Post by Thalas on Mar 21, 2015 10:58:31 GMT -5
Rome.. a city alive with sound and movement, with age and youth. Voices raised in laughter, in argument.. somewhere in the distance one could here the soft baritone of a singer breaking into song.. probably one of those guys on the gondalas.. Nexie had waited anxiously for daylight to come, nearly ready to climb the walls. Thalas wouldn't tell here why he'd brought them there, nor why he'd ordered her to stay inside. She just couldn't do it a moment longer. She was only gonna go for a bit. Just a bit of fresh air, some food at the market, the need for freedom like a toothache that just never stopped.. besides she reasoned.. she'd wear a disguise.. a scarf, some dark glasses.. loose clothing.. check check and check...
Since being on the road, they shared a room. Everything that they had, everything he was willing to bring with him, placed into a large travel suitcase. There was a leather doctor's bag that clicked with the sound of glass when it was moved. At noon, he was asleep, which meant he might as well have been dead. His breath was so shallow, his stillness making him more like a statue than a slumbering body. If anyone knew, it was her. She'd better be back before he woke up.
He never had to know.. after all, no one was looking for her where they? She had it all worked out as the door clicked open, the wash of sun warming her skin as she slipped out and shut the door behind her, as quiet as a mouse. Reminiscent of the days of old when getting in and out unheard and unseen meant everything. She pauses on the doorstep, taking in the bustle of sight and sound. The throng of humanity. Unable to detect any sort of threat, she began to walk towards the market square. Her step picking up a spring as she went, her shoulders straightening as she absorbed the sense of freedom...
Ever since the beginning of, well, whatever it was he had gotten himself into, Thalas had been strict with her about where she went and who she talked to. Thomas was, apparently, additionally hired help to Starless, which should have given her more free time except that he had insisted she stay there, closer than she ever had. It did not come with the sense that he was madly in want of her, but that he was watching over her carefully. It was the first time in weeks that she was completely without him, or what he was doing. No throng of vampires, plotting and smoking at the bar. There were people, laughing, buying bread, carrying on with their lives as she had once done.
An hour passes then another as she wanders the market.. growing more comfortable as she goes.. Spying a vibrant silk of green she forgets for the moment who she is, where she is and the sense of urgency and secrecy that Thalas has been displaying.. the old scarf is yanked off as she tries on the green silk, enjoying the feel of it against her face.. Smiling to the vendor as she pays him and turns.. it was then, that it hit her.. that feeling of being watched... that sense of dread that she had just made a monumental mistake. Eyes, as green as that scarf that now marked her like a target on her back, skitter about as she tries to find the source for that feeling. Moving cautiously through the throng in hopes of loosing herself in it and making her way back "home"... her heart begins to patter rapidly, her breathing shallow as her steps quicken.. a glance behind her to see people being bumped aside out of the way of the goons moving closer.. dropping all pretense she breaks into a run.
Passing cobblestone alleys, so narrow that you could barely walk two abreast, her eyes darting about for an escape.. almost feeling their breaths on her neck, she's started into a gasp as a hand yanked her into one such alley, and back into a darkened doorway.. a hand slapped over her mouth painfully, she felt the bite of copper in her mouth where teeth and lips met.
"Stupid bitch.. " a voice growls into her ear as she's pressed back further. Sorta surprised that the body covering hers is female.. she stiffens and begins to struggle only to realize that the woman holding her was much taller and pure muscle. Another growl "Still", then silence as they both heard the beat of feet going past them.
What felts like hours.. but where only moments pass before the woman steps back and Nex gets her first look at her.. She was amazingly tall, at least six feet. Hair dark as night, almost blue so black was it. Skin that was definitely Native American, and eyes of such a pale blue they looked silver. So cold was the gaze and so harsh that Nex had to wonder if she'd been saved or condemned.
"Does your Master know your out and about, blowing his cover like this?" Again the woman growled as she walked (or rather stalked) to the alley's opening to look out. Nexie was left looking for a weapon.. like anything short of a hammer was going to do much good here.. a very very big hammer.
Just as she was taking a step to run, the woman turned back to her, a slender brow arching as arms crossed over her chest. A shake of her head, a sigh and she was returning, "I'll just catch you." Of course she would with those impossibly long legs of hers. "I'm Storm... of the Lakota pack... " the eyes narrowed as she grasped Nexie's arm and began dragging her through the opposite end of the alley and out.. "Get your skinny white ass back to him and ya tell him, I want to talk... "
Nexie stopped and turned.. now that she was back out in public a bit of the bravado was returning.. "And why should I?"
"Aside from the fact that i just saved your ass, you mean?" The woman's voice dropped and she stepped forward... and ok... Nexie was neither that brave or that stupid. She took a step back, "He's got something I want, as alpha... and maybe... we can help each other. Now ya better git before they double back. " Turning away she seems to just melt into the throng, which for a woman of her size seemed impossible. Nexie wasn't going to stand there contemplating it though... the scarf was removed, the old placed back iin its place and brisk steps had her quickly making her way home.
The sound of the clock ticking on the wall was impossibly loud to him. Like a mechanical heart beat that was counting off the time in the room. There was no soft, organize sounds coming from Nexie to buffer the noise. Ultimately, that was what woke him. The shadows were low on the horizon, what little light coming through the window was a deep orange promise of the evening. When his eyes opened they sharpened on his surroundings and he sat up. He knew already that she was out of the room, just by the fact that he couldn't hear her. That didn't mean that he wasn't going to look. When he rose out of bed he moved to the bathroom and checked the closets.
He dressed quickly, showing an indifference to his appearance that had suited him in his younger years, when it was more of a petulant, disrespectful show than one of being legitimately hurried. Pants, belt, shoes. The grey, silver button up shirt half way buttoned up as he pulled on a leather jacket. At this point, he was just stepping out of their room. His nostrils flared, looking to find a hint of her to direct him.
She slipped in as quietly as she'd left. Not sure how to tell Thalas about her little adventure, actually contemplating not mentioning it at all. He was going to be so angry with her... She was dreading this, but knew she didn't have much of a choice. Taking a deep breath, a vain attempt to calm nerves already harried. Maybe he'd just throw her out.
It was in the doorway that he met her. His white hand wrapped around the edge of it, grey eyes fixed for blood and offense. It had surprised him that she was there, a surprise that appeared in his gaze as a momentary widening of his gaze that disappeared quickly. His body withdrew, his hand on her wrist, pulling her in and bringing the door shut behind her. He locked it, using both locks on the door and turning on her. It always seemed like he was taller when he was displeased, "Were you not to stay here?"
Damn, caught.. she gulped and gaped, struggling to respond. Fear had her heart stuttering once more, she really hated making him angry, it flogged her soul when she did so. "I uh... I had to get out, I'm sorry, I was going insane... " no excuse but then anger took hold, "Why? Why must I stay in, why are we hiding?" she still hesitates to tell him of the events at the market.
Cold, bone white fingers were still wrapped around her wrist, the pressure of it a reminder that he had a hold on her. When she said she had to get out his grip tightened, "Then that's something we talk about or do together. You must be with me, always." Before the sensation of his grasp became too much it relaxed, suddenly releasing her. When she asked if they were in hiding he snorted, shrugging off his jacket and throwing it on top of the foot of the bed, "We are trying to keep a low profile." Was that a yes?
She frowned at his words, rubbing her wrist, though there was no pain. She had felt the anger in that grip. Moving past him to pour herself a drink, she downed with one shot.. Taking a deep breath she kept her back to him.. "I was followed... I think. Two men.. I managed to escape them, with a bit of help," the words mumbled quickly... inwardly wincing at what was to come.
"Foolish," the word sounding like a clip of his teeth. His sidelong, salty gaze on her, fixed on her form and how she moved through a story that sounded full of secrets and lost details that he would have needed to know. "Help?" He arched a brow at her when she said it, "There's no such thing as help." Spoken from someone who had survived vampire politics for too long. The good Samaritan was a myth, there was only the self serving. Was she out of money? There was no smell of blood or sex on her, so if that had been what was bartered it was not yet what she had paid. Sinking into the hotel chair he looked at her expectantly.
She mulled over the words about how she must stay with him, and for a brief moment allowed herself to think that he actually cared for her.. maybe even loved her. Just as quickly she dashed those thoughts.. he'd never care for her as she did for him. That was to be her lot in life.. "Said her name was Storm, some pack.. I cant recall.. I think she was an alpha?" She turned then to gauge his reaction.. "She wants to meet with you.. something about you having something she wants.. and perhaps she can aid you in return.. " she moved towards him then, all grace and little guile.. deep green eyes locked upon his smokey grey.. searching for anything, some sign of forgiveness.. of understanding.
"Alpha?" Another snort and he looked away from her, his thoughts angling back and forth. An elbow perched on the arm rest of the chair, the hand brought to his mouth as he contemplated. Something she wants. His attention went back to Nexie, "I have something a lot of people want." It hadn't meant to be suggestive. When she stepped to him his eyes narrowed, fractionally, then his hand moved from his mouth, two fingers flicking to signal that she come closer to him, "When something is so desirable, it is nothing to kill those that have it so that it might belong to another."
A soft sigh of breath escape at his summons, she steps closer yet, within his reach. So very close now. And while she may be standing over him, she was in no way the dominant here and she knew it. "Why did you bring me?" she had to ask that. Had to know.
"I prefer you alive," he stood up and leaned in. It seemed, at first, that he might kiss her. Warmth was never the indicator that he was near. There was the smell of him and now, the exhale of his breath along her neck after her had scented her. Nexie had the smell of other people on her-- and was that hint of something else the new scarf, or the Alpha? He reached to her neck and drew the original scarf off, laying it on the chair behind him before he tried, again. A vampire did not have the nose of a werewolf, but both were hunters. Whatever bit of information he could take from her was necessary.
She froze as he neared, shivering softly, her body flushing. The scent of him, the feel of his breath along her neck. She had to bite back a moan as the scarf was slipped off and he returned, unable to anticipate his next move or even why he was nuzzling her, she remained still and quiet.
"Word travels fast," he observed, leaning back to take her by the chin. His eyes were unblinking and steady to convey the severity of what he meant though she never thought of him as joking and light hearted about any such matters, "If you do that again, I'll kill you myself. The less you know, the better." His hand released her face and he sat back down in the chair, looking up at her and then towards the door, "Did she arrange a time and place, this... Alpha?"
A swallow of fear at his threat, very real and very much felt. She knew he'd have no problem taking her out and yeah her heart smashed a bit by his words. "No, she didnt... " she moved away from him, sensing his displeasure. "I would imagine she'll find us, or is expecting you to find her." Fists clenched, honestly how much more of this self abuse could she take.. it wasn't like she hadn't known what he'd be like. She had tried hard never to fool herself into thinking he'd ever come to care about her.
His eyes went to her. Lips hardly moved, yet a frown was expressed, "Find us?" Eyebrows lifted and he turned to look at the window. "We should pack out things and find another hotel." Whatever he was up to, it wasn't like when he was at Starless and people had a location to find him. He wanted to be displaced and unknown. He rose, stepping around her to get to the bathroom and collect what personal affects they had in there. He tossed them on the bed, "Are you ready? Get your things."
She blinked, then again before moving to obey. Her things where minimal and easily gathered. The urgency was a bit daunting though. But she would not question him. He'd always looked out for her, much like you would a stray cat that just wouldn't stop coming around. She would take what she got, because that was her nature.. she'd never learned to expect more from anyone.
He was minimal, usually. There wasn't a sense about him that clothes or items were important. That was partly why it was strange that his bag that he took was a larger one. There were either additional items in it, or he was bringing enough things with them that there wasn't much intention of returning to Starless soon. Once their bags were in order he turned to look at her, arching one brow as if to ask if she were ready. Once given any indication, he opened the door and stepped through, waiting for her. Hotels could be confusing places, so many creatures were always coming and going. With someone trying to get his attention at least he knew to be wary of even the small indicators, "There is a place not far from here I think will have a vacancy."
"Yes Sir, " she all but whispered as she moved to follow. No argument.. not resistance. He didn't need her but she would stay. Out into the darkness, the sense of being surrounded was almost overwhelming, was it her imagination in hyperdrive? Stepping closer to him, her hand slipped around his free arm.
There were always, and only, brief moments between them. Sometimes one missed it from the other. The touch on his arm made his head turn to look at her as if not expecting her to reach for him. The motion felt strangely intimate, the way he saw lovers grasp to one another while they laughed on a date. But it wasn't a date and neither were laughing and his look betrayed a second-lived concern for her that dipped and disappeared behind the tide of his gaze. He walked them, quickly, to the elevator and then to the front desk where they checked out. That was the easy part, it was stepping outside that made his shoulders draw back as if posturing for some unseen watcher.
She followed, keeping pace with him so as not to hinder him. Vigilant as they stepped out into the darkness. Releasing his arm as he straightened and taking a step back. She'd only get in the way if he needed to defend. Eyes skittered about as they moved. That sense of foreboding only worsening. It wouldn't be long before he would likely pick up on anyone following them.
Two bags. A larger one and then the leather one, sitting on top of it. The suitcases counted off the cobblestones. He looked distracted, his head slightly bowed. He was listening for something, a whisper or a call. His eyes went over his shoulder to her, either checking on her or what he could see behind them. Was it a warning or concern? "Don't fall behind."
A quickening of her steps at his admonishments. She usually loved the night, but for some reason it all felt so oppressive tonight. She jumped at every sound. The clank of wheels on the cobblestone damn near drove her insane. And then a whisper of sound, a soft growl from a side street. A darker shadow in the shadows. The larger form leaning against the street light. Head down, eyes glinting beneath lashes thick and dark. She froze behind him, again stepping forward but not touching him. "Goin somewhere?" the voice husky, putting to mind backwoods, smoky bars. Eyes tracked upward till they met his, a faint smirk on full lips drawn into a smirk, or was it a snarl?
The sound directed his gaze to the figure, which he met with a slow, long exhale. One hand went backward, his cold fingertips brushing against Nexie's thigh, confirming where she stood in relation to him. There was no fear or tremble, but the assessment that they would make of one another began. Both were probably mentally determining what the outcome might be if they clashed. "It seems so. You must be taking the same tour of Italy that we are." He wasn't usually sarcastic.
By nature of the beast Storm was aggressive, both in stance and demeanor. Power seemed to radiate from her. Behind her there was movement in subtle shifting shadows. Some or all of her pack close by. Protecting their alpha. A hand came up and all movement stopped. The tension emanating from the shadows was palpable. Never once did she release her gaze from him though. Calmly in control of herself and her pack. "I wont keep you, however I ask to flank you. You have something we want Thalas. Something that could prove both a benefit and a detriment to our survival.. Though I'm sure that matters little to you. We are not the only ones looking for you, just the ones who've found you first. Its in our best interest that you stay alive.. and perhaps we can prove mutually beneficial"
"Perhaps." Though he didn't know if he believed in mutually beneficial relationships. His eyes studied her, looking for indicators of deception or acid. Which he had all the pieces of the puzzle, she was right to assume it would take someone like him to put them together. He had done an excellent job of destroying whatever else remained, whatever other witnesses there had been, for how it was handled, "I will hear what all sides offer, and may the best offer win. Do you know what you plan to offer?" By his tone, he didn't think she did. Just that she wanted to put a hook into him.
Eyes narrowed at him, it sounded like he was out for monetary gain "Somehow I don't think you care to much for riches. Though I'm sure most will think its all you want. I offer more than that, protection, alliance and more.. service.. " again the shadows shifted at the last word spoken, a soft growling grumble could be heard. Eyes snapped coldly towards the sound then returned to him when stillness once more prevailed. "Who among your kind can boast of a werewolf army at his or her use?" She stepped away, towards the pack as if to give him leave to resume his course.. "Send your pet when your ready to talk. Till then we'll be around, watching, protecting... "
"Duly noted," but it didn't sound happy, or relieved. Or that he was liking the terms of the deal much. Whoever she was, she knew as little of him as he did her. Thalas hadn't been known for being particularly social with other vampires. He had, more or less, been off the grid for centuries. Known of, but not a player int he politics and arguing. When the Alpha seemed content to let him continue on his passage he did, making it a point to not look over his shoulder as he walked. His steps were crisp.
Nexie followed closely. Casting looks behind her to relieve her mind that they where not being followed. She didn't ask him what was going on. Just kept up as best she could.
The Chateau De Milan. One of the many hotels in Italy, influenced by their nearby French neighbor. The boring paperwork, the signing and shuffling of ill pleasantries between him and the staff was enough to weaken the intense moment experienced before. The fifth floor, room 512. Once they were inside the room and the door was shut he exhaled heavily, taking off his coat, "Do you need food?"
She shook her head, feeling overwhelmed, worried. "No thank you." Gathering their things she moved to the closets to unpack. She looked at him in question, did he want her to deal with his things... ? "I'm sorry.. " was all she could think to say, her mistake had caused the move, the discomfort, likely caused him to be found. She was still grasping the seriousness of their situation.
"For what?" His jacket was on the coat rack and he started to unbutton his silver, long sleeved shirt. He looked haphazard, indifferent. The way he used to sort of slouch and invite danger up to his front door when he was itching for the validation that life was still life, and feelings were still feelings. When he looked at her the blades of his dark hair fell and hit the crest of his cheek.
"For going out.. " what more could she say, as she unpacked and settled their things into closet and drawers. Though she didn't touch the doctors bag. It had been an eventful day, so she turned to look over the room... unable to meet his gaze, feeling the guilt of her mistake.
"Draw a bath," she looked as if she were in the need to do something. This hotel room was better than the other, it had more personality. The furniture was made of high backed chairs with arm rests and gilded wood. Very French. The bathroom was larger, a tub separate from the shower and looking out over the city. He began unpacking his things, slowly, the care a momentary pauses of his motions not unlike that of someone making a bomb.
She moved efficiently into the bathroom and began to fill the tub, setting out soaps and cloths. Busy work more than anything had her lighting candles and setting up a tray with brandy for him.
While she did that chore, he grasped one of the dressers with a muffle grunt, planting it against the door. It wouldn't stop a determined werewolf or vampire, but the unexpected bulk would complicate an immediate break in. There were too many years that had passed to make him have any sheepish, or odd, feelings about being naked. Beyond that, he'd been a Roman, his own background familiar with bath houses. So it was that he stripped down with little ceremony and then climbed into the bath, motioning with his hand that she climb in as well, "I have something important, Nexie. I have knowledge that others will want, will kill for. They will promise me anything to get it."
She'd been with him long enough to loose that shyness as well, so it was with swift movements that she stripped and joined him. Taking up a cloth and sudsing it she began to bath him. Listening to him as he spoke, holding the questions, seeming to concentrate on the task at hand. Pausing long enough to reach over for the glass and handing it to him before she resumed the lazy sweeps of the damp cloth.
"I don't know what to do with you, exactly." He admitted as he watched her, his hand drifting to the glass and giving it a conservative sip. At this point, she was aware enough of the situation that she knew it to be dangerous and knew it to be related to him. People referred to her as his pet-- he did not correct them. The term was off, though, incorrect as a means to describe her.
"Are you wanting to stay through this storm?" Starless had been her home and workplace. Did it bother her to be away from it?
She froze at his words, the cloth lowered into the water as her mind raced over his words. "I stay ... " it was all she could do. Her place was with him. Until such time as he decided otherwise. "Tell me what you need of me.. " the cloth rinsed was raised to begin rinsing the soap from him as she spoke. Her eyes lowered to hide the fear and worry.
In their history together, he had never so much as pretended that she had a choice. She could have verbalized it, easily, and at times when driven to extremes she did. Whatever was going on must have been severe if he was the one speaking of options and of her right to pick one. There was another swallow of his drink before he motioned her to come closer to him.
Setting the cloth aside she moved closer to him, sighing softly, finally beginning to relax. She'd always felt safe with him. Eyes raised to meet his gaze. A tentative smile on her lips.
He took her by the chin, gaze moving along the features of her face thoughtfully. She was getting older, he remembered what she looked like when they were first together. It was once said to him that the life a mortal lived was worn upon their face. If the lines at their lips were pronounced from laughing or smiling, that indicated a merry life. If the lines of worry wore deep beneath their eyes, there was sorrow. He leaned forward and kissed her, his lips not as cool as they usually were because of the bath. It was a calm kiss, as if it were a substitution for words.
A soft sigh escaped, the kiss calming her nerves. A faint shiver of excitement crawled under her skin. She scooted closer yet, tentative touches along his chest as she melted into the embrace.
The left hand's palm was at her neck, just past the jaw, with his fingertips curved partly to cradle her skull. Lips drew down her cheek and to her throat where he craned his neck to reach her. The motion was a known one for her, expected. A great pressure before a prickling, followed by the brief sensation of piercing skin.
A brief tension at the flash of pain then a soft moan as she settled against him, hands stroked through his hair as he fed.. she felt the flush of heat and need pick her heartbeat up.
Since being on the road, they shared a room. Everything that they had, everything he was willing to bring with him, placed into a large travel suitcase. There was a leather doctor's bag that clicked with the sound of glass when it was moved. At noon, he was asleep, which meant he might as well have been dead. His breath was so shallow, his stillness making him more like a statue than a slumbering body. If anyone knew, it was her. She'd better be back before he woke up.
He never had to know.. after all, no one was looking for her where they? She had it all worked out as the door clicked open, the wash of sun warming her skin as she slipped out and shut the door behind her, as quiet as a mouse. Reminiscent of the days of old when getting in and out unheard and unseen meant everything. She pauses on the doorstep, taking in the bustle of sight and sound. The throng of humanity. Unable to detect any sort of threat, she began to walk towards the market square. Her step picking up a spring as she went, her shoulders straightening as she absorbed the sense of freedom...
Ever since the beginning of, well, whatever it was he had gotten himself into, Thalas had been strict with her about where she went and who she talked to. Thomas was, apparently, additionally hired help to Starless, which should have given her more free time except that he had insisted she stay there, closer than she ever had. It did not come with the sense that he was madly in want of her, but that he was watching over her carefully. It was the first time in weeks that she was completely without him, or what he was doing. No throng of vampires, plotting and smoking at the bar. There were people, laughing, buying bread, carrying on with their lives as she had once done.
An hour passes then another as she wanders the market.. growing more comfortable as she goes.. Spying a vibrant silk of green she forgets for the moment who she is, where she is and the sense of urgency and secrecy that Thalas has been displaying.. the old scarf is yanked off as she tries on the green silk, enjoying the feel of it against her face.. Smiling to the vendor as she pays him and turns.. it was then, that it hit her.. that feeling of being watched... that sense of dread that she had just made a monumental mistake. Eyes, as green as that scarf that now marked her like a target on her back, skitter about as she tries to find the source for that feeling. Moving cautiously through the throng in hopes of loosing herself in it and making her way back "home"... her heart begins to patter rapidly, her breathing shallow as her steps quicken.. a glance behind her to see people being bumped aside out of the way of the goons moving closer.. dropping all pretense she breaks into a run.
Passing cobblestone alleys, so narrow that you could barely walk two abreast, her eyes darting about for an escape.. almost feeling their breaths on her neck, she's started into a gasp as a hand yanked her into one such alley, and back into a darkened doorway.. a hand slapped over her mouth painfully, she felt the bite of copper in her mouth where teeth and lips met.
"Stupid bitch.. " a voice growls into her ear as she's pressed back further. Sorta surprised that the body covering hers is female.. she stiffens and begins to struggle only to realize that the woman holding her was much taller and pure muscle. Another growl "Still", then silence as they both heard the beat of feet going past them.
What felts like hours.. but where only moments pass before the woman steps back and Nex gets her first look at her.. She was amazingly tall, at least six feet. Hair dark as night, almost blue so black was it. Skin that was definitely Native American, and eyes of such a pale blue they looked silver. So cold was the gaze and so harsh that Nex had to wonder if she'd been saved or condemned.
"Does your Master know your out and about, blowing his cover like this?" Again the woman growled as she walked (or rather stalked) to the alley's opening to look out. Nexie was left looking for a weapon.. like anything short of a hammer was going to do much good here.. a very very big hammer.
Just as she was taking a step to run, the woman turned back to her, a slender brow arching as arms crossed over her chest. A shake of her head, a sigh and she was returning, "I'll just catch you." Of course she would with those impossibly long legs of hers. "I'm Storm... of the Lakota pack... " the eyes narrowed as she grasped Nexie's arm and began dragging her through the opposite end of the alley and out.. "Get your skinny white ass back to him and ya tell him, I want to talk... "
Nexie stopped and turned.. now that she was back out in public a bit of the bravado was returning.. "And why should I?"
"Aside from the fact that i just saved your ass, you mean?" The woman's voice dropped and she stepped forward... and ok... Nexie was neither that brave or that stupid. She took a step back, "He's got something I want, as alpha... and maybe... we can help each other. Now ya better git before they double back. " Turning away she seems to just melt into the throng, which for a woman of her size seemed impossible. Nexie wasn't going to stand there contemplating it though... the scarf was removed, the old placed back iin its place and brisk steps had her quickly making her way home.
The sound of the clock ticking on the wall was impossibly loud to him. Like a mechanical heart beat that was counting off the time in the room. There was no soft, organize sounds coming from Nexie to buffer the noise. Ultimately, that was what woke him. The shadows were low on the horizon, what little light coming through the window was a deep orange promise of the evening. When his eyes opened they sharpened on his surroundings and he sat up. He knew already that she was out of the room, just by the fact that he couldn't hear her. That didn't mean that he wasn't going to look. When he rose out of bed he moved to the bathroom and checked the closets.
He dressed quickly, showing an indifference to his appearance that had suited him in his younger years, when it was more of a petulant, disrespectful show than one of being legitimately hurried. Pants, belt, shoes. The grey, silver button up shirt half way buttoned up as he pulled on a leather jacket. At this point, he was just stepping out of their room. His nostrils flared, looking to find a hint of her to direct him.
She slipped in as quietly as she'd left. Not sure how to tell Thalas about her little adventure, actually contemplating not mentioning it at all. He was going to be so angry with her... She was dreading this, but knew she didn't have much of a choice. Taking a deep breath, a vain attempt to calm nerves already harried. Maybe he'd just throw her out.
It was in the doorway that he met her. His white hand wrapped around the edge of it, grey eyes fixed for blood and offense. It had surprised him that she was there, a surprise that appeared in his gaze as a momentary widening of his gaze that disappeared quickly. His body withdrew, his hand on her wrist, pulling her in and bringing the door shut behind her. He locked it, using both locks on the door and turning on her. It always seemed like he was taller when he was displeased, "Were you not to stay here?"
Damn, caught.. she gulped and gaped, struggling to respond. Fear had her heart stuttering once more, she really hated making him angry, it flogged her soul when she did so. "I uh... I had to get out, I'm sorry, I was going insane... " no excuse but then anger took hold, "Why? Why must I stay in, why are we hiding?" she still hesitates to tell him of the events at the market.
Cold, bone white fingers were still wrapped around her wrist, the pressure of it a reminder that he had a hold on her. When she said she had to get out his grip tightened, "Then that's something we talk about or do together. You must be with me, always." Before the sensation of his grasp became too much it relaxed, suddenly releasing her. When she asked if they were in hiding he snorted, shrugging off his jacket and throwing it on top of the foot of the bed, "We are trying to keep a low profile." Was that a yes?
She frowned at his words, rubbing her wrist, though there was no pain. She had felt the anger in that grip. Moving past him to pour herself a drink, she downed with one shot.. Taking a deep breath she kept her back to him.. "I was followed... I think. Two men.. I managed to escape them, with a bit of help," the words mumbled quickly... inwardly wincing at what was to come.
"Foolish," the word sounding like a clip of his teeth. His sidelong, salty gaze on her, fixed on her form and how she moved through a story that sounded full of secrets and lost details that he would have needed to know. "Help?" He arched a brow at her when she said it, "There's no such thing as help." Spoken from someone who had survived vampire politics for too long. The good Samaritan was a myth, there was only the self serving. Was she out of money? There was no smell of blood or sex on her, so if that had been what was bartered it was not yet what she had paid. Sinking into the hotel chair he looked at her expectantly.
She mulled over the words about how she must stay with him, and for a brief moment allowed herself to think that he actually cared for her.. maybe even loved her. Just as quickly she dashed those thoughts.. he'd never care for her as she did for him. That was to be her lot in life.. "Said her name was Storm, some pack.. I cant recall.. I think she was an alpha?" She turned then to gauge his reaction.. "She wants to meet with you.. something about you having something she wants.. and perhaps she can aid you in return.. " she moved towards him then, all grace and little guile.. deep green eyes locked upon his smokey grey.. searching for anything, some sign of forgiveness.. of understanding.
"Alpha?" Another snort and he looked away from her, his thoughts angling back and forth. An elbow perched on the arm rest of the chair, the hand brought to his mouth as he contemplated. Something she wants. His attention went back to Nexie, "I have something a lot of people want." It hadn't meant to be suggestive. When she stepped to him his eyes narrowed, fractionally, then his hand moved from his mouth, two fingers flicking to signal that she come closer to him, "When something is so desirable, it is nothing to kill those that have it so that it might belong to another."
A soft sigh of breath escape at his summons, she steps closer yet, within his reach. So very close now. And while she may be standing over him, she was in no way the dominant here and she knew it. "Why did you bring me?" she had to ask that. Had to know.
"I prefer you alive," he stood up and leaned in. It seemed, at first, that he might kiss her. Warmth was never the indicator that he was near. There was the smell of him and now, the exhale of his breath along her neck after her had scented her. Nexie had the smell of other people on her-- and was that hint of something else the new scarf, or the Alpha? He reached to her neck and drew the original scarf off, laying it on the chair behind him before he tried, again. A vampire did not have the nose of a werewolf, but both were hunters. Whatever bit of information he could take from her was necessary.
She froze as he neared, shivering softly, her body flushing. The scent of him, the feel of his breath along her neck. She had to bite back a moan as the scarf was slipped off and he returned, unable to anticipate his next move or even why he was nuzzling her, she remained still and quiet.
"Word travels fast," he observed, leaning back to take her by the chin. His eyes were unblinking and steady to convey the severity of what he meant though she never thought of him as joking and light hearted about any such matters, "If you do that again, I'll kill you myself. The less you know, the better." His hand released her face and he sat back down in the chair, looking up at her and then towards the door, "Did she arrange a time and place, this... Alpha?"
A swallow of fear at his threat, very real and very much felt. She knew he'd have no problem taking her out and yeah her heart smashed a bit by his words. "No, she didnt... " she moved away from him, sensing his displeasure. "I would imagine she'll find us, or is expecting you to find her." Fists clenched, honestly how much more of this self abuse could she take.. it wasn't like she hadn't known what he'd be like. She had tried hard never to fool herself into thinking he'd ever come to care about her.
His eyes went to her. Lips hardly moved, yet a frown was expressed, "Find us?" Eyebrows lifted and he turned to look at the window. "We should pack out things and find another hotel." Whatever he was up to, it wasn't like when he was at Starless and people had a location to find him. He wanted to be displaced and unknown. He rose, stepping around her to get to the bathroom and collect what personal affects they had in there. He tossed them on the bed, "Are you ready? Get your things."
She blinked, then again before moving to obey. Her things where minimal and easily gathered. The urgency was a bit daunting though. But she would not question him. He'd always looked out for her, much like you would a stray cat that just wouldn't stop coming around. She would take what she got, because that was her nature.. she'd never learned to expect more from anyone.
He was minimal, usually. There wasn't a sense about him that clothes or items were important. That was partly why it was strange that his bag that he took was a larger one. There were either additional items in it, or he was bringing enough things with them that there wasn't much intention of returning to Starless soon. Once their bags were in order he turned to look at her, arching one brow as if to ask if she were ready. Once given any indication, he opened the door and stepped through, waiting for her. Hotels could be confusing places, so many creatures were always coming and going. With someone trying to get his attention at least he knew to be wary of even the small indicators, "There is a place not far from here I think will have a vacancy."
"Yes Sir, " she all but whispered as she moved to follow. No argument.. not resistance. He didn't need her but she would stay. Out into the darkness, the sense of being surrounded was almost overwhelming, was it her imagination in hyperdrive? Stepping closer to him, her hand slipped around his free arm.
There were always, and only, brief moments between them. Sometimes one missed it from the other. The touch on his arm made his head turn to look at her as if not expecting her to reach for him. The motion felt strangely intimate, the way he saw lovers grasp to one another while they laughed on a date. But it wasn't a date and neither were laughing and his look betrayed a second-lived concern for her that dipped and disappeared behind the tide of his gaze. He walked them, quickly, to the elevator and then to the front desk where they checked out. That was the easy part, it was stepping outside that made his shoulders draw back as if posturing for some unseen watcher.
She followed, keeping pace with him so as not to hinder him. Vigilant as they stepped out into the darkness. Releasing his arm as he straightened and taking a step back. She'd only get in the way if he needed to defend. Eyes skittered about as they moved. That sense of foreboding only worsening. It wouldn't be long before he would likely pick up on anyone following them.
Two bags. A larger one and then the leather one, sitting on top of it. The suitcases counted off the cobblestones. He looked distracted, his head slightly bowed. He was listening for something, a whisper or a call. His eyes went over his shoulder to her, either checking on her or what he could see behind them. Was it a warning or concern? "Don't fall behind."
A quickening of her steps at his admonishments. She usually loved the night, but for some reason it all felt so oppressive tonight. She jumped at every sound. The clank of wheels on the cobblestone damn near drove her insane. And then a whisper of sound, a soft growl from a side street. A darker shadow in the shadows. The larger form leaning against the street light. Head down, eyes glinting beneath lashes thick and dark. She froze behind him, again stepping forward but not touching him. "Goin somewhere?" the voice husky, putting to mind backwoods, smoky bars. Eyes tracked upward till they met his, a faint smirk on full lips drawn into a smirk, or was it a snarl?
The sound directed his gaze to the figure, which he met with a slow, long exhale. One hand went backward, his cold fingertips brushing against Nexie's thigh, confirming where she stood in relation to him. There was no fear or tremble, but the assessment that they would make of one another began. Both were probably mentally determining what the outcome might be if they clashed. "It seems so. You must be taking the same tour of Italy that we are." He wasn't usually sarcastic.
By nature of the beast Storm was aggressive, both in stance and demeanor. Power seemed to radiate from her. Behind her there was movement in subtle shifting shadows. Some or all of her pack close by. Protecting their alpha. A hand came up and all movement stopped. The tension emanating from the shadows was palpable. Never once did she release her gaze from him though. Calmly in control of herself and her pack. "I wont keep you, however I ask to flank you. You have something we want Thalas. Something that could prove both a benefit and a detriment to our survival.. Though I'm sure that matters little to you. We are not the only ones looking for you, just the ones who've found you first. Its in our best interest that you stay alive.. and perhaps we can prove mutually beneficial"
"Perhaps." Though he didn't know if he believed in mutually beneficial relationships. His eyes studied her, looking for indicators of deception or acid. Which he had all the pieces of the puzzle, she was right to assume it would take someone like him to put them together. He had done an excellent job of destroying whatever else remained, whatever other witnesses there had been, for how it was handled, "I will hear what all sides offer, and may the best offer win. Do you know what you plan to offer?" By his tone, he didn't think she did. Just that she wanted to put a hook into him.
Eyes narrowed at him, it sounded like he was out for monetary gain "Somehow I don't think you care to much for riches. Though I'm sure most will think its all you want. I offer more than that, protection, alliance and more.. service.. " again the shadows shifted at the last word spoken, a soft growling grumble could be heard. Eyes snapped coldly towards the sound then returned to him when stillness once more prevailed. "Who among your kind can boast of a werewolf army at his or her use?" She stepped away, towards the pack as if to give him leave to resume his course.. "Send your pet when your ready to talk. Till then we'll be around, watching, protecting... "
"Duly noted," but it didn't sound happy, or relieved. Or that he was liking the terms of the deal much. Whoever she was, she knew as little of him as he did her. Thalas hadn't been known for being particularly social with other vampires. He had, more or less, been off the grid for centuries. Known of, but not a player int he politics and arguing. When the Alpha seemed content to let him continue on his passage he did, making it a point to not look over his shoulder as he walked. His steps were crisp.
Nexie followed closely. Casting looks behind her to relieve her mind that they where not being followed. She didn't ask him what was going on. Just kept up as best she could.
The Chateau De Milan. One of the many hotels in Italy, influenced by their nearby French neighbor. The boring paperwork, the signing and shuffling of ill pleasantries between him and the staff was enough to weaken the intense moment experienced before. The fifth floor, room 512. Once they were inside the room and the door was shut he exhaled heavily, taking off his coat, "Do you need food?"
She shook her head, feeling overwhelmed, worried. "No thank you." Gathering their things she moved to the closets to unpack. She looked at him in question, did he want her to deal with his things... ? "I'm sorry.. " was all she could think to say, her mistake had caused the move, the discomfort, likely caused him to be found. She was still grasping the seriousness of their situation.
"For what?" His jacket was on the coat rack and he started to unbutton his silver, long sleeved shirt. He looked haphazard, indifferent. The way he used to sort of slouch and invite danger up to his front door when he was itching for the validation that life was still life, and feelings were still feelings. When he looked at her the blades of his dark hair fell and hit the crest of his cheek.
"For going out.. " what more could she say, as she unpacked and settled their things into closet and drawers. Though she didn't touch the doctors bag. It had been an eventful day, so she turned to look over the room... unable to meet his gaze, feeling the guilt of her mistake.
"Draw a bath," she looked as if she were in the need to do something. This hotel room was better than the other, it had more personality. The furniture was made of high backed chairs with arm rests and gilded wood. Very French. The bathroom was larger, a tub separate from the shower and looking out over the city. He began unpacking his things, slowly, the care a momentary pauses of his motions not unlike that of someone making a bomb.
She moved efficiently into the bathroom and began to fill the tub, setting out soaps and cloths. Busy work more than anything had her lighting candles and setting up a tray with brandy for him.
While she did that chore, he grasped one of the dressers with a muffle grunt, planting it against the door. It wouldn't stop a determined werewolf or vampire, but the unexpected bulk would complicate an immediate break in. There were too many years that had passed to make him have any sheepish, or odd, feelings about being naked. Beyond that, he'd been a Roman, his own background familiar with bath houses. So it was that he stripped down with little ceremony and then climbed into the bath, motioning with his hand that she climb in as well, "I have something important, Nexie. I have knowledge that others will want, will kill for. They will promise me anything to get it."
She'd been with him long enough to loose that shyness as well, so it was with swift movements that she stripped and joined him. Taking up a cloth and sudsing it she began to bath him. Listening to him as he spoke, holding the questions, seeming to concentrate on the task at hand. Pausing long enough to reach over for the glass and handing it to him before she resumed the lazy sweeps of the damp cloth.
"I don't know what to do with you, exactly." He admitted as he watched her, his hand drifting to the glass and giving it a conservative sip. At this point, she was aware enough of the situation that she knew it to be dangerous and knew it to be related to him. People referred to her as his pet-- he did not correct them. The term was off, though, incorrect as a means to describe her.
"Are you wanting to stay through this storm?" Starless had been her home and workplace. Did it bother her to be away from it?
She froze at his words, the cloth lowered into the water as her mind raced over his words. "I stay ... " it was all she could do. Her place was with him. Until such time as he decided otherwise. "Tell me what you need of me.. " the cloth rinsed was raised to begin rinsing the soap from him as she spoke. Her eyes lowered to hide the fear and worry.
In their history together, he had never so much as pretended that she had a choice. She could have verbalized it, easily, and at times when driven to extremes she did. Whatever was going on must have been severe if he was the one speaking of options and of her right to pick one. There was another swallow of his drink before he motioned her to come closer to him.
Setting the cloth aside she moved closer to him, sighing softly, finally beginning to relax. She'd always felt safe with him. Eyes raised to meet his gaze. A tentative smile on her lips.
He took her by the chin, gaze moving along the features of her face thoughtfully. She was getting older, he remembered what she looked like when they were first together. It was once said to him that the life a mortal lived was worn upon their face. If the lines at their lips were pronounced from laughing or smiling, that indicated a merry life. If the lines of worry wore deep beneath their eyes, there was sorrow. He leaned forward and kissed her, his lips not as cool as they usually were because of the bath. It was a calm kiss, as if it were a substitution for words.
A soft sigh escaped, the kiss calming her nerves. A faint shiver of excitement crawled under her skin. She scooted closer yet, tentative touches along his chest as she melted into the embrace.
The left hand's palm was at her neck, just past the jaw, with his fingertips curved partly to cradle her skull. Lips drew down her cheek and to her throat where he craned his neck to reach her. The motion was a known one for her, expected. A great pressure before a prickling, followed by the brief sensation of piercing skin.
A brief tension at the flash of pain then a soft moan as she settled against him, hands stroked through his hair as he fed.. she felt the flush of heat and need pick her heartbeat up.