The Buzz [Hive Interactions]

[Indigo]

* Indigo watched the scene of a man's best friend and his companion dart down the hallway out of view. As Kaspars voice raised and commands were delivered like a general had stepped in, Indigo nuzzled the small space of petal soft skin between Will’s lower jaw and tiny shoulder. A soft vibration of her lips delivered a rolling of raspberry sounds. A giggle so sweet that only a child could release it echoed and with it Indigo was laughing as well.

While Kaspar was out of view Indigo couldn't resist looking at the pudgy little hands and fingers as they wiggled and batted at the air. She captured one and kissed the center of its palm. Will was a presence she instantly welcomed and just as quickly found impossible to imagine being without. Her long fingers curled at each side of the squirming body and lifted him up to bounce above her as she looked up at him with a huge grin.

“Look at you! So handsome.” She allowed the weight of the child to drop suddenly while safe in her hold. Will’s minimal free fall came just short of her face. His giggles erupted and his hands immediately were weaved into her hair. “Oooh!” She nibbled at his busy hands until they released their hold. “Such a sweet little man.”

The sounds of Kaspar making his way back caught both of their attention. Bucket once again was taking the walk of defeat on the man's heels. It had become predictable. Once the bear was safely deposited beyond the canines reach he found his spot and for the moment Kaspar found his. The suggestion of a movie was fitting. Curling up with Kaspar and Will for a couple hours sounded perfect. It was an invitation she would not refuse.

“With you...yes.” Indigo leaned over and pressed a kiss to Kaspar’s cheek.

[Adley Reed]

<Adley Reed> Kaspar, tonight, had been a lot more handsy than he had been in the near past -- the kiss to the back of the neck, now the embrace that didn't feel at all half-hearted. Adley slipped -- he thought it was like old time, the way he nuzzled, the way his teeth dragged across the flesh of Kaspar's neck. But then he remembered. Two hands rested on Kaspar's shoulders as he pushed him back gently, stepped away. "Twice in one night. Are you sure there's nothing on your mind?"


* Kaspar gave a huff as Adley gently urged him away, he was quite content to have lowered his forehead to the man's shoulder, to close his eyes and enjoy the comfort of a familiar body to lean on. "No. I'm not."


<Adley Reed> Adley arched a brow. He, too, had things on his mind. He hadn't had the chance to enlighten Kaspar on recent events before, but Kaspar's woes seemed weightier. Adley wasn't even in woe, he was just incredulous. "So. Spill, then."


<Kaspar> His eyes rolled up, making a dismissive sound in the back of his throat. His gaze rested on Adley only a few moments before shifting away, as if hoping for a distraction. "Spill what? What's up with you, Adley? I'd like to hear." His smile was non-committal, the kind that only turned up the corners of his mouth by force.


<Adley Reed> Adley narrowed his eyes, watching Kaspar's movements. It didn't feel right, being apart. But Kaspar had asked that there be no awkwardness, he had drawn the line. If there was no more sex, Adley didn't think the familiar intimacy was something he wanted, either. He was trying to respect the request. "You said you weren't sure there's nothing on your mind. So spill, Kas. What's on your mind?"


<Kaspar> There was a clear reluctance to share, he wasn't interested in talking about himself overly but Adley seemed unwilling to let up. "Came out to the rest of the family."


<Adley Reed> The news, of course, had been everywhere. Adley didn't know whether he was down here in the catacombs because it was habit, or because he was hiding. He didn't think it was the latter -- more than ever, the Apiary could prove useful. And he didn't have anyone to come out to, so he hadn't thought what it might be like for those who did. "Aaaah," he said, watching Kaspar with more care. "And it didn't go well?"


<Kaspar> His laughter was a sharp sound, long fingers curling around Adley's shoulders and giving the man a brief shake. "Oh, Adley, it was fine. Vater was a dick, as always and Kit decided to jump on board with useless, shallow remarks. Mama was worried, and Klaus was standing behind her like some kind of sentinel staring daggers at Nik and Kit." He sighed, releasing the man's shoulders, drawing his arms back to wrap lazily around his own waist. "Normal family discussion about me, really."


<Adley Reed> Adley listened, his own blue gaze sharp as he tried to understand, as he tried to interpret that laugh that wasn't really a laugh. He barely moved as he was shook, a stoic block exercising a selfless regard for another. It was still a strange skin to wear, he was still trying to figure out how to move in it. "Are you relieved, then, that they finally know? Are you worried about them?"


<Kaspar> Kas raised a brow, shoulders hitched in a shrug. "Well, as long as Nik doesn't go with his initial response of wanting to use it as some kind of publicity stunt or trying to convince me to jump in front of cameras and make a big deal about it... They'll be fine. Mama wants to visit, Klaus is planning to and trying to convince her to stay home... Enough about me. You? Adley?"


<Adley Reed> Adley wondered whether he wouldn't have sided with Nik. Kaspar had a fuckload of fans, and if they worshipped him, they would love the idea that he was a vampire. If more people regarded it as something fascinating rather than something horrific, it would be better for the vampires in the long run. Rather than voice these thoughts, yet, Adley just cleared his throat and took a breath. "Nothing, really. My sire's sire sent me a message expressing concern. I wanted to go shove the phone down her throat," he said with a shrug. He could feel his sharp teeth when he spoke. He tried to urge them to go away.


<Kaspar> A genuine grin took up residence on Kas's face, genuinely amused by the imagery. "I have to be honest, I am impressed you didn't. What did they have to say, hm? How are you? Let me guess, they just jumped into discussing their agenda."


<Adley Reed> Adley went so far as to pull out his phone and pull up the message. He read it out, verbatim: "Talk to me, my dear ones. They know about us now. Text me, find me. Just let me know you are safe. Please. Clearly I thought she had the wrong number. And I told her so. She replied and said she was glad I was well, and told me to be safe. I haven't replied," he said, laughing under his breath. "I mean, what do I say to that? That would have been helpful four ******* months ago?" he shook his head, still incredulous.

[Kaspar]

<Kaspar> Kaspar's shoulder lifted again in that idle hitch, as if someone had tugged at strings attached to them only to let them fall, discarded for some better toy. "I would have said something to that meaning, ja. Why not? They left you to learn from others, they can not now claim you as a dear one. You are dear, but not to them. **** them, Adley." The man had seemed to take it quite well, better than could be expected and Kaspar felt an odd sense of pride. "How DO you feel about it?"


<Adley Reed> "Basically, exactly like that. I'm not going to scurry under her wing now she wants the comfort of company. I found my own way and have my own sources of knowledge. I honestly find it kind of amusing," he said with a shrug of his own. It didn't affect him as much as it could have. Which said something about how comfortable he was in his own skin, now. In the home he had claimed. "They won't claim me, no," he said with that slight grin of his.


<Kaspar> He made a mockingly dismayed noise, fist finding its way to gently knock against Adley's chest. "Dummkopf... I meant this whole unveiling, secrecy destroyed, uh... ****, Situation? Yeah, that works." He waved his hand dismissively, the exact same that had only just been knocking into his friend. "I admit to being unsure, I want to do something to make it better for us but I just don't know if it is right. You know? Actually, I was going to call you, see if you would come over to the Studio tomorrow. I'm inviting people to come and discuss it."


<Adley Reed> "Way to be clear, Kas," he said, shoving Kaspar back, though gently. Playfully. Careful to cross his arms loosely over his chest again. "Honestly, vampires treat each other worse than humans do," he said. At least, in his own experience, he'd made more friends with humans than he had with vampires. Vampires slaughter their own kind, and they don't really need help. "I think it's better if we find away to work together. To make ourselves more accessible," he said. It was the vague idea he had, which he would present to Indigo -- to open the Apiary up, to invite humans in who wanted to know things, to meet vampires who would not hurt them. To help them understand. It would open them up to danger, too. "There are risks, but I think they're worth it? I can swing by -- we can talk about it more tomorrow, if you want."


<Kaspar> Kaspar fake stumbled back a step, making a wounded face at the shove though quickly recovered to echo Adley's posture. "My feeling too, but we will all be painted with the same ghastly colour, stuck with the same name tag that reads "evil" if we aren't careful. I've heard rumours of people being pro-vamp, some wanting to meet one... Probably seduce one." He ran a tongue over a canine, "Stupid. I also heard about people who want to segregate us, or make us wear identification. I'm German, Adley, I know how poorly that ends and I am not about to watch that happen again even if some deserve it." The sigh that escaped him seemed to deflate him somewhat, but he covered it with an agreeable smile. "We'll talk more tomorrow. I should get home, promised my Wife i'd be back at a reasonable hour. She's worried, but she is sensible."


<Adley Reed> Adley nodded, his tongue reflecting the movement of Kaspar's. He'd tried boosting his own blood again but for whatever reason, he was still thirsty. He'd outdone the use of magical energy, and needed to go about nourishment the usual way. "Moves need to be made, I think, to keep people calm," he said, though he could elaborate the next night. He nodded, and glanced toward the hall that led to the exit. He might find a random vampire on the way out, or he'd see how Indigo felt when he tracked her down. "Walk you out?"


<Kaspar> There was a time when he'd have done something more obvious about the way Adley's tongue traced his teeth in echo of Kaspar's, would address his hunger with his own of a different variety but all he could do now was make an offer that he knew would likely be declined. "Adley.." A touch of reprimand, hand gripping at the other man's shirt, using it as leverage to tuck him against his side as they moved towards the exit. "You have to eat, don't be weird. Please? Just... Come on."


<Adley Reed> Adley shook his head. "I don't think I can give back what I take," he said. It was a courtesy he'd learned to give -- if feeding from another vampire, he'd be sure to heal them in the way he could heal himself. It was just nice to have some fresh blood every once in a while. "I can go home. We have blood bags. I can find Indigo, we'll make a meal of it," he said with a flashy grin, those canines prominent and yet non-menacing. "I'm not a poor starving orphan. I'm okay," he said with a laugh, leading them through that hole in the wall that led them back out into the grimy, humid sewer system.


<Kaspar> There was the slightest flinch, but he nodded, knocking a kiss against the man's temple. "Fine, but you don't have to give it back... The offer stands. Let's get out of this damp pit of despair, we've got beautiful women waiting on us."

[Adley Reed]

<KASPAR> A white lion, a literal white lion strolls over and sits beside them. The big cat casually headbutts Adley`s legs.

<ADLEY REED> Was in the middle of sliding his hand somewhere intimate before he was nudged. Startled, he instinctively moves in front of Indigo. "...what the?"

<INDIGO> Squeals and jumps behind Adley. Her hands curling around the back of his arms. Startled blue orbs peek over. "It likes you?" Nudges him forward ready to plan an escape.

<KASPAR> The lion seemed to huff, making a grumbling sound like an irritated domestic cat. The sharp blue eyes shifted to see where the hand was going looking oddly unimpressed for a lion.

<ADLEY REED> Adley felt himself pushed -- if the lion were vicious he might wonder what Indigo`s plan was. But it seemed anything but. Adley just tsked at the woman before tentatively dropping to his haunches in front of the animal, reaching out a hand. "...hey there."

I N D I G O
Indigo watches Adley drop to his knees to greet the big cat and wonders how hungry the lion will be. She should do something but what? She couldn`t get bucket to give up a shoe so what the hell would she be able to do with the massive animal. The natural predator. She blinked slowly, feeling any color she had left in her body slowly fade."


K A S P A R
The glorious beast shook his large head, the white lion's mane moving with the motion. Looking between them he made another of those strange, deep grumbling sounds frustrated he couldn't express himself or speak who he was. Couldn't they see it? No, of course not, who expected a guy to turn into a damn lion. Kaspar sure didn't. The lion began to pace, stalking back and forth, stilling when Adley lowered into a crouch and taking the advantage to headbutt him firmly in the shoulder.


I N D I G O
Indigo watched the beautiful but very likely deadly beast move back and forth. "He isnt sure who to eat. I can tell." Her indigo orbs tracked him as if she had options. "Know what..." She stayed close to the wall. At least it was one spot it couldn't get her from....behind. "Have a weapon part or a bone. Toss a bone! Maybe it will want to play...if it doesnt it could be rabid." She was babbling. Her curls seemingly frizzing up more with the stress. "Check its mouth...is it foaming? YOu should know these things Adley. You seen them before."


A D L E Y R E E D
The lion completely ignored Adley's outstretched hand and instead got closer -- these big predators always go for the neck. Adley tensed -- but the animal didn't look vicious. It looked friendly. Like someone's pet. The nudge, in the end, was playful, and Adley laughed. "Indigo, he's tame. He's not rabid," he tsked. "I wonder what he's doing down here?" he asked Indigo in wonderment, though he didn't take his eyes from the big cat. He sunk his long fingers into the white fur of the mane. "There's something about his eyes..." he muttered, peering a little closer.


I N D I G O
Indigo narrowed her own eyes. "Yes, there is. You keep in their focus. Keep it distracted. I can find something for it to eat." She perked up looking for the nearest walking piece of rotted meat and skeleton. "Pretty sure something should be coming hissing and dragging any moment." As Adley leaned in she felt her face sour up in confusion. "You crazy?"


K A S P A R
If an animal could roll it's eyes this one sure as hell did in Indigo's direction. Was she seriously accusing him of being rabid? No, he was not rabid, just irritated and a perfect specimen. He stared back at Adley hopefully, tilting his head towards the woman, huffing out a heavy breath that resembled a sigh.


A D L E Y R E E D
The lion wasn't perturbed by Adley's touch; the Necromancer took courage, and relaxed completely. "He, Indigo. Not it. He -- " he ruffled the mane with his fingers. Male lions had manes, female ones did not. There was no doubt as to the animal's sex. It was only as Adley's fingers gently slid over the lion's ear, as he threw himself into petting the animal that he realised his place. It seemed odd to think such a majestic creature could be affected by Adley's curse, but regardless, he snatched his hand away, holding it close to himself. "I'm serious..." he said, still watching the lion's face.


K A S P A R
Murmured in contentment at the petting, a low rumbling purr starting as he was soothed by it. Adley wouldn't let Indigo stab him with a stick, or throw zombies at him hoping he'd eat them. Gross, he wasn't eating zombies, besides he ate not long ago before he shifted. This wasn't the first time it had happened luckily, but he was still adjusting and hadn't exactly told many people about it. The lion huffed loudly at Adley's hand pulling away, pushing his head forward once to nuzzle and snuffle at the man's face and neck.


I N D I G O
Indigo deadpanned. "I know that a lion has a mane, Adley. I caught on to that much while at the zoo." Was she out of line having that instant fear coursing through her veins that was signaling to run, save *** and all those things that are supposed to be normal fight or flight signals in self-preservation? Fine she was guilty. "Okay, so 'He' could be one of those that got loose from some wild life preserve. You can't take every lion you encounter as friendly. I would like to see you pull that out in the south Sahara."

[Kaspar]

A D L E Y R E E D
Adley laughed. "Yeah, in south Sahara the lion wouldn't have nudged me, it would have tried biting the leg off instead," he said. Of course he'd been taught to fear the lions, but he'd learned to respect them, too. He knew that they could face extinction, and he wouldn't go kill every one he encountered, if he was still there, if he'd grown into a man in Africa rather than Canada. "I don't think we have to worry about him hurting us, Indigo. We have to figure out what to do with him. How the **** did he get down here? An escaped lion doesn't just... wander into the catacombs..." he said. He frowned at the lion, then, a reprimand issued as the lion tried to get in close again. "It's not good for you, man," he said, pushing himself into a standing position again. "Where did you come from?" he asked, as if the lion could answer.


K A S P A R
There he went again, rolling his eyes and shoving impatiently at Adley, prowling closer to Indigo in the process. His tail flicked in irritation, swatting at Adley's legs as he pushed between the pair. His head nudged, as if trying to point with his nose towards the exit. Where had he come from? Well, he couldn't really answer. He was trying to shift back, he hadn't meant to down here. A thought struck him, that he'd been holding his phone, and no doubt it was where he'd shifted. The lion strutted forwards and edged his way around a corner, only pausing to peer back at them to ensure they followed.


I N D I G O
Indigo placed her hands on her hips assessing the reactions between the two interacting. How did she get to be the bad guy in this? What happened to the woman who ignored the signs she had and jumped into the polar bear cage in Cinncinati because the voices in her head said it wanted her to go swim with it. What did it get her? A chomp in the back and a hell of a lot of fines. She watched and waited to see if the lion spoke up to Adley. If it did she was pretty sure Adley's would be a choclate like blur of speed leaving her *** behind.


A D L E Y R E E D
It was amusing to watch this lion act like... more like a household dog, than anything else. He craved attention, until he didn't anymore. Until he padded off and paused. Was he waiting for them to follow? "C'mon, Indie," he said, tossing her a grin as he glanced her way. It was like an adventure. He jogged to catch up, slowing as he neared the lion. Waiting to see if the creature was, indeed, trying to lead them somewhere.


K A S P A R
Kaspar nodded his approval as Adley neared, making his way around the corner fully and up into another dark, echoing chamber. The proud creature found upon the ground a leather jacket, quickly stripped along with a shirt and boots when he'd felt the shifting happening. Jeans had barely survived, there was a set of claw rips over one thigh. Beside it all a phone, which Kaspar pushed at with his paw, hoping Adley or Indigo would get the idea.


I N D I G O
Indigo watched Adley jog off like it was a case of man and his new best friend hitting the suburbian streets heading to the dog park for some frisbee toss. "Serious?" Well, now that it progressed to this point she seemed to have two choices. Stay back and look at empty space while she worried what happened to her sire or she could do the proper thing and go see what ends up happening. "Fine but I want some circus peanuts out of this." She caught up to Adley but still kept a safe distance behind.


A D L E Y R E E D
Adley wasted no time ducking down to swipe the phone from the floor of the catacombs. It looked familiar. Really ******* familiar. And as he pushed the home button and the screen gleamed to life, he understood why. "Kas..." he said, showing the picture to Indigo who'd reluctantly followed at his heels. Adley turned his attention to the clothes, discarded, and then to the lion. The lion had nudged at the phone. Why had the lion done that? He clearly wasn't being playful, thinking it was some toy. "This is just really weird..." he said, unable to keep the hint of concern from his tone.


I N D I G O
Indigo eyes widened and looked at the clothing. It was likely Kaspar's and it was a relief to find no blood on it. The lion was snow white with no signs of recent dining so she looked at Adley perplexed. The cellphone in his hand confirmed it. "Call Sig or Grey?" She put her hands into her hair and nervously bunched up her fingers. "Think it...He...scared Boo shitless and he bolted off so fast he left his clothes behind?"


K A S P A R
Huffed indignantly, a rumbling growl low in his chest, the lion pacing impatiently. His nose nudged beneath the jacket, as if he could get into it, maybe trying to put his clothes on would help the shift back. Why was this so difficult for him? His control over his abilities largely came from his emotions and the control over them, he just needed to focus. Right? He dropped down on his haunches, resting his large head upon the clothing pile. This might take a while.


A D L E Y R E E D
Adley stared at the phone in his hand. He swiped at the home screen only to be asked for a pin code, which Adley did not have. Rather than reach for his own phone, he gave a low laugh. He was still watching the lion and the strange way he acted, the way he lay down on the clothes as if ... as if what? "Crazy... no," he dismissed the thought, before it came back again. "I mean all the things we're capable of, you don't think....?" he pointed to the lion, to the clothes. "Kaspar is...?" he gestured again, but couldn't say it. It just sounded so ludicrous.

[Indigo]

I N D I G O
Indigo blinked at Adley in a way that questioned if he was losing his mind somewhere and she was going to be left to hang with the white lion that outweighed her by who knows how much. "Nude? Streaking through town crying L-I-O-N!" She gave him a look of disbelief. "Capable of having the holy hell scared out of us...yes we are. It happens to me rather frequently. If you think he disappeared into some enchanted wardrobe closet and we need to hunt him down I will believe that too...that He..." Her eyes shot to the lion resting on the clothing like he owned it." ...is Kaspar, well I tell you what...if it is Kaspar. I will be his cat nip."


K A S P A R
He looked at them eagerly, moving his head in a sort of nod as Adley said his name, and Indigo backing it up although in disbelief. He tried to focus, feeling a strange twitch and shudder in his frame, imagining his mane returning to his normal golden locks, his limbs stretching and relaxing into arms and legs, hands and feet rather than paws. Shift, he thought to himself, be Kaspar. The man, I am a man. A man. He wasn't entirely aware of what happened but it seemed fairly quick, but he became aware of a coolness to his flesh... Flesh, no fur protecting him from the elements. Naked. "Fick..." He breathed out, slumping forward until his hands found his knees. "That is a... A trip?"


I N D I G O
Indigo gasped. "I will be damned..." She was left speechless after that wintessing Kaspar in his bare glory and the white lion gone.


A D L E Y R E E D
Adley laughed. It probably wasn't a laughing situation, but he couldn't help himself. "I'm not sure what being his catnip involves, Bee, but looks like you're it," he said, snorting as he reached out to help Kaspar to his feet. The nakedness barely registered -- it wasn't as if it wasn't anything they'd all seen before. "That's ******* amazing, man. How did you do that?!" he asked.


K A S P A R
Kaspar groaned, letting Adley help him up and giving a long stretch of his tall frame. "Amazing? More like... I don't know. It is an ability, Lyonel can do it, Eva's husband. It is still not my most, uh, controlled..." He turned to snatch at his clothes, tugging them on and glaring down at the claw marks in his jeans. "Fick... I should change, before this becomes more exposing." He stared between them both, reaching to take his phone from Adley. "A ******* lion though, are we surprised?"


I N D I G O
Indigo shrugged. "It is better than a chipmunk or a baboon or something, right? Handy to know though." She smiled.


A D L E Y R E E D
Adley was staring at Kaspar with a strange gleam in his eye, like a kid who wanted a present. But Kaspar had been the one to teach Adley most things, and Adley knew about paths. Was it even something he'd ever be capable of? He had to let it go, this wonderment at what he himself might become. "You will learn, though. And then it'll be amazing," he said.


K A S P A R
He nodded to them both, reaching out to gently punch Adley in the shoulder. "Yeah, I could have had a big red baboon butt. Not cute. Thanks for the pets, sorry for scaring you two. I saw you and stupidly thought you might be able to help, I forgot I hadn't told you this was possible... I am trying, sorry, I don't know everything myself. Want to get out of here? Coffee? Something not in a dark, weird place?"


I N D I G O
Indigo smiled. "You looked like the real deal. Rather impressive actually." She glanced at Adley and shrugged while sending her hands into her front pockets. "I am free. How about you, Adley?"


A D L E Y R E E D
Adley imagined pushing his fingers through Kaspar's hair, now -- and he snorted. Again. It wasn't the same -- and yet it had been the same. He'd been petting his friend. It was so funny as to be hilarious, but maybe Adley was in some kind of shock. He just nodded. "Sure," he said, willing to let the others lead the way. He didn't have a say on where they'd go for coffee. He couldn't taste it to care.


K A S P A R
The snort had him blinking in disbelief, the sound terribly undignified and amusing but he managed to hide his snickering with activity. Kaspar shoved his phone into his back pocket, shrugging on his final piece of clothing, one of many worn leather jackets and stepping into his boots. Fingertips made quick work of lacing them up, wrapping the excess lengths around his ankles and knotting them. A quick look around ensured he had everything, the man silently praying to gods he didn't believe in that it didn't happen again today. "Ok... I guess I have some explaining to do." He grinned, as the trio headed towards an exit, Kaspar already considering how exactly you explained to friends how you could turn into a big *** lion. At least he wasn't boring, he figured.

[Adley Reed]

INDIGO
Indigo stepped into the Apiary and starfted pulling off her tote bag, placing her briefcase at her desk and searching for the one who she had needed to talk to as soon as possible. Moving through the studio she found her way to the forge hoping to find Adley there. Her eyes fixed on the back of him as she approached. Her bare arms slid around his waist and her lips brushed the back of his ear. "I found you."


ADLEY REED
Adley was most often at the forge these days; sick of the catacombs, Adley went instead to the abandoned underground system. Although he had no chance against the foes that lurked there, he aptly avoided them and instead picked up as many of the spare parts he could find. Those he brought back to Apiary, and continued to practice. Practice upon practice, hoping one day that he would master the art form. He'd come too far to give up now. The heat billowed from the forge, the hammer against steel ringing out across the space. The sound ceased as arms wrapped around his waist, a low hum vibrating his lips as he half turned for a kiss. "I am found."


INDIGO
Indigo observed his work. "How long before you are free?" Her hands appreciated the curves of his hips benath her palms then gave a brief squeeze as she stepped back.


ADLEY REED
Adley chuckled low, putting the blade down that he currently re-formed. As he stepped back and slapped at a lever, the flames died down and the heat abated. "I am free whenever you bid it," he said, turning to face Indigo fully. "Have we got plans that I am unaware of?" he asked with a vague wag of his brows, slow steps meandering closer to Indigo.


INDIGO
The connection was overwhelming in such delicious ways. It didn't matter where they were. She watched his approach and felt the rickle of what should be a healthy dose of blush spreading over her cheeks. "We always have plans don't we?" She felt bold and her hands proved it as she pulled him in close to her. "I have taken on a job that will provide this project several opprotunities. I hope you will be supportive once I explain."


ADLEY REED
Adley bowed down to lick Indigo's cheek, a playful gleam in his blue eyes. They did always have plans, yes. Adley liked to think that plans were always in the background, ready to unfurl at a moment's notice. His skin was warm where the fire had danced so close -- warm until it wore off. He leaned back, brow arched. "You make it sound like it's something I might not like," he said. "But I am intrigued. Go on..."


INDIGO
Indigo smiled as the cool glide of his moist tongue found her skin. She would have encouraged it to continue its travel but he was intrigued and she was wanting to share this new prospect with him. "I am now a personal assistant to someone who is about to do a publicity tour to promote their new book. In turn for my time and skills in place of a salary and benefits package they are willing to mention the community arts programs we have and the needs for future support to the entertainment and arts communities they have strong ties with. "Sounds great, yes?"


ADLEY REED
Adley nodded slowly, taking in the prospect that Indigo shared. There was one thing that Adley's brain snagged on, however. One tiny little detail. "A tour? Where to? I assume this person will want you to go with...?" he asked, wondering what it would be like to sleep in an empty bed, to worry for Indigo's safety every second of every minute of every waking hour. "I mean, yes, yes it sounds like a great opportunity for the business but what is it going to cost you?"


INDIGO
Indigo’s bottom lip was pinched between her teeth briefly as she listened to his concern which was valid. "I will be expected in the tour in various parts especially initially. I will need to leave in forty eight hours. I have my own rooms reserved and I will give you the itinerary so that you can drop in or join me if you wish? Look at the locations and pick what interests you and we can sight see, explore..." she smiled and brushed her fingertips over that delectable bottom lip he had."...play." She blinked when cost finally had her curious. "Cost?"


ADLEY REED
Maybe Kaspar's cautiousness had rubbed off on Adley, but he knew there were mobs out there. He knew there were humans who were so terrified of the existence of vampires they sought to kill them, or chain them. "It's outside of the city...." he said, brushing Indigo's finger from his lips so he could hold her hand in his, determined to discuss this rather than get distracted. "... in this current climate, do you really think it's safe?" he asked. She was the same as Kaspar, as what Jameson was. Allurist. She could probably get away with it, but that didn't temper Adley's concern. "But you sound like you've already decided," he said, eyes narrowed and more on guard.


INDIGO
Indigo felt the coolness of his hands around hers. It reminded her that he was protecting her and in her excitement and enthusiasm he was providing her with reason, possibilities that went with the world as it now was. Telling him that her role would be smoothing the path for the writer to come out as a vampire may or may not be well received had her choosing her words carefully. "It is outside of the city and technically the country." Her fingers pressed into his skin for reassurance. "They are coming out of the closet as a vampire. Much like Kaspar is."


ADLEY REED
"Is he?" Adley asked. He'd thought that it was something that Kaspar was thinking about, that he had not yet decided. It seemed Adley was out of the loop, which had him straightening, tightening, wondering where he fit. Although Kaspar had his family, if this was something he'd decided on he'd probably want support, too. Need it. "But you've already decided? You've... said yes, signed the contract, whatever it is you have to do to confirm your employment?" he asked again. "And you're not getting paid, no benefits, just free advertising? What if **** gets hairy, is this person going to throw you to the dogs? Do they give a **** about your safety or are you just a tool?"


INDIGO
Indigo blinked as he delivered a rather direct line of questioning as he should. Before being her lover, her best friend, her knight that saved her he had taken on the role that catapulted him above all the others. He was her sire. Of course he was asking her what was going on. "Well, not entirely sure on Kaspar but it seemed like it at that meeting here a while back. You have probably seen him more than I so perhaps I am wrong on that point." Indigo was never one to lack confidence or willpower. Now with her dark existence blooming it was no different. If anything it was even more at work than ever. Unlike many she was one who felt it was the greatest thing since they found a way to put raisins in bread. "I would not have said yes if I did not feel I was qualified Adley. What is the starting salary for being a personal assistant. Not a lot." She nodded matter of fact. She knew this because she had a few when she was doing the shows for the new lines in Europe. No one had time to do anything for themselves when running the catwalk for the fashion houses. It was insane. "If **** gets hairy as you put it there is a lawyer to handle all that. That is his job." She briefly smiled because she was the one who found him. "There will be security in place too. And if...IF I am a tool then I will become a wrench in any future plans they try to design in that regard. I assure you, though, that is not the case here. They have a career that they have built and worked hard for. They are passionate about being who they are and without the stigmas that are around us."


ADLEY REED
Adley would talk to Kaspar later, no doubt. Probably as soon as this conversation was finished. Whatever Indigo might think, Adley wasn't coming at this in any role as sire, though it was fitting. In so many ways he felt that Indigo was the last one standing. She was his first and sometimes only priority. It had little to do with who had sired who. "And here I thought we were a couple that discussed momentous decisions before going ahead with them, but I suppose we never did agree on that," he said. "This isn't just a job, Indigo. It's not just advertisement, and it's not money. It certainly isn't a game," he said, referring to her previous suggestion of play. "There is real danger out there for us. Serious danger, and there's no telling what kind of firepower could be aimed in our direction. What's to say the security can't be turned? A ******* lawyer certainly won't help if there's a rabble of humans with pitchforks and torches coming for you while you sleep," he said. Perhaps this was what humankind needed -- to see those in the limelight making a good impression. Maybe it was a commendable mission, but Adley couldn't see the big picture. He could only see the one thing that was right in front of him that he couldn't lose.


INDIGO
An instant drop of her insides as well as her lips formed as soon as the disappointment in the voice that could soothe her soul was inflected. "Oh my god, Adley. I didn’t mean in any way whatsoever to give you that impression. We are one." She could not move without feeling him in her veins, her breath borrowed or taken. "I believe in what we have but I never meant to have it interpreted as being taken for granted. I apologize if that is how this came across. I want to do this and be a part of it. You know how I feel about the gift you and Kaspar gave to me." She held the air in her lungs when the images in her head of pitchforks and humans coming formed. She winced. "If things go south then obviously it is time for the publicity tour to shift to another route for exposure and promotion. I am pretty sure he isn't into mobs with pitchforks. If anything I anticipate him being hounded by fans for the ticket to immortality. Sort of the opposite of what you expect. I don't think he is going to be handing it out like a complimentary ball point pen so no worries there."

[Indigo]

ADLEY REED
Adley wished that he had as much optimism as Indigo had. Adley wondered sometimes if he wasn't just a blackboard smeared with the chalk of others -- he had half Indigo's bright outlook, part of her faith, but also had part of Kaspar's concerns, his practicality. "You are allowed your independence and you can do what you want, that has always been agreed," he said. Freedom. It was the philosophy they shared. There were no chains. Adley had to remind himself that it wouldn't have occurred to Indigo, that to her, freedom was a given. He stumbled through his emotions like a man stumbling through a minefield in the dark, and shoved them all aside, buried them deep. Whatever had been on the tip of his tongue was smothered and dropped, ground beneath a metaphorical heel. "It doesn't matter what HE is into, Indigo. Jesus. He's a vampire, he has more power than humans to, and that will scare a lot of people. There'll be fanatics, and they won't all be throwing themselves at him for immortality. That kind of fire isn't going to just bring fans, it'll bring enemies too. If you're going to leave, can you at least try to be practical about the danger you're walking into?"


INDIGO
She leaned back against the surface behind her and realized yet again how much Adley grounded her. It was not a negative at all. It was one of the many things that went into balancing them out and making them work so well. They never fought, never had to. communication was always there and open. even as he raised his valid points she felt the love between them, the concern and commitment. "Yes. I see what you are saying. What would you suggest in preparation? This isn't all about me. It matters what you think and feel. We have built this community project together and more importantly we are both responsible to what we share that has nothing to do with business. I know I am young. You have far more experience."


ADLEY REED
Adley tangled his fingers in Indigo's, still, an anchor to contradict the following barb. "What I think and feel must not matter as much as I thought it did, if you made the decision without talking to me first," he said. "What I think is that it's dangerous, and I feel like locking you up in a room to keep you safe," he said, though he knew she was asking what he thought and felt about the project, and what good they could do for it. "This project only means something to me because it's something you are invested in. I want to suggest that you don't go. Because I barely have more experience than you do. The only advice I have is to watch your back and have an escape plan. At all times," he said.


INDIGO
Indigo felt a sharp ache finding its way in her chest with his first words in response. He needed to understand and she needed to explain how it went down so that he would be relieved of such a needless doubt. What he thought certainly mattered. "I was shown the ad and my mind spinned while I looked at it. It spiralled quickly from there. Within two hours I was already completing assignments for this tour that was already set to begin before I walked into the job. "You are with me constantly. I like when you lock me up in a room..." She found him utterly irresistible as he looked at her like he did. His presence alone turned her world upside down and lost was the sense of control she had, the focus. He sent her mind in a sweet ride towards things she likely shouldn't be thinking about considering the topic. His honesty anchored her back down from that floating effect trying to take over. She knew it was not as much his thing...the arts and the community as much as it was hers. She was Phineas' niece. “You will watch my back then, be there for me?"


ADLEY REED
Adley arched a brow. Maybe he didn't understand, but putting himself in her shoes he knew that he wouldn't have said yes to anything without talking to her first. Or maybe he'd have assumed that their minds worked in similar ways, and that she would agree simply because it was something he wanted to do. The more he dwelled, however, the more he knew it would have been the former. What did it matter, now? He didn't argue the point any more than he already had, and failed to be distracted by her playful tone. "Are you asking if I'll go with you? Who will watch Apiary? And what if Kaspar decides to come out, too? What if our home goes up in flames while we're away?"


INDIGO
Indigo smiled. "I will have Nigel and Ross will look after the Apiary. They have been amazing since they returned from their honeymoon. I have to show you the dress they brought me from Jamaica." she winked. "Yes I am asking if you will accompany me. I have my own room and I really think we could enjoy some time away."


ADLEY REED
As ever, Indigo was unfaltering. Her confidence was something to aspire to. She didn't even acknowledge Adley's doubts, didn't answer his what ifs. Again, she fell back on this trip as some kind of holiday. The one and only reason Adley felt inclined to go was to keep her safe, given how disinclined she was toward practicality, regardless of how he asked for it. A nameless expression twisted his features as his arms crossed loosely over his chest. "I'll have to think about it, Indigo. I'm not jumping on this like it's some kind of holiday. If I go it's not to have fun rolling around in the sheets, it'll be to act as bodyguard. But even then I'll be useless to you during the day. Then we'd both die, with no hope of return. Are you doing this just for the project, or do you believe he's actually going to do some good for us?"


INDIGO
Indigo felt some measure of relief. Adley was like trying to move a California Redwood with her bare hands when he was taking a stand on something. It was one of the many things about Adley that she admired. His tolerance for her passion when she believed in something and her being so young also helped. Adley dying would not happen. She would never entertain such a thought. She would surrender her last drop to keep him safe. Her bodyguard. She felt selfish for the way it gave her a tickle everywhere in her body. He would protect her to that degree. He really was going to get some special love and care as soon as she got him home. "Fine you can be my bodyguard, no sex while we are gone only because you have said as much and yes, Adley. I am doing this because of two things I deeply believe in. first of course was the potential exposure for my uncle's community arts program that was his legacy. Second is my belief that there is no reason for anyone not to be able to be who they are. No one should have to be in the dark."


ADLEY REED
"I haven't said yes yet. You made this decision assuming I'd jump on board but didn't take into account that I might have commitments, too," he said. There weren't any major commitments, so far, otherwise he'd have talked to Indigo about them first. But that didn't change the fact that he had gone to the meeting Kaspar had invited him to; he had met other people there, and he felt he should be on hand if needed. But he wasn't all that Kaspar had, and Indigo had priority. "I still have to think about it. I admire your optimism, your belief that we should be accepted, but I can't be so eager," he said. Surely, he wouldn't have to say it out loud -- he wouldn't have to reveal his weakness, when she knew it so well already. Despite his confidence and his cocky swagger, recent events had scarred him. He didn't believe that he should be accepted.


INDIGO
Indigo lifted from where she was leaning and stepped back into him sliding her arms around his waist. "Understood." Her indigo orbs lifted to meet his unforgettable eyes and she felt like a kitten trying to wiggle into that spot of perfection that made the rest of the world go away. "I won't expect anything and hope for everything." She had been doing it ever since she first set eyes on him when he found her. "I promise."


ADLEY REED
Adley relaxed, his arms dropping from where they sat crossed over his chest to instead wind around Indigo. He pressed a kiss to the top of her full head of wild hair. "I'm begging you to see that you can’t have faith in everyone. Out there, in the world, they're talking about segregation. ID bracelets. We're a danger and so we should be controlled," he said. "There was a mob on the street the other night, wanting to ... I don't even know what they wants to do to someone they thought was a vampire when she wasn't," he said. "It'd be nice to think that everyone's as open-minded as you want them to be, but in this world there are more closed minds than not. I love you, Indigo, and I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to you."


INDIGO
Indigo lifted up to her tip toes. "I love you." The words were across his lips chased by the tip of her tongue. "I would kill to keep you safe." Her eyes were cool and fixed when she said it. "I would destroy whatever was in the way to reach you."


ADLEY REED
They were pretty words, and Adley didn’t disbelieve them – but the thoughts ran rampant through his brain, imagining the things that could happen. Before he’d turned he’d wanted to travel. Travel had been high on his bucket list, but now? How difficult would it be, having to travel only at night time? And if they travelled during the day, who would they have to trust, and could they trust anyone in this climate? He didn’t argue it, however; he would think about it, and maybe argue it again the next night. For now, he made a move to pack up, ready to take them home.

[Adley Reed]

ADLEY REED
As soon as Adley had some time to himself he was back out on the street, feet pounding the pavement in a way he wished was soothing. Out of the gates of Larch Court and meandering into the city proper, heading toward Wickbridge, Adley retrieved his phone from his pocket and dialled Kaspar. The musician no doubt already had a lot on his plate, but not only would he be the only one to really understand, but he was the only person Adley really had to go to. Bright eyes assessed the streets; he kept to himself and mostly to the shadows as he lifted the phone to his ear, wondering if Kaspar would answer.


KASPAR
Kaspar sat behind the drums in his studio, they'd never been his strongest instrument but on occasion he enjoyed getting behind them and letting it all out. He had headphones on and through them was blaring a Sum 41 song which he was playing along to, the musician growling along with the lyrics. If he were human his skin would be glistening with sweat from the exertion, instead he merely felt a twitch of hunger, of thirst for the vitality of blood and maybe a tall beer after to wash it all down. His phone was felt more so than heard, vibrating in his pocket and as it was close to ending its siren song he finally fished it out of his pocket, not bothering to check the number before hurriedly answering. "Hallo? Wer ist das?" Though he had no need to breath the strain of his activity was evident in the husky, rushed way he exhaled the words.


ADLEY REED
The streets were relatively quiet. One might not guess what the news had recently revealed, and the turmoil that it had caused. It was an invisible tension thrumming in the air. Or maybe Adley was merely projecting, his own tension radiating from his lithe form as it hurried in no direction at all. Adley didn't try to translate the greeting; it was Kaspar's voice, and despite the fact he sounded busy, Adley paid it no mind. "Kas, I need to talk. Are you free?" he asked, blunt and to the point. No pleasant greeting -- he assumed that Kaspar was attentive enough to recognise the voice.


KASPAR
It was only after the other voice had responded that he realised he had been remiss in his normal method of phone answering, stating who they had reached and doing so in English. To ask rather snappily who it was had been outside of his normal manners, but he didn't get a chance to correct himself or apologise because it was Adley, and Adley needed him. "Adley... Ja, I mean yes, of course. Sorry. I was just playing... Where are you?" He was already freeing himself of the headphones that had fallen around his neck and looking for the shirt he'd shrugged off earlier as if he needed to remove the warmth of layers. Habits, all habits. He closed his fist around it, phone balanced between air and shoulder as he tugged it on, buttoning closed the well-worn tartan while waiting for instructions.


ADLEY REED
The soles of Adley's shoes scuffed to a stop on the pavement, weight grinding into dirt as he did a small circle. To his right, though a gap in the buildings, he could see the imposing wall keeping the city from the Quarantine Zone. Ahead were the lights of the mall, still bright, bodies moving in and out of the wide and welcoming front doors. He'd stopped on the corner, and the road to his right lead down to the train station. "It's not an emergency," he said, releasing a breath of air he didn't realise he'd been holding, the tension coiled in his lungs, in his limbs, in every part of him. "I'm in Wickbridge, near the station. You're at the studio?" he asked, squinting into the distance. If he walked to the studio, how long would it take him?


KASPAR
He was already checking the laces of his boots, wrapped around the top of them at his lower calf where they finished. "I need to get out anyway, I’m getting hungry. Gonna swing by Louis' place for dinner, then I’ll come meet you. What do you feel like doing? Talking quietly or breaking things? What do you need, Ads?" The blonde patted at his pockets, ensuring he had wallet, keys and one of the small diaries that almost always lived in his back pocket.


ADLEY REED
Hungry, Kas said, prompting Adley to run his tongue over his teeth. Briefly, the notion of breaking things appealed -- and yet it wasn't so much inanimate objects he imagined, but skin. And beneath it, a river of blood. A sharp breath hissed from flared nostrils as he shook the imagery away, filling his lungs instead with the air of the city, dousing any memory of blood. "I just need to talk," he said. He wasn't so much angry, as anxious. Maybe a little of both. "There's the Wicker, or Rossi's. I can wait in either."


KASPAR
"Fine... Wicker." He made a split decision, already on his way out the door, flicking lights and closing doors as he went. Louis' didn't take long, he had to drop off some stuff to his assistant as it was and he was more than happy to provide a meal for his boss and friend. It was an hour later when a far more relaxed Kaspar rocked up, blue gaze searching for Adley Reed.


ADLEY REED
Why, Adley asked himself, did he offer the choice between two bars? One was quieter than the other -- the one he now sat in, a booth claimed. He'd ordered a drink only to keep the bartender happy; a couple of fingers of whiskey in a tumbler which he stared at as if it were his arch enemy. He held it lightly, swirling the liquid and watching as the light danced off the amber hue. At least the scent of it was pleasing. Long legs were sprawled out in front of him, beneath the table. He only straightened once the door opened and Kaspar wandered inside; Adley lifted one hand, waving his friend over.


KASPAR
Kas gave him a nod of acknowledgement, swinging by the bar to grab a beer, tall and cold, the only on the menu that was European and closest he could get to his preferred German beers. The man dropped into the booth beside Adley, knocking a careless kiss against his jaw. His beer was set in front of him, Kaspar instead taking the glass of whiskey from Adley, "Prost." He spoke, before downing the liquid in one neat gulp. "Ahem... I figured I might need to prepare myself, if it's YOU doing the talking." He'd teased, a grin tugging up the left side of his mouth. "Hallo, Ads..."


ADLEY REED
Adley watched Kaspar as he went to the bar, as he ordered his beer and finally came to take his seat. Adley took the affectionate greeting without fuss, but gave none back -- not because he was cold toward Kas, but because he tried his best to keep to the boundaries set. He allowed Kas to set those boundaries with each meeting. Still, he laughed, a smile breaking over his lips. "Maybe I just called you here so I had company while I sat and brooded in silence," he said, nudging at Kaspar with his elbow, wanting nothing more than to taste the last drops of whiskey from Kaspar's lips. But he was a good boy, and made no move to do so. "Hello, Kas. Everything well I hope?"


KASPAR
Hummed a thoughtful sound, waving his free hand in the air in a so so motion as the other clasped the cold beer. "Yes, I think so... Watching, listening, waiting. Will is threatening to walk soon, he can sit up and stand, he can do this hilarious shuffling attempt at dragging himself about and crawling. Thank god we still appear to have some time before he can properly walk and talk, I dread to think the sass of a child of mine." He beamed proudly, even as he tried to act hard done by. "And you, handsome?"


ADLEY REED
As much as Adley wished he could beam alongside Kaspar, he was too bitter to do so. Of course he was happy for his friend -- he'd said that once, and he meant it. The family life was never going to be a thing for Adley, and he'd never be around to catch Will should he fall. As easy as he thought it might be to have Kaspar continue to talk about himself, he remembered that this was his doing. He had initiated this meeting. He had things to get off his chest. "Indigo took a job as an assistant. Some famous guy, doing a book tour. She's leaving in... well, it's twenty-four hours, now. Out of the city, out of the country. She decided, then came to tell me what she was doing. Am I wrong to be angry, that she wouldn't discuss it with me first? She thinks it's a game, Kas, She's too ******* buoyant about it, thinking nothing could go wrong. I told her to be practical and she said she would but how long will it last?" he breathed. The words had rushed from him, part of a story, but the gist was there. He rubbed at his temple and reached for the glass of whiskey. It was habit, but there was nothing to drink.


KASPAR
His smile faded the more Adley spoke, his jaw slackening as he listened, staring blankly at his friend and former companion. A low whistle left his lips as he gathered himself, taking a sip of the beer, licking the foam from his upper lip before finally deciding to reply. "That is rough." He agreed, "I know that she believes in being free to do as you wish, but there is a difference between not asking someone to be part of the decision and not even informing them about it in the first place. That, for me, does not work. I will not dictate what those close to me do but if they are a part of my life in such a way that I see them almost every day, or I love them, then I want to know what is going on. Does she even know this person? Has she been informed of how they will travel safely and what precautions are being put in place? Will there be any?" He grunted, wiping a hand across his face. "Dummkopf."

[Kaspar]

ADLEY REED
Adley nodded, short and curt. "Exactly. Freedom or no, we live together, we share a bed. She says a lot of pretty things, she says my thoughts and feelings matter but if they did, wouldn't she have sought my advice first?" he shook his head. The two had left the Apiary on good terms the night before; they had continued to share a bed, wrapped up in each other. But Adley couldn't shake it, the way she'd so easily drifted back into playful teasing. Maybe when they declared their love, they'd got the meanings all mixed up. It wasn't the same for her. He was just another bedfellow. "She doesn't know him. She says there'll be security. She thinks he's only going to get mobbed by fans, not enemies. I'm torn, Kas. She's too ******* naive to go on her own, but I feel like I'm needed here," he said, gaze searching out Kaspar's, seeking some indication of what step he should take next.


KASPAR
"****..." He breathed, taking a quiet moment to mull it over. It was a complicated issue, he knew how Adley felt about Indigo and how he'd been drawn into her lifestyle, how in many ways it suited his own and gave him a sense of belonging. Her leaving, her making major decisions and choosing to leave on a whim for him could feel very close to abandonment. "It's all so fast, but it's Indigo. Fast is her only speed, she just makes it look so laid back. I don't know, Adley." He admitted, hand lifting to cup the back of the man's neck, giving a light squeeze. "You could go with her, ensure she is safe but you may put yourself at risk if things aren't as she hopes. If you stay, and something happens how will you feel? What do you want to stay for? Do not get me wrong, I am not saying that you aren't wanted or needed here but..."


ADLEY REED
Adley had said as much to Indigo -- if humans knew about vampires, if they came for them, they wouldn't be stupid. They'd come in the daylight hours, and in those hours Adley would be as useless as Indigo. Neither would be safe. There was a small twitch of a loathed doubt at Kaspar's but, waiting to be told that he had his family, that Adley could go and wouldn't be missed. The doubt was swiftly quashed, strangled and slaughtered. "That's why I'm angry. She thought that you were coming out, too. To your fans. And yet she wants to flit around the world with a stranger. He's paying her in advertisement for the arts project. She gets no salary, no benefits. But this is her home, and it's in turmoil. She's so optimistic that everyone should be accepted, regardless of breed, but I'm not so sure..."


KASPAR
The hand that had clasped at the nape of his neck flexed, fingertips stroking downwards to settle between his shoulder blades, taking up a slow soothing movement. "She does care about you, it's just that she cares about too much, too easily. It's like the opposite of our struggle but with a result that is quite the same. Lovers come and go, if they care they will stay around no matter what, they should be happy for you blah blah... Me? No. I have not yet decided what I will do, but with the album officially released in a few weeks I should OBVIOUSLY make my announcement to boost the sales." His eyes rolled heavily, to prove he was joking. It was suggested by his father, the insinuation that he needed a gimmick stung even though he didn't care overly about numbers and the pre-order sales were already impressive. "I want to join her in that optimism, I want that but I know there will be resistance and good. Some vampires are awful, some humans are awful. She believes in her foundation and she clearly sees a way to help it, she believes she has found a way to do it and at little risk to herself. She is probably excited, a new adventure, new people and new things to see. It is dangerous, it is foolish but it is Indigo... Is it YOU, Adley? Do you go? Do you risk yourself?"


ADLEY REED
Adley's arm fell heavily to the table, his body slumped ever so slightly. It was dangerous and it was foolish and he wasn't kidding when he'd told Indigo his first urge was to lock her up somewhere to prohibit her from going anywhere. But for what other reason had he fallen for her? He needed the optimism, he needed to try to have faith. Without it, he'd lose his mind and his soul along with it. "It doesn't matter if it's ME. The foundation only means something to me because it's something she created. I have to go. I know she's not, but sometimes I feel like she's all I have left. I don't know what I'd do if something happened to her and I could have been there to prevent it. Or to at least try. But if I do go, you have to promise to keep in contact -- tell me what's happening in the city, if anything major. If YOU need us, I will make her come home," he said, deadly serious.


KASPAR
He hugged the man briefly to his side before releasing him, taking up the sipping of his beer once more. He knew the outcome, he knew what Adley would do regardless of the indecision and confusion he'd come to Kaspar with. "I know you have to, and whether she would acknowledge it or not, she needs you there too. We will be fine here, things will happen, things always happen but there is little we can do to control it. I will tell you of things I hear, if it is important but I do not want you to spend the whole trip brooding and worrying about the city." About me. The though made him sigh, giving Adley a wistful look, but keep the words to himself. "It will be ok, or it won't. All we can do is our best by those we care for, and stand for what it is we believe. You need her belief to make up for your own that is missing, then ok, you let her believe for you. Be careful, it won't be easy."


ADLEY REED
Adley laughed, mirthless, and shook his head. "I'm only going to offer whatever protection I can. I'm not going because I need her optimism right now, I'm going because she needs a healthy dose of practicality every now and again. She chooses not to see the mob mentality. She wants a romantic holiday away, but what she needs is someone to look for the danger she seems so utterly ******* blind to," he said, groaning as he crossed his arms on the able in front of him, head bowing to meet flesh. "If this is what we did to you, if this is what we put you through, Kas, I'm so ******* sorry," he said, voice muffled.


KASPAR
There was an audible wince, he could see it building, could see where it was going and some part of him hoped Adley did not put two and two together. "It is hard to be the practical one, you feel so... Negative. Sometimes it is needed, just you two be careful. It is ok, we do not need to go over it again." He murmured soothingly, or in some attempt at it. "If you need some guy time, you call me when you get back."


ADLEY REED
They had gone over it before, it was true. Adley had been made aware of how he and Indigo's blustering good faith had made Kaspar feel, he had accepted it and apologised for it but now he knew how it felt. And he could apologise in earnest. He had done so, and was mildly glad himself that Kaspar was so graceful about it. He was grateful that they didn't have to dwell on the subject. He drew himself up and rounded his shoulders, pulling himself together. Decision made. He now had the rest of one night to get **** sorted -- to tell Indigo what he had decided, to organise his own travel plans, to pack. "I need to go eat. And then I need to prepare," he said. "Thank you. We'll be careful. I'll keep you in the loop," he said.


KASPAR
Kaspar finished his drink, slipping from the booth and waiting for Adley to stand in turn. He hesitated to leave, a hand rubbing at the back of his hair with, hovering as if making up his mind. He'd offered before and been turned down, he understood why but this was a friend in need. "Adley... We can get dinner together, take care of one of your problems quickly so that you can focus on the packing and the other plans. If you want."


ADLEY REED
Adley followed suit, standing and regarding Kaspar with dubious consideration. The plan would have been to take a 'shortcut' through the sewers, from the entrance near Wickbridge station to exit a block or so from Larch Court. There was a chance he'd find what he needed down there, but it would be a messy process -- one in which he might lose himself for a time. The other prospect was to go home to Indigo, which wasn't at all a bad one -- but something still smarted on the inside when he thought about her. And so he nodded. "Okay," he said, leading the way to the door, already thinking ahead, wondering what private nook they might find to dine in private.


KASPAR
He'd a drawn a breath, held it in his lungs for what felt like an eternity, the air stale with anticipation as it was exhaled sharply. He was tempted to make some remark about how it wasn't that hard after all, or make a silly joke about what was on the menu for the evening but he swallowed the words. It would be in poor taste, and the guy had been through a difficult few days. After all, Adley had finally come to see part of the larger issue for Kaspar and why it was he'd made the decision to step back from their intimate relationships, for that he had earned a simple silent nod and the loping stride of the rocker following him out the door.