Akieen Cloud

If that's what you wanna do Shwa, and I hope things are okay for you Inu.    Either way I'll have some down time tonight and I'll post and move us along. Sorry about the wait everyone. Just got a lot of life going on. ^^

Well I plan on posting sometime today if things stay settled down. Had some stuff come up the other day when I was planning on posting again that kinda threw me off kelter, so I've been a little preoccupied.    Also, just a small side note, no violence in tolerated in any of the sanctuaries, that's why they're called that. lol. It's a safe haven where people of our nature with no place to go stay to be safe. 

Darian pinched the bridge of his nose as he let out a sigh. "Alright, we'll talk, but first. Let's get your and your crowd some new clothes. Some of you look like hell and other smell like it. Literally." Akieen looked over her bare shoulder at Kayin who in turn frowned slightly before sniffing his sleeve and making a slight sour face.  "Fine. Make it quick." Darian nodded and motioned for Akieen to follow his sister while the men followed him. Up the stairs they went til she followed the fem vamp into a room on the left. "I do apologize for the choice of attire Lady Akieen." Akieen raised an eye brow. "Oh?" Opening the closet Akieen felt her self frown at the dresses contained inside. "All we have here are our clothes from the old days when we were born. My brother informed me of your distaste for such clothes." "What's your name?" "Amilin, my Lady." "Okay, first off. Stop calling me that." "But your the-" "Don't matter. Just stop it. And second. What's the simplest thing you have in here?" Akieen watched as the little woman ducked into the closet and began to rustle around until she came out, holding a plain, robin egg blue dress with a white collar. The sleeves billowed out, much like the shirt Malachai had given her. The boots were old time-y and buttoned all the way up. The heel had Akieen wobbling some what before she got the hang of it. It was then that Amilin pulled her long pale tresses back and wrapped it around it's self and into a simple yet elegant loose pony tail. The over all effect had Akieen's breath hitching. She looked in the mirror barely realizing it was her own reflection. "You look beautiful." She nodded and followed the young woman back down stairs, the gruff voice catching her off guard and making her glad she still had a hold of the banister. "You look like a woman. That's new." She looked over, not shocked when she saw Kayin and Darian, the voice having been from Darian; but it was Kayin that was hold her attention at the moment. His hair had been combed free of tangles from the fights and was covering half his face. He was leaning on the wall, one foot propped up behind him as his arms were crossed over his chest. The blood red suite Darian had put him in matched him well and accented his features as well. The glossy dress shoes seems some how mismatched on his feet. But the over all effect the suite had on the half demon was almost memorizing. It was then she came back to her senses to see said half demon looking at her oddly, no doubt taking notice of her staring. Clearing her throat she looked at Darian who was in a coal grey suite. "If you've forgotten, I am a woman. Now down to our conversation." "You lot look famished. Why not talk and eat. I can tell your hungry Akieen." "We just had breakfast." "And you couldn't eat again?" She looked around and noticed that some of them indeed did look famished and remember that most of them had only picked at their food later that morning. "Fine. But Darian. You had best start talking." She walked past him and through the warehouse into the far room that opened up into a lavish style living room. "How can you afford to remodel places like this?" "Family fortune. Not only that, you live as long as we do, you learn to put money away." Akieen nodded knowing she too has a few bank accounts her self. Sitting down next to Dark she sighed as the others filed in. All the men now sporting tailored suites, Dark's happened to be a deep royal purple that matched him very well. The white under shirt and black vest fitting him nicely. Mikhail was wearing a white suite, his friend was wearing what seemed to be a greyish blue. Barracus in his usual black suite, but her eyes lingered on Kayin once again as he moved through the doors. It wasn't until Dark's whispering caught her attention that she looked away. "He looked quite nice tonight doesn't he?" "Yes he does...wait, who are we talking about?" "A certain half demon that has seemed to wiggle his way past your barriers? Perhaps through all that eluding and chasing done these past years?" "Whatever Dark. He hates me. That's plain to see. And it't not like I care any way." "I see, so you have no interest in him what so ever?" "Dark, it doesn't matter. You know I won't go that route, no matter what. Not only that, ever if I did have some kind of interest in him, he has the emotional capacity of a snail." "I'm not so sure Akieen. He did give you his coat." "I was naked." "And you think it was because he was uncomfortable? I heard his mother was a succubus. I doubt nudity makes him uncomfortable." "And I think your reading to much into this." "Admit it, and I will leave it alone." Akieen glanced over at him and rolled her eyes noticing that the entire time he had simply been cleaning his nails as if it was just a regular conversation.  "There's nothing to admit Dark." "I think there is Akieen. I think a part of you grew attached to him while he was chasing you." "I got used to it. That's all." "Akieen, you can not tell me, that when you look at him right now. Your not attracted to him." Akieen found Kayin again and watched him move, it was fluid, and powerful, like the way many of them moved. She could see his eyes scanning the area before landing on her and frowning at finding her watching him again. She looked away slowly, before putting her face in her hands. "By the powers that be...your right..." "I told you." She shook her head, her stomach clenching tightly. "I can't let this turn into anything. Dark, you have to help me." "Of course. But, I must tell you. I think it would be a good thing for you to open up to someone other then me." With that, she watched as he stood, offered Kayin his seat and walked away with out waiting for an answer; Akieen simply watching him. Her expression changed as Kayin took the offered seat and looked at her. His eyes burning into her.  "Is there a reason you've been watching me?" "No...yes...I mean-" "Are you really so much like a child you can not speak when you've been found out?" Akieen frowned now and looked at him heatedly. "I was watching you because..." She swallowed the lump in her throat. "You look handsome in the suite Darian gave you." She watched out of the corner of her eye as Kayin looked over him self and nodded. "Thank you." She nodded, and took a deep breath before taking a sip of the cold water already placed on the table, the condensation wet her palm as she picked the glass up and moved it towards her lips, before her grip slipped and the glass fell to the floor. "Dammit..." She leaned over to pick it up, at the same time Kayin did, the tops of their head colliding.  "Ouch..." She looked up and sighed, sitting up and allowing Kayin to pick it up for her. "You really just have no luck...do you?" "No. I don't. I'm jinxed." "So all those times you escaped me-" "Were flukes. I just happened to cause enough chaos for you to not notice the bad things happening around you. So when it did happen, I just took the chance to sneak off." "So, it's not that your a five year old. Your just extremely unlucky. In a lucky way." Akieen thought about this for a moment before smiling, a small chuckle leaving her. "I suppose that's a way of putting it." He nodded slowly. "It's a wonder your even alive." She laughed lightly and nodded. "The small instances with your are just the tip of the iceberg, you should have been there for some of my other moments." "Something tells me to be glad I wasn't." She nodded again. "Oh, yes. I would imagine so. I think...the worst one was by far, a long time ago. Long before this day and age. My family and I were..." She trailed off as the memories filled her head. Memories she liked to keep away.  "Your family? I thought-" "I am the only one. I out lived them. None of them are alive today." Kayin nodded, respecting her silence and Akieen noticed his eyes look up and follow Darian as he entered the dining room. A large cart rolling behind him laden with meats, wines, cheeses and other fine dishes. "You vampires are always so lavish." "It's a life style we enjoy Akieen. We can blend in better then your kind." Akieen felt hackles come from her throat. "I told you before-" "I know. But on to the topic of the afternoon. You need to make sanctuary before tomorrow night." "Do you know where it is?" â??"It's under the island of Manhattan. Under a dance club owned by the Elfik. The only problem, they've closed the sanctuary." Akieen stood quickly. "What? Why?" "The catacombs underneath that link with the sanctuary. They're the catacombs of the five families." Akieen felt the blood drain from her face. "Y-Your kidding? The five family catacombs...that's the sanctuary?" "Not entirely. The sanctuary is a web of tunnels, all within a certain area of holy ground protected by Alistair. Only some of the tunnels meet with the catacombs, the years have take their tole and some of the walls have crumbled allowing passage from the safety of the sanctuary and into the catacombs." Akieen covered her face with her hand and sighed. "Then what can we do?" "Convince the Elfik you need to get under there." Kayin frowned as the information soaked in. "Five families? I thought there were only four?" Darian shook his head sadly. "There are four remaining. There were originally five vampire families that all lived in a maze of tunnels under Manhattan before everything was built. Before it was even called Manhattan. The Corvus, Elfik, Agaline, Taki, and the Ulquin clans. All the clans lived well together until one day the tamer four began to discover the Ulquin's nasty habit for mauling their victims instead of taking just what we needed. Their blood lust began to escalate until after a meal he human wasn't even distinguishable as a human. The old murder, the Ripper was of the Ulquin clan. They ripped their victims to pieces, gnawing on the limbs til they were nothing but bloody clumps of flesh and bone. The rest of the families decided we could no long allow them to continue their destructive feasting, or we would all be found out and hunted to the brink of extinction. And so the war of the families began. Much of the fighting was done down in the catacombs, death permeated from the tunnels, blood filled the sewers and for nearly 20 years they fought til finally, the Ulquin clan was brought to it's knees. The families were separated then, each going their own way, but not before doing one last act of violence towards their brethren. Walling the dead, and remaining Ulquin members within the catacombs they filled it with gas, and ignited it, sealing them within the thick stone walls. Tales tell that the floors of the catacombs are covered in ankle deep ash from the brothers and sisters that were burned to death in the tunnels. Others have said that if some one were to venture into the catacombs, they would never return." Akieen looked over as Baldr spole for the first time. "Sounds like some kind of bad vampire horror story." Darian nodded slowly. "Your right. But it's still keeping you from being safe away from my family." Akieen frowned as he said this. "Yeah, about that. See, I have a problem with this. You say you didn't agree with your father, so what kept him from killing you? You know, the whole family telepathy thing." "It's easy to fool an old man Akieen. We simply thought what he wanted to hear, but believed something different. Once he was killed we made our move here and waited you out." "I see. And, now that your father is dead? Now that I killed him?" "Now we run. We run as if the devil him self is at our heels. Cause for all intents and purposes...he is." Akieen felt the hair on the back of her neck stand on end at these words. "D-Darian...w-who took over your family...?" "You don't want to know." "You tell me what I want to know right now!" â??The others jumped slightly at the panicked tone of her voice. Darian only seemed to be expecting it. "My uncle Trystan..." Akieen sunk into her seat, the breath leaving her as the color drained from her face. "Tyrant Trystan...wonderful." Mikhail shook his head. "What's the big deal about this man?" Darian shook his head in return. "He is no man. He is a devil in his own rights. Far less peaceful then my father was, and ten times more brutal. He has a blood lust and taste for human flesh that battles even the worst tales of the Ulquin family. He is murderous and clever. Powerful beyond measure due to his intake of human blood, and crazy also because of it." Kayin frowned now. "Crazy because of it?" "It's the reason we no long live off of human blood, only ingest enough to keep us alive. It's become a drug to us. The more we drink, the stronger we become, but the more dependent of it we become as well. It eventually drives us into insanity. Much like  a wild animal being taken over by rabies. Much stronger then normal. But extremely aggressive, unpredictable, and dangerous. My uncle is one of the worst cases I have ever seen of blood poisoning I've ever known of." The all nodded slowly. "So we have to move. We have to move now." Darian shook his head at Akieen. "You can't...not now. It's to late in the afternoon, evening will be upon us soon. And after that the night will be alive." "So we need to-" "The full moon is tonight Akieen. Two of your company will not be able to travel by normal means. You need to get them into the underground area here, get them into the cells and get them comfortable before the moon rises. As for you, you need to be put into solitude as well." At this Kayin frowned more. "I thought should could control her changes." She nodded slowly. "I can...but I still need to be put away for my own safety." "Your own..." Dark cleared his throat. "The full moon is a 'breeding time' so to speak for her. She is the most susceptible to her fating instincts  and it takes much of her sanity to fight them off. If she's on her own it takes less." Kayin shook his head confused. "Fating...?" Akieen sighed as she looked over to him. "My fating is what it's called when I find 'the one'. Or my fated mate. It's a natural process that I can not fight and I have no control over. It could literally be anyone. I have no choice of who it is. All I know is the feeling I get when I meet that person. That's all I can tell you. And I can't put it any better then that cause I don't know how." Sighing she nodded to Mikhail and Baldr who both seemed to have forgotten that it was so close to being time, and both looked less the happy about the arrangement. Darian took notice as well and gained their attention. "I can assure you, the cells are not what they sound like. They are very comfortable, just more fortified for such occasions. Or if one of our kind go feral. I promise, you and the outside world will be safe from each other." Akieen cleared her throat. "Do it. We don't have time to argue about it. We don't have the time to out run the night and make it to sanctuary in time, and the 3 of us can't be out of the streets like this." They nodded, but still looked less then happy about the situation. She looked up at Darian and nodded. "After this. I'm severing my ties to you and your family." He nodded. "I understand."     (Alright everyone, please no surprise twists here. We're staying with Darian through the night, and the full moon. Once it's over we'll move on to the sanctuary. A couple time we've moved ahead a little quicker then I wanted so let's just get through this and the next time I post we'll be at sanctuary. ^^)  

Akieen growled low in her throat as she stared down at Malachai, her vision turning red. "Akieen, we have to go. Now!" She shook her head. "Get them out Gabe. I'll follow." "You'll get your self killed. He has a Lich." Again she shook her head. "Let them come." Gabe watched as her slight form shook, the muscles in her petite body tensing as she hunched over almost as if in pain, her eyes melting into the violet of her beast form as white fur sprouted from her pores. He could hear her bones cracking and breaking into place, her clothes shredding at her transformation. It always looked painful, but out of all the transformations he had seen, her's was the most flawless. Standing on her hind legs she let out a bellowing howl silencing the area for a moment before the battle resumed it's chaos. "Malachai!" The growling voice echoed through the stone walls and down to the vampire it belonged to. "Akieen, my dear. You don't mean to fight me? I'm almost 300 years older then you. You do not stand a chance." "You might be older, but right now my anger knows no bounds!" Leaping from her spot she landed heavily in front of him, sending warning hackles to the infected who charged at her, at the tone in her growl they pinned their ears back and bent their heads forward in surrender, Mikhail and Baldr shivering slightly at the sound of it as they followed Gabe. Malachai looked around and chuckled. "I see, alpha mess and all that as you say. What made you use it now?" Her voice was low, dangerous and promised death. "Your mine." His eyes began to glow like embers in the gray light of the morning as he hissed at her, her growling in return as they circled one another slowly before he launched him self at her, the sound of their bodies colliding was like a shock wave through the stone.  Elsewhere Gabe lifted a small hatch in the wall, a tunnel could be seen just beyond it. "Go out this way. It'll bring you up to the surface a good 10 miles from here. No one will know where you've gone and no one will be able to track you." Kayin nodded and took point as the others fell in line, Dark stopping momentarily to look at Gabe.  "You not coming with us?" "No. I'll keep them here." They nodded and moved through the tunnels. Akieen reached out, howling as Malachai's nails racked down her shoulder leaving angry gashes in their wake, whirling around she caught him with the back of her front paw sending him a good 2 feet back. She charged forward, her fangs barred as he hissed back at her; their bodies colliding once again as she snapped her head to the side and bit into his arm. Her large jaws covered his shoulder, and reached down into his chest piercing his thin flesh. Taking a step back she looked down on him as his hand covered the worst of the bite, blood seeping through his fingers as his breathing became ragged. She could hear the air rushing through the punctures and felt a grim satisfaction in knowing she had pierced his lung. "You never should have betrayed me Malachai. You should have known I would kill you." "You have no idea the power he holds." "Maybe not, but you'll never know the future old timer. Your end is here now." His scream rent the air as she swooped down on him, her jaws opening wide and concealing his head before closing sharply, his head severed and within her massive jaws. Letting it fall to the ground she looked around her now as his children paused their fighting, their eyes concentrated on her as the death of their father sank in making them thirst for her blood now as the anger became palpable in the air. Hunching down she let the growls come from her chest, deep and rumbling, clearly marking death for any who decided to try her.  The hand on her shoulder burned slightly with a holy touch and she spun around growling til the bright light made her whine, covering her eyes from the burning light and dropping her head, her tail tucked and ears pinned she knelt in front of him. His wings furled out from his back, sword in hand as holy light gleamed from his very being. "Akieen, get out. You know how." "Gabe..." "Go, now." "What about you...?" "I won't be following you." She knew what this meant and nodded slowly, reluctantly dropping onto all fours and bounding away quickly. Following the scents of the others she found the hatch and opened it, following it down. They were moving quickly, that was good and with in an hour she had caught up to them just out side the forest away from the stone fortress. Her form changing as she ran til she came up to them back in her human form. They all looked back as the ground shook, a large sphere of light engulfing the sanctuary, blinding them, it engulfed the area in pure holy light, shaking the foundations and causing them to look away. It caused the air to shift and push against them as the power billowed out from the high angel, the feeling of it was full of life and it made Akieen's heart sink; it was Gabe him self. They stayed like that, hiding their eyes and holding their ground til it was gone. The mountain, and the sanctuary built into it both gone. Destroyed and brought to the ground. Akieen felt tears sting her eyes for the loss of her friend, but knew that he would find his place among his brothers and sisters on high once again. Blinking she looked up and over her shoulder as someone put a jacket around her shoulders. The red fabric belonging to Kayin as he nodded silently to her, the smell coming off of it was repulsing at best and she did all she could not to wrinkle her nose, his show of kindness was something she didn't expect and would rather not disrespect it, though her eyes watered slightly and she fought the urge to cough and gag as she spoke. "Let's get moving." They began to make their way swiftly to New York. No words were spoken, only the sounds of their quick footsteps could be heard. The threat that was following them from New Orleans now gone, thanks to Gabe.  

I was planning on getting there next after a good night rest. But oh well. lol

Saph woke up, sore, bruised and thirsty. "Water?" She was surprised when a glass was handed to her almost instantly, looking out the corner of her eyes she was not surprised to see a slightly older young man sitting next to her. "Reckless. I can't think of any other word Mags." She rolled her eyes at the nickname but sipped at the offered water none the less feeling it ease the dryness of her throat. When she spoke her voice was hoarse and cracked.  "How long was I out?" "A few days. You took a good hit Mags. What were you thinking? Mooma had a fit." "I bet she did." Saph felt a small smile tug at the corner of her lips, the older woman, Mooma as she was called, was a stand in mother of sorts for her and she fretted constantly.  "How much damage?" "A good bit, it's a good thing we made the mountain when we did. You were pretty banged up." "How's my healing going?" He shook his head. "I'm not a doctor Mags, that's your job. I'm just a worker." "Whatever Reed. Get out of here." Watching Reed go she sat up slowly wincing as her arm throbbed slightly. "Fractured, bruised ribs, shin, and knuckles...Slight head injury, lacerations on arms...seems like most of this would have healed by now..." 'Averin?" No response. 'Averin, can you hear me?' She felt panic rise in her slowly before a lazy answer came to her. 'I was resting, what?' 'Why am I not healed as much as I usually am?' 'I too need healed...and these people are not as quick as you. The faster I am fixed, the faster your heal. Since these injuries were done while in direct link we'll heal together.' She nodded and lay back on the sterile hospital bed with a sigh. 'Has anyone come to see me beside Reed?' 'None from the team if that's what you mean. They wanted to give you time to rest.' She nodded again feeling sleep pull at her muddled brain. 'Rest little one. We're safe for the time being.' She barely had the energy to make a reply as sleep took over once again. 

Akieen sighed, before she had known it, it was midnight. She was sitting in a high backed chair half listening to what Gabe was telling her. "-After that you move down south, there's a few cities there that might be a few of his targets if our information is correct. The larger the city is the more likely he is to hit it. Got Akieen? ...Akieen?" "Huh? What? Yeah, I got it."  She waved a hand dismissively as her thoughts went round and round in her head. "Are you ever listening to me woman?" "Not a word. I"ve been thinking myself actually." "About what?" She looked up meeting Gabe's gaze. "Malachai was working for Rasputin. He was feeding him information in which case possibly giving out false information? Why destroy the cities?" "He needs the blood-" "The blood seals, yeah. But your an angle, you ever hear of anything like that before you fell from grace?" Gabe stopped and thought for a few moments, his brow knitted in concentration. "No. Now that you mention it. I haven't" "Right, so how do we know if that information is real or not?" "Obviously, we don't" She nodded again, this time looking at the map. "But, given the destrction, famine, death, and whatever else. We can tell where he's been. Maybe even where he's gonna be." Gabe nodded and peered over the map with her as the others listened intently. Akieen spared a glance at the new comer, sitting next to Mikhail. He smelled different. It was wild and most assuredly feline. Looking back down at her map she pointed to her home. "New Orleans. One of the monster mecha capitals in the world. So, if he's been here it must mean he's looking for something, or someone. But what? Who?" Kayin's voice filtered up from the table. "Allies maybe. He might have been looking for some one to keep a watch out for us and alert him if we made a move." Akieen nodded as she put a small pin on New Orleans. "Alright, so allies. If that were the case, and he was looking for easy to influence creatures to turn into allies...where would he go next?" Her and Gabe poured over the map some more, both looking this way and that before Akieen slapped a hand on the table. "Here!"  They all looked to where she was pointing, Gabe raised an eye brow. "New York? What makes you think that?" "You know just as well as I do what hides in those subway tunnels. They'll be flocks of them at his disposal." Gabe nodded slowly. "I suppose your right..." "I know I am." Dark stood up and looked at the map closer. "They sub ways, you don't mean Akieen...?" "The Zombie population. Easily manipulated, easily bargained with, and extremely easy to turn feral." Kayin shook his head. "Feral, aren't they all-" "No. most of them live off insects and dead animals like road kill. Most you'll find have jobs as grave diggers, garbage men, or highway cleaners. Good picks on food in those jobs so I hear. But in the tunnels...in the subways...there are the feral ones. The ones that refused to accept their fate, held off on eating the insects and rotting meat needed to keep them selves. They went insane and started to crave live flesh. Once they hit that point, their sent to the subways. Most are hoping that they get hit and killed by a train. But a lot of them know the truth. There's an underground community of them. And god help if one of those trains ever get caught in a tunnel, or a sewage worker has to go down there. They'll never come back. Even rats refuse to go to the tunnels which is why they've take to the streets more often these days. The number of feral is growing." "What you said that it wouldn't take much influence them, what did you mean?" "Why do you think most of them take jobs that deal with dead things? If one of the sane ones were to taste human blood, or flesh they'll instantly be addicted and never be able to go back. They'll become feral within hours. And just as the woods are tantalizing for us were's, human flesh, and blood is to a Zombie. If they get a big enough whiff of it, that's it. Game over. They can be driven mad by the scent." They all looked at the map hard now, Gabe frowning. "That does sound like a tempting pit stop." Akieen nodded. "Don't it though?" Gabe sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "There's a sanctuary there. I can get you there in one piece if you like." "Good god, how many of these things do you all have scattered around?" "Enough. There's a problem with management though that your not gonna like Akieen.: She raised an eye brow waiting for him to go on. "Alastiar holds the refuge you seek there." Throwing her hands into the air she spun away from the table and began to pace. "He would be!" "He'll harbor you. All of you, you know that." "Oh I know. But that doesn't mean I want to deal with a lecherous angel any more or less." "He means well. And you know he can't-" "I know. But it makes it no less annoying Gabe." "Well then. I can send you to Castiel first if you like." Akeein paled suddenly, her mouth clamping shut as she shook her head. "Al's fine. When do we leave?" "Get some rest for the night. I'll have food brought to your rooms. I'll take you in the morning." She nodded and left for her room, the others doing much the same.  Sleep did not come easy to her, nightmares littered her dreams, often times making her screaming wake her self. Once she had enough she slipped from her bed, goose bumps rising out all over her skin as her bare feet hit the stone floors. Snatching the robe off the corner of the four poster bed she wrapped it around her self covering her white underware and bra. Shuffling into the bathroom she turned on the cold tap and washed her face clean of sweat, looking at her wild icy eyes staring back at her in the mirror as she gripped the sides of the sink. "This is insane...I can't keep dreaming like this..." "How long has it been Akieen?" She started and spun around seeing Gabe with his arms crossed. "How long have you been there?" "Long enough to know your still have nightmares. How long has it been?" "It's been a while Gabe...but something like that never leaves you." "I understand. But don't you think it's time-" "To move on? I have..." He nodded and walked forward putting a hand on her shoulder. "You know, you can confide in me. I am your friend." "He's gone Gabe. There's nothing I can do to fix that." "He was human. Fragile. You knew that your self and yet still took the risks." "Kolin was still young...if ever I was-" "I know. Is that...he the reason you hate the infected so much?" She nodded slowly. "He was only 5 Gabe...I found him on the streets, his home turned to ash, his mother and father gone with it. He had no one...if only I-" "You didn't know the full moon was that night. No one knew..." She shook her head and pushed past him. "Good night Gabe." He nodded in understanding as he left. "Good night Aki." The door closed shut leaving Akieen to her self once again as she pulled off the robe and climbed back into the bed, sleeping fitfully for the rest of the night.   

Alright,  Reaper, great work. And Anakoni, you too. I'll bring both of you in at the next sanctuary, which shouldn't be to much longer. 

Akieen looked around, her gaze shifting back and forth til she ran flat against Gabe's back. "Wanna watch where your going Aki?" She chuckled lightly. "Sorry Gabe, why'd you stop?" He shook his head and opened a door on his left. "Stay in here, I have to go and deal with something fairly quickly, when I get back we'll discuss what's going on." Akieen blinked as he ushered them into the room, it was large, rounded and hollow, empty except for her and Kayin, she pulled a high backed chair out and sat down. Out side the room Gabe pulled a guard to the side. "What's going on with our guests?" "They are being watched Sir, like you asked." "Watched how?" "We're keeping them under surveillance. Isn't that what you wanted?" "No you fool, I wanted them to be watched to make sure they didn't get into trouble. They are our guests, not prisoners." "But Sir, they are-" "I do not care, you know what I am do you not?" "Of course Sir." "You know what I can become?" "Yes Sir." "Good, then I suggest you and the rest of guards know that they are to treated with respect, not discrimination." The guard nodded and rushed off to spread the word. Akieen looked up as the door opened again and Gabe stepped in. "Gabe...what is it your not telling me...?" He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I can still hear talk of what's going on from the angels on high, there are other sanctuaries that you can go to, they can give you shelter, food, water, and information just as I'm going to do. Raphael is is the closest after here. Go there when your finished with what ever it is you need here." "...Gabe..." "Those of us fallen from grace can easily turn into demons if we don't hold our purity." Akieen nodded slowly. "So what information do you have for us?" Gabe shook his head slowly. "Go and get some rest, I'll tell you after dinner tonight. If anyone is after you they'll have to go through me and my ilk first. And you know that none can step foot here if I haven't invited them. Rest easy for now friend, in due time I'll give you the grave news. There's a library, the larder, the training grounds, all of it is at your use right now. You've all been thrown together with little to no knowledge of each other. Get to know your companions for now, then, when all of you are ready, we'll give you the bad news." Akieen sighed. "Why does this not encourage me?" "It's not meant to. But, you know as well as any, the best way a team works together, is if they known each other's strengths and weaknesses. Also, I know two of your group are Lycanthrope?" Akieen nodded slowly before frowning. "Two? I only knew of one. Who is the other?" "He's been lurking around here for a few days. I allowed him in thinking he was making contact with you. He's been holed up with the other wolf." "Great, just what we need, strays."  Gabe chuckled. "Stay til the moon passes, we'll keep them safe from the others." Akieen shook her head. "No Gabe, we can't linger. If the full moon breaks while we travel, I'll handle it." "Akieen, you can choose whether-" "I change or not, I know. If it happens, I can change and keep them in check. Alpha mess an all that." "I thought you hated pulling that." "You know I do. But I'll use it to keep others safe if need be." He nodded and opened the door once more allowing them to leave. "Rest easy friend. Come nightfall, the conversation will get serious." She nodded and walked away, watching as Kayin walked back towards the way they had come, no doubt to find Lief. She doubted he had seen someone like him in all his long years. Smiling she walked up the stairs to her room and opened the door. Without waiting she trudged to the bed and flopped face down on it, snoring lightly, almost instantly.      Alright, small down time while I get some thoughts together and wait for the last poster. 

I really would like to stay as close to home on this as possible...

Thats the thing though, the virus either changes or kills its victims...and the infected are to rabid and feral to breed, even with each other. That's the reason I had never brought hybrids up or much less thought of them to be honest...Lemme see what I can think of with the hybrid thing tonight and I'll get back with you. I just gotta figure out something to make it work. That's all.

yeah I remember, just not sure how we would work him in.

For the predictability, I'm sorry, it kinda can't be helped. I had originally had a lot more and better ideas for this before finding out about my mother being sick, but they kinda flew out the rear window when I got the news. I'm getting a few of them back as we're going. The Angels are part of it, I'll just let it be known that there are between 4-6 different sanctuaries in the states that we'll be hitting before we probably heading to Ireland or Scotland. Haven't decided which yet.   As for the full moon, I actually wasn't sure what to do with that, since Akieen isn't effected by it like most were's are. But we do need to work it in at some point. 

Reaper I sent actually just sent you a PM on the subject.    And second note. As predictable as some of you might feel the story is right now, it's still in the beginning phases. But it's going in the exact direction that I want it to go in at the moment. Sorry for the dissapointment(if there is any) that we aren't diving head first into Russia. Still have a few things to deal with in the states. Once that's done we'll move on BUT, we're not heading to Russia any time soon. We'll get there in due time though, promise. 

Akieen walked slowly behind the others, til they all were in their rooms before she turned and looked at Malachai, her eyes narrowed. "Well played speech Mal...but I think we both know most, if not all of what you said is false...So, why don't you talk to me and tell me the truth. Why are you pushing ever so discreetly to Russia, when you and I both know where we should go next." "You haven't a chance if you go where I think your wanting to go. You have a half demon with you, and a Lich Lord. They would never allow such evil with in their walls." "They aren't evil, otherwise you would have never let them within your own walls Malachai. Now, tell me what's really going on here." "My dear, the Russian covens are expanding at an alarming rate, we've had no choice but to associate with them from time to time and things are starting to get heated. With the destruction of this city our resources are even less then before. We need to find new ways of living or we will cease to be." "So...wait are you telling me your working with them?!" "Lower your voice woman. And yes, for the moment, I am. They are fierce, much more so then my own family and I am not willing to risk them to such monsters" "Yet you'll risk them to the infected?" "I had to, it was in order to keep you alive. If you had come to harm, my house would have been demolished." "If-for? Wait...Malachai...why were you so curious on how to make another of my kind?" "I made a deal, to keep my home, my family safe I had to give them what they wanted. What he wanted." "He...you mean...Malachai, are you working for Rasputin now?" "The Russian covens are his protectors of sorts. He supplies them, they keep him hidden. He wanted the information. I had to give it to him my dear." "You just sold me out in other words...your some friend...I can't believe this...do you even have any idea what you've done?" "I had to. My family-" "Is royally fucked now Malachai. He killed every human in the city. What's gonna happen when they ones you have living with you now die? You'll all become feral and eventually turn into the wild animals you used to be known as." "Our humans will not die so easily." "What do you mean?" "We give them doses of my blood to sustain them." Akieen paled and lost her breath for a short moment. "Your making Golems...HUMAN golems to keep your selves alive? Are you mad Malachai? I thought the whole purpose of your house was coexistence  What happened to that?" "It is an old fantasy Akieen. Humans still fear us and will never accept us. Rasputin tends to rid the earth of humans and make us the supreme beings." "Supreme...can you even hear your self right now? If he kills all the humans how will you live? Your Golems? They'll die eventually too ya know." "He does not intend to kill them, they must cross over. If not, then they will be dealt with." "Cross over...? You mean change. They either become what we are, or they die. This is madness Malachai. And what of the other Covens, what do they think?" "The Elfik is being more then difficult, but the others are slowly gaining ground with the idea." "And you? Your alright with this?" "I do not need blood to sustain me Akieen. I am an original. And therefore I can live with out it. Though I will be weaker and more aggressive. It's doable." "And the rest?" "They will wither with the days." "So you'll just be alone....isn't that why you made your coven? So you wouldn't be alone?" "I will not be. He intends to create more of us like my self." "Mal...why is it that you've never taken a wife? Or had children? Isn't it because you never wanted to put your own children through what you went through? The blood lust? The feeling of dying slowly, painfully yet still being awake for it? Of growing colder each day until your heart beats no more? You've told me your horror stories friend, just as I've told you mine. And your going to let them do that to me? I'll become nothing but a breeding dog. All my children will be taken from me and trained into what he wants, dogs, trained to do what he wants, to transform to protect him. But then they'll have to go through what I went through..." She took a shuddering breath, her nerves high. "A hundred years of night after night transformations, every night feeling your bones break and reposition them selves, until it stops. Then another hundred years learning to control your anger, learning to keep in in check. Fifty years of dealing with your senses going wild, Seventy five of trying to keep the animal side of your self at bay, and then even more years of learning to block out the pain of transforming..." Malachai looked away from her slightly. "I didn't have a choice my dear." "Yeah you did, you just chose wrong. I'm getting us our of here. We're not safe." "They won't come for you! He needs you to come to him." "Which I won't do! I won't lead these people to their deaths! I'll take them some where safe where we can figure out our next move. But not here. You've lost your edge old man. And your going to pay for it with the lives if your coven." "How dare you!" She shook her head and turned to walk up the stairs when he grabbed her wrist and spun her back around, his eyes boring into her's. "Are you trying to put me under Mal? Really?" She feel her teeth begin to hurt as her anger began to bleed out, her restraint slipping at being betrayed by such an old friend. "I suggest you let me go Mal, or this might get ugly." He let out a low his, the pupils of his eyes slowly turning into narrow slits. Sighing she let some of her anger go, her blue eyes bleeding into the violet as her canines elongated and her nails sharpened. Growls emitted from deep with in her chest as she stared back at him, her hand shooting out and grabbing him around the neck; lifting him off the floor. "Malachai, I'm warning you this one time, since my anger is starting to get to me. Do not get in my way of leaving or your children will be picking up the pieces I leave off the floor. Understood?" He let out another low hiss as she lowered him back to his feet. "I'd rather not kill an old friend." He straightened out his shirt and huffed. "Your not going to win this Akieen. He's more powerful then you can imagine." "And I'm the only true were wolf Mal...you ever think that amounts to something? No, you just gave up all hope as soon as things looked bad. You never stopped to think the fight might be worth it in the end. And because of that, your losing your coven. He'll use you, til you can do no more for him, then he'll kill you and all you hold dear." "What choice do I have Akieen?" "Help me get them to safety, help me kill him off for good. Don't roll over just yet, or do you want to go out as a coward?" The rage filled hiss that came from him made her smirk. "I didn't think so. Come sun rise we leave, and head North. I'll take them there, where we'll be safe, and can think of what to do next." "You certainly don't plan to take them there? You honestly think he'll let you in?" "Gabe won't have a choice...he owes me." "And a half demon...will he let such a creature onto the grounds?" "He's not evil. He won't be able to stop him." Malachai shook his head slowly. "I hope you know what your doing... Gabrielle won't be pleased with you bringing such monstrosities as these onto holy ground. Angels have a tendency of being funny that way." "Like I said, he owes me." "And what favor would an Angel have to a were wolf?" "I saved his life when he fell from grace. I found him in the alley. He owes me his life. Therefore, he'll protect ours." "Can you get there in time?" "I don't know. But I have to try. If there was ever a person who could tell us where to go next, it would be him." "I heard he has a guide there as well. Apparently it is a misfit among the Lycanthrope." She raised an eye brow. "Oh? Go on." "I do not know in great detail. But he is said to be some experiment gone wrong or something of the sort." "Right, I'll keep an eye out. For now, I need rest. Good night Malachai." He nodded as she went up the stairs, turning he looked at one of his daughters and nodded. "Call him. We can not allow her to leave the manor before he arrives. She's all he wants. Once we hand her over, we'll be safe. Understood my love?" The young girl nodded slowly. "But father...is she not a friend of yours?" "Sometimes little one, you must choose your loyalty, and mine will always be to my family first. Now, go and summon him!" She nodded nervously and scurried off as Malachai looked up the stairwell. "The sleep root placed in their food and drink tonight will have taken effect by now. They should stay asleep til sunrise, and by that time. It'll be to late." He sighed heavily, not wanting to betray his friend, but wanting to lose his family even less.    Akieen shook the grogginess from her head as she looked out the window, the others already in her room as she told them to be before they had all gone upstairs. "Did you all drink the water I had in my bag?" They all nodded, looking somewhat confused. "Good, we have to leave. NOW." Mikhail frowned. "Are we going to Russia so soon?" "We're not going to Russia at all kiddo, it's a trap, they want us to go there. No I have a safe location we can go, with most likely some more reliable sources." Kayin shook his head. "Why not take us there first?" "No time. Hell hounds are fast, faster then most of us. We need to move, quietly. Dark, can you silence the room?" "Considering it done, but might I ask, where are we going?" Akieen took a deep breath before letting it out, her cheecks puffing with the motion of it. "Sanctuary." Dark paled slightly. "A-are you serious? They'll kill most of us on sight." "No, they won't. They know me, and the leader owes me." Dark shook his head, his eyes still wide. Sighing Akieen went to her window and yanked it open roughly, motioning for them to follow. One by one they slipped out and followed her quickly as she led them out of the decimated city towards the country to the North. It was well after sunrise when they began to get close. "See that hill? That's where we're going." Kayin looked up and grunted. "It's bright." "Yeah well...you might not like it there." "Let me guess, it's cold?" She let a smirk play on her lips as she shook her head and answered him. "No, and it's not hot either. It's holy ground. But you should be fine since your not pure evil. Your human too." She saw him stop momentarily before he picked up his pace and came up beside her. "Where exactly are you taking us woman? Are you mad? Holy ground?" "You out break is very uncharacteristic of you Kayin. I have to say, I rather like it." She almost laughed out right as he seemed to hide his face in the collar of his jacket. "No I'm not mad. The owner owes me his life. And if he says it's alright then you'll be allowed in." Kayin looked sideways at her, her long hair was pulled back off her neck in a ponytail, a small smile graced her features. "And who is the owner?" "Gabe." "And who is she?" "He not she. He's a fallen Angel.  Kayin did stop this time, his face set in the most amount of shock she had ever seen from him.  "Your trying to get us killed." She stopped and looked back at him. "No, I'm saving us. The only people allowed in are the people Gabe lets in. Now, if we waste any more time with stupid talk, Malachai's coven will catch up to us. So moving along!" She turned and continued, Kayin falling towards the back of the group. Another 20 minute walk had them at the gated of a large castle looking house, which seemed to be built into the hill side.  "Yo! Someone wanna open the door?!" A young man hung his head over the wall and took her in with wide eyes. "Aki? Is that you?" She chuckled remembering the young man from being a boy the last time she hid here. "Sure is, feel like letting me and my friends in?" He looked them all over and frowned. "Some of them are kinda Shady Aki...Lemme get the boss." Akieen leaned on the stone sighing. "...yeah, you do that..." Waiting a few more minutes she yelped as the wall she was leaning against moved inward, allowing the doors to open. A large, muscled man strode forward, his dark brown hair cut close, and his well trimmed beard framing his squared jaw. "Who the hell are you to show up after 20 years and demand we let you in? Do you have any idea how empty our larders were the last time you left you flea bitten beasts?!" "Yeah yeah, good to see you too Gabe, look I gotta a problem." He continued walking forward, towards Akieen who had her eyes shut and her pinky finger in her ear as if she didn't have a care in the world. What she didn't see was the large fist poised in the air, or it hurtling towards the top of her head. "Ow! What give Gabe?!" "That oughta knock some sense into that thick canine head of yours. What kind of mess are you in this time." Akieen lowered her head like a scolded child as she rubbed the sore spot on her head for a moment. "Can we come inside and talk? I'm on a time constraint here Gabe." It was then he decided to take in the rest of the people with her, his eyes narrowing slightly at each in turn. "Mighty rowdy bunch you have with you...is there a reason you bring such evil to my door?" "They aren't-" "Their kinds are Akieen. You want me to harbor such creatures?" "You harbored me!" "I owed you my life! Which I paid my debt for when you came to me last time half dead! Explain!" The world seemed to dim in sound as his voice echoed, and she could hear Kayin cringe slightly. "Worse yet, you bring a demon to my door!" "He's human too Gabe! I need your help, it's about Rasputin!" Whatever the man was about to say got choked in his throat, looking from one to the other, his eyes lingering on Kayin for a moment longer he sighed. "Fine, but if any trouble is caused, you'll be dealt with by me. Understood?" She nodded slowly.  "I can handle them Gabe. Swear it." "I'm not asking, I'm telling you. Now, hurry inside. I'll have some of the boys take your companions to accommodations. You on the other hand, and the demon, come with me." "Why-" "I'll not have a demon running around with me watching. Understood?" She sighed and nodded giving Kayin an apologetic look as they slowly moved with in the thick stone walls. 

Akieen stiffened as she felt the air shift, she shuddered in her wolf form letting out a growl, Malachai pressed to her back. "You felt it as well then my dear." Her voice was deep and graveled as she answered. "Who wouldn't...you don't think..." "It is not a presence I fear child. It is friend not foe." She nodded and growled as Malachai hissed, a infected snapping it's jaws at the elder Vampire, baring his own fangs Malachai threw the beast off him self, slumping forward onto his knees in his own exhaustion. The battle had been going for hours, though it seemed like mere moments. In his age Malachai was getting tired. Akieen saw red as she caught another infected trying to lunge for her old friend. Growling dangerously she dropped to all fours and stood over the worn out vampire. her hulking form covering him as she protected him. None of the others were close to her as a swarm of infected surrounded her and the elderly vamp, baring her teeth she refused to move as a few moved in. Snapping her jaws in warning one or two of the lower class infected seemed to take the message and back away slightly, til the larger ones moved forward giving them confidence back. Having had enough she reared back on her hind legs, picked up Malachai and threw him upward, extending his claws the old man stuck to the ceiling much like a cat.  Akieen shifted her attention back to the mob staring her down. "You all really don't want this problem..." Kayin's voice sounded to her left. "I doubt they care. I've not given them the chance." She could see small sparks coming from the half demon as he whipped blood and gore from his blade and claws. Looking around she wanted to cry, so many of Malachai's children had been killed...and these things...they were essentially her own children in a way...born of her blood... letting out a strangled howl she plowed into them, sending many on their back. She ripped into them relentlessly, gore and chunks of flesh and bone covered the floor and walls around her, large tears escaped her eyes as she went through what was left of the horde, dragging some with her that refused to let go. Barracus' own minions taking care of any stragglers that she left in her wake. Pinning the last infected down she slowly began to transform back into her human state, ripping it's throat out, bringing it's spine along with it. Her face streaked with tears as she looked up, her pale pink hair stained red and hanging in wet tresses across her body keeping her somewhat modest as she backed away from the dead body, bringing her knees to her chest as she sat on the blood soaked tile of the main hall. Malachai walked over to her, and drapped a blanket across her shoulders to cover her, looking up at him her ice blue eyes glared with so much hurt, that the older man could see the physical pain she was in.  "Come along young ones, we'll get you clean and fed. This night has been pressing for all of us. I think we all need a small rest." Akieen shook her head and looked out the window as the sun's rays began to lighten the darkened sky, the light tinted red from the death of that night. "We need to look for survivors..." "My child...if there are any, they will find us. Our house is very well known in this part of town. Even if they do not know what we are, they know we provide shelter and protection." Akieen nodded, then shook her head. "...This mess...Mal...what are you-" "My children and I shall see to this deification. You and your companions need to rest." She opened her mouth but closed it as Darian dropped down beside them, his face sullen, Malachai looked up at him in shock before nodding. "My dear...I'm afraid I have sad news to tell you..." She looked up at him, her face already swollen and red from her emotions. "The human you brought with you...he- He perished in the battle..." Akieen stood now, her eyes wide, not caring of her state of undress as she shook her head. "What?! I thought you said-" Darian cut her off. "I tried, he kept going on and on about him having a job to do, he pulled out a pistol full of these-" He handed her a small bullet "And starting firing off...it only seemed to drive the beasts mad, they swarmed me and I couldn't...I couldn't save him in time..." Akieen nodded before she pushed her hand into her hair, it was beginning to dry and become crusted with the blood and gore of the fight. "Malachai, I need a shower...and a change of clothes." The old man nodded and summoned one of his daughters to help her, she followed the younger vampire up a stairwell, looking over her shoulder at the others as she did so, they all looked exhausted, and all of them were covered in blood from head to toe...all but Barracus who stood mourning his shredded top hat. They had been through hell already, but she could at least say this much...when needed they all organized well with one another. Sighing she entered the large room, she could smell the steaming water before she even saw it. "I asked for-" "The bath is to help loosen some of the blood from your skin and hair Lady Akieen. The shower is waiting." Akieen hated being addressed that way but nodded none the less and sighed as the girl left.  Dropping the bloodied blanket to the floor she walked in and submerged her self into the copper bathtub instantly, her thick hair floating on the surface of the water. Finally coming up for air she scrubbed her face hard and looked up squaking as the hulking form of a man in widow made her frown, the wind blowing in his scent.  "Darian..." "You need to know something before my father decides to keep it from you..." "What Darian?" "He knows..." With that, the man back flipped out her window and out of sight, Akieen paled suddenly...Did Malachai know of her only secret...the only one she had kept to her self? No one should know but her...a curt knock on her door made her jump. "Who is it?" "Might I intrude child? You've been in there for nearly an hour now." Had that much time really passed? It felt as if she had just gotten into the room...into the bath. Sighing she nodded knowing he could not see her through the door. "I suppose." The door creaked open allowing Malachai to enter slowly, his hand resting on a small silver cane he looked to use, though never needed. It was all for show she guessed. "I fear I need to talk to you about something dear. New information has reached me and I confess I am rather intrigued." "Ask away old friend." Malachai nodded slowly as he pulled a chair to the doorway of the bathroom, staying behind the cracked door.  "I've heard a wild rumor of you being able to create another of your kind." Akieen growled low in her throat. "I don't have the ability to do that Malachai. And you know I won't even if I did." Malachai nodded slowly knowing that was going to be her answer. "But if you did know of a way...would you reveal it to a nosy old man?" "What would he gain from knowing?" "As to why one of his oldest and most beautiful friends has yet to cure her loneliness." "I'm not lonely Mal. And...there is a way. I just refuse to put someone through it..." "And?" Akieen hesitated for a moment before sighing. "I'd have to find love first Mal...something I doubt a creature like me will find." "You must procreate... mustn't you?" She remained silent giving him all he confirmation he needed, leaving her room she was very much aware of how alone she was, and how right Malachai might have been. But then she recalled the small group she had waiting down stairs and sighed as she rose from the bathtub and rinsed off in the shower. Her own floral/feminine scent filling the bathroom. Stepping out and drying off she slowly moved back down stairs to see the rest of the small team cleaned up and in new cloths provided by Malachai and his coven. Barrucus was sporting a new suite and matching top hat which he seemed pleased with. She descended the stairs, the clothes she received fitting her well enough. The tight long sleeve shirt, being a pale baby blue, flared sleeves covered her hands as a black vest hugged her mid-drift and tapered into her hips. The dark skinny jeans disappeared into a pair of tall brown leather boots. Her hair, still wet hung around her shoulders in a pale curtain. Malachai met her at the bottom of the stairs. "There is a meal waiting for us in the dining room. We shall discuss matter there." She nodded and followed him, the others following. Once seated at the table Malachai folded his hands together and rested his chin on them. "I have information pertaining to your target." She nodded, her heart still heavy from death of that night. "You were saying something about that before, what exactly do you know that we don't?" "There are keys to opening this gate, tonight was the first of many. Each key of the gate must be accented with a blood offering. But this offering must be on a large enough scale to satisfy his master." "The Devil him self." Malachai nodded and sat back as the food was brought forward. There was enough there and something for everyone's tastes. Akieen, surprisingly ignored the food though her stomach growled in anger at being denied nourishment  It wasn't until a plate was set in front of her did she come out of her musings somewhat to look up at the person who had set it down.  Kayin nodded to her as he walked away, silent and stoic as usual as long as she had known him, looking down into the plate she saw with some surprise a large, rare steak as well as few vegetables. Shaking her head slightly she picked up her fork and slowly began to eat, her mind going over what Malachai had said... She suddenly choked on the bite she had taken looking up at him. "You mean...Mal...you don't mean..." "This city was the first key...the entirety of it was massacred last night before our battle. Darian has confirmed this information. There is not a single man, woman, or child left alive out side these walls..." Akieen dropped her fork onto her plate...the information numbing her body. "A-and how many more of these...keys...does he need Malachai...?" "666..." "...Thats...he'd destroy so many cities...so many lives?" "If not the entire world my dear. Now, I am not sure if that information is true, but it seems the keys are indeed true as this city is no more...the amount is still unknown." She nodded. "We'll speak more of it later young one. Right now, fill your stomachs and rest while you have the chance. Tonight you will need to leave for your journey." She nodded, picking up her fork, she began to push her food around; her mind still mulled down by all the events and all the information she had given, and received in just a short amount of time. 

xD sounds about right Allamorph. And when you think about it that way, your probably right. 

I have a few this year to be honest. Some more personal goals then resolutions...like losing and keeping off a bit of weight. :/ Or trying to get back into my training so I'm not so out of shape. But here's a small list...it's much bigger then this...I have a lot to do this year. lol.    #1. I want to try and be healthier. Eat, live, and think healthier. Not just in a food kind of way.     #2. I want to be closer to my family. I want to be closer with my kids, my Mom(since things have gotten a little tense there) I want to reconnect with my Dad and try to connect more with my new family.     #3. I want to let go of things that have been holding me back. All the pain from the past, keeping me down, all the mistakes I've made, and the things I wish I hadn't done. I want to stop thinking about all that and just let it go. Some what of a hard task for me. >.>    And #4. I want to make the most this year, and not regret anything when the next new year rolls around. I've spent every new year for the past 8 years wishing I had done something different, wishing I hadn't gone through with this or that. But this year, my goal is to just be happy and make the most of things and not worry about the what ifs or the could have beens.    So...there are a few of my less personal resolutions. What are a few or yours? ^^

I read about them trying to picket the Sandy Hook funerals, there was talk that they were actually there and were going to, but supporters(locals, firemen, police, and a few good natured biker gangs decked out in leather) made a human wall around the funerals to keep them out. Supposedly once they saw the bikers, and other supporters they re-thought their actions and decided not to go through with it.    *shakes head*  I just don't understand how a person or persons can have so much hate for useless things. How can a single person scrounge up this much hate and bring it all together.  What means do they have for their end...? And is it worth it for all the hurt they cause...? 

The Enemy has dropped out. I'm moving us along now. Sorry for the delay. But life happens. ^^ Christmas and important stuff with my mother came up. But things are smoothing out so hopefully I'll be able to keep some inspiration. 

Akieen blinked rapidly, not sure how to handle the newer creature in the house, she opened her mouth to speak, but surprised the entire group as a loud growl bubble forth. Her canines extended fully as she growled more, the scent wafting through the air one she had smelt before, and what followed she was not looking forward to another meeting with them.  "Out the back, now." They all looked back at her seeming confused til Mikhail stood, his shoulders squared, she also saw Kayin stiffen as well, Mikhail looked at her. "What is that?" "That? That would be Hellhounds. The devil's bloodhounds. We need to move now." She moved towards the back, throwing open the door only to snap her jaws in irritation and let out a growl as a tall man stood in the door way swinging a pocket watch.  "Darian, must you do that to me?" He smiled showing small, pointed fangs, a low growl came from Mikhail. "He's a tick." Akieen shook her head as Darian frowned at the name. "He's a friend, and ally. Dar, there are-" "Hounds, I know. I heard them. Follow me, I can get you out of here safe. Even the human." Ivil turned pale as the door to the shabby apartment began to shake as if something were trying to bust it down. "You need to hurry. Aki, you can either fight these beasts, or you can follow me." Akieen growled and turned to the others. "Move, now. Fighting these things in broad daylight is maddness." Kayin crossed his arms. "And why is that?" She bared her teeth at him, her eyes turning violet in her anger. "Because we can't see them!" They all looked back at the door as it cracked, growls and snapping jaws could be heard on the others side as deep, jagged claw marks marred the tiled floor. Darian nodded. "Right,this way." Leaping from the balcony he landed on the street gracefully, Akieen grabbed Ivil and nodded to the others. "Let's go." Just as they all readied them selves for the jump the door behind them shattered into splinters. Without waiting Akieen threw her self off and landed on her feet, the others hot on her heels, as soon as she landed Darian streaked away, his scent giving her a clear path of where to go. "This way!" Still hauling Ivil with her she sprinted after Darian, hoping the others were behind her. After what seemed like a short run they came to a large, elaborate building, classical music could be heard from within.  "A tick den? You expect us to be safe in there?" Akieen looked over her shoulder at Mikhail. "Vampires and our kind are not like they are in your home kid. We actually get along here." She ushered them all inside, listening, watching for any signs of the Hellhounds, following once everyone was inside. The room was decorated in gold and white, beautifully accented with dark bronze furniture and drapes. "Not bad Darian, how did you allow us in but not them?" He pointed behind her, she could clearly see a line of mixed dust lining the doors and windows. "Ash, from the old sanctuary that burnt down all those years, mixed with brick dust and salt. Should keep most enemies out." Akieen nodded as she looked around the home of the Corvus clan, looking back at Darian she heaved a sigh. "I take it the elders have heard?" An old, thick and raspy voice called from the stairwell behind them. "Rasputin as been revived and it planning on opening Hell's Gate." Akieen tilted her head from side to side. "Ehh, something like that yes." The elder chuckled and moved forward embracing her. "Old friend, you haven't aged a day. How are you?" Akieen returned the embrace with a soft laugh. "I'm getting by, and your much older them me Malachai, therefore you are aged." She chuckled as he nodded and crossed his arms behind his back with a smile. His bright green eyes twinkling with his smile. Akieen shook her head, the only way to tell the clans apart were their eyes. Corvus were known for their Glowing green eyes, Elfik for their piercing blue, Taki for the animalistic yellow, and Agaline, for the demonic red.  "So, why harbor us Malachai?" "You are an old friend Akieen, you are an original and must be protected. Also, I hear you all are going to try and stop this madman?" Akieen frowned. "You have good ears." "Thank Darian, he's been my ears for me." She rolled her eyes, remembering another small fact about the Corvus clan, interclan telepathy. Each young from the elder could communicate with their creator. Sighing she finally put Ivil down, who looked nervous which in turn made the elder chuckle. "Do not be frightened young man. Our kind no longer kill humans for the need to live. We have our own people who live among us to allow us to feed when it is needed. We nourish them and keep them healthy. They live out their lives in luxury and comfort. All we need is to take blood from them once a week in order to sustain our living." Ivil seemed to calm down, and Akieen couldn't help but notice that he was the only one out of the two stressed team mates that had. Mikhail was still tense and clenching his teeth. "I see you have brought a young one with you Akieen. He is not like the rest. He seems to have better control of his poison then the others." "He hails from Russia." "I see, interesting. Well, darkness is upon us. Please, take rest and relax before you begin your hunt. Food is being prepared in the kitchens as we speak. I could talk them into adding a few red meat dishes." Akieen felt her mouth water instantly. "Malachai, you certainly know how to charm a lady." She put her arm over his shoulder and began to follow him, stopping as howls rent the air. The hair on the back of her neck stood on end as Malachai let out a hiss. "Abominations. All of them." "Forgive me Malachai. Had I known-" "You trusted to easily child. Knowing comes with age." More howls came from all around them, as hisses came from Malachai's children as they entered the main hall, Mikhail getting more tense as more entered. "Akieen, were you followed?" "Hellhounds..." Malachai shook his head. "These are no Hellhounds dear, these are the human spawn that ravage this earth like a plauge." He cracked his neck as the lights went out sending them into darkness. "Let them come. My children have already hidden our humans away in safety, we will hide your's as well and face these beasts as we always have. Head on with fangs barred." Akieen nodded as two younger vampires took Ivil away to hide him somewhere safe. "He will not be harmed. I assure you." "I trust you Malachai. Is Darian-" "He is outside now, scanning the area, he says there are hundreds of them, smelling of blood and death already. He says the city is silent as if death as ravaged her tonight. A slaughter has taken place this night my dear. Rasputin as made his first move." "What do you mean?" "I shall explain after we live through this." She nodded as the window above them shattered, raining glass on them, Darian landing on his feet, his eyes glowing dangerously as were wolves dropped down among them as well. The fight was on as Akieen felt her skin stretch tight, her bones crack and break as her screams of pain turned to howls of anger, her large white form charged through the infected, towering over the hunched beasts as she grabbed one and threw him through the nearest window.