d'Artois: Events in Time

[Doc]

Ruth: Doc. *walking up to him hurriedly and carrying a tome that Pi had given her under one arm.*

Doc: Ruth, Hello..

Ruth: Hello. Look at what Pi gave me.

Doc: Yes.. I have one too, Have you used it yet? It's quite handy

Ruth: *nods, excited.*

Doc: I Feel much better now, knowing that should we come under attack, we have a defensive strategy

Ruth: *frowns* Why would we come under attack?

Doc: Why did we come under attack last time Ruth? Because Hunters picked us..

Ruth: I know. *sighs and smiles at him again. She's just sick of fighting with those assholes sometimes.*

Doc: You are in a very good mood.. what gives?

Ruth: I don't know. *She really didn't.*

Doc: Doc figures she and Rogue had a extra fun date night. "Ok..Not tired are you?"

Ruth: *shakes her head no.* Did you want to do something?

Doc: I have an appointment at 7pm, but until then I am just chilling. *he pauses* Oh.. I found out something.. the frustration I get when crafting.. figured out how to deal with that.

Ruth: That is wonderful news. May I ask what you do?

Doc: It helps if someone else is crafting or there.. so I can talk.. or question them. Pi was there last time.. and she also showed me a few..tricks..

Ruth: *It pleases her greatly to hear that Doc and Pi are starting to establish a better childe-sire relationship.* Oh, I see.

Doc: Did you know Pi was a killer as a human...*he nods* Well.. I should say sanctioned assassin...

Ruth: She never told me that. *The two didn't really indulge one another in their pasts. Ruth found it hard to absorb, that her sister had been a killer before. In any case, they were all killers now. No point in seeing the woman differently. But she couldn't help seeing her a little differently from then on.*

Doc: Surprised the hell out of me...but then again, just makes her that much more suited this way hmm?

Ruth: How so? *tilts her head*

Doc: Death. That would bother some. But she obviously has come to terms with it.. so sending someone to the shadow realm shouldn’t be that hard for her.

Ruth: Maybe so. ...Have you ever sent someone to the shadow realm?

Doc: Yes.

Ruth: Me too.

Ruth: Have you ever been there?

Doc: Not yet... you?

Ruth: Yes, I was. When I was a fledgeling I fought by my original family's side, the Grigori. As a weaker member, I was one of the first to be picked off.

Doc: *Doc nods* Battle tactic.. take out someone.. be the first to make a kill .. morale booster even if the victim was weak.

Ruth: It was lonesome, but now I have telepathy, so I can haunt my loved ones from beyond the grave if it ever comes to that again.

Doc: So.. then I know if I am ever there.. you will keep me company.

Ruth: *smirks as admittedly foolish but mischievous thoughts disrupt the tranquility of her spirit.* Yes. Yes I will.

Doc: Thank you Ruth. *unaware of her impish streak and the thoughts tied to it*

Ruth: *a voice invades his mind.* I am your conscience.

Doc: HAHAHA *Doc bursts out laughing*

Doc: Mean Ruth.. very mean...

Ruth: Someone has to be your conscience. I know what you do to innocent coffee cans when you think nobody is watching. *Oddly enough, her humor is somewhat similar to her sire's, though she didn't realize.*

Doc: Those coffee cans deserved it Ruth. *he nodded solumnly* And nothing you can say will convince me otherwise.

Ruth: Those coffee cans were smaller and weaker than you. There is no honor in... *pauses, almost unable to say something so disgustingly silly. This is entirely too much.* ...spilling their beans.

Doc: *laughs he couldn't help it.* I bow to your superior wit.

Ruth: *laughs softly and smiles at him, washing the area with the warmth of life if even for a moment.*

Doc: Doc grins at her. "I like it when you smile Ruth. you should do it more often."

Ruth: Heh. I will try. So, I am glad you can work even harder on your crafting now.

Doc: *nods* Me too.. the Brat wants me to make her some things for B&E's .. and I want to be to supply her as well as she has supplied me.

Ruth: There are things to help with breaking and entering? *Why, that was her thing.*

Doc: Yes.. quite a few. You didn't know this?

Ruth: No. Would you mind making me some?

Doc: I will, though currently I don’t have the supplies for them.

Ruth: I will find them for you. Tell me what you need.

Doc: Next time I get I am at the crafting table I will make you a list.. hard to remember off the cuff.

Ruth: *nods gratefully* Thanks. See you later?

Doc: Sure Ruth.. take it easy...

[Pi dArtois]

‹Pi dArtois› Pi liked sleep. She hit the bed and she wallowed there for a good 30 minutes getting her position just right and bam, she was out like a light, clutching the pillow to her cheek, her legs curled up to her chest and the blankets up to her chin. She loved to poke her nose out of the covers on a cold winter night and nothing, her blankets a warm cocoon she hibernated in through the night. She was a burrower. She burrowed into Lan’s shoulder before she passed out or burrowed into both, snuggling herself into the curve of his body even as she wrapped the blanket around her.

Tonight she lay in bed, nothing much going on. Elliot had left for the night and she had opted to wallow for a bit where she was, until his voice invaded her brain and made her want to bury her head under a pillow and scream into the soft mass. His words made her sit up and search the table beside her bed for her phone. Her fingers move swiftly as she sent him a message. [Text] “What! – What is going on with Mathias?”

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "A little late aren't we? For wanting updates?"

[Text] "Normally I wouldn't bother you...what with you cutting me off last time...but I figured something like this...maybe you should know...maybe I should...tell you?"

‹Pi dArtois› Staring at her phone Pi wished she could transport herself through the line, find Jazir's throat and squeeze until until he turned a purple shade of blue. Instead she grit her teeth and responded to him, her fingers moving across the screen. [Text] "Yes, tell me about Mathias."

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "I wish I could see your face...I really do...it would make everything so much more worth it..."

[Text] "I like the fact that I'm sending this as a text too...over an electronic signal instead of personally to your brain...it'll just add to the shock factor...damn near make it cliche'."

[Text] "I killed him."

‹Pi dArtois› The first reaction you have when you hear those words is anger, shock which were followed closely by a ingrained need for revenge, an overwhelming need to get a pay back for what he'd said he'd done. But this was Jazir, the man who was as dramatic as his three word statement sent over a phone line in the expectation to get the biggest reaction. Pi closed her eyes and replied. [Text] You were always dramatic. Tell me what happened.

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "You didn't break your phone? Damn..."

[Text] "You probably wouldn't understand even if I told you...does it really matter? Do you really want me to defend myself? I thought you'd just take the simple fact I've provided and unconditionally hate me for it..."

[Text] "After all...isn't it what you've been dreading since we've gotten together? Dreading hearing?"

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Stop being so damn dramatic Jazir. Everything has to be about you doesn't it? Well, this isn't about you at all. It's about Mathias and if you can stop going on about yourself for five seconds. And then tell me about my childe. What happened to him?

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "I made him promise me that he wouldn't commit suicide...I made him promise that he wouldn't be gone when I came home...and in return...I told him that I'd love him regardless what he did...and that if the reason he wanted to die was something important...that he had to face...that I would be the one that would help him do so....he agreed."

[Text] "It took a week...every day that passed I asked him if he'd changed his mind...until the last one..."

[Text] "Every day he told me...'no'."

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Let me get this right? You killed him because he asked you to?

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "I killed him...because he needed me too. I felt it as clearly as I did anything else. There was no...if I could have made him happy...if I could have made things work without doing so I would have. In a heartbeat. But I honestly feel that it was the right thing to do, and I don't care...I don't care what anyone else thinks...because I know in my heart what it means to the both of us...and that's more important...and more lasting...than any bias or judgement...inflicted by outside parties."

[Text] "I intend to join him...so if you want to strike the killing blow, I'm open to it...I'm in your portal room as we speak. And if you won't then I'll just break every law there is...until I can be with him in the Fade...until he decides to come back..."

[Jazir Pevinah]

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] So what do you want me to do? Be the one who kills you for doing nothing more than succumb to some emo-suicide pact you have with my childe?

Throwing off the covers Pi scrambled around the room for her clothes. Pulling on pants, shirt and bra. Leaving her feet bare she walks into the next room, lifts the cardigan off the couch and shrugs into it. Her phone back in in hand she texts back [Text] I'll be there in 2 minutes.

Searching the room for her shoes she grabs them, wobbling as she put one on ... then the next.

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "To slap me or kill me?"

Slightest twinge of amusement touches down in her mind.

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Both

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "Because it almost sounded like you didn't care? Didn't think what I'd done mattered...if it wasn't done in malice...which I...do you really believe that? Can you believe that? That I didn't do what I did out of malice?"

‹Pi dArtois› Did Pi really want to kill him? No, not really. She was so over this crap they had both put each other through. Pi had talked to Mathias, while he hadn't been ready to throw himself off a cliff she saw the instability in him. She recognised the spirit of him dwindling. But she just wasn't willing to accept there was nothing, absolutely nothing that could be done. And when she saw Jazir it really would be touch and go whether she would shoot him or punch him in the face for being so stupid

[Text] I'll talk to you when I'm there. I'm heading to the portal room now.

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "I have a bounty of two thousand on my head...so if you kill me at least I'll be somewhat repaying you for what you gave us for the rings..."

[Text] "It's my backup pla-...is Lia a bounty hunter?"

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Damn you.. I'm on my way. We need to get you hidden until we work this out. You stupid man.

[Text] YES. Get out of there now!

‹Jazir Pevinah› [Text] "That would explain the change of scenery...I think I've been...damn...guess you won't get your money after all...I'm surrounded and I have no weapons...I have...nothing..."

[Text] "I sold everything except what was needed because I knew I wouldn't take it to the Fade with me..."

*sensation of sudden pain is shared, a strike of lancing fire across her upper thigh that clarifies and then fades*

‹Pi dArtois› They'd teleported him and at the door of the portal room Pi stopped, looked around and slumped. He was gone. Gone and she didn't know where they'd sent him to kill him. And the fool still text her, knowinging the hunters had come. [Text] Take care of my childe Jazir.. when you rise. We will be talking.

She didn't know if he got it, or if he was already dead and his phone dropped from his nerveless fingers and his spirit was sent to the fade.

All she knew is that she'd been too late. Too late again to save him or Mathias or do anything but stare into an empty portal room and slam the flat of her palm against the wall and swear into the empty room." Damn you Jazir!"

[Lancaster]

<Elliot d’Artois> Elliot never used Crownet. He rarely used the d’Artois Crownet, let alone the Grigori one. At least he checked the d’Artois Crownet often enough—the Grigori one, however. Well, he never really had a need to check it, though he supposed that he ought to. Especially after he’d got the message from Pi. There was a thread there, apparently, that Bailey had started. Elliot vaguely remembered Bailey, and he read the thread with sympathy. He hoped that she would contact Pi, and Cytherea. Hoped that she would find somewhere to feel at home. He had no idea what her past was, or why she felt the way she did. He had no idea why Amaranthia should be so cold toward one of her own. And he’d want to hear the whole story before weighing in, anywhere.

But what really got to him, and the reason, he supposed, why Pi had told him to check the Crownet to begin with, was Cytherea’s response to Bailey. Bailey complained about the family’s lack of loyalty. That she felt as if she could die and it wouldn’t matter one iota to any of them. Cytherea had said that she understood. Understood, as if she felt the same way about her family.

Lancaster had felt his throat tighten, that familiar cold wave of guilt and shame threatening to drown him. He couldn’t ignore it any longer. Wouldn’t. He could contact Cytherea telepathically, but given the fact she hadn’t replied to him the last time he’d done that, he figured he’d try a different tact. Instead, he retrieved his phone and sent her a message:

”Can we catch up some time soon? Let me know when you’re free, and where’s best.”


<Cytherea> Cytherea had been sitting peacefully at the crafting table, it was silent around the area, which she was thankful for, otherwise she might have failed a lot more. The time seemed to fade by as she brought components together, trying to build certain things and before long, she felt her energy drain, dipping into the reserves she had. It was then her phone alerted her to a message, distracting her from the tasks at hand. Elliot. Golden irises scanned the text, her mind processing the offered words. Was there a point to this meeting? Like last time? Perhaps her comment to Amara had earned disapproving words to her sire.

With that in mind, she replied, her fingers gliding over the screen of her phone. ''I'm at the crafting bench in the Portal room, you can stop by now. I need a break anyways.'' And so it sent, and she waited for the male to show, wondering how this meeting would play out.


<Elliot d’Artois> The portal room. Easy. Too easy, really. Elliot touched the tome that remained always in his pocket, but this time he didn't have any reason to use it. He was sitting in the music room in his apartment; he'd been editing a few things when Pi had messaged and told him to check the Grigori Crownet. To think, Cytherea was just through that fadeportal, and had been all along. He could have just stumbled across her, rather than messaging. Oh well - what's done is done. He stood and pushed his fingers through his hair--his way of combing. He wore a faded Iron Maiden shirt and a pair of worn jeans. There were no shoes on his feet. And he remained so dressed as he stepped through the fade door into the portal room. This room was still home, and so he would remain comfortably dressed for home. He approached the crafting table.

“Cytherea. How are you?" he asked. Genuinely curious - really, how was she?


* Cytherea had remained on the seat situated by the table, though her lashes had lowered, using the time she had to mediate, to make sure she wouldn't lash out or get too emotional when she did come face to face with the male. All too soon though, his voice broke the enchantment of her meditation. A smile found it's way to her lips as she opened her eyes. ''Elliot, a pleasure to see you again. I am well, and yourself?'' she questioned, her tone calm and soft.


<Elliot d’Artois> "Yeah, doing good," he replied with an easy shrug. And it was the truth, for once. For once, there didn't seem to be too much drama. Although he was certain that there was probably some harboured resentment somewhere, ready to surface from someone, for the moment it was all calm and steady. And he reveled in it. Except for this one thing - and he needed to know. He folded himself down onto a stool opposite Cytherea, arms resting on the bench in front of him. Except....except he didn't quite know how to start. "Crafting? Do you need anything? I have a few spare parts and....things. I'd have no idea what to do with them..."


* Cytherea tilted her head, studying the male before her, it caused her lips to quirk. ''Thank you for the offer, but I don't really craft a lot. It's mostly Pi or Doc. Now. Why don't you spill what you really wanted to speak about?'' she pressed, it practically radiated off the male, screaming at her; he was being awkward, unsure. And it confused Cytherea, was she in deeper trouble that she had anticipated. ''Is something wrong? Everything fine with you and Pi?'' she inquired, hoping it would help.


<Elliot d’Artois> For a few seconds Elliot was silent. He really needed to do something about that; he could have snapped. Could have asked why she thought he was there for some particular reason. Couldn't a sire simply inquire after a childe's good health?! It wasn't a good thing, that she should assume he had some reason. But he did. He couldn't lie - he never really was a good liar. He cleared his throat. "Everything's fine with me. Honestly - all I wanted to know was whether everything was okay with you. I read your reply to Bailey - you said you knew how she felt. So I just... I suppose want to make sure that you know that we--at least I--would never... abandon you. Not on purpose. Right?"


<Cytherea> Ah, so that was his reasoning. Understandable, he thought she resented him and felt a lone. I suppose in a way her emotions had bled into the post, though not exactly as he thought. She had choosen to detach herself, and others didn't seem too bothered, though she wasn't expecting them to proclaim to miss her or anything. Dying had revealed a few things, things she hadn't yet said to her sire. ''I am fine, and aware you wouldn't abandon me. Dying helped me come to terms with a lot of things, helped me see it in a different light I suppose you could say. Thank you. After a week in the darkness, I was going mad. You saved me from a lifetime in the dark when I would die.''

“I don't feel abandoned. I've choosen the remain distanced as you could say. I was just offereing support to Bailey, as once I had felt like she has. Things happen, we aren't close, we barely speak, but I don't expect you to be attached at my hip. You have your life, I have mine. I try not to burden others too much. Though, I do get a kick out of visiting Doc a lot.''


<Elliot d’Artois> Elliot watched Cytherea carefully. It didn't matter, in his opinion, that he had saved her. Because he was the reason she'd died to begin with. If it weren't for him, she'd have lived a full, happy life in the sunshine. Was she saying, now, that she preferred immortality to ever having to die at all? And who's to say, exactly, that a human death would be the same as a vampiric one? To die naturally of old age, they could have ended up somewhere else. Somewhere that's not the shadow realm. Could have been reincarnated. Now, however, Elliot feared their souls would forever be bound to this place. They'd never be free again. But he didn't bring this up. Didn't air his concerns, because of the guilt he was still slave to. Instead, he wanted to understand. "Why? Why have you chosen to stay distanced?"


<Cytherea> ''It's easier this way, for myself and others. I won't get attached, and when things happen, like what did with Robert, where he betrayed me and I died for lies, I won't get hurt. I'm more cautious now, more reserved. Doc gave me the advice to be more careful about where I place my emotions, and he was right.'' the smile remained in place, genuine. ''It hasn't changed anything, no one seems to be bothered, and neither am I. I still communicate every once in a while, so I don't think it's a bad thing, right?'' was she wrong? She couldn't be sure, he would tell her though, as her sire he was meant to inform her of things that were wrong and correct.


<Elliot d’Artois> "That's hardly a way to live," Elliot scoffed. The words fell from him before he could stop them. For a second his blue eyes widened, and he shook his head. Dark hair fell over his eyes, and for the time being he left it there. "I mean, that's how I feel anyway," he added, playing with a random bit of pipe that just so happened to be in front of him. "I hate them, sometimes, but emotions give my life meaning. I wouldn't be able to write music, if it weren't for my emotions. I suppose it could be different for you," he said, slowly peeling his gaze away from the pipe to appraise Cytherea. He wouldn't say it, but a life without attachment, without emotion, would be just as bad as languishing in the shadow realm, right? "Without...without it, wouldn't it be just as dull as the Shadow Realm?" he asked, a sheepish smile threatening the corners of his lips. Now, now he was just asking out of plain curiosity.

“And anyway,” he added, before she could respond. “It will bother me, if you think everyone’s better off without you. I did that. It’s why I didn’t know, straight away, that you’d died. It’s why I didn’t hear you, when you spoke to me,” he said, tapping his temple. “I was in a bad place. I was…” he shook his head, sighed. “I thought everyone would be better off, and so I locked myself up in a dark hole with the intention of never coming out. It’s not a fun place to be,” he added, firmly. “And I don’t want you to end up there, too.”


<Cytherea> A twinge of sadness crept into her features then, marring the delicate feminine face of the female, though she tried to keep that smile, it seemed to fade. ''I'm left to my own devices a lot of the time. No one seeks me out, unless something is needed. Why should I invest my emotions into something like that? You turned me, for whatever reason, I've never asked. But in doing so, you should be the one who seeks me out, yet it's rare. And to be honest, at first I resented you for it. But now I understand. I'm not a child, I'm a woman. You owe me nothing, you turned me, gave me a new life, that's more than enough. Expecting anything else, is silly. So, placing hope into something that isn't there, is more foolish than shying away from people. Don't get me wrong. I still speak to some, I'm not completely emotionless. But not as I was. I've let go of the hate I held for you, come to terms with my life, and with you. We're all monsters in this world, myself included.''


<Elliot d’Artois> This was a revelation to Elliot. He shook his head, vehemently against everything that Cytherea was saying, although he did not interrupt. He waited until she had finished before speaking, and this he did with all the zest of a kid who's just learned something new at school. "I sought you out now because I DO care, despite appearances. Christ, Cyth, I thought you hated me. I kept my distance because... well, ****, I thought you didn't want to see me. That I'd just be a reminder of your rotten bad luck. You were ... when I ... you were one of the people I thought would be so much better off without me," he explained. Was this all it was, then? Miscommunication? Assumptions gone awry? He was too caught up in the revelation to say much else; to comment on the belief that they were all monsters. Maybe she was right, but they were only ever as monstrous as they believed themselves to be. Of this, he wanted to assure Cyth--but first, wanted to make sure that she knew that he did care.


<Cytherea> They had been here before, it was almost a cycle of theirs; talk, confess things that had gone wrong, fight and then ignore each other until one or the other tried to fix it. Though she was too tired to fight, she'd lost that part of her when she had been sent to the Shadow Realm, and so if they devolved into that playground, she would be leaving without a word. Though things seemed to be fairing much better than any time before. ''I did hate you, or rather, hated you because I didn't understand or want to accept anything. That's passed though, and you've seen how I have changed, in some aspects, for the better, others I think you wouldn't like so much. I don't feel like anyone really cares, this family isn't exactly close knit. And I've come to terms with that, I don't know what you want me to say, Elliot, but I won't lie. You've saw me spiral, get to my lowest point, all because I cared too much and felt alone. Is that really the best place to end up again if we miscommunicate again?''

[Cytherea]

<Elliot d’Artois> "We'll just not miscommunicate. I ******* hate that this family isn't close-knit. I try, I really do, but something always seems to go wrong. I suppose I've distanced myself a bit, too, because it seems no matter how much I try to please everyone, I can't. And I can't bring the family together on my own - everyone's got to help," he paused, took a deep breath that he didn't particularly need. It was a source of great pain to him, that the d'Artois weren't as close as he wanted them to be. But he didn't know what to do about that, and so he let it slide with only a passing cringe. "Come to me, whenever you need me, Cyth. Don't live life without feeling anything, that's not living. And if you feel like you're losing control, come to me. And let me help. If...now that I know you don't loathe the sight of me, I'll find you more often. Not because I need something. But because I want to. Okay?"


<Cytherea> The smile she had held at the start wilted, leaving in it's place a forlon expression, her hands coming to rest in her lap. He was asking her to take a risk, to do the one thing she had vowed not to when she returned. Though she wouldn't tell him, for it would only cause suffering, that time in the shadow realm had been the lonliest of her life. No one had contacted her, no one had tried. No one had cared. And now he was expressing such emotion? It had broke her heart, and so she discarded needing such feelings, it had only proved to hurt her. She tried to smile once more at his words, but it was evident she couldn't hold the gesture. ''I'll try. Our relationship was lost a long time ago, and perhaps instead of trying to be sire and childe, we should try to be friends, see how that works and progress from there.'' safe zone, for when or if it failed, she wouldn't feel too much. And truth be told, she had come to rely on another for Elliot's position, she didn't feel right just putting him back into the place another sat.


<Elliot d’Artois> "Sure, yes. I can do that," Elliot said, without hesitation. He could have argued and fought, could have lamented the loss of a relationship via miscommunication. But he didn't. Instead, he allowed Cytherea her freedom. He couldn't and wouldn't dictate what she did and did not do with her life, or how she went about living it. All he could do was make sure she was happiest in whatever she chose, and help her to remain that way. Besides, they did have eternity, and this was a good place to start. "What else is new, Cyth? Is there anything you need?"


<Cytherea> Honey depths sought out the other as she listened to his inquiry. Was there anything she needed? A little part of her voiced that she could use a hug, a shoulder even, but she squashed it instantly, refusing to fall back into old habbits. She didn't need such trival things as physical contact, she was fine without it. The inner turmoil she was battling was evident on her features and a few moments later she replied. ''Sadly nothing is new, just trying to gather more supplies for those who need it. If you happen to come across any chem waste, I could use it. Otherwise, I don't need much. And you? What is new? Do you need anything?''


<Elliot d’Artois> It was easy to see that something was happening behind those revealing eyes of Cytherea's. Whatever it was, though, she didn't voice. And Elliot didn't push. He shook his head. "I don't need anything. I just do some of the gathering - I gave all the chemical waste I had to Asteria," he said. Asteria - he should catch up with her again soon, too. "Otherwise, nothing new with me, either. Same old, same old," he said with half a smile.


<Cytherea> Sadness seemed to haunt the female at this moment, memories from past encounters invading her mind; good and bad, it was upsetting to think that something so promising had devolved into the mess that was their bond. With a sigh, she tried to shove it aside, it wouldn't do her or Elliot any good to dwell on the things that had gone wrong. ''Yes, things are rather quiet at the moment.'' she offered to the conversation, staring at the male who had turned her, her sire. ''I'm rather content with quiet, honestly. No drama.''


<Doc> Doc had just handed off a diamond tooth he bought on auction, to Pi. Normally he wouldn’t bother, but Pi had sent a plea for items. HE hadn’t' been able to donate, so this was something he could do. He used the tome to coalesce to the crafting area. He dropped of the tooth to Pi and was about to leave when he saw Cytherea. He grinned inwardly.


<Elliot d’Artois> A movement caught Elliot's attention; the sudden arrival of someone nearby. Those tomes - they'd take some getting used to, he thought. It was like something out of a bloody fairy tale, people just appearing out of nowhere. At least there were no red shoes involved. Though it was very Harry-Potter-esque. Elliot straightened his shoulders and perked a lofty brow. "No drama is good," he said in response to Cytherea, even as he nodded a greeting in Doc's direction.


<Doc> "Drama?" he heard the comment. "I fuckin hate drama. I wam with you on that E." Doc wandered in. He wasn't aware that he might be interrupting things between Psycho and E. "God I love this new tome Pi gave me.. You guys have one? **** yes they awesome. I take back one quater of the shitty things I said about Pi.. just for this..."


<Cytherea> Upon Doc's sudden arrival, Cytherea felt her tension slip away and cease to exist. A smile had formed and then a laugh surged forth when he spoke, strands of long silky hair fluttered around her arms as she shook her head. ''You always have such a way with words, Doc. Where's my coffee.'' she teased, sending a grin his way, knowing he would probably swat her or say to shut up.


<Elliot d’Artois> Elliot watched carefully, fascinated by the transformation. The laughter that bubbled from Cytherea was genuine, and he couldn't remember the last time he'd heard such a sound from her. She seemed to bloom like a flower for Doc. Doc, who admitted to hating drama, and yet then admitting to having said shitty things about Pi. Why? Elliot didn't ask. He did his best to keep that violent curiosity at bay, if only to avoid that drama they all admitted to disliking. "Yeah, I've got one. Takes a bit of getting used to," he said with a smirk.


<Doc> Doc winks at his brat, Cytherea. “Just talented that way.” He might have swatted her about the coffee if.. if he knew for a fact she had received his gift card was ignoring it. Or if, she was using it as a way to get him to bring her more. She had enough dammit. She wasn't getting more. He knew how she was. Yes, gave in to it.. but only because, that was the only way he knew how to show her he did care.


* Cytherea couldn't contain the smile that brightened her freckled face, and it was then she leaned over and pressed a kiss to Doc's cheek. ''I finally got the coffee gift card, I'll probably use it up in a week.'' she was just toying with him now, as she always did. The sparkle in her eyes turned to Elliot, the joy she felt never waning. ''I do adore Pi for my tome, saves getting sun burns every now and then. Tell her I said thank you again. And agreed, it's quite strange to use, but so wonderful.''


<Elliot d’Artois> Elliot couldn't help but grin, too. It was infectious. Whatever his true feelings might be, he was relieved to see Cytherea happy. And he would be eternally thankful to Doc for making it happen. It was in that moment that Elliot realised he didn't really know Doc all too well. This could, perhaps, be the perfect opportunity. "I'll tell her. Though I'm sure she'd love to hear it from you, too. Even if for a second time," Elliot said - off the cuff, really. Subtly suggesting that Cyth not keep her distance. Elliot pushed his fingers through his hair, and glanced between Doc and Cyth. "I almost feel like I should ask whether you two want to be left alone," he smirked.


<Doc> Doc looked at E with a confused look, then realization dawned. What the ****!? He looked at Cytherea, his look turned speculative at Cytherea. He put his arm about her shoulders and grabbed her close. “No.. No.. we have plenty of alone time, don't we Pookie?” The nickname flowed easily off his tongue because he had been calling her that for ages now. “So you told him?” he looked at her pointedly, “I will admit.. I didn’t think you had it in you. But dammit.. you have proved me wrong.”


<Cytherea> Cytherea was about to erupt with laughter, that was until Doc provided his little act. She wasn't sure which was more amusing, Elliot's assumption, or Doc's reaction. Her reply had hovered on her tongue, ''I'd have an easier time seducing the wall.'' but it never got spoken, instead Doc had spewed some lines and it caused a wicked gleam to flicker within her golden irises that only he would see. With a smile she leaned her head closer to Doc's, resisting the urge to laugh any second, she was testing how far he'd play this. ''Mm, but where's my greeting kiss?'' she inquired, her face inching closer and closer to his own. Any minute now. And then she could fall off her chair laughing.


<Elliot d’Artois> If Doc had looked confused, then Elliot took the expression and made a caricature out of it. Told him? Told him what, exactly? Yeah, Cytherea has said she visited Doc often, but nothing else about the guy. And regardless, Doc was acting as if a relationship between the two of them was something they'd sought to keep secret. Why would such a thing need to be kept secret, exactly? That was the part that confused Elliot most. "She didn't tell me anything. You two... is there something that needs to be told?" he asked, curious, tentative. He had only been teasing, seeing the way Cytherea lit up in Doc's presence. He'd not actually thought anything was going on between them. But now he genuinely did feel as if he should leave them alone; felt the urge to reel backwards, make his excuses, and return to his music room.


<Doc> Bloody hell, He thought he was helping her! But Damn if he didn't misread her cues. He thought she wanted help in regard to 'Dad' setting her up with some ineffectual infidel that would never measure up to Cytherea 's standards; but somehow met up with Dad's. And, **** it all, the look on his face seemed to imply Dad thought so. What did he did do now? Expose her to E? No. He couldn’t do that. It was his mistake. He wouldn’t make her pay for his error in judgment. So Doc planted one on her. A thorough one. One that hopefully when he was done, would leave her quiet for long enough to make his escape. He pressed it hard and forcefully.


<Cytherea> Why wasn't he retreating and squawking about her being a brat, and dear lord why was his face leaning towards hers. Those were the thoughts that plagued the females mind before it went blank, at that moment she was brain dead and thus she didn't stop Doc's forced kiss. He was meant to retreat, flee, something, not kiss her. And so she sat there, a little stunned and confused, wondering what the hell had happened.


<Elliot d’Artois> "Alrighty, then," Elliot mumbled, though he wondered whether anyone would actually hear him. He stood, full six foot six inch height retreating from the pair. Cytherea had asked for a greeting kiss, and that was no greeting kiss. That was no simple peck on the lips. Not chaste at all, and not at all a kiss conscious of company. "I'm going to... yeah, if there's anything that's....if you need me you know where to find me," he said, readying himself to leave, though awkwardly hesitant.


<Doc> Doc pulled free from Cytherea, and it took a second for him to get his wits about him. It finally dawned on him what E was saying. E was leaving.. NO. “No.. No need..” Counted to 3 “Pookie.. will .. um. Catch up to me later..” He looked at her, “Right. You will. I know you will.” He stared at her, he knew she was going to make him pay. Dammit to hell. He had only been trying to help. She was going to make him pay.. and pay hard. He needed ******* stock in coffee beans. “You two .. um go back to what you were doing.. She will yell at me later...” Crap! Did he say that out loud? Yes. He sighed.. and made his escape.


<Elliot d’Artois> Elliot was already close to the door - it was equally as confusing, the way Doc pulled away, and his muttered, abrupt response. He, too, was awkward. Something was going on there, and Elliot wasn't sure he needed to know. "You can... call him back. It's fine. I'll...go home. G'night!" he said, before making his escape, too.


<Cytherea> Confusion, it was the only thing she felt at that exact moment and then deserted. Both men had fled like the hounds of hell were on their tails and all that had happened was a kiss, albeit a less than friendly kiss. What on earth had Doc been thinking? Though when she replayed the scene, and his ending comment, she couldn't help but to laugh, shaking her head. Yell at him? Perhaps she should, just to toy with him, which she so enjoyed doing. She turned then, going back to her previous task, trying not to laugh every few minutes.

[Doc]

Cytherea: *bumped his hip with her own.* So, I believe you owe me a coffee. I missed the one you owed me last night for obvious reasons.

Doc: Yes.. and it went cold.. I kept it though.. should I go fetch it?

Cytherea: Got a microwave?

Doc: Yes... Not that I use it anymore

Cytherea: We can stick it in there and heat it up, and in that time you can tell me how much you adore me. *grinned teasingly.*

Doc: This is you making me pay.. isn't? *heads to the now unused kitchen and get coffee out of the mostly unused fridge. He pops that top off an heats the coffee in the microwave* I adore you. Happy? *said flatly, with a level look*

Cytherea: *felt a bright smile weave across her dark lips, her golden irises sparkling with mischief.* Ooh? Do you? I adore you too, muffin. *she almost choked on her laughter at that point.*

Doc: *He closed his eyes briefly at the 'name' muffin.* Yep. That's me. Sweet and fluffy *his voice dry, and slightly sarcastic, then he smirked slyly* I am so sweet. a girl could get cavities...

Cytherea: I eat enough sweet things, I'll pass on you for now. *she was going to die of laughter any moment.* I couldn't believe you done that though, and Elliot's face, and how fast he fled, like Satan himself was on his ***. It was the most amusing thing ever.

Doc: Its funny now.. then .. if I could have had a coronary.. I would have

Cytherea: Kissing me wasn't that bad. And for my first kiss it was.. not what I had envisioned. *she admitted truthfully, a little of her laughter spilling out.*

Doc: That was not your first kiss..

Cytherea: Yes it was. *laughed even more at the situation.*

Doc: Well ****.. *He glared at her..* If I had known.. I wouldn't have.. well hell .. I thought you needed saving... Next time.. no saving unless you say the ...the *still glaring..* saving word.

Cytherea: *couldn't contain it any longer, she just burst out laughing, her head falling onto the counter as she almost passed out.* Oh lord, you are just amazing Doc. Don't worry. That'll probably be the last form of.. intimacy.. I'll have. I tend to frighten men off. I like to think it's the fact I can probably beat most of them, so they are intimidated. But it could be that I'm just crazy.

Doc: You are scary... *he could be nice and tell she was fooling herself.. some guy would eventually get her, but he was feeling mean* And you are crazy...

Cytherea: You're still upset I stole your leg, aren't you? *grinned, his words not upsetting her like they once would have.*

Doc: Yes. Yes I am

Cytherea: Don't worry, I'm taking good care of it.

Doc: *he wasn't but she would believe he was regardless, so he might as well own it.* And just so you know.. this running around without clothes should stop.. cause you attract the wrong sort of attention.. *holds up a hand* unless you're going for that 'I'm a cheap hooker' look...

Cytherea: I don't think you've ever seen me without clothes, well, other than that time you stripped me in public. And yes, it did attract some attention, I broke some poor man's nose for his comment. He's lucky I wasn't using my full strength, his head might have cracked in half.
Doc: *He pulled out his wallet and offered a twenty* This enough? You know.. for the other night...

Cytherea: You're paying me, for a kiss? Gee, you really must think I am a hooker. *couldn't help but laugh once more.* Don't worry about it, I've enough money.

Doc: "Ok.. " He puts the money away and pockets the wallet. "SO you're just in it for the thrill.. huh, I know this one guy.. Kleiner.. you could rock his world.."

Cytherea: ''A virgin hooker. I'm not sure how that would work out.'' grinned, though she played along. ''I can certainly rock his world though, a little wrestling, let him think he's winning, and then bam, snap his neck. Sounds like a good night to me.'' obviously she was joking, unless the guy was a huge pervert, then she would snap his neck without a second thought.

Doc: "That's your tagline huh.. The Virgin Hooker.. Does have a kinky ring to it.. I will be sure to spread that around for ya.. you will have plenty of takers..."

Cytherea: ''Mm, if you can beat me in a fight, then you get the virginity.'' she laughed shaking her head. ''Don't you dare pass that around, I just got off the police radar, killing a lot of men would pop me right back on it.''

Doc: "Ya know.. we could make a mint.. I get the johns for you.. you beat the crap of them and take their money.. with a name like The Virgin Hooker,,.. I am see possibilities here..."

Cytherea: Her laughter increased as she shook her head. ''And what if someone actually bested me?''

Doc: "Easy.. " He snorts, "You'd have to put out.. though it would ruin your tagline.."

Doc: Then you would have to be the 'mostly virgin hooker'...

Cytherea: ''It's a good thing I'm not easy to beat then. Wanna find out?''

Cytherea: ''Bare handed this time. Think you could handle it?''

Doc: I dont wanna ruin your tagline.. You're money in the bank with that unpopped cherry

Cytherea: Oh please, you wouldn't be getting it. You can be the test subject to see how good I am at fighting.

Doc: I beat you.. and I get nothing? Why bother?

Cytherea: You make it sound like you want my virginity, Doc. *laughed softly, eying him.*

Doc: It's all about the payoff.. why do the work for no payoff?

Cytherea: Fun?

Doc: *opens the microwave* Drink your day old coffee wench.

Cytherea: *flashed him a sweet smile, before taking the coffee, taking a sip and then groaning softly.* Mmm.. coffee tastes sooo good. *now she was just being cruel.*

Doc: You know.. Sometimes I think I hate you.

Cytherea: *drank some more, moaning lowly.* You adore me, you said so before.

Doc: I lie.

Doc: *Inwardly he wanted the god damn coffee*

Cytherea: You're lying about lying? That's cold. *tried not to laugh as she drank her coffee, inhaling the scent.* You make a nice cup of coffee.

Doc: Thanks. *sigh*

Cytherea: *began to feel a little bad.* You should rethink my offer. You can take some of my blood, and go work on it, and see if you can drink and eat.

Doc: I'd be just like a junky then huh? No thanks.

Cytherea: Suit yourself. So, where's my muffin? *drank some more coffee.*

Doc: I'm standing right here.. Pookie...

Cytherea: Either you get me a muffin, or fork over a kiss, muffin. *tried not to laugh.*
Doc: *He leaned over, looking in her eyes, for a long second, his eyes questioning almost, quickly pecked her forehead.* There. Enough for you.

Cytherea: But.. I wanted my muffin.. *she gave a small pout. before decided to get some revenge as she groaned pleasurably from the taste of coffee.*

Doc: *he waited until she taking and sip, and tipped the bottom of the coffee cup up.*
Cytherea: *choked as the coffee spilt all over her face and dress, her eyes widening.* That was cold.. I can't walk home like this..

Doc: Take it off...*shrugs*

Cytherea: Well, go get me something to wear then.

Doc: hmm.. what do I have.. you know.. I think every thing is at the laundry.. huh what are the odds?

Cytherea: Take your shirt off then and give me it.. You owe me after all, for ruining my new dress.

Doc: I don't think so.. I like this shirt.

Cytherea: And I liked this dress, so fork over the shirt.

Doc: Nope. Not gonna happen. *winks*

Cytherea: Fine then, have it your way. *leaned over the counter, before she grabbed the front of his shirt, giving a yank and hearing the fabric rip. Ah, she did love having a lot of strength.* Aw. Too bad.

Doc: *at which point, he grabbed the neckline of her dress and gave it a thorough yank, grinning when it rent.* Damn.. sucks to be you.

Cytherea: *used the rest of the coffee in her cup to throw it against the front of his pants, it was cold, so not damage would be done.* And it sucks to be you.

Doc: But, unlike you.. I'm home.. you're not. *grins*

Cytherea: Well, it looks like I'm sleeping here tonight. You can have the couch.

Doc: I get the couch..? are you sure you want to do that?

Cytherea: Why not? Do you have an uncomfortable bed?

Doc: Yes or no?

Cytherea: *she stared at him for a moment, before laughing.* Sure, why not.

Doc: I dont have a bed... At least not here..

Cytherea: Who doesn't have a bed?

Doc: I have one.. just not here... I usually sleep closer to the lab.

Cytherea: *laughed once more.* Then I'm going to steal the couch, you probably don't sleep, so it works out.

Doc: I will get the couch.. You can share it.. But I will have the couch.

Cytherea: Sure, you have blankets at least, right?

Doc: Sleeping bag...

Cytherea: I'll have to forgo blankets then. What do you have?

Doc: Sleeping bag.. what else you want?

Cytherea: Unless you want me using you as a pillow, do you have a pillow?

Doc: Just use the arm rest.. its what I do..

Doc: Or.. you could .. oh I don't know.. leave and buy one?

Cytherea: Oh yes, leave with my dress in this state? Great idea. No, I'll endure until tomorrow.

Doc: Umm.. ok.

Cytherea: You could not sleep tonight and just let me curl up comfortably. *she teased.

Doc: I could.. *he nods* But I wont.

Cytherea: Alright then. Lucky for you I don't kick in my sleep.

Doc: And I sleep in the buff..

Cytherea: I'll make sure not to look then.

Doc: I don't care if you look

Cytherea: Fine then, I'll look, I'll look a lot. *she wouldn't really.*

Doc: Knock your out..

Cytherea: Just don't be kicking me off the couch.

Doc: Well dont hog it and I wont have too..

[Cytherea]

Cytherea: No promises.

Doc: Then you may end up on the floor.

Cytherea: I'll be sure to drag you with me.

Doc: You can always take the sleeping bag and have the floor all to yourself..

Cytherea: Or you could.

Doc: I like my couch. You're the uninvited guest.. You take the floor

Cytherea: It's your fault I'm here, without a dress.

Doc: I didn't make you come..

Cytherea: Did you word that intentionally... *tried not to laugh.*

Doc: No.. but wasn't trying either..

Cytherea: So. No more coffee?

Doc: You have a gift card.. *eyes*

Cytherea: It's not here.

Doc: Yea.. too bad.. *winks*

Cytherea: Oh come onnn. Just one more cup? *pouts*

Doc: *Absently reaches for tear in the dress, snagging it, and pulls it taut, but not to the point it will rip further. Yet.* No.

Cytherea: *mirrored his actions, keeping a hold on his torn shirt, just in case.* Aw, come on.
Cytherea: Just oneeeee?

Doc: *yanks, hears a long rip* No *makes a kissy face*

Cytherea: *once again mirrored his actions, ripping his shirt as well, making a kissy face back.* Pleaseee, you make such nice coffee. I won't even ask for anymore for a little while.

Doc: No.. *shakes his head and frowns sadly like hes talking to a toddler* You cant have any more.

Cytherea: *completely yanked the shirt from his body, making the fabric unsaveable as she set it on the table and relaxed in her chair.* Fine then, Mr Grinch.

Doc: *and as she moved away, the fabric he still held, stayed in his hand.. not on her body.* Nice... *wolf whistles*

Cytherea: I could say the same, but I won't. *grinned.*

Doc: *reaches into his pants pocket and pulls his phone, and starts texting, a smirk on his face he taps with his thumb.*

Cytherea: Whats with that face.. *eyed him.*

Doc: *Doc was horrible at texting, he just wanted to pretend like it while he took a photo.* Nothing.. Though.. Should I ask Pi if you have permission to sleep over? *grinning*

Cytherea: *flashed him a smile, humor twinkling in her eyes.* Sure thing, grandpa. Why not tell her to bring me some pj's too, whilst I go stick my hair in pigtails.

Doc: Ok.. *texts for real this time, sending Pi a photo message of a mostly nude from wait up Cyth, with the words.. 'she wants to sleep over...'*

Cytherea: Oh, and tell her to bring some coffee.

Doc: Done.

Doc: Sure thing Pookie... *texts again*

Cytherea: Great! At least someone will get me coffee.

Doc: *is texting, "She says she not leaving until you bring coffee..."

Cytherea: Well, is she bringing the coffee and clothes?

Doc: Look give her time to respond.. hell if I know if she can make out my short hand...

Cytherea: This would have been fine, if you hadn't thrown my coffee over me.

Doc: You should learn to have quiet sex with your coffee then...

Cytherea: Don't be jealous.

Doc: *receives a text* *reads and replies*

Doc: Looks like you're out of luck kid..

Doc: *Doc winces at the last text* I don't think she's coming...

Cytherea: What, she's not going to bring me coffee and clothes? What did she say?

Doc: *He looked at her seriously* She said to be gentle with you.. no .. careful.. that's the word...

Cytherea: *appeared confused.* Careful with me? *stared for a moment, before she narrowed her gaze.* What exactly did you say..

Doc: *closed his phone and pocketed it.* You were here.,. could she come.. she said no.. she wasnt interested in my sex life and to be gentle...no careful with you.

Cytherea: What exactly did you say or do that made her think we were having sex? *continued to stare.*

Doc: The truth.. You were here.. you ripped my clothes off.. and you wanted to sleep with me. *shrugs carelessly*

Cytherea: And you say I'm demented.

Doc: Did you rip my clothes?

Cytherea: I did. After you ruined my own, not out of a sudden sexual desire to have you between my legs.

Doc: Did you or did you not, ask me not to kick you off the couch where I will be sleeping?
*smirks* and.. are you or are you not.. here? I told the truth. Since shes not coming I should call E...

Cytherea: I did. After you ruined my own, not out of a sudden sexual desire to have you between my legs. You're seelping on the floor.

Doc: Oh no I am not.

Cytherea: Yes you are.

Cytherea: Either by choice, or you'll be unconscious. *smiled sweetly, though it was evident she was deadly serious.*

Doc: Or you will...

Cytherea: Ooo? Lets do it, old man.

Doc: *Doc pushed off the counter.. and walked past her and dropped to the couch, and stretched out.*

Cytherea: You charge Doc down and attack them with your bare hands.
You pull them off their feet and throw them, breaking their leg ]

Cytherea: *lifted herself from the chair she was on, before she walked towards the couch, offering him a sugary sweet smile before she yanked him up and tossed him in some direction, the sound of him hitting a wall could be heard as she took her seat on the couch.*

Doc: You charge at Cytherea, your claws swiping at them wildly as they backtrack. Although you land some solid blows, you are pushed back and do not deal any real damage.

Doc: *Since She backed off.. He retook his couch*

Cytherea: You engage Doc, trading melee blows, but the bruises heal as quickly as you can deal them. ]

Doc: you charge Cytherea down and attack them with your bare hands. You pull them off their feet and throw them, breaking their leg.

Cytherea: *once again yanked him off the couch, trading blows, though nothing landed.* You're going to get a cracked skull, is the couch worth it?

Doc: *Throws her off* My ******* place!

Cytherea: You basically told Pi we were *******! *shoved him again, before attacking.*

Cytherea: You engage Doc, trading melee blows, but the bruises heal as quickly as you can deal them. ]

Doc: You charge at Cytherea, your claws swiping at them wildly as they backtrack. Although you land some solid blows, you are pushed back and do not deal any real damage.

Cytherea: You charge at Doc, your claws swiping at them wildly as they backtrack. Although you land some solid blows, you are pushed back and do not deal any real damage.

Doc: You pounce on Cytherea, clawing at them and ripping their clothing. After a brief wrestle, you disengage your foe, who remains unharmed.

Doc: *huffs* and now.. you're completely topless...

Cytherea: *used his torn top to cover herself, glaring at him.* Even more reason I should have the couch. *to prove her point, she took her seat on the thing, throwing her bare legs over the other end.*

Doc: *sat on her legs* I've slept in worse places.

Cytherea: *wiggled her limbs out from under him, before throwing them over his lap. With that done, she reached for one of the many books laying around the place to occupy herself.* I bet you have.

Doc: *Doc just crossed his arms over his chest and closed his eyes*

Cytherea: *flicked through the many pages of the book, gazing over the information and photographs present, before she set it down and reached for another.*

Doc: *seems quite content resting there*

Cytherea: *moved her leg, knocking it against his broken leg as she continued the task of reading.*

Doc: *ignores her*

Cytherea: *began to hum, hopefully irritating him, after all, he had done something to give Pi the impression they were having sex.*

Doc: *the phones vibrates in his pocket. He wriggles it out of his pocket, reads and texts, "Yep trying to sleep with her now.. shes a noisy one though.. some guys like that..."

Cytherea: *dug the heel of her foot into his knee harshly, snorting at his comment before she continued to read quietly.*

Doc: *slides his phone away, and goes back to ignoring her.*

Cytherea: *hummed some more as she picked a new book up, repeating the previous process, whilst shaking her foot idly.*

Doc: *Even though he ignored her, there was something enjoyable about her trying to irk while he rested. His face relaxed as he settled even more*

Cytherea: *although she was trying to annoy him, she too was becoming relaxed and eventually she slipped off to sleep, the book falling from her grasp.*

[Doc]

‹Doc› *texts for real this time, sending Pi a photo message of a mostly nude from wait up Cyth, with the words.. 'she wants to sleep over...'*

‹Doc› *texts* she says shes not leaving until you bring coffee...

‹Pi dArtois› [Texts] Why are you sending me nude photographs of Cyth?

‹Doc› *text* shes at my place.. You should come get her.

‹Doc› *texts* She threatening to sleep with me.. she seems adamant. she's your step kid.

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Give me a break. You're a grown man and she's what? Under half your age? Deal with it yourself and stop acting like a child.

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Why you think this is appropriate for me to know or get involved in is unclear. But she's been through enough, so if you are going to let her down. Do it with some grace please.

‹Doc› *text* Did I mention she ripped my shirt off.. But if you insist.

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] Why are you even telling me this?

‹Doc› *text* E's kid. He never answers my texts. But no sweat..

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] You're an adult. Deal with it like an adult. For hells sake, you're not in High School anymore. Have you lost your mind? Don't get me involved in your private life and don't send me half naked pictures of women who are throwing themselves at you.

‹Pi dArtois› [Text] And be careful with Cyth.

‹Doc› *text* "Yep trying to sleep with her now.. shes a noisy one though.. some guys like that..."

‹Pi dArtois› *silence as a response*

[Lancaster]

‹Elliot dArtois› The portal room. That’s all it had ever been called. It was a strange place, really. A room full of doors. There was a beat up old armchair that Elliot had found somewhere—he couldn’t even recall where. A thing that had once been ornate; was still ornate, still retained a bit of traditional character. He’d dragged into the portal room to add a bit of colour. A bit of comfort in a place used primary for rituals. For crafting. For hacking. For travel. A peaceful room, really; a family hub. A cog at the centre of everything.

Elliot sat in that armchair, lost in thought. One arm was draped over the edge, the other palm supporting Elliot’s head, fingers tangled up in his awry hair. He was dressed for business; navy blue long-sleeved shirt beneath black jacket, black slacks, black shoes. His legs were sprawled, and his gaze unfocused. He was preoccupied, pondering this room and all its complexities. The things that they would do to keep it safe. The things that they had done. The people that they had called in.

They. Not he. They. He hadn’t been consulted. And maybe there was a good reason for it. As he released a breath, a small, hummed noted reverberated in his throat. He may have looked idle. He was everything but. As per usual, emotion reigned supreme. And he wasn’t really staring into space. Instead, he was imagining his soul as a vast temple full of rooms. And he was trying to separate his emotions, trying to put them all away, nice and neat. Wrap them up in steady bows so that they would not get the best of him.

[[http://www.homebake.com.au/200...sey.jpg for OOC reference. ]]


‹Pi dArtois› Pi was dragging. She didnt' have anything left in her tank. It had all happened so fast she had run on automatic, swining between phone calls with Aidan, Doc, Asteria and then correspondence with Prudence. To more on the forum and even more on her cell phone. She couldn't say she missed this although she realised she had a talent for it. She might always have a talent for this sort of thing. The leopard, and she was one, a top of the food chain predator, couldn’t change its spots.

She faced their problem with a detachment she had shown in her previous employment. It was different this time because the people she was talking to had an emotional investment in what happened. SHE had an emotional investment in it. And Pi was pragmatic. She always had been. Pi understood that there couldn’t have been another solution to his problem. You couldn’t negotiate with anyone who enthralled a person, for the sole purpose of attacking another and then killing then when their usefulness was over.

Cherry had made as much a statement with that act as any other that had come before. It had told Pi the stripper would have done anything, anything to exact blood for a wrong she believed done to her. And the only way, the only way you could respond to that level of commitment was a show of reciprocal force. Swinging into the portal room she saw Elliot in his chair and avoided meeting his gaze, instead she walked by him throwing her knapsack onto the crafting table before turning around to face him, her gaze steady.

She was dressed as she was when the night started, jeans, comfortable half boots and a slouchy shirt that billowed at the waist. Digging her hands into pocket she spoke, quietly, feeling like a child about to be chastised. “It had to happen like it did Elliot. There was no other way.”


‹Elliot dArtois› Elliot was aware of Pi's arrival, but he did not move. Once upon a time he might have tensed. Might have physically retaliated from the confrontation he knew was about to take place. But it didn't have to be that way, he knew. Because it wasn't just anger that he felt. It wasn't that he thought what they'd done was wrong. To say that would mean he didn't care - that he wouldn't have done all he could have to protect the family. But the way things stood with him and his own childer, he began to wonder - had they excluded him because they had concluded that he didn't care? That they shouldn't even try? He could feel Pi's eyes on him. He blinked, and turned only slightly to look at her. "And it'll keep happening the same way. She'll come back each time more furious than the last. She'll keep attacking. You'll keep killing her. What’s the point?" he asked. He didn't swear. His voice was smooth, like a good old whiskey. "But sometimes I think--and if you're going to go to them anyway--you should join Tytonidae. You're clearly that bloodthirsty."

‹Pi dArtois› The last stung but she didn’t flinch. What was the sense, it was true. She had no problem with this side of it, never had. But he said it because he was taking pot shots and she knew it. Just as she knew he did so because he didn’t agree with her about how it happened. “I am good at this. I always have been. Cherry is like a puppy, who needs training. She bites your hand, you teach her the consequences of what will happen and you have to keep doing it until she learns. It wasn’t my first choice and if I could have avoided it I would have.” Pi wondered what he was thinking, sitting there, his hands in his hair and she wondered exactly what he thought of her. She wanted him to see, that this, what happened this night was the only way this could have been handled. She suspected, he wasn’t going to see it that way.

[Pi dArtois]

‹Elliot dArtois› He wished that he had some plan. Wished that there was some solution other than what had taken place. Maybe there was. Maybe he shouldn't have this conversation with Pi right now. Maybe he should take the initiative and talk to Cherry and Prudence himself. He narrowed his eyes, chewed on his tongue. Finally, then, he moved--like a statue waking up from the dead. There was a sharp intake of breath as he leaned forward and rubbed his face with his hands. "That's fine, Pi. I can't really fault you - you can't let her get away with it. You can't really get angry at her for killing off her own thrall, either, because if the human had lived, wouldn't you have killed it, too? You've done it before, killed humans just for knowing, without questioning," he shook his head. He was getting off course with that train of thought. He closed his eyes, delegated the emotions into their proper rooms again. "I'm not questioning your ability to protect the family. But go to Tytonidae? After what they made you do? After how bloody uncomfortable we were in that meeting, hunting Robert? Or was that just me? I don't think they have any right to our business."

‹Pi dArtois› "I wanted her found, and they can find her. " amswered, her thoughts still centered on what Cherry did. There was no way to prove it, not now that they’d killed the stripper, but if it clucked like a chicken, squawked like one and laid an egg you didn’t walk around in a state of self stated ignorance just because someone hasn’t pointed at it and told you ‘oh look, there’s a chicken’. But she concentrated on Velveteen’s words. Did Pi hate Velveteen for what she'd made Pi do? Did she hate a woman for using the one thing guaranteed to bring their target down? Like Pi had done tonight to take out Cherry? There was a reason her and Velveteen had been friends. There was a good reason why Velveteen had trusted her to ref The Cage and why Pi knew she could call the woman for something like this. Personal was personal, business was business and Pi no more blamed Velveteen for using her as a weapon then she blamed the bullet in her own gun. "Habren would have helped, if she was around. I'm sure of it, but she wasn't. Velveteen was. Do you really want our family to train to this? To become good at what Ty is good at?"

‹Elliot dArtois› Elliot shrugged, heart sinking. "So all that stuff I went through with Velveteen - learning how to track, just like she does. Not useful at all to you?" he asked. He shook his head, didn't wait for the answer. "It's not about what I want. It's about what they want. I'm sure if we put it to a vote, they'd be more than willing to train to be like Ty. But we wouldn't be the same as them, would we? We would only do what they do to keep our own safe. Not for the ..." he paused, kept himself from swearing "... thrill of it."

‹Pi dArtois› Pi reached up and rubbed the place between her brows. "I think we should and no I don't think that was wasted. I think it's necessary, it's why I said what I did on the forum... I just wasn't sure what you thought of it. "

‹Elliot dArtois› "... And were you going to ask, or were you just going to continue like you did? Just... leave me out of any blood hunt because you're not sure what I might think?" he stopped, then, and stood. He was coming across far more harsh than he intended. He approached Pi and laid his hands on her shoulders, rubbed her arms reassuringly. "Look, I'm not as sensitive as I was. I get it. I don't like it, but I get it. Violence is the only language..." you people know, he was going to say, but stopped himself just in time. He faltered, continued: "...these people know. But nor do I want Tytondae thinking we owe them anything. That they're doing us favours. I don't agree with what they do. Not one ******* iota. We can do these things on our own. Without them."


‹Pi dArtois› "Then we need to get better at what we do because right now, we're not up to it. I was the only one out of the four d'Artois present who was fast enough to hit. Ty move fast and if we want to get even half that efficient, we need to work on it. Can you train the people to track like Vel showed us?" Stepping forward she closed the space between them and laid the flat of her cheek against his chest.


‹Elliot dArtois› "Sure. And we can... maybe we can organise a family hunt. A practice thing. Even if it's one on one - live battle, training weapons. Ask Velveteen for advice, that's fine. I don't care. But if she's going to bring Tytonidae into it, I don't want it," his jaw clenched, even as his arms wrapped around Pi's slender frame. Phoenix was in Tydonidae. He didn't want that red-head to feel as if she had more to hold over his head. Didn't want her, specifically, parading around him telling him how much he owed her. Not again. Not ever.


‹Pi dArtois› "Then this weekend, if we can. We'll organise something?" She let herself get wrapped up, her nose finding the soft spot in the curve of his neck. "We should get them together while the necessity for it is still high in their minds. And we won't have to use Tytonidae, if we can do this ourselves."