I have one. A left-handed maid servant reversed the order of the knives and forks on the dinner table. Her master, observing the mistake , reproved her. “Ah, true indeed sir,” said she, “and now would you be pleased to help me turn the table round?”

Bart screwed up his nose and then laughed so loud, you would think he would burst a button.

“Kitten..that is the worst joke I have ever heard!….Ahahahahaha! You win!” The pair started poking and prodding each other, laughing and the squeals from Fanny were getting louder…until….

“JULIETTE!” It was Amos, and by the sounds of things, he was one angry demon. Both Bart and Fanny lay perfectly still, continuing to listen for the blood curdling screams of Juliette. Maybe he was going to finally do her in? Then, they heard him again.

“BESS!” “NONE SHALL SURVIVE! NONE!”

Bart and Fanny suddenly looked at each other shocked. Fanny leaps off the bed and started to panic. “What did we do? I DON”T WANT TO DIE A VIRGIN!” she screamed. Bart suddenly had a wonderful idea.

“If we have sex right now…then, if he does come up to kill us, least….you can say you had sex first. Huh? Good plan or what?”

<3>

Previously…

Taking a deep breath, she shoved the dead husk from her bed and got to her feet. She padded naked to the water closet so she could cleanse her body. She released her hold on her illusion and the room returned to it’s destructive state. She felt rather than saw when Sally returned. She groaned upon witnessing the state of her room. “Miss Elvira, you know how your father gets when he has to send for the seamstress after one of your tantrums.” she heard Sally mutter. She dried her body and stepped into the other room. “I wasn’t in my right mind as you well know, Sally.” Elvira huffed, moving to her dressing table to brush out her hair. She watched Sally as she cleared away some of the debris from the sideboard to set down a tray of food. “Never you mind all that, come and eat. You need to be getting ready for the ball soon. Please tell me you did not destroy your gown as well.” Elvira moved to the table after slipping on her dressing robe and pointed to the wardrobe. Sally could see the ballgown that had been sent to Elvira still in one piece. “I suppose I could ask Lady Bess to borrow some accessories to wear.” Sally sighed, glancing at the broken jewelry littering the floor. Elvira snarled. “I want nothing from that woman! Do not even contemplate it.” Sally held up her hands before moving around the room to clean up the mess. “I do not understand why you hate her so, nor your sister for that matter.” Elvira bit into the meat on her plate, savoring the flavors that burst upon her tongue. “That is none of your business and I’ll thank you to never ask me again.” Elvira snapped, finishing her dinner. Sally nodded mutely before helping Elvira get ready for the ball…

Sally had been working diligently on Elvira’s hair and was just pinning the last curl into place when someone knocked on the door to her bedroom. Elvira caught Sally’s eyes in the mirror. “If that’s my mother or sister, tell them to bugger off.” Elvira scowled. Sally moved to answer the door when the house shook as if caught in a large earthquake.

“JULIETTE!” Her father’s enraged howls echoed off the walls, causing Sally to curl up into a ball on the floor and cover her ears. Elvira froze, in the process of adding a bit of color to her lips and cheeks. “BESS!” came a second shout, making the windows in her room vibrate. “NONE SHALL SURVIVE! NONE!” came her father’s enraged cries. Elvira turned in her seat. “What has that little tart gotten herself into now?” Elvira smirked.

Sally uncurled herself from the floor and got to her feet. “I do hope your sister hasn’t gone and done something foolish.” Elvira snorted and turned back to the mirror to add some rouge to her cheeks.

“Would serve her right, especially when Father gets his hands on her. He would make what he did to me this past week look like a walk in the park.”

Before Sally could answer, a voice came through the door, someone neither woman expected.

“Lady Elvira. I request an audience for a humble servant of the Roxburg family.”

Elvira whirled around in her seat, eyes as wide as saucers.

“What in the nine levels of Hell is he doing here?” she demanded. Sally shook her head and indicated if she should answer the door or not. Intrigued, Elvira nodded in the affirmative and Sally moved to open the door to reveal Edward standing on the threshhold.

“What is it you wish to speak to my Mistress about?” Sally asked, barring his view of Elvira with her own body.

Edward could hear the voices through the door, wishing so badly he had decided to simply walk away, especially when it was answered. “What is it you wish to speak to my Mistress about?” Sally spoke, as she opened the wooden door and stood before him. He did not know Sally well, and only spoke with her a handful of times..which was only ever hello’s and goodbye’s. Yet, he admired her devotion to Elvira.

Edward stood there, silent, for a few moments as he thought of the best way to bring up his request. He knew she had no favor toward Juliette, yet the request was a tall one. One that required delicate touch, and subtle tongue. “Evening, Sally.” He spoke as he bowed his head lightly, and continued while he rose it. “I was hoping to ask the Mistress if she would be attending the ball.” Pausing for a moment, his face looked painful as he spoke again. “Also, I was hoping…she’d…take me with her. If only as what I am, a servant to her family.” He kept stressing the word family in a gentle manner, as though he were directly defying Juliette’s claim to him. “I even offer myself as a feed. I offer a….certain quality that she may strike interest in….should it please her.

(Sorry for the length, wanted to get this one in before bed.)

As Az turned around, Ezekiel grinned and then made a sweeping bow. “My apologies, sir. I’m new to the area, I’m not familiar with many people.” Though by the mischievous glint in his eyes, he knew fully well who he was speaking to. He just enjoyed causing trouble and acting like he didn’t know the most obvious of things. After a moment, he stood up fully and placed his hat upon hit head once more. “Of course they do. I assure you, I am not weak. Perhaps compared to you, I am.” The demon paused, a thoughtful look on his face. After only a moment, though, he chuckled. “Though when looking at others, I am fairly strong. If I do say so myself.”

Shoving his hands in his pockets, the demon laughed and nodded. “Of course something wild is going on. It seems like something wild is always going on in their home. Ah, I believe that I shall wait alongside you, if you don’t mind. I promise not to bother you too much.”

Edward listened to the words Elvira replied with before ordering Sally to step aside.Plaything? Is that how she thinks of me? he thought to himself. After Sally sidestepped, he nodded to her quickly as his eyes fell upon his prize for a great choice of words. He surveyed her form with his eyes, and instantly was raked in to her beauty’s spell. He began to stutter a bit as he spoke, showing this. “M-Mistress, i-if it pleases thee…” Clearing his throat, he regained control of his words and fought the sexual attraction. “I request the great honor, and priveledge of joining you at the Masquerade ball tonight. If not at your side, then as a servant to demand.”

His eyes held hers strongly, as he spoke. Hoping the contact will give him a greater chance of succeeding in his current endeavor. He placed his hands behind his back, and folded them together at the fingers. “If a reason is requested….it is not something this one can give Mistress. All I can do is ask, and if denied, I shall return to my….most humble abode.” He stressed the word tightly, and meant it. Though perhaps she would deny him. At least he had something to entertain himself with in his bunk as he awaited Juliette.

With all the screaming, blood curdling threats, maids being ripped apart, angered husbands, and of course, the ever present thump thump thump of demons having sex, it seemed that a lonely zombie Butler would be lost in the thick of such madness. Hearing the polite tap at the front door, the ever faithful Lurch exits the kitchen, where he had been helping himself to a piece of Strawberry cheese cake, to do his duty as butler and (finally!) answer the door.

No one, could do as swell a job as Lurch, when it came to this task. And to those poor souls that had been waiting so long for this monumental event, Lurch would be a sight for sore eyes and weary feet.

The oversized zombie lumbered out from the kitchen, still with the butcher’s knife he used to hack a slice of cheesecake, when he growled inaudibly under his breath, and made it up to the front door, where he opened it slowly. He was a giant of a man, over eight feet and towered over the two gentlemen at the door. By the look of their clothing, they were dapper, and rather distinguished. They could have been Mormons, and if they were, there was a lovely noose that hung from the ceiling, that Lurch would pull, to activate the trap door to the pit of dogs, that only got fed every other Wednesday.

“Rrrrrrrrrrrr.”

The Door was held open, and now the guests could enter the Roxburg Manor.

<3>

As the door was finally opened, Ezekiel grinned and looked up. As his eyes met the large form that was Lurch, he grinned. “Hello, my dear fellow! Finally, someone has come to answer our pleas to enter the humble abode of the Roxburgs!” Patting Lurch on the shoulder lightly, the demon walked into the house, chuckling. He could hear all of the ruckus – it was always so fun to be in their home! Nothing was ever boring here, after all. “Someone’s been busy making a couple of bloody messes. Great!”

Juliette’s feet landed in the plant in the hallway near the front door, Agares’ transportation successful. Looking up, she ran behind the archway as she saw Lurch answer the door. Her lips brightened as she saw the zombie, her lips curling into a devious smile. As he opened the door and greeted the guest, she saw him wait for the guests to enter. Holding a hand up to cup her mouth, she poked her head out and called softly “Lurch….Luuuurch…come here, lovey…” Holding back a giggle of glee at her fortunate luck, she gripped the side of the archway as she waited for the butler to come to her. Her hair was a bedraggled mess, clearly a sign that she had just been rutting. Her white corset was tight and hugged her body, all the dirt falling off as though it were some sort of magical material. Lifting her hand, she crooked a finger enticingly towards him.

Lurch made a low inaudible growl as Ezekiel grinned at him like a Cheshire cat. His pleasant introduction, had the zombie raise an eyebrow, but what was even more troublesome, this guy was touchy feely, patting the giant zombie’s shoulder. Quite a feat for such a little man. Was he wearing lifts? The zombie allowed him to pass, then heard a sound coming from further down the hall.

“Lurch….Luuuurch…come here, lovey…”

It was Juliette, the one true flower of the Roxburg clan, or at least that is what Lurch liked to think. He turned slowly on his heel, and lumbered towards her, offering her the butcher’s knife that had wads of the strawberry cheesecake still stuck to the blade. Lurch gave her a lopsided grin, and wondered why she was such a mess. She was dirty…and not in a nice way.

“Rrrrrrrr?”

He was not big on conversation.

<3>

Juliette giggled quietly and put a finger to her lips “Shhh…shh…they musn’t know I am here, Lurchikins.” Looking down at the offered cheese-cake, she smiled impishly and flicked her tongue out to lick it. As she licked her lips greedily, her eyes twinkled as the petite demon reached up to place her hand on the giant zombie’s arm. “Now listen carefully, Lurch. I need you to fetch the pretty violet and black laced dress from my room. It is very important that no one sees me, understand?” Looking up at his giant coat, and idea dawned on her. Reaching her hands up like a small child, her smile turned innocent “Carry me in your coat to keep me hidden.” Stepping on her toes, she closed her eyes and perched her lips like she wanted to kiss him.

Lurch gazed down at Juliette with a near vacant expression. He really didn’t have a lot up top, and so her instructions weren’t exactly crystal clear. He growled in appreciation of her licking his butcher’s knife that had the sticky bits of strawberry cheese cake on it, and then dropped the knife in a pot plant, tip down when she asked;

“Carry me in your coat to keep me hidden.”

“Rrrrrrrr.”

It was going to be awkward, and the way she held her arms out to him, and made kissy lips, he suddenly had an idea, on how to get her upstairs unnoticed. Stepping back, he took off his coat, and dropped it on her unceremoniously, so the coat would pretty much cover much of her from view. He then picked her up like a rug, tucking her under his arm, and started off for the stairs, which he went up slowly, Juliette’s coat covered head was bound to bounce off the banister, as he reached the top.

“Rrrrrr?”

He looked left and right to see if someone was coming, swinging the coat covered Juliette around, then plodded off to her room, where he opened the door with such power, it nearly came off its hinges. Marching in, he then dropped the coat bundle with Juliette inside on her bed, and stared down at her with a sheepish grin.

<3>

Juliette had to bite back her scream as Lurch dropped his coat on her and scooped her up. She bit down on her bottom lip to keep from making too much noise as he carried her, but her head kept smacking into the banister as he was none too careful with his precious cargo. Soon he was busting her door open and plopped her on the bed. As she disentangled herself from the giant coat, she frowned up at him with a pointed finger “That was a very bad Lurch! You almost broke my door! Be sure to check on that….”

Juliette then stormed over to her mirror and pulled her dress off of it. Getting dress swiftly, she managed to tie the corset in the front. She silently congratulated herself on getting a dress she was able to put on herself. After fixing her hair and pulling on gloves, she looked at her reflection. She was an elegant queen of the night, but she was missing one thing. Looking to her vanity, she pulled on a silk black mask that was adorned with violet ribbons that matched her gown. Smiling slowly, she knew she was ready to meet Agares. Turning around towards Lurch, she lifted her arms again “Time to take me back downstairs. Be more gentle this time!”

Poor Lurch. He had really tried to do the right thing, and get her upstairs unseen by her parents, the guests, her brother, her sister, and her mother. He thought he had done a good thing, but then, Juliette started to wiggle her finger at him and tell him off.

“That was a very bad Lurch! You almost broke my door! Be sure to check on that….”

Well, the Zombie did have feelings and suddenly he burst into tears. Lurch was generally ignored by most of the household, even though he was very good normally at opening doors. The fact he nearly broke this door, tore into his decrepit heart strings.

He was such a sad sack, taking out his hanky and blowing his nose like it was a trumpet. Lurch’s shoulders heaved, even as he watched Juliette get changed into the beautiful ballgown. Sniffing and looking lost and forlorn, he then was ready to go and try to fix the door, only to have it come completely off its hinges. Looking left and right, he parked it to the side against the wall, and then looked back at Juliette again, who was now ready. But..there were conditions.

“Time to take me back downstairs. Be more gentle this time!”

Lurch nodded, and instead of dumping his coat on her, he swept her up in a loving embrace, like she was a doll, and proudly went to take her down the stairs. Only thing was….he forgot his coat.

<3>

The sound of Lurch’s sobs actually pulled on her heart strings. Frowning as he lifted her up gently, she nuzzled into his chest and sighed “I know you will fix it, you big teddy bear…there there…who’s a handsome good Lurch?” She began to snuggle into him, very much enjoying the fact that she was being carried like a prized possession. As they began to walk down the stairs, she sighed contently until she realized she was exposed. Letting out a shriek, she began to kick violently in Lurch’s arms until she was able to successfully jump down. Falling to the floor in a heap, she looked at Lurch with an exasperated look “That was not a great idea, Lurch!” Scowling, she quickly stood up straight and adjusted her dress. Looking to the pot near the door, she had an idea. Stepping over to it, she smiled slowly and shouted “Agares!” As if right on cue, she began to dissolve into the plant. Now she would be able to make it to the ball unseen.

(Thread Change to Ballroom)

For a moment, Juliette treated Lurch a lot like he was that all too good looking blood doll of hers, Edward. It was easy to see how Juliette could pour on the charm, like kerosene to a fire. The snuggles and the words of how good he was and a teddy bear, had him rattle his head from side to side, proud as punch to be carrying her down the stairs, like it was he that was Prince Charming, taking her to the ball. Oh, the day dreaming started for Lurch. Juliette, radiant in a sea of cheesecakes, and then, she kissed him with those sweet lips. He closed his eyes, and nuzzled the top of her pretty head, until….

She suddenly started kicking and leapt from his arms, only to fall into a huge heap at the bottom of the stairs. The look on her pretty face was so horribly distorted, as she showed him anger all over again.

“That was not a great idea, Lurch!”

She was yelling at him again. The poor Butler got worked up and wrang his hands, not understanding what he had done wrong this time. THEN she screamed another man’s name. “Agares!” Who the hell was that? Watching in surprise, Juliette vanished lock stock and hoop skirts, into a pot plant. Lurch scratched his head, and then knelt down and tapped the pot plant.

“Rrrrrr?”

But there was no sign of Juliette or anyone in the plant dirt. As he stood up, his foot knocked the pot plant and it tipped over, smashing on the floor. Oh no, he had made a mess. Bess, hated untidy things, and he quickly hurried to the broom closet, and opening the front door, he started to sweep the dirt and broken pot plant holder out the door, and into the garden, right under the roses, where the Gardner dumped a pile of horse droppings on it.

With that mess cleaned up, Lurch ambled back inside, shutting the door gently.

<3>

Elvira could see that she was having some sort of effect on the hapless Edward. His eyes seemed to be swallowing his face and he stammered part of his reply before semi-regaining his senses. “M-Mistress, i-if it pleases thee…” He had to clear his throat and Elvira mentally giggled. “I request the great honor, and priveledge of joining you at the Masquerade ball tonight. If not at your side, then as a servant to demand.”

She was impressed. He managed to keep eye contact with her despite the fact that her succubus’s aura was flared slightly half of her maximum level. She began to contemplate the pros and cons of taking him to the ball as she eyed him like some sort of specimen under a microscope. “If a reason is requested….it is not something this one can give Mistress. All I can do is ask, and if denied, I shall return to my….most humble abode.” She could hear the emphasis on the word ‘humble’ and it was as if a light had gone on in her head. The calculated gleam was in her eye once more. She got to her feet, the tight corset of her dress pushing her breasts up and out like plump, juicy watermelons.

She draped herself across the door, nearly pushing her bosom into his face. She trailed a taloned nail down the side of his cheek, careful not to break the skin, but letting him know that it would be a possibility in the future if he displeased her. “What’s in it for me?” she purred, her tone of voice dark and sensual. Like chocolate, silk and sin all rolled into one. She was seriously contemplating his request, if only to pull one over on her sister.

“RRRAAAAAAAAGGGGHHHH!!!!” another maid made the mistake of passing the Lord as he raged. Instantly, her body burst into flames and he grabbed her arm, yanking it wildly off of her form. When she fell, he brought his hooved foot to her head, and stomped on it. Blood, bits of skull, and brain matter flew everywhere in a ten foot radius. “I WILL KILL HIM FOR TAKING HER!” Her being his daughter, Juliette. Yes he wanted to kill her, yes he tortured her emotionally, and yes he he couldn’t stand her. Yet when push comes to shove, she is his daughter, and he’d rather die than see her harmed by any outside the family.

He knelt down to the lifeless body, his glowing eyes studying it like a new life form, something he’d never seen before. His clawed hands drug the tips of their fingers along it’s curves, along the delicate skin it held. Then slowly, he calmed, his mind focusing more on the object before him. When he heard his wife’s voice, he snapped his head over his shoulder, his eyes catching her form as his wings held open behind him. He stood then, turning his attention, and his body, to face her and hold her eyes in a cold stare with his own. Her words, however, were not going through as he studied her as well. Luckily, his mood had calmed, and his expression was just as fitting. Though that changed as he heard understood her final words.

“You…knew?” Just then, something snapped within him, and he stood for a long while, simply staring her down as though he were processing, still, what had happened. His face twisted with rage as he roared again, slowly stomping towards her. His eyes casting fire at her, not physically, but it’s what it would seem like as his mouth spat lava. “You knew he was here and you said NOTHING?! You knew she was speaking to him yet you did NOTHING?!” He roared and the glow of his markings intensified. “HOW DARE YOU COME BEFORE ME AND ACT AS THOUGH YOU HAVE DONE NOTHING WRONG! YOU KNOW THAT BEAST IS FAR FROM WELCOME, YET YOU DID NOT REMOVE HIM OF OUR HOME!” He stopped just inches before her. All he wanted to do right now was tear her to shreds with his own hands, his rage was so powerful he was having an incredibly hard time controlling this urge. “THERE WOULD BE NOTHING TO FIX HAD YOU DONE SOMETHING!”

That’s when his nose twitched to the smell of fresh dirt in the house…and something much more distinct of sweat and exertion dried upon skin. His attention immediately lifted from his wife, and he pushed past her as he stormed forward, leaving the bloody heap of the body behind. Making his way down the stairs, he saw the two guests that had been allowed in, assumingly by the butler, whose name Amos hardly acknowledged. His current form would come as no surprise to him, and he recognized both. Ezekial and Az, one a family friend, the other his nephew. In an odd and twisted way. He ignored them, however, and continued charging towards the source of the scent, where he found the butler, in juliets room, with a busted door, and fresh dirt upon the floor, as well as sex in the air. His eyes fell upon the butler, and his rage was released again as his focus shifted. He spoke his next words softly, but the seriousness in his tone never wavered. “Where is she?” His eyes dug into the Zombies very flesh with focus and rage. “Where has Juliette gone?” Looking to the dirt on the ground in her room, he noticed the pot directly above it. Rushing over there, he folded in his wings and leaned against the table as he sniffed at it. He could smell her in the area, and if she truly had fucked his greatest of enemies, or one of three at least, she would have betrayed him in a way a father could never forgive. though if she was running from her captor, hence the smell of sweat and exertion, he would embrace her. He instantly believed the second option, finding it difficult to understand that Juliette of all his children would betray him in such a manner. Leaving, running away he could understand, but not fraternizing with his greatest enemies. He turned to face the Zombie, and pointed a single clawed finger at the pot, his ten foot frame standing still. “There?”

Edward watched her stood, happily pleased with the fact that she didn’t decide to simply remove him of her presence. However, he could feel the aura she was setting off, and though it was strong, and he was addicted to sex, he was hardly affected…that is…until she stood and her bosom blossomed through her tight corset. His eyes instantly fell to it, and then rose to her eyes just as quickly. Gulping, he held his head high, avoiding any chance of sighting her breasts. He knew it to be disrespectful, especially for a servant, and he far from wanted that. Though, she made this even more difficult as she leaned against her door, and practically threw her breasts in his face, and now, it was simply a battle of will for him.

As her nail trailed his cheek, he could feel the sharpness of it’s edge, and the delicate nature it was held with, which forced another gulp and a spark to show in his eyes. This kind of stuff happened when he got nervous, or mad, sort of like a twitch. “What’s in it for me?” she purred, her tone being of both dark and sensual intent. Staying quiet for a few moments, he thought on his reply. “In return for granting my request…I shall grant Mistress anything she wishes of me. there shall be no bounds for what she may choose as payment.” Another spark as he fought the urge to look down at her chest.

Elvira couldn’t hide the smirk that formed upon her lips as he did everything in his power to not stare at her breasts as they were practically in his face. By doing so, he had earned her respect, although she wasn’t going to let him know that little detail. Oh no! Elvira had something much more…sinister in mind.

“In return for granting my request…I shall grant Mistress anything she wishes of me. there shall be no bounds for what she may choose as payment.”

Anything? Oh such delicious irony. Her sister’s dearest blood doll at Elvira’s tender mercies. Oh this was deliciously evil! She inhaled deeply as she thought over his request, her breasts seem to have a life of their own as they moved closer to Edward. He held such tight control, it wasn’t a wonder he would start to perspire. She exhaled slowly, her breath ghosting across his brow.

“So…” she purred, running her hands down her body as he stared. “…if I were to request…you never speak to, touch, think about or even breath about my sister…you would be honorbound by your word to do so?”

She was curious as to his answer.

As she closed the gap even more, close to pressing herself against his front, a single bead of sweat dripped from his temple, a strong sign that his own will had begun to waver. His eyes thirsted for her sight, his mind hungered for her image, his body yearned for her touch. It was a yearning that would soon be sated by a soft breath, gliding across the skin of his brow. Gulping, the muscles in his neck and stomach tensed at the strain they were placed under to keep his sight above her collar bone.

Her words, though, brought him great pause. “…if I were to request…you never speak to, touch, think about or even breath about my sister…you would be honorbound by your word to do so?” she spoke. It was a question that could not be answered in one sitting. He loved and adored Juliette as much as he hated her right now, and could not figure which was stronger at the moment. Unbeknownst to him, his truest answer would more than likely be found at the ball. Almost desperate to keep her favor, which was obviously given in the closeness of their bodies, he realized he had no choice, whether it be due to a mind clouded of sexual attraction, truth of heart, or unsurmountable rage did not matter. “a man is nothing but his word, Mistress…no matter how it may pain him…your wish shall be my greatest of priorities….” The words almost pained him as he stated, but the pain was quickly replaced as he heard the screaming come from down the hall, his eyes wincing and his hands shooting to his ears to cover them. Once it had subsided, he regained himself, and instinctively opened his eyes to the beautiful sight of Elvira’s cleavage. When he realized the image held within his eyes, he immediately straightened his back, and lifted his chin high once more.

“A man is nothing but his word, Mistress…no matter how it may pain him…your wish shall be my greatest of priorities….” was his reply, even as he struggled to not look upon her breasts. She could hear her father’s rage echoing through the house…and she knew then there would only be one reason for his tirade…Little Miss Juliette had done something unforgivable…and in her father’s eyes, that was tatamount to suicide.

The evil grin that split Elvira’s face was a site to behold.

To her it seemed as if Edward was holding his breath waiting for her conditions. Elvira decided to put him out of his misery.

“All right, then. I will take you as my companion to the ball. My conditions shall be named at a later time and at my discretion. So you would do well to not anger me…” she bent close to his ear, “…Edward.” His name rolled off her tongue in a sensuous caress, designed to let him know that she did in fact know his name. Her cheek brushed his as she stepped back. “Sally, my things please.” she commanded. Sally retrieved Elvira’s mask, cloak and gloves from the bed, handing them to her mistress to put on at her leisure. She slipped her gloves on before afixing her mask in place. Sally draped the black velvet cloak over Elvira’s shoulders, brushing out any dust and wrinkles that may have collected. “Let us brave the beast.” she announced once she was ready, stepping past Edward into the hall. “Enjoy the evening, Mistress.” Sally called out, watching Elvira as she sashayed down the hall. Elvira smirked. “Oh I intend to.” she murmured, more to herself.

Samantha had just finished hunting when she went back to the manor. Blood had still remained on her lips and she quickly went to the house, hoping to be unseen. She had passed Lailah on her way in and tried her best to conceal her face so that she could quickly move to the washroom, unnoticed. When she arrived she looked in the mirror and washed off her face. She tried to be graceful and not a messy eater but there was only so much she could do. At least she hadn’t gotten any on her dress. This seemed like it could be something she was proud of. Luckily, she was getting much better with her mind control and could now drink from humans without killing them. She could easily make them forget memories. Putting memories in people’s heads was a different story. Sam remained looking in the mirror a moment longer. She hadn’t cared much about her appearance when she had been a human and now that she was a vampire, she didn’t have to do much because her beauty was so radiant already, but whenever she knew she’d see Levi–which was every day–she found herself worrying more and more on what she looked like. She brushed her hair out of her eyes with her fingers and let out a heavy sigh, knowing there wasn’t more she could do with herself.
She could hear voices coming from the Doctor’s office, so she made her way up, knowing Levi was there. Sam knocked before opening, knowing it would be rude to barge in, but had never taken much notice on whether they responded or not before she walked in. She walked into the observation and was so taken back, she stumbled a little, the most un-vampire like thing she’d ever done because it was so not graceful. “Oh, um, hello?” she said, somewhat questioningly to the woman who was speaking with Levi. This made her uneasy because the girl was very pretty. Too pretty for her liking. Sam was never one to play well with others. “Er, sorry,” she said, straightening up and turning to Levi in a professional manner. She would not be a flirtatious little girl in front of another woman. She would have to be mature. She worked here after all. “Can I get you anything…sir?” she said, the word “sir” feeling foreign to her mouth since she was referring to Levi. Someone she considered to be her closest friend.

“Then its settled then. Right after supper, we will take a carriage to your recital, where I am certain you will rise to the occasion and thrill all with your dancing technique.” The Doctor said, folding his newspaper, now finished with catching up on the day’s news and affairs. He often found that in the smallest of articles, there was always hints of misadventures and scandals that may well be attributed to the evil side of London Society, and it is for this reason, that he tries to keep one step ahead. In the back of his mind however, he was wondering how Reginald was getting on with Miss Vivian. It wasn’t lost upon him that they were not exactly the best of friends, in fact he was sure they hated the sight of each other. Having to work along side your most despised is a challenge. There was no doubt that on the Detective’s return to the Manor to fetch his daughter and tell Johnathon of their investigation, that the words may be colored, and if this was the case, it would be all the more entertaining. A smile crept to Johnathon’s face at the very thought of the new curse words that would fall from the lips of Miss Vivian. She did have such a pretty mouth.

Johnathon’s attentions returned to the young Josephine and he clapped his hands together, rubbing them. “I do have another patient this afternoon I am expecting, so either feel free to take a tour of the house, or enjoy that novel you are reading. I know you shan’t be a bother. Not after all that has happened this day. You my dear, are like the lark that sings its song upon the open window. Ah, look, I am starting to try and emulate the great Shakespeare himself with lyrical words. Pity I could not have been so witty with Mrs Bianchi.” He cast his gaze down a moment, taking stock of what he had lost. “They say…that whenever a door closes, in one’s life….a window does offer its light.” He looked sad, as though the guilt did weigh heavily upon him for Saffron’s departure without note or word.

<3>

Josephine looked up to smile at Johnathon, her finger holding her spot in the book along the right side of the page. “Thank you for the vote of confidence. I do hope I can make father proud, as he has paid an exceptional amount towards my dancing lessons for quite some time now.” She watched him silently as he seemed distracted by his own thoughts. Flicking her eyes towards her book, she began to read once more. The tale of Frankenstein struck her as an odd tale of betrayal, rather than some sort of horror fiction. The poor monster just needed some guidance, and Dr. Frankenstein provided none. To Jo, that was the true reasoning behind the monster’s violent and deadly nature. With a soft sigh, she closed the book as it began to weigh on her mind too much for the moment. Glancing back towards the doctor, she wondered how much longer her father would be gone. It silently disturbed her that he would not be the one to watch her audition for the part she had wanted her whole life, but she was doing her best to understand that her father’s work needed his attention more. After all, he was trying to save lives, whereas she was just a ballet dancer.

She jumped a bit as he clapped her hands, and she placed a hand to her chest with a soft laugh “My goodness, that scared me…” Watching him closely, she smiled affectionately and batted her eyelashes accordingly as he compared her to a lark.“Why thank you, Dr. Bianchi. What a lovely sentiment.” As he then grew a bit despondent with his last statement, she wondered if she should offer some sort of comfort. Standing up slowly, she stepped over quietly with her book in hand. Reaching down with her free hand, Jo placed her hand on top of his and squeezed it encouragingly “I am sure that even though your wife left you, she is thinking of you and Levi constantly. From what I have seen in my brief moments with her, she seemed a bit lost. Perhaps she just needs to go on her own journey of self-enlightenment. I fully believe that such a thing can only bring you closer, not further apart.” Releasing her hand, she took a seat in front of his desk and nodded her head. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder, they say. I suppose that’s why I put up with my father’s…passion for work. The longer I am away, the more I cherish him.”

In an attempt to change the subject and return cheer to her father’s friend, she mused “Is Mrs. Peabody returning for her hysteria? I hear from some of my fellow dancers you have quite a talent…” Her smile was impish as she then looked away to innocently open her book. A smirk played on her lips as she pretended to read once more.

Josephine set the book aside when a maid came in to offer her a plate of cookies. Feeling like a young child, she smiled warmly and enjoyed the maternal attention. “Thank you, Miss. I was just thinking of how hungry I was.” The maid beamed with pleasure at the young woman’s manners and warm personality. Nodding her head, she set the plate on the edge of the desk closest to Jo and left the room. Picking one up, she took a dainty bite and closed her eyes slowly. “Mmh…these are simply delicious. You must have one, doctor.” Picking up the plate, she then offered one. Whether or not he took one, she then set it down to laugh “My goodness, how do you treat forgetfulness if they forget their own appointment?” Her eyes lit up with amusement and she leaned back in her seat. “You certainly have your work cut out for you. I suppose you will have to go look for him, won’t you?”

Placing her book on his desk, she noticed the emotions in his eyes. Restraining herself no more, she stood up and walked around the desk to lean over him. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she gently pulled him in for a hug. Kissing his cheek as though he were her father, she smiled sweetly. “You truly are a remarkable man, doctor. I should count myself lucky if I find a man half as decent as you.” Shaking her head slightly, she pulled back to smile down at him. “I wouldn’t consider myself so fortunate to marry any man, though. I don’t think any man can accept both my passion for dance and my…uniqueness.” Jo was of course referring to the fact that she was half human and the certain gifts she had. She was afraid of being rejected, but also could not keep a secret from a loved one. Therefore, she resigned herself to the life of an “old maid”, focusing on dancing and then perhaps one day opening her own ballet studio. Withdrawing from him, she then paced around the desk slowly. “So, can I help in any way?”

Levi waited until they were out of his father’s office to entwine his fingers with Sam’s. He pulled her close to his side as he led the way to his room, various maids and butlers watching with mild interest. He rarely invited women to his room unless they were council members to speak privately.

Pushing his door open to his room, he kicked the door shut and turned to face Sam. Smiling, he reached down to brush his fingertips to her cheek and murmured “I’m glad you’re here…I want to look my best for Phoebe. It’s bad enough I have to force her to go.” Pecking her forehead, he turned around and walked towards his closet to sort through clothes. As he pushed clothes around, he responded to her question. “She is…a friend of Detective Blaine’s. Johnathon has found out some interesting information regarding her background and wants to run some of his own medical tests.” He let it go at that and pulled out a simple black and white suit. He wasn’t one for these affairs, and he really just wanted to focus on more alone time with Sam. Placing the suit on the bed, he then waltzed back over to Sam with his cheeky grin. Crossing his arms, he winked “Would you like to dress me? I’m sure you’ve already imagined me naked…” He gave her another gentlemanly kiss on the forehead, but it took all his strength not to sweep her into his arms.

It was a silent ride back from the Cathedral for Johnathon, Reginald and Vivian, as all were traumatized by what they had seen. The Detective’s face was grim, and he constantly drummed his fingers on the door wanting to make the driver go faster, for his concern for Josephine was now the first thing in his mind. Vivian’s face was white like a sheet, still feeling sick about the state of the body that was hanging from the cross. She had not been so badly affected by the murders before this, but for some reason, this one had a significance to it, she found hard to understand. Johnathon sat opposite Vivian, and his body swayed with the movement of the carriage, his eyes searching her face, wondering if she had figured it out yet. Did she wake up to the fact the girl was an angel? And if she had, should Johnathon reveal the truth of his lineage?

The Bianchi Manor – Foyer

Maid Milly heard the bell chime for the front door, and scurried to get it, shocked to see the state of the Doctor and his companions. The Detective and Johnathon were covered in dirt, while Vivian looked like she had seen a ghost. Johnathon helped carry in the vampire killing kit, and set the shovel against the wall, as The Detective ran into the Doctor’s office, crying out;

“Josephine!…Josephine!”

<3>

As a maid in the Bianchi Manor, Lydia was well aware of the chaos that happened within the enclosed doors. With a sigh, she stared at the house and recalled her moments of peace at the fountain in town. She had noticed the lovely Josephine was in town, and she was walking with a troubled gaze towards the ballet academy. She was murmuring words of encouragement to herself, her nerves clearly getting the best of her when she spoke of the audition to herself. The maid had found it unusual that she would be traveling alone, but it was none of her business. Shaking her head, Lydia adjusted the bun on her head and walked into the house. Raising an eyebrow, she took in the appearance of Reginald Blaine calling for Josephine. Glancing at the Doctor, her eyes fell to the kit and then the shovel he placed against the hall. Smiling slightly, she asked “Digging for treasure?” She gave Vivian a slight nod of the head, wondering what had gotten her panties in a twist. Returning her gaze to the detective, she stepped towards him and placed her hand on his arm “Detective, I don’t know why you believe she is here, but I have recently seen Josephine downtown. She was walking by herself to the academy and was speaking about an audition. She looked quite nervous and scared.” Shrugging slightly, she turned to the doctor “Shall I fetch some tea for your guests?” Folding her hands in front of her, she looked from one man to another. Lydia had no idea that Josephine had run away to her audition, angry at her father for not being there and hurt by Johnathon’s reaction to her.

Johanthon turned to hear Lydia ask if they had been digging for treasure. It was a comical question, that deserved a quip in response, but Johnathon was in no mood for playing games. “Oh this? For digging up the un dead at the Cathedral.” Vivan shuddered and took out the wreath of garlic cloves and promptly hung it around her neck. She trotted into the office, after the distraught Reginald, who was searching the observation room for Josephine.

“She’s not here. Maybe she is with Levi in his room.” He suddenly became angry. “I’ll kill him!” Johnathon picked up the shovel and said,.”Do I need to use this?” Vivian snatched it off him and put it back against the door. “Will you both calm down?”

“NO!” they yelled in unison. During which, Lydia kindly placed her hand on the Detective’s arm and said quietly;

“Detective, I don’t know why you believe she is here, but I have recently seen Josephine downtown. She was walking by herself to the academy and was speaking about an audition. She looked quite nervous and scared.”

That was it. The Detective took off out the door, leaving Vivian standing there, wondering where to go, or what to do. Johnathon took off his hat and ran his hand through his hair. Lydia was kind enough to offer to get tea, but the Doctor had another type of drink on his mind; Brandy.

“I’ll be in my office, Lydia. Thank you anyways.” He marched in there, and Vivian side stepped, much like a crab, following him in, not wanting to be left alone, not with Vampires and Demons on the loose.

<3>

Lydia watched with raised brows as Detective Blained took off out the door. Turning slowly, she looked at the nervous Vivian and a small smile graced her lips. “It seems the lady will need some of my famous tea…” As the doctor marched into his office, she disappeared into the kitchen to prepare some for her. Lydia was masterful at creating teas that were both soothing and quite delicious, almost medicinal. Oftentimes she was showing Josephine how to make herbal remedies when Levi or Johnathon did not have her attention. As she clanked around the kitchen, she began the process of making the tea. Minutes passed before she emerged from the kitchen, tea and cookies in hand on a platter.

Doctor Bianchi’s Office

Lydia stepped into the doctor’s office, a warm smile on her face. “I understand you did not wish for some tea, sir, but the lady looks as though she has seen a ghost.” That was her only hint towards the investigation, as Lydia was not only a shifter, but a renowned clairvoyant. She sensed the presence of the dead angel hovering outside the manor impatiently, and Lydia sensed she was scared. Waving off that thought, she looked towards Vivian with her maternal smile. “Some tea to calm the nerves, dear. Though Dr. Bianchi is quite gifted and I’m sure he will have you feeling better in no time.” Looking between the two, she took a seat in front of Dr. Bianchi’s desk. Reaching for her own cup of tea, she took a sip and sighed contently “Well, it’s perfect.” Glancing at the doctor, she gave him a knowing look. As Lydia held the ability to know a great many things both as a clairvoyant and a shifter, she had the knowledge the doctor was always welcome to use.

Levi chuckled at Sam’s boldness, his hands reaching up to unbutton his shirt. Turning around to face her, he continued to smile and shook his head “Someone ought to give that arse a good whooping, Samantha.” He stepped towards her and looked down at her beautiful face as though he were assessing it. With his shirt completely unbuttoned and opened, he reached down to caress her face again. His eyes searched hers before murmuring “If I could, I would take you, Sam. You are the only one who makes me completely happy.” He placed yet another kiss on her forehead, but this time Levi allowed his lips to linger. They brushed over her soft skin lovingly before he turned around and walked back to his bed. Pulling his shirt off and sliding his pants down, he muttered distractedly. “I have to leave soon. Would you mind fetching Phoebe? We can’t be late.” With that, he went about the task of dressing himself silently.

The Doctor had fallen practically into his seat, at his desk. Tired, dirty and stressed to the max, he didn’t think he would even be able to treat another patient this day, let alone entertain anyone. Vivian had followed the Doctor in, and she started to find herself interested in the pictures, diplomas, and other wall hangings. Paintings of his wife, and his children adorned the walls, and it was clear he was a family man at heart. But to Johnathon, he felt his family was fractured, beyond repair. Tilting his head back, he closed his eyes for a moment, seeing Josephine’s face again, and he shook his head to free his mind of her. He was already at odds with Reginald, about how he failed to look after the girl, even though he had told her to stay in the Manor for her own safety. Johnathon hoped that she would be okay, wherever she was.

Vivian finally sat herself down, and stared at Johnathon. She thought he was stressed over the murders, in particular the young woman who was found hanging from the cross. She placed her hands in her lap and asked;

“Do you self medicate when you have days like this?” It was a very bold question, but it was an honest one, since when do you ever hear of a Doctor, going to see another Doctor for medical help. Johnathon opened his eyes and looked at her, like she was reverting to her true journalist like questioning.

“If Brandy counts as medication….then yes, I suppose I do.” Not exactly the kind of answer that Vivian would have expected, but at least he was being honest. “I don’t drink heavily. Mostly social, along with a good cigar. Might as well enjoy it if you plan to drown your sorrows.”

The point was taken, and Vivian offered a flat lipped smile, as Lydia spoke up;

“Some tea to calm the nerves, dear. Though Dr. Bianchi is quite gifted and I’m sure he will have you feeling better in no time.”

Miss Westlake was grateful to see that some still had manners, and treated her like a lady. “That would be lovely, Lydia is it? I am Miss Westlake…but feel free to call me Viv.” She took the cup of tea and started to drink, as the Doctor kicked back in his chair. “Gifted? I highly doubt that.” he was though, but didn’t like to be modest about it. The Doctor then had a question for Lydia.

“Going to that…society ball. Masquerade, I understand. All the young ones are going, I imagined you would be too.”

<3>

Lydia picked up one of the cookies that was on the table and placed it to her lips. Taking a bite, she smiled slightly and pressed a napkin to her lips daintily. “Pardon me…” When her mouth was no longer full, she nodded to Vivian with a warm smile “A pleasure, Ms. Westlake. Vivian…I rather like that name.” She turned towards the door as she noticed a fellow maid slip in. She curtsied to Johnathon before she turned to press a piece of paper into Lydia’s free hand. With that, she hurried out the door. Lydia looked at the piece of paper curiously before she unfolded it. Letting out a soft sigh, she then glanced up at Johnathon as he asked her if she was attending the ball. Shaking her head, she stood slowly and brushed crumbs off of her dress. Walking over to the doctor, she stooped down and planted a kiss on his cheek “I would, but Ms. Bianchi is here.” As if confirming this, there was a knock on the door. Lydia withdrew from the doctor and smiled “Ever so punctual…” Turning to Vivian, she bowed her head as her warm smile returned “Do enjoy that tea, Viv. I hope your stay here is enjoyable.” And with that final statement, she rushed out the door to meet the youngest Bianchi.

Foyer

Genevieve Bianchi stood behind the door as she knocked, an amused smile on her face. She didn’t dare wonder what was going on inside or what had happened in her absence. Rupert was on her shoulders and was making busy work of fixing her hair. As the door was opened by Lydia, she smiled more “Ah, you got my note.”

Lydia smirked in returned and nodded her head “Of course, or there would be a less busy maid here to assist you.” The maid gave the capuchin monkey a polite nod and reached over to take the bag that Genny was holding. Looking over Genny’s shoulder to look at her carriage, she raised an eyebrow “I assume all the rest is in there?”

Genny brushed passed her into the manor and laughed softly “Of course. There is much to be added to my vastly expanding collection.” Pulling off gloves, she passed them to her beloved pet and looked around distractedly. “And where is my father?”

The maid returned to her side after instructing the footmen where to put everything and responded “In his office, of course.”With that, she set about getting numerous paintings out of the carriage.

The youngest Bianchi sighed and glanced up at Rupert. “Why did I think he would be anywhere else…” Walking towards her father’s office, she knocked once before breezing in elegantly. Looking around, she first spotted Vivian. Blinking in surprise, she raised an eyebrow “You are one of the more attractive hysterical women Daddy treats.” Giving her an assessing look, she nodded with satisfaction and God only knew what before her eyes fell on Johnathon. Smiling softly, she shrugged her shoulders and crossed her arms “Hello Daddy.”

The day of the ball. The day Barawk had been waiting for. He knew something was about to go down, and he knew his rival, Agares, would be at the center of it all. Along side his demon master, Lillith. the very thought of the two angered him. His eyes held the clouds above his head, as the dark of night was merely a few hours away, and with it, the start of the ball. Exerting his will over the clouds, they began to darken, almost suddenly, but still in a believeable manner, and a gentle rain fell from the clouds as booming thunder echoed. This would cast shade over the whole of London, blocking out the sun almost entirely.

His eyes matched the color of his clouds, as his angelic form came free from it’s bounds and he launched into the skies with a single flap of his mighty wings. He soared through the clouds, his mouth a bridge for the thunder that sounded each time it was opened. Though his wings were made of feathers, they were resistant to water, at least in the sense that they couldn’t become soaked with it and prevent flight. He continued his adventure of the skies above the manor as lightning struck the ground outside the front door, and left singed grass and dirt in it’s path.

Phoebe’s sweet tone and innocent appearance just seemed to irritate Sam more. As beautiful as she was, Sam was not very sweet and innocent herself. Even as a maid she had a fierce and powerful presence about her. But most men did not find that attractive in a woman. What they found attractive was… well, Phoebe. Sam simply shrugged when Phoebe asked if he was impatient. “I suppose so,” she said, keeping any rudeness that she may have wanted to add, out of her voice. She gestured for her to follow her and she made her way out of the room. Sam couldn’t imagine that she would like balls very much either, but she would go in a second if not to just keep Levi from dancing with anyone but her. She did not like dancing, but she was incredibly graceful and would be able to do it if it was required of her. It was simply moving to music and the rest of the time she could just speak with Levi about whatever they wanted. It sounded amazing.
They arrived on the stairs just as Levi called up to them. He looked absolutely amazing and she felt her un-beating heart tighten a little in her chest, but she gave him a playful smile. “She’s ready when you are,” she said, stepping out of the way a little as if to present Phoebe to him. Though she did so reluctantly.

Lydia was so polite, bringing a soft smile to the lips of Vivian, who was now extremely tired after the entire day, dealing with the Detective and Johanthon. Mind you, it was Johnathon that helped bring her round at the Cathedral, and had brought her back to his Manor, where she would be able to get some rest, eventually. As Lydia was taking her leave, she announced that the Doctor’s daughter; Genevieve had returned to the family home. Johnathon showed a look of surprise, though as tired and dirty as he was, he would receive her personally. Vivian looked down at herself, and asked the Doctor;

“May I be taken to a room, to bathe and then take a nap, I fear the day has taken its toll on me, and I think I would fall asleep in the carriage back to my bedsit.” You could see the dark circles around her eyes, and that she did require rest. Johnathon sung out for Milly, who entered the door, when Lydia left.

“Ah, Milly, please show Miss Westlake up to the spare guest suite. She will be spending the evening, so she can be bright and chipper for the morrow.” Johnathon said, and he looked over at Miss Westlake and used his hand to gesture that she follow the Maid. Vivian was grateful to the Doctor for his hospitality, and rose slowly, smoothing her skirts with her hand. Maid Milly ushered Vivian out, and as she did so, she passed Genevieve, who said:

“You are one of the more attractive hysterical women Daddy treats.”

“I’ve yet to have the pleasure. Oh and..cute monkey.” Vivian said, wiggling her fingers at the creature, before disappearing out into the hallway to go upstairs. With the door closed behind her, Johnathon eased back in his chair, regarding his youngest daughter, who seemed to have returned to the family home.

“Usually when the baby bird falls from the nest, it flies away. What has brought my baby bird home? Hmm?”

It was an odd way of asking why she had decided to come home now, especially so soon after her Mother had disappeared. Johnathon was unsure of how to tell her, that Saffron was gone, and sat silently, watching his daughter pace the room. He didn’t jump up and offer her a welcome home hug, but instead reached for his glass of brandy and took a sip. His mind still cluttered with all that had happened this past day.

“Your brother Levi is upstairs I believe. Preparing for a ball. Perhaps if you wish, you could see him about tagging along, instead of being cooped up here with your old man, hmm?”

<3>.

Genny paced and looked at the paintings of the family in his office, some of them even done by yours truly. She smiled softly looking from face to face until they fell on Saffron’s. A frown tightened at her lips as she turned to look at her father. “I’ve flown south for migration. Lovely weather London is having, isn’t it?” Stepping up to her father’s desk, she was all business as she tossed a parcel of letters onto his desk. “Someone has found these. I assume mother is dead.” Stepping back, she reached up to stroke Rupert as she spoke in a monotone. “A little birdie told me mother has flown the coop herself. Apparently her trip has taken a turn for the worst.” Leaning down, she pecked his cheek and murmured “I will not be attending the ball, dancing is a bore to me.” Straightening up, she continued “I will be in my gallery if needed. It seems you will need you rest.”With that, the mysterious Bianchi daughter glided out of the room and headed for her gallery.

Levi had just missed his sister come in when he came downstairs to wait by the door. As he leaned against the wall, he heard Sam’s voice. Straightening up, he then watched Phoebe turn to Sam with a smile before gliding down the stairs. She was breath-taking. The Bianchi son stepped forward slowly with a soft smile and ran a hand through his hair “Phoebe, you look lovely.”

Phoebe smiled slightly and shrugged “Can we get this over with?”

He laughed softly and nodded “Of course.” He offered his arm to the human before looking up to Sam. He blew her a kiss as his eyes looked at her tenderly. Then tapping his nose, he turned for the door and led Phoebe to their carriage.

(Thread Change to Ballroom)

Genevieve’s reaction to her father’s lack of emotion in her return, was understandable. Perhaps she got it from him, or maybe it was her fierce independent streak. Either way, she kept her tone one of business, much like he had, as she dumped a wad of letters on the desk, and said matter of factly that she assumed her mother was dead. The words were said, and it was like an ice pick was being driven through his heart. He had not mentioned a word about Saffron, and this had him troubled, that she knew Saffron was gone, but the part about her being dead…..was news. Johnathon stared at the package, his right hand still holding the glass of brandy. Only his eyes moved, from the pile to his daughter, who curtly said, that Mother’s trip had taken a turn for the worse. Gen offered a light peck on the cheek to her father, before declaring she would not attend the ball, and that she could be found in her gallery. Johnathon was like a statue. Unable to move as his daughter left the room. Finally alone with the pile of letters. One, was addressed to him. Smeared lettering, probably from tears.

Nervously, Johnathon set down the glass, and then reached for the top most letter. He toyed with it, for a good five minutes, as though he didn’t want to know its contents. But if he didn’t, then how could he move on with his life? The day she went away, he died inside. Finally, he tore open the envelope, and withdrew the paper within. His eyes cast back and forth across each line, each sentence…and the Doctor….fell apart.

My Johnathon-

My love, I am so, so sorry. Please do not ever forgive me, for I do not deserve it. I love you more than either of us can really comprehend, and I pray that you know that. I can only hope that you do not in any way understand why I would leave you, because in truth, I never could and never can. I will always be with you, whether you want me there or not, and I can understand in full why the latter would occur. I will miss you for eternity, long for you, but I need you to forget me. I fear that if ever we were to meet again, it would be our undoing. Take care of our children, they adore you, as you treat them better than I ever could. I pray you all find happiness without me, for I was selfish and pitiful. If you receive this letter, my wish for prolonged distance has been granted, and you will be able to find peace at last. While you must rid yourself of the memories of me, please keep the thought that you are loved unconditionally for eternity, that no matter what, there is always someone that cares for you.

I love you
Saffron

Johnathon brought the paper up to his lips, and then openly wept. His sobbing could be heard from the foyer, and Milly stopped in her place, hearing the grief stricken doctor, as his whole world came crashing down. It was so sad, and Milly found herself walking to the door, and opening it slightly. She had never seen a man cry like that before. The letter had now fallen on the floor, and he had his back to the door. Milly slowly crossed the room, and then stood in front of him, and the Doctor did something out of character. He let Milly wrap her arms around him, and brought his head to her, as she continued to coo softly, trying to give him comfort….something he needed so desperately.

<3>

They managed to get a carriage back to the manor, and Josephine spent the trip holding her father’s hand and resting her head against his shoulder. The case was getting worse and worse, and she feared for her father. As the carriage rolled to a stop in front of the manor, a footman helped her out carefully. Planting her feet on the ground, she had a strange sense of fear as she looked at the manor. Glancing over her shoulder, she gave her father a worried look before she picked up her skirts and walked into the house. As she stepped through the door, she sensed something was wrong. The manor was far too quiet. As she walked further into the foyer, she then heard a sound that felt as though it could rip her heart out. Someone was crying. Following the sound to the doctor’s office, she walked in and gasped. The doctor was crying in the arms of Milly. As she watched the pitiful display, her empathic ability had her in tears as well.

Stepping forwards nervously, she was unsure if she would even be welcome at a time like this. And yet, she felt this emotional pull towards Johnathon. He was a close friend of the family and she wanted nothing more than to comfort him. That was all it was, right? Slipping closer, she placed a hand lightly on his arm, mentally preparing herself in case he lashed out. When she was spoke, it was in a soft angelic voice filled with comfort and love “Dr. Bianchi…is everything all right?” Tears clung to her long eyelashes she looked up at him with concern. 

Galtem’s declaration he was done, was followed by a glance over at some of the male patrons getting lap dances. Was he keen to get one? Amelia had to wonder. She had to admit, it would be kinda funny to sit with him while he got one. Course, he was trying to change his image, and when he did take a seat, he shewed one girl away, clearly not interested. Amelia had to admit she was impressed. Taking a seat besides Galtem, she eased back, and watched the other men enjoying the hostesses favor. She then wondered how Caleb was getting on. “You know, I can’t help but say this, but that kid, Caleb..he is the spitting image of you. Have you noticed?” She also wondered if anyone else at the party might pick up on that. NH wasn’t that big a place you could hide from your past.

<3>

“We just got in a stupid fight, so I came by myself. Figured she’d need Aunt M to calm her down more than I would.” Seph sat as she spoke, shooting a small smile at William. “Plus, I don’t exactly need two angry Mills on my ass tonight. I kinda… took a day.” She hadn’t gone to school because of the fight, and that would be easy to infer, but she didn’t want to say it out loud. It felt like losing, like she was letting Circe win by letting it get to her. She didn’t give a shit if she “fit in” or not, what she hated was being accused of being jealous of the person she loved most in the world. “So, how’re… things?” Her smile grew a little bit. “Did you hear about the newcomers? It’s like the first time that people have moved to Derry at the same time, that weren’t related, in like… what was it, thirty years?” She knew that the new chem teacher and the new student probably had nothing to do with each other or anything that had ever happened in the town, but it was a nice conversation topic, at least in her mind. Better than talking about school or their jobs, or her sister.

Galtem leaned his back against the couch and dropped his arm over the arm of the couch, as he tilted his head to the side and watched Amelia getting closer and sit down next to him as well. When she open her mouth, he thuoght she was going to talk about drinks or something, but the subject was about that kid, Caleb. She was telling him he is the spitting image of him, oh god, really?
“Are you kidding me?”
He said in a tone, like he couldn’t believe what she was saying. Having a teenager like him, that isn’t really needed, at this moment. But now he wondered if she only meant that his father died and his mother send him away to another person, now that part he would understand, but he didn’t wanted to admit that the kid looked like him when he was a teen, and that his personality was alike his as well. That would just be weird.
“Ugh, don’t even make me think about that, that’s gross.”
He told her, as he shook his head and saw the bartender placing his whiskey on the table. He picked up his glass and took a small sip from his drink. He didn’t wanted people to start think he had a son, because that isn’t really on Galtem’s wishes, he never wanted to have a child, he never thought about it nor getting married. Of course, he already got married before, but that’s only because his girlfriend on that time brought it up, and he done it to please her, but the marriage just ruined their bond.

Amelia held her hands up in an effort to surrender, cause she truly didn’t want to get on Galtem’s bad side, especially after a few drinks. “Okay okay…I’m sorry I brought it up.” Amelia said quickly, feeling bad about the situation now. Nervously, she got up to stand, and she wasn’t steady on her feet, having to place her hand quickly on the guy beside her’s head. “I’m just going to…go find..the bathroom. I think…I’m going to be sick.” She drew back her hand from the guy’s head and mouthed “sorry”, before staggering clumsily through the crowd, in a dash to reach the bathroom.

<3>

She was adamant about one thing though. Caleb. Amelia wasn’t stupid, and she knew Galtem’s rep in town, which wasn’t that crash hot with the likes of say Jennifer, especially after River’s funeral all that time ago. How on earth would she react to seeing Caleb there? Galtem was in serious denial of the truth of the matter, and though Amelia couldn’t cope sitting there, as he let rip that the idea was preposterous, she knew that this was going to rustle some folks feathers. Amelia there and then made up her mind. If Galtem was not going to keep an eye on things, she might as well. The kid was young and about to be fed to the wolves, so to speak. Amelia gave her reflection a firm nod, and headed out of the toilets, after washing her hands, and went to look for Caleb, since she knew that Galtem was probably entertaining someone else by now.

Seeing Caleb at the end of the bar, she pushed her way through the crowd, and came up to sit in an empty seat next to him.“Just water.” Amelia asked of the bar tender, before looking across at Caleb. “Great place, huh?” Amelia said, trying to just make idle conversation, since he would really only know her or Galtem.

<3>