Flashback #2

The rain splashed against the glass with but the lightest of touches, sliding down the pane as if only their destination mattered. The fireplace crackled and flickered trying hard to keep eating away at the givers of its limited life. Pictures of people hung upon the walls, covered in grime and dust from ages of unkemptness. It was still a beautiful room, but she used none of it, save the fireplace. The bed in the far corner was old and worn. It used to be a canopy bed, yet the old silken canopy fabric itself had no more life left in it. Shredded and dangling like the cobwebs that hung in the corners of the high ceiling. It used to be white, she had once guessed, but now it was brown and yellow, even the drafts this old house offered could barely move the leaden silk now hanging. The mattress was no longer an inkling of any use. It looked as black as night itself, the mold eagerly devouring whatever it could. She was unsure anymore what the mattress could be made of, she cared even less. The floor itself was still hardwood and utterly sturdy for the age of this home, and it seemed only the floor was defiant of the dust and caked on grime. The drafts would come, stirring the dust from the floor in mini dust devils cascading the particles into the air and the floor would shine in its defiance. Musty air swirled around with the dust, caressing her nostrils, and being forcefully removed with her breath. She could smell the rot, the graven aroma, surrounded by false death, false decay, and even the darkness. She paid no heed to those smells or any of the others within the room. She would have if the outside scents could have made their way into this old, yet massive home. For outside, scents of danger and blood rode the air with arrogance and pride. The rain picked up and thunder echoed through the sky and room as if neither one was part of the laws of physics. It didn’t matter much to her, however. What mattered was quelling her hunger, quelling the pain that began to make residence within the wholeness of her body. It began to wrap its massive arms of time around her, sinking deep into the cracks in her being no one could see. She blinked lightly, though her eyes never seemed to really dry, more so out of habit than need. There were many habits now that her body no longer needed, yet she made sure to stick to them. She blinked one more time, her lashes closing together repelling the dust contaminated air from in front of her eyes. She kept them closed a little longer than normal and sighed as she opened them. Darkness had come quick, it seemed unnatural but there it was regardless. There were no clouds now, at least none that could be seen, until the strikes of lighting arced across the sky with agitating ease and agility. Only then could the scenery be seen, and only then in flashes of instant light. It could not really be made out of course, but she already knew what was there. She had stared out this window for time long passed now, ages really. She only watched the darkness, its thickness, mugginess, rancidness, and control enveloping the area around it, she took great comfort in it. It was the immense tidal wave she called her life, all of it. Everything about it, she was on top and her life belonged to it beyond what even she comprehended. The door to this room, intricate in design and craftsmanship opened behind her, as it did a feeling of sheer cold crossed her skin. It was all in her imagination of course, but she felt it as if she believed the illusion for all she was worth. She cared little for the presence that had entered the room she occupied. The fire shrieked and cackled in defiance of the new found intruder upon its comfort. The figure stood there within the doorway, wind kicking past as death on a pale horse, riding where it could. Stirring up dust and debris, the wind whistled, a low harmony of solemn sounds and haunting pitches. Scratches in the wall came and went as the newly introduced sounds seemed to disturb some presence within them. Her ears twinged in defiance of the melody, she tightened her lips, her hand wrapped around an unseen pendant, she wanted silence, and he had interrupted once again. She was trapped now, the darkness her world, her needs changed. The darkness was the only thing that she could accept, embrace against the harshness of life. Her fiancé, twisted and torn in front of her eyes, he was no more. Her family, lost years to her touch in the dark alleys, their bodies now hidden from prying eyes. It mattered no longer. She was new, her mind different. Her wants changed, the darkness was her ally and in it, she controlled the world around her. Sheep wandered freely, their inner wool providing her with warmth. A smile eased across her lips as her tongue flicked lightly on her upper lip. A sheep was near, and she was in need of the warmth. Her eyes listed left across the green grass, the statues, and the shrubs she knew were there, though were unseen tonight. There was more to her story than even she knew, yet her mind was on the verge of collapsing. She needed out, she wanted out, but she felt him enter, his presence strong, commanding, and fearful. She held her head high, fighting in defiance against it though. She had been captured by the darkness, and it held strong against her. She welcomed it with all she was worth anymore. She craved it, delighted within it, and so desperately clung to it as an awed child would to its mother in it’s incapability to understand. His touch brought her back to the reality she had no desire to go back to and she pulled her shoulder away from his touch a bit of annoyance rising within her. It refused to leave as she turned her head lightly, catching him from the side of her vision.

Flashback

The rain splashed against the glass with but the lightest of touches, sliding down the pane as if nothing else mattered. Musty air swirled into her nose as she heard the door open. She could smell the rot, the musty aroma, surrounded by false death and decay. She paid no heed only watch as the darkness engulfed the yard around her home, her sanctuary. It seemed to wrap its massive arms of time, sinking deep into the cracks no one could see. Thick, muggy, rancid, and controlling. It was the whole of her life now, that darkness. She cared little for the presence that had entered the room she occupied. Candles glowed across the mantle piece, as a fire in the fireplace crackled and eagerly devoured it’s life substance. The scratches in the wall came and went, twinging her ears in defiance of the silence she so desired. Trapped now, the darkness her world, her needs had changed now. The darkness was the only thing that she could accept, embrace against the harshness of life. Her fiancé, twisted and torn in front of her eyes, he was no more. Her family, lost years to her touch in the dark alleys, their bodies now hidden from prying eyes. It mattered no longer. She was new, her mind different. Her wants changed, the darkness was her ally and in it, she controlled the world around her. Sheep wandered freely, their wool providing her with warmth. A smile eased across her lips as her tongue flicked lightly
on her upper lip. A sheep was near, and she was in need of the warmth. Her eyes listed left across the green grass, the statues, and the shrubs she knew were there, though had no seen in anything but the moon light. It still burned too, but not enough to cause her that much harm. There was more to her story than even she knew, yet her mind was on the verge of collapsing. She needed out. She felt him enter, his presence strong, commanding, and fearful. She didn’t give into it though, she had been captured by the darkness, and it held strong, though his touch brought her back to the reality she had no desire to go back to. She turned her head lightly, catching him from the side of her vision. Her blonde bangs fell above her blue eyes. Her stare caught him mid step, an eager smile caressing his lips. The deepest of blue he’d ever seen. They reminded him of the storms at night. They dragged you in, eagerly awaiting to crush your being against the rocks of their shores. Her pupils were dilated to a mere spec of their former beauty, one of the thing he regretted when he took her, they would never go as deep and full as they once were. He sucked his upper lip lightly into his mouth admiring the beauty that stood before him. He had taken her in the prime of her life, she would prove a most worthy student in the ancient
arts. She had opted for the green dress this eve. Emerald and silver cross earrings hung from her
earlobes, and she had matched them with a necklace of the same caliber. The cross was hung from a silver chain and it hovered just above her cleavage, almost inviting you in. The dress itself was an amazing choice, accenting all of the right features. It just washed over her like a wave of purity. He took a deep breath as he admired her, unknown to him that her heart was filled with rage. He turned on his foot lightly, his arm spreading towards the door. She cursed inside her mind, about the only thing that was not fully broken of her body anymore. She watched him at first, him and his styled brown hair. His green eyes were sharp, even dangerous at times. She was beginning to hate that color, though she didn’t want to anger him. She followed his outstretched arm and there she stood. Long brown hair, a dirty face, lanky arms and legs. She scowled lightly at the girl in the doorway. Another peasant, always bring her peasants. She wanted something richer, something deeper, or even something with meaning. His face suddenly went serious, and his arm dropped to his side as he tried to control his
patience.

“Our choices are sorely limited, love.” His voice was stretched and she growled lightly at him once more.

“Fix it.” Her voice was factual, though she gave in to her desires. She strode soundless to the female in the doorway. She moved her hand down her cheek like water, and smiled as the tears began to fall from the eyes of the terrified girl. Teens, always thinking they knew it all, and this one was just about to see how scary it could get. She laughed lightly as she ran her hand to her neck. She held it there, closing her eyes. She tilted her head back as the throbbing of each heart beat sent spasms of enjoyment through her whole being. She waited not longer as the desire rose up from within her. Her hand found the hair of the girl and pulled roughly. The girl yelped lightly, but she quashed it quickly. She sank her fangs directly into the veins of her meal, letting the blood flow easily down her throat. It quickly relished itself into her body, repairing the undead tissue, and filling her body with a power only her body could tap. She felt the heart beat weaken, but she didn’t stop, she relished the fact she held this dear little girls life within her hands.

“Enough, Valleera, we need no more attention.” His voice grated her nerves and she held on a second longer. The girls heartbeat slowed to a deadly pace for the poor creature and she pulled away, dropping the body to the ground. She hit with a heavy thunk, her hair falling over her face, hiding the fearful brown eyes. Her arms were stretched out an limp, her legs bent at the knees, one atop the other. A light blood trickle came from the clean spot on her neck. Valleera wiped her mouth, removing the grime from her lips. She tasted nothing of that taint that was not imaginary, but she spit on the ground lightly as she walked past him. He growled lightly and shook his head, she was becoming more of a chore than what she was worth. His mouth opened to say something, but something else caught his attention. She smiled to herself, the smells hitting her nose. It was damp fur, surrounded by oil and steel. She smelled something else though, and that smell took her completely by surprise. She whirled around and there he stood, sword in each hand.

“Ashton?” Her voice broke, her eyes wide. His hair was matted, his blades bloody. She knew where the blood came from but she pushed the thought aside. His long red hair was matted and dirty, but his ice blue eyes still shined even in the dim lit hallway. She ignored the smells that wafted from him, she could only see him. He was a magnificent specimen of a man. His strength knew no bounds, and his quickness was astounding. It’s why she fell in love with him, well that and his charm and sense of humor. Though there was no smile on his face at this time. He was watching her, with deadly intentions behind those eyes. She took a step back as her mind finally encompassed around the aroma’s she got from him. Something grabbed the door frame beside him and she hissed loudly. Talons embraced the wood, sinking deep as the furry fingers that held them gripped firmly into it. The wood splinted and she saw the maw begin to come into view. It was massive, with easily 8 inch incisors jutting from both the bottom and top of it. It was filled with razor sharp teeth along the jawlines, and she now feared for her life. The nose on the top was black but moist, and the red stained fur around the jaw line was enough
to let her know the full area that played out. These were elders, and they were pissed. She looked to her sire and his body was glowing as he was tapping on the power of his blood. She smiled to herself, it would take more than two to take him on and survive. She followed suit. “I want Ashton.” She growled to her sire. Her fingernails suddenly began to grow as she tapped into the power of the blood she had just devoured. Her body sang in acceptance as it began to increase in power, agility and speed. She stared at her fiancé, a smirk crossed his lips. His body suddenly changed at such an alarming rate she wasn’t sure what she saw, but there he stood. He was massive, the blades in his hands now dwarfed in comparison. He was hunched in the door way, his back still touching the top of the door frame, and still there was pressure on the muscles there. He opened his maw, a howl escaping his lips. Two more wolves appeared at his feet. Regular wolves, but she knew better. They had no room to change at this moment and opted for their speedier forms. She hissed again and bolted for him. Rage was in her eyes, her muscles flexed as her claws sank deep into his chest. She picked him and threw him across the room. The two lighter wolves leaped towards her and she knocked them aside with ease. She fueled more blood into her abilities as the massive wolf leaped at her sire. She leaped towards Ashton again her claws in full 2 feet long from each nail on her fingers. Sturdier, sharper and more reliable than any steal blade. She sank them deep into him again. His hand grabbed
her and he flung her suddenly against the wall across from him. She sailed through it and the corridor wall behind it. She lay there for only a second before bolting back towards him. His wounds were already healed. His massive from came flying through the wall at the same time she did. It engulfed her little body. She screamed as she was raised above his head, he slammed her suddenly into the floorboards. She felt bones snap, skin rip, but felt no pain. They repaired themselves almost instantly, but she would need to feed again this eve. The thunder cracked suddenly outside as he picked her up again. She sank her claws into his arm as she threw taking flesh and muscle with her. He howled in pain but followed her body. Two of his companions caught her and she heard the sickening tear of flesh. She chanced a look, her arms now useless against the strength of these two werewolves. She laughed as she saw Simon turn towards Ashton’s running form. His mouth was drenched in wolf blood, his eyes rabid and angry. Ashton didn’t stop, he barreled into Simon picking him up by his head. Simon lashed out with amazing strength at the maw of his attacker. Ashton’s head cranked sideways with each hit, blood flying across the room. Ashton had him in the air above him, Simons head only inches from the ceiling. Simon kicked, but he was brought down suddenly into the ground
with so much force the house literally shook. Her eyes were wide as the maw bit deep into a now screaming Simon. She could hear bones snap, the tearing of flesh and cartilage. She was sickened by this display. Ashton reared his head back suddenly, half of Simons head in his maw. He spit it aside, blood and brain dripping from his massive teeth. She screamed loudly, struggling against her captors but they held fast. Ashton looked to her, his eyes locking to hers, still the same beautiful ice blue. She saw his fingers grasp a piece of wood from the fireplace. His eyes watched her the whole time as he brought it back to him. She followed and he shifted from suddenly back to human. His face was serious and stern. He drove the piece of wood through the chest of Simon. The breaking of bone and the sudden smell of burnt flesh and ash engulfed the room. She lowered her head, saddened at the link lost with her sire.

“More will come. Cole, Anka, let her go, she is of no concern to us as of yet.” She felt her captors release her arms and her body returned to it’s normal vamipiric self. Her nails shrank back into her fingers and her body lost it’s enhanced attributes. She was still very much a threat, but not to 3 werewolves. She raised her eyes and looked to Ashton again, a female and male were at his side now. Anger engulfed her, but so did sadness.

“Don’t leave me again Ash.” She curled into the fetal position, her heart felt as if it were tearing in 2 once more. “I can’t take losing you again. Never again.”

1865

She stared at the ceiling as she woke. She was too weak to move immediately. She thought about Ashton, and them, she knew it wasn’t always like this between them. It was 1865, they met by chance encounter once again. She sat quietly by the pond reading, it was just light enough but getting dark enough for her to enjoy the last few moments of Sunlight. She stopped a moment and looked across the water; it rippled slightly with the light breeze. She felt her hair brush lightly against her face. Her attention caught now by movement behind her.
“Madame, oh Madame” a young women ran to her she stood carefully so not to wrinkle her dress
“Oui?” she said smiling, the girl looked at her puzzled “Yes?”
“The guests, they are arriving” she was out of breath from running
“Thank you, I’ll only be a minute more” she smoothed her skirts and straighten the top of her dress. Pulling the sleeves back down around her arms, the cool air kissed her shoulders. The dress, a deep plum color looked good against her skin, although she thought it made her look more pale than she was, it still looked wonderful. Her hair was loose and hung to her lower back. Her jewelry was understated to her wealth; she only wore a bracelet and earnings of amethyst. She held the book to her chest as she watched the sun settle into bed for the night. She sighed, she missed that. She plastered the smile on her face. Walking into the hall, his scent had hit her she looked for him, but was unable to see him. She smiled as she greeted her guests.
“Valeera, as always a wonderful party”
“Well thank you Senator, I do the best I can”
“Tell me where is that wonderful friend of yours” he asked kissing her hand, she giggled slightly, the senator was quit taken with Chelle
“I believe she is in the study Senator” She walked away casually aware of his eyes on her. She smelled him again, this time on a breeze; she looked outside and saw no one. Walking quickly she was grabbed by hand after hand wanting to speak with her. She said hello and politely excused herself each time. Walking onto the terrace, she could feel him she shivered a bit; standing at the edge of the terrace she looked out into the dark night. He walked up quietly, the cigarette he smoked assault her nose. She held her head high and did not turn
“Hello ashton” She said quietly
“Valeera” His voice was gruff and soothing at the same time
“I don’t believe I saw your name on the guest list” she shook her fan loose now, slowly moving it across her face
“I’m here with a friend” he took a drag from his cigarette and released it, taking in the wonderful numbness it gave his tongue
“And who might that be?” She asked casually, she did not care and she wanted him to know it
“Countess ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬_________" he smiled now, taking another drag he threw it and looked at her. She turned slowly, she studied him, he looked wonderful in a black tuxedo that hugged him nicely, and she felt the fresh blood she had enjoyed earlier rush to her cheeks, clearing her throat
“The countess? My my how we have climbed Mr. Carrington” she looked at him and held out her hand, he gave her the cigarette she requested
“If anyone sees you, you didn’t get this from me” he told her as he lit the cigarette, her hand politely touched his, he was shocked at the warmth of it “You have fed this evening” he said taking a drag from his cigarette now
She turned now again facing the water. He brushed her hair off her shoulder, the sensation caused her to shiver “I will ask you to keep you hands to yourself sir” he released his hand slowly letting her hair fall
“Ashton?” the voice was shrill and young. Valeera turned and human. She looked at the countess and then to Ashton a look of panic in her eyes, Ashton caught the look
“I’ll be there in a moment my love, I am just thanking our hostess” he blew her a kiss, if Valeera could have thrown up, she would have.
Ashton looked at her
“Are you mad?” She asked
“I know what I am doing Veleera”
“Do you?”
He walked up to her and kissed her lightly, his lips covering hers fully, his hands found her bare arms, for a moment she relished in the feeling
“Aye” he breathed at her and walked away
“you kill us all if you are wrong” she called out to him, loud enough for only him to hear he looked at her, and smiled again. The party ended for the evening, most people were still more concerned with the cival war than big parties, although there was rumour it would be over soon. She said good night to her lasts guests and thanked the staff, heading to her room, his scent assaulted her again.
Smiling
“Won’t the countess be waiting for you Mr. Carrington?” she pulled her gloves off and laid them on her dresser.
“She’s tucked snuggly away”
“I see” she turned to face him he had made himself comfortable in her favaorite chair “This is a bit informal woulnd’t you say Mr Carrington?” she asked. He got up and smiled as he shut the heavy door
“I think we are past the formalities at this point” he took another drag of his cigerette walking up behind her he whisperd “don’t you?” some of the smoke engulfed her nose, she missed the feeling nicotine gave you, she scowled at the memory. Turning she looked him in the eyes. They trapped her, they always had. She shook her head focusing. Walking away from him she shook her hair loose letting it fall in waves past her back. As she shook her hair the scent of lavender surrounded him. He closed his eyes and took it in. He unwantingly growled a little. She walked back to him and whisperd to him
“Calm down wolf, after all, if i can do that with the just a shake of my hair, what will happen when you consumate your wedding night” she smiled and shook her head at him “you are mad you know that? A human women, how are you going to keep what you are from her?” it was a question she knew he could not answer, because he did not know himself.
“why are you so concernd about that Valeera?” he snarled at her, moving closer to her now, she backed up “what does it matter? If she ever finds out, i am sure she will have me killed, and that wll be it. How does that affect you?” he moved with her as she backed up. Against the dresser now she looked at his face. Moving slowly he kissed her hard, his mouth crushed on hers. She pushed him away hard, he stumbled. Putting his hands up so she could see them he stood in front of her. He licked his lips and smiled at her. She was angry at him.
“Why? Why do you do that to me? Do you like how miserable it makes me? That i can not obtain pleasure from a simple kiss?” she wipped her mouth on the sleeve of her dress.
He smirked again
“so it is pleasure you want from me Aye?”
“No Ashton” she already knew what he was going to suggest
“Valeera” he said walking back to her slowly, he lowerd his hands, reaching her he wrapped his hands around her waist “i want you to” She looked into his eyes, reading his thoughts, he begged.
“I.....I don’t know if i’ll be able to stop” she told him
“I trust you” He entangled his hands into her hair and pulled her to his mouth. The wolf inside him growled, low at first deep in his throat. She pushed her body into his. Biting his tounge slighlty she tasted the blood as it flowed from the wound. She sucked now, taking in all she could, she felt his power as it flowed into her body. He growled now as a defense pulling away from her he touched his tounge, his fingure came back red. “Good?” he asked, stammering back a bit, he was a little weaker now, the processes was always hard on him
Her cheeks flushed red, and for a moment she closed her eyes and let his power flow into her veins. She looked at him, her eyes a deep honey brown, having changed from the blue they were.
“I am” she walked to him, he leaned and kissed her lightly, walking with her to the bed, his mouth never leaving hers. Laying her down he looked into her eyes, seeing the human she once was, and the love for him she once had. He ran his hand over her face lightly touching her skin, she was warm now, having fed a little, her skin was the peachy color of a women, not the white of the creature she was. He trailed his finger against her lips, smiling she kissed the tips as each passed. He closed the curtains on the bed and laid beside her. She smiled as he lightly kissed her chest, his lips were light and gentle. His hand traveled up un-tieing the corset on the front of her dress, kissing him lightly, her hands found he had braided his hair for the party, shaking the band he wore loose, she buried her hands into the strands of red. Pulling her to him, he lifted her with ease and stood with her. He kissed her again harder this time. Leaving her mouth his mouth found her shoulder, kissing around to her back, unlacing her dress, his breath hot on her neck as he concentrated, she leaned into him his hands delicate, being careful. She knew he could just have eailsy ripped the dress off, she smiled at that thought. She moved her hair aside for him so it was a little easier.
“Sir, i assure you, i will not be gentle with you” she turned now to face him grabbing his coat and shirts, ripping them in two, smiling she kissed his chest lightly looking back at him she shrugged. He smiled grabbing her dress, he pulled it away from her body, she jerked slightly but did lose footing. He stepped back and marveled at her body, she was in nothing but white heels now. He smirked as he admired and she pounced as he let his blood fuel her body. She slammed into him hard, almost crushing him against the wall opposite of them. Air escaped his lungs quickly and his muscles tightened. She wrapped her hand around his member and began a fierce rhythm as her other hand held his wrists together. Slowly she wrapped her legs around his, entwining control over them. Her hand came away from his member and wrapped around his neck. She cut off no air flow, but held fast and strong enough so he couldn’t move his head. She slammed him into her with force and glee. She enjoyed the pain and pleasure at the same time as he groaned in a bit of pain. She slammed into him again and again with such force her eyes began to go oil black once again. His blood fueled her as she kept control over him. She could feel his body and his will beginning to rebel. “Yes, YES! Let him out Ashton.” She felt him balk and she slammed hard against him grinding as she did so. The pleasure was proving to much as she ground against him with a rhythm that played on all his nerve endings. She threw her head back as she heard the growl in his throat, and she tightened her grips. She could feel his legs tense but she fueled more power to her body holding him steadfast as she grinded against him with more ferocity of pleasure. She kept up the rhythm until she could feel his muscles tense to the point of threatening change. Then she slammed into him again, letting go of her control. He was quick to respond as he grabbed her waist and slammed into her. Quickly he kept his thrusts going, deep and hard and she groaned. She felt the heat below and her body was threatening to orgasm. She tried to hold it back as it would take more blood than she wanted to let go at this time but she could hold it no longer as he thrust into her as deep as he could. Her legs flexed out and she threw her head back letting out a scream. Then her head found his arm as he continued once again, a howl eminating from his vocal chords. She drank liberally from him as his rhythm increased. She could feel the muscles on him bulge as the fur began to take over his smooth skin. She relished the feeling as he delved into her deeper and deeper. She threw her head back on more time, blood splattering against the wall and screamed as he howled in mutual orgasm.

Vampire Scent

"Morons" she said aloud as she tossed the book to the floor. She despised reading the new things people wrote about, but did it to keep up on the latest news. She slumped in her chair, uneasy and restless. Her meeting with Ashton this evening had her worried. The Alzu was something she had never personally had to deal with, and she didn’t know how to handle it. The fact something was invading her mind so, also bothered her. She stood and walked to her window, opening it she let some cool air in, the scent was almost over whelming. She only fed when absolutely nessesery but that didn't stop the thurst she felt constantly. She missed the days when she could feed and no one would notice the person missing. These days, it was harder. She took in the scent of the people below her, arching her body she let it invade her being. Her body racked with the pain of needing to feed. She was getting used to that pain. She inhaled deeply now, catching his scent. Coming back to reality she turned slowly.
"Ashton"
"Valeera" he said smiling he walked toward her slowly, taking his coat off he laid it over a chair, he sat casually as though he should be there
"What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to discuss the matter at hand further" he said calmly
"And which matter do you speak of? The rival clan trying to take over, or the rat people"
"I don't think you fully understand the magnitude of this Valeera, this threat is bigger than each of us alone, if we combine forces, perhaps we can win"
"We discussed that already Ashton, and I agreed" She did not like they were on the same side, it made her life very difficult. She had made a habit of hating him, hate she had discovered, was easier.
"Did you?" he knew her better than she liked to admit "Or did you just say that thinking it made me vulnerable?" He smirked at her. Thoughts of them invaded his mind. She was dressed in a tank top and shorts, nothing else. Her hair was loose, assaulting him with the scent of lavender. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. She swallowed hard, hating he could read her so well.
""I will do what is necessary for my clan, and myself. I told you I would help you, that alone should be good enough" she turned away from him. He moved faster than she had time to react. He was on her, pushing her into the wall. His breath forced. He was on her back holding her arms against the wall, her cheek against the wall itself. "Your temper gets the better of you Ashton"
He put his weight against her and she almost moaned. His groin pressed harder against her, his hands wrapped tightly around her wrists and his mouth close to her ear, his breath hitting her neck. As much as she hated to admit it to herself, she absolutely loved this. He could feel her muscles twitch in enjoyment, as her behind tightened and loosened against his weight. He smiled to himself, pressing against her so she could feel what was constrained in his jeans. She bit her lower lip trying to bring the hate back up into her being. She was failing and they both knew it. Instead of pressing the matter further he whispered in her ear, something that would get the rise out her he wanted.
"You try my patience women, I could rip you apart and your clan would be unable to stop me, I could end this whole charade of us being friends, or whatever it is we think we were. I could end it now." She could feel his grip tighten, though his groin had backed away from her behind. She had to ignore every instinct of pressing her ass outward to find it’s welcoming warmth and weight
"I beg of you…..do it......if you have ever loved me, you would do it" "I beg of you…..do it......if you have ever loved me, you would do it" her response completely surprised him. He loosened his grip, and she knew he was remembering them so long ago. She took advantage throwing her weight back into him. Her elbow caught him in the mouth and he staggered back, still in a bit of shock. She hit him again with a punch directly in the mouth. His head snapped back and then slowly came forward. A smile across his now bleeding lips. "You forget your place wolf" She could see the fight flash in his eyes, he was getting ready to attack. She readied herself but he was too quick. He tackled her quickly slamming her body into the ground. He straddled her, his face to hers, teeth bared. He was in the dominant position now, and he was letting her know it.


"And you forget yours leech" for a moment she was lost to his power, she did not want to hurt him, and in fact doubted she could "All I want to do is make a truce with you, why must everything with you be so damned difficult?"

"And you forget yours women" for a moment she was lost to his power, she did not
"You know as well as I" she challenged
He released her arms, slowly got up and offered his hand, she accepted almost pulling him back down. She stood now, looking at him, she saw his lip was bleeding from where she had punched him her desire to feed started to take over her
"You need to leave Ashton" she felt the pain of needing to feed taking over, her fangs come through, her eyes turned from their coral blue to oil black. Ashton felt what was happening, he had after all been her meal before, he knew the signs.
"I can feed you" he told her
She smiled at him
"I don't think that is a good idea Ashton, you and I both know what happens next" she doubled over in pain. He walked to her now, slowly so she knew he wasn't trying to take advantage of her vulnerability. Lifting her he carried her to her bedroom, he laid her down and laid next to her, rolling up the sleeve of his shirt he offered his arm.
"No" she argued
"Valeera, you need to feed, you have no time to find someone, I can help you" he stroked her hair
She wanted to argue and fight, but she knew he was telling the truth. She had only moments until the pain was so debilitating it would paralyze her. Reluctantly she pulled herself to him.
"Your chest would be better" she told him "This bite will leave a mark remember"
He had in fact forgotten, he sat up and pulled the shirt he was wearing off. Her mind was to fuzzy to take him in completely but what she could focus on made her mind race. He was the sight of pure perfection. His chest massive with the body that held a wolf inside. He laid back now taking her with him. She rested her head on his chest for a moment, she listened to his heartbeat, she could hear his heart pumping his blood through his veins, the sound was inviting and familiar, smiling she sank her teeth as close to his heart as she could. The blood rushed into her mouth, she drank greedily from him, sucking hard. He grunted in pain as her teeth connected, The pain was excruciating, he grabbed onto the bed sheets for support, but wanted to tear her head from his body. She felt him tense under her bite. She smiled. It was always more satisfying when her meal was uncomfortable. She could ease the pain if she wanted, it was a simple mind game really, but she liked the fact that Ashton was feeling pain. He grew weak from her feeding, fearing complete loss of control he spoke
"Valeera" he whispered "you must stop"
She ignored him, her need to feel his blood in her mouth muted anything he said
"Valeera, please"
It was the please that made her realize what she was doing. Stopping she pulled away from him. He looked down and grimaced when he saw the puncture marks.
"Ow" he smiled at her "That pain never gets easier does it?" he laid back a moment
"Sorry" her eyes locked with his a moment "I'll be back" she left him in the bed, going into the bathroom she soaked a towel in warm water, washing her mouth off she rinsed it again. Walking back to him the light from the bathroom soaking her, she stopped when she saw Ashton smiling
"What?" she asked
"Nothing…..It's just….with the light behind you there, you look like an angel" he grimaced again
"Far from it" she walked to him and laid the towel on the marks
"Ah, hot. hot" he said as the towel connected
"It will help slow the bleeding" she said tenderly he watched her as she tended him. Her cheeks were flushed now, she had color in her face. Her movements precise and focused. Without thinking he put his hand to her face, lightly touching her, she backed away quickly. Looking at him.
"You know better" she warned
"Aye, I do" grabbing her by the hair now, he pulled her face to his, his lips connected to hers "doesn't mean I follow the rules" he kissed her again, with meaning this time, he crushed his mouth on hers, she greedily accepted. He leaned up now, pulling her to him, she fit perfectly in his arms, as though they were made to hold her. She held him tightly, he released her mouth now, moving to her neck he nuzzled her first taking In her scent, underneath the perfume and lotion she wore was her the vampire, the wolf in him threatened to come, her scent caused the automatic reaction in him. He growled slightly.
Biting into her neck he growled again. A slight trickle of blood flowed from the wound, grabbing her by the arms, he forced her under him, looking at her now, she could feel he pain he held.
"I can't" grabbing his shirt he walked out. She heard the door close. Staring at the ceiling she sighed. She would have cried if she could have. Instead she put the pillow on her face and screamed The hatred they felt for each other was only going to end when one of them died, and even then, she doubted they could be at totally at peace.

The decision

“All right, I’ll see you in the morning” Valeera waited until she saw Anna’s light turn on. Smiling she turned back towards the bar. She couldn’t go back in and be seen leaving with anyone, but she was ok with that, she could see in the window, her meal was leaving anyway. Ashton felt her and looked up, a smile formed across his face. He looked at the guy that had grabbed her before she left and shook his head. The guy walked out of the bar, barley able to stand he searched for his keys. Valeera walked to him casualy and smiled, she had unbuttoned the first two buttons of her blouse and she knew it would have the affect she needed. “You need a ride?” She asked her voice soothed him, he looked up at her and smiled
“Yeah I think I do” he put the keys back in his pocket
She hailed a cab and helped him in
“Do I know you?” he asked
“No, but I think you want to, you grabbed my arm in the bar earlier” she pressed her body into his she sat so he could see into her blouse, he licked his lips, and she could hear blood the blood in his veins. She leaned into his neck and licked him lightly, closing her eyes, she was finding it difficult to not bite him now, but the cab driver proved a problem. He was watching them too closely. He had not seen her face, and she wanted to keep it that way, she would not need both of them. She could take them easily, but she didn’t like to kill more than she needed. The man next to her put his hand in her blouse and squeezed her breast, it caught her attention, and she didn’t like it. Looking at him, she smiled. He cab came to a halt, kicking the cab driver in the head, she knocked him out. Grabbing the man she opened the door and slammed him into a wall. He slumped to the ground and moaned. She smiled as she exited the cab. Grabbing him, she tossed him into the ally and watched as he sat in the fetal postion from the pain. She knelt by him and smiled again.
“Wanted to be a bad ass in the bar, you know, women don’t like that” she licked her lips and her fangs came slowly. He looked at her in terror, it was a look she loved, she liked it when they were scared, it made it sweeter. The blood pumped faster. She picked him up again and held him by the shirt against the wall.
“Now repeat after me, I will never grab another women again”
He started to cry
“Eh, that’ll do” she sank her teeth into his neck, and relished as the blood flowed into her mouth, she
licked him lightly and sucked harder, his body convulsed in her hands, she sucked until his pulse
stopped. She knew the rule, she wanted more, but you do not suck once the pulse stops. She licked
her lips, and let him fall. She doesn’t have to kill them, she knows that, but this one, she wanted to.

She sighed as she walked into her apartment. Flicking on the lights she looked around. Leaning against the door she closed her eyes again, thinking of Ashton she smiled, she almost felt warmth in her cheeks, and she relished it. She knew it was the warmth of the new blood flowing through her body, but for a moment she remembered what it was like to be one of the sheep. Her smile faded as her mind wrapped around the fact he had blatantly shown up unannounced into her territory. She growled to herself, shaking her head. A pack of dogs was in her territory and she didn’t have the clan rip them apart. Anger surged through her as she threw open her door once again. It ripped from it’s hinges and flew from her hand. She sighed deeply and shook her head. She needed to remember not to do that. If that bastard didn’t have a good excuse, he was gonna pay with his hide, and so were his dogs.

“Damn it!” She walked to her bedroom changing quickly. She threw on a purple trench coat as she laced up her boots, making sure her silver daggers were hidden well within. Satisfied she walked to the hole, where her front door used to be. Two of her male children were standing guard. They looked to her awaiting her orders. This was nothing new to them. “make some calls, and bring silver.” she threw her phone a them “I want everyone, there are some dogs that need to learn to obey.”
she hurried down the stairs her leather coat seemingly to float behind her. She walked quickly and only looked at her men when she heard one of them on the phone.

She watched him through the window of the bar. His pack was no longer there, it was only him. How stupid. He was now nothing but an easy meal ticket if she could get him into an area suitable. The bar was pretty much empty. The waitress was still talking to him, but he paid little attention to her, only watched out the window, a slight smirk on his face. She growled again and headed for the door. She entered, his grin widened. She waved the waitress off, setting her hands on the table she looked him straight in the eyes, staring.

“So what’s this about?” her voice was very near a growl, it was light and no one else heard.

“What no Hello?”

“Are you kidding me? You come into my territory unannounced, with your dogs, and you stare me down?” her face was directly in his now. She could smell the wolf on him, and the fear entered again. A werewolf was more deadly than anything she’d ever come across. They were far beyond dangerous, and cunning. She quelled it quickly letting the anger rise in her. He watched the anger flow through her with a smirk on his face. He took a moment to take her in, she had changed from earlier, she now wore leather pants, and a white t-shirt, he could see the outline of the lace bra she wore
underneath it but only what wasn’t coverd by the puple trench coat she wore. His smile widened.

“Ashton answer me” she put her hand on him, as soon as it connected she knew it was a mistake. He grabbed her suddenly and slammed her against he farthest wall in the bar. His lips were at her ear and he growled deeply. She heard the sudden cock of a shotgun and smiled. Her eyes changed from blue to a dark red. She was threatened but knew even he would not really do anything. She heard the howls from outside the bar and knew that they were just outside of her territory line. She looked to him
from the corner of her eye and smiled again. “Oh come now” she said matter of factly, raising her arms to waist level. At least 30 vampires entered through the door surrounding him. Her second in commend, Chelle, was a little closer to her, but still within Ashton’s reach, for her own protections Valeera waved her back a few more steps. She knew Ashton, and this was probably not enough, but she didn’t back down. “see, I can do it too” the growl came again and he looked to her boots, she
knew he could smell the silver. He let her down from the wall and then took the others in with a smile.

“Such a wonderful welcome I must say.” His voice was calm yet she could sense the small amount of fear. If he wasn’t in here alone, there would have been none, she was sure of that. He walked back towards his table. “Though I must say, the scent of silver is overwhelming. You need better ventilation.” Chelle stepped in front of him, but he didn’t even lose stride. He scooped her ease, throwing her towards her compadre’s. He was still a stubborn and idiotic fool. Valeera raised her hand suddenly as she saw her children move towards him. He picked up his drink and turned to her, his face
now serious. “We are chasing an Azlu.”

“What’s an Azlu?” She rhetored, trying to keep her clan at bay.

“It’s a spider, for the most part. Though it takes control of it’s host, turning it into something even the devil wouldn’t call his own. They are nasty, and from what we understand, she’s got a few .. Friends in town here.” He paused and finished off his drink then looked back to her. “We’ve tracked to here, and have found Azlu, and Beshilu have also been noticed.” Valeera growled. She knew the Beshilu, freaking rat swarms that infected their hosts, and then ate them from the inside out leaving nothing but a
hulking skin controlled by rats, and those weren’t even the worse of them.

“Why are they here?” She leaned her back against the wall as she ran her finger over her lips. She did this frequently when she was in thought. Her clan should have known these creatures had moved into her territory. Already she had the feeling of eyes on her, and she didn’t like it. Those beady rat eyes, undressing your skin from it’s muscle. There were already a lot of things she had to deal with, an opposing clan of vampire was already trying to muscle in on her, now these spiders and rats. She smiled suddenly looking to Ashton as he answered. She could use his help on this rival clan, he’d be perfect, though how could she get him to do it without linking it back to her?

“Seems you are prime for the pickens.” He watched her, closely, she was plotting something. Though taking care of this swarm of Azlu, and maybe picking apart some Bishilu is exactly what his pack needed. Their renown had already spread pretty deep across the wolves territory and this would just help increase it, peace was almost at his disposal, even though he and pack did not own territory. They never had a need for it, jumping across territories following these Azlu earned them their passage. “Now, can we get to our duties?”

Chelle looked at Ashton and whispered into Valera’s ear. Valeera nodded in agreement.
“If I help you, we do things my way” she told him matter of factly
Ashton chocked on his drink, looking at her
”Help me? Your way?” he stood now walking close he snarled at her “let me be very clear I do not need your help, I am more powerful than you could ever hope to be” she felt his rage, and she liked it.
Smiling she leaned into him whispering
“That may be, but this is my territory, and now you’re in it, so you follow me” looking in his eyes now she could see the animal he held back, she didn’t want him to hold back
Grabbing her by the throat, he pushed her into the wall, hard, her body causing it to cave a bit, cheap structcher. She did not struggle and chelle held her clan back, she looked at him calmly, and chuckled
“You cannot hurt me, remember that” he looked away for a moment and then back
“You try my patience women” he squeezed harder now “I do not need you, I could end you now, she would never survive without you” using his head he pointed towards Chelle. Valeera knew he was right. Her clan would fall apart without her. “The sun will be rising soon” he let her go, she stood defiantly
Looking at him, she did not speak, only turned with her clan following. As she reached the door Ashton called after her
“What say you women?”
“Aye” and she walked out
Chelle caught up with her quickly
“That was nothing more than two old lovers trying to cover how they feel about each other” Valeera hissed at her and with a swift motion backhanded her into the wall, she was on top of Chelle before she even had a chance to stand, Valeera’s fangs and nails grew, she was furious, holding Chelle under the chin with her nails
“You dare question me? Remember whom you are dealing with Vampire, I run this city, I run you no one questions me, are we clear?”
Chelle nodded at her
“He thinks he’s in charge, which is exactly what I wanted” she let Chelle down and her teeth and nails retracted. The other vampires tried to help Chelle stand, she pushed them away. Valeera made a mental note; Chelle would need to be replaced.

The meeting

She sat staring as rain splashed against the window with a bit of force, she hated the rain, she hated how it made her feel and the memories it brought up. She played with her wine glass, slowly tracing the circle opening of it. It rang beautifully against her light touch, tipping it slightly as she rounded the top. She liked wine, she had learned to like it over the years, but tonight she wasn’t in the mood to drink.

“You ok?” her friend leaned into her, the noise in the bar was horrendous and hurt her ears. Snapping back into reality she smiled. The bar itself was dimly lit, which she liked, hid her unnatural paleness. It was loud however, some band she wasn’t up to date with slamming tunes into the air like she wanted to do to their heads. She heard the heartbeats of everyone in here, and smell the blood from those that had minor cuts or abrasions, it was driving her desire to the point of no return. 800 years and the desire never faded. She hated this life, yet loved it all the same.

“I’m fine” her smile faded as the sudden, uneasy feeling of being trapped engulfed her senses. She hunkered deeper into the chair. The bar now seemed darker, deadlier, more grave like than she felt comfortable with. Her eyes widened as his smell entered her nostrils. It had been almost 800 years since she had seen him. They had not left on good terms, and being opposites of survival, they were not about to stick around and chat with each other. She turned quickly looking for the nearest exit, a moment to late. Her gaze went to the door, fear screaming through her veins. She hated that feeling,
she was a predator, and she always felt like the prey when they were around. Her friends gaze followed, and there he stood.

“Oh my god” she said quietly “who is that?” she smiled and adjusted her hair her eyes never leaving the man at the door.

Valeera took a drink of her wine, gulping it down she cleared her throat, looking away, not wanting to draw his attention.

“His name is Ashton Holden” she stared at him, his presence was more than she could bear right now.

“So you know him?”

“Aye” Her friend looked at her a smirk crossing her face.

“Aye? What the hell is aye? What are you a pirate now?”

“Sorry, yes I do know him” Valeera sat up straight in her chair, she knew it wouldn’t be long before he felt her, if he hadn’t already. She watched him, carefully. He was here with friends and she knew that would be to her advantage, as just like her, his need to fit in was greater than anything else, it’ what kept them alive. They laughed as they sat in chairs. She took another large gulp of wine, it had no effect on her, and she wished it did. As always he was the life if the party, joking with everyone he came into contact with, she watched as the waitress brought them their drinks, she eyed Ashton, hungrily. Valeera smiled to herself ‘Oh sweetie, you have no idea’ she kept the thought in her head, but with grace and ease, his head came up and his fell directly on her. If she had a heart beat, it would have stopped. They locked eyes for a moment, she held up her glass and toasted him. Grabbing his drink he walked over. Her friend squirmed in her chair, Valeera chuckled to herself, humans were so easy.

“Hello Valeera” his voice was calm and soothing, she could get lost in that voice. She couldn’t help but love the hidden growl it held.

“Ashton” she nodded “this is a friend of mine Anna”

“A friend?” a bit of shock in his voice, Valeera glared at him “it’s a pleasure to meet you Anna” he took her hand and bowed slightly. Anna giggled like a child, taking his hand. Valeera could hear her heart beat increase at just his touch, and she couldn’t help but miss it. A bit of jealousy entered her and she crushed it with pleasure. It had been 800 years, it was not about to win out this time.

“Oh it’s my pleasure I’m sure” Ashton smiled lightly at her, nodded lightly and then turned his attention to Valeera.

“You’re looking well” tonight she had opted for jeans and a blouse, a ruby red color that looked good against her pale skin, her hair down in waves.

“As are you” she wasn’t lying. How could she? He was almost every woman’s fantasy in flesh and blood. He had cut his hair to fit in better, but it was still the deep red she loved. His body was massive, intimidating and welcoming all at the same time. She took another gulp of wine, trying to suppress the attraction. He watched her a moment, his eyes playing over hers. There was still something there, that they could not deny, but they hid it rather well. His face suddenly changed to that maw, saliva dripping,
his eyes raging anger. His body soon followed, His maw suddenly snapping at her face. She jolted lightly coming back to the reality of the situation. He turned lightly as the whole table of his friends watched her with eyes of steel. She recognized Cole and Ank. Cole was calm, his head cocked to one side. His black hair was neatly cut and he was in a business suit, which seemed odd for him, but really how would she know. She’d only met cole once. Then there was Ank. A beautiful red head,
green eyes that pulled almost any male in, not to mention a very close friend of Ashtons. She smiled lightly at Valeera and nodded her head in a greeting. Valeera returned the gestures as the fear played around in her body. She knew they could smell it and it irritated her. Ashton looked back to the table and then back to Valeera. He smiled softly.

“It is good to see you again Valeera. This was an unexpected pleasure.” he looked to Anna, his smile widened. “It was a pleasure to meet you as well Anna. I am sorry that I do not have the time to chat more with you two astounding ladies. I do however, have prior engagements.” His eyes found Valeera’s once more and he stood suddenly. “I do hope we’ll meet again soon.” With that he walked back to his friends, but she could see him watching her from the corner of his eyes.

“Valeera?” Anna’s puzzled look and voice brought Valeera’s attention back. She smiled at her friend and shook her head.

“It’s a family name, and old fashioned, which is why I go by Vale” finishing the wine, she stood. The waitress had gone back to the table, and was eating up the attention that Ashton gave her. Her hand found his arm, his muscle flexed for just a moment, but she saw his eyes betray what his body was speaking. Valeera watched for a moment more, the waitress was pretty, petite with a nice body. Her blonde hair was short exposing her neck, as she played with the necklace she wore, Valeera breathed
deeply, she could almost taste the waitress on her lips. She was hungry and weak; she had not fed all day.

“You ready?” Anna had stood now too, gathering her purse she looked at Valeera ‘Oh wow, are you ok?”

“Yeah I’m good” Valeera took another moment to relish in the waitress then gathered her things and walked past Ashton, he smelled her as she walked by, and smiled. She looked over her shoulder to him, their eyes locking again. Her senses were honed and she easily sidestepped those that were in her way. Her eyes flashed sudden red as an unknown male touched her arm and swung her around towards him. Ashton’s full attention was suddenly on her, though Valeera couldn’t see it. Her anger surged, a sneer crossing her lips she suppressed the instinct to rip his throat from his neck. She pulled her arm free of his grasp with a bit of force and shot Ashton one more look. She was furious, the darkness inside of her grasping, clawing, aching to get out and extract it’s revenge. She heard the male mumbling something, but cared little for what he had to say. She turned gracefully, every single one of her muscles flexed and ready for action. A false adrenaline rush was never good for the instincts, and if she didn’t hurry and get away from the temptation, she’d have to give in. She looked suddenly to the
man that grabbed her, making a mental note of his face. He was going to feel wrath tonight, and she was gonna taste his fear. She walked to the door where Anna was waiting. She threw her jacket on, still feeling the eyes of Ashton, and she knew he was smiling. The stare went away as soon as she turned to look at him one more time. He was laughing with his dogs, and that waitress. A twofer was not out of the question this evening.

She walked with Anna silently, the rain had let up a bit which Valeera was thankful for. Anna broke the silnce
“So how do you know that guy?” Valeera could feel her heart race again
“We go way back, old old friends” she smiled at the joke
“How come I have never seen him before then?”
“Cause it’s been 800 years since I saw him last” mostely to herself, catching it “It seems, it seems like 800 years” She was thankful they had reached Anna’s apartment building, the subject of Ashton was never an easy one for her.