Just a drop...

Iris rushed forward with Warren. She grinned as they took down Lycans with speed. The group moved lightning fast taking them down one by one. Iris kicked one in the chest, her heel holding him down as she stared into his eyes, her own eyes were golden. “Who gave you these weapons you’re so kindly transporting?” She asked and tilted her head. “What’s the occasion?” The Lycan writhed beneath her snarling. “Now now, where are you manners?” She asked as she leaned down and lifted him up, she slammed him against the base of an oak tree. “You look like a smart boy, where’s the manifest? You’re to deliver these to Arden, right?” She raised a brow.

The Lycan breathed heavily, he looked at the other vampires that stared to him. He gave a slow nod.

“Good boy.” Iris then slit his throat. She pulled a piece of paper from his pocket and unrolled it. “This is it.” She looked to Warren, “Signed by Levi himself.” She noted the signature at the bottom. It was unmistakable.

Warren drew his brows together as he looked to the catapult that they stood in front of. “Well this just makes everything all the more complicated doesn’t it?” He questioned.

Iris returned a nod, “Yes, at least we know, and we have proof, the Council will put a stop to him, there is no doubt.”

“But what has he given to other regions? What is he aiming to gain from this?” Warren pondered and then shook his head.

“Warren, heads up.” One of the vampires spoke as Lycans swarmed in on them.

“I thought that was a tad bit easy.” Iris raised a brow. She pulled her pistol then. The shots rang out echoing across the mountain valley. One, right between the eyes. She spun, 2 in the chest of a Lycan. Iris leaped forward, 3 a shoulder shot on one and 4 a shot to the sternum of another. 5, through the eye socket of a Lycan that leaped through the air. Only 1 bullet left loaded in the chamber. Iris was slammed down then. Ravus looked into her eyes, his eyes wild. Though Iris didn’t allow him the glory of any fear in her eyes. She slammed the butt of her pistol against the side of his head. They tossed and turned on the ground. More Lycans swarmed the area keeping the other three busy.

Iris’ pistol was knocked from her grip as Ravus pinned her again. “You don’t even know what we’re planning.” He snarled as he held her down. “You’re ruining it, Arden is going to be livid!” He snapped.

Iris chuckled as she looked up to him. “Good, he needs to crawl back into the hole he came from!” She spat in his face before she kneed him in the groin. He rolled from her groaning in pain. Iris rushed forward grabbing her pistol from the ground. She chased after him as he morphed. They sprinted through the forest quickly. She raised her pistol though she couldn’t get a clear shot with the trees.

“Iris!!!”

Iris could hear the voice echo off of the trees. It was Warren. She skidded to a stop, watching as Ravus retreated into the forest. She spun around and sprinted back quickly. She zig zagged through the trees swiftly until she came to the clearing with the catapult. She skidded to a stop. Lycans surrounded the three vampires, one of the vampires lay on the ground with a silver dagger sticking from her leg. “Hey ugly!” She called to the Lycan that stood over Warren. He had cuts across his chest. Though, nothing fatal. He was trying to protect the female vampire that had been stabbed.

The lycan snarled as it turned around, it lunged forward. Iris jumped up, she kicked off of his chest and twisted as she lined up the shot, she pulled the trigger. Iris landed and took in a quick breath. She pulled her dagger and rushed forward toward the other lycan that remained. She was slammed to the side harshly, she could hear the sound of her ribs cracking against the base of the catapult. Iris groaned. She’d missed one. She brought her dagger into the back of the Lycan as it chomped forward, it’s teeth missed her shoulder by a hair. She ducked beneath it and kicked it off of her dagger. She stumbled slightly. “Warren!!” She cried as she rushed forward. She slipped to the ground next to him. “You’re hurt.” She looked to him with worried eyes. She looked over the cuts and gashes.

“I’m okay, Iris.” He held the dagger that had been stabbed into the female vampire. She was fast asleep. “They lined it with Valerian.” He shook his head. “I hate Arden’s pack.”

The other vampire came up after lobbing off the last few heads. He glanced around and shook his head. “Fucking mutts.” He muttered. He had a gash on his leg. They had been swarmed by Lycans. Going after the catapult alone hadn’t been the brightest idea, but it was Warren’s idea.

“Iris!!” Julian called from the ridge. He glanced to Cassandra with worried eyes. He ran forward and wrapped his arms around her.

Iris let out a whimper. “Not…so tight…” She breathed. She held her side. “I’m okay.” She offered a gentle smile. “I have.” She searched in her pocket. She drew her brows together. She opened her pouch then. “That fucker…” She muttered. “I had a run in with Ravus…I had the manifest…I had proof that it was Levi, Warren saw it.”

“That is proof enough.” Sebastian spoke as his team stepped forward. “Did you see it too?” He asked the female and male vampire that were with them, they both nodded. “We shall bring this to the council tomorrow morning then.”

Iris took in a breath, she looked to Cassandra for a moment as they all began to head back toward the mansion. She was ushered forward by her father and Warren, leading the coven back. Sebastian wrapped his arm around his daughter and kissed the top of her head.

Julian walked next to Cassandra, his eyes watched Warren and the king. He glanced to her. “You know…” He smirked then, “I’ve figured out why Iris is so curiously interested in you.” He had a playful grin on his lips.

Iris glanced over her shoulder then, she could hear him. She shot him a look before she looked back ahead.

Julian grinned, “And that, just solidifies my thought.” He snickered, he looked to Cassandra, “Remind me when Iris is busy to tell you.” He winked.

Soon enough they were back at the mansion. Sebastian stood in front of the group. He had a smile on his lips. “Very good hunting today.” He looked to all of them. He had his arm wrapped around Lucille. Iris stood with them she had her hand on her side, her eyes met Cassandra’s for a moment before she looked to her father. “We’ve collected well over 40 Lycan heads to deliver. Warren and Berlin will be delivering them here shortly, they are already on the way.”

Lucille smiled, “Oh, and the winner of today’s event.” She paused for dramatic effects. She looked to the vampires whom perked up slightly. “Cassandra’s team, very well done, you pulled in 16 heads, a close second was Warren’s team with 15.” The vampires cheered happily. “Tonight, we celebrate in peace.”

Everyone disbursed then. Iris found her way to Julian and Cassandra. She offered a smile. “I want to go get ready for the ball, then we should eat a snack, I won’t be able to wait too terribly long to eat, but the food will be fantastic at the ball tonight, you want to go hungry.” She chuckled.

“I should get cleaned up too.” Julian reached forward then and wiped a drop of blood from Iris’ cheek. “You took down quite a few huh?” He asked.

Iris grinned to him. “Try most of them.” She looked to Cassandra. “If only us three would have been on a team, the others wouldn’t have even been close.” She winked as she grabbed Cassandra’s arm and tugged her off toward her room. She was quiet as they roamed through the halls. She clicked her door closed and let out a slow breath. “Don’t um…pay any attention to Julian, Cassandra.” She spoke and then let out a soft laugh, she winced slightly. “I think one of those mutts broke a few of my ribs.” She spoke and narrowed her brows. She held her hand on her side. “I’ll help you get ready, hm?” She asked and offered a gentle smile.

Iris looked to Cassandra as she mentioned the companion. She’d looked away her lips parted slightly as if she was thinking of speaking, then her eyes caught Cassandra’s and she gazed at her a long moment. “Maybe another time?” She spoke, her voice stifled slightly. This was a sore subject for her. Iris watched as Cassandra stepped and lifted her dress up, she loosened slightly and gave a gentle smile. “I bet you do, growing up in the Order.” Her smile was small though it was warm. “You seem more like an adventurer out to save the world from a fairy tale.” She chuckled then, relaxing. “If I were to write a book, I would write you into it.” She moved to her closet and began looking through it, thinking of what she should wear.

When Cassandra came out she stepped over. “This color really suites you well.” She spoke, her eyes moved over the deep scars on Cassandra’s back. Her fingertip grazed over one of the scars before she began to cinch up the dress. “Deep breath.” She spoke before she pulled it tight. The breath at the end was to ensure she could still breathe when the corset tightened down. Iris smiled as Cassandra turned around. Iris moved to the closet to gather tights for Cassandra to wear, she paused as she came back and looked to the scar on her arm. “Oh…” She made the sound without meaning to. She wasn’t used to seeing scars. She didn’t have a mark on her body. The healing process that vampires went through left no scaring at all, though Lycans would scar. “I have something.” She smiled then and opened up her dresser. She searched through it a moment before she came back with black half sleeves. “Here.” She carefully slid them up each side and tied beautiful bows with the black ribbon on each one.

“I’m not sure what I want to wear…it’s a big deal…but…” She stared into her closet. She shifted her weight a few times before she finally reached forward. “Here, this should do.” She grabbed a dress. “Just a moment.” She slipped away. She tossed her shirt up over the top of the dressing screen. The sound of her gun being set on the table clattered slightly, then her dagger. After a few minutes she came out, her hands behind her back. She’d worn corsets for so long she was well versed in cinching her own corset down. Her dress was gorgeous, it was a silky red material with a black lace that lined up the corset and beautiful metal buttons that went up the front of the corset. She had a lovely black choker necklace in a ribbon like material that she was fastening down around her neck as she looked in the mirror. Iris then looked in the mirror and began brushing through her hair. She moved it about and pinned it in places before she fixed a black lacy rose into her hair. She brushed on eye shadow and put on red lipstick before she looked to Cassandra as she pulled on black silky gloves. “What do you think?” She asked. “Do I look enough like a princess?” She then chuckled. She winced slightly then, the laughter in combination with the corset sent pain through her ribs. “Oh maybe no laughing with this on…” She took in a breath. “For a bit at least.” She then stepped forward. “Can I?” She asked as she motioned for Cassandra to sit down.

Iris moved about as she styled her hair, causing beautiful waves to form in it. She worked her bangs to the side and then she smiled and clipped the rose pendant into Cassandra’s hair. “It adds a nice touch.” She winked. She took a step back and smiled. “You look beautiful, look.” She glanced to the mirror.

A knock came from the door. Julian stepped in slowly. “Oh…wow…” His jaw was loose as he looked to them. “Oh…um…”

Iris chuckled, her hand on her side. “Are you cooking?” She asked, her brow raised playfully.

Julian rolled his eyes. “Of course, that’s why I am here, just to cook for you princess.” He bowed deeply. “Actually, your father wishes to speak with you.”

Iris took in a slow breath, “Alright.” She looked to Cassandra a moment, a smile on her lips. “I’ll meet you two downstairs then?” She asked. She walked up to Julian, her eyes watching him closely. She pat her hand against his chest as she walked passed him. “Don’t wait on me, I’m not sure how long father will want to talk, it is the night of the ball.” She huffed slightly.

Julian grinned, “Don’t worry princess.” He winked. He then looked to Cassandra. “Hungry?” He asked as he stepped from the room with her in tow. “You look splendid in that dress.” He noted. He led her into the kitchen and began cooking chicken, searing it in the pan with mushrooms and bacon. “So.” He said after a long moment of silence. “Want to know ?” He looked to her, his eyes playful. “I can see that you’re curious. I could see it earlier.” He flipped the chicken by tossing the pan around. It sizzled happily. He came to the bar and leaned against it, looking into Cassandra’s eyes. “You look very much like Iris’ first love.” He spoke, his voice quiet. He waited a moment for that to sink it. “Yes, she was a human. That was the trouble…” He then turned and stirred the chicken around. “Iris hasn’t been the same since….well until I brought you home…her curiosity with you is magnificent.” He glanced to Cassandra. “The Lycans killed Elise…Iris was in town with her and they were attacked…that was…” He thought for a long moment. “Wow time goes so quickly. “Nearly 150 years ago.” He looked to Cassandra with soft eyes. “I’m telling you this because Iris is fascinated with you…she’ll never tell you about Elise…no matter if you pry…”

Julian turned and tossed the chicken with spinach and mushrooms onto a plate. It had a creamy cheese sauce that it was cooked in that he’d whipped up from scratch. “There you are.” He sat across from her with his own plate, a third plate was made up for Iris it sat in front of an empty chair. “I’m sorry if that is too much information.” He spoke and looked down to his plate. “I just, I felt you should know.” He then took a bite of his food.

“Father?” Iris asked as she pushed open the door to her father’s study.

Sebastian looked up from his desk. He stood, he was wearing a fancy black suit with a velvety black vest. He walked over to her and hugged her gently. He narrowed his brows as he saw her wince. “You’re injured…” He spoke and raised his brow. “Why didn’t you say something?”

Iris shook her head. “It’s nothing father, give me an hour or so and I’ll be just fine, it’s much better than it was earlier.”

Sebastian sighed slightly and then chuckled. “Are you ready for this evening? You look gorgeous. You remind me so much of your mother.” He gave a crooked smile as he poured a glass of whiskey and then he poured her a glass and handed it to her.

“I’m ready.” She nodded and lifted the glass to her lips.

He gave a smile and chuckled. “Don’t sound so enthused dear. I promise everything will go well. That’s why we have Warren.”

Iris looked to him a long moment. “Why are things decided like this?” She questioned him and took a sip of her glass. “Why do we have to keep following a tradition that is as old as time?”

Sebastian gave a long sigh, “Dear, this is how the council wants it to be run. So that is how it will be run. Your mother and I were placed together as well. You see we love each other very much. My father did a wonderful job finding her. I know you very well, this is why I have chosen Warren.”

Iris nodded slowly, “I understand father. What do you need me to do this evening?” She asked softly.

Sebastian smiled, “You’re already doing exactly what you need, you look beautiful. I want you to show interest in Warren, and if you find a pure blood that sparks your interest make sure you remember him for me I will do my research.” He finished his glass. “Your mother should have the carriage waiting outside. Everything will be fine dear, just relax. Don’t think about it too much.” He cupped her cheek before they stepped from the study. “I’m sorry it has to be this way, when I get into the council if I can do anything to change some of our tired traditions I will.”

Iris followed him, she gave a gentle smile. “I know father.” She spoke as they started toward the stairs. As they reunited with everyone she glanced to Julian as he was ordered to get Warren. She then looked to Cassandra and grinned. She looked to her mother, “You look wonderful mother.” She complimented.

Lucille stepped forward, she adjusted the rose in Iris’ hair and smiled. “Absolutely stunning dear.” She brushed a few hairs around and grinned. “Just stunning.” She looked to Cassandra. “You did a rather good job with Cass here too.” Lucille spoke the nickname. She placed her hand on Cassandra’s shoulder.

Warren and Julian returned then. Warren’s eyes looked to Iris and he bowed his head, he’d matched her dress choice almost perfectly today, a red and black vest to match her colors. He wore a top hat that made him look dashing.

Soon enough they climbed into the carriage and they were off to the city. “I can’t wait for the food.” Julian spoke, a grin on his lips.

“Or the drinks.” Iris winked to him.

“I thought it was all about the dancing.” Lucille chimed in, she chuckled then.

Sebastian chuckled as he poured glasses of wine and handed them out. “To us.” He spoke. “We fended off those furballs for another day so that we may celebrate on of the most important evenings of this century.” He raised the glass. “Thank you Cassandra for leading such a strong effort against the Lycans today.” His eyes locked on Cassandra then.

Their glasses clinked together and everyone took their drink. Iris chuckled her eyes falling on Cassandra once again. Julian watched the two and snickered slightly he drink his wine and looked out the window. Warren smiled and looked to Iris, his eyes looking over her beautiful appearance.

Soon enough they came to a stop outside of the church that was to be the ball room. They all climbed out and headed up into the church. People were lively in the streets, drinking and laughing having a wonderful time. It was the most people that had been in the city all week. Iris glanced to Cassandra and grinned. “This will be a lot of fun.” She spoke. Her father beckoned her to follow. Iris took in a breath. “Don’t forget you owe me at least one dance hm?” She looked to her. “Don’t leave Julian far behind.” She looked to him, a long moment her eyes locked on his before she moved away through the crowd with the king and queen.

Julian looked to Cassandra. “Ah the drinks! The food!” He grinned. “Come on.” He grabbed her hand and towed her through the ball room, up toward the front where he stopped at a buffet table. “Eh?” He chuckled. “This is the best part.” He winked.

Soon enough the king and queen were on the stage. “Good evening ladies and gentlemen.” Sebastian spoke, his eyes looking out on the crowd. “I would like to welcome you and thank you for coming to the ball tonight. It is a very special occasion. Tonight marks the first night Iris Remington is up for courtship. The first dance is owed to Warren Graves for his heroic efforts today.” He spoke before he nodded to her. A circle opened up in the center of the ballroom.

Iris stepped down from the stage, all eyes were on her. She took in a breath as she stepped to the middle of the room to meet Warren. She stared up into his eyes and gave a warm smile. The music began and they moved fluidly through the well rehearsed steps. He dipped her down low and twirled her before he pulled her back in close. The crowd cheered as they danced. Iris chuckled as the song came to an end, her face close to his. She was playing her part, doing as she was asked. She looked as though she was interested in him. “I’ll see you soon.” She spoke and gave him a kiss on the cheek before she was towed into the next dance.

It was dance after dance until she stepped to the side. She lifted a glass of wine to her lips as she looked out at the crowd. Iris turned her head and smiled as she caught a glimpse of the red rose in Cassandra’s hair. She slipped into the crowd and at the start of the next song she grasped Cassandra’s hand. “Ah, you tried to escape.” She winked, she’d had several drinks through the night, her cheeks were rosy from the alcohol. She danced and giggled as they moved about, though together it seemed they meshed better than she meshed with Warren. Iris smiled wide as she spun and pulled Cassandra in close. At the end of the song she smiled. “Are you having a good night? It’s fun huh?” She asked and chuckled. She glanced around. She knew at the end of the night the vampires would feed, she knew she had to protect Cassandra then.

“A dance princess?” A man held his hand out, he bowed his head. “I would be honored.”

Iris glanced to Cassandra as Julian stepped in and took her hand in another dance. She was whisked away by this vampire then.

Iris twirled about with the man that scooped her away. He pulled her in close and stared down to her with hazel eyes. “Ah princess, I’ve been chasing you all night.” He chuckled, his lips moved near her ear as he spoke.

Iris chuckled and pulled back slightly looking up at him, “Oh? Was it worth it?” She winked to him, the sound was beginning to come to a close.

“Certainly.” The vampire chuckled and looked over her body. “So, your father.” He held her still as everyone else began to switch partners. “Does he have a chosen pure blood? Or is the ball truly a competition to see who can win your heart?”

Iris looked to him with playful eyes then. “You tell me.” She raised a brow.

He twirled her and pulled her back against his chest. “If I can’t win you over I don’t know who can.” His hands held her hips.

”Julian!”

Iris tensed, her eyes turned golden. She took in a sharp breath and ripped his hands from her body.

“Princess! Wait!” He cried as she dashed off.

“What did you do to scare her off like that?” Warren raise a brow and chuckled. “You know you have to be careful with her, she’s rather picky.” He grinned to the man.

Iris shoved dancing couples aside as she bound through the crowd. Her eyes were trained on where she’d heard the sound. She couldn’t only think of what could be out on the balcony, Ravus attacked and was mauling Julian? Arden was there? She moved out onto the balcony her breathing quick. The door slammed behind her as her brows drew together when she realized the monster was not a Lycan. “Julian.” Her voice was a low growl. “Julian let her go!” She slammed her fist into his back, the punch was harsh, the crack of a bone sounded as his lower floating rip fractured.

Julian let out a yelp, his fangs lifted out of Cassandra’s neck, he still held her tightly as blood ran down his chin.

Iris slammed her fist into his jaw and in an instant she had him gripped by his throat and shoved against the side of the building. She snarled her fangs showed. “What are you doing?!” She slammed him again. Julian’s eyes were wide. “You can’t do this again Julian….” She muttered her voice grew soft then.

Julian looked away his eyes sad. “I…I’m sorry.” He breathed, “I was caught in the moment…”

Iris slammed her fist against the side of his head and turned to Cassandra. She placed her hand on her neck, pressing gently. “Cassandra?” She asked, her eyes filled with worry. She held her close as her golden eyes looked over her. She wasn’t sure how much blood Julian had drank. Iris took in deep breaths, the potion muted the smell of her blood, luckily. Otherwise the entire ballroom would have been out on the balcony. Iris’ hand was covered in blood by this point, Cassandra’s skin was torn from Julian. “I have to get you home…” She whispered.

“Iris…” Julian held his head. “Iris…I…”

“Don’t.” Iris snapped she turned. “Don’t say a word Julian.” She still held Cassandra to her chest, she was holding her up by this point. Iris shifted and pulled Cassandra up into her arms, cradling her. “Be sure to tell father why I’ve disappeared.” She shot him a dark stare before she leaped from the balcony. She landed on the cobblestone street below and sprinted forward. “Hang on.” She breathed. She rushed along through the forest, making a direct cut to the mansion. It seemed like seconds and they were in the home. Iris lay Cassandra on her bed, blood ran down the front of her chest from the wound on Cassandra’s neck. She paced slightly. “Just breathe.” She spoke softly as she drew up a small vial of Cassandra’s blood, she placed it onto a plate and dropped a solution onto it. She was testing her blood type. She watched as some of the blood clotted and balled up, only one remained liquid. “There.” She spoke and disappeared from the room for a few seconds. She came back with a bag of blood in her hands she quickly hung it from the dresser next to her bed. “Okay….” Iris tied off a tourniquet. “It’s okay…” She breathed.

Iris slipped the needle into her arm and taped it off before she hooked the bag up to it. She adjusted the flow and then she moved quickly to the cabinet. She pulled Cassandra’s head into her lap as she began to clean the wound. “I’m sorry…” She whispered, her voice incredibly soft. She sniffled slightly as she cleaned. She tossed several soaked gauze strips to the side before she finally had the bleeding slowed enough to patch it. She gently pressed the bandage into place. Though she didn’t move from where she sat. Iris stared to Cassandra with worried eyes. She glanced to the bag of blood, it was halfway through.

**

Julian gripped the balcony he’d wiped the blood from his chin, though he had a deep bruise on his jaw from Iris.

“Where is Iris?” Warren came out onto the balcony. He looked to Julian. “Why the long face?” He asked and raised a brow. He then stepped forward and touched his cheek, a bit of blood remained that he’d missed. His brows raised as he looked to it. “You didn’t…”

Julian bit his lip, “It was the wine…” He muttered, “I was having a good time, she was too.” He shifted uncomfortably.

Warren crossed his arms, “Where is Cassandra now?” He asked, “The king won’t be pleased with you.”

“Iris took her, I know…I’ve let the whole coven down with my actions.” Julian breathed though he didn’t speak any more.

Warren took in a deep breath. “I can’t blame you, she’s beautiful. But you have to control yourself.” He turned then. “I’ll inform Sebastian that an accident has happened. I won’t be mentioning your name, I will leave that up to you.” He then walked inside. Warren weaved through the crowd.

A hand caught his chest, the vampire from before. “Where is she? Did I upset her that much? You seem to have the upper hand…she loved dancing with you.” He searched Warren’s eyes.

“I can’t find her.” Warren spoke, “You seem to have really outdone yourself with chasing her off.” He raised a brow. “A shame, I wanted one more dance with the princess.” He chuckled then before he walked off. Warren found the king and queen and looked to them with soft eyes. “My king.” He bowed deeply.

“Warren?” Sebastian stood from the table, he’d just taken a bite of food. “What is it?” He looked over him with worried eyes.

“There has been an accident--….”

“Where is Iris?” Lucille stood, her eyes wide. “Is she alright?”

“Cassandra was attacked.” Warren spoke. “A vampire got a hold of her and was drinking from her.”

“Is she….?” Lucille asked but didn’t finish her sentence.

“Iris took her home, I imagine she’s transfusing blood. She’s a smart girl.” Warren replied.

“Who was it?” Sebastian asked his eyes narrowed.

“I’m not sure. I just saw Iris rush off with Cassandra. I knew what happened…” Warren spoke the lie effortlessly.

Sebastian took in a slow breath, “Where was Julian? He was supposed to be protecting her.” He snarled slightly.

“You know how the dances are. It’s hard to keep track of anyone. I’ve been getting as many dances with Iris as possible, as you requested, but over the course of the night I was only able to dance with her three times.” He raised his brows. “It’s easy to lose anyone in here.”

Lucille stepped forward and cupped Warren’s cheek. “Go home to her, help her. We will come up with something.”

Warren gave a nod, “Yes my queen.” He bowed deeply as he stepped away. He pushed passed Julian, his shoulder brushing against his, he glared to him a moment before he walked outside. Warren waited until he was out of any human eyesight before he sprinted off. He rushed down the same path that Iris had taken. He could still smell her sweet perfume in the air. He skidded to a stop and walked into the home. He knocked and slowly pushed the door open. “Iris?” He asked softly.

Iris was hooking up a second bag of blood at that point. She stood over Cassandra, her brows tucked together. She glanced to Warren with glassy eyes. “Warren?” She breathed as she finished setting up the bag. She stepped to him and threw her arms around him.

Warren held her close. “It’s okay.” He whispered. “She’ll be fine, she has you taking care of her.” He kissed the side of her head. “If anyone in the Coven is good at medicine it’s you.”

Iris sniffled slightly. This was bringing back the memories of the night Elise was attacked. She remembered it clearly, as if it was yesterday. Blood lined her clothing as she rushed into the mansion. Elise had huge gashes down her leg and back. She’d begged her father to turn Elise, but by the time she’d gotten Elise home she was too far gone to turn, too weak. Iris did everything she could, she patched the wounds she transfused blood. Though, the injuries were too great, Elise succumbed to the wounds in the early hours of the morning. Iris pulled from him and looked to Cassandra.

“Why don’t you get changed hm?” He looked to her and offered a gentle smile. “I’ll watch her. Don’t worry.”

Iris stared to him a long moment before she nodded. She changed behind the screen and came out in her tanktop and pajama pants. She sighed heavily as she pulled the rose from her hair. “Why did he do that?” She whispered softly.

“Julian was caught in the moment, Iris. If this was any other human it wouldn’t bother you.” Warren noted. “Remind yourself that.” He shifted slightly and placed his hand on her back. “Here.” He brushed a bit of blood from her neck. “Julian didn’t mean to, you know that.” He searched her eyes.

Iris shook her head, clearly agitated. “He should have controlled himself…he shouldn’t have done this…” She whispered. She moved to the bed. She carefully moved her hand beneath Cassandra, her fingertips gripped the lace of the corset. She pulled gently allowing the corset to loosen so that it wasn’t constricting her. Iris then pulled Cassandra’s torso into her lap as she sat back on the bed. She leaned back against the head board and glanced to the blood bag.

“I’ll leave you be…” Warren whispered.

Iris brushed her fingers through Cassandra’s hair a soft hum coming over her lips until she eventually slipped into a deep sleep. Though, her sleep was riddled with nightmares of the attack. Her brows quivered in her sleep.

**

As the sunlight pushed into the room the next morning Iris didn’t move. She still held Cassandra gently. The smells of breakfast cooking filled the home.

A gentle knock came from the door. Julian stepped in quietly. “H-how is she?” He asked, his eyes cautious.

Iris stared to him, her eyes cold as ice. “You nearly drank her dry, Julian.” She snapped.

Julian bowed his head. “I…I’m sorry…” He took in a slow breath. “I’ll get you both plates.” He turned and left the room.

Iris took in a deep breath, calming herself. Her eyes had turned golden as she spoke to him. “Cassandra?” She spoke softly, “Can you hear me?” She brushed her hair gently from her face.

Iris gently held Cassandra as she came to. “Cassandra, you’re okay.” She spoke her eyes looking over her in a worried fashion. She slipped from beneath her and cupped her cheek. “Okay okay…” She breathed as Cassandra began to cry. She rushed to her books and began flipping through them. She bit her lip as she tried to find something. Anything.

The door pushed open again Julian stood with a plate of food. His eyes stared to Cassandra. Iris ripped the plate from his hands and set it on the desk before she slammed him against the wall. “Why are you even still breathing?!” She snapped at him. She shoved him. “Look what you’ve done!” Her voice was angry.

Julian took in a sharp breath. “Iris.”

Iris narrowed her eyes. “Get out.” She snapped.

Julian watched her a moment with sad eyes before he slipped from the room like a shadow beneath the sun. Iris turned back to Cassandra. She bit her lip. “It’s okay…” She muttered softly. She pulled a vial from her desk, it was Valerian. She came over to Cassandra. “You’ll be okay, I’m sorry Cassandra…I should have been wish you…this is my fault…” She rambled through her words, her voice trembled slightly. She injected the clear liquid into Cassandra and brushed her hair from her face gently. “Shhh.” She soothed as she waited for her to fall asleep.

“Iris…” Lucille stood in the doorway. “Do you know who did this to her?” She stepped over to the side of the bed. “Was it one of our Coven?”

“Warren didn’t tell you?” Iris shot a look and raised her brow.

“Warren doesn’t know who attacked her.”

“That’s a load of lies.” Iris spat back. “He knew damned well who did it when he showed up here. I left Julian on that balcony covered in Cassandra’s blood.” She spoke quickly.

Lucille raised her brows. “It was Julian?” She asked her voice soft. She lowered her eyes and let out a long breath. “I will take care of it, I will let your father know.” She then bit her lip slightly. “She’s in a great deal of pain isn’t she?”

Iris looked to her mother and nodded. “Yes, I gave her Valerian….I can’t find anything in the books…there is so little on the Dhampir…”

“There is little for reason, to protect them…” Lucille spoke she took in a breath. She stepped forward and rummaged through Iris’ medical bag. She pulled two syringes. She then drew a bit of blood from Cassandra and dabbed it onto a dish. “Give me your arm.” She looked to Iris.

Iris looked to her mother confused, she held her arm out slowly. “What are you going to do?” She asked.

“She’s half vampire, she can’t have a full transfusion of human blood.” Lucille drew up Iris’ blood and then she placed it into the same plate. She watched carefully as the blood mixed together. Lucille waited and then nodded, “Lucky us you have the right antibodies.” Lucille looked to her daughter. “We have to give her some of your blood.”

Iris nodded, “Anything. Anything we can do…this shouldn’t have happened…I should have been with her…”

“There was no way for you to know that Julian would act in such a manor.” Lucille moved about the room. She disappeared for a few minutes and came back with a few more supplies. She stepped to the side of the bed and pet Cassandra’s cheek gently. “We’re going to get rid of that pain, Cass.” She spoke, her voice sweet. “You’ll be okay.”

Iris moved and pulled Cassandra into her lap again, holding her gently. Her mother took her arm and poked a needle into it. Iris watched as blood ran down the tubing it looped with the lines and then it met with Cassandra’s body. “This will work right?” She asked, her eyes worried.

“Yes dear. I’ve done this before.” Lucille replied as she watched carefully. She waited until Iris’ eyes began to flutter. She clamped off the line and pulled the needles. She then carefully bandaged the two up.

Iris’ head lulled to the side as her eyes slipped shut. Lucille looked to her daughter a moment she took in a long breath. “From now one we will only trust your protection to myself, Sebastian or Iris.” She spoke as she looked to Cassandra. “Julian will be dealt with accordingly. I’m sorry dear.” She cupped her cheek before she stood and stepped from the room.

Iris’s fingertips twitched in her sleep, gripping gently onto Cassandra’s forearm and then loosening. She was in the midst of a dream. More like a memory. She walked down the empty streets of Netherfall. Her hand grasped onto someone else’s, she looked over to see Cassandra. Iris smiled as they walked along. Then suddenly they were surrounded by huge Lycans. Iris pulled her blade and fought, getting slammed back several times. She eventually knelt in a pool of blood next to Cassandra.

“Cassandra…” Iris’ eyes opened, her eyes fluttered slightly, she took in a deep gasp of air.

"You're alright dear." Lucille sat at the edge of the bed. "Just a dream." She smiled warmly to her daughter. "It's nearly evening, you've been sleeping all day."

Iris looked to her with pale blue eyes. Her eyes fluttered slightly, she was weak from losing so much blood. She looked down to find Cassandra wasn't in her lap anymore. "Cassandra?" She asked.

Lucille cupped her daughter's cheek. "Hey." She looked into her eyes. "You need to feed. I moved her so that she didn't get hurt." Lucille searched Iris' eyes.

"I wouldn't..." Iris whispered.

Lucille took in a breath, "You're very weak. I didn't want to give that to chance." She spoke and offered a careful smile. "I'll be right back dear." She stood and then slipped from the room.

Iris glanced around, her eyes fell on Cassandra whom was tucked in on the couch. "Cassandra..." She tried to move, her muscles felt like ice had formed around her body. She whimpered slightly. Iris lay back and grit her teeth. Though as her mother entered the room her eyes melted to the golden hue. Her breathing increased as her mother helped sit her up and she took the glass of blood into her hands. Iris tilted the glass back and drank the glass quickly.

"Tonight's festivities have been canceled by your father after the accident." She took in a deep breath. "There's something I've never told you Iris." She brushed hair from Iris' eyes. "Our blood is special, more so than the other covens...we carry a special strain that is as ancient as time. It's dormant in most of us, but I think that it is active in you." She glanced across the room to Cassandra. "It is a hybridization, your blood is seen as the most pure of our kind. A long time ago Dhampir's were experimented on and blood of our kind was injected into a few of them. It can have interesting effects on the Dhampir because of the unique situation of them being half vampire." Lucille watched her daughter a moment. "Cassandra should heal very quickly from this, hopefully this gives her an added boost, she should be stronger from your blood." The queen searched her eyes. "Though, we must be careful, depending on how her body reacted to the transfusion, she may need your blood to keep the attributes."

Iris looked to her mother, her brows pulled together. "Did...did you turn her...?" She asked worry in her eyes.

Lucille shook her head. "No, no I would never do that without consent. To live as long as we do is unbearable and I wouldn't place that burden on someone unwillingly." She smiled, "She is already a hybrid, we've just hopefully amplified that a bit more. She'll be able to survive much better this way."

Iris sat up slowly, her body ached. "When will she wake?" She asked, her vision blurred.

"Soon." Lucille smiled, "I'll go get her some food for when she wakes."

Iris watched her mother exit the room. She slowly stood, her legs trembled. She blinked a few times as she made her way to the bathroom. Iris poured a hot bath. She sank into the water and let out a long breath. The heat felt incredible against her icy muscles. She cleaned the remaining blood from her body and soon exited the bath. Iris pulled on a pair of tight pants, she pulled on a black tunic and fastened a dark blue corset over the top of it. She then fastened her pistol and dagger to her thighs. She clipped her ruby pendant around her neck and moved to her desk. She searched through the books in her room before she finally pulled one. She sat down at her desk and began to read. It was a book on the hybridization that her mother spoke of. Something she'd read about a few times but hadn't paid much attention. She read quickly, her eyes looking over the hand written book. It explained why she was faster than the others, especially in the hunt, she'd taken down twice what the others did at least. Iris would glance to Cassandra every now and then, waiting watchfully. What her mother said, how would it change Cassandra? She only hoped it went well. Transfusing vampire blood into a human...it was unheard of. It would kill most humans, easily within hours. Vampire blood was like a toxin to humans the antibodies would destroy the human from the inside out, it was a painful death. Much like a Lycan injecting their blood into a vampire. Enough of it would kill a vampire.

Iris sighed softly as she read, the book wasn't offering her much information on this subject. She wondered if it was to protect the Dhampir. Or if it was to protect her kind? There wasn't much on how special her blood type was. Though when her mother spoke of it, she made it sound incredibly rare...

Iris' eyes fluttered slightly as she stared to the words on the page. Her exhausted feeling still lingered. She looked up as the door pushed open. Lucille walked in, she held two mugs in her hands and held a warm smile on her lips. "What's this?" Iris asked softly as she marked her page in her book.

Lucille set the mug down in front of her. "Just a little herbal tea for you dear, it'll help you feel better. I'm sure you're freezing hm?" She sat down across from her and glanced to Cassandra. "How are you feeling?" She asked curious. "Are you up to attending the festival this evening?"

Iris took the hot mug into her hands, the warmth felt incredible. She raised the mug to her lips as she listened to her mother speak. Iris sipped from the tea and sighed happily, it was a delicious blend, she could taste peppermint, and mint, as well as a few other things. "I'm tired." Iris replied softly, "My body aches, I've never felt an ache like this." She shook her head.

Lucille searched her eyes, "Maybe I transfused a bit more of your blood than I realized." She spoke and laughed lightly. "My apologies dear." She looked to Cassandra whom was still sleeping. "She's doing well." She spoke and nodded. "If she was going to have a poor reaction, she would have had it by now. Now all that is left is waiting on her to wake."

Iris nodded she took another drink of her tea. She felt the warm sensation spreading through her body. "I hope she's okay when she wakes..." Iris whispered.

Lucille smiled gently, "She will be." She stood, her tea in her hands. "I'll be back soon to check on you two." She then slipped from the room.

Iris sat quietly at her desk, she returned to reading as she finished her tea. Eventually though Iris stood, she pulled her blanket from her bed and moved to a chair that sat in a recessed window near the balcony. The rain was beginning to pelt against the window, a welcomed sound. She curled up with the blanket wrapped around her and the book in her hands. Iris continued reading until she slipped off to sleep.

Lucille came back into the room shortly. She smiled and stepped over to her daughter. She brushed a bit of hair from her eyes and she carefully took the book from her chest. Lucille looked at the book a moment as she marked the page. She then set it on Iris' desk. It was about that moment that Cassandra began to wake.

Iris didn't budge, her forehead was pressed against the cool glass as the rain came down outside. Her breaths were deep, her expression peaceful. It was the first restful sleep she'd gotten since the ordeal began.


"A strange day to be wandering alone, isn't it?" Iris spoke, rain fell around her as she stepped to the end of a dock at the lake.

A woman sat at the edge of the dock, her feet dangled toward the water. She let out a soft laugh. "And who are you to decide what is strange and what is normal?" She asked and glanced back to Iris. She had curly red locks that fell about her procelain skin. Her eyes were an emerald green.

Iris chuckled as she sat down, she held an umbrella above her that blocked the rain. "Well, I suppose I'm not." She looked to the woman, her smile playful. "Though, what if I'm right?" She asked. "What if it is strange for you to be all alone, in the middle of a storm, in the middle of the night on a dock."

The woman smiled and then shook her head. "Perhapse you are correct." She sighed. "Though, what else do I have?" She asked. "I've lost everything...maybe I hoped the lycans would come finish me off too?" Her voice was sad.

Iris' eyes softened, "You're not lost." She spoke softly, "Don't give them that. The lycans destroy everything they see, but do not give them the victory of giving up." She stood slowly and offered her hand. "Come on." She smiled gently. "I'll help you." Iris lifted the woman and looked deeply into her eyes. This was the moment she'd met Elise.

"Iris." Lucille spoke, her voice soft. "Iris dear."

Iris opened her eyes, her mother cupped her cheek. "Mother?" She whispered.

"You were dreaming pretty hard." Lucille searched her eyes. "How are you feeling? It's nearly time to go to town for the festival."

Iris shifted, she took in a deep breath. "Better." She spoke as she slowly stood.

"You look lovely dear. Perfect for fencing." Lucille winked to her. It was that moment that Sebastian walked in with Cassandra. "Ah Cass, dear." She smiled warmly.

Sebastian nodded to Lucille, "We've come to an agreement." He spoke. He then looked to Iris. "Are you feeling well?" He asked, he noted her skin was still pale. Iris responded with a nod, her eyes glanced to Cassandra.

Lucille smiled as she stepped forward, "And the agreement is?" She asked looking to the two curiously.

"No more drinking while Cassandra is around, she's made a very good point. Drinking can cause us to lose control, just as humans lose control when under the influence of alcohol. So, no more." Sebastian gave a smile then, "And I won't forget to make sure everyone knows it's Julian's fault we can't drink." He chuckled.

Lucille chuckled then as well. "Very well. Thank you dear." She placed her hand on Cassandra's shoulder a moment. "We must get ready to go to town. We have a festival to continue, hm?" She glanced to her daughter a moment before she slipped from the room.

Sebastian stepped forward and hugged Iris gently. "You don't have to participate unless you want to." He spoke and kissed the top of her head. "Though, you're the best there is." He winked to her. Sebastian then looked to Cassandra, "When things seem to be overwhelming, just let Iris know. She will help you." He searched her eyes. "I'll see you two downstairs soon." He stepped from the room.

Iris looked to Cassandra with soft eyes. "I'm glad to see you awake." She spoke and offered a gentle smile. "I'm sorry if you're uncomfortable...we really didn't have much choice but to transfuse my blood into you..." Iris spoke softly, as if she knew that noises were going to be a problem for Cassandra. She moved to her closet and opened it looking inside, "Tonight is fencing, I'm sure you've heard of it. A fun sport." She chuckled softly. "I can best my father at it, that's why he said I'm the best." She winked and smiled. "Though, by no means am I the best." She pulled out a fencing jacket, it was black with padding around the neck for protection. She then reached forward and pulled out a black fencing mask. "It should be fun."

Iris then paused and took in a deep breath. "Um..." She bit her lip. "I'm glad you're okay..." She spoke before she stepped from the room. Iris led Cassandra down the stairs and they met with Lucille whom was dressed in a beautiful white and navy blue dress. Her father was dressed to match.

Lucille stepped forward and brushed a bit of hair from Iris' eyes. "Ready?" She asked with a gentle smile.

Iris returned a nod. They walked outside and climbed into her father's car. Iris glanced to the home, they hadn't waited on Warren. She wondered what her father had done after her found out that Warren was hiding information. Soon enough her mother and father were chit chatting. Speaking of the fencing competition last year, how Iris had beaten Sebastian. Iris smiled, she laughed along with them. She was beginning to loosen up a bit by the time they made it into town. Iris glanced to Cassandra and offered a smile before she climbed from the car. The rain had stopped. The city streets were lively with music and filled with humans and vampires alike.

Iris looped her arm through Cassandra's. "Don't worry." She spoke and gave a gentle smile. "I won't let anything happen to you...I promise." She pulled Cassandra forward. "There's dancing." She winked playfully. "Fancy a dance before fencing begins?"

Lucille chuckled as she looked back to the two. "You should come to fencing first, there is plenty of time to dance later."

Iris rolled her eyes and smiled, "Of course mother." She spoke as they made their way through the crowds. Soon enough they stood in the church where the ball had been. Tonight fencing would be held there. There were several contenders dressed and ready. Iris glanced around, her eyes caught the vampire she'd left on the dance floor the previous evening. He watched her as they walked toward the stage. Iris moved her eyes away quickly.

Sebastian stepped onto the stage and smiled as everyone quieted down. "Good evening. Tonight we celebrate an age old tradition in fencing." He grinned. "May our contenders have luck on their sides." The crowd cheered as he stepped down.

Iris chuckled at the comment Cassandra made. She glanced to her a smile remaining on her lips as they'd followed the king and queen. "If I must be caught dead to dance with you, then I shall." She smirked, "I think it would be the opposite, to get to dance with a lovely bodyguard." She winked then before she looked back ahed. She watched the crowd a moment, she seemed on high alert compared to before. She was watching nearly every movement in the room with ease.

"Tiring?" She asked and then smiled once more. "Yes, it's rather tiring, but it is all I know." Iris then smirked at Cassandra's comment. "Hm a couple hundred...perhapse, a bit longer than that though, thank you for the compliment." She glanced sideways to her as a chuckle escaped her lips. "My entire life I've known the moment would come. It isn't something that is shocking to me, it is something that I have been prepared for. Though I am not....enthused by the idea." Iris looked to her with soft eyes. "If I could have my way this whole worn out tradition would be a thing of the past, centuries ago." She winked then. "Though, as my father always tells me I can't always have my way, even if I am the princess." She smiled.

"Will you be partaking?" A voice asked.

Iris' eyes moved from Cassandra to the vampire from the night before. His hazel eyes searched hers, a smile on his lips. "Possibly." Iris shot back, her eyes locked on his. "And you?"

He chuckled to her response. "Of course I am." He glanced to Cassandra. "Who is this?" He asked.

"No one of your concern." Iris responded quickly, her eyes melted to the golden color almost instantly.

He took a step back, "I wasn't implying anything, just asking." He held his hands up. "My apologies princess. I um....I'll see you later?" He backed up a bit more and disappeared into the crowd.

Iris watched him leave before she let out a long breath. "I do wish I could have just one evening to spend with you, without these annoying interruptions." She chuckled and shook her head. "Though, as you said life of a royal is tiring, right?"

"Iris." Lucille's voice spoke. She touched her shoulder gently. "Are you feeling up to fencing?" She asked softly.

"Yes, but...."

"Don't worry, dear." Lucille smiled. "I'll spend some time with Cassandra. I don't mind."

Iris glanced to Cassandra a moment, "Alright." She nodded. "Will I be fencing father?" She asked then looking to the queen.

Lucille nodded, "Of course, my dear."

Iris smiled then, she loved fencing with him. "I'll see you soon then." She spoke and looked to Cassandra as she slipped into the crowd.

Lucille smiled, "How's your head dear?" She asked, "Come, you can sit up with me on the balcony, it has the best view." She led Cassandra through the crowd then. "It's much quieter there as well." She added.

Iris slipped along and met her father at the edge of the ring. He held her fencing gear in his hands. "Ready to lose?" Iris asked him, her smile playful.

Sebastian chuckled as he handed the gear over, "I'll win this time." He winked. He then pulled on his jacket and zipped it up before he placed his helmet over his head.

Iris grinned as she pulled on her black jacket. She adjusted the padding around her neck. She then pulled her own helmet on. The crowd became quiet as the two stepped into the arena for the first fight of the evening. Iris held up her sabre ready to begin. Her eyes looked through the mesh material to her father as he held his own sabre up. A chime sounded to mark the beginning of the match. So it began. Iris moved fluidly with her father, dodging each attack as he came at her. Their speed was impeccable. Iris chuckled as she moved around, it was a dance. It looked like a well rehearsed dance that they'd both spent months preparing.

Lucille clapped as Iris landed the first hit of the match on her father's shoulder. She glanced to Cassandra and smiled then before she looked back below.

Iris and Sebastian circled around, leaping and jabbing. Slicing and dodging. The two made a good match for eachother. Iris landed in several hits and then leaped back before her father could retaliate. By the end of the match Iris swept Sebastian off of his feet. She stood over him with the sabre pointed at his throat. She'd won. The crowd errupted into cheers as she helped her father to his feet. Iris smiled as she pulled her helmet from her head. Sebastian held her hand up and chuckled. "Once again you've beaten me." He leaned over and spoke.

Iris chuckled she looked up to him, "I told you I'd win." She smirked playfully.

Sebastian shook his head and grinned. "Ah yes, there is that." He spoke as they made their way up to the balcony to meet back up with Lucille and Cassandra.

"Ah the victor has arrived." Lucille joked as she looked to Iris. She stepped to her husband and kissed his cheek. "You taught her too well." She smiled.

Sebastian chuckled, "Well if I taught her too well at least she can defend herself." He winked.

Iris stepped next to Cassandra, she looked down to the next match as it began. She still wore her fencing jacket, her helmet in hand. She smiled then, "Tiring, yet satisfying." She smirked, going back to their conversation before.