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Post by Thea on Oct 1, 2022 2:19:11 GMT -5
Vampires.
Brook shouldn't have been surprised. Since becoming a member of the supernatural world she came to know that there was a lot more that went bump in the night than just shifters. It has been years since she was first changed, giving her ample time to get used to the ebb and flow of life as one that went bump in the night, and she was sure that she's bumped shoulders with any sort of mythological creature out in the street. But she guessed that it was because of the one unspoken rule in the community that everyone at least should abide by: don't tell the humans. And with half of said community looking like humans, there wasn't exactly an out-in-the-open way to say, "Oh, you're like me? Cool."
Even so, when Killian told her the news of what happened in France, she was momentarily stunned. Then she became concerned. It had her wanting to take the flight there with Killian so that she could help watch over Hallie. Since she admitted to herself and her fiance that she was in love with him, it had opened the door to a family that she didn't have to hide from. They welcomed her in with open arms and bright smiles. Killian's nieces and nephews called her "aunty" and their mothers called her "sister". No "in-law" needed. She wondered not for the first time if that was what it was like to be a pack. And in a way, the Constantines were their own pack. They sure were big enough for it. And they always looked out for family.
That was why her mate was seven time zones away. He landed the night before. He was sure to text her that he made it safely. Much to her relief. She still hated that she wasn't able to go with him; she wasn't given enough time to ask off, and she had to save her two weeks of vacation for the wedding. It was hard to sleep without Killian, and she was sure it was going to be like that until he returned. Even Bentley and Gyro seemed to miss him, with Bentley waiting patiently by the door and Gyro pacing the kitchen where Killian slipped him scraps. When she crawled into bed both the boys were quick to take up the vacant side of the bed. Brook had to wrestle the pillows out from under Bentley, cursing under her breath as she did because if anyone was going to sleep on her mate's pillows it was going to be her.
Now, she pulled into Jewel and Nathaniel's driveway and parked behind Avery's old bug, the last to get there because Bentley decided to run around half of their neighborhood instead of getting in the car. She had planned on getting there early but now she was ten minutes late. Exasperated was the best word she could find to describe how she was feeling, her anger at the damned mutt having deflated halfway there. She sent a quick reply to Killian's three texts asking where she was and stepped out with a "I need a break" sigh. "Come on, boys," she said a few moments later, fetching the hounds' leashes and walking toward the door.
Penelope was the one to answer the door when she knocked, hair in twin buns perched on the top of her head and a toothy grin on her face. "Hi Aunt Brook! Uncle Killian told us that you were going to be late."
Brook loved the young woman's nonexistent filter; usually, it made her laugh. Right now she was too busy wrestling for control of Bentley, who seemed to have forgotten his size as he sniffed wildly at the new scents. In hindsight she probably should have left him at home, but she wasn't the one to leave her dogs unattended for long periods of time. Unsure of how this family meeting was going to go, and too late to go back now, she had brought Gyro and Bentley. Though she did feel a little bit better when Jewel's southern-twanged voice rang down the hallway, "Berlioz, off the table! You're blocking the view of the camera!" She wasn't the only one having pet troubles.
***
Back in France, the d'Guillory Estate was locked down like Fort Knox.
Before most of her family left, Hallie watched as her beloved home away from home lost its quaint, peaceful quality and gained the vibe of a military bunker. The magicked boundary of keeping people with ill intentions at bay was modified to keep everyone out except for the Constantine family and those Jewel and Nathaniel have granted permission to access the estate. The spell Felicity and Sarah cast upon various stone statues her father purchased gave them life and the singular purpose of patrolling the estate's borders at night (so as not to freak the humans that helped harvest the plants out). Maddox now wore his suit of armor regularly, and Orville his doberman sat attentive at his side. There had been a new addition, as well. A mage whose magic came from the red pendant that hung around her throat, using her body as a conduit for its energy to be manipulated as she saw fit. And usually how she saw fit was by creating various weapons that could cut through steel.
Juliette Fletcher stood beside Maddox against the wall behind Archard, Killian, Eva, Hallie, and Davion, eyes straight forward and stoic as ever. In the small window of the screen in which everyone was sandwiched in to be seen by the camera, she saw the stranger's stormy gray eyes convey to her that she would really prefer to be anywhere other than here. Same, Hallie couldn't help but think, distantly hearing the commotion of Brooklyn coming in with her two dogs and Jewel yelling for the Maine Coon to get off the table.
As much as she loved her Uncle Killian and cousin Eva, Hallie felt like having all of her family rotate having to babysit her was a bit much.
Okay, it was unfair to call it "babysitting". After all, she was wearing a ring that was revered for its time-telling abilities and is kill-worthy. And the person - her mate - that was responsible for her parents locking down the estate was sitting right beside her. And her best friend was missing with no real evidence as to where she could have gone. But with two bodyguards, a magical force field, and walking stone statues, having her uncles and aunt stop their life to protect her not only had her feeling smothered, but guilty too. Her uncle had a wedding to plan, damn it. He should not be here wasting his time on her. At least Eva had another reason to come besides her.
"Everyone accounted for?" Jewel's voice asked after Bentley settled down with a bone in between his paws. Hallie stopped her bitter thoughts to come back to the present, staring at herself in the small window of the video call sandwiched between her uncle and mate. Eva sat on Killian's other side, while Archard was at Davion's. She knew that not everyone could be seen on the other end of the call, though figured that the rest of her family was there, including Aunt Ve and Uncle Andy - it was only right for them to be there, she figured, as this could potentially have an effect on the packs as well. She thought she saw her mother's sister and her mate there, too, along with her great-grandpa. But she couldn't be sure. There was just too much traffic over there.
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Post by Ventia on Oct 4, 2022 22:07:33 GMT -5
Evanna knew she shouldn't have felt the stirrings of jealousy at that specific moment of a very important family meeting that had brought the full family together and literally stirred shit up for each and every one of them, would change their entire lives from this point on, but alas she was only a girl at the end of the day. And boys always came first to the girls who were in love with them. She had been in love with Maddox Taylor for what felt like years now, since the moment they met, yes she played it cool and tried not to get attached, they lived basically on two ends of the planet, then her sister had gotten kidnapped and her father turned into a ass, and love at that moment just wasn't in store for her.
It didn't mean she stopped texting him, facetiming him, or thinking about him, falling even deeper in love with him, but watching her parents almost break about in those scary days made her feel so low and scared of what love was. When Penny came back with X and still managed to be the same lovavle sister she always was, when it was their love that began to heal the family again, when her father and mother started to get closer again, it was getting better again for her too but still something in her made her pause to take that final step. To commit to the guy who long since lay claim to her heart.
Now sitting there, on the edge of the long wooden bench, with Maddox standing in the background with another girl by his side, made all her insecurities and faults come to light. She was jealous. Getting both angry and sad all at once. It wasn't like Maddox hadn't talked to her up to that point, they said hi and he even hugged her before going for another patrol but still, it wasn't enough and now he was standing next to Juliette. A beautiful woman who was a mage. Who went on patrols with him. Who seemed to be wherever Maddox was in the last day and a half she's been here. She held back a groan, looking at the video screen past everyone's faces to where what little she could see of Maddox and Juliette.
When Killian finally heard the familiar happy yip coming from Bentley followed by a warning hiss of one of his brother's cats, he felt himself finally relaxing into the seat and then looking over Hallie's head not for the first time at her vampire mate, the man solely responsible for this mess. Nathaniel had given him the quick version of what had happened though the exact details of why Davion Raith, Crown Prince to the Throne, was able to freely move about with no signs of binds within the d'Guillory Estate was beyond Killian's comprehension.
Well maybe not, he thought again watching as Davion kept a close eye on Hallie by his side and was awfully pressed close to her side, taking full advantage of them having to be packed like sardines to be seen in the camera. Their eyes met and the man gave Killian a all too knowing smile before dipping down to whisper something in Hallie's ear, so low that within the noises of the small chatter on both ends, he couldn't hear. He narrowed his gaze at the man, wondering how every new member added to the family seemed to have a whole personality of their own, all equal to one another in wickedness sly and stubbornness.
He sighed, dreading the day he would have to deal with his own children's mates. He only hoped he could do as well as Nathaniel and Timothy. When he glanced back at the camera he could see Brooklyn walking past trying to get a look in. She immediately had his full attention and he leaned forward, taking the majority of the camera's view.
"Uncle Killian!" Evanna groaned angrily, poking him in the ribs since he was blocking her view of Maddox but he ignored it and gave Brooklyn a wide smile.
"Hey Kitten, missed me?"
"Ugh." Evanna could have face palmed herself, "language!" she scolded him.
"What?" Killian asked innocently, watching as Brooklyn's face flushed a fraction, it made his smirk turn sweeter. "You're not a child anymore, we're all adults here more or less, it's fine." He blew his mate a kiss before easing back letting everyone else come back into view.
"You have such a entertaining family, my dear Hallie, they're all quite charming." Davion mused with honesty watching them all, he knew many families and none seemed as close as the Constantine's were. If only Silvan were here to see it, he was sure the old man would have loved each and every one. Would cry tears of happiness to know he had such a large family waiting for him. A good family.
-
"It's basically a Pack Meeting." Katie said softly to her mother, they were sitting on the sofa the kitchen table and group just next to them. Jareth and Lynn sat next to them while Gem and Aiden were by Aunty Jewel. The grand living room was packed with people and animals now that Brooklyn arrived with her two dogs. She thought they were adorable and was just itching to go and give them some loving. But being a responsible adult, she stayed sitting and looking around the large house.
It was her first time coming here, to Uncle Nate's house, to think in the time since she's been away they had made a home this big for them. A family this large. She had spoken to Ruby, met Sybil, could see why Killian fallen for Brooklyn, why they both had fallen for their respected partners. She was so happy for them, happy that they had found their family again. Still, it was a bit overwhelming. Was this how it always was for Thea nowadays? She giggled, remembering her earlier comment about trading places. She wasn't sure now who was getting the better bargain.
"It practically is. Excuse me, I want to talk to Andy since we're all here." Ventia patted both her daughter's and son's knees then gave Lynn a warm smile before easing up and walking around the various bodies to where the group of men were standing by. Nathaniel, his two sons Dimitri and Lucian, Timothy, and Andy were all huddled in a circle by the tv.
She easily slid between Nate and Andy, catching the end of the conversation.
"-it's a shame we just finished the last final touches." Timothy was saying in his low voice, and Ventia watched as Nathaniel glanced on over to where Ruby and Sybil were standing near the kitchen table. Then he glanced at Brooklyn.
"We'll just have to wait. Let's try not to ruin their surprises but I don't want anyone out of Pack Territory." Nathaniel cupped Andy's shoulder, "I'm counting on those traps of yours Alpha. The last thing we need now if someone to try and raid our lands while we're not all here."
"I have a proposition on that subject," Ventia cut into the silence, meeting Andy's gaze and giving him her charming smile. They've been working closely in these last few years, and while Andy stepped up into the plate to become the Alpha of Nightstar Ventia hadnt...until now. Now she had more on her plate and with that she had a few plans as well. One that included Andy and the very large Constantine Family. She always seen them as hers as well, Nightstar and New Dawn being Sister Packs meant everyone was friendly with each other. Nothing exactly would change that much but she would feel better when they all got another reminder.
Nathaniel turned to look at Ventia and something in her tone made him knew she was up to something. He chuckled, then caught sight of Jewel's face from above the crowd. "I have a feeling I'll like that, for now let's start now that we're all here."
He gave them all a smile before sliding away, moving to where Jewel was and taking his place by her side. He glanced into the mirror, over at the estate it was definitely quieter than it was here but he could still see his lovely family and friends were all here together in this one moment. He raised his gaze, his palm finding Jewel's hip to cling on to, his arm warm around her back, he slanted his hips into hers and stared up at the room at whole. Filled with his family, his friends, his Pack.
"Thank you all for coming, I didn't want to make a dozen calls and have to repeat myself half a dozen time's more. There's no right way to say this, so I'll just get it started. The reason we've gathered here today is both to ensure the family's and Pack's safety and to make a plan of action against the Vampire Council that holds power in all of Europe. I hope this doesn't turn out to be in a war between the Vampires and Us but I believe we should be ready for every last possibility."
"The idea is this, when I return to France in two days, we will be paying the Council a little visit. I will be taking Hallie's Group with me, the rest I want to hunker down and protect each other in case they decide to make the trip over and try to harm our families when we're not all together. We've gotten the Council's Invitation for a Hearing however both Davion and I can agree they wont be playing by the book. Our priority is Hallie's safety in this, she is the new owner of Solomon's Eye, a Prophet to the Vampires. Originally they are supposed to be worshipping her, however we all know what that kind of power does to people, human or not."
"That's not all. Our son Jasper's mate Jade has gone missing as well. At this point we cannot determine if it was the vampire's doing or something else entirely. Which means we have to stick together more than ever for the unseeing future. Lock down the Packs. The less time outside the boundaries the better. More patrols, traps, Outsiders, any stranger poises a danger at this point, there is something big happening, I don't think it has all to do with the vampires. I want everyone to tell me anything that's been amiss, anything suspicious or any foreboding feeling, even if it may seem silly to you, to me it might become worthy pieces of information."
He paused about to go into another rant when the doorbell chimed once more. He frowned wondering who that could be, considering everyone was here already. Holding that last thought, he left Jewel's side and walked on over to the front door, his hand moving to his belt where he kept his gun nowadays always close. He peeked out and then frowned even more before taking his hand off his gun and opening the door full and wide for everyone to see.
"Well hello daddy," Jackson said sarcastically and ignored Rikara's slanted gaze, "I heard there was a family meeting, I'm so hurt you didn't decide to invite me. Yet again, getting kicked to the curb by my own father. Should have known eh? Alas, here we are. We are family, aren't we? Are you going to let me in?"
"You are my son Jackson. I just assumed you still didn't view me as your father. Why are you here? I don't have the time to deal with another brawl if that's what you're looking for."
"Relax old man, I come in peace. I want to introduce you all to Rikara, and I'd much rather do it before you all meet your untimely deaths, or no deaths seeing as how we all have a funny way of coming out on top. I take it I can come in now?" Jackson met his father's gaze, finding the shards of purple overtaking the yellow. How curious indeed.
"No one will be dying anytime soon, but yes come on in. Hello Rikara dear, pleasure to finally meet you. Thea's told me of you. Come in, we were just getting started."
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Post by Thea on Oct 8, 2022 1:03:57 GMT -5
Maddox was in love with Evanna as well.
It was something that crept on him slowly. Its subtle presence came with every text, call, and facetime, and stayed with him long after they signed off for the night, making a nest in his heart and biding its time. It wasn't until Evanna stepped onto the estate that that love made itself known. His chest constricted painfully, causing all the air in his lungs to escape him in a rush. His intestines twisted into intricate knots. And it wasn't until later that he realized that when she and Killian arrived his eyes had only been on her. No one else had his attention save for the woman that took up residence in his phone logs and headspace.
If he knew what she was feeling he would have told her that no one had his attention other than her. Because it was the truth. Juliette was a work associate, nothing more. And even then, Juliette wasn't known for having relations with anyone. If she was anything like her mother she had more important things on her mind.
He was trained to look ahead, a stone pillar that never moved, when he was on personal guard duty like this. And before most of the Constantines left Jewel and Nathaniel had updated his contract to protect Hallie as her knight. As much as Hallie hated it, she had gained a shadow in all things she did. Maddox felt for her, truly, but he understood why it must be done. He didn't mind it, especially since he was sure that Evanna would be with Hallie for the majority of the time. Even now, he was terribly aware of her, and broke his hardened facade when he heard her bicker at her uncle Killian.
Juliette's glance was admonishing when he felt it land on the quirk of his lips that threatened to let loose a chuckle. Yet he couldn't seem to school it back into place. For his time in the Order, nothing had him breaking like the Constantines, whose natural charisma and down-to-earth personalities had him feeling like he was a part of them. And that might be bold to say, especially since this was the first time he's met Killian. But if he had it his way, he would be joining them legally eventually.
Hallie groaned as well, giving her uncle a jab to the ribs with two of her knuckles as his efforts of leaning forward had her side being squashed against Davion's sturdy frame. Not that she minded, really, and she was sure - with how he had beat Archard to her side when they first sat down twenty minutes ago - Davion didn't mind either.
She was about to say something to her uncle when Davion bent toward her ear, his breath blowing against her skin. Instinctually, she turned her head toward him, so as to better hear him she told herself. But it was as if her body was naturally attuned to his. Like his golden suns for eyes, his aura called her her. She was hopeless against the pull. "Charming is a good word for it," Hallie murmured back, snorting softly. "And you wouldn't ever be bored at the get-togethers." That is, if her mother would ever approve of him. She had to admit: she had been scared for Davion's life that night. First with her father actually digging a blade in his back, and then her mother with death in her gaze. For what it's worth, Davion didn't back down from either of them. Even so, both her parents were changing.
Or maybe they hadn't changed at all, but showed her what they would do for their children?
***
Andy took the title of Alpha because ... well, he was Beta. It was his duty. He didn't want it. On the contrary he would love to go back as being the lovable ape that pulled practical jokes and pulled laughs out of his packmates. He didn't remember much of before his death, but he remembered what it had been like before the Nightstar's downfall. He was the jester of the court. Always entertaining, always making light of situations.
He knew when and where to be serious, as much as he didn't care to be. Though lately, he felt like he was always that way. Traps were set and reset, constantly rotating and becoming increasingly dangerous. He was on patrol from sun up to sun down. And he always did it alone. It was a risk he was willing to take, doing everything by himself; what if there was a hunter raid, and he was caught by himself? Yet he couldn't bring himself to bring anyone else with him and possibly get anyone else killed. This - the pack - was his family. And like any sensible family member, he wanted to keep everyone safe.
He felt like he was failing.
The smile he gave Nathaniel was tight and pinched. His eyebrows were furrowed, and he kept swaying softly side to side. His hair, now going past his shoulders, was currently up in a bun to keep it from his dark eyes. In the few years he's stepped up to the plate, some of his hair was leightening from black to silver - a testament to his shift. In the wild, silverback gorillas were adult males that headed a whole family, protecting them as their leader. The difference was, he didn't have silver in either shift until he became Alpha. That had been the same for his father when he started his own family, even though what he had couldn't really be called a pack. The silver meant ... dominance. That even though he wasn't the tallest or the biggest of the males of his pack, he was certainly the one in charge.
He had nodded when Nathaniel cupped his shoulder. Then again when Ventia came up to them. "I'd be more than happy to see what you got, Ve," he said, his lips forming into a brief, friendly smile. Hallie's predicament was nerve-wracking to say the least, and as much as he knew that Hallie being in France was the safest bet, he wanted to bring her, Killian, and Evanna home. He knew that it was the animal in him. He couldn't help it.
Thea stood beside Jasper, who tucked himself into the farthest corner of the kitchen while still being part of the meeting. It was a good call, because from this position she knew her brother could see everyone that was in attendence. From Ruby and Sybil standing beside Avery, Penny and X to Brooklyn's still-blushing form telling Killian that yes, she did miss him but did enjoy him not being able to steal the blankets. Gem and Jewel stood by each other, speaking lowly as her mother pulled out one hand to show her strange new markings that appeared the night of the ambush, Aiden looking equally concerned attached to Gem's hip. Her great grandfather found a wall to lean against with Harley not too far away.
The house was definitely at full capacity. She didn't think that it could get any fuller without the walls bowing out cartoonishly. They certainly carried Nathaniel's voice he started the meeting. Thea watched everyone's faces, a mixed bag of concern, anxious, and worried for what the future might hold. Sybil held onto Ruby's hand tighter, pressing a cheek to her mate's arm. Jewel held onto Nathaniel's hip harder. At the mention of Jade Jasper's whole body tensed beside Thea, his eyes flashing the Constantine yellow.
She had the Guild looking for her, but still there wasn't anything that popped up yet. It was as if the girl had disappeared off the face of the planet.
The murmured conversations had stopped when Nathaniel took over the room, but they didn't start up again. Instead, some pairs of eyes opted to follow Nathaniel to the door as he opened it. Others looked at each other asking silently who could it be because everyone was here. Thea's phone buzzed once during her step-father's speech, then again to remind her that she had a message. So while Nathaniel went to answer the door she had pulled out her phone to see who was texting her right now - and instantly smiled.
It was a giddy kind of smile, one that if anyone called her out on she would deny vehemently. She couldn't just brush under the rug how the man at the bakery made her feel, though. It hadn't been long, their texting, but it was easy. And fun. A welcome distraction to her work days and care-free laughs to boot. She almost felt like she was in a coming-of-age movie, where the girl gets her crush's phone number after finding out he liked her too.
Her fingers were poised over the keys to shoot a quick text when she heard Jackson's voice. It had her head shooting up from her phone, as well as her mother's, shock coursing through her with an icy feel. Why was he here? And with the girl that looked just like her?
"Nathaniel," both Jewel and Andy said at the same time. However, each tone was different: Jewel'es was exasperated. Andy's was a warning.
"Not just yet," Andy said, voiced hardened as steel as he walked toward the door and the newcomers. His steps were sure as they carried him to stand in front of Nathaniel and Jackson. Twins if Nathaniel looked at least a decade younger. "How the hell did you get onto my territory?" he asked Nate's eldest. "Because you didn't ask me."
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Post by Ventia on Oct 9, 2022 22:31:29 GMT -5
"Why would I have to ask you." Jackson scoffed, easing his way in front of Rikara successfully blocking her from everyone's view and from the incoming threat. He didn't try to hide his smirk, knowing who the man was, "You can make as many land traps as you like Andrew Smith but they're all pointless to those with magic. Quite a security flaw don't you think in this day and age? I'm honestly quite impressed you all are still standing. One wrong move with a witch's family and you'd have quite the massacre on your hands."
Jackson chuckled darkly, cocking his head to look into the man's eyes, "Do you want to make such a mistake today?" His voice hardened as well, the warning clear in both his dark eyes and deadly promise, he probably shouldn't be messing with the man considering he did drop in uninvited and there was a house full of shifters and higher beings, but Jackson still believed he had a good chance of coming on top.
"That's enough Jackson. If you're going to continue acting like this, then leave."
"Awh and miss out on all the fun?" Jackson flicked his eyes at his father before returning to the dark ones of Andrew. "You know, if you wanted traps in the air as well, you could hire me. Food for thought. Now if you wish to show off your macho macho we can have a little fight for the ladies, I always want to show off in front of Rikara, however I am trying to be good this evening, and hurting you would only make Rikara angry at me tonight. I am trying to avoid that, seeing as how she is poking me in my back right at this moment."
He smiled sweetly, glancing back at her, "Mercy my sweet, I did promise you I would be good." He turned back to them, "Now are we done? I know a little of the Raith vampires myself. I'm sure I'll be as useful as any present." He chuckled again and tried very hard to not get angry and push his way inside. He looked into the house and saw Jewel and Thea watching him, then raised a hand and waved friendly at them.
"Really this is starting to get embarrassing." Jackson laughed again, moving his waving hand to scratch at his neck acting like the innocent gent he was.
"I see he's lively as ever." Ventia said as she came up next to Jewel, her best friend has told Ventia the stories and he was as cocky and arrogant as she had thought him to be. Still he had said something that made her ears perk to attention, and she was more than willing to make a positive out of a negative.
"Seems harmless at least for tonight. I'll keep a eye on him." She reassured Jewel and glanced down into the computer, looking at Hallie sandwiched between the others. Her body softened at seeing Hallie's warm smile and light snort coming from the laptop's speakers, she watched the pair of them could already see the spark that was there and felt happy that her god daughter life was kicking into gear. Yes it was a lot but it was going to be full of experiences and a great love if the look in Davion's eyes said anything about it.
"Hey you, how you holding up?" She asked Hallie, her voice getting the girl's attention.
Harley was coming out of the bathroom, she felt out of sorts lately since her time on the graveyard, even finding herself unwilling to leave France to return home with her family and to where Ludin would be. He had traveled back from his homeland just to make it to this meeting and to make it to her. It made her feel guilty, for wanting to hurry back to her mother and father's graves.
She rubbed her face tiredly stopping by Ludin's side, leaning on the wall herself as she cocked her head to the voices in the doorway. "Jackson decided to drop by?" Her memories of the man were vague, but she could remember the way she had felt all those years ago, scared and afraid for her father's life. She didn't know how to feel for him, and she was sure that was how everyone else felt as well, mainly because he didn't come by enough for them to get to know him better. Instead he would drop by or leave presents at their doors at the most random moments of their lives. Thankfully the harassing phone calls had stopped years ago. She sighed again, looking to her mother Jewel and her Aunt Gem, feeling like she should go to them both and protect them, to shield them from the mostly stranger's onslaught.
Yet she stayed by Ludin's side, fighting for a sense of balance between this life and the last, hugging herself trying to anchor herself in the now.
-
He was sitting at the head of a very long table in a grey room, the toneless voices of the old ones continued on in the background, sounding as boring as what they were speaking about. He yawned, leaning on his forearms scrolling through his social media while he waited for a text back from Thea. He was on her page now, what little she posted, looking at two large cats sprawled over her lap, lucky bastards he thought, his eyes following the curve of her thighs as much as the picture allowed him to.
He wanted to see her again. It had only been a few days since their meeting in the bakery and already she was stuck in his mind unwilling to get out like the minx she was. Lucifer flicked his fingers back to the previous page, to where their text conversation was, he eased up a little leaning on his elbows and began typing.
"Busy?" He sent first, waited only a second before writing a second message.
"Our conversations would go so much smoother in person. When will I be seeing you again?"
"Sire?"
"As much as I enjoy texting you Thea, I want to see you again as well."
"Lord Lucifer?"
"How about tomorrow? I'm off and would love to take you out on a date. Say yes Thea. I promise it'll be well worth it." He grinned as he sent the final message and waited for her answer.
-
"I can see that." Davion held his breath, she was so close to him her warmth was flooding through his side, warming his cold skin, he was sure if he had a heartbeat it would betray him and beat wildly as she glanced up at him so. Her eyes big and full, her lips soft and inviting, he gripped the back of the bench, where her hair brushed against the top of his palm, he released his breath wondering if it tickled her lips with how close their faces were.
The urge to taste those lips filled him, that need only getting intensified with every second by her side, but he didn't act on the matter, not only because they were in the middle of her family but mainly because it wasn't time yet. He wanted her to want him as much as he did her. He wanted it to be special, for Hallie to know it was a true kiss of wanting and not a scheme for her newly appointed powers and position.
"They love you very much, Hallie. It is a gift one should always cherish." He reached with his free hand and lightly touched her knee, he could feel Archard's eyes on him with the old man watching his every move but that didn't stop him from doing so. He patted her once then returned his arm back to his side waiting for the sudden commotion to die down.
"Jackson Nox?" He asked her then, the name sounding familiar, the son of a very powerful witch family and one whom Davion himself crossed paths with. His parents did as well. He frowned, not really knowing how to feel about him, he could never figure out if Jackson was with or against his parents and just whom it was that was dancing in the other's palm right where they wanted them to.
"He's related to you?"
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Post by Thea on Oct 11, 2022 0:04:53 GMT -5
Never had Andy felt such rage.
Looking back, he would wonder if it was because he was Alpha. It was evident that since he took up the mantle he was acting more on animal instincts than usual. Regardless of the true reason Jackson and Rikara came, the animal within absolutely did not like someone to come onto his territory uninvited. Adding fuel to the fire, this particular someone has invaded before, in hopes to kill one of Andy's own. His packmate. That was a crime that he could not forgive, both as family and as leader, regardless if Nathaniel treated Jackson like the prodigal son.
This was an outsider. A dangerous one. And he dares to be disrespectful and expect to get away with it because he has vital information about the Raith Vampires?
"What's embarrassing is that you dared show your face again after trying to kill your father thinking that I was going to let you come in without remembering that. This may be Jewel and Nathaniel's house but it rests on Nightstar lands. And while I respect your father to have him conduct this meeting, I am Alpha." It was times like these where he loathed being one of the shortest males of the pack. Nowhere close to the six-foot range, he could very well be overlooked in the sea of shifters behind him. Even so, he couldn't stand by idly without addressing this issue and laying down the law.
He could feel the urge to shift, hot and incessant, like there was lava pouring down on him from the tips of his hair to his toes. The gorilla half of him pounded its chest in challenge, begging to be released so that he could teach this rogue a lesson. It was evident that he was holding back, his muscles rippling just beneath his darkening skin. "Trust me when I say that it's not me that is making a mistake here. It's you that is threatening me and my pack by being here." His voice was getting more guttural. Already his teeth were becoming enlarged, jaw shifting wider to accommodate his fangs.
An arm snaked out from behind Jackson, causing Andy to look down at the cream-colored hand that waved slowly at him. He looked down briefly, confused, then watched as another arm braced against Jackson's side and attempted him to push him aside. After a brief battle of wills between the newcomers, a sharp toned, foreign phrase was used that sounded to the alpha like "Get out of my way". In the end, Jackson was still in front of the woman but he could see more of her now in the doorway.
"I am sorry," Rikara said in stilted English, nodding her head respectfully toward the king - or "alpha" as Jackson emphasized beforehand. "We meant no offense in coming. I am not from here and Jackson does not ... speak?" The last question was said more questioningly as she would like. But there were so many words in this language that had similar meanings. "To me about customs of those around us. I would have insisted in him coming to you first before. Jackson only wishes to help his family, Alpha Andrew Smith."
It was as if everyone was holding their breaths, waiting silently as the man that looked no more than his mid twenties contemplated her words. Rikara kept her chin down, yet kept her brown eyes on his darker gaze, watching him and conveying mentally that she, at least, meant no harm in coming here. She wasn't sure what to make of the shifters of Earth, however. He very well could attack still. She stood rigid, unmoving, treating him like she would an Orsar bull when his females were in heat, and they were unpredictable at best.
Finally, the alpha relaxed, teeth clicking together a few times to dispel the tension in his jaw. Like a balloon, he deflated, then nodded once. Slowly but surely, his body returned to normal. "Rikara, is it?"
"Yes, Alpha Andrew Smith."
"Call me Andy," he gave her a smile, a ghost of his usual jovial grin. "I was told you looked like Thea but I didn't believe it until now. You guys could be twins." Then he looked to Jackson, gaze hardening. "You are permitted to stay until after the meeting. Then I want you out. If I catch you here again without my say-so you are dead." He folded his arms against his chest and rocked back on his heels. "And that's not a threat either. That's a promise."
He let go of his arms and turned to walk farther back into the house, closer to Ventia, Jewel, and Gem. It was clear to everyone that he didn't want to hear anything else on the matter and his word was final.
"You prolly don't have to," Jewel murmured to Ventia, her Alpha and best friend. She was glad that Ventia finally took the title, though she worried what that would mean since the New Dawn couldn't hide behind Angus's and Azalea's names. There was going to be some uproar with the Deadlands, and possibly even a hunter raid or two to worry about in the new future. It wasn't that she doubted Ventia's abilities. On the contrary, she believed that Ventia could lead the New Dawn through anything that was thrown its way because she's seen her friend grown into Alphaship since everyone ... disappeared. Still, Jewel was a mother - it was only natural to worry. "Looks like Andy is ready to rip him a new one."
Which is fine with her. She never got over Nathaniel almost dying at his eldest's hand, and while her husband had already forgiven him, with the feeling that he deserved Jackson's wrath, Jewel couldn't get over the "what if". What if Jackson had succeeded? Would he have killed her and Harley and the rest of her children? Or if he wouldn't have? Living this life without her mate - her better half - would have killed her. Especially back then, when she and Nathaniel had only just stopped running away from how they felt about each other. When her quads were only newborns.
Shortly after that incident she had had nightmares. In them, Jackson had actually prevailed and murdered his father. And he had turned his sights on the rest of his family. Monstrous intent in those gleaming eyes. Death imminent. And there was nothing that Jewel could do in those dreams but scream silently until Nate had woken her. In the days since, she had watched her children get presents on their birthday and Christmas and the occasional "just because" presents. Jewel received flowers on the rare chance. No card or anything, but she knew where they came from. Every time she got them she threw them out. If that was his form of an apology she couldn't care to accept it. Nathaniel's life was worth more than that.
So when she saw Andy moving toward them, and Nathaniel and Jackson and Rikara following behind, she scowled and turned her face to the wall, shadowed fingers clenching themselves into fists at her sides. She was angry. And she was hurt. But she refused to blow a gasket. Not in front of everyone.
While her phone was buzzing from getting four consecutive texts, Thea was ready to pounce at Andy's word. She remembered that day very clearly. He nearly had the whole Guild leaping at Selena's command. Had Kenneth upset with her. When they found out she had changed her last name from her father's to Nathaniel's as a personal "fuck you" to him. He really wasn't the reason why she had the burn on her forearm from Selena's magic, but she'd like to blame it on him. Before that, he had used his own magic on her to get her to rat Nathaniel out. It had been an attack on her free will - something that she held dear to her since that day. It was an invasion, what he did. So no, she was not Team Jackson.
Rikara? Well, Thea will admit that she didn't like the woman simply because she looked like her, minus the ... whatever the hell was on her face and body. She's only seen her once. And the rest is history. The way she spoke to Andy, talking him down from whatever precipice he was about to jump from, said to Thea all she needed about her. She was the peacemaker. The softer, more refined version of herself. She was beauty. Grace. A goody-two-shoes. It made Thea sick just looking at her.
Ugh.
She settled back against the counter, looking to Jasper again before going back to her phone. Another smile. I can see patience isnt a virtue of yours. It isnt one of mine either haha. Lemme see what I have tomorrow and Ill get back to you???
Thea knew that she was free tomorrow. But a date? Hell, when she met Luc she hadn't realized he was flirting with her. And she's never really been on a traditional date before. It had her heart racing. Anxious would be an understatement. It was still hard to believe that Luc, a man of angelic proportions, had any interest in her. And she wasn't really sure if she wanted anything, serious or not, right now. Kenneth was still a factor, wherever he was with Selena and Drogo and the rest of the family. But she had told him that it was essentially over between them. And she did mention to Katie that she was just going to swear off romance in general. But here it was. In the form of a muffin-giving, stud-like, blond-haired and blue-eyed man with a smile that melted her heart like butter.
She needed Katie's advice on this.
So before the meeting started again, she sent a quick text to her best friend: Baker boy wants a date and I told him Id let him know what should i do?? Followed by a scared-looking emoji.
***
Hallie resisted the urge to capture Davion's hand on her knee, yet the desire for him to touch her even in the simplest of ways such as this welled within her, threatening to overflow out of her. Even through her jeans she felt his chill. That was something that she was getting used to already, the fact that his body temperature was significantly colder than hers. Even so, she wondered how it would feel if they became more intimate. And she wasn't even talking about sex.
Since her mother gave Davion permission to stay Archard and Maddox watched him and Hallie like hawks. Hallie was sure that Jewel knew she was no virgin. She wasn't naive or innocent. However she wasn't easy either. There was no denying the chemistry she and the Crown Prince had, no. Yet that didn't mean that because they were mates they would fall in love and live happily ever after. Nor was she dumb. She was still unsure of Davion's true intentions. "I do cherish it," she responded, "and them." Even if they were being a tad dramatic with this.
Her aunt's voice had her immediately swiveling her head to the screen in front of her. The familiar silver eyes had her smiling broadly. "Aunt Ve! Ugh, I miss your face." And she did. She missed Aunt Lue too, and would love her input on this situation. Regardless, Ventia was here now. And she could always call Luecrezia later. "All things considered, I'm holding up pretty well. Totally the norm to find out you're part vampire and the next head honcho for them, no biggie." Her mother did say that she got her sarcasm from the Constantine side of the family. She waved her hand nonchalantly and tilted her head toward the man beside her and the reason why she got caught in this mess. "This is Davion, by the way. I'm sure Mom and Dad have told you about him. Davion, this is my Aunt Ventia. Mom's best friend, my godmother, and officially the Alpha of the New Dawn."
She said the last part with pride, chest swelling with it and an emphasis on it being official. Hallie knew that Ventia did all the work of an alpha but never took up the title until now. She wondered why now, but she guessed that it was a good thing she did because of the shit storm that she felt was about to be on them.
Her mouth opened once more to tell her she was happy for Ventia when Davion interrupted her, and she turned to him puzzled. "Yeah," she murmured, the answer drawn out into three syllables. It was clear it was a conversation that didn't get brought up too often. "Technically, he's my half brother. Dad's oldest. I've never met him. Why? And why is he there, Aunt Ve?"
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Post by Ventia on Oct 20, 2022 23:07:02 GMT -5
Jackson was never one to follow the rules or for that matter, care about them either. He did what he wanted to, when he wanted to, without any care in the world. He didn't care for dealing with any of the complicated bullshit either, if people weren't smart enough to protect their property it wasn't his fault. He hadn't actually planned on making a appearance here, he had tried the d'Guillory Estate first and the protective barriers hadn't allowed him entrance so of course his next best bet was his father's house.
He hadn't shown his face because he didn't want to deal with the man but some time after Rikara came into his life...no it was the night they were on the balcony in Rome, the first day he had finally allowed himself to open up, to confess his love for her, and the time he had told her his feelings for the man that sired him. As he had spoken, the days after, the thoughts continued to plague his mind and those all centered around Nathaniel, his father.
He had found himself wanting a actual relationship with the man, wanting to make it better, was it to appease his sudden guilt for the way he had acted that day, threating his half siblings and trying in earnest to take his father's life? Was it because he knew that everything stemmed from the pain he had watching his mother's sad face and not having a father in his life while he was young? Possibly.
When Rikara had asked him why he liked Raziel and not Nathaniel, suddenly Jackson couldn't understand why either. Both men had disappeared from the Nox's family lives, so why had he held such a grudge for Nate and not Raziel? In the beginning he had hated his grandfather as well but in such a short period of time, he had learned to forgive the old man so why couldn't he do the same for Nathaniel?
He stared at his father now, Andrew's Smith's words getting under his skin, the urge to get angry was there, right underneath his skin and right below that was a nagging guilt that tried to overtake the anger. Gold began to flash in his eyes, gold yellow, he used to hate the color, used to hate the way his mother smiled upon seeing it, now seeing the vivid purple coloring his father's gaze Jackson he began to envy it, wanting it for his own so that he could share that trait again with Nathaniel.
He said nothing though, continuing to stare at his father and to glare at the Alpha of the Nightstar Pack for making Rikara bow and apologize. This time he didn't mind the anger that rose to the surface, the darkness of his magic came alive, flooding around him as she continued to drop her head, bowing to a man that wasn't even worth her respect, he gripped his left hand, clenching it, the fierceness in his eyes getting darker, if he so wished it, he could kill the man for making her do such a thing, but then that would just make everything worst.
Gritting his teeth, Jackson released a breath only feeling slightly better due to Rikara and gave them a fake smile, "Promises promises. They usually get broken don't you know?" He winked at Andy, fully intending to get payback for what just happened, his anger ready and willing to make the man eat his words. His anger finally sizzled away as Andrew finally left the doorway and after giving Nathaniel another hard look, Jackson turned around his gaze softening but still feeling bitter for what Rikara just did.
He touched her chin, raising her head for it was still a inch too lowered for his liking, his magic wrapping around her live a lover's embrace and acting as a invisible shield to those around her. "You shouldn't have done that but thank you."
He turned once more to Nathaniel, he honestly didn't feel like being there anymore but he had came for a reason. He flicked his fingers and a blood red envelope appeared out of thin air, he plucked it and showed it to Nathaniel. "I'm here because of this."
"That's from the Clans." Nathaniel's gaze hardened, he had held back from speaking while Andy had been there, unable to find the words to defend his firstborn even if one of the comments had made him see red for a second. He knew his Alpha meant well, that Andy only wanted to protect everyone, but the urge to rebel and tell Andy that he had no right to tell who and who couldn't be allowed into his household had been strong, it had only been Jewel's face that had gave him the means to stay relaxed and keep his mouth shut.
"Yes from the King and Queen. You've seem to find yourself in trouble again, dear father of mine." Jackson held out the envelope to the man in question and waited for Nathaniel to take it. He did, the seal had already been broken so Nathaniel didn't shy away from opening it and taking out the black paper with bright red letters.
"Better to be safe than sorry, for that I can understand where Andy is coming from." Ventia murmured back, touching her friend's hand and giving it a gentle squeeze before smiling at Andy welcoming him into their circle.
"In terms of physical strength, I think you can take him Andy but be careful he is dangerous." Ventia let go of Jewel's hand and turned to Hallie, sighing softly flicking her gaze from the computer to the doorway, "Information about the vampires it seems, Nate's reading a letter right now. Also, I miss your face and having you behind the bar." She chuckled lightly, Hallie had been her best worker and now having to replace her was proving to be difficult. Or maybe she just missed seeing her goddaughter's face whenever she dropped in. Although she hadn't made a entrance after Lue had came for obvious reasons. Another sigh, she really would have to meet with her lovely succubus.
Katie felt out of the loop to say the least, so she stayed on the couch watching everyone but primary her gaze was set on the doorway with the newcomers. There were a few new faces here that she barely knew, what little she did know were from her own investigations and her mother's in her office, but still paper told little of people's real natures. Did she like the way the cocky guy was talking in, not necessarily, but she was used to cocky men and didn't really see anything in his demeanor that showed he wanted to harm the others, still that didn't mean it couldn't happen.
She sighed, looking over at Jareth and Lynn, Jareth showed distrust on his features and he had tighten his grip on Lynn, sitting straighter in the couch as if ready to bolt up and defend her to his last dying breath. When her phone buzzed, Katie gladly used the distraction she desperately needed and almost gasped out loud, instantly turning around to look at Thea from across the room.
Their eyes met and Katie grinned, her eyes brightening before she turned back to quickly type out her reply. "Yessss!!! Go for it!! When does he wanna meet up? Oh goshhh I have to be there so we can pick out a outfit!! Baker Boyyyy gahhh!!!" Followed by many excited faces emojis.
"Come in, and behave." Nathaniel gave Jackson a stern look before turning around and going to Jewel's side, he wasn't worried about Jackson compared to others and if the boy was stupid enough to try things there were plenty people stronger than him that could take his son down-at least to get him to calm down. His gaze met Anderson's for a second and then dropped down to Harley and then Jasper, he gritted his teeth before finally stopping by Jewel's side and showing her the letter, which was a invitation almost identical to their own. He got the same colored envelop that was waiting on their table and opened it up, comparing the two.
-
Lucifer smirked at Thea's message-finally-and finally glanced up from his phone. It was a very long process to get signal in Hell and he didn't care to explain all of it, but it was because of his greatness that Lucifer was even able to enjoy such humane things. The old ones were looking at him expectedly as they were ever and Lucifer stood up, stifling a yawn.
"Do as you will," he stated in a bored voice, "you know what will happen to you if you make any mistakes. Now I tire of hearing such boring talks. Cheerios." He moved away from his chair and ignored the soft murmurs of goodbyes as he made his way out of the room, a long hallway that stretched from both sides, the building opening up with a inner garden dividing the separate wings of the castle.
Lucifer strolled into the garden, the sky was dark filled with lights of blues greens and purples, contrary to the popular belief the demon world was a very beautiful place-especially where he built his castle. Of course there were different zones, many zones with different landscapes and habitats but Lucifer could still see the beauty even in the ugliest parts of his world.
The moon was high, bloody red tonight, the sky filling with lower level demons that flied through the sky as free as a bird. He had never wanted to share this with anyone, feeling possessive over this secret beauty, but at the same time he wondered what Thea would think about this place he called home. Would she like the dark beauty? Would she find it too cold? Too ugly?
He didn't think so, in fact, Lucifer could see her fitting right in, her eyes gleaming with every new experience, and as that thought filled his mind, the urge to have it grew. Why was he so attached to her? It was a mystery even to him, and yet he didn't mind it, for it was the first time in centuries that Lucifer had ever even felt something.
"I'll be eagerly waiting then for your response. What are you up to now?"
-
"Good. I'm glad you do." Davion smiled gently at Hallie, resisting the urge to once again touch her.
Ventia's chuckle eased out from the computer, "Totally the norm indeed, at least in our family. Nice to meet you Davion, and yes I've heard the juicy bits. Word of advice? You better make it up to Jewel or else it wont be pretty. Also Hallie, it seems like Jackson has been invited to the same meeting that you have been invited to. Tell me Davion, what does that mean?"
Davion paused, finally taking his gaze off of Hallie to look into the screen, technology always felt funny to him still though he was used to it. He did after all, keep up with the times. "I don't believe it's a good thing."
"Indeed it's not." Jackson's voice came next as he and Rikara closed the door behind them and walked further into the room, Jackson's arm around her waist and his magic creating a barrier around them their only protection in a room full of people who weren't happy to see them-or more precisely him-here uninvited.
"Hello Jackson, I see my parents have asked for your assistance again."
"Hello Prince, yes they certainly have. Here let me show you the true words of this letter." Jackson stopped a few feet from the table, a tendril of his magic slinking away from him to touch the letter, slowly the words began to shift around, vanishing and reappearing with two short sentences.
Prophet Hallie Ester Constantine.
Kill her.
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Post by Thea on Oct 24, 2022 1:58:09 GMT -5
The black mass that was attached to her like a second limb responded to Jackson's magic quickly. Eagerly. It knew the magic's intentions and instantly grew, stretching up the banished princess's leg from its usual place locked around her ankle. From Jackson's magic, the mass believed that Rikara was in danger. Rikara knew that few others saw the essence as she did, so there was no need to be so afraid for those in this place to take this as a sign to attack. But she couldn't help the desire to leave, afraid that she would offend more than she and Jackson already had.
Her eyes, deep and dark as the old trees in Rome's wildlife, locked onto the golden yellow of Jackson's. She assumed that it had been because of Jackson's admission of love for her because before then it was hard to decipher what he was thinking or feeling. Now, she saw his anger, bitterness, and envy as if it was etched onto his skin like her Marks. The smile she gave him was soft, placating. Though the quirk of her eyebrow conveyed her quiet admonishment. "All I did was use my skill of diplomacy. A skill you need to hone."
She stuck by Jackson's side, her chin now up and level with the floor. It was obvious that Jackson was not very well-liked around here. It had been obvious with the Alpha's words, but even without them, Rikara could just sense the distrust and discomfort. Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw the man on the couch tucking a woman closer to him. People standing up straighter. Wary gazes at them. It was like they were waiting for them to instigate an attack. And with the Alpha mentioning Jackson's near success in killing Nathaniel, coupled with the letter that Jackson had received shortly after their trip to Rome, she understood the hesitance to let them in. Now, she stood a few inches behind him at the table. Hit with a sense of homesickness, an image of her mother's council table was laid on top of this one. It was a plain table, long and rectangular, with a gloss that highlighted the rings of the tree that was used to make it. It looked different than the one she was reminded of, yes. But that wasn't the reason why she was drawn to it. It was the people around the table. This meeting was a council meeting. The table was the gathering place.
She couldn't help but to watch those said people. Jewel - who surprisingly looked nothing like her own mother - was a primary subject. She had seen the seeking squeeze she returned to the silver-eyed woman that was Ventia. The stone-cold look she sent Jackson's way before looking down at the letter that he received from the Vampire King and Queen. The deathlike pallor that bleached her face upon reading the true contents of the letter. Jackson hadn't said much about her. Just that she was Nathaniel's wife and mother to the rest of his siblings and Thea. Before seeing her she imagined her to be a duplicate of her mother, much like Thea was a duplicate of her. Upon first sight, Rikara felt mixed emotions. Upon closer inspection, she thought maybe there were some similarities after all.
Then there was Thea, in some unfathomable fashion her twin. She was tense under her nonchalant disguise, holding a phone in her hand and occasionally looking across the house to the other woman on the couch. Her mirrored self stood beside who she assumed was one of Jackson's siblings, yellow eyes dark with an inner beast that would surely attack if provoked. She wagered by his sheer size alone, broad shoulders, thick arms, and wide chest reminding her of the wrestlers at home, it wouldn't end well for his target. Every once in a while Thea would reach an arm to rub his back in hopes to placate him; it did little to nothing.
"Mom?" a feminine voice said from the computer. "Dad? What does the letter say?"
*
Thea looked up from her phone after she quickly sent Katie, Tomorrow!!! Is that even enough time to prepare?! Its kinda last minute and i KNOW that i have nothingggggggg to wear, to focus more attention on the current event. While she loved Katie's enthusiasm she was still on the fence about this. And that was maybe why the text she sent to her sounded really excuse-y. She was afraid of the implications that were tacked on with a date. A date meant romance. And with that came love. Then heartbreak. In this department, she was severely lacking. And Thea didn't really know how to be a feminine woman - it was a wonder what Luc saw in Thea that day. Men of his looks generally didn't pursue women who gave off the air of being able to suplex a man three times her weight.
Needless to say, Thea didn't answer "baker boy" right away despite the urge to reply. Instead, she put her phone back in her pocket with the compromise of texting him after this meeting was over.
From the look on her mother's face, it was about to start up again.
"It seems ... that Jackson was ordered to kill you by Davion's parents." Jewel's southern twang was getting thicker. A sure sign that she was angry. She scrubbed a hand over her face, the other on a cocked hip.
"Kill?" Thea heard Sybil ask softly, worriedly. It was then that Thea realized that Sybil was the most recent to join the Constantine Clan, having come to them as a tragically-turned shifter from a very sheltered background. A small tremor wracked her body before she huddled closer to Ruby's side. If there was a way Sybil would have crawled under her mate's skin at this point.
"It is no surprise that there would be targets over you, mademoiselle," Archard's cool voice said through the computer. "I am taken aback that the current monarchy would try to ... what is the phrase? Erase you from the picture so early."
"With how little we knew of them, they very well could have tried to mold Hallie to their image of a prophet. It wouldn't have hurt to try," Anderson mused, contemplation on his face. "Since she and their son are fated mates. They don't seem to care to play the long game."
"This isn't a game, though, Grandpa," Jewel snapped. "They want to kill my baby."
"It is to them." Anderson leveled his bright blue eyes at Jewel. "To us, Hallie is much more than what is on her finger. To them, she is an unknown player that stands a chance to end a winning streak. We knew from the very beginning how valuable the Eye of Solomon is to the vampires and how powerful its bearer is. You shouldn't be surprised that they would want her dead."
"I'm not. What I am curious about, though," she turned her head to look to Jackson, hating how her grandfather was making sense, "is why you decided to show us this."
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Post by Ventia on Oct 26, 2022 5:05:40 GMT -5
Curious with the situation happening around the table Katie stood up and walked around the various people towards Thea's and her mother's side while checking what Thea had messaged her next. She let out a breath that sounded more like a psh as she finally stationed herself behind both Thea and Ventia's backs. From here she could see everything better than having her back to the couch and missing all the fun. She lightly bumped her shoulder against Thea's and gave her a look that point blank said she knew what her lovely best friend was doing and she was not going to stay quiet about this matter once everyone cleared out for the night.
Then she turned to look at the letter in her aunt's hands and watched with bitterness as the final words showed with words that looked like it was already dripping with blood. She felt instant disgust turning her gaze to the video chat where Hallie Constantine sat smushed between Killian and she supposed the Davion fellow. She never told anyone but Katie had fierce feelings for the youngest to date Constantine child, it was Hallie who had in all essence in Katie's eyes, replaced her when Katie disappeared from the Pack.
For the best reason why too. She was one of the main reasons why her mother could carry on as well as she had despite everything that was going on. Katie really appreciated that about Hallie, she wanted to repay the favor, to protect the light that had protected her mother for the seven years she had been gone. She didn't like the worried look in Hallie's eyes nor what was being said at that moment. She was a bit happy to see that all around her shared her feelings and that was such a powerful thing, it really sank the feeling of home for her as well.
Ruby rubbed the small of Sybil's back, smoothing her even as her anger began spiking at the words against her niece and the man who stood across from her holding a replica of Thea in his arms. The girl had done a lot to cease her inner fight instinct which was funny since Jackson himself looked like a tad younger version of Nate. One would think seeing her brother's face would make her want to play nice but no she had sensed the danger the second before his knock had sounded on the door. It didn't help that Ruby herself was a thrill seeker on the best of days and making arrogant boys eat their words was always a favored pastime of hers.
Still with Sybil in her arms, Ruby hadn't felt any real intense need to be on guard, even now at the letters contents of it, all her anger was solely on the ones who sent the order and not the man who received it. Now was he going to go through with it? His next words would decide whether or not Ruby would rise to the occasion to teach her sweet nephew a thing or two about manners.
Jackson tried not to smile sweetly when Jewel finally turned her angry eyes at him, he really did he swore, but alas his lips stretched out in her own accord. "You're really still angry with me aren't you Jewel."
"Jackson." Nathaniel voice was a cold warning.
"Like Rikara said," Jackson began in a gentle tone that he hoped didn't sound condescending and instead sincere as it was truly was meant to be. "I am here to aid my family. As bad as you all think of me, and I can't complain since I have been a bit of a ass at our first meeting, I have truly come to like you all in these recent years. I may not have acted as such but alas it is true." He paused to look into Jewel's eyes not letting anything out of his own gaze.
"I will never allow one of my own to be killed Jewel. I have watched your children grow up and I do care enough to not allow any harm befall them should I be aware of the situation. I wanted to warn you all, I'm sure you knew it was a trap but here's the proof. Viktor and Alice do not want the Eye of Solomon to change the power structure that they've fought hard to hold for these last few centuries. For them it is better to kill any present and future Bearers then have to relinquish control of their power over the Clans."
"I am curious to see what their plan is doing it at such a public event, but then again they've twisted so many tales with their snake lips that I'm sure they'll be able to get away with it as they always do. With the Prophet dead, the Eye of Solomon will be in their grasps and then they can decide who the next Prophet will be, no doubt someone they can control. They can wait centuries if they so wished to before finding the perfect puppet. Sound plausible Davion?"
"Yes. Time means nothing for a race like ours." Davion glanced at Hallie again wondering if there will come a day when he would have to make a decision if she began to age. Her bloodline was so unique they probably wouldn't even have to worry about such a thing and yet Davion would feel better if he could be sure. Even if she hated him for a few hundred or thousands of years after such a change, Davion was sure he could bare the weight of her ire if Hallie was at least still alive. Davion had grown tired of watching the ones he cherished die for something as little as time.
Yes, he could do anything for her.
But first he would deal with his parents.
It was time.
"If they are caught trying to kill the Prophet it is within my every right to kill the betrayers. It seems like my schedule for their deaths have been pushed up. We will kill Viktor and Alice Raith on that appointed day." Davion said in a relaxed and clear tone, keeping his eyes on Hallie's face as he spoke the words.
"Then we will let Hallie take her place as Prophet."
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Post by Thea on Oct 26, 2022 21:34:44 GMT -5
"Meeting" was putting it lightly, Jewel's inner dialogue grumbled. When she thought of meetings they generally didn't start out with an attempt on someone's life and end with the almost-murderer tied up on the front porch. But she didn't feel like debating technicalities when there were more important things to address. With Nathaniel's warning tone in defense of Jewel in her mind, her brow ceased its furrowing. She straightened her shoulders. The mother still didn't trust Jackson as far as she could throw him, but she did decide to take him at his word this once.
Those gifts her quads have been given by Jackson weren't cheap or thoughtless. As much as Jewel hated it Jackson really did watch over the kids. Hallie got essential tools for a bartender one year, everything but the muddler in her favorite color. Dimitri was given a nice set of blades, too. Harley even got a camera to pursue her photography hobby like Eva. Was he actively part of their lives? No, but she did see a little bit of effort from him. And Nathaniel was pleased too. He wasn't taking his hatred for his father out on the rest of his siblings.
The conversation has come up before between her and Nathaniel about letting Jackson do this. A lot of back and forth, with her not wanting anything to do with Jackson simply because of that night. Eventually, she acquiesced, threatening only once that if her children got anything that was charmed or otherwise to hurt them she wouldn't hesitate to defend them. And if they wanted to have a relationship with Jackson she wouldn't step in the way. As far as she knew all of them felt the same way about him - he might as well have lived on the other side of the planet. Hell, they might not even have had a face to his name until today.
Her eyes never once left Jackson's, seeing everything that he was conveying to her, not as suspicious as she had been when he and Rikara first walked in. She glanced at the woman that looked so much like her second oldest after Jackson addressed Davion - another being she didn't trust at all - to find that Rikara was looking at her with the same sincerity he was. There was something about her that coaxed Jewel into laying her proverbial fur down flat. She wasn't sure if it was because she was Thea's twin, because wouldn't someone be weirded out if they were in her shoes? And yet her jaw became unclenched. And the animal that shared a part of her soul seemed to be at ease as well.
She was grateful to have an excuse to look away from her gaze, putting her hands on her hips as she looked toward the computer to look at her daughter. This wasn't easy. All she wanted to do was scoop Hallie up and hide her away from the fate that seemed to be hers. Her headstrong, courageous, independent pup. Gone were the days she worried about her being employed by a succubus and whether her smart mouth was going to get her in trouble. Now there was a bounty on her head simply because a piece of jewelry deemed her its next wearer. And because of its decision, her life would not go how she had planned it.
***
There it was again. The inexplicable gravitational pull effect Davion's eyes had every time he looked at her. Were it not for their audience, she would have gotten lost in that golden stare. A part of her was glad for it, too, because her ears did catch - and her brain did process - what the Crown Prince was saying.
He spoke so casually about killing the king and queen - his own parents - that she wondered how many times he's thought about doing it. Yes, they had sent her brother to kill her. When Davion spoke of them before, she did get let in on that they weren't the best people. Archard spoke to her briefly that their rise to power was on the deaths of the other heads of the Clans and most of Silvan's council. Had I not had your uncle, Simon, Archard had murmured softly with a faraway look on his face, I very well could have been the victim to their lust for power as well.
However, she couldn't help but worry that there was another reason why Davion wanted his parents out of the picture. A big, shiny reason that would perch nicely on his brow.
"Do you have a plan, then, Your Highness?" her butler asked, fingers folded neatly on the table in front of him.
"If he does -" interrupted Jasper " - it can wait. Not everyone here is going to be running off to dethrone a couple of power-hungry fucks and I'm tired of hearing about it. Jade disappeared into the floor of the Eiffel Tower. I spent all night that night scouring Paris for her and since then Thea has had the Guild searching all over the globe for her. She's human, so we thought that she shouldn't be so hard to find. But it's like she's not even on Earth. Mom spoke with her parents soon after that night - that very fucking same night Princey here decided to raid the estate for the same ring Jackson is supposed to kill Hallie for, might I add - to tell them their daughter is missing and they couldn't give a fuck less."
In the stunned silence that Jasper created, because it was very unlike the otherwise gentle giant to blow up like this, he uncrossed his arms and pulled something from his back pocket. Ludin watched, one hand scratching his bearded jaw, as Jasper slammed an ancient-looking scroll down on the table. "I went to their house personally while Thea was busy with Guild matters. Only her sister was willing to say something, but she was in the dark as much as we are. She did give me this. Apparently its been handed down from generation to generation. A deal that was made ages ago between Jade's ancestors and a - whatever-the-fuck."
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Post by Ventia on Oct 29, 2022 22:54:27 GMT -5
Jackson's eyes widened a fraction at what Jasper had to say, a girl disappearing into a floor? That definitely wasn't normal, yet it had magic and supernatural written all over it. He was happy Jewel at least didn't outright say she didn't believe him and throw him out, that was a good sign he supposed. He glanced down at Rikara, she was watching the young Constantine boy with compassion in her gaze. Matter of fact, they all were, Jackson thought as he gave the room a once over.
He glanced to the scroll, he loved old trinkets and like a kid at a candy store he could feel his interest spiking at this new information. "May I?" He asked the room, but didn't wait for a answer as he began walking around to the other side of the table, taking Rikara along with him. Unfortunately he had to pass by Andrew and he was sure his dislike for the man was as obvious on his face as it was for the man in question.
Still he couldn't help a low scoff as he passed effectively ignoring Rikara's warning jab to his ribs as he finally was next to Jasper. "A deal? How curious, I wonder just what it was that took your lovely mate. The world is a big and nasty place." He snatched the scroll from the table, unwinding the blue ribbon that kept it in place, he couldn't feel any magic on it so he wasn't worried about any spells activating once it was opened.
He spread it open and laid it back across the table, his eyes lighting up as his fingers smoothed the old parchment out. In the middle of the scroll was a drawing of a being clad in black and blue, in samurai armor with four arms and four knifes levitating around his body and his face hidden by the horned hat. The legend written in Japanese on both ends of the picture along with another symbol on the bottom left of the Shinigami's mark.
Jackson blew out a breath, reading the words quickly before turning to look at Jasper. "Well you won't find her here, that's for sure. She isn't on earth anymore. I supposed she had this mark on her?" He asked his younger half brother and judging from the look in his gaze, and the fact the girl had already been taken, it was true.
"She was taken to him," he pointed at the warrior in the picture, "that's a Reaper, I've heard of him-Hagar." Jackson rolled his gaze, "Ugly name but catchy. Used to terrorize the earth back in his day, way back in the old ages, my grandfather swears he was the cause for lots of plagues and wars. Of course, his dear old dad, Mr. Death himself, the main Grim Reaper of course, hated Hagar and tried to kill him many times before but even he couldn't accomplish that feat."
"Enter Jade's ancestors, seems they've tricked him into a dimension of their own making, doesn't say how though but I can pretty much guess. All men in any nature can always be outsmarted by a female. You should remember that, anyway to appease his anger, they've made a deal that they would give him a sacrifice every thousand of years to show some goodwill. That's about it, we can skip all the he was a scourge to the world and that it was considered a gift to be selected as a sacrifice. There's also a warning that all future sacrificial maidens must be kept pure and innocent-basically a virgin."
"How stupid people were back then." Jackson rolled his eyes, had his family be in charge of imprisoning such a demon he was sure they wouldn't have given the beast a sacrifice every so and so years. Instead they were the ones that were cursed, he glanced back at Rikara not wanting to see the day that she would push him away as part of the curse. He wrapped his arm back around her waist, pulling her in nice and snug, and turned back to Jasper.
"I might be able to reach her, well you might be able to reach her, I won't be able to pinpoint the location of that dimension that's a bit above my paygrade even for me but with a little bit of incubus luck," He grinned because that part of himself was usually overlooked even for himself, "you might be able to meet in your dreams. Granted both of you would have to be asleep for that, so who knows when you might actually make contact."
He glanced over at Andrew Smith and grinned, "I'd have to stay awhile until we can chart off her schedule. Alas," he turned back to Jasper, "cant do that if your Alpha plans to throw me out the second this meeting is over. Care to try and convince everyone lil bro? They look like they'd listen to you more than me." He laughed lightly, all joking aside he did want to help the boy out. No one should be separated from the one they loved, that was something Jackson wouldn't wish on his worst enemy, he thought as he finally settled his gaze on Rikara and smiled at her, see I can be a good boy, he wanted to tell her and hoped she could see it even if no one else could.
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Post by Thea on Oct 31, 2022 1:25:34 GMT -5
Jasper never realized how much he hated compassionate gazes until now. That meant they understood how he was feeling right now. But they didn't. All around him were mated pairs, holding tightly to one another while he stood alone. And not by choice, he added to himself as he thought of Dimitri's conscious decision to not have a mate. No, as Jackson went on to explain the scroll that Hana secreted away for him, Jasper didn't think anyone knew what he was going through. Knowing now that Jade was taken from him into this ... other dimension created to be a prison for something that not even Death could destroy, there was a feeling of hopelessness that threatened to overcome him.
There wasn't a single moment since he lost her that he did not think of her last words to him. How she loved him. How she thanked him for the time that they had together as if she had expected this all along. Even in his dreams the last two words she spoke to him replayed in her voice over and over again as he futilely attempted to pull her from whatever force was taking her. And as he struggled to save the love of his life, he heard sinister laughter. The same laughter he heard that day. He hadn't paid attention to it then, but his beast did. And now he guessed they had a face and name to the voice.
This. This was what Jade was trying to tell him that day. About her birthmark.
Gods, why didn't she say anything before then? They would have figured out a way around this. Broken the deal to where they wouldn't have to deal with this ... Hagar. He could have saved her and made sure that their descendants wouldn't have to deal with this anymore. Why did it have to be her? Jade was the best person he's ever met, has ever had the gift of knowing, and whatever bigger force that paired them together had - well, he thought - smiled down on him with favor. She was the other half of him and his beast. He had already known that but the longer she was away from him - the more erratic he was becoming - the more apparent it was.
He was generally a man of few words, and there were instances in Jackson's explanation where his face spoke for his mouth. The pale recognition of the mark on the scroll. The eye twitch of disgust at the mention of how honorable it was to be a "sacrifice". Yet his pale face went ghostly white when Jackson mentioned the warning of being a virgin. "She's not one." His voice was soft, just above a whisper. But with the heightened hearing almost everyone had it wasn't hard to pick up.
He felt his heart galloping in his chest, and there was a roaring in his ears. What had he done? Fear gripped him at his throat, cutting off his air supply. He was drowning in it, the eagle that shared his body shrieking in his mind. Why was it so important that Jade had to be a virgin? Is she suffering for it? Was she even alive?
No. She had to be, he decided. Regardless if he didn't mark her as his mate, he was sure that he would have felt her death. Maybe that was his desperation to have her by his side again. Or the pain that threatened to swallow him if he was the reason for her suffering. Regardless he needed to believe that she wasn't dead.
Did you use a condom? his mother's voice infiltrated his worried train of thought, and he swung his head to look at her. It was obvious to those around them that they were having a private discussion.
Why does it matter? Jasper asked, irritation mounting. He was not wanting a sex ed course, nor did he feel like getting scolded.
Because there's a possibility that she's pregnant. His mother raised a brow at him after a few minutes of stunned silence. It takes only one time, Jasper.
No. No. Not right now. He can't think of that. Because that would mean -
Jackson's voice pulled him out of his spiral, tearing his eyes away from his mother's expectant stare. It was hard to bounce back from that, but he managed, using his brother's words as a raft to pull himself out of his dark thoughts. He honestly should be hesitant to believe anything Jackson was saying. After all, he did try to kill their dad and possibly would have done something to him and his siblings if given the chance. But ... he wanted to trust Jackson. And he would do anything - anything to see Jade again.
That was the message that he conveyed to Andy in one simple, pleading look. It wasn't long until the gorilla-shifter caved, rubbing his face roughly before looking at Jackson. "Under a couple of conditions. You and Rikara will stay in the pack house for the duration of your attempts to reach Jade. I don't think Jewel would be comfortable with you staying here and I do not want you traipsing back and forth over the borders. Second, I want a status report every time you and Jasper try this. If I see there is no luck in it then I want you out. We will find another way to save Jade." Andy turned to Jasper, tilting his chin down and raising his brows to show how serious he was being. If he was certain that he could reunite the two he would vow to Jasper that Jade will be returned to him. "Am I clear?"
"Crystal."
"All right, that's settled. Once we get in contact with Jade we'll take the next steps in her rescue. Those that are in France or are planning on flying out soon I have no doubt that what needs to be done will be done there. Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?"
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Post by Ventia on Oct 31, 2022 15:14:21 GMT -5
Jackson chuckled lightly, it always felt good to win in the end and even though Andrew had given his own requirements of Jackson staying, Jackson still took it as a win. He ran a hand through his hair, eyes dropping down to the scroll and then to the pair of bloody letters, it seemed like he would be busy for the time being. He glanced back to Rikara's face, he knew she wouldn't mind that he was helping his family out no she would want him to, it had been because of her that he had worked the nerve to come back here, even if he knew it wouldn't go so smoothly.
"Flying is so old school." Jackson flicked his wrist, opening a portal to France, the long black gate of their estate blinked back at them. The portal could only reach the street, not enter into the premises but it was much faster than taking a plane.
"I can provide faster transport if I'm around. Up to you." He let the portal dissolve and moved behind Rikara, wrapping his arms around her from behind and perching his chin on top of her head as he looked lazily at his father. There was many things he wanted to tell the man but the anger he had held on for decades had suddenly vanished once Rikara came back into his life.
"Are you really prepared to kill your parents Davion?" Nathaniel asked the man, he didn't like how he was always looking at Hallie, he wanted to believe it was a act so that he could gain more power in his vampire world but Nathaniel knew those hidden emotions in those eyes, that longing, he had seen it in his own gaze when it came to Jewel.
Davion sighed, giving Hallie a small smile for the shocked sadness that had popped into her eyes for a moment before turning to the computer. "If that's the only way. Knowing them, Hallie wont be safe until their reign is over. I knew this but I didn't think they'd act so soon. I thought we'd have more time." He said softly, thinking back on every cruelty his family had endured because of his parents. There had been a lot. In reality, they shouldn't have ruled for so long but after massacring every strong Clan and any that could pose a threat to the Crown, the Clans were too scared of their King and Queen to disobey them and the ones that craved violence devoted themselves to their rulers.
"You have a plan?"
"Roughly, of course Hallie's safety will be our main priority."
"Alright." Nathaniel blew out a breath, looking around the room, "That's the gist of it, Andy already gave permission to have Ruby Sybil Brook and Anderson to say on Pack Territory, New Dawn members as always is welcome to come and visit. I'll be away for the majority of the time, so please lend me your help in protecting my family." He touched Jewel's back and made sure to look at Ventia and every other New Dawn member in the room.
His tone lightened a fraction, "We've prepared food and drinks if you're hungry so please help yourselves. If anyone has any additional information that can be helpful please come up to me before leaving. Thank you for coming, I appreciate it and will return the favor in the future." He smiled at the room and then turned to his oldest son.
"Jackson can I have a word?"
Jackson hummed, looking down at Rikara and then giving Nate a expectant look.
"She won't be harmed here." Nathaniel doubted anyone would want to harm her, his son on the other hand was a different story.
Jackson eased his arms away from her, he knew he was being clingy since the day he confessed but Rikara hadn't told him to stop so he was just soaking it all up. He moved to her side, brushing his hand through her hair, "Will you be alright alone?" he asked her gently, uncaring of the room around them. For him, Rikara would always matter first and foremost, if she didn't feel comfortable being alone he wouldn't leave her as simple as that.
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Post by Thea on Nov 2, 2022 0:50:48 GMT -5
Rikara slowly but surely was getting used to Jackson’s intimacy. At first, it had been a shock to her system, not having had anyone touch her like Jackson has recently. Her mother hugged her and kissed her, yes, but that was different. And Tolor’s touches were nothing short of friendly, even familial. With Jackson, however, everything was new. She struggled to respond appropriately, but if she offended him he never let it on. Even now, she had trouble finding a spot for her arms, a blush arising in her cheeks as she felt eyes on her and him.
Her arms finally made a decision, settling on his that wrapped around her middle, fingers wrapping around his wrists. And there they stayed, from the time Nathaniel finished the meeting until he came up to Jackson and her. She watched Nathaniel curiously, hope for Jackson and him to reconcile blooming in her chest. Not even being dismissed from the conversation could diminish it, though when Jackson detached himself from her she frowned.
“I am fine,” Rikara assured, her body gravitating toward him before she consciously stepped away. As much as she wanted for Jackson to have a relationship with his father, she knew that there was no one here she knew. Being royalty, she understood that networking was important. With it, miracles happened. But she knew that she couldn’t rely on Jackson to get to know everyone. It wasn’t hard to see they looked at them with suspicion painting their view. With Thea and Jewel it had been with hatred, even. And she couldn’t fault them for that - after all, he did try to murder his father.
“You speak with your father and I will make friends.” She took the hand that was previously brushing through her hair and squeezed it, rising on her toes to brush a kiss along his jaw. Then she walked toward Thea and the girl that was beside her, pausing only once to let Jasper by with the now-rolled scroll. She couldn’t help but watch him briefly, worry nagging at her as he bounded up the steps to another part of the house. If this were her home, and he a member of the castle, she would have tried to console him.
But she was not home. And she didn’t think that her efforts to make him feel better would have been appreciated.
***
Once Nathaniel dismissed everyone there was a line that started forming around the food and drink. There was a hesitance to start, but Penny hopped up from X’s lap and pulled her mate up with her from the chair they had been sitting in. Together they started the line, with Sybil following after Ruby and then Brook after giving her dogs the command to, “Stay.”
Jewel watched the line get bigger for a few moments, vowing to herself that she will eat after everyone else does, then turned to Ventia as Andy said, “About that idea you had, Ven. What was it?”
“Jewel, Gem.”
The twin women turned toward their grandfather, Harley right behind him, as he looked at them with a stoic look on his face. “May I speak with you two?”
Jewel never got a chance to speak with her grandfather after their time in Drethinov, but she didn’t forget the feeling of betrayal and distrust she had when Alister outed him as a high-ranking demon. Of course, she had been a pup when he disappeared from her life, and she supposed there really hadn’t been a good time to tell your family such a vital piece of information. Yet there was something about being told by another demon about her own heritage that really rubbed her the wrong way.
When she told Gem, she hadn’t been surprised. Though Jewel was glad she wasn’t the only one that wasn’t let in on such a secret, and Thorn had blown up so viciously that Jewel joked she felt his anger on the other side of the world. It was a wonder how Anderson still had his ears with how Thorn chewed him out. Regardless, Anderson still stood, not remorseful in the least that he didn’t tell them about him decidedly not being a werewolf.
She wondered what else he was holding back.
“Is this a private discussion?” Gem asked, hands on her hips.
“I would prefer it to be, yes,” Anderson answered, “though I have no doubt that Aiden will be coming along and Nathaniel and your children will hear this as it pertains to them as well. How you tell them what I want to say is none of my concern, though I hope that you do not hate me afterwards.”
Jewel already didn’t like where this was going, but turned to Harley. “While we’re dealing with this, how about you go see who your sister is texting. With all that smiling I think it’s a boy.”
**
Once Nathaniel stopped talking Thea had whipped out her phone to send a text back to Luc: A family meeting. Nothing too crazy. What about you? You working today? Suddenly she was craving a muffin. Maybe she can find an excuse to go to the bakery today.
When she put her phone back in her pocket she groaned lowly, rubbing both her hands over her face. How was she acting like a little school girl gushing about her crush giving her a little bit of attention? “Should I tell him yes on the date now? Or wait until later? I don’t know the first thing about this Kate. I’m hopeless.”
“Hello, Thea.”
Thea peeked out through a slit in her fingers to see the origin of the voice. She knew who it was - she was the only person to have a heavy-accented, proper-speaking voice. Her name came from Rikara sounding like “They-ah”. If she were younger she would have purposely mispronounced Rikara’s name. But Rikara gave her the vibe that she would cry because someone was being mean. Wasn’t she like a princess or something? “Hey.” Then because she grew up, she spoke to Katie, “Kate, this is Rikara -“ the alien with her face, she wanted to add - “Rikara, this is Kate.”
***
In France, Archard leaned forward and muted their side of the call before standing up swiftly. It seemed that Davion didn’t get the hint, though, that with Archard off the bench there was room to move. Hallie should care, if a little bit. But she didn’t. “Shall I get drinks?”
“A water?” Hallie asked quietly.
“Oui. Anyone else?”
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Post by Ventia on Nov 2, 2022 22:31:42 GMT -5
Jackson hid a smile when he noticed Rikara taking a step into his direction after they had separated, as if she craved his nearness as much as he craved hers. His throat worked over a sudden lump of pure lust though when she squeezed his hand and bent up pressing a kiss to his jaw. His jaw clenched, he took a step after her but she had already let him go and had turned around, boldly and confidently moving towards the younger group of girls.
"Call my name if you need me." He raised his voice over the crowd to be heard, she turned her head only giving him a smile that said she would though her eyes told him she didn't think that would be needed. He watched her for another second, walking away from him, his heart began to kick up in fear, fear she'd leave him, fear she'd slip from his fingers again. Before he had been too young to stop it, he didn't have enough power back then, now he worried the bastard curse would be his undoing. No matter how strong he was, no matter the tricks he had under his sleeve, his family hadn't been able to overcome that curse...he gritted his teeth and turned to his father.
"Let's head to my office." Nathaniel said lightly and turned around, moving through the bodies to one of the far off rooms that still remained on the first floor of his home. He held the door open, half expecting not to see Jackson following him, but his son was still behind him and entered the room moving further in and taking in the new room.
Nathaniel closed the door, his office was larger than others set with a large desk his computer and monitor perched on top of it, with extra drawers that had many of his Casino's paperwork. A small loveseat next to the window, a bookshelf, and a few other oddities that Jewel had decorated to make sure Nathaniel felt comfort whenever he was working. Pictures perched on the walls of their family along with the one glass frame he kept on his desk. Nate went to his computer chair and sat down, his shoulder's felt tensed so he reached back and gave it a squeeze while Jackson picked a spot to relax.
He chose the wall next to the window, moving the shades to look out towards the sky before finally meeting his father's gaze. "So what is it? Let me guess, you want to know why the sudden change?"
"That's a part of it I guess," Nathaniel watched Jackson with heavy eyes, there was once a time where he hadn't cared about anyone, barely even the Pack he chose to be with, for Nathaniel it had only been a means to a end. Every day felt the same. He would exchange masks to suit the occasion. To get through the day and to get what he wanted. That went on and on until he died.
He didn't think he would care so much about dying until it happened. When he rose back from the grave, given a second chance, Nathaniel naturally went back to his old ways. That was all he knew. However something in him had changed. He wanted more. Wanted a life partner to share his life with. Wanted a family. When he met Selena, he thought she was the answer to all his prayers. So he tried, even if she was far too young and immature at times, he still tried. Only to be burned in the end.
He had been slipping back into the darkness ever since then. But then he met Harley, his child, and simultaneously Jewel had came into his life as well. He found himself wanting more again. Wanting to be a better father. A better man. He wanted Jewel, try as he did to deny it after that messy mate situation, he couldn't deny the pull she had on him. The world got better whenever she was in it. She changed everything. She and his children.
Now he was a husband and father. He had no regrets. He was at peace with his life. All but in one area. And that was Jackson. If any of his children resembled him the most, and Nathaniel wasn't talking about his looks, it was Jackson. Nathaniel could still remember that day, when Jackson shouted at him blaming him for his horrible life, when his eyes screamed with pain twisted with anger as he tried to kill him. Nathaniel had felt helpless, guilty, he had finally thought he had came to a spot in his life where he had become good, where he was doing good, only to be slapped with the truth that he was far from it, at least in Jackson's case.
"I haven't been a father to you Jackson and I know you'll never forgive me because of that, I wish I knew back then but I probably wouldn't have been such a good father at that time either. I took a long time to grow up, to think of others instead of myself, would I have stayed with your mother had I known?" Nathaniel watched Jackson's eyes hardened at the mention of his mother, "I probably wouldn't. She was sweet and kind but I wasn't in the right state of mind to care. I had a lot of issues back then and-"
"I don't want to hear your excuses." Jackson spat angrily, fisting his hands by his sides, looking down on the man feeling his old hatred and feelings hovering just under the surface.
"Of course, I know that, I know I sound like a old man trying to right his wrongs, I didn't mean to say that let me start again." Nathaniel blew out a breath and stood up, walking to where Jackson stood and pausing in front of him.
"Give me a chance Jackson. I don't doubt your sudden change because I know you have good in you. You've shown it countless times during these last years, the presents, the flowers for Jewel, now helping both your sister and brother out without asking for anything in return? If you really wanted to hurt me, you would have turned your hatred on my family, if you were really cruel you would have gone through with your empty threat of harming the quads and Jewel, but you didn't and you wont. You're my son, you might be complicated as hell and say things you don't mean, do thing's that you don't really want to do, you might put on a air of arrogance, but that's just a act."
"You're a good boy, you may not be proud to have me as a father but I am very proud to have you as my son. I would do anything for you, I would do anything for my family, whether they like it or not. I know you only came for Hallie originally, and you probably don't want to be hearing this, but while you're here please give me a chance to be your father?" Nathaniel gave his firstborn a smile, his eyes warm as he bared his heart to his rebel son, knowing full well that he probably would be rejected but unable to stop himself from trying either way.
"What's this? Sentimental hour?" Jackson scoffed, folding his arms over his chest unable to keep his eyes on his father's for long. Even though this was what he wanted, why he came here in the first place, using Hallie's assassination's attempt as a excuse a coverup for his real wish, now that it was happening, Jackson felt himself hesitating.
His eyes snagged on a family photo, their smiles in all sizes, their eyes bright and warm. He barely had family pictures like that, even though his mother and grandmother smiled their eyes looked dull and their smiles looked faked, and Jackson himself had always a emotionless face. He turned back to Nathaniel and reached forward, gripping his shirt in his hand and glaring into his eyes.
"I've hated you for years. For my whole life." He got out over the lump in his throat.
"I know." Nathaniel smiled.
"I grew up listening to my mother's stories of you, speaking about you like you were some hero, yet where were you? I used to think you'd come for me, that you'd come for us. I used to wait for you. Any second now, I would tell myself, any second and you'd walk through that door and I would have a dad." Jackson chuckled, shaking his head, he let go of Nate's shirt bringing his arm back to his chest.
"When Mom didn't understand me, I didn't have anyone else to turn to. When I got beat up by the older kids, I didn't have anyone to teach me how to defend myself. When I saw sons and fathers playing in the parks I didn't have that." Jackson gritted his teeth, hating the sympathetic look that was crossing Nathaniel's gaze. He walked away, giving the man his back, glaring down at the door.
"After that, I got close with my grandfather. He was another bastard I used to hate for leaving my grandmother. I hated him too but I longed for a father figure so much that I got over that with him, and he taught me everything I needed to survive. I didn't need you anymore. At least that's what I kept telling myself. For years upon years. I let my hate fester. I kept blaming you. When I saw how happy you were, I wanted to make you feel just a fraction of the misery I've been feeling. I even wanted your children to feel what it was like not to have a father. I wanted Jewel to have that empty sad look that my mother always has, only then did I think we would be even."
Jackson turned back, "But you, you didn't even try to stop me. You let me hit you again and again, you let me get a inch close to killing you, if it wasn't for my mother's spell on me to not kill you, I would have. Do you understand that? This son you're trying to reconnect with was fully one hundred percent trying to kill you in earnest. To make your family suffer. Why are you acting like that didn't happen? Why don't you hate me back? You're so stupid, everyone here hates me and you...you're still looking at me like..." His vision blurred, were those tears? No. Jackson turned away again, quickly wiping them before they could fall.
"You're my son Jackson..." Nathaniel said very softly after a long moment, had this been any of his other three boys he would have already reached for them to comfort them but Nathaniel didn't have such a bond like that with Jackson. Not yet.
"How can I hate you? I hate myself for not being there for you. For causing you and your mother so much pain and misery. If I could turn back time knowing everything I do now, I would make sure to have been in your life. I wouldn't have left you alone. I'm sorry Jackson, I really am." Hesitantly he reached out touching Jackson's shoulder lightly, when the boy didn't shrug him away Nathaniel let his hand rest firmer.
"Take all the time you need, I'm not going anywhere. You're welcome here anytime. I'll talk with Jewel and Andy, so you don't have to worry about a thing. As long as you don't cause too much trouble for them, they'll soon learn that you don't mean any harm. Okay?"
Jackson swallowed, closing his eyes, he needed Rikara needed to stop before he fell apart, he pinched the bridge of his nose before nodding, tension easing away from his body. He couldn't respond but hearing the words, getting a bit off his chest had helped. He blew out a breath and glanced back, looking at Nate.
"You don't have to try too hard because I'll be trying as well. It's probably not even your fault, if I'm honest. Our family is cursed to lose the one they love." He smiled a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"I didn't understand until Rikara came back into my life. I'm going to lose her. She'll leave me just like you left my mother. She'll find a love greater than my love for her. She'll have a family without me. And I would always only want her." Jackson shrugged, his chest felt heavy, he was revealing too much too soon, it was starting to hurt.
"I see how much you care for her. She cares for you just as much, don't sell yourself short Jackson."
"Curses are the hardest to break, you know that? Especially one that's generational. Anyway, its because of her that I'm ready to put the past behind me. I want to cherish what little time I have with her. I want her to see only the good in me. She want's me to rekindle with you, maybe because she knows she won't be in my life for long. She's taken for, has a whole literal world waiting for her, she probably want's to see me in a good place before she finally leaves me." Jackson breathed in deep, moving his hand to rest it upon Nate's for a second before gently taking his hand off his shoulder.
"She knows me better than I know myself. I'm sorry for blaming you. I don't want to keep talking about this, don't worry I think we're on the same page. I'll try not to cause trouble but I won't make any promises. Let's cut it here, okay dad?"
Nathaniel smiled, for the first time Jackson called him dad and it didn't sound sarcastic or like a insult. His heart clenched. Hope flared. "Okay son. Just...true love can accomplish anything. Curses or not. If you really love her and she really loves you, then don't give up so easily. Chase her to the end of the earth if you have to. There's always a way. Love truly conquers all."
Jackson laughed and clapped his dad on the shoulder, "Not even a minute after we agree to get on better terms and you're already giving me a dad prep talk?" He chuckled again, clapping Nate's shoulder again.
"Thanks for the advice but I already plan to do all that. I'll rip the curse to shreds and if I don't, I'll be as annoying as a rock in her shoe if I need to. I won't be like my mother or grandmother, I won't just wait and hope, I'll fight to the end. So thanks for that. I'm a bit parched with all this sweet talking, let's rejoin the rest for real this time yea?"
"Alright, let's go."
"Also tell me, what should I do to make Jewel a bit happier with me?"
"Oh.." Nathaniel chuckled, leading his son out of the room, "that's something even I don't think I can help you with."
"Tch. Aren't you useless." But Jackson was laughing as he said it, and finally his chest and spirit felt lighter than it had before.
-
Harley glanced up at Ludin then back at Jewel and Gem before back up to Ludin. Fear suddenly kicked into gear, what was Ludin going to say to them? Surely he wasn't going to choose this moment to spill the beans on their relationship? No, she reassured herself her fear quieting down, if he was then he would want her dad there as well, and he wouldn't let Jewel shoo her away.
"Okay," Harley said with a smile at her mother and aunt and walked out from Ludin's shadow only looking back at him once she successfully passed her mother. She looked into his eyes, knowing no matter what the situation was, that she would never be able to hate him. She hoped that Gem and Jewel wouldn't as well. Giving him a smaller more private smile, Harley turned around and sneaked behind Thea, who was too busy with her nose in her phone and Kate to notice her and then Rikara grabbed their attention.
"Hey!" Katie waved her hand towards Rikara and then turned back to Thea.
"You can make him wait for a bit but definitely agree to it before the night ends."
"Ooh a date? Look's like Mom was right about it being a boy. When did this happen, also hi Rikara my name's Harley, glad to have you here." Harley finally spoke up, giving her elder sister the wiggly eyes and a charming smile to Rikara.
She stepped closer to Rikara, lowering her voice, "I see you have your hands full with a troublemaker as well. Maybe you can give our dear sweet sister some dating tips."
"What's wrong with my dating tips?" Katie frowned, folding her arms under her chest.
Harley chuckled, "But you don't have a boyfriend do you Kate?"
Katie rolled her eyes, "Just because I don't have one doesn't mean I don't know all the do's and don'ts. Don't I give great advice Thea? Right? I'm awesome like that, right?" She squinted her eyes at her best friend and then shook her head.
"You know what? Cancel that last idea, tell him not tomorrow but the next day and then tomorrow we can all go out and go shopping. The first one to find the best outfit for Thea wins." Katie showed her toothy grin, her eyes beginning to burn ablaze with determination.
"Careful girls." Ventia told them as she walked past with Andy, moving to a less crowded place to talk.
Once they were semi alone, Ventia laid out her plans. "I want to combine our Packs." She started, gauging his reaction before continuing.
"I know we're Sister Packs and people already consider us one unit, but I want to reinforce that. Things must be tough on you and it's tough on me as well, most of our members already regularly bounce back between our packs, in Jewel's case especially I know it's hard on her to make the drive every day from Nightstar to New Dawn, to each of our Infirmaries, so this is what I purpose. We build another Pack House, in the middle of our territories, you may not like this next part but I am also thinking about talking to Jackson and figuring out if his magic can make things a bit more easier. He makes portals with so much ease I wonder if we can implement that into the Pack Houses to make traveling between the three easier."
"That's a bit far off though, I know I've been dragging my feet to accept the Alpha role in New Dawn but now that I have, I think it's time for our people, both Nightstar and New Dawn to have both their Alpha Male and Alpha Female back in their lives. Of course when you find someone to share that role with you, I'll gladly let you. Then we can have the pairs again. I don't think my mate will be taking the role anytime soon, so you won't have to worry about that on my end unless it happens."
"Bottom line, I want our Packs to get stronger together. Even more so than it has been in the past. If you don't like the idea, that's okay too. I don't think that much will change at the end of the day but if it's something you're not okay with, then I won't mention it again."
-
No, Davion didn't care that he now had the space to stretch out, he continued to keep close to Hallie, to which he gave Archard a charming smile that said his plan had failed to separate the two.
"Some scotch on the rocks sounds good." Davion winked at the man.
"Double that." Killian kept his eyes on the laptop though, watching as Brook was helping herself to a plate of food. He wished he could be there with her, already counting the days when it was Timothy's or Ruby's turn to babysit.
Evanna finally got up, turning and seeing Maddox still leaning on the wall with Juliette. She walked past them, moving to Archard, "I'll help you." She didn't wait for a response, instead fleeing from the room before she could hear Maddox's or Juliette's response from the butler's question.
She gritted her teeth, the estate felt bigger without the rest of the Constantine Family, bigger and quieter and emptier too. She made it to the kitchen, going to her uncle's stash of liquors and getting the bottle out. She poured herself a hefty amount and shot it down quickly, her eyes watered lightly, she sniffed back the sudden urge to cry before getting two more glasses and moving over to the fridge where she filled them up with ice and then busied herself making the drinks.
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Post by Thea on Nov 15, 2022 23:42:18 GMT -5
To say the least, it was difficult to speak with his soulmate in anything other than a surface-level kind of talk, much less about what was going on in his mind. With her being reincarnated as their granddaughter's adopted child, most would consider their relationship taboo. More than anything, he wanted to hold her as he has seen here. But he knew that it would not end well. From what he's seen, Jewel really did love Harley as if she were her own blooded daughter - and an understanding heart since she married her father after he laid with a loose woman.
Ludin watched as Harley moved past him, Jewel, and Gem, sending her an equally private, reassuring smile as his granddaughters led the way out to the back porch. He hated the worried look in her eyes, wishing that he could be open with her. For now, though, he settled on the opportunity Andy gave him to be within his territory. As an alpha himself with possessive tendencies, he didn't believe that he would do the same if their positions were reversed. Yet he was a selfish bastard; this was his chance to be with his mate. The only woman he had ever loved in the twelve centuries that he has been alive. He was not about to give it up for unspoken propriety and honor among shifters.
Outside, Jewel sat on the edge of a wicker chair, elbow resting on the arm as she looked up expectantly at him. Gem and Aiden stood, locked together like two pieces of a puzzle. They were made for each other, Ludin had decided long ago and was reminded of it now. Much like Colette was made for him and he for her. He wondered if it was because Colette's mother was from the same planet Aiden was. It would make sense, yet wasn't sure if they would take the news of them being part alien as well as what he was about to tell them now.
It was way past time. He was shown that with Jasper's outburst minutes ago.
"As you two know, I am a demon," Ludin started after a few minutes of contemplative silence on his end. He stood on the steps, arms folded across his chest. With the twin women's piercing stares, he tried very hard not to believe that he was on trial. "But unless your mother told you about our heritage, Jewel, what is not known is how I came to be. Are you familiar with Norse mythology?"
"When Thea was in school she was on a mythology kick," Jewel answered hesitantly, her body subconsciously leaning away from him. She was uncomfortable, Ludin could tell. He wished that he could bring this news to his granddaughters more gently. "But I can't recall much of it."
He knew that Gem was more than familiar. He raised her and Thorn since they were young and have caught them in his personal area multiple times. Playing with his old helmet, going through his runes. As far as they knew, though, he was just a fanatic about the Viking Age. He was just fine playing the crazed historian for them. All good things must come to an end, he thought bitterly, not liking the way Gem's mouth turned down grimly. "Do you know if Thea ever mentioned the gods?"
"Beats me," Jewel replied, leaning back slightly. Scoffing, she rolled her eyes. "But let me guess. You're gonna tell me an' Gem that we're descended from one of them."
Jewel only meant it as a joke. Sarcastic as it was because she didn't feel like laughing. Between her feeling of utter hopelessness in the cases of her children, her festering guilt for killing the vampires, and growing unease that the shadowy figure could show up at any moment, the last thing she wanted to deal with was another ticking truth bomb about her ancestry. It had been bad enough learning that she was related to witches during the height of her Christian faith. And while she had no such reservations anymore, she was not going on some sort of quest because she had god blood in her.
"Yes, but it's more than that."
Jewel looked over at Gem, whose hands were gripping Aiden's tattooed forearms for dear life. White-knuckled, Gem looked sicker at the news than exasperated like Jewel was. It had Jewel leaning toward her sister, with whom she'd grown close. "Hey, you okay?"
"Um, yeah," Gem murmured uncertainly, looking at the man that had been more a father to her than grandfather. She felt ... betrayed, she guessed was a good word. First, she finds out that he was not a werewolf, but a demon. And now he was tacking on even more stuff that he should have revealed in the very beginning. She was seeing Anderson in a new light.
Not to mention, Norse mythology didn't have a lot of happy endings. For fuck's sake, one legend told the tale of Balder, the God of Joy, being killed with no hope of resurrection. There was no sitcom closure or tying of loose ends. The dead train to die all over again in Ragnarok, the Norse equivalent of the apocalypse. It was not hard to believe her grandfather - he was a secret keeper, but he always made it a point to be honest with her and Thorn. And if she believed that her mate was an alien dragon stuck in a human form because of his misdeeds, then she had a little bit of an open mind to believe this as well. "Who are we related to?"
Ludin took a steadying breath, putting his hands on his hips. "My father is Fenrir, son of the god Loki and giantess Angrboda. It's not something that I am proud of and would have preferred not to say anything at all. Your mother knew, as well as her siblings, only because I was not sure if they would be sought out by forces that would cause them harm to get at me. I was ..." he paused for a few moments, hating how he was being forced to face his past yet again. This was a part of the price of his life, he thought. "I was not a good person. I did things I wish I could undo all to bring honor to those that didn't deserve it. I ran from my homeland because I had more enemies than friends in the end. Half of the gods included. Of course, there's been discourse throughout all our lives, but nothing that I've noticed has stemmed from my choices in my younger years."
Jewel took a steadying breath in, feeling her anger rising up within her. No, she didn't know who Loki or Fenrir were, nor did she care to. She went all this time not knowing, but according to her grandfather, she and her family could have very well been affected by what he did centuries ago. The thought of her children, her husband, and her siblings being attacked by forces much larger than they were simply because they were related to Anderson turned her blood to lava. "So why tell us now?" she snapped before clicking her teeth closed.
"Because I saw my father in Jasper today."
Jewel scoffed, "I don't know who the fuck your father is. You're going to have to elaborate."
She saw a spark of anger similar to her own light up her grandfather's firey blue eyes. "There is no need to curse at me, pup."
"I'm no pup," she shot back, standing up slowly. One hand still gripped the arm of the wicker chair, while the other balled up by her hip. "I haven't been one in a long time. You are a guest in my house, telling Gem and me things that should have been disclosed long ago, and are saying that my son reminds you of your father without saying why as if I'm not already worried about his sanity. Right now, I don't want to listen to family stories. Tell me what sticks out to you about Jasper and do not disrespect me."
There was a battle of wills then, Gem noticed, eyes moving back and forth as if she was at a tennis match. Her grandfather with his slighted ego versus her twin sister's maternal rage. Two equally dangerous entities. Both disastrous if they were to be let loose. Gem had to do something. She was a warrior, yes. But that didn't mean she liked fighting if it can be helped. "Fenrir was a wolf whose only sin was getting too big for the Aesir gods' liking," she interrupted gently. Jewel was the first to look in her direction. A shocked pang shot down Gem's spine when she noticed her eyes. Jewel told her that it was because of the shadowy being that had been haunting both of her dreams, but there was a difference of being told and actually seeing her eyes being bled of their color. From her pupils, white spread through her irises, leaving only a thin ring of brown holding on by a thread. Was that going to happen to her? "He got tied up and a sword shoved in his mouth. If he were ever to be free, he would start Ragnarok - or the end of the world. He's nearly been free multiple times. And if he does, he will devour everything he comes across."
"Think of Jade as Jasper's ties. He was fine before he met her, but since then he's been wrapped around her finger, yes?" Ludin shifted his weight back on his heels, deflating slightly but the beast within him still felt disrespected. "If we do not tie him back up I have no doubt Jasper will wreak havoc on everything he can get his hands on."
Jewel opened her mouth to disagree, but after a few moments she closed her mouth and exhaled hard through her nose. Jasper had never been the type to blow up. He was her gentle giant with the wisdom of a monk and the patience of a saint. What few words he spoke were fortune cookie-esque. But since Jade's disappearance he was becoming more like what Thea used to be. Short fuse, hard to break through to. Thea told her that while Jasper was at the Guild he slammed someone into the wall for mentioning what all transpired between Selena and Nathaniel so hard he pierced their lungs with fractured rib bones. While Jewel would have expected that from Thea never would she have thought Jasper capable of doing such a thing. With a low defeated groan the mother buried her face in her hands and scrubbed hard. She didn't understand completely what it meant for her and her children to be descended from a mythical wolf that was supposed to cause the apocalypse. She didn't want to find out the hard way.
"We can talk later on this. Right now I want to go back inside."
***
Everything Ventia was laying out sounded great to Andy. Until she brought up Jackson.
The gorilla shifter knew how hard it was for Jewel to travel the distance between the hearts of the Nightstar and New Dawn. Two hours one way ... he knew he couldn't do it himself. He had offered the position of Head Medic to Orso, but Orso didn't want a leadership position. Besides, every time Andy asked Jewel if she needed help she would tell him no and mention how honored she was to be such a huge part of both packs. From Andy's understanding she was a pack wolf from birth; her loyalties lied with her home first and foremost.
He palmed the back of his neck and arched his back subconsciously. His spine cracked long and loud, giving him sweet relief. "We're not going to be able to hide behind the Cobert name for long," Andy murmured, almost to himself. It was a worry of his since he came to the conclusion Adewale and Maria weren't coming back and Jewel said that Azalea was nowhere to be found. So far though, there was no problems coming out of the Neutral lands and the Outsiders were still "faithfully" patrolling the New Dawn's borders. The mention of having someone fill the role of Nightstar Luna had Andy snorting in amusement, already having come to terms that he was going to die a single man. Though distantly he was interested when Ventia mentioned her own mate. He knew she had children but it just never occurred to him how they had been made.
"No, no," Andy said quickly, shaking his head once. "I really like the idea. There's too much land between the two of us and not enough manpower to sustain it. If we come off as one to any potential threats instead of just two allies maybe then they'll think twice before attacking. The New Dawn is making great strides in the werewolf testing, I don't want it to be destroyed when hunters and rogues get power happy.
"I just ..." Andy paused and sighed. It wasn't in him to hate a singular person but he absolutely loathed Jackson. "I dont trust him. Haven't since I saw what he did to Nathaniel and I don't like the idea of magic in the first place. Its too chaotic. No, finicky. And with Jackson having no loyalty to either pack I don't want for anything to come back and bite us in the asses later."
***
Rikara watched in amusement, perfectly content to "be on the back burner" as the television said once. This way she could see the interactions of Thea and Katie. Before Thea was able to say anything about "making him wait for a bit" Harley had come and was teasing her much like Jackson did. But what she wasn't expecting was for Harley to include her so quickly. This had Rikara fighting off a broad grin until she realized what Harley meant. "Oh, no I am not familiar with the dating here," she said sheepishly. She wasn't even sure what Jackson was to her. She had no right to give advice.
Thea nodded her head slowly. "I mean, you did let me know that he was actually flirting with me." Then she looked at her younger sister. "I'm utterly hopeless when it comes to things like this and Kate has been my wingman. So far so good." Then she choked out a squawk of embarrassment when Ventia spoke in passing. "Agh, no! We don't need to make this a competition!"
"You really don't," Brooklyn mused, finding it amusingly intriguing that hard-ass Thea was obsessing over a boy. The line for the food went right past the talking women on the other side of the bar. With her superhuman hearing she picked up on their low tones and couldn't help but to say something. "First you need to see where he plans to take you. Can't very well wear a dress to an amusement park."
All the while she felt Killian's gaze on her as if he were across the room and not across the world. She glanced at the computer but didn't need the confirmation. Ever since she had been kidnapped, their bond had, indeed, gotten stronger. She was especially attuned to her trouble-making fiance. Don't stare at my ass in front of everyone, Cole, she teased in their mated bond, chuckling. It's not appropriate.
***
Hallie didn't miss Archard's less-than-enthused eyebrow quirk at Davion's drink of choice, but she was more concerned with the fact that she didn't ask for the same thing. Then again, she wasn't fond of scotch, preferring instead to have a bit of fun in life with her Sex on the Beach or Cosmopolitans. Drinks that got plain white boys like her ex in a tizzy because they would never be caught dead drinking them because they were pink even though they had a higher alcohol content than their fizzy wheat water. Hallie rolled her eyes and rested her head in one hand with an elbow braced on the table. She was in the mood for a margarita but used up last of the mix last night.
The desire to drink gripped her hard. Hallie felt as helpless as a newborn pup, stuck in a shitty diaper with everyone staring at her dumbfounded. Her best friend had been taken to some realm of a death god thing, her potential in-laws wanted her dead, and she caught with her hands tied in either situation worried that the man that was meant for her wanted to use her for his own personal gains.
Gods, what she wouldn't give to be in a drunken stupor right now.
Maybe she could play the delicate waif that everyone thinks she was enough to be excused from sitting there watching everyone eat. Fake a headache or a stomach bug and excuse herself to her room. It wouldn't be too far off - worry nagged at her constantly until this very moment in which it evolved into fear. Logically, she knew that her family would to everything in their power to make sure she wouldn't die, but there was this what if? Never was she the type to ask those questions. She never would have thought she would be faced with the unknown and dread the other side.
Evanna's words jolted her out of her funk like a jolt of electricity, and she raised her head to watch her cousin practically run as if there was a fire lit under her feet. She started to get up, finding this both an excuse to leave herself and console Eva at the same time. Though when Maddox peeled himself from the wall and excused himself she sat back down with a huff. "Scoot over, Uncle Killian," she groused, pulling her phone out so that she could text the group chat she and her sisters were in. Soooooo is the meeting done? I've got things to make. Namely her aunt's veil. To Davion, she asked, "So what is your plan, now that my brother isn't able to interrupt."
Maddox made his way into the kitchen after Orville whined in greeting to Evanna, his movements slow as if not to startle her. With a flick of his middle fingers his gauntlets retracted into the suit, leaving his hands bare. "Need any help, Bonny?"
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