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Post by Raven on Jun 25, 2018 14:37:09 GMT -5
Cassandra stood from her seat, her hand to her chest – as several members of the Order entered the room and saluted her. Her eyebrows squeezed together as they spoke of recent troubles. “I did not get your letter...Possible the Lycans intercepted it...” she crossed her arms. “Perhaps while we are here we can help...” she looked to Iris then and then sat down.
“I suppose that is one of the downfalls... I try to import groups into every city possible... It’s quite a bit of traveling...” she chuckled and finished her icecream. The men left – but were followed up by a Lycan. Cassandra’s nose wrinkled as she smelled him approach. They had just left the icecream shop, and didn’t make it far down the road before the Lycans approached.
Cassandra pulled her dagger, which was resting on her lower back. “Actually... I killed Ravus – “ she thrust forward and easily stabbed the Lycan. It was a blood red dagger – infused with her blood. She practiced for an entire year before she was able to craft a dagger like the sword Iris had made for her...
The other two Lycans had transformed and leaped onto Cassandra. She teleported easily and parried an attack. She turned her head – her eyes watching as Iris was pushed away. Cassandra grit her teeth and quickly teleported – her blade sliced into both Lycans. She shifted back and turned – two more appeared. She held her hand up and squeezed – One of the Lycan’s froze and cried out. Suddenly his blood boiled, and then leaked from his nose and ears – he fell over just after, dead.
Cassandra then teleported several times and snapped the neck of the other Lycan, her motions swift. She turned then and a red fox came barreling toward her. She stumbled back and then chuckled – she could hear Iris’s tiny heart beat even louder now- this fox had to be her. She smiled and set her down... “Give me just a second...” she teleported swiftly – when she returned the dead bodies were gone...
A group of people had gathered... Cassandra turned to them and held her hand up. “You saw nothing... move along with your day” a flash came from her palm then. Sebastian had spent a lot of time teaching her how to mind warp someone – and she took it a step further to do it on a mass scale... The group of people then stepped away, resuming their normal day to day business.
“That alpha that was going after you... he escaped huh?” She crossed her arms. It was then that some random man stepped forward and patted the fox. Cassandra glanced to him and scoffed “Leash her? Shit, I should let her bite your damn hand off. Ask next time” she turned then and watched as Iris transformed...
“I’m sorry... I guess it does hurt... You never really showed the pain, or any pain really” she chuckled and then sighed. “We’ll have to hunt that Alpha down. We don’t need anyone knowing that you’re alive... and perhaps a new look for you would be good? Come on then... we can do some shopping, get a new hair style maybe? Who knows...” she smiled “It could be fun...” she placed a hand on her back. “I hope you are okay... did he hurt you?” she questioned.
They came upon a clothing store and she held the door open to her. “Perhaps we should stay for a few days, make some new memories – maybe hunting down that scrub Lycan might help you get back into the swing of things? He is truly a fool to announce himself that way with no plan... but they’re getting desperate these days...” she walked over to a rack of corsets and began to thumb through them...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 25, 2018 18:57:56 GMT -5
Iris followed Cassandra. “What I am is something that the Lycans are interested in…isn’t it?” She questioned softly. She drew her brows together slightly. “To think, I’m dead for three years and I’m back for less than a day and someone has already taken up a hunt of me…” She sighed and shook her head. “I think you’re right, a change is in order.” The bell jingled as they entered the shop.
Iris stood next to Cassandra looking to the corsets. A small old woman approached them. “Welcome.” She smiled. “How may I help you?”
Iris looked to the woman and offered a smile, “I need a change of wardrobe.” She spoke, “Something completely different.”
The woman smiled and chuckled. “Alright, love.” She looked over her shoulder. “Hattie!” She called to the back.
Rummaging was heard. A pot or a pan fell over. Then a young woman pushed through the curtain that led to the back. “Yes gram?” She asked, she had curly short messy hair.
“This girl wants to look completely different, it looked like something you should handle.” The old woman walked away.
The girl, Hattie, stepped forward she looked Iris up and down. “Alright. Come with me.” She grinned. She looked to Cassandra. “Don’t’ worry, you won’t recognize her when I bring her back.” She winked as she pulled her to the back. Iris pulled back slightly her eyes looking to Cassandra, though she loosened as she was pulled to the back. Hattie pushed her down in a chair a bit roughly and walked around behind her. “First things first.” She spoke. A loud snipping sound came next to Iris’ ear and then suddenly her hair was on the floor.
“What! What are you doing?!” Iris gasped as she looked to her long locks on the ground.
Hattie chuckled, “You wanted a completely different style, right?” She grinned, “Don’t worry, just relax.” She snipped several more times before she mixed color up into a bowl. She massaged it into Iris’ scalp. Iris stared into a mirror that had several pictures pinned to it with Hattie and others in the images. She looked to her short locks her eyes slightly wide. Hattie moved about grabbing several garments of clothing. “Perfect….” She spoke to herself. “Come on.” She pulled Iris along. Hattie leaned her back in a chair. “Open wide.” She spoke she had a dropper in her hand. Iris drew her brows together. “Don’t worry it won’t hurt.” She smiled. “It’s temporary, but I can sell you a dropper if you like it.” She gently held Iris’ chin and dropped a few drops of liquid into Iris’ eyes before she began washing the dye from her hair.
It was over an hour before Hattie emerged back up front. She had a grin on her lips. “Are you ready?” She asked and looked to Cassandra. The old woman chuckled from the counter. “Come on.” She looked back into the back.
Iris stepped from the back, she had short hair that fell over her right eye it was dyed an auburn color with bits of blonde highlights in it. Hattie had placed a set of goggles on her head that accented her well. Hattie had even done her make-up. She wore a short sleeved white blouse with black buttons that ran up her shoulders. A corset made of leather rest on top, the burnt color meshed with her new hair color perfectly. A strap hung across her chest to a small bag that hung at her hip. She wore black leather gloves and tight black pants and knee high black leather boots. Her dagger and pistol were attached to her thighs as usual. She looked to Cassandra with now hazel eyes from the strange dye that Hattie had used. Hattie grinned, “Well?” She looked to Cassandra, “What do you think?” She chuckled. “Do you recognize her?”
Iris stepped over to Cassandra, she smirked slightly. “At least if I don’t feel myself, if I look different I feel a little more like me, hm?”
Hattie stepped forward, “And….what about you miss?” She asked looking over Cassandra. “Hm I’m not sure, that ashen hair looks excellent on you.” She chuckled happily.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 25, 2018 23:14:58 GMT -5
Cassandra sifted through clothes – but ultimately never selected anything. She sat down in the waiting area and sifting through a booklet. It was an informational packet on the city, the culture and history… she hummed softly as she turned the page.
It wasn’t too long before Iris’s transformation was complete. She set down the book and stood – looking to her as she entered. Cassandra smiled and sifted through her pocket – pulling out several coins. “Thank you..” she handed it to the elderly woman, and then 2 coins to Hattie – a tip. Hattie took the coins and then grinned wildly.
“Thank you so much, my lady” she bowed her head and then slipped them away. Hattie turned then and fixed a piece of Iris’s hair. “She looks lovely, I think!”
“She does… beautiful” Cassandra crossed her arms and then nodded. “I like my hair color, thank you. No sense in bothering for a change when a tattoo cannot be erased, hm?” she chuckled and lead Iris out the door. “It is different than the Iris I know… but I think change is good. You look quite… stunning.” She grinned then, and even blushed mildly. “Even when you get your memories back… you wont be 100% the same Iris… but that is okay, I think. For someone to live for eternity, maybe a reset button is good hm? I’m not going any where… so… take all the time you need. I’ll be here…” she grasped her hand and lead her down the street.
They passed several shops – clothes and goods were displayed in windows. She gazed as they walked by. “The tattoos I have… The Order was first established over 700 years ago. Instead of uniforms and stripes – each ranking person had a tattoo that sort of.. gave them away. This tattoo on my face is the mark of the Leader. It’s the closest to sort of… war tattoos. The idea was that… Even though I am a leader – I still fight along side my people. I don’t command them what to do, rather – they follow me head into battle… That was the kind of leader I wanted to be. So… I got these…” she smiled then and chuckled. “Plus I thought they were pretty cool… I mean… they are” she chuckled once more.
“Here – come, you smell that?” she pointed to a small café. “They import coffee beans from across the seas. Expensive but… just wait…” she walked up to the cashier and ordered 2 medium dark roast coffees, and two muffins. Cassandra lead her to a small seat and sat down – she pushed the cup towards her, and a blueberry muffin.
“This little place is a gift amongst the world. They specialize in the delicacies. Expensive but… I’d pay every penny. Just taste, you’ll understand” she broke off a piece of her muffin and bit into it. It was fluffy and moist, a bomb of flavor – to wash down with the perfectly balanced cup of coffee…
“Mmm…” she smiled and took another sip. “Sometimes… I’ll come here in my mornings… and then go back, just for the coffee” she chuckled. “I guess that is the benefit of my powers hm? Unlimited travel at the blink of an eye… I can have coffee here and eat dinner in Parusia, a city easily 500 miles away… known for amazing pastas..” she sipped once more.
“So, Iris….Do you remember the blade you built me? A beautiful red sword – I don’t carry it around so much anymore unless I am going into battle. Over the years… as the ‘calm’ has grown, people aren’t so fond of a weapon so obviously displayed” she sipped once more. “but it is my pride and joy, and has lead me to so many victories… Everytime I looked at it… I thought of you…” she lowered her eyes and then smiled. She drew her dagger and set it down.
“I was so inspired – I spent a year studying how to blacksmith, trying to replicate it. This is as close as I came…” she turned it about. “Close but still not my sword…” she sheathed her dagger… “I don’t think… there was a day that passed that I didn’t think of you…” she blushed and then shook her head. “Which is funny, because before you – I never considered love as a possibility… I was so focused on my goals… and then you just… came along. Swept me away…” she reached forward then and took her hands.
“I apologize. I guess… since you’ve come back.. all these feelings inside of me just scream to be released.” She sipped her coffee once more, her hands falling from Iris’s. “But – never the less… We are here, hm? Our next step after this coffee… see if we can trace down some of that Lycan… but… I’m going to let you take the lead. I know it might be hard at first but I’m going to guide you, and try and push you… your memories and instincts will come back, I’m sure of it…” she took another bite of her muffin and grinned – the flavor was great.
“Though, he’ll surely be back. I know this… he is desperate. Catching him won’t be hard… if we hang out enough – he’ll be bound to attack…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 26, 2018 11:50:48 GMT -5
Iris smiled to Cassandra, “Well…” She spoke, “I suppose I’m different?” She questioned slightly as they stepped outside. When Cassandra said she was stunning her cheeks flushed pink and she looked away slightly, her pulse increased, butterflies swarmed in her belly. She looked to her after a moment and gave a soft smile. “At least I can count on one thing to stay constant in my life.” She spoke, “I may not have all of my memories back, but I am certain that I loved you, and the more I get to know you and the more I remember…” She grinned a bit, “The more I understand why I felt that way.”
Iris blushed again and looked away, looking through the windows at the merchandise that was on display in the shops that they passed. She was quiet, her eyes moved to Cassandra as she began to speak of her tattoos. A smile curved up her lips as she listened, “I think they suit you well.” She spoke as they stopped outside of the coffee shop. “A nice accent to your beautiful features.” Her cheeks flushed again. She looked up to the sign of the shop. Iris chuckled as she watched Cassandra, she was so excited about the coffee. She stayed quiet as she followed her to the table. She sat down and looked to the muffin a moment before she took a sip of her coffee. She smiled and nodded in approval. She chuckled then, “You’re rather spoiled with such abilities.” She smirked to her, a brow raised. A smile that Iris had done a lot toward Cassandra in the past when she was playfully flirting with her. “Careful, I might send you here every morning.” She took another sip and sighed happily. “This is excellent.”
Iris watched her as she began to speak of the sword. She took in a breath. She tried to remember. Though she remained silent as she listened to Cassandra speak of the blade, it sounded magnificent. A soft, almost sad smile came over her lips as Cassandra stated that each time she looked to the blade she’d think of her. When she pulled the dagger Iris stared to the red blade. Then moments later Cassandra took Iris’ hands into hers.
Iris stood in the blacksmith at the cabin. She was working quietly. Pouring things here and there. She moved and beat against the molten metal, shaping it. Iris drew up Cassandra’s blood, her eyes met hers a moment before she mixed it into the pot and continued her work all the way up until the moment that she’d given it to Cassandra.
Iris felt Cassandra’s hands slip away, she watched her a moment. Her smile small. “I remember making that blade for you, Cass.” She spoke. She leaned forward. “I remember that nothing else mattered to me, but to make the best blade I’d ever made, to create something that would make you smile, to make you awestruck….I remember the look in your eyes when I gave you that blade.” She smiled wider now. She sipped her coffee. “It had been a very long time since I’d even forged a blade, but that was my best work.”
Iris then leaned back in her chair a moment. “Hunting down a Lycan…” She muttered softly. She finished off her delightful blueberry muffin. “I’m not sure where to begin.” She looked to Cassandra. “Did I hunt Lycans before?” She questioned, “Is that something my family is good at?” She finished her coffee then before she sighed softly. “I know you said I’m a fighter…” She shook her head. “But I can’t remember, I was so terrified when that lycan came after us…I didn’t know what to do…I tried to attack him, everything inside me told me to lunge at him to bite for his throat, and I did…” Iris watched Cassandra a moment. “Only to be knocked away, I’m not sure I’ll be of much help in this fight, I can’t even fend of one lycan, what if he brings even more?....” Iris paused then, “What…what if they take me…?” Her eyes fluttered slightly, she grit her teeth, her breathing increased.
Iris was frozen still inside of the chamber. She couldn’t move. She fought to move even an inch. Arden stood on the other side of the glass a wicked grin on his lips. Nigel stood at the controls, his eyes sad as he pressed a few buttons. Pain racked her body.
Iris stood quickly, her chair fell over, she took in deep breaths. She stumbled back before she was caught by a man passing by. He steadied her. “Are you alright?” He asked as he held her shoulders. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” He searched her eyes.
Iris’ chest heaved. “I’m….I’m okay…” She looked around her surroundings and found Cassandra. “Th-thank you.” She slipped from him and lifted her chair. She sat back down, her eyes glancing to Cassandra, her hands trembled slightly. “I…I will be glad when these memories stop bombarding me…” She whispered. “What was I doing inside a chamber of water? It was so painful…” She muttered. “That’s all I can remember is the pain…and this man he stood before me…his grin…his teethy grin was so full of malice.” She shook her head and let out a shuddering breath. “I’m sorry.” Iris looked to Cassandra.
She slowly stood. “We should be hunting a lycan…shouldn’t we?” She questioned. She looked to the shops along the strip. “I imagine if he’s close I’ll smell him again. Would it be best to let him come to me? To let him think that I am unsuspecting?” She questioned softly as she began to walk down the road with Cassandra at her side. A few flashes of her in combat zoomed through her vision, she held her dagger, as usual. It sliced into the throats and backs of Lycans, burning them with the silver blade. Iris thought a moment she stopped in the middle of the street and looked to Cassandra. “Silver stuns us?” She questioned, she’d seen a memory from when Arden froze her in the middle of the street. “But it kills lycans…” She muttered. “And where does that place me along the spectrum? Does silver harm me?” She questioned and continued to walk again until they came to the center of town where they stood on a deck that overlooked a rounded area with a fountain at the center.
Iris then took in a breath. She turned then and took Cassandra’s hand into hers. “You shouldn’t apologize.” She spoke and locked with her eyes. “I feel the same.” She gave a gentle smile. “Just let me catch up a bit more…I can promise you I feel exactly as you do…” She bit her lip slightly and then smiled wide before she leaned forward and placed a sweet kiss on Cassandra’s lips. Her hand moved to Cassandra’s jaw and lingered a moment before she pulled back. She blushed furiously and looked away. “To be quite honest, it is the fluttering within my stomach that I’m not sure what to do with.” She giggled slightly. “So, if we are to wait…what is there to do in Ascabar that you would recommend?” She looked to Cassandra again, her smile sweet as she awaited the answer.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 26, 2018 20:14:15 GMT -5
Cassandra stood as Iris stumbled – she reached forward but someone had already caught her. She caught eyes with the stranger, who smiled and nodded. As Iris got back to her seat – he placed his hand against his chest – saluting the way The Order might.. though she could tell he was not of the Order… Over the past 3 years the Order had gained a stronger reputation than the Armies that protected it’s people. The Order fought wars against the true enemy, not each other… Often times people would carve a path for her, and nearly kiss her toes. There was a part of her that loved it, and hated it, at the same time…
Cassandra finished her coffee and leaned back slightly, her eyes studying Iris. “Your questions – yes… Hum. Your family has been around for too terribly long, and has many engagements with the Lycans. Great fighters, but not much the kind to hunt. Your family secretly hid away for a long while, that was until Ravus decided to attack your home. I was on a mission to hunt Ravus down, and we crossed paths this way…” she stood then and linked her arm with Iris as they stepped out of the bakery.
The doorbells rang happily as they left, the owner shouted her thanks – and they were amongst the bustling streets of the water town. “But you are a great hunter… out of your family – you were always the rebellious, passionate, you did as you pleased, and you never had a hard time keeping up with me” she chuckled. “I think part of the reason you liked me so much was because I am head strong, I take action and I do what I believe is right. Where as folks like… Julian spend too much time worrying about what everyone will think” she chuckled “but he is a soldier – they respond to orders. We.. are rebels” she winked and led them down a pair of steps.
They came to a small wooden dock where a little boat sat. She pulled a few coins and handed it to the steward. “I’ll row…” she nodded, meaning that It would be just them two on the boat. She climbed to the stern and sat down – She gripped the two rows on each side and began to paddle, once Iris was seated.
“You must have had a vision of when Ravus took you… He had an experiment he wanted to test, somehow he gained intel that you were of a certain genetic line, one that housed the Lycan bloodline. Your family come from the original vampire, who was also the first Lycan. We all… stem from a hybrid, splitting into two…” she looked out to the great lake that they float upon… A gentle breeze whipped up and washed over them…
“So, Ravus kidnapped you and ran some series of tests… when we found you – you were in some kind of water chamber…” she shook her head. “I can only imagine the physiological damage that did to you…” she sighed softly. “That event is what sort of woke up the Lycan in you… but it’s not the same. We thought initially that you were a Hybrid, but you aren’t exactly….though – Silver effects you the same way a Lycan might. You freeze like a vampire, and wither away like a Lycan… but - We came to found out that you host a sort of magic in you, just like I do. You can morph into any creature – as you did, a cute fox hm?” she chuckled. “Though the wolf was easiest, because of your genetic upbringing…” they continued to row – a small wake behind them. They were coming up upon a giant cliff – where a huge waterfall crashed downward and fed the lake… From a distance a glare and rainbow appeared, stretching across the cliff and trees…
“Your mother says that we all have some kind of magic in us… but that it has to be woken some how. It is extremely rare… It takes a very perfect blend of genetics for it to work right. I find it funny how we both are holders of this…” she chuckled. “But, it helps we both are so unique. I was the first Human Vampire breed to make it past 5 years old. Apparently those who did survive, Dhampirs, are usually bound to have magic… it was when you turned me that mine sort of activated…” she looked to the waterfall.
“Drinking my blood gives you an intense healing effect, and those of ancient bloodline even gain my powers temporarily… Many times we have used that as an advantage… hell, I saved your father from death – the first day I met you all” she chuckled and then stood.
“Should we practice then? You turn into a bird maybe? We can go to the top of that cliff…” she looked to her and smiled. “With my powers – if I focus and sort of.. imagine myself to be.. then it happens. Though I have to have a clear mind, sometimes thinking of you helps…” she moved to the center of the boat and sat down on a little seat. “Just like you transformed into that fox?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 0:48:53 GMT -5
Iris listened to Cassandra as she spoke. She bowed her head slightly as she spoke of when she was taken by Arden. That memory was full of pain. “I remember I couldn’t move, at all…” She whispered softly and glanced to the water. She reached over the edge and trailed her fingertips into the water, a smile on her lips. She looked to Cassandra and let out a soft laugh, being out on the water like this was calming. She looked to the waterfall as she listened to her speak, she could feel the gentle mist upon her face. As Cassandra spoke of the past, the memories came to her, she remembered taking the glass of blood to her father. The joy it gave her to see him well again, finally. She didn’t care of her injuries in that moment, she only cared for her father to live, to recover…
“At least you and I both have magic.” She smiled to her and turned then. “I want….” She looked to Cassandra, she took her hands into hers. “I want to be here with you.” She leaned back a bit looking up at the waterfall, she chuckled. “This place is so beautiful.” She looked back to Cassandra, “I don’t care about my memories…In all honesty...” She shook her head. “It’s like you said, maybe it’s good to have a reset button hm?” She gripped Cassandra’s hands gently, her thumbs rubbed the backs of her hands a moment as she searched her eyes. “To be able to fall in love more than once in a lifetime?” She questioned and raised a brow. “And to fall for the same person?” She grinned. “That’s magic.” She released her hands and looked up to the top of the waterfall. “So you want me to change into a bird…” She spoke and took in a breath. “When I changed into the fox, all I wanted to do was to get back to you.”
Iris looked to Cassandra a soft smile on her lips. She raised her brow slightly, “So if all you do is think of me, I should think of you?” She grinned and leaned forward, her lips pressed to Cassandra’s for a long moment. Then she took in a quick breath as her pulse increased. A bright white light surrounded her, as the light faded Iris was revealed sitting before Cassandra as a gorgeous barn owl. She squeezed her eyes shut, as if to laugh or smile. She then stretched out her wings and suddenly she shot up into the sky. She flew around the waterfall, diving behind it before she flew up to the top. She landed and perched letting out a cawing sound.
Then Iris tilted her head slightly her head turned, in the way that owls turn their heads, her body stayed still as her head turned nearly 180 degrees. Slowly she turned her body. He’s close. She thought in her head, she could smell that Lycan from before. Iris took off, she flew up into the air flying quickly through the forest, she dived in and out of the trees following the scent before she perched upon a tree. A cave. She saw a man standing guard with a shotgun outside. She sat a moment analyzing them. She could hear shouting from within the cavern system.
Suddenly Iris swooped forward, it was like her instincts took over. As she swooped toward the man a flash of light surrounded her. The harsh sound of her dagger digging into his chest sounded and blood splattered on the ground as she landed before him. She kicked him back and he fell to the ground in a heap. Her breaths heavy, she looked to the man before her with wide eyes a moment before she heard more commotion from within the caves. Iris rushed in without a second thought. She pulled her pistol. In one hand she held the dagger that dripped with the Lycan’s blood, the other hand held her pistol. Something took over as she ran inside into the darkness. She came around a corner and sliced the throat of one of the men, his blood sprayed on the walls of the cavern. She didn’t hesitate.
Iris skidded around a corner, following the scent. She came to a large open room where the alpha stood over a limp body of another lycan, he’d just killed him. Others stood in the room and turned to look at Iris. The alpha male turned around, a grin split his lips. “You’ve come to deliver yourself?” He chuckled. “You’re making this too easy, love.” He clicked his tongue and pointed to her. “Get her.” He spoke, “Don’t harm the goods too much.” He turned then, retreating deeper into the caverns.
Iris snarled, her eyes turning black. She fired, a bullet landed between the eyes of one of the lycans and he fell to the ground blood pooling. “Woah….” The other held his hands up. “Hey…easy there…” He backed away. Iris glared to him, she lunged forward, her speed was faster than before. Her dagger pushed into him, in an upward motion, it gouged through his diaphragm and up into his heart. She twisted it and pulled out harshly.
Iris then turned and rushed deeper into the cavern. She sprinted along around several corners, her eyes as dark as the night. She came to another large room and suddenly she was tackled from the side. Iris let out a yelp as she slammed against the wall. “You can’t defeat me.” The lycan snarled as he held her, he gripped both of her arms so tightly that her weapons fell from her grip. He took her and slammed her to the side. Iris felt a rib crack as his body slammed into her. She cried out, though she turned and gripped his throat with her claws, her fangs lengthened. The lycan snickered as he grabbed a hold of her. “If you were worth anything dead, you would have died hours ago, girl.” He ripped her hand from his throat and latched onto her as he transformed. Iris gasped for air as his claws clutched around her neck collapsing her airway. He took her and tossed her easily to the side and bound after her.
Iris took in a breath as she scrambled away from him, her pulse racing. She grit her teeth as she transformed, she was in her beautiful wolf form as she turned and latched onto his arm. She bit down hard, crushing his bone in his arm, he snarled in pain. They began to fight then, back and forth he’d pin her and she would overturn him. It looked like Iris had the upper hand until suddenly she was harshly slammed to the side. The lycan snickered as her body changed back, Iris lay unconscious on the ground, blood leaked from her nose. “A little roughed up on the edges, but the master will still pay the same, if not more for the trouble.” He grinned as he transformed back and walked toward her to take her away…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 1:07:35 GMT -5
Cassandra leaned into the sweet kiss, she smiled then as a bright white flashed. A gorgeous white barn owl took the place of Iris. She watched as her huge wings spread outward and she shot into the air. Cassandra teleported easily, appearing next at the top of the cliff. She followed behind Iris – continuing to teleport, watching as she lead the way.
She heard the thought in her mind. Cassandra grit her teeth – Iris suddenly slipped into the cavern. Don’t! but Iris was already gone. It seemed her bull headed independence was returning… Cassandra teleported away swiftly. She appeared in her head quarters – where she walked to the wall and took her sword from the mount.
Cassandra teleported back with ease and rushed into the cavern. She followed the carnage of bodies – she could hear Iris’s heartbeat in the distance of the caverns. Cassandra never stepped a foot forward – her body teleported from one spot to the next. She knelt down to a Lycan body – who was dead, stabbed in the ribs… Cassandra glanced up as she could feel a struggle take place.
She teleported to the next room, the alpha approached Iris… She grit her teeth and drew her blood red sword. The Alpha chuckled – a cocky bastard he was. She teleported once more, her sword stabbing directly into his back, straight through his chest. With strength she shifted the sword up and sliced his body in half, coming right up his shoulder blade. It was like the blade was of fire – and melted through his bones like butter. His body fell, split into two like a snake’s tongue… Cassandra grit her teeth and rushed over to Iris’s side.
“We always worked better together… not apart” she sheathed her sword and held her wrist to her lips. “Take a sip… you’ll heal faster” she whispered. She no longer winced as Iris bit into her wrist, drawing a mouthful of blood. Cassandra pulled away and then helped her up. “Well, you found him, hm?” she chuckled and then nodded. “You made good work of the others, I’m impressed your abilities returned so swiftly. You’ll only get better from here… Come on, we need to return that boat…” she lead her out of the cavern.
Soon they came upon the top of the waterfall. There was a strong river that flowed into an even larger pool – which moved in a hurry, over the edge of the cliff…
“The rush of the fight…. Did you enjoy it?” she questioned, turning her head from the pool of crystal waters, looking over Iris. “I always found it to be a good distraction…” she smiled and then drew her sword. “This is that sword you made me… the little wolf emblem here…” she ran her thumb over emblem. “Many Lycans have died by this beauty…” she chuckled and sheathed it once more on her back. “I used to carry it all the time, even sleep with it” she laughed and then nodded.
“Come on – let’s go back to the boat. Then… perhaps home… we have to meet Marcus soon…” she turned to her once more and smiled. “Unless you want to get a hotel and stay one night? A little rest, a get away, before we have to go back to reality?” she stepped forward and placed her hands on her shoulder. “You did really well… I think it is deserving of a nice massage, perhaps, there is a private hot springs we can rent too…” she cupped her cheek. “If that is what you want…” she whispered, grinning now. She kissed her sweetly and then grasped her hand.
They came to the edge of the cliff and she easily teleported back to the boat, her hand waving to Iris…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 9:40:25 GMT -5
The lycan reached down toward Iris, her eyes fluttered and she tried to move away just as Cassandra appeared. Iris watched as the sword sliced through him like butter, killing him easily. Iris gripped Cassandra’s wrist gently and bit down taking a small draw of blood. She glanced up to Cassandra as she was helped up. “I’m sorry, I…I’m not really sure what came over me.” She dusted herself off a bit. She grabbed her pistol and dagger from the floor. She followed Cassandra outside. “The actions felt like someone else doing it.” She spoke and glanced to her, “Like I wasn’t truly in control, it was a strange feeling, I knew exactly where to stab them, I knew exactly what to do and how to do it….but when I was in the midst of the battle with that lycan, he hit me so hard and suddenly fear overwhelmed me…” Iris lowered her eyes slightly, she could remember the sound of her rib crunching. She held her hand up to her side, the pain was gone, Cassandra’s blood had healed her almost as soon as it had washed over her tongue.
Iris stepped to the edge of the cliff, she looked down as the water cascaded toward the bottom. “The flight was incredible.” She spoke and grinned. She turned as Cassandra drew the blade. Iris looked it over, more memories flooding through her mind. She searched Cassandra’s eyes as she spoke. Iris gave a soft smile when she mentioned meeting with Marcus, though her smile split into a smirk as the hot springs and hotel were mentioned. “Hm…” She leaned into the kiss. “That sounds nice.” She whispered after the kiss had finished. She walked to the edge once more. She watched as Cassandra teleported down, her eyes stared down the huge cliff. She grinned then and put her arms out to her sides. She closed her eyes and leaned forward….falling from the cliff…
As Iris plunged down toward the water she suddenly shifted into her owl form. She twirled and cawed as she came down next to the waterfall. She was quick, and silent. She landed with grace upon the boat, taking her human form easily, she giggled happily. “This, is incredible.” She spoke. She looked up to the waterfall. “I can’t believe I can do that, it’s easy…” She looked to Cassandra, a warm smile on her lips. “Too easy.” She shook her head and chuckled playfully.
Iris leaned back as they headed back toward the city. “I want to pick the place.” She spoke, a playful smile on her lips. She seemed to become more of her old self with each hour of the day. Though, she was still different, the good bits of Iris were returning. “You know, Cass, I really am glad to have lost my memory.” She looked to Cassandra a moment. “Some of the things that happened to me, for me to truly understand it, I would have to remember everything, and some of the things that happened I honestly don’t want to remember.” She climbed from the boat as they came ashore. She took Cassandra’s hand into hers and smiled, she looked up the moon was rising into the sky, casting its silver rays upon the world. The city was beautiful at night, the reflection of the moon in the water.
She moved through the city, looking to the shops. They moved through the people easily, the city wasn’t too terribly busy but it was thriving. A scent caught Iris’ attention. She glanced around her brows drew together. “What is that?” She questioned. Her eyes fell on it there. A restaurant. Her mouth was already watering, her stomach growled and she instantly realized just how hungry she was. Iris grinned to Cassandra, “If we are going to stay the night, we should eat, shouldn’t we?” She grinned happily and pulled her to the restaurant.
They were greeted by a waiter dressed to the T. He looked to the two a moment, “Right this way, ladies.” He spoke and led them inside. The restaurant was fancy, to say the least. It had a small water fountain with coy fish swimming within it. They were led to a small booth in the back, the restaurant was quiet. The waiter set two menus before them and soon enough a bottle of wine was brought forward. “Compliments of our manger, my lady. Thank you for your courage and sacrifice.” He bowed his head to Cassandra before he poured the glass of sweet white wine.
Iris grinned as she opened the menu, “Wow.” She spoke as she looked it over, they had everything, and everything sounded incredible.
Before long an appetizer was brought out, the waiter smiled again. “Again, compliments of our manager, enjoy.” He smiled and disappeared again.
Iris looked to Cassandra and then she looked to the spread of assorted items. She grinned, “You know, Cass, you never really mentioned how much attention you get because of what you’ve done to save this world.” She crunched on an avocado egg roll, it was delightfully crunchy. “Is it strange? To get so much attention?” She questioned. “I know…I remember the ball, all the attention I received, I hated all of it, as a royal all of the attention was always on me…I feel like it still is, my family is so expectant of me to take over rule as the queen…but this…” She looked around, “This is where I belong, I belong at your side, Cass…not locked away in some mansion…” She shook her head.
Iris sighed softly and then smiled once again to Cassandra. “What is your favorite memory of us?” She questioned, she searched her eyes as she awaited a response. “I remember dancing with you at the ball, I remember my heart pounding, I was nervous, yet I didn’t show it, and I was so intrigued by you…I wanted nothing more than to dance with you.” She grinned then, “I’d never felt such a pull before that….I know that…just as now, I wouldn’t choose to be anywhere else but here.”
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Post by Raven on Jun 27, 2018 13:51:15 GMT -5
Cassandra watched as Iris transformed once more into a beautiful owl. She descended downward from the cliffs, the glorious waterfall was a proper backdrop to the image. Cassandra smiled as she landed on the boat, transforming to her normal self...
“I am glad that your ability to summon your clothing is still a thing, at first your transformation left you in the nude. Though, I didn’t mind” she winked and then sat down in the back of the boat. She rowed them back to the dock and returned the boat to the keeper, who stood waiting..
Cassandra linked her hand into Iris’s as they walked the streets. “I always found this place to be so peaceful. It’s such a naive little place....” she chuckled and followed as Iris lead her into the restaurant. “I haven’t been here before – smells good” she spoke as they stood at the ‘to be seated’ sign.
They sat down in the quiet booth and Cassandra smiled as the wine was set down. “Well.. thank you, I appreciate it” she nodded and accepted the wine. She took a sip and nodded “Not bad..” she grinned. “Though for a while I was spoiled with your families collection of hundred year old whiskey... I will say my first few months was littered with really good glasses of wine and such...” she chuckled. “I do adore the value your father puts into a good glass of alcohol.” She sipped once more.
She watched as the eggrolls were place. “Wow, um, thank you” she nodded once more and shifted in her seat. She listened as Iris made commentary, and questioned – about the attention she received. “Hmm... the type of attention I get is different than royalty. Royalty comes with expectations and... people usually treat you like you are spoiled...which... I mean... the old Iris was very spoiled” she winked as she took a bite of the eggroll.
“Where as... I am treated differently. It’s hard to explain... but this happens a lot” she held up the wine. “People are genuine when they say thank you, and it is rarely laced with doubt or anger. Not to say that the coven receives that treatment, but that many people resent royalty. Your family has done much for their city, so they get treated in the same way I tend to...” she shrugged then “I guess I just don’t have the expectations, I do as I please, and people love it? I never... really thought of this before” she chuckled and took another sip.
“I never meant to draw attention to myself like this... but I guess it is a nice change of pace. I came from nothing, an orphanage... I was taken in by the Order and was unknowingly being drained, I was a slave to Dylan’s wishes... but now... I have been given an opportunity, one that you gave me... to make a true difference, and bring peace to the people. I can die happily now, knowing I have done that...” she finished her eggroll and tilted her head...
“You never liked being royal. Just as you distaste the idea now. You wanted to be free, make your own choices, and be your own being... though you often sacrificed that for your families’ happiness. Sometimes you’d rebel, but in the end you would succumb, because your love for your family is undying...” she sipped her wine again.
“Your father knew that though – he has been trying to break the traditions for years, but it has been a struggle... he wants you to be free.” She then looked to the menu... she flipped through the pages until she selected a few sushi rolls. “It has been some time since I’ve had sushi..” she grinned.
The waitress returned and she submitted her two rolls, and then resumed her conversation. “My favorite memory, hm?” she pondered for a moment. “We didn’t share too many, believe it or not... we were always plotting the next attack... but we have a few... there was one that I remember quite well. I gave you a massage while you rest in the tub – you fell asleep” she chuckled “It felt... like we had been together forever in that second. I picked you up and dressed you, and brought you to bed. I remember thinking – that it was as if we had our own place, and it was a make believe – typical night in the house” she chuckled then and shrugged. “Sometimes... I’d day dream what it would be like to just relax, live together – that memory made me think of what it would be like...”
“I remember the ball yes... It was a little early on in our relationship. It did not end very well, unfortunately, but I remember it being one of the first real interactions in which you really swooned me” she grinned then. “In between all of the chaos of my life transitioning – it was hard to figure out the feelings I was having...” she looked to the waitress – who sat down platters of food.
Cassandra pulled her chop sticks apart and lifted one of the rolls and bit into it. She grinned as the flavor washed over her “Mmm, this is good” she spoke – mouth half full. She swallowed and through for a moment – “So tell me then – new Iris... what do you want out of this world then?” she questioned, picking up another sushi roll..
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 14:40:55 GMT -5
Iris smiled and let out a soft laugh, “Well I do hope I don’t act like a spoiled brat.” She raised a brow as she took another bite of her food, a playful smile on her lips. Iris thought a long moment as Cassandra spoke of the orphanage and of Dylan, her smile had faded slightly. She hated to think that Cassandra was raised like that, as a blood slave to him. She took in a breath and then let out a chuckle as Cassandra spoke of her dislike of royalty. “At least my ideas still align?” She asked and took a sip of her wine. Iris closed her eyes slightly for a moment as she listened to Cassandra speak of the memory, she was trying to imagine it. She couldn’t remember this moment. She smiled, “That sounds lovely, like a dream.” She grinned then, “A dream that could be reality hm?” She questioned and took another bite of the appetizer.
Iris smiled sweetly, “Early on I’d fallen for you, I remember thinking about it, and fighting it, but at the same time, I didn’t want to fight it…” She took another drink of wine and the waiter topped off her glass. “I didn’t care if I wasn’t supposed to be interested in you, a human.” She chuckled, “Then again, you say I was quite rebellious? So, this must be why I acted in such a way.”
Iris leaned back slightly at the question, thinking. “What I want is for the council to rule over all of the covens, no more royalty, small covens from city to city that all align with the council. A member from each coven in the council to voice the opinions of their people. None of this inherited bullshit. Especially now…how am I supposed to lead what I do not know? I will remember, that’s what you say…but what if I never fully remember? What am I as a Queen then?” She questioned, “How can such a large responsibility be placed upon one or two people for centuries?” She took another drink of wine. “Then the corrupt enter power and that corruption spreads to the coven, and where does that lead us? Do we then hunt our own kind? Must we kill off an entire coven to disrupt such corruption?” She questioned, her brow raised. She shook her head. “The entire structure seems corrupted to me.” She muttered. “I want to rid the world of the corruption, of the death and torture. I want to make everything right, just as you do. The letter that Riskel spoke of, the king from the south. What if he is really in danger? No one is helping him…and what if his coven falls because of this? What if those who survive turn against the council? The order? Everything in this world seems to be in a delicate balance. One push too far can send it spinning out of control…”
Iris paused then, she’d finished another glass of wine and was on her third. Her cheeks were rather pink by this point. She hadn’t even touched her food that was set before her. “Out of everything, I want that fairytale dream that you speak of, I don’t want to have to go around and murder lycans. Why must they all be so cruel? Is it because they have been hunted for so long that it is the only thing they know? You said that the scientist that is second hand to you in the order is a lycan. What is so different about him?” She paused a moment, thinking. “What if we can find the good lycans like him? End the wars with the lycans and truly bring peace to this world? Where no one fears to sleep at night for fear of a lycan busting into their home and killing them…” She shook her head. “It’s a dream though, isn’t it? Not a reality.” She finished off the third glass and a fourth was poured. Iris was quite tipsy by this point. She let out a soft giggle. “I just…want to right all of the wrongs…” She spoke before she lifted up a piece of sushi and finally took her first bit. She hummed happily, “This is quite exquisite.” She noted.
Iris then looked to Cassandra, a brow raised slightly. “Am I wrong to want such things? Is it an unreachable dream?” She questioned then curiously.
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Post by Raven on Jun 27, 2018 14:59:50 GMT -5
Cassandra listened as Iris began to peg one valid point after another. She was surprised momentarily – the previous Iris wished for all Lycan scum to become paste on the ground. Though, Iris’s thoughts were pure... She tilted her head – listening even more so.
“The reason the Lycans are the way they are... is because their leadership promotes it. Their organization is built on a tier of strength, the strongest lead. To become an alpha or higher you must kill the person you intent to replace... there is no promotion any other way... So immediately it feasts on the cruel inhumane murders and aggression... Secondly, they work in a way that forces all weaker Lycan’s to adhere. So... in order to stay alive – you must perform your duties and act like your alpha. In other words – the ‘good’ Lycans are killed swiftly, they are considered a weakness to the pack, like a sick pup holding the team back...” she took a bite of her sushi and thought for a moment.
“The scientist... he was on that path of being killed for his weakness, if not for his studies and past – he would have been killed ages ago, but Arden coveted him for his abilities... so he had some what of an upper hand, something other Lycans didn’t have...” she sipped on her wine... she had only had 1 glass, over the years her drinking had really settled down...
“But I agree... there should be some sort of harmony, rather than war. Good Lycans exist, and they equally need protection against their kind. The Lycan community is beyond corrupt, they feed off of aggression and war, it is the air they breath... I’ve been trying to weaken their leadership, killing off the top dogs... it has helped really push back their efforts, but they stand strong despite it all. At least the amount of attacks are much less... but they are just more... animalistic, than they are cognitive...” she thought for a moment.
“It is interesting to see you think on this level though. It is very... human of you” she chuckled “You have lived for over 500 years, witnessed so many terrible things... every vampire your age has an internal hatred for Lycans, mostly fueling off of grudges and bad memories... but now you show a bit of pity, a naive trait of a young vampire.” She grinned then and tilted her head back forth, thinking. “But... I think it is a good thing, I think that thought is the new wave of the future. We can never end that war.. unless we can create some kind of pact... how do we get there? Hmm... we’d just have to start searching for those Good Lycans” she finished her roll of sushi.
“There is an old book I read, when Vampires and Lycans first originated there was a 200 year long peace. Each had the same goals and vision, but some where.. something happened. Perhaps on both sides? We see how even our council was corrupt, we equally are just as bad, hm? But...peace is possible... we just all have to want that.” She thought for a long moment. “Almost as if there needs to be a higher council? Members of Humans...Vampires and Lycans alike – who come together with the same thoughts, and figure out how to keep that peace... hell, we could all thrive together...” she sighed softly. “A distant dream, so many barriers to over come.... some might not ever adhere just due to sheer differences. Lycans are abominations, Vampires are leeches, and the superior race is the humans” she chuckled and then winked.
“I think meeting Marcus is the next best step. I agree, you are not fit to be Queen – not under these circumstances. You are a brand new person, your history doesn’t matter any more... You must rebuild. If you want peace, I am with you... Marcus might remember the days of peace, maybe we can take it to the next level...” she smiled and then shrugged. “But... lets not sorry so much, we have a few hundred years to work it out, hm?” she grinned.
“So, would you like to stay the night?” she questioned as she payed the bill, it wasn’t too much – but she tipped extra, the same amount that the wine and appetizer might have been. “Come on” she chuckled, wrapping an arm about Iris – as she wobbled slightly.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 15:51:30 GMT -5
Iris listened to Cassandra reply as she ate her food. She finished off her glass and nodded. “Meeting with Marcus is a good step…and naïve as I may be…there has to be good in them, just as there are plenty of good humans. Not all vampires are pure of heart…no creature is perfect.” She spoke as she leaned into Cassandra, she giggled slightly. “Hm, I feel lovely. That was a lovely dinner.” Iris looked to her and grinned, “Of course we are staying. Why wouldn’t we?” She questioned, a smile on her lips. She led Cassandra through the streets, looking to the beautiful architecture of the city. “Hmmm you mentioned hot springs…” She spoke as she looked up to a sign for a hotel, it was a rather fancy hotel that catered to the rich usually.
“Let’s see…” She wondered in with Cassandra.
The woman looked up from behind the counter. “Can I help you?” She asked, her expression contorted slightly, she then looked to Cassandra and straightened. “Master Cassandra.” She spoke and bowed deeply. “What brings you to us this evening?”
Iris chuckled slightly, Cassandra being the center stage would never get old. “We would like a room.” Iris spoke, a warm smile on her lips.
The woman looked to her a moment, her expression became blank slightly. “Oh, yes, yes of course.” She rummaged and pulled a key. “Right this way.”
Iris had warped her mind without meaning to. Changing the woman’s thoughts about her. She didn’t look rich, but she also didn’t look poor. Though, her new attire made her rather spunky looking it took away her royal appearance that she’d had before. She held Cassandra’s hand as they moved through the hotel and into an elevator. The went up to the top floor where the woman led them to a beautiful suite. “Thank you.” She spoke as they stepped inside. Iris grinned as she looked about the room, a huge bed, a bathroom that had a large jacuzzi type tub, not the hot springs but it would do.
Iris turned to Cassandra, she giggled slightly. “Now…I have a lot of memories…with you.” She leaned forward and kissed her sweetly a long moment. Iris chuckled as she stepped back and to the bathroom where she began to draw a hot bath. She stripped from her clothes and climbed into the bubbles. “Come on.” She spoke and beckoned Cassandra to come in with her.
The night went gloriously. Iris massaged Cassandra and they spoke of the dream like future of the little cabin in the woods away from everything. They moved from the bath to the bed and passion escalated from there. Iris gripped a hold of Cassandra and worked to make up for being gone for three years…
Several hours later Iris lay breathless, Cassandra pulled into her chest, her arm wrapped around her, she smiled happily, her eyes fluttered. “That…was incredible.” She whispered softly, her lips pressed to Cassandra’s forehead as she fell asleep.
**
The morning sun came swiftly, peeking into the room and casting over Iris’ body. She was curled up in the blankets of the bed snoozing happily, her hair was a mess from the escapade during the night. Iris turned and curled into Cassandra, her nose pressed into the nape of her neck as she slept.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 22:57:34 GMT -5
The next morning came swiftly. She woke in the bed – the sheets barely covered her body, which was a mass of tangled limbs along with Iris. Their legs intertwined, arms holding onto each other – it was a blissful way to wake by the early sunrise. Her eyes slowly opened – her duel toned gaze fell upon the elegant beauty before her. They rolled over her cheeks, counting her eye lashes, and falling over Iris’s bare shoulders. She leaned forward and kissed her shoulder. Soft gentle skin, smooth as can be. She relished in the fact that their youth was preserved so finely. The aging of a vampire was incredibly slow, something she had come to love… especially now.
As Iris woke – Cassandra smiled and leaned forward, offering a sweet morning kiss. “Good morning my love’ she whispered. Their night had been full of sensation – they even drank from each other in the midst of the commotion – which to them was one of the highest forms of passion, a true moment of ultimate trust and bonding…
Cassandra leaned back as the memories o the night flooded over her brain, she grinned as she remember. Their bodies rolling, touching, breathing was loud – the room was flooded with their combined sounds… She turned her gaze to Iris and smiled “I hope you had a good night..” she spoke as she slipped from the sheets. Their clothes were strolled about the room – a bit of a catastrophe. She remembered them clawing at each other the moment the door shut, as if they picked up from their last night together.
Cassandra leaned down and plucked her underwear and slipped them on… then her tunic and pants. Her chest piece was close to a corset, belts lined all the way up to her breasts. She had a roll of silver knives wrapped about her forearm… her boots came up to her knees, an equal amount of belts and buckles about it…
She turned then and grinned – “Well, coffee from our favorite shop, and then return home?” she questioned. Cassandra pulled her hair into a high pony tail, her bangs swooping about her forehead, the ashen hair was as fresh as ever. They made way to the café, retrieved their coffee and muffin - and soon enough they stood in the ally way, in between the shop. “Let us return..” she grasped Iris and then teleported.
They appeared next in the mansion, at the base of the stairs. Upon their arrival – Lucille came to the top of the stairs – smiling. “Did you both have a nice get away?” she smiled and came down the stairs. “Welcome home my love” she hugged onto Iris and nodded. “Come, we’ll have tea and talk about what you’ve learned… Sebastian and I have been discussing your future…” she led them to the kitchen. “It really just depends on where you are right now…” she glanced to Iris with soft eyes.
Cassandra put the kettle on and leaned against the counter, looking to the two. “Well… it has been an adventure, much to still discover. All I can say, from my point of view, is we cannot expect her to pick up where she left off – if ever. She had the luxury of a reset button, and we should seize that. I want to give Iris the life she always wanted… you understand?” she looked to Lucille…
Lucille nodded slowly “I do too… the old Iris had so much upon her shoulders, and bared more pain than I ever could…” she shook her head. “We are traveling tomorrow to meet Marcus – you are coming, yes? So… tell me your thoughts… Iris my dear…” she poured three glasses of tea from the hot kettle and sat down, cup in hand…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 27, 2018 23:43:44 GMT -5
Iris’ eyes fluttered open to the gentle kisses upon her shoulder. She was greeted with a sweet kiss that sent her heart fluttering. She smiled playfully. “A splendid night.” She chuckled as she moved about the room picking up her clothing. “I do hope you had a good night too.” She grinned playfully before she’d kissed Cassandra once more. She followed Cassandra to the coffee shop, the smells of the coffee brought a smile to her lips. “You spoil me with such incredible breakfasts.” She chuckled as she took a bite of her muffin. She then leaned into Cassandra as they teleported home.
Iris closed her eyes, her head still spun from the teleportation. She looked up to her mother as she made her way down the stairs. Iris returned the hug to her mother and gave a soft smile. “We did.” She replied to her mother’s questions. She then looked to Cassandra with a playful smile as they moved to the next room.
She sat down at the table as she looked to Cassandra and her mother, she was silent as she listened to them. When Lucille looked to her once more she nodded as she wrapped her fingers around the hot mug of tea. “I cannot remember most things.” She spoke, “Though, it may come in time…” She shook her head then. “I can’t be the queen that you request me to be, I barely even know myself…” She looked to her mother for a long moment. “Cassandra said that father has been working to end our old structure?” She questioned. “I believe it would be best if the council were to oversee the covens, a member from each coven should have a seat and a say in the council. It would provide less of a breeding ground for corruption.” She tilted her head slightly. “I’ve also discussed with Cass that we should seek out the Lycans that are not corrupt. It would be wise to find the good Lycans much like the scientist that she is partnered with in the order….”
Lucille’s brows rose slightly as Iris made the suggestion. She cleared her throat slightly. “Lycans are not, good, dear….” She took a sip of her tea. “Though, Nigel has caused me to wonder if there are more like him…”
“There is good and evil in everything.” Iris spoke softly. “There are corrupt vampires as well, mother.”
Lucille nodded slowly, “This is true. You make a valid point, dear.” She then smiled, “You think much differently than you did before.” She chuckled softly. “Though, that is to be expected with such a great loss of memory.” She drank a bit of her tea again. “Your father has gone ahead of us, to begin breaching the topic of your life, he has taken the pin with him, hopefully Marcus knows something of it…of how this was done to you…” She shook her head. “I can only imagine what it is like to wander this world with a fresh mind.”
“I prefer it.” Iris spoke, “It sounds like I was pretty set in my ways, and though I rebelled, I was to follow the path that was set before me.” She shook her head. “I want to make a difference mother, I want to end the corruption…the dangers…”
Lucille grit her teeth slightly, “And risk getting killed?” She questioned. “Just as soon as you come back…you want to run off and get yourself killed?” Her eyes were sad. “Iris, I do believe you should rethink how you plan to spend your life…” Her voice grew soft.
“I don’t plan on getting killed, mother.”
“You didn’t plan on it before, but you sacrificed yourself to save us…I….I can’t lose you again…” She whispered.
Iris placed her hand over her mother’s, a soft smile on her lips. “Don’t worry mother.” She searched her eyes. “I promise I’ll be safe….besides…” She glanced to Cassandra with a smile, “I do have the leader of the order with me, and I’m fairly certain she doesn’t plan on allowing me to die any time soon.”
Lucille took in a breath, her eyes sad. “Just…think about it Iris, your life…the life that you’ve had…you’ve always had to fight…you don’t have to anymore…”
“But I do.” Iris replied, “Mother we were attacked in Ascabar…a peaceful city, because the Lycans wanted me…he said they had searched for me for three years…I unfortunately as much as I would rather never lift a pistol again, or stab into an enemy again, I will have to…as a right of survival.” Iris took in a deep breath. “If I do not stand up and fight, I am as good as dead.”
Lucille watched her daughter, a soft smile crept to her lips. “You may have lost your memories, but you are still very thoughtful. I’m glad to see you’ve retained that..” She sighed softly. “Just please…” She looked to Cassandra. “The both of you, I can’t handle a loss like that again…the past three years have been a nightmare.” Lucille stood then. “I have a meeting in town that I must attend.” She gave a gentle smile. “I’ll be back for dinner.” She stepped forward and hugged Iris. “I’m so glad to have you back, dear.” She squeezed her for another long moment before she released her and slipped from the room.
Iris looked to Cassandra a moment, “Are the goals I have a mistake?” She questioned. “Should I not try to pursue this? Is it too dangerous? I don’t want to put my mother through my death…or yours…” She lowered her eyes.
“Ahh Iris.” Riskel came into the room, a smile on his lips. “It is good to see you.” He spoke as he stepped forward.
Iris looked up to Riskel, her eyes darkened slightly. “Hm, and you.” She replied.
Riskel searched her eyes a moment, “So, are you to stand up and be the queen then?” He questioned.
“No, I will not.” Iris spoke, her royal tone in her voice. “This corrupt system will not last much longer.” She stood, her eyes staring to him.
Riskel took in a breath. “Iris…” He watched her. “I…” He glanced to Cassandra, he wasn’t sure how to handle her before, and she seemed to have grown even more bullheaded now.
“I didn’t love you before, I don’t love you now, Riskel. How could I be your queen?” She questioned and shook her head. “This whole tradition has stayed the same for too many centuries, change must come.” Her eyes had darkened quite a bit in his presence, her fangs were visible as she spoke. He agitated her. The only few memories she had of him were of their spats. She glanced to Cassandra a moment before she slipped from the room.
Riskel let out an exasperated sigh. “I had hoped her memory loss would cause her to lose her stubborn attitude…” He muttered. He glanced to Cassandra. “Have you time to discuss the southern continent?” He questioned. “I’ve received a second more urgent letter from the king…” He let out a breath, “I honestly am not sure what to do, Cassandra. I am genuinely asking for your assistance. He seems to be in a great danger. He mentioned something of the humans banding together down there, somehow they have started a movement against the vampires and lycans. There are hunters. His coven is being picked off one by one, be it by Lycans or the hunters…humans usually do not attack us, we can block their memories, I’m not sure how this has gotten out of hand. Possibly he hasn’t told me the entire story, but what he has told me is gruesome.” Riskel watched her a moment. “So please, a moment of your time…”
**
Iris walked through the home. She looked up to the old painting of her and her parents, memories moving through her mind. She traced her fingertips over the ridges of the paint. She remembered sitting for this painting, it was exhausting, to sit so still for so long, in such hot clothing. She was in a beautiful blue dress in the image, long sleeves even. She let out a slow breath as she moved and made her way up the stairs. She rounded a corner and bumped into Julian. “Iris.” He grinned and hugged onto her as he balanced her. “How are you feeling?” He questioned.
Iris looked to him, a soft smile on her lips. Julian had always been her best friend. She remembered that. Small memories between the two, she told him everything. He was the only one that she truly was herself with before Cassandra. “I feel well, I still don’t remember everything, but I think it’s better that way. Some of my memories that have returned I would much rather forget.”
Julian nodded, “I can only imagine, you’ve been through a great deal.” He released her from the hug. “Are you going to meet with Marcus tomorrow?” He questioned.
“Yes, of course. I believe he may have some of the answers that Cass and I are searching for.” She nodded.
Julian smiled, “Good then. What are you doing?” He asked softly.
“Just looking around, trying to remember.” Iris gave a gentle smile. “There is a lot of history in this old home.” She spoke as she began down the hallway again. “Centuries of knowledge.” She chuckled as she stopped before another painting.
“That there is. If you need anything I will be in the study.” He spoke as he walked down the hallway. Iris only returned a nod as she continued, she began glancing in each room, taking it all in. Her memories seemed to come more freely. A scene of her and Julian fencing here, a spat with Peter there. A drink or two with her father. A soft smile curved up Iris’ lips as she stepped into her room finally. She walked out onto the balcony and took in a deep breath of the fresh air. The memories didn’t bother her nearly as much, it wasn’t as overwhelming. Iris gripped the handle, she raised her brow slightly as she wondered where Cassandra was.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 28, 2018 0:26:02 GMT -5
Cassandra crossed her arms as she listened to Lucille talk. 3 years later and nothing had really changed. An eternity of life seemed to shake Lucille, her fear of losing her daughter was beyond her, it shackled her in place. It is the reason they remained so idle in the fight. Not even 5 years into Cassandra’s vampire-hood and she had already shaped the earth… to be given such power, and remain controlled by fear… it was sad…
Cassandra shifted slightly “I think our first step is with Marcus, knowledge is power… I won’t let anything happen to her, but I agree. The fight will never stop following her, she was born with that curse – the blood line of greatness, just as I have it.. someone will always be hunting me. It would be better to hone in her skills… she has began morphing into other creatures, who knows what other potential rests under her fingers…” she then turned as Lucille left the room, she clearly didn’t appreciate Cassandra’s comments either.
Cassandra sighed and shook her head. “500 years and she still coddles you..” she chuckled “She fears too much, you’ll never be you as long as she hovers over you.. I’ve always thought that. Your family sticks together because it is all they have – to live eternity, all you have is your family… but… you have to grow. You have never had a moment from under her wing…” she crossed her arms. “I suppose the human in me is used to a different… tactic in life… You can’t sit in fear, you can’t rely on someone else to protect you. You have to go and seize life, because no one is going to do it for you…” Cassandra then turned as Riskel entered the room.
She sighed deeply and looked to him – “Have you done a I asked? Did you figure the amount of effort you require? I did not say no to you so… don’t acted so desperate. Come… let’s talk, if you want a minute…” she glanced to Iris and then nodded.
She followed Riskel into another room, where he stepped over and poured two glasses of whiskey. Cassandra accepted the glass and sipped idly, her eyes glancing to the war table. “Do not fret, I will help you. The humans should be easy – I will send a diplomat to talk to them, they are easy to sway when your army is bigger, hm? I have multiple squads that are returning from their missions… I will send them in, a total of 60 men, 4 squads. I will help you – but my Officers will lead the efforts…” she looked to him with serious eyes. “If we require more, I will muster more troops… but they are effective and agile… those are my rules, what do you say then?”
Riskel looked to her with serious eyes… she could tell he didn’t quite want to release control over the situation. It was a political move – Cassandra was taking the credit away from Riskel, at least that is what he believed. “I have a handle on the war front… I just need men” Riskel looked to her.
“We operate differently than a standard War front. My men are trained assassins, we don’t rush the field – we slice the enemy in the weak points, and ambush…. We are a cogwheel, that needs to be perfectly aligned… This is how we have been so successful… it is a completely different kind of fight…” she crossed her arms. “You want my help? That is the terms…”
Riskel sighed deeply “Fine – but I will make the contacts with the king…” he spoke.
“You can have all the bloody glory, I could care less… Riskel can be the high and divine savior of the southern realms…” She set her cup of whiskey down and shook her head. “You are becoming a little too involved in your position as King…” she scoffed.
Riskel sighed and set his drink down as well. “Do you think Iris will return to my side?”
“Riskel, you and I both know that Iris was never on your side. Prior to her death – she was too shaken by Warren’s death to even accept your rise. You… are here because your father put you here, despite his treason. You remain because you are a good King, with good intentions… Iris – she doesn’t even know who she is, it will be a long time, if ever, if she returns to her previous state… What she is enduring is easily the most painful – and hardest thing one could ever deal with. Imagine if your memory was wiped, all knowledge of your life, of what makes you – you – is ripped away. They memories rush you but you cannot make sense of them. Your mental state takes a toll – to keep yourself together is difficult enough… Now place really high expectations ontop of that, and a group of people who are constantly asking her to just leap over that struggle, hm? 3 years of her absence and you want her back immediately? It is insensitive and cruel. Consider her dead… The new Iris has been born in her place, and we must deal with that….” Her voice was rather cold as she stared to him.
Riskel grit his teeth and stepped back. “You have always held this grudge against me” he spoke and scoffed. “A jealousy – as I am her husband” he bit his lower lip as he tried to control his anger.
“She doesn’t even know you – you do not fucking own her” she spat. “Her entire family has controlled her since the day she’s been alive – let her fucking breath!” she shouted then.
Riskel crossed his arms and sighed. “No need to fight… “ he sighed. “It is a battle I’ll lose anyways…” he sighed.
“Just focus on leading your people…” Cassandra turned then and left the room.
Riskel sat down in his chair and sighed deeply… his eyes looking over the war table. He wanted to fight… but he would lose his ground – he needed Cassandra more than he needed to win the fight… which he was right, he would lose easily.
Cassandra steamed, she made her way through the house – following the familiar beat of Iris’s heart. She approached her and placed a hand on her shoulder. “Doing ok?” she spoke calmly, smiling weakly. She stood on the balcony with Iris – looking over into the distance, the forest seemed to have grown taller and thicker in the past 3 years..
“I wish your family would quit mourning, and finally just appreciate your life… I also wish they’d let you be free. I can only hope that Sebastian uses his head more than his heart…” she crossed her arms. “In the end - I'll make sure you get what you want. We'll change the world, I promise..." she finally stepped back inside and poured two glasses of wine.
“I need a drink after dealing with that idiotic King… I wish Sebastian lead us once more…” she shook her head and took a long swig. She then moved to the bed and sat down. “You know… I’ve only been a vampire for almost 4 years now… and I have completely reshaped our world…” she shook her head “you and me? We could do it, I know we can…” she stood and finished her wine easily.
“Can we just go back to our little town on the water?” she chuckled “I’m already stressed out by this commotion” she stepped over and then sat down at Iris’s desk. She picked up a pen and began to write a letter – commands to her people…
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