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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 19:18:14 GMT -5
Cassandra slowly rose as she heard someone enter the room, she held her hand to her head – which throbbed slightly. “Oh man…” she whispered and rolled from the bed. She stood and stretched, just as Julian left the room… She looked to Iris – who emerged in a fresh new outfit… Cassandra moved to view the rising sun – she smiled slightly, the view was astonishing. “Quite lovely…” she spoke and then turned.
“I actually have my normal outfit…” she pulled a bag from the reading chair, it was on Bran at the time. She stood behind a dressing screen and changed. She preferred her outfit – she could move easily, and it was reinforced leather, so it had a little more protection. She was always ready for a fight – Lycans seem to pounce from every shadow, at any given time…
Cass chuckled when Iris put the flower in her hair. “I guess I a need a bit of a feminine touch” she touched the clip and then smiled. “I am really hungry so, I am looking forward to this” she chuckled and followed Iris down to the dining room.
The mansion was elaborate, even down to the rugs, trim on the marble floor… fresh paint on the walls… Cassandra made it down the stairs and sat at the remaining open seat. Her eyes glanced to Peter, which made her extremely uncomfortable – as he stared to her with a lustful glare. She squeezed her brows together and then began to load her place. The small talk commenced, the table was like a family – it was an admirable sight to see. Everyone laughing and joking. They occasionally asked Cassandra questions – she shared a few stories, but nothing too personal…
As they cleaned up, Cassandra handed her plate off and then stood as Julian directed her to the living room. “So… you folks are pretty old hm?” she looked to the painting, it was so old that it was very slightly cracked… “You don’t age really..” she chuckled. “Iris looks a little older, makes me curious how old the others are…” she moved to a bookshelf, which had an extremely ancient collection lined up. She could barely read the titles on the bindings, faded and even some ripped a little. “It is hard to wrap my head around…” she smiled then.
“So, Iris had a human friend? I think that must be tough. You live forever, and yet humans…” she sighed softly. “I could see why you much rather hide than fight… humans are weak, and live such short lives, the potential is so limited. While you, you could achieve such greatness with time behind your back, living a long healthy life is more advantageous… so much to do, an only 60 years or so to do it? You spend half of it just trying to understand what the hell life is…” she crossed her arms and chuckled. “Yet, I throw it away – trying to fight a demon that never dies…” she shook her head. “You cut down 1 lycan, and two seem to replace it…I wish I knew a way to end them, once a for all…”
She turned then as Iris entered, speaking to the two… She followed her through the mansion, until she stood before the study. “Right then… thank you.” She nodded and stepped inside.
Cassandra moved before the King.. she sat down in the chair across from him and crossed her legs, her eyes glancing about the room slightly as he spoke. “Vladimir… that makes a lot of sense. The myths, nearly a thousand years ago, began with the name Vladimir. The stories became cross, and eventually died away as a horror story you might tell about a campfire. However your kind hid yourself, it worked very well. Any human speaking nonsense of vampires these days are cast away as crazies…” she leaned back and listened to his deal.
“I must first thank you for allowing me that freedom. If such a power were given to a human – I couldn’t say the same decision would be made. It would easily be as you say the history books play it to be, a blood bank…” she nodded. “This tells me much of your intentions, and true heart. I think Iris has shown me more kindness than I’ve ever received from my human counterparts – though, as you say it, I’m not much a human, Am I?” she questioned.
“I always knew I was different… faster, stronger, I heal so quickly..” she held up her wrist – the cut was completely gone. “I had a hard time hiding these strengths, I rode it off as just good luck…. But a Hybrid? I never knew my parents, I grew up in an orphanage, and after my home was destroyed – I joined the Order, just at age 10. They trained me, and I began to take on missions at 13…” she paused and glanced to her knife.
She pulled it out and set it down. It had scriptures on it, elven scriptures. “This was given to me… When I returned the head of Lycan – Helio Wravengard, a coven leader… it was a big blow to the northern clans. That feeling…. Was beyond anything I’ve felt. Unknowingly, these gifts have lead me to be who I am…” she nodded then. “From a military perspective – this alliance is greater than anything I could wish for. Knowing such a powerful entity could side along us, is truly a gift. But – I can’t say that my human counterparts might agree. They may see you as a huge threat…” she paused.
“I think the best way to approach this is for you to be like my sponsor… I continue to operate with the Order, receive the intel.. and your people can help me bring down the horrors that sulk in the shadows…” she paused. “We continue to keep your kind a secret, so when this war is over, you can remain quiet… The humans… they fear anything greater than them… they might appreciate your aid, but in time it will backfire…” she thought for a second, her eyes glancing to the dagger…
She picked it up and resheathed it. “Knowing what I know now… you are the best person to protect me from other Vampire clans… Hypothetically – if I leave your protection, anything could happen. I could have vampires and Lycans hunting me…” she shook her head. “I have no problem offering my blood to those who need it, but only for the sake of saving a life – but… Iris said something about my blood being poison to the Lycans? Stronger that silver?” she pondered. “I want to dive into this concept, can we create bullets, or even oils for a sword?” she stood then and nodded. “Either way, I would be an idiot to leave your protection, and even more of one to refuse your aid. We both have the same enemy, and it just so turns out that your people are quite nice.” She smiled then. “And… well.. I saved your life right? So I highly doubt you’ll turn against me” she nodded.
“So, what is next? We have to stop Ravus… He plans on blowing the whole place up. He has planted bombs around the city, and he is still loose… he killed my best friend Bran…” she took in a deep breath. “I have no intel on when he plans to act, but – we do have that Lycan in custody… perhaps we can get something from him? This should be our priority, yes? No innocents lives should be lost to these scumbag mutts…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 20:01:13 GMT -5
Sebastian grinned when Cassandra spoke of the old myths of vampires, how twisted the stories became. “Over the years the stories of our kind have become rather entertaining, something from a story book and unbelievable.” He chuckled. He then fell quiet as he listened to her speak. His smile faded slightly as he looked to the blade upon his desk. “You are incredibly skilled.” He spoke and then smiled. “Helio reeked havoc upon our kind for centuries.” He watched as she slipped the blade away again. He then offered a friendly smile. “I was friends with the elf that created that blade.” He spoke, a smirk on his lips. “It was the first of its kind. To infuse silver in with the blade, offering a fatal blow to the Lycans. It is incredible that you were gifted such an incredible blade.” He relaxed into his chair again watching her.
Sebastian watched her as she spoke of continuing with the Order. “You must be incredibly careful not to allow them to know of us. They will hunt us if they find out of us.” His voice was low as he watched her. “But you’re right, that would most likely be best, it would raise suspicion if you suddenly left the Order. In that case they would also send scouts and we would end up hunted, I can assure that.” He gave a nod as she spoke of the other vampire covens and Lycan Packs. “You’re very fortunate to have fallen into our hands, this coven is one of the more….forward thinking.” He spoke. “We all reside under the same council, so the rules that are enforced are the same. But many of the other covens would have you for your blood and your life as you know it would be ended, you would be drained to near death day in and day out. I will not allow this to happen.” His jaw tensed slightly. He was incredibly against the idea of harming her, he’d seen it when he was young and it was a painful thing to watch.
The king smirked when she mentioned her blood then. “Iris is a smart girl.” He spoke. “Why I have her work with you on that? She’s very good with weapons. She’s also good at interrogation, you found the lycan, you both can interrogate him. I have a lot to get caught up on in my absence, my wife has worked hard to keep up on it, but it is a lot of work for one to keep up with.” He offered a smile. “Warren told me of the attack that is planned, but he did not mention bombs…” He thought for a moment. “Tonight I will attend the festivities, it will put fear in Ravus, myself and Iris are a threat to him, he knows that we stop at nothing to protect our people. I hope that will divert him, or in the least he will show himself and we can stop him. I don’t want any more lives lost. I am truly sorry about your friend Bran. Iris told me she is working on a memorial for him. She also told me that Ravus sought to turn him…” His eyes narrowed slightly. “Those bastards will do anything to ruin the world around them.” He shook his head. “We will stop him, I assure you. We will stop him before he harms another human or vampire. I protect this city. The humans of our city live quite happy lives without the constant threat of Lycans…with my absence it seems Ravus has forgotten our laws.”
Sebastian stood slowly he offered a gentle smile as he led her toward the door. “Tonight, we shall dance with the Lycans.” His smile was a bit devilish, “Until each one lies upon the ground I will not stop.” He nodded to her as he opened the door. “Iris dear.”
Iris was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. She stood and looked to the two. “Yes father?” She asked her eyes searching his.
“Why don’t you take Cassandra to the armory? We should work with her blood, see what it can do. She wants to try it in bullets or in an oil for a blade. Test it on the Lycan once you’ve finished your questioning, hm? I’ll see you at the festival tonight.” He spoke before he retreated back into his study and sat back at his desk.
Iris looked to Cassandra, she smiled wide. “That went well?” She glanced into the study and then walked off down the hallway. “I hope he didn’t press you with too many questions, sometimes he can be a bit overwhelming.” She spoke as she came to a door. She paused and looked to Cassandra, “I’ll keep you safe, I promise.” She spoke before she led her downstairs. It was cool in the basement, the stone walls held in the icy air. She pushed open another door to a room that was dimly lit. Iris walked around and lit up lanterns to bring the light up in the room. She pushed against a brick in the wall and it caused the wall to rotate. “We like our secrets.” She chuckled as weapons were revealed hung upon the wall. “Alright…I hope the books are right about your blood.” She spoke as she moved to a work bench. She pulled a few things out. “Let’s see.” She began grinding away at a piece of metal. Iris looked focused as she worked. Soon enough she held up a bullet. “This is about right, isn’t it?” She moved forward and suddenly she held Cassandra’s revolver in her hands. She popped the spindle out and grinned. “I love these.” She spoke. “They punch pretty hard, enough to easily get through the thick skull of a lycan.” She winked then. Iris seemed to be relaxed, she wasn’t nearly as uptight as she had been before. She held the bullet up to Cassandra then. “Could I borrow your arm?” She asked.
Iris gave a gentle smile as she reached forward and held her hand beneath Cassandra’s forearm. Iris then held the strange looking bullet forward. She pressed the tip to Cassandra’s arm. She would have felt a pinch as the needle pierced into her skin. Iris squeezed slightly, she was incredibly careful. Her eyes melted to the golden color as the smell of Cassandra’s blood entered her nostrils. She closed her eyes a moment before she pulled the bullet away and released Cassandra’s arm. “There.” She held the bullet up to the light. The very tip of the bullet was filled with Cassandra’s blood, just a few drops, but enough to do damage, according to the journals.
Iris shifted her weight then and looked to Cassandra. She popped the bullet into place in the revolver. “I’ll make some more while you work on the oils hm?” She stepped over to a table that held beakers and burners. “Use anything you like.” She nodded before she went back to the table and continued working. “So…Cassandra…what did you and my father work out exactly?” She asked curious as she began to put materials together to create more bullets.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 20:31:17 GMT -5
Cassandra looked to the king and then nodded. “Sounds like it is settled… We will handle that Lycan bastard, and figure out what we can do. If you need anything, let me know… I understand you are protecting me, but I can be useful too. You just tell me what you need done…” she then turned and followed him out the door, approaching Iris, who was waiting patiently…
As they walked Cassandra chucked – “No, he was fine. He is a good leader, thoughtful, and asks the right questions…” she spoke as they came to some secret room. “Oh hm..” she looked to the weapons… There were old swords on the wall, and ancient cross bows… she lifted one and turned it around in her hands.
“Yes.. but revolvers are loud…” she put the crossbow back on the wall of weapons. “In a stealthy take down… I’d much prefer a bow… We can get this oil worked up, then we can dip the bolts in them too…” she spoke and then stepped forward – offering her arm to Iris. “I have a pretty high pain tolerance, so… don’t fear…” she spoke and then stretched her hand outward to her. She watched Iris's eyes change color, but admired the self control... she pondered how difficult it was, what was it like? How strong was that temptation? She almost wanted, in that moment, to offer her blood - just to see what happened, but knew that was a bad idea... Maybe it was like a drug...
She watched as Iris drew her blood, placing it into the bullet. She took the bullet into her hand and looked to it. “Very nice..” she turned it about in her fingertip, and then handed it back to her, watching Iris place it into the cylinder.
She moved to the beakers and what not – she opened the cabinet and looked to the stocked ingredients. “Seemed you guys have a nice stash…” she pulled a few vials down and looked to the names. “Some real old stuff… I’ve read about this…. Oil from a Veshrath Seed, those are long extinct… adds a sort of paralyzing effect…” she placed it back. “I just need a base… Poppy Seed oil is – ah, here it is..” she pulled out a large vial. She poured the contents into a vial and then started up the oil flame, to set the vial over it.
“Your father? We talked about the benefits to our relationship, I can help you guys, you can help me… We talked about the importance of protecting each other. I made it clear that the humans would surely hunt you folk, even if you helped them, so… I will continue to operate solo with the Order, but with you folk helping me in secrecy. This way… I still get the aid, and your kind still remains a secret…” she glanced over her shoulder, to Iris who continued to work on bullets.
“Your father speaks highly of you” she smirked and then pulled out a needle from the drawer. She drew just a little bit of blood from her arm, and then dripped the contents into the oil that was warming up.
“He wants us to interrogate that Lycan you captured – we need to figure out when Ravus might plan to attack… and then try out our new inventions here” she chuckled and pulled a blade from the wall. “What would be super cool is… creating a sword infused with my blood. Melting the metal down… a big of blood in the mix…” she grinned then. She turned the fire off and then placed a rag into the oil, allowing it to soak it all up, so she could use the rag to apply it to the sword.
“Or even, creating a leather sheath and soak it with this oil, that way everytime you draw the sword it applies a fresh coat…” she pondered out lout. “Ah, we’re going to melt them off the face of the world” she cackled evily – but in a very jokingly manner. She then lifted the rag and applied it to the blade. “Right then, lets fuck up that Lycan hm?” she grinned and then sheathed the sword, and strapped it to her back.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 21:05:16 GMT -5
Iris listened as Cassandra spoke. A smile on her lips. “We have a lot of old things in this house that are long gone from the world.” She chuckled. “You’re welcome to the cross bow if you’d like. I’ll make tips for them much like the tips I’ve created for the bullets. I’ll fill the hollow point with a few drops of your blood and upon impact it will shatter and spread into their bloodstream, killing them quickly.” She took in a breath as she thought about the Order. She didn’t like the thought of Cassandra going anywhere alone if any word got around about her being a Dhampir. She only nodded in response to this as she continued working. She’d made several bullets by this time, She used the syringe she’d drawn the blood up with to add blood to each tip.
Iris glanced to Cassandra when she drew her blood, she took in slow breath. “My father and I are much alike.” She spoke with a smile, her eyes were the golden color once again. Iris finished up the bullets and stepped to her side she leaned against the wall, watching curiously. She smiled at the mentioning of infusing a blade with Cassandra’s blood. “I know how to infuse things into metals, I can help with that.” She spoke. “We should be able to do it, that would be an incredible weapon.” She nodded. An entertained smile curved up Iris’ lips when Cassandra cackled. She giggled slightly, “You’re an interesting human.” She spoke watching her as she rubbed the oils onto the sword. She then chuckled once more at Cassandra’s last remark. “Let’s go see where my brother put him.” She pushed the brick on the wall hiding the weapons away. They then left the room and walked down the basement halls. She came to a door that had a thick bolted lock holding it closed. Iris peered inside. “Ah right here, I can smell him.” She winkled her nose.
Iris unbolted the door and pushed into the room. The Lycan was strapped into a chair in the center of the room, a bag over his head. “Who’s there?” He asked, his voice in a panic. “L-Let me go!”
Iris grinned, she could sense his fear. She stepped forward and lifted the bag from his head. “Hello again.” She spoke her face inches from his.
The lycan looked up to her, he had a black eye from how hard she’d slammed him into the wall. His eyes moved to Cassandra then, “You smell lovely.” He spoke and tilted his head slightly, he licked his lips.
Iris growled and slammed her fist into the side of his head. “Focus.” She gripped onto his wrists and leaned forward, her eyes staring into his. “What can you tell me about Ravus’ plans to blow up Netherfall?” She asked, her eyes were a cold icy blue.
The lycan grinned as he looked to her. “I can’t tell you that.” The scrawny lycan spoke, though a tint of fear surrounded his voice.
Iris nodded, “Very well.” She stood and walked over to a table that had an assortment of items on it. Iris lifted a bludgeon that had nails sticking from it. “Still don’t want to talk?” She asked as she stepped over to him. He trembled slightly as he looked to her but her didn’t speak. Iris took the bludgeon and with a grin she slammed it against his abdomen. The force behind her blow was incredible. The lycan groaned in pain as she made a few more blows. Blood lined the wood and dripped from the tips of the nails. She paused and shifted her weight. “How about now?” She asked and stared into his eyes.
The lycan growled. “Go ahead and kill me.” He spoke, blood dripped from his mouth. “I’m not going to give away my pack alpha. You’ll kill me after I answer anyway.”
Iris watched him closely. “Hm, I think soon you’ll change your mind.”
The lycan gasped as she lifted a pair of pliers. “I…I thought you were supposed to be princess.” He stampered, his eyes wide.
“I am.” Iris replied, a smirk on her lips. She reached into his mouth with the pliers. “If you tell me you get to save your canines.” She held onto a tooth. He snarled at her. “Alright.” She spoke and ripped his tooth easily from his mouth. The lycan cried in pain. His body began to morph. The bones snapped his jaw cracked. He thrashed against the straps. Iris took a step back and sighed. “Until you tell me, this will not stop.” She looked to Cassandra. “Your turn?” She asked and then offered a playful smile. She enjoyed this all too much.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 22:08:52 GMT -5
Cassandra looked to Iris as she mentioned the ability to create the sword. “Seems you’ve accumulated a lot of knowledge over the years” she grinned then. “You look to be my age, but yet I must remind myself you are not… Well, never the less – perhaps you can show me, whenever we do it. Blacksmithing is going out of style.. I’d love to tinker with the craft.” She then followed Iris out of the room.
They winded through the hallways until they came about the locked door. As they entered - Cass stood by the door, watching as Iris pried at him to get information. She winced slightly as Iris beat the Lycan, though it was more from the sound. It slammed into him, she could hear his flesh ripping as she pulled it out.
Cassandra stepped forward when Iris offered, and she looked to the Lycan. She allowed the room to grow quiet, and he morphed back to his human form… The Lycan slowly rose his head and looked to her, his eyes swollen with pain. “What’s your name?” she questioned.
“Tyler…” He spoke softly and his head lulled to the side slightly, he had troubles holding it up. Though his wounds began to heal…
“Tyler… what did you do as a human?” she questioned.
Tyler looked to her and his lips pursed for a moment, and then he sighed. “I owned a coffee shop, in Brevala, I had 2 sons and a wife….” He replied softly.
“Brevala… was attacked nearly a year ago, Lycans…” Cassandra spoke and then straightened up. “They murdered your wife and children, and transformed you, to become a slave to their cause… You gave in because you fear them, just as you fear us right now…”
Tyler looked to her, she could sense that his memories flashed before his eyes. “They…. Killed my sons in front of me… raped my wife…” he began to sob.
“Yeah, that’s how they roll. I take it you’ve done some raping yourself, eh?” she questioned.
“W- why am I –“ he sniffed the air. “Your perfume….” He shook his head.
“Yeah it’s a little toxic isn’t it? A little brew a friend of mine came up. It lures you in…” she leaned forward then, allowing him to take a big wiff of her neck. “Your son was dismembered, torn apart – alive, his heart had one last little pump, just before he died – his eyes rolling into the back of his head just as he peered to you. You couldn’t save him… and now, you can barely save yourself…” she touched his shoulder.
“More little boys will be murdered, more women raped, more chaos to reign. You can stop this…” she spoke and then looked to him with soft eyes.
Tyler grit his teeth and shook his head. “I can’t… they’ll kill me…” he shook his head. “I can’t”
“Tyler… You’re going to die in about 10 minutes, either way. So, you can die and a hundred little boys soul’s will follow you, or you can die, and save them all. You pick.” He spoke and then pulled her dagger. She pressed it to his throat, it began to sear his flesh, black lines crawling about his body.
“Fine!” he shouted and then sobbed more. “I’ll tell you…. Ravus… during the ball, tomorrow at 6pm or so. He is going to blow it all up..” he shook his head.
“Where are the bombs?” she questioned.
“They are scattered across the basements of shops, I don’t remember which, but in a pentagon shape, the ballroom being in the center….” He cried softly then. Cassandra looked to Iris and then crossed her arms. “I think that’s about it….” She pulled her gun then and cocked it. “I’m sorry Tyler…”
Tyler looked to her and took in a long breath. “It needs to end” he nodded. Cassandra glanced to Iris and then pulled the trigger. The bullet flew and pierced right between his eyes, he died instantly. “I know we need to test if it works but… he does not deserve a slow death….” She spoke and then put her gun away. “Okay…. Let us report hm? I need to write to the Order, or else they may become worried…” she spoke and then crossed her arms.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 23:00:01 GMT -5
Iris watched carefully, her brow raised, she leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. Though she wasn’t relaxed, she was ready to jump in at any point. Though, as she watched Cassandra question the Lycan, she realized the hunter was rather good at interrogation. She gave a soft nod when Cassandra looked to her and cocked the gun. Iris looked away as the shot rang out in the room. Somehow, the way that Cassandra got him to speak. It reminded her that the Lycans were once human, that somewhere hidden beneath the surface a human soul still resided.
Iris nodded, “My father will be pleased.” She spoke. “One moment.” She stepped forward and unclicked the straps from the dead lycan. She pressed her hand to his chest to keep the body from slumping from the chair as she unclipped the last strap. She then lifted him and brought him to a hinged metal door that was within the stone of the wall. Iris pulled out a long metal drawer from within the door and lay his body on it. She looked to him for a moment before she pushed the drawer back in and closed the door. Iris then clicked a dial to the side, a clicking sounded from behind the metal door. It was a cremation chamber. They burned the lycans after they killed them. It left no trace, and they were certain that the lycan was dead.
“You know, Cassandra…” She spoke and looked to her with soft eyes. “I’d forgotten just how human lycans are beneath the surface.” Her voice was soft. “Most that follow the alphas are just poor souls that have been turned that fear anything else.” She shook her head. “If vampires did not have the law that we have, more humans would be hunted and killed for sport. We would be no different from the lycans.” She watched her. “We aren’t different from them, really.” She spoke as she stepped from the room. “In a way, Lycans and Vampires originated the same….”
Iris walked up the stairs back to the main part of the house she wound through the halls and knocked gently on the door to her father’s study. She could hear speaking from the other side of the door. The words quieted down and the door opened. Iris looked to Peter whom adverted his eyes from her. He stepped to the side to allow Cassandra and Iris into the room. “Father, am I interrupting?” She asked.
Sebastian looked to her with a smile on his lips. “Not at all dear.” He looked to Peter. “We were just finishing, am I correct Peter?”
Peter gave a nod. “Yes father.” He nodded.
“You understand my boy?” Sebastian watched him, his eyes didn’t move from his son.
“Yes father.” Peter bowed his head. He dared not to look in Cassandra’s direction.
Sebastian smiled and then looked to Iris, “So how did it go?” He asked as Peter left the room.
Iris looked after her brother a moment before she looked back to her father. It wasn’t like Peter to be so quiet. He was in trouble for something. “Cassandra is an excellent interrogator.” She looked to Cassandra and offered a smile. “Tomorrow during the ball Ravus plans to detonate the bombs.”
“Hm.” Sebastian leaned forward, his elbows on his desk. “That would certainly get him the most kills.” He spoke and shook his head. “Do you know the location of the bombs?”
“Sort of.” Iris responded. “We know there are 6, and they are in the shape of a pentagon with the ballroom as the center point. The bombs have been placed in basements of shops and homes.”
The king nodded slowly. “We have to either get the detonator from Ravus or disarm the bombs.” He spoke and pondered a moment. “Both could end up rather difficult. If we show him we are looking, he will realize and could detonate early…”
“We have a day.” Iris spoke, “We can figure something out.” She nodded. “We still have the festivities tonight. Maybe we will learn more. With luck by our side.”
“Yes, of course.” Sebastian looked to Cassandra and grinned, “Very well done.” He then looked back to the stack of papers before him. “If you’ll excuse me.”
“Of course father.” Iris bowed her head. She then led Cassandra from the room. Soon enough she’d led Cassandra to her suite where she pulled out a quill and parchment paper. She pulled out the bottle of ink and offered her chair to Cassandra. “How do you usually send your letter?” She questioned. She then walked over to the balcony and looked outside at the sun. It felt warm as it filtered through the glass. She let out a sigh as she once again thought about the lycan’s story.
“I’ve never felt remorse for killing a lycan until now.” She muttered, she then shook her head. “Sympathy for lycans isn’t something that vampires usually feel.” She chuckled softly. “Though…to have his family murdered like that…that’s the life of many humans at the hands of lycans.” She poured a glass of whiskey, “Want some?” She asked and held the bottle forward as she set an empty glass in front of Cassandra. “Lycans are a mutated version of vampires. Did you know that?” She spoke as she took a sip of her whiskey. “A vampire was doing testing on a human that had been turned. He was a bit of a mad scientist. No one knows exactly what caused the lycanthrope gene to develop. It’s like a disease…he created those disgusting monsters from a poor woman that he’d abducted, bitten and turned…and then he did that to her. She broke free. Once she was turned she became the lycans that we know today, she attacked an entire village…killed several turned others…it was a nightmare…at least that is what the books say.” Iris leaned back in her chair. “It’s just…” She shook her head. “They are so filthy…so vile…” Iris turned her eyes away.
A knock came from the door then. Iris raised her brow. The door pushed opened slowly and Warren entered he gave a soft smile. “Iris.” He nodded to her his forest eyes then looked to Cassandra. “Cassandra.” He bowed his head slightly. He then looked back to Iris. “May I speak with you?” He asked, his eyes looking over her.
Iris stood, “Yes of course.” She spoke. “Come on.” She walked over to the balcony. She paused a moment and looked back to Cassandra as Warren walked outside. “Cassandra if anything happens, just yell, I’m right here.” She spoke before she stepped outside. She closed the door. “What is it Warren?” She asked softly.
Warren turned to her, a warm smile upon his lips. “I know that with everything happening this is hard, but, tomorrow is still the day that…”
Iris cupped his cheek and smiled up to him. “Warren.” She spoke and gazed into his eyes. “I know my father chose you.” She then turned away, her hands gripped the balcony. “I don’t know why everything must be pushed forward as if nothing is happening…if we don’t stop Ravus Netherfall will be destroyed…many will die…humans and vampires alike…”
Warren stood where he had, his head bowed slightly. “There is a time for everything. There is a timeline. We must adhere to it. Unfortunately the council does not care what personal problems we are having with the lycans.” He glanced to her. “The announcement is to be made tomorrow at the ball…you know…”
Iris turned, her hips pressed against the railing of the balcony, she crossed her arms and looked to him, a playful grin on her lips. “Warren, my mother has groomed me for this moment for years, I promise I won’t make a fool of you. We still have several more ceremonies to attend to until it is announced that my father has chosen you to wed to me.” She chuckled, “For all I know he could change his mind.” She stepped up to him, dangerously close.
Warren took in a shaken breath as he looked down to her. “Iris…”
Iris grinned and pressed her finger to his lips. “You’re not even supposed to be able to talk to me outside of the ball.” She winked. “The others can’t.” She spoke with a playful manner and chuckled. She then stepped back, “Was that all?” She searched his eyes.
Warren sighed softly. “I just wanted to know what colors you plan on wearing…so that I can make sure to wear something similar…”
Iris grinned, “Hmmm….” She thought a moment. “I should be wearing my red and black dress tomorrow I believe.” She looked to him, “Just wear anything but green, hm?” She chuckled then. She then sighed her eyes looked to him sadly a moment. “Just…understand that this isn’t my decision.” She spoke before she opened the door and slipped back inside.
Warren followed her in. He closed the door and watched her for a long moment. His eyes stayed on her. “See you two tonight.” He spoke softly before he left the room.
Iris sat down and poured herself another glass, she downed it and quickly poured another. “I wish this would affect me like it does you…” She muttered softly, she offered a smile before she looked away. “How’s the letter coming?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 26, 2018 23:38:26 GMT -5
Cassandra followed Iris into the study, where Peter seemed to have been lectured. Cassandra glanced away and then listened to them talk. “Perhaps while you both are pleasing the crowds… I can sneak about and located a bomb. If I can find 1 bomb, then we can triangulate the location of the other 4. I would just need a map…”
The King looked to her and then nodded. “Very well, I’ll have Julian go with you… for protection.” He then waved them off.
As they stepped away – Cassandra couldn’t help but wish Bran was with her… he would have been the best partner, he was the sneaky kind… she felt a twinge of sadness as she thought of his death. She had lost partners before, but something about Bran…
“Oh, I usually send a Raven…” she made her way to the balcony and then pulled her whistle to her lips, it was hidden in a pocket of hers. She blew it, though no noise came from it. The frequency was so high – one that only the bird would be able to hear. “It should be here soon…” she spoke and then made her way to the desk.
She sat down and then dipped the quill into the ink. Just before she began writing – Warren entered, they both slipped away outside, the door closed behind them. Cass looked briefly.. and then back down, writing away. Though occasionally she glanced up – Iris was giggling, a finger upon Warren’s lips. Did she rescue her lover? What was happening here? Curious…
Craven,
To my dismay… I am to report that Bran has been murdered by Ravus and his Lycans. I was not able to save him, and barely escaped with my life… I was able to find out that Ravus has a grand scheme, involving explosives during local festivities. I was able to come across a local group of Lycan hunters, who are helping me thwart his plans. The event will go down tomorrow, to which if you do not receive an update, then you know I have failed…
I will send you part of Bran’s ashes, the other half – I will distribute as requested…
Much love,
~ Cassandra Rane
Cassandra glanced up to Warren, who walked past her. She glanced to Iris, who offered a drink. “Yes, but perhaps not as much as last night…” she chuckled and then rolled the note, and tied it with a small ribbon. She stepped outside, a Raven had landed on the railing. She opened the door and tied the note to its leg. “Off you go now” she pat the Raven’s head, and it lifted majestically and bolted into the air.
“I think it was a good.. a bit of a white lie, but it hasn’t been my first time…” she lifted the whiskey and took a sip. “And… yes, Lycans were once humans. They don’t live along as you, I’d imagine, Tyler was just a human not too long ago… I imagine he is haunted by his memories. Driven by fear, a pack mentality… where as this here is a family… You might have originated in the same place, but there is a big difference….” She took another sip.
“I have met good Lycans before, though rare as it is. They have to stop feeding, which is a hard temptation to give into. Then they have slightly control, however when the moon is full – they lose all control. As you know… but, even then… they are wild, and their emotions are heightened, and uncontrollable. So when they’re pissed, they’re really pissed…” she stood up and then looked to the moon, which was waning…
“I suppose… now I am part of this family, hm?” she chuckled. “So then… do you all operate on some ranking system? Who is Julian… Warren…? You are clearly the Princess, your father the King… though no one uses the official titles…” she sipped again. “The Order does a variation of military rankings, I am a Field Officer, There are a few of us, above me is 5 more steps before leader of the Order, so, if something were to happen… they would certainly investigate and pursue my killer…” she glanced to her and then moved to the couch that was off to the side, by the book case.
“I told your father this, but not you… my story being that… I was an orphan, I never was adopted so I grew up amongst the others, they eventually became my family. In a little town called Talvana, just north of the harbor city – Maingate Harbor… I lived a simple life – until the Lycans came and burned the whole place down, they killed all of the children… I was 10 at the time…” she thought for a second, the memory flashing before her…
“It was raining, I was standing on the stair case that winded upwards, it was a 3 story home, easily 12 bedrooms or so, all shared amongst the 20 or so of us… 1 Lycan came barreling in, the Mistress that tended to us – Saralee, she tried to stop him, but she was killed… I rushed down the stairs and into the kitchen, running away from him – when he pounced another kid in the hallway, I could see him. I was full of rage then, I remember being so angry… I pulled a kitchen knife and came running forward… The Lycan grabbed me and pushed me up against the wall, gripping me by the throat, I saw into his gaping mouth. Blood dripping from his teeth… I took the knife and stabbed him in the throat, and then over and over and over, until I was drenched in his blood… I remember stepped back and all around me was my dead family… 10 or so kids, lying on the ground, their blood pooling around them… A man entered the house then, a Lycan hunter – his name is Robin. He scooped me into his arms, and ran… Ever since… I joined them, they took care of me… I learned how to fight, and at 13 is when I began to scout with them…” she finished her glass.
“It has been a while since I’ve really told anyone that but… I figured you’d want to know my story… Anyone who murders children for sport – deserves a long painful death…” she grit her teeth and then set her glass down.
“Are Vampires turned like Lycans? Do you bite folk? I mean…I’m sorry, I just don’’t know the truth. In our stories… Vampires can turn into bats, and drink blood for fun, but you guys only seem to drink to survive…. And you don’t murder… you can wipe human memories, as if it never happened… I think that is pretty genius…” she thought for a second. “but um… perhaps we should speak more later… What sort of festivities will go on tonight?” she questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 0:25:16 GMT -5
Iris looked to Cassandra as she tied the note to the Raven’s leg before it flew off. She seemed to have a bond with the bird, Iris figured she’d been using it for a very long time as a means of communicating with her leaders. “When I was very young I was in the city playing and I met a Lycan.” Iris spoke up, she looked across the desk at Cassandra. “A young girl, a child like I was.” She smiled. “We played and played, I had no idea what she was, I didn’t have the smells down yet, I was too young to realize.” She chuckled and took a sip. “I remember a man walked up, this man was her father. He had wild eyes when he saw me. The girl tried to introduce me…but it was too late. Her father was already transforming…” She shook her head. “I ran…I ran for what felt like forever, I screamed…” She paused, her pulse raised slightly as she thought of the memory. “He knew I was the daughter of Sebastian…the lycan knew it…he said it to me when he pinned me down…” She shook her head then. “I know that good lycans exist…I can believe in that…but…good lycans do not exist if you are a vampire…most importantly if you are of pure blood like myself.” Iris looked up to Cassandra then, “Sorry..” She shook her head.
A smile then curved up her lips when Cassandra asked if she was a part of the family. “You are, more than you realize. My father has sworn your protection. For anyone that is a blessing in its own.” She listen then as Cassandra questioned about who everyone was. Iris let out a long drawn sigh she took a drink. “Ranking, yes.” She nodded. “You have my mother Lucille, and father Sebastian, they are the king and queen. I am the princess…they choose not to go by that because they would rather be viewed as guides, they are here to help keep order and enforce it, but by no means does my father force anyone to do anything. We are a family and everyone in the coven agrees on such things, those who do not agree are given a few choices, though it is put up to the council to decide what truly happens to them. We operate beneath the council which oversees all of the covens. There are other groups of vampires that are in other cities other continents, but we all answer to the council which is compromised of very ancient vampires, some soon to retire and new vampires to take their place…my father is one of the up and coming council members.”
Iris took in a breath she drank a bit more, “Julian…” She chuckled, “He is actually my best friend…he resides with us, he was found about…” She thought for a long moment. “50 years ago?” She questioned. “He’s not a pure blood, but my father took a liking to him and we brought him into the coven. Since then, well, he’s helped us kill several Lycans and protect the family. He’s a very good guy.” She smiled as she thought about him. “Peter of course is my brother…but…” She paused a moment and looked to Cassandra. “He isn’t…really my brother.” She looked into Cassandra’s eyes a long moment. “He was attacked years ago when we first moved to Netherfall, it was just the three of us, we were laying out a new place for the coven to call home to get away from the lycans. My father saved him…so even though he is called my brother, he is not a pure blood, and he can’t take the throne…I am the only one in the family that can truly take over for my mother and father.”
Iris paused then, thinking of Warren, she ran her fingertip along the edge of the glass and sighed softly. “Warren…” She spoke and took in a deep breath, “Warren is a pure blood…” She nodded to herself. “He is from the coven to the west of here. My father likes him very much.” She then fell quiet. She shook her head and finished her glass, her cheeks were a bit pink. Though the high from the alcohol wouldn’t last long. The only high that truly lasted any time with vampires was that of blood. Iris looked to Cassandra she bit her lip slightly and then shook her head. “He helps with the military efforts, between the two covens. We work together to prevent the Lycans from attacking Netherfall and the close surrounding areas…”
Iris then fell quiet she traced along her glass again. She looked up to Cassandra as she began to speak of her past. Her eyes filled with sadness as she listened to the story. She looked away and shook her head. “The lycans kill for sport…” She whispered. “I’m so sorry that happened to you, Cassandra.”
Iris then smirked at Cassandra’s questions. She chuckled slightly and shook her head. “It’s quite alright.” She stood and placed the bottle back into the cabinet. “Vampires can be turned like Lycans, yes.” She replied. “Though it is highly forbidden.” She paused a moment. “Though, it does happen. It is a bit more complicated than with Lycans. You see, the saliva that a Lycan has is what carries their mutation, it is what causes a bitten human to turn when injected with it. A vampire must drink the human so close to death that it is incredibly dangerous….” She paused and looked to Cassandra. “Until nearly every drop of blood in the body is gone, the trouble with this is when we drink that much blood we start to lose control, just as the Lycans lose control when they murder. Our instinctual….predator side comes through…only a few vampires can turn a human without killing them…after drinking that much blood a few drops of a pure blood must be dropped into the mouth of the human. Then it takes several painful days for the transformation to take place.”
Iris took in a breath thinking. “There are other vampire families in the city of Netherfall that are a part of our coven, they live alongside the humans. One actually works at the clinic in town.” She smirked, “He brings blood for us so that we don’t always have to drink from humans. We distribute it to the coven so that everyone has enough. Though…cold blood doesn’t have that satisfying flavor…” She chuckled and smiled to Cassandra. “Does that answer your question?” She asked and then smirked.
“Tonight there will be more drinking, more dancing…and…” She took in a breath then, “An announcement from my father will happen tonight most likely…about the ball tomorrow. There are other pure blood vampires here this year at the festival.” She ran her fingertip along the edge of the crystal glass it hummed softly. “And so begins the game.” She looked up to Cassandra. “I will be courted by the other pure bloods and when my father chooses to step down, which will be soon…I will be wed to the pure blood that he so chooses.” She stood then and cleared her throat, clearly trying to hide his discontent. “Shall we head to town?” She questioned, her eyes looked over Cassandra. “Are you going to dress to dance?” She smiled then.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 9:27:07 GMT -5
Cassandra crossed her legs and looked to Iris as she told the story of the young Lycan, who she had befriended… “It must have been hard to carry around such a reputation, a Princess… That can lead to a lonely life…Who’s to say we even know why everyone is fighting? We humans fight the Lycans out of reaction, but no one knows exactly why they hunt us. Like you say… for sport? Or is there something else? Our greatest scholars try to figure it out, but I think it is a worthless cause…” she then paused.. allowing Iris to continue her thoughts.
“Ah…. I see, the organization sees over the entirety, but the covens are units of their own. So your father is King, is it over just this city, or across several regions?” she listened then as Iris went on about the family, Julian - but she was short with Warren. There was something more here… she pondered for a moment. They shared that moment on the balcony, but yet Iris did not seem thrilled by him, she would expect more if Warren had a place among her heart…
“Oh… hm… sounds like you’re not in favor of an arranged marriage, though I wouldn’t be either. I have no intentions of marriage, my life could end any second – I’d hate to put someone through such a burden… my focus is this…” she nodded and then continued to listen…
She stood then and shook her head – “No, no dancing for me. I have to find at least one of those bombs, so… this attire should do me fine.. though probably not this cute flower, might give me away in the shadows” she chuckled and plucked the flower pin from her hair and placed it on her dressing table. “Though, it was a nice touch, thank you for it” she grinned then.
“I’ll have to talk to Julian, so we can gather a plan. Your father is keen on him, on his abilities I suppose. Though, he is your best friend – so I’ll do my best to not get him killed…” she chuckled then and nodded. “Then, after the festivities – I’ll come back, maybe catch the end of the celebrations….” And as if on cue – Julian knocked, and stepped inside.
“Ah, Julian – I was just about to search for you…” she walked over to Iris’s desk, where a map of the city lay. “So… this is the center point of the pentagram” she circled the chapel, which would double as the ball room. “He said that bombs were hidden in the basements of local shops… each at the focal point of the star. So, I can’t say which direction this will begin. Though my first guess would be directly north of the chapel. I would think… if Ravus is going to be as detailed to create a pentagram – he would be obvious about it… so…” she drew lines.
“The hard part will be – trying to figure out at what point in this line is the apex… So, we will search the northern line first.. I see… 4 shops along this line…” she circled them. “We start here, and if we find nothing, we start to work clock wise – until we find one. Once we figure it out – we can calculate the position of the other shops. I am certain he will try to be as accurate as possible. Something tells me that this pentagram is a sign, a message of sorts?” she looked to Julian.
“Bran was usually my stealthy lead, I am a bit of a brute, so – stalking in the shadows takes some effort.. “I’d like to get my hands on that crossbow, Iris – can you make some bolts?” she glanced to Julian. “Typically… Bran took the lead, I followed behind and took directions – typically taking out baddies, quick and quiet… So, can you do that? Be my guide in the darkness?” she looked to Julian, waiting for his response…
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 11:18:47 GMT -5
Iris tensed slightly when Cassandra spoke of the arranged marriage. She didn’t respond though, she only gazed into Cassandra’s eyes a moment before she looked away and had continued her story. She plucked the rose pin off of the dresser and opened up a drawer as Julian came into the room. She was quiet as she watched the two. Julian’s eyes would move to her and a small smile would curve up his lips. “I’ll get the bolts ready.” Iris spoke, “Don’t leave her side.” Iris touched Julian’s shoulder then, her eyes locking on his a moment before she left the room.
Julian looked after her a long moment before he looked back to the map. Listening to Cassandra. “Stealth is my forte.” He chuckled. “I…” He looked to her and searched her eyes a moment. “I’m sure Iris has told you quite a bit of information, but I used to be a scout for the military.” He spoke, “I ran covert missions against the Lycans years ago before…” He took in a breath, “Before our king took me in.” He smiled then his mood lightening. “Sebastian is a wonderful king.” He then looked to the map. “Do you mind?” He asked as he looked at it. He flipped it around a bit and adjusted it. “Just a hunch.” He drew in a few lines. “I’ve studied Ravus quite a bit for Sebastian. Warren and I have been studying his pack together….this could be the angle.” He slid the map back toward her and smiled. “I will watch your back and keep you safe, you can count on me. I’ve been Iris’ bodyguard for many years.” He chuckled then.
Iris came back into the room then, the crossbow slung over her shoulder. She had a quiver of bolts that she’d created. The bow looked a bit out of place on her with her fine clothing that she wore. She offered a smile as she set the things down. “Cassandra, could I?” She held her hand out, she held another syringe in her hand. “I need to load the bolts.” She smiled warmly.
Julian tensed slightly. “I’m going to go gather my things.” He gave a smile. “I’ll meet you outside?” He asked and watched for Iris to nod before he moved from the room.
Iris gave a gentle smile to Cassandra. “Not every vampire quite has the control.” She spoke as she gently held Cassandra’s arm. “It takes years, pure bloods have more control, we are more stable than those that are turned. But I believe control is learned over time.” She pierced the needle into Cassandra’s arm and drew up the blood. Her eyes once again changed to the golden color, her breathing increased slightly. She slipped the needle from her skin and pulled the bolts out of the quiver. Loading each with just a few drops of Cassandra’s blood. Iris turned then and looked to Cassandra her eyes slowly changed back to the icy blue color. “Be careful, okay?” She spoke. “You’re in good hands with Julian.”
Iris took in a breath then there was another knock on the door. She looked as Warren came into the room, he looked absolutely stunning in his clothing. He was dressed to the T. He had on black pressed slacks and shined shoes, a velvety blue vest with a black undershirt. “Is this okay?” He asked, he held his hand behind his back.
Iris smiled to him. He’d matched her dress rather well. She chuckled and stepped forward. “You look very handsome.” She looked up to him. “What are you hiding?” She asked, her tone rather playful with him.
Warren smirked and pulled the rose out from behind his back. “Just a gift.” He spoke his eyes searching hers.
It was a beautiful white rose that he had worked into a pin for her hair. Iris smiled. “It’s beautiful.” She spoke softly as she looked to it.
Warren grinned then, “May I?” He asked. He reached up and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and carefully pinned it into her hair. It accented her well, completing her outfit. “Ah, that’s what she was missing hm, Cassandra?” He then took a step back. “I’ll see you soon, Iris.” He stared to her for a long moment before he slipped from the room.
Iris took in a breath as he left and sighed slowly. It was a lot of work to hold up her composure. To play along with the royal games. With Warren living with them in the last few months she’d become rather tired of playing up to him. It’s what Sebastian asked her to do, so she would. Sebastian was very fond of Warren, he came from a strong bloodline and he was very smart with war….he also saw eye to eye with her father’s rules and the structure of their home. “Shall we?” Iris asked as she packed up the quivers. “Oh…” She paused a moment, her brows tucked together. She looked to Cassandra, a bit of a worried look in her eyes. “You must stay with Julian.” She spoke, “Do not allow yourself to get separated from him, especially not tonight.”
Iris held the crossbow forward. “Tonight once my father announces to the other pure bloods that I am open for courtship…celebration will commence….I don’t want a vampire to get ahold of you.” She shook her head. “If I have to I will take you from the crowd myself.” She searched Cassandra’s eyes. “A lot of vampires outside of the coven will be here tonight and tomorrow for the ball. Because of the announcement…like I’ve said before, others don’t really agree with some of our family rules…and if anyone finds out what you are…” Iris fell quiet. “I…” She drew her brows together. “Just be safe, okay?” She turned then and led Cassandra through the home. The sun was nearly set by this point. The festivities would begin soon.
Julian was standing next to her car a smile on his lips. He had a crossbow of his own, he wasn’t dressed to dance tonight. He was dressed more comfortably, so that he could be quiet and aid Cassandra to his best abilities. “What a gorgeous flower.” He smirked.
Iris looked to him and chuckled. “Oh? Would you like one? I could talk to the person who gave it to me.” She grinned as she climbed into the car.
Julian held the door open for Cassandra, a chuckle escaping over his lips. “Oh I’m not sure it would bring out the color of my eyes quite like yours.” He watched her with his hazel eyes a moment before he climbed into the back of the car.
Iris chuckled then and rolled her eyes. “Ah but of course, red is more your color, Julian.”
Julian grinned and relaxed in the seat. “Perhapse.” He spoke. “Oh.” He leaned forward and held a small velvet bag to Cassandra. “These are spikes.” He spoke. “Iris always carries a few in her dress.” He pulled one out, it was a silver spike with rubber coated over the end that would be held by the attacker. “It’s what she used to kill the Lycan last night.” He leaned back. “If for some reason you get in a pinch, this is a quick an easy way to kill a Lycan.”
Iris glanced to the pouch Julian had given Cassandra. “But she won’t have to use it. Because if a Lycan gets close to her you’ll kill it.” She spoke her eyes looking to him in the mirror. “He’s a good shot.” She noted. He had his own cross bow and quiver that sat in the backseat with him. “I’d trust him to shoot an apple off of my head.” She grinned to him. The rest of the ride into town was full of banter back and forth between the two. Eventually Iris parked the car she looked to Cassandra and then to Julian as they stood outside of the vehicle. She’d parked to the north, to give them easy access to their start point. “Be careful.” She spoke and looked to them. “Please.”
Julian pulled her into a gentle hug. “Don’t worry.” He pulled back and smiled. “Go have fun, I’ll bring her back soon enough, we will catch the last dance, hm?”
Iris gave a gentle smile to him before she turned and walked off into the night. Julian’s eyes followed her a moment before he looked to Cassandra. “Alright.” He pulled the folded-up map. “Let’s try this shop first.” He pulled a ring of keys out. “It pays to have the king on your side, hm?” He chuckled. “We won’t have to pick locks at least, though, it might take a few keys to get in.”
**
Iris walked through the dark streets. She glanced over her shoulder a few times, listening. Soon enough she walked into the crowds of the festival. She could hear the music get quiet as her father took to the balcony that she stood on last night. She looked up to him as she walked forward. A cheer erupted from the crowd as they laid eyes on her father. The joy she could see on the faces of the other vampires made her smile. Everyone thought him to be dead. Her father’s eyes caught her and he motioned her up onto the balcony. She made her way through the crowd, several faces she looked to she didn’t recognize. Though, a pure blood going up for courtship didn’t happen often. It was a big event. Especially her family. She stood up on the balcony next to her father.
“Ah my dearest daughter.” Sebastian wrapped his arm around her. Lucille stood to his other side, a smile on her lips. “The time has come that I will soon step down and allow my daughter to rise.” He spoke. “As I am sure all of you are aware I will be choosing her mate, her companion, the new king.” A cheer erupted. Sebastian raised his hand to silence them. “Tomorrow’s ball will mark the first of several events that I will use to choose whom she will be wed to. Good luck.” He spoke and stepped back. He turned to Iris and smiled. “How is Cassandra and Julian? Are they looking for the bombs?” He asked.
Iris nodded to him. “Yes, I left them on the north side of town.” She replied as she glanced to the crowd. “Father I don’t know most of them…” She spoke softly.
Sebastian offered a warm smile. “Go and meet them, Iris. Though, this is why we have Sebastian. He will make a good king for you. I’ve spent years searching, I know you’re not fond of the idea but you do not have a choice, this is the way it is.”
Iris nodded, “Of course father.” She spoke and glanced away to the crowd again. “I know that you love mother, and that you were chosen for her. I just hope…”
“Don’t worry.” Sebastian cupped her cheek. “I won’t let anything bad come of you.” He kissed her forehead. “Go on, dance. Keep an eye out for Ravus and his mutts.”
Iris nodded as she stepped from the balcony. She walked down the stairs and was immediately intercepted by Warren. He smiled to her and pulled her into the crowd. “Shall we?” He asked and they began to dance. Iris danced well with him, their movements were fluid as he twirled her about. Soon enough she was smiling and laughing, enjoying herself. Iris was bounced around between several vampires, one dance after the next until she finally ended in Warren's arms once again. The music slowed and he pulled her in close, they both laughed having had plenty of alcohol this evening to give them a bit of a high. Though as he pulled her to his chest she glanced around, wondering how long Cassandra and Julian would be. She lifted a glass of wine to her lips that Warren offered her as she glanced over the crowd.
“Have you made your decision?” He asked a playful grin on his lips.
“Not yet.” Iris responded and looked to him and then finished off the glass.
“Julian doesn’t joke when he says you’re picky.” He chuckled. “Another dance?” He asked and offered her his hand.
“Of course.” Iris responded as she joined him again. They were nearing the end of the night. Worry began to set in as Iris looked about the crowd through her twirls.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 11:51:08 GMT -5
Cassandra looked to Julius as he spoke of his previous life. “She has said a bit, yes, but not this half about covert missions and such. I look forward to seeing you pair up with me” she smiled then and then leaned over the map as he made additional notes. “Alright, you are most experienced with him…” she nodded and then glanced to Iris.
“Right… see you shortly Julian” Cassandra then stepped forward and offered her arm. Iris was gentle with the syringe, and soon enough she had enough blood for the tips. She pressed her finger to the tiny poke, and then moved to the crossbow. She cocked it with the lever, and then held it up. “This is pretty balanced, well crafted. A lot tend to dip forward…” she then slung it onto her back, a leather strap attached to the end. She took the quiver of bolts and attached it to her waist. “Thank you”
Cassandra stepped to the mirror and then fixed her hair – she pulled it back in tight red bun. She thought for a second… and then took her sword and crossbow off. She stepped to the closet and dug – until she found a black cape, with a large hood. She pulled it on and clasped it at her neck, and pulled the hood up. “There we go…” she chuckled. “My red hair can often give me away In a dark room…” she then strapped her sword onto her back, the cross bow hanging as well.
She turned then and watched as Warren entered, looking spiffy as ever. While these two both looked charming, Cassandra looked as if she were to murder a hundred Lycans, which she would love to do… She glanced away as he offered a flower – it was too mushy for her… she stepped to the bookcase and idly looked about them, trying to give them some space.
Soon after they made their way to the car, and she climbed inside. She sat in the back seat, a little forward - so her weapons weren’t poking her. She listened to them banter - until she finally interjected. She chuckled as she spoke – “You know, I do appreciate your protection, I really do. But I’ve been hunting Lycans for a while, I’d say I’m pretty skilled… The only reason the Bran situation fell as it did – is because I was abducted” she chuckled then. “But no worries, I’ll take care of Julian too, it’s a team effort.” She laughed and then climbed from the car.
“Come on… let’s go” she spoke and followed Julian as they made their way through the city. They came upon the first store, it was a general goods trading store. Julian fumbled with the keys, until finally the door opened… Cassandra closed it behind them, and then crept through the dark store.
They went into the back storage, where there was a wooden floorboard. Cassandra stepped over and lifted the gate upward, which lead down to a set of stairs. “Wait – I hear something” she whispered. She held her hand up and then nodded. Julian would easily be able to hear and smell better.
“Lycans” he whispered.
“Surely a trap… I bet they are waiting for us, surely a transmitter in their grasp to alert.” She whispered and then looked to Julian. “How many? We’ll have to take them out fast, who knows which one of them has it…”
“4… 2 Playing cards.. 1..smells like beer, another… I’m not sure…” he glanced back to her.
“We have to split them up…” she spoke and glanced down the stairs. There was a small hallway, that lead to a bathroom. “Alright… Let’s split them up…. Stay here….” She whispered and then slowly moved forward. She got to the end of the stairs, and stood at the doorway, she could just barely see the 2 playing cards.
“Aye… I gotta take a piss…” The one drinking beer set down his ale and then slowly moved to the doorway. Cassandra quickly slipped backwards. The drunk Lycan made his way and turned right, completely missing her. Cass glanced to Julian and held her finger up – 1 second… She quickly shuffled behind the Lycan and followed him quietly to the bathroom. He didn’t even close the door – just unzipped and began his business.
Cassandra snuck behind him and suddenly reached forward – she cupped his mouth and stabbed him with one of the bolts. The blood capsule burst and entered his blood stream – in seconds he was dead. Complete silence… She slowly lowered him to the ground, and then turned around.
Julian peaked around the corner – she held her finger up. – 5 seconds. She pulled her crossbow up and loaded it with a bolt. She then pointed.
“What’s taking ya, did you fall in? Robert, go check” one of the card players spoke to the idle Lycan. Robert grumbled and then headed to the bathroom. Cassandra pointed, for Julian to take out the Lycan headed their way… Once it was done – she came back to the stairs.
“Just two…” she pulled her cross bow up. “I’ll take the left… you take the right?” she questioned. “1..2…3…” She pulled the trigger. Her bolt flew forward and pierced the left Lycan, directly in the heart. He gripped the bolt, but before he could do anything – his entire body was covered in black lines, like poison, and he was dead. The one of the right died as well, from Julian’s bolt…
Cassandra stepped forward and walked over. Sitting on the card table was a square box – a red button in the middle. “I was right… a Transmitter. They’re waiting for us to look… this place – theres no bombs here. It’s a bluff house…” she then turned to Julian. “I guess we check the next place, hm?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 12:15:41 GMT -5
Julian followed Cassandra closely. He grit his teeth as she slipped away. He quickly tailed her toward the bathroom and looked to the dead Lycan. He slipped into the shadows and stabbed a spike into the Lycan that came to check on the dead one. He gripped over his mouth tightly, holding in the guttural sounds of pain as the Lycan died. Julian then nodded and moved forward he shot at the exact moment that Cassandra released her bolt. He looked to the box with the red button. “Hm…” He narrowed his brows. “What if…” He grew quiet then. He held his finger to his lips. “There’s more…upstairs…this was a trap.” He looked to her, his eyes melted to the golden color. Julian nodded, “This way.” He spoke and rushed down a hallway as several Lycans came down the stairs. They were in the backroom now.
“There’s 5….” He whispered to her. He shut his eyes, his nose wrinkled slightly. “They aren’t incredibly strong…” He took in a slow breath.
“God damnit! We missed them!” A voice echoed through the basement. “Those fuckers killed Robert!”
Julian bit his lip slightly, he could sense the rage. He held up his finger, 1. He leaned out the door with his crossbow and released the bolt. The tips of his bolts were loaded with silver dust. It rushed into the bloodstream, causing a quick kill of any Lycan it came into contact with.
“They’re still here!” A Lycan snarled. The sounds of their transformation cracked through the hallways.
Julian grit his teeth, “We’ve 4 more.” He spoke. “Try to move swiftly.” He slipped into the hallway and fired off a shot. A Lycan leaped into the air and landed on him. It’s jaws snapped at his throat. Julian snarled as he stabbed a spike into the beast and shoved it off of his body. He stood then and rushed forward. One of the Lycan’s slashed into his leg as he stabbed into it. Julian growled as he shoved it to the ground. He pulled a dagger and stabbed into the creature. Julian glanced to Cassandra. “Are you okay?” He asked, his eyes looking over her. “We have to move.” He nodded. “There are going to be more.” He pulled a transmitter from one of them, it beeped and glowed red. “Come on.” He rushed from the store. Julian turned and scooped Cassandra up into his arms. He moved with unbelievable speed then and suddenly they were inside of another store. He set her down. His eyes stared into hers a moment the golden color remained as he gripped his leg where it had a gash on the surface. “What if this is all a hoax? What if the bombs are a distraction?” He asked, “What if Ravus is planning something else?” A look of worry came over his eyes. “We haven’t heard anything of these bombs until now…” He muttered.
**
Iris was dipped back she smiled as Warren pulled her up close. She glanced around again. “Do you smell any Lycans?” She asked softly.
Warren closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, he then nodded. “Yes…I do.” He looked around to the others whom were dancing. The last song was beginning to play. Vampires were searching for a human to drink from.
“Where’s your pet?” Peter asked as he came to her side. “She better be somewhere safe.” He chuckled and looked to his sister.
Iris shot him a glare. “She’s with Julian.” She replied angrily. She looked up to Warren. “Something isn’t right…they should be back…”
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 12:37:49 GMT -5
Cassandra grit her teeth as he spoke of more. She pulled her sword and heard them shouting from above. They came storming down the stairs – Cassandra slipped to the side, one entered the main room and growled. “I can smell you” he spoke and then turned. Cassandra sliced her blade – it cut into his chest, the oil seeping into him swiftly. He collapsed on the ground and writhed, before dying.
She dodged back as one came flying forward – in his lycan form. She sliced forward but he reached forward and gripped his blade. The Lycan growled and then laughed loudly. Though the blade had cut into his hand and he began to scream as his hand began to burn. He stumbled back – Cassandra turned and pressed her leg to the wall and pushed off, she leaped into the air and landed, the sword piercing through his chest as she pushed the huge beast over.
She drew the blade, a knee pressed against his hairy chest, and then swung her arm – her blade cutting into another Lycan who barreled down the hallway. She stood then, and looked to Julian – who rushed over to her. She gasped when he lifted her, but they traveled fast, like a whisp In the air – they bolted to the next room.
She stood and took in a sudden breath. “Wow..” she whispered and glanced to him. “You okay?” she questioned. She reached over and cupped his cheek. “Open up” she spoke. Julian glanced to her with a confused look. Cass pressed her thumb against his fang, poking a hole, and then she squeezed her thumb, allowing a few drops to fall onto his tongue…
“You’ll be good as new, just… focus” she gripped his shoulders. She turned and glanced down the hallway. She could hear a ticking… She slipped from him and went to the door, that had stairs going down. “It makes sense… the bomb is to distract the citizens, to cause chaos, so they can rush in and murder everyone off guard. As far as Ravus knows – he has no idea that we are on his tail.. come on” she waved him forward.
They bounded down the stairs to the basement, where she suddenly skid to a stop. “Trip wire” she spoke and listened to the ticking.
There was a ding.
Cass grit her teeth and jumped over the wire and opened the door. The stove timer was going off – she glanced around.. no bombs. She opened the door of the oven and there was a pan of cookies, that were shaped in the word “Got you”.
She grit her teeth and looked to Julian. “Or something… it’s not as obvious, we’re looking in the basements, what if they’re not in the basements? He is teasing us… but he wouldn’t go through this effort if there wasn’t actual bombs. It’s just the placement…” she rushed back up the stairs, careful to avoid the trip wire…
“We need a lead…” she looked to Julian. She heard something – the door opening. She shifted back into the shadows, hiding in a hallway. Two Lycans walked into the room, laughing as they were chattering.
“Robert’s gang got murdered, word is spreading fast. Sounds like the Vampries are onto us..” One said to the other, he lit a cigar and took a puff. “Should we do something?”
The other vampire pulled out a flask and took a swig. “Nahh…. I’ll save my energy for the festivities tomorrow…” he chuckled and took another.
“Yeah… Always good to have multiple plans… no doubt they got ahold of Tyler” he laughed then. “Probably gave us up faster than a slut giving out herpes” he took another puff and then let out a long sigh of a breath.
“Aye, so when we expectin’ the calvary?” the one with the flask spoke.
Cassandra glanced to Julian.. Calvary.. no bombs then….
“In the mornin’, I’m supposta check em in. Good shit too, old war crap. Funny how money sways even the greatest partners, King Levi eh? Some shit king he is, not our problem though, we got the goods. Ravus says – Flaming balls of doom! Hahaha!” he laughed and then took another puff. “it’ll be fun to watch, maybe I can pull the lever once” he grinned.
Cass looked to Julian and held her hand up… 3…2..1.. –
Cassandra leaped forward and sliced her blade – the head of the Lycan came clean off and bounced across the floor, the cigar still sitting in his lips – burning…
“Sounds like we’ve been duped… we should head back. King Levi… Lycan’s don’t have Kings, is this one of your guys?” she questioned…
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 13:02:42 GMT -5
Julian’s eyes widened as Cassandra sliced her finger on his fang. His eyes darkened slightly. He took in quick breaths. He closed his eyes as he fought to keep in control. He hadn’t fed in nearly two days. His body was craving blood. Julian regained his composure and followed her, his eyes looking about, he was listening.
He narrowed his brows as he looked to the cookies in the oven. “He’s toying with us…” He growled. He followed Cassandra as they moved up the stairs and spied on the Lycans. His brows raised at the mention of King Levi. He rushed forward and slammed the Lycan against the wall. He held him there staring into his eyes a long moment before he pulled a bolt from his quiver and stabbed it into him. “No, Lycan’s don’t have kings…” He growled. “King Levi is an old king, to the south. He is wrapped up in the old ways, he doesn’t want to follow the law…he’d rather behave like the Lycans. Be a predator…not live among the humans.” He was visibly angry. “We will report this to our king, this changes everything…” He spoke his voice softened slightly. “Um…” He looked to her. “Thanks, for the blood.” He offered a smile then as he looked to his completely healed leg.
Julian then stepped over to her. “Hang on.” He scooped her up and zoomed through the streets. The world around them was a blur as he sprinted. He suddenly stopped in an alley the music could be heard. He set her down and then smiled. “Humans can be slow sometimes.” He winked to her and stepped forward toward the others that danced. The crowd had thinned out quite a bit at that point. Julian was brushed to the side. He grit his teeth as he looked over a vampire had taken a liking to Cassandra.
“Well hello.” A tall male vampire spoke, a smile on his lips. He snaked his arm around her and grinned. “Let’s have a dance, shall we?” He pulled her forward.
Iris saw Julian from across the crowd. She searched through the crowd and her eyes fell on Cassandra. She was in front of them in the blink of an eye. Her arm moved between the two. “I’ll be having this one.” She looked up to the male vampire, her eyes golden. “I’ve been spying on her all night after all.”
The vampire narrowed his brows slightly, “Of course princess.” He stepped back and sulked into the crowd.
Iris turned to Cassandra, her eyes filled with worry. She could smell the lycan blood on her, she looked to the black cloak it was stained in blood. “Come.” She took Cassandra’s hand and towed her through the city. Julian followed suit. “Are you okay?” She asked worried. “What happened?”
Julian caught up. “It’s a trap. The whole thing is a trap.” He spoke he glanced around. “I don’t know what Ravus is getting at but something isn’t right. They’ve acquired weaponry from King Levi.”
Iris looked to him with wide eyes, she faltered in her steps slightly. “King Levi…” She spoke her voice low. She grit her teeth. “What is he planning?” She questioned. “The council will not tolerate this. Working with Lycans?” She questioned and shook her head. Iris paused, she spun around just as a Lycan leaped from the shadows. “Julian!” She cried as she rushed forward.
Julian turned and drew his crossbow just as the Lycan slammed into him. He lay on the ground motionless as the Lycan morphed into its human form. “Ahhhh princess.” The Lycan grinned, “You’re just as beautiful as they say.” He hummed. He quickly tossed something forward.
Iris moved to the side, though, her movement wasn’t quick enough. A whimper escaped Iris’ lips. He’d thrown a small coated star of silver. It pierced into her side. Iris’ eyes melted to the golden color, her fangs became visible. She froze. The Lycan wore thick leather gloves as he turned and looked to Cassandra. “And what is so interesting about you that the Remington family has decided to tow you around my sweet?” He stepped forward, his eyes wild. He was the alpha above Remus. “I’ve never seen this family welcome humans so easily…what’s so special about you?” He tilted his head. He glanced to Iris and smirked. He cupped her cheek. “Such a good statue.” He chuckled and then kicked Julian. There wasn’t a response from either of them.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 27, 2018 13:17:47 GMT -5
Cassandra stepped back slightly as the vampire came to her – wanting to dance. “excuse me?” she questioned. It was then that Iris came to her rescue… “Thank god…” she whispered and then turned as they began to walk. She listened to Julian and Iris exchange words… King Levi, it seemed this political escapade seem to grow deeper.
Cassandra jumped back when Julian was suddenly slammed down, and then Iris was instantly frozen as well. She grit her teeth and looked to the human, who was once a very large bulky Lycan. Cassandra squeezed her brows together and stared to him. “I’ll tell you why” she spoke and pulled her sword. “Because I’m a pretty esteemed Lycan hunter… and you don’t fuck with me” she spoke and lunged forward.
The Lycan dodged to the side and chuckled. “I’m not your ordinary Lycan, my pretty one…” he then held his arms out and transformed. He was larger than the others, his muscles bulging. He looked to her and roared directly at her face. Cassandra gripped the blade – the Lycan then landed on all four and began to run directly at her. Cassandra readied her blade – and swung forward.
The Lycan dodged to the side and swiped at Cass, sending her flying against the side of a building. She groaned and stood – the attack wasn’t very strong against her protective leather, he barely cut into her. She lunged forward, but just before she were to strike – she rolled on the ground and bounced up. With the momentum she built up – she leaped into the air and sliced into the back of the Lycan. He cried out – but the oil on her sword was worn, just a standard blade attack…
He turned and heaved, and let out another roar. He ran forward and clawed towards her… Cassandra shifted, he barely missed – but clawed onto her Cape. He yanked her and sent her flying once more. Cassandra rolled and bounced against the ground, until she came to a stop. The Lycan then began to laugh…
Cassandra glanced over… She reached over swiftly and yanked the silver star from Iris’s side. With that motion - she pulled her revolver and fired 4 shots. Only 1 hit him – right in the arm. He cried out and glanced to his arm, which was growing black by the second. He glanced to Cassandra and then gripped his arm. With incredible strength – he ripped his own arm from his shoulder socket, the flesh and bone tore and ripped, and he threw his own arm to the ground. Then he turned and dashed away with incredible speed…
Cassandra moved over to Julian and removed the star from him as well, returning him to life. She turned and glanced to the giant Lycan arm, it was completely black now… he just barely saved himself from her blood attacking the rest of his body. The skin began to rot away, until it melted away his bone, and it was just a pile of flesh and dust…
“Who the fuck was that?” she questioned and then helped Julian up. She gave him another drop of blood, her thumb pressing against his fang. She then stepped over to Iris… she squeezed the blood to gather on her finger tip, and then pressed it against her lips.
“We need to go… Ravus will certainly know now…” she gave a long sigh… she wasn’t used to failing.. but everyone was alive… so that was a plus.
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