"It's just I might get distracted, and I get lost kind of easily, and sometimes I have really bad days...when, you know, I just want to hide or scream or bleed or something, and...all that..." - Delirium, in Brief Lives, by Neil Gaiman

The world was peculiarly devoid of color that evening. Viki was determined to fill it. The night, with its black sky and dark clouds, seemed anxious to swallow the ground, the sea, the air? She had wandered into the Inn that evening with only the best of intentions: coloring the world.

?Good evening to you. What can I get for you?? The tender?s voice was naturally polite, though he seemed unfamiliar.

?Uhm. Something in a particular shade of blue. Not light blue, mind you. I think perhaps there is a wine.? Her eyes became little slits of nothing as she squinted at the wall.

?There is an Elvin sapphire I think highly of... let me get a goblet of that for you...?

?Thank you. Bel'la dos. Amvel.? All three tongues came rushing forth in a mad fury.

Time ticked by slowly at first. Viki nursed her drink, sipping at the Elvin spirit intermittently. Color returned for a time. It had been long since she had anything to drink besides water.

The crowd murmured their quiet conversations. Nothing seemed of interest ? not yet. Nothing cried for notice. There were no screams from anything inanimate or deceased.

It was only when Sid decided to join their ranks did the seer snap to attention, her eyes glittering with full alertness. A slow smile found its way to her young face.

She looked her way and blew a kiss.

A kiss! A kiss! The voices were back.

The girl looked amused. Perhaps that kiss took the shape of lips, red and full, lingering in the air in the spaces by the door. She traced it with her finger before the shadows devoured it whole.

But the shadows were busy creatures. Viki twitched at her perch.

You feel that. Feeeeeel that?

Indeed, a strange feeling had washed over her lithe body, and her spine set itself straight. Her head shifted, side to side, for a look around.

Sid was at the other end of the bar, surrounded by one Jack Scot, and Icer, and a strange boy Viki had never met. She slipped from the barstool and wandered near, stepping short just shy of Sid?s circle.

?'ello, sweetlin'.? Sid?s smile was a constant presence.

?Vendui'. Hello.? The girl blinked as several tongues spilled forth yet again, and sandman-speak was sure to follow if she hadn?t stopped herself. ?There are...? Her words trailed off, but she weaved concern between the pauses, and warnings too.

But the seer endeavored to convey the message again, even as the circle around Sid carried on separate conversations. They were a distraction.

?There are..? What were there? Realities shifted and memory rewound as Sight seemed determined to make its point. ?There just are!? Alas, the girl was too frantic to do it correctly, and her head snapped side to side, with her eyes searching shadow.

?There be...? Sid began, urging her on with a soft smile.

?Penned poison things I think. They smell of ink. Fresh. Near.?

Enemies taking notice, you mean.

?There be those?? Sid gestured to the front door and the men who stood before it.

Doors. Of course! Why had she not tried this word? But it was an opening, a passage within and without. Her large eyes set their sights upon them and the beings which lingered near.

?Why?? Concern for the ancient is obvious. It trampled across her face.

But Sid, even in an atmosphere of doom and gloom, seemed hell bent on pleasantries. Or, maybe she was simply playing it cool.

?Viki, I dun believe ye 'ave met me mate. Scottie. Scottie this be Tara Rynieyn Talomar's cousin, Viki.?

?Yes. Cousin.? The girl repeated the relation with something of pride. ?Blood of my blood who is Blood.?

Scottie?s eyes were observant little creatures in their own right, and it was clear too, that he was entirely male. ?Hello luv.?

Only after the introductions were complete did Sid answer Viki?s concerned ?Why??

?For me, sweetlin',? she began. ?I believe I mus' 'ave done somethin' to yotz off the 'rents.? Laughter followed. It was warm and dark and rich like honey, reminding her of Alma instantly.

Sid?s laughter was not enough to soothe the seer. The girl?s fingers had snatched up tidbits of fabric from her dress and began to twist it with growing anxiety. Her eyes grew too, wide for Sid?s words.

?It be a'right, Viki.? Sid said, gesturing perhaps to one man over the other. The first had gone to the bar, and seemed to drink and converse with the tender in a way that bordered on jovial. The other still lingered near the door. It was the latter that Sid addressed. ?He be jus' wantin' to torture me a bit. Mayhaps smell me mate here.?

?Torture.? The girl?s brows dipped into a sharp frown, and she leered at the man from afar.

?Packmate will come if need be..? She added quickly.

Oh you have never called him that before, have you? We wonder if Domikai feels the same. You are but his second, and beta.

?An' than' ye, Viki. Let us hope to keep others out o' harm's way for as lon' as possible. Aye??

?Xas.? Viki only half understood these dealings, from both the Ancient's words and the sights and sounds and sensations she felt, both in the physical and in the psychic. Her thoughts were clouded, muddled?

After that, Sid seemed all for the attentions of her mate, Scottie, but perhaps she watched the man by the door from the mirror over the bar. Viki was rather terrified of mirrors and averted her eyes at all times.

Do you think mirror girl is still watching you?

Instead, veering far from Sid?s discretion, she turned herself fully toward the stranger. Her eyes were sharp and bore teeth. She lifted a finger to trace his outline. She would have him fully etched into memory before the night was through. Blue-green swirls of color shone brilliantly in their task.

?Viki, sweet??

The Ancient?s voice calls.

?Xas.? But the girl?s head did not turn toward Sid, and neither did her eyes.

?Be careful o' tha' one's fingers, Viki. Ezpecially if'n he moves to kiss them at ye.?

But did the Ancient not do the same upon entrance? What has she taken from you, little light?

It didn?t matter. And, unfortunately, Viki had already attracted his attention. He was deep in his study before Sid?s warning could be processed, though he did not move to blow her a kiss. Not yet.

?Blood of all the same color..? Her words fell to knowing ears, and she nodded quietly, but to no one in particular. ?Fingers? Spider-things.? Her eyes darkened, and her brows tightened and fell into place, deepening that severe little frown.

Revelations came quickly in Viki?s study of the stranger, too.

?Why if they fly do they walk?? She asked of Sid, taking her hands to her mid-section, then pinning them together at their sides. She waved them awkwardly, like wings perhaps.

The Ancient knows these things. Look up. Look who is coming for you.

Sure enough, the man in question was closing the distance.

?Very intriguing. You must call me right before you die, you would make such an excellent servant.? He spoke so very softly to her as he drew near.

Gabriel.

?Name like bells.? Viki said as the soft tones of his voice graced the elegant curves of each odd earlobe.

Sunrise always burns my eyes
But I'm not tired
No, I won't sleep for hours
This city's old and full of ghosts
I can see their skulls
It makes no sense at all
- Kill Hannah

Viki?s eyes were large and clouded with memories of other places. Tina. Tina?s voice was calling her name, or some term of endearment.

?Tina...? The seer?s voice was small and soft. ?Where are you?? She could hear the younger girl, but could not see past the visions.

?Here I am, bee eff, big as life and twice as mean.? Tina positioned herself in front of Viki and waved her hand over her eyes. In an instant, the motion had broken the seer?s focus, and with a mixture of relief and gratitude, her eyes met Tina?s.

?Do naut call his name when I die.? Victoria gestured to the departing figure, but by then, he was nothing more than a shadow, and soon that was gone too.

Sid?s voice broke her world next. Viki snapped to attention. Her eyes were wide and wild things, burning with knowledge, but in a confused and disordered timeline. Her face was full of questions.

But it was Tina who spoke. ?You ok there girl? That sonic blast of a scream of yours put some real hurt on him!?

?Was that voiced? I did not realize.? Viki considered the newest revelation with a finger to her lower lip.

Yes. You were screaming. Do you not remember? We heard you for miles and miles. Who knows what that scream will later attract.

?Aye, Viki. An' I than' ye,? said Sid, who overheard Tina?s comment about the sonic scream.

?Yep, him and the Doggie guy too, that's a great pair of lungs you got there!? Tina?s words were bubbles but her face was still full of concern.

You see? You did attract the attention of another. And another still to come!

?Packmate must know,? said the seer.

And there you go, calling him that again. We wonder if the other mate will be so pleased.

?I dun wan' ye hurt, or him, Viki. If'n ye mus' tell, do so but keep safe. An' keep ye packmate to promise the same.? The Ancient said softly. She was now carefully curled about her lover, Scottie, who seemed to recover from the blow Gabriel had dealt just moments before.

?Do not call his name when I die. Must tell Skado.? Viki?s face darkened, and something crossed it. Fear?

?He willna know ye time, Viki,? the Ancient promised.

Viki nodded gravely. ?You will take me then. To the lost one, the one of gold and blue. I want to be with her.? These were half things of the past. Sid would understand, and if not, Tara definitely would. The seer was perhaps relieved by this information, and smiled in spite of everything else.

Gold and blue? Kat LeFay. But we cannot hear her, and neither can you.

?Ye 'ave nae call to worry o' tha', sweet. Gentle arms be rockin' to ye final dance.? Promises and kind reassurances glided from the Ancient and filtered into the air about the Seer. Viki?s eyes fell shut as her words were processed, their warmth apparent. Her body shifted in step, as if to sway in said arms, and she nodded softly.

Sid and Scottie began to take their leave of the Inn. The number of patrons had trickled to a few fifteen, and the tender was still obviously steamed about the bar brawl on his watch. With Gabriel gone, it seemed a good time to go, but first, Scottie approached the seer.

With open eyes all for Sid?s mate, Viki turned to Scot, who held out a bright green ribbon in offering. She studied it, and him, for several moments, before accepting it with some quiet curiosity.

Grass green mysteries. He means to fix your broken luck.

?Amvel.? Sandman speak had taken her tongue again, and Viki weaved the ribbon into the fabric of her dress. Later, it would be sewn and stitched, forever a part of the material. This was a special dress.

When the Ancient and her lover had finally left, Viki snagged a hold of Tina?s hand and small footsteps carried her and the girl in tow toward Tasha. She wanted to be near Tara?s family ? Bloods. She wanted blood. Warmth. Familiar and familial, even if she was not Blood. Tasha was seated across the way, speaking to the one Tina had referred to as ?Doggie,? and the other stranger, whose name also sounded like bells. Viki?s eyes were heavy things when they fell on the latter.

Her ears were keen, too. She heard things in parts and pieces:

?Ruination has ye to visit the realms of mortality, my friend.?

?You have knowledge of ruination. You have been there once. I know what you are. As you obviously know what I am. But the ones you have met....are they like me truly? As I said in the prelude of this conversation, creature....I am unique. I am true.?

But Tina disrupted the eavesdropping by taking her leave. The girl had an appointment, perhaps, and she apologized with a kiss to the seer?s hand.

The conversation continued. It was Tasha who spoke next.

?Daugie there is a Dracolitch Cam. Not just a creature. The thing that attacked us the other night.. "That" was a creature.. Daug's just.. Daug.?

Their words brought new illustrations. With every breath, Viki struggled to make sense of their reality, and the new one that bloomed in her brain.

She saw much.

?Tasha.? Viki?s singsong voice was frail and broken.

?Yeah Viki?? The woman?s hand landed on the girl?s shoulder with a gentle pat.

The seer shifted her focus, then slipped to Tasha?s side, pinning herself there.

?Danger. Dark.?

Tasha?s arm drew around Viki?s shoulders. She merely nodded.

?Blood of blood..? The seer continued, and distorted bits of prophecy were quick to follow. She said something of ?two wars? and then a steady stream of nonsense.

?I know and means we all need to be careful,? Tasha said.

?My cousin Tara..? The idea began, but it broke into pieces. Its ruination is not quite final, and maybe it could be resurrected if she blew on it hard enough. So she did. Her lips puckered and spilled air.

?Is Tara alright Viki??

But the girl only nodded, the movement shifted curls which bounced over a set of too-blue, too-green eyes. ?Fine, but Blood. I am not.?

There is something else within those words, woven to the family name. There was a twitch, and a loud sigh, before words followed: ?Amthy dies.. Tara loses.. her way. It's all chopped up. Like carrots.?

Viki liked carrots, usually.

?Your related to Tara therefore you are protected by us too Viki.? Tasha assured her.

?Bloods,? said the jovial one whose name also sounded like bells. ?A legend for young children...souleaters and those who commune with the dead.?

The seer?s eyes lifted suddenly and settled on the stranger. Perhaps they stole pieces of him, small bits of his aura as they stared.

?The dead say? hello.?

Was that a bit of humor in her voice? Not likely. It was more likely that they were surrounded by small spirits, all of them offering a greeting.

?They never say hello back.? The stranger grinned.
Viki nodded to Tasha, grateful, and sat back, no longer glued to her side.

?I would be so.. there to catch.. family-but-not,? the girl added.

Tasha and the stranger exchanged more words, but much of it was lost. The outside was spilling inside again, bringing with it stranger curiosities, and stranger people still, and a newcomer had set his sights right on the seer.

His name was Mr. Howe, but Victoria did not know it yet, and the shadows refused to give it up.

That was fine. She picked up other things. Her eyes were sharp, keen things, and all for his aura.

?Firefly?? Confusion and fear crossed her face all at once, because some kind of green light had clearly crossed his.

Not his face. His mind. It is full of her. Amthy.

I watch the patchwork farms' slow fade into the ocean's arms
And from here they can't see me stare
- The Postal Service

Red Dragon Inn: Two days prior.

The air was thick that night, warmed by the dying stretch of Spring, ignited by a few flaring tempers.

"You just messed with the wrong person, and tonight I have an endless bloodlust little one, now run home to the BHO and be done with it I ain't paid to slay innocents you *&^%!"

Glanhelmion Tasartir, Trueblood, stood just a few feet from her cousin Tara. The venom which dripped from his animated words was enough to draw the seer closer, and she cut the distance like it was nothing, and stepped protectively in front of her cousin with a growl.

"Messed with the wrong.. Why you dun know who you is talkin to!" She huffed.

"Take caution." Viki whispered.

The seer's words were lost as per usual, as Tara simply shoved a blade into her hands, curled her fists, and put them up in front of her face, baiting Glanhelmion.

The instant the blade was passed, a dark brightness took hold of her face and crossed her young features. Viki grinned.

"C'mon! Let's see what ya got ya slimy bastard! Callin me a bitch! Why I'll have you as my next three course meal!" Tara clamored.

Glanhelmion took a defensive stance, drawing a blade of his own.

"You wanna' dance *Girlie's* Well you asked the wrong person."

Viki's fingers were tight, clenching the hilt. The blade was singing, or perhaps crying. Her eyes became slits, and it was a distraction that could've cost her much if the enemy wasn't so slow to move, and so quick with many mayn words.

But Tara shoved her protectively out of the way. "You keep outta this! I got this one!"

Space became a jumbled mess, and where her feet once stood, a cousin stood instead. Viki frowned crossly, but held the blade still. She had much practice in dealing with blades now.

"Why dun ye be givin' tha' to me, sweet?" Sid's voice broke her concentration, the Ancient's voice and her outstretched hand.

"Packmate has taught me much.." The girl looked torn, and reluctant to release the blade, which sang so sweetly, possessed perhaps, and the seer knew it.

Tara and Glanhelmion faded from few. Their clashing words were non existent.

"I understan'. If'n ye be sure, Viki." Sid was always so careful when it came to her. She wouldn't push.

"There is a crying.." She took several steps to Sid, and perhaps, the girl thought, she smelled of all the elements rolled into one, and perhaps she saw worlds on each of the Ancient's fingertips. She swayed, then steadied herself, and her eyes fell to the blade.

"Wrong. All wrong." Viki stepped back to examine the weapon suddenly, and her arms were instantly heavy, and the blade heavier. Her head snapped up, and her eyes became clouded and distant, not too unlike her usual seer ways, but there was something off about them. What was once green and blue was perhaps a bit darker.

"Look get that blade back, so I keep the money I earned from that kill and you got a deal." Glanhelmion stomped his boots when he spoke.

"An' for the last time it ain't YER BLADE!" Tara roared.

"Let me 'ave tha', sweet. I be takin' gran' care o' it." Sid's voice broke through the chaos, and her hand remained outstretched, beckoning and welcoming all at once.

Instead of handing the sword over to Sid, Viki dropped it, simply dropped it. Dark energy spilled from its source, and the girl was instantly repulsed. Something did inhabit the weapon, something sinister, alive and stretched about steel. As it went crashing to the floor, the vibration shattered her reality. Overwhelmed and clearly distraught, Viki rushed into Sid's awaiting arms. Instead of a blade, the Ancient received a girl.

"You smell of distant places, of newborn stars," said the seer.

The Ancient held her tight, breathing her in as well. "Ye be one o'mine, Viki."

Their connection was memorized and mesmerizing.

"Nae one will harm ye. Ye can call for me... Manon."

When she walks down the street,
She knows there's people watching.
The building fronts are just fronts,
To hide the people watching her.
- Interpol

Red Dragon Inn: One day prior.

"My name is Viki. I do naut know if you caught that yesterday, with all the yelling and the crashing and the crying from inside of your sword."

"My name is Glanhelmion Tasartir, pleasure to meet you, I am honored to be graced by your presence."

Red Dragon Inn: Earlier in the day that matters.

Glanhelmion and Tara were at it again.

"You and I are going to have a little chat, Mr. Tasartir.. And you're going to listen. Is this very clear to you?"

Viki caught sight of them from across the room and wandered over. She hovered by their table, with an idly tapping of slippered feet, half-listening to their words. Time drifted. She would holds its hand and turn away from them if they weren't to careful..

"Join me if you wish Viki, I am honored." Glanhelmion beckoned her near, and she happily followed, slipping into his booth in Tara's utter dismay.

"That is Princess Victoria, to you, Glanhelmion. That is my cousin you just addressed. I won't have you neglecting her title." Tara snapped, then, softened. "As for your attitude the other eve, well, I'm glad you apologized because I was going to suggest an adjustment."

"Tara-tara. This is Glanhelmion. He gave me sound. I like him. The sound is like the way their names are in my ears." Strange words for the relative, but Viki nodded in agreement. This one was to be considered "Okay."

"I apologize Lady Victoria, and Madam Tara."

"He called me lady!" Viki was all giggles and clutched the side of the table.

"And that is Queen Tara, to you. I am neither 'lady' nor 'Madam'. I was born a princess of two kingdoms and here you are talking to me like I'm some courtesan or a lower ranking member of a court. Do try not to make the same mistake again." Tara's eyes shot from Glanhelmion to Viki. "How do you know this male? Has he made you pregnant? Good God, tell me it isn't so!"

Viki's giggled swelled and grew into all-out laughter. "Nau cousin!"

"I'll not have you shacking up with a minstrel, Victoria. So if you haven't yet slept with the male but are thinking about it, I'd ask that you masturbate until such a time that a suitable mate can be found."

Viki's jaw nearly dropped from her face. Tara still knew nothing of Domikai, and perhaps it wasn't the best time to tell DCK where she'd been living all the while.

"Cousin.. there are things in the walls which would hear you."

"I helped pay for these walls, dear, so let them listen. If they've been paying attention all these years than they know better than to tell others lest I do to them what I've done to others that have betrayed me."


Betrayal. Does she know what he did? Does she know the secret you keep?

The seer's spine sunk against the booth, hoping the shadows would swallow her whole.

Tara frowned. "Are you unwell, cousin?"

Poor Glanhelmion sat between them, confused as ever, and stared between intakes of his Elven clove.

"Well is loo.." Viki's lips pursed over the sond. Llew was well spelled backwards.

Time passed between Tara's threats and Glanhelmion's increasing uneasiness. Viki twirled a finger idly about a stray lock of white. So odd. Such an odd girl. Her eyes spilled equal strangeness as they flickered from Tara to Glan.

"Dun worry. She knows you aren't the lover I think."

"Sure just... anything whatever sure." His words were short, and perhaps slurred.

"Oh, xas. Do naut worry about the cousin. Tara just loves me.. I can feel it whirling about her all the time. It takes little shapes. Do you see them? She always has these little shapes hanging from the corners of..." The sentence was severed the instant a new presence was felt.

The Presence. Ahhh. She felt him slither in through the front door. Bad guys like him never took the back door, no, and bad guys like him were always immaculately dressed.

Mr. Howe's gaze fell upon the seer and the company she kept.

"Snakeskin," said the girl, and she stood at once to attention, her eyes a brilliant off-blue for the entryway.

Glanhelmion, still speaking between smoking, batted away his confusion for the seer's words and snapped to attention.

"Whatsup? And Who in the hell is Snakeskin?"

"Seeking the firefly," she whispered as realities bent and wove at will, and she found she couldn't keep her senses straight.

People began to fill the Inn and swarm the bar. The air buzzed with conversation.

But Mr. Howe was still watching with his signature beady eyes.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

Glanhelmion and Viki kept their conspiratory whispers to themselves.

We wonder why the Trueblood follows you now. That is why he introduced himself, and sits with you now, and he will surely watch you later. Your eyes are everywhere but your shadow. He seems to want to protect. But from what? What would the lover think?

"Do you hear that?" Her eyes were half slits for the shadows. She nudged Glan's side with a small elbow.

"Okay, where are the sounds coming from?" His tone was not altogether patronizing, but he did not verify the fact that he heard what she heard.

"I dun know." She stuck a finger between pursed lips, wet it, and offered it to the air. "Here and everywhere."

At the bar, a pencil tapped a newspaper, one which featured the image of a familiar green-haired pixie.

Tap. Tap. Tap.

"Fireflies light up green.." The girl said beside Glan, adjusting the tuning finger. First, it was for the door, then, a trail from floor to the bar. It is there that she found him again. Seer eyes were all too brilliant. "Snakeskin. There."

Glanhelmion's eyes followed her finger. "Look Viki maybe you should split, because if this gets messy I might have to let the soul from the stone." His voice seemed hard, strained.

"Yes. I think perhaps your sword is crying and I do naut like it. Maybe the inside should be on the outside."

He shook his head. "Different stone, the one that holds me..." His words trailed off as he sensed something the seer did not, and he turned his head to the crowd, watching with keen eyes. "Something is very amiss..."

"A miss? I miss things all the time. Sometimes people.. Like Amthy." But the words slipped out before she could swallow them.

(Author's Note: Lyrics to follow are all Tiger Army.)

Poor Glanhelmion Tasartir. He was the official appointed bodyguard to Tara and Viki, and boy, did he have his hands full these days.

Viki was the Beacon, attracting both friend and foe alike. Lately, it was pretty much all foe. We can count them, if you want. Here: Howe (Snakeskin), Gabriel (Name-Like-Bells), the Farseer Uruviel (the one with the too-big eyes eating up everything), and Lucy and Alex Ravenlock, and Lain (the Doll), after she had involved herself with the attempt on Jewell Ravenlock's life.

Poor Glanhelmion Tasartir. He sent shadow sentinels to watch after her and her lover Domikai when they departed for Unhome. Unfortunately, Domikai was a desertman, a creature of shadow too, and usually Glanhelmion's shadow sentinels were eaten alive by Domikai's own.

Poor Glanhelmion Tasartir. It made his job all the more difficult, but he neglected to tell the Sandman of his mission, and the Sandman neglected to tell the seer about the shadow sentinels.

And shadows neglect to scream when they die.

So we'll open to one night in particular, with Glanhelmion battling the Farseer. It is only appropriate for what comes later. You'll see.

A thousand miles we are apart
So tightly wrapped in thorns my heart
My song is heard in owls' cries
And through the darkness my love shines

Red Dragon Inn: That Night in Particular, about a half hour later.

She tried to explain the situation on the porch to Lady Belial, but it came out something like this:

"This lady with the too-big eyes outside tried to fit herself into my head and maybe you should go see because Glanhelmion is still out there though I believe he lopped her hand off." Then, with a small lopsided smile, she added, "Paint all over."

Ayreg didn't do much better with his explanation:

"Just some elf I barely remember and some person I didn't know having it out."

Belial excused herself and stepped out onto the porch to investigate. Viki took this all in with some quiet amusement, despite the fact that Glanhelmion was covered in blood and body parts just a few feet away. Other things were coming to light here, secret exchanges between beings both near and far. Her fingers twirled into her mismatched hair, catching locks of white and chestnut, tangling them all the moreso as she peered up at Ayreg in quiet study.

"Smoke?" He asked her quietly, reaching for a pouch latched to his belt. It wasn't the first time he offered her his pipe, and it wasn't the first time she accepted it, but it might've been the last.

"Oh! Xas, thank you." She tried to tone down the enthusiasm as she popped back into his view, onto his right side, with an upturned head and eyes in search of his pipe.

"You're a strange little thing, you know that, right? C'mon." He wrapped an arm around her and escorted her to the couch. "So how did that start, anyway?"

"Well.. The door spoke first and I hissed at it and she appeared."

"Hissed at it? Doesn't seem suitable, I think, for you." He presented her with his pipe and fished for his matches. It smelled of tabacco and old air.

With a twitch of her nose, the pipe was taken between delicate fingers and pressed into her mouth. "I can hiss
now. I learned how." The words were spoken through a bobbing pipe.

"And I have learned a long time ago how to snake a soul from someone's body without a touch. But that doesn't mean that I should, understand?" He lit the pipe for her and instructed her on how to properly smoke it.

"Yes but you made that lady melt that one time... " She flicked the pipe back and forth for a while, then did as he instructed, watching the smoke billow forth, up and out, and she squinted to watch for shapes.

"Yes... well.." He finished the thought with some signature Ayreg incomprehensible grumbling.

In the flames of candles in your room
In the smallest sliver of a waning winter moon
Electric like a neon sign
Yes, through the darkness my love shines

Red Dragon Inn: That Night in Particular, in sync.

The inanimate speak:

Look at how she presses closer to you. It is as if you both feed off of each other. She, who smells of distant universes, of newborn stars... You, on the other hand, are a raging electrical storm. So, we beg to ask, is the universe ordered or disordered? Does she match your chaos or does she kill it? We understand your attraction to each other far better than either of you. Watch.

Now. Yes. Now. Watch.

Now she will speak the words she wishes to speak.

She asks you about the unrealities, about the planes you travel to within and without. She wants to be in-between like you. She asks about the Sun. Is the Sun real? Is the Moon real? Does the Moon birth the Sun? We cannot make much sense of what she says and yet you nod your pretty little mismatched head as if you do.

She asks you to take her there. She wants to walk the paths you walk. Your mate walks them, but look at the price he has paid, at the price you both have paid. She needs you, and we know why. Her mate is still wondering what you are. Your mate wonders the same thing.

We can tell you what you are, but we don't think you'll understand. It is the other part, not of Dark Elf or Human. But even now, you are puzzled by what you hear.

Her mate is there listening, as is the Dark One, the one who calls you Daughter on the inside. Neither of them understand, but they might want to follow. Fate has other plans for the latter. Perhaps Manon's mate can follow, but we think he'll just get Lost, and Lost, though a popular destination, is not a pleasant one.

Are you listening?

Are you..?

And in the darkest hour of night
Moments before sleep comes and dreams come into sight
Just know that you are on my mind
And through the darkness my love shines

Red Dragon Inn: And Several Nights After That

The air smelled of electrical storms and sweet wines. It would certainly announce her arrival. Small slippered feet were all pitter-patter on the cobblestone path. She wore a smile on her face and levity on her shoulders. Her delicate fingers were tangled with the lover's as they made their way along, with her singing some song she pieced together, snippets of languages both known and foreign to her. Perhaps at one point, it told a story. Now, it was just one big melodic ramble as they drew closer to the porch.

Domikai the Sandman, Victoria the seer, together tonight.

?Little song bird...? He remarked between a pause in her song and a pause in his smoking. His strides were slowed to match her own as they walked.

Her off-blue eyes rolled into her lover?s and caught that new term of endearment with a small laugh. It broke a big fat hole in her song, and unfortunately, the little seer couldn't piece it back together. No matter. Onto other things, other thoughts. Soon, her eyes were chasing his clove smoke, watching for shapes.

?I see song birds there..? She said with a wrinkled nose and a free hand which turned about all the clean air, reaching higher to upset the trailing cloud of smoke.

His eyes drifted from hers unexpectedly and moved to the awaiting porch.

?Not quite little birds, like nights not quite empty of eyes..? She saw his ears twitch, in search of sound. Her lover was alerted by something which lurked quite near.

But the Sight pushed through.

?I see..? Higher and higher, her hand climbed, reaching to touch what wasn't there at all, but there was something else too. It fell sharply to her side, and she increased the speed of her gait, with him in tow of course. ?..their wings,? said the girl.

?We hear bells.? The sandman said, easily adjusting his stride to meet her new speed. Soon, he untangled his hand from her grip and slipped behind her, but rested a palm on her shoulder.

She played the leader, with her feet approaching the stairwell, and her hand on the edge of the railing. ?Bells,? she whispered, and shot a look to him from over her shoulder, happy to be wearing his hand, but loathe to walk up the steps first. ?Or.. like bells,? she finished.

?Or like watching shadows...? Domikai commented, removing her hand from the railing with a lover?s tender care. Then, drifting in front of her, he ascended the stairs.

She was happy to trail behind him, with half steps at first, and great care to keep her hands at her sides. She abandoned the railing like it wore the taint of a trap. Up one-two-three, and for a moment her eyes flickered to the space beneath the porch, and a memory washed over her from a time not too long ago.

Where things go to die. Where you cried and cried when he first told you what he had done, what he let happen. And you keep his secret even now as he lays in bed in the in-between.

?Good evening Seer. I was hoping to catch you out tonight,? said a voice from the deepest shadows at the far end of the porch. Gabriel caught her off guard. She had been wrapped up in a memory before he announced himself.

She lifted her head, and a temporary terror took hold of her.

?Name-Like-Bells,? she whispered.

Domikai stood agitated from behind her and pulled her close by the shoulder. His shadow was unfocused on the floor and began to take on life, on shape, and rise up, pouring over her legs. Soon, those parts of the seer were completely covered, lost in the dark, in the protective shadow covering.

?Thief of eyes?? The Sandman?s dark eyes were blank as they took in Gabriel, but the seer felt his violence from below.

Gabriel only moved closer, recklessly perhaps, and intent on getting his point across. The seer only pressed her spine to the Sandman?s chest and begged the shadows to hurry, and swallow her up before, before?

?Ah, little seer, I have been watching you. You have been very bad. Stealing.? Gabriel?s voice was a soft, soothing thing, the type one would use to attract, to fold in, to lure.

?Little deaf harpies.? The Sandman?s reply was a strange reference, one perhaps only the seer understood. As if on command, his shadow did rise, and Viki saw her waistline disappear beneath the murky shield.

The seer, the creature of in-betweens, was now in-between the two. With a rustle of patchwork fabric, shifting feet moved to sink deeper against the lover, and, if possible, melt.

?Nau,? she spoke to Gabriel. Her confusion was clear, and fear apparent, but all of it started to disappear as the shadows climbed ever higher. Finally, though she was there, she was hidden, beneath a wall of black.

?I am coming for you, little one. Hide now for it will not stop me from the seeking. I know what you took, seer. It taints you even now. You can't hide from me forever.? The seraph?s soft words would haunt her much later. Perhaps that was his intention.

Though his words penetrated the shadow, thankfully Gabriel did not ? could not. Power hummed electric in the air, rolling off the shrouded seer, who was quivering, unseen.

?Did naut take...? She stuttered, and black was eating everything, even the faint glow of light clinging to her flesh.

?Thief calling thieves lacks merit. She is not yours to have.? Domikai?s voice had increased in volume and bore teeth.

Then, Alma appeared on the porch steps, wearing her signature tweed. Her eyes took in the trio as if in passing, but her held a certain tension as she spoke. Unfortunately, Viki couldn?t see.

?Is there a problem here, creature? Perhaps I might be of assistance??

Before any of them could react, Gabriel had hopped from the porch to settle on the roof of the building across the street. He was quick in his retreat. We?ll give him that.

Viki?s fingers gathered a handful of fabric at either end of a skirt when her anxiety reached a definite climax. Gabriel?s presence, felt so close, even between this wall of shadow, was a nightmare. Teeth sunk into her lower lip, an attempt to stop her quivering, but, just as suddenly as he appeared, he was gone! Not sensed, not smelled.. well, really, do his kind smell? Manon smelled of multiuniverses, of stardust.. She blinked and tugged on the lover's shirt.

But he covets and he waits. Beware.

Alma uttered a bored sigh. ?I do grow weary of men who assume they can prey upon women here.? She followed it up with a bit of laughter and shook her head. ?I will help the girl in need; there is nothing in it of you...?

Alma's honey-combed voice was heard, near, and then, far-off too. Confusion was ever-present, and that tug on his shirt became increasingly furious. ?Where is he??

?It will call stolen that which cannot be taken.? Domikai?s hand still gripped her shoulder, even beneath the blanket of shadow, which he soon allowed to recede.

?Above,? he said in reply.

?Name-Like-Bells. Run if he kisses them at you..? Her hands quickly released the fabric at her sides and fingers were displayed before his eyes. ?Them. These.?

?Kiss of the never living. We see...? His simple words were trailing them as he led her to the door, and consequently, within.

?Manon says.. he'll take you..? But she was still rambling as her feet crossed the threshold, and though the Inn was a sanctuary of sorts, she knew it was not truly safe.

?Some things cannot be caught by little nooses, accepted or non...? The Sandman drew the door shut, as if he could lock out the pair of eyes still watching from across the street. Upon entrance, the pair was received with the usual chatter and occasional friendly wave, the offering of drinks and the familiar service of the Red Dragon Inn. The scene here was very different than what the porch had promised them, but the seer could not shake her distress so easily.

Beware!

It?s in the air
For all our guests to stare
Their speech left pacified
With a cowards glare
- A Static Lullaby

Unhome
Present Day

Winter's chill did not seem to penetrate the Unhome, though skillful Jack threw his frost over the tarp that hung as a makeshift curtain for the door that was not a door. The sleeping seer lay outstretched on their bedding, warmed by the imprint of Domikai?s body. Though he was not with her, his presence was everywhere. His warmth was a powerful adversary for the winter wind, and she carried her lover?s essence even as she wandered. She was often seen with her overcoat flapping in the open air, oblivious to February?s reign.

She woke with a start. Jolted, perhaps by a dream, she shot up and pulled her knees to her chin. Comfort came with a habitual humming-rocking rhythm, and Domikai?s bird stared awkwardly at her, then flapped her wings, as if to mirror Viki?s motions.

Distracted by the bird, the seer snapped out of her daze and crawled from the matt, shifting blankets and bedding alike on one side, but careful so as not to destroy the outline her lover left on the other.

?Did you hear his voice?? She asked the bird, who seemed preoccupied with an intruder insect and paid her no mind.

Ah, little seer, I have been watching you. You have been very bad. Stealing.

The girl shivered, but not for the cold. Frustrated by the bird?s refusal ? or inability ? to answer, Viki threw her coat haphazardly over her shoulders and ducked outside.

?Name-Like-Bells.? She lifted her face to the afternoon sky, marred ever so slightly by a passing cloud. It was three, or perhaps four, she decided, noting the position of the sun and the length of her shadow.

I am coming for you, little one. Hide now for it will not stop me from the seeking. I know what you took, seer. It taints you even now. You can't hide from me forever.

?Can too. Can-do.? She crossed her arms over her middle, then fumbled through the multicolored fabric of her patchwork skirt. After several moments of an awkward dance with her ensemble, she retrieved a small parchment, folded wildly and dog-eared.

?What are you?? She murmured, curling the paper like a child?s telescope and peering through the end.

And, just like that, she walked for several miles, one eye closed, the other fixed and focused through a paper spyglass titled toward the sky.

Your head is humming and it won't go because you don't know
The piper's calling you to join him
Dear lady can't you hear the wind blow and did you know
Your stairway lies on the whispering wind
- Led Zeppelin

The road between Unhome and the woods to the south.
Present Day

Hours passed, and the landscape changed. Forest gave way to flatter lands, and in a clearing, in the midst of early evening, she stopped. The little paper telescope had captured something else besides passing clouds and bleak winter sky. The stars were out, and while that was to be expected, one in particular was more brilliant than the rest. In fact, as she squinted through the paper ring round her eye, Viki could see that the object of interest was not a star at all. In fact, it was changing color ? ivory to light blue to emerald green to steal gray. And it was getting closer?

She moved quickly, attempting to catch a better view from another angle.

?Ooof!?

The pain was only momentary. Something had obstructed her path, and, with her eyes still heavenward, she walked right into it.

Blinking back tears for her stubbed toe and wounded pride, she removed the spyglass from her eye and unrolled the parchment. It objected almost immediately, fluttering violently in her hand as the wind picked up.

But the seer was captivated by what was in front of her: a crystalline staircase, spiraling toward the sky.

Mister Howe?s list would not keep quiet. With more wind, it wrestled until it was free from her grip, landing dead center on the first of the steps, and the letters from each handwritten name began to peel away.

Losing lucidity, the seer crept forward, watching the event with a blend of awe and anticipation. As the letters fell from the list of names, they settled in order on the stairwell.

C-L-I-M-B

And then the parchment itself was lifted into the air again, carried upward, on a collision course with whatever lay ahead.

Viki started, slow at first in an attempt to keep her balance, jumping on tip toe when she thought she might catch the list again, but it was always just out of reach.

Onward and upward, the seer went, every now and then reading a new message just under her toes.

F-A-S-T-E-R

About six stories up, then seven, then eight, she stopped to catch her breath. The closer she came, the more she could make out of the object above: a crystalline structure, so like the stairwell that led to it, but in continual transition of color.

Finally, when the trees were just small specks of green, when night had overwhelmed all proper visibility of what was below, the girl sat, exhausted, but still so far from the source.

The air was thinning. Sleep whispered, lulling her into his arms.

She fell backward, her neck supported by the step above, her feet dangling dangerously over the side.

Viki didn?t notice when the stairs began to move, didn?t notice how they carried her further up and away, escalator-style.

A binary star is a stellar system consisting of two stars orbiting around their center of mass. For each star, the other is its companion star. Recent research suggests that a large percentage of stars are part of systems with at least two stars.
- Wikipedia

The Tower
Present Day

Viki took in a breath, then killed the space between them. She wanted to touch him. She wanted to know him. In hindsight it was obvious how blood called to blood.

?Little seer, how I have waited for you.? He took her in willingly, and like her lover Domikai, Taariq?s skin was almost too-warm, yet hers responded in turn. A soft white radiation began to creep along her outline.

?Grand-brother-star,? she spoke quickly, stringing her words in wild twos and threes, ?how-did-you-know-of-me?? In her pleading eyes one thing was evident: she wished to know her story.

?Once upon a time,? Taariq began, in soft, soothing tones, as one might speak to a child, ?there were twin stars, (binary as some astronomers might call them) a brother and sister pair. They lived in happiness for eons, looking in on the birth of new worlds and civilizations, watching the eventual fall of others.?

?But the sister watched one world too closely, and fell in love with its people,? said Taariq, curling his arms around Viki?s back, tracing the blades of her shoulders.

?So she fell,? and at that last realization, he squeezed his little niece, in part for comfort, in part for effect. ?She left her brother alone, in the vast nothing of space. He was cold and he wept for her, though he watched her. Oh, how he watched her! He watched her fall in love with a half-breed male of an outcast race. He watched her take human form, and a human name, and mix with the abominations, and bear fruit from the union.?

As Viki listened, it was like a fog had lifted, and for once clarity intervened before she could find herself lost down one chasm of reality or another.

?Twinning. It runs in your family. It is the result of our own birth, our binary status. Ones and zeros. I could explain it to you, but I was supposed to have the Orion clan over for dinner, and our time is short.? He took her by the shoulder and led her to the far right corner of the crystalline tower room.

?I took the boy when he was only seven. He had more.. cosmic essence.. than his twin sister, your mother.? As he spoke, he let his free hand waft through the air, and soon an opening appeared in the wall, large enough for a window, but oddly shaped, oval at one end, triangular at the other, like rows of sharp teeth.

?I took him because he was mine to take. Because she left me and I wanted someone. So I took him. Do you know where the term rising star comes from? Ahh, now you do. I named him Icarus. Do you know where the name comes from??

?Melting wings,? said the girl, who looked no more at him but at the window, and hid her disdain.

?Yes, melting wings,? his laughter was just as musical as her own, but heartier in nature. ?He was better off with me anyway. I knew what would happen to your mother. She died, you know, right after you were born ? you and your twin brother. Twinning. Always twins. A pity I couldn?t bring her to me as well, but then, you would?ve never been born.?

He directed her gaze to the window, and to the outcrop of crystal below. Space twisted and changed. Soon, they were looking at a field, and the peasant farmers who worked it.

?Like the mouse in the maze, they cannot see the path ahead, but the scientist directing the experiment knows the way out.? He sidestepped and looped his arms over her sides, bringing her to his chest. She knew he craved closeness, but couldn?t contemplate the depths of his hunger.

?We are the scientist, little seer, little star-to-be. We stand above, looking over, looking beyond what is there. We see what they do not because of our lofty positions. Your madness unlocked that door. The Ancient has given you the key to the understanding of it.?

He dipped down, placing his mouth at the top of her head, and spoke into her hair.

?I would keep you here had I no knowledge of what you would do to yourself as my prisoner. I would ask you to join me if I did not already know your answer.?

Viki cut his speech short. ?Already have a lover.? Her words were clipped, and she spoke nothing of the taboo of incest.

?Think of it, Victoria. You remind me so of your grandmother, Uttara. The same white light. I would keep you safe from those who would hurt you, those who are seeking you still.?

?Name-Like-Bells.? She couldn?t help the quiver of her lips as she spoke of Gabriel, and since Taariq knew much of what was to come, she didn?t try to hide from him.

?There?s a trick to angels,? said the star, withdrawing and closing the window until no evidence of its existence remained. ?Their pride, of course. They say we are the prouder race, we being stars, but they?re wrong. (After all, a star is a star is a star.)?

?Angels,? mused the seer, as if the irony finally penetrated.

?Yes, and now you must go, because you have a delivery to make.? He presented her with the list that started it all, complete with Mister Howe?s handwritten names. No letters were missing. No names misspelled.

?Bel?la dos,? said the girl, and to her joy, Taariq winced.

?Do come back to me child. I know Icarus is quite fond of you, and now, at last, you know the way.? With a sigh befitting a star, Taariq hung his head, and reality crumbled. Crystal shards broke from the walls, split from their foundation, and were pulled into the sky, Taariq and Icarus with them. The girl stood slack-jaw, watching the dark take over, surround her, until at last, she opened her eyes?

?And found herself at the top of a tree, just a mile from the clearing where she wandered. Her shoes hung loose on the tops of her toes, and she struggled to balance herself just beyond the canopy.

Fighting the natural urge to fall, she held on, until salvation came when it finally dawned on her: the Blood lapel pin. It was still attached to her clothing over her right breast, and she pushed it instinctively, dematerializing in front of a thousand creepy-crawly witnesses.

Her destination? Blood House Onyx.

walking down the streets at night
i see her stumbling through the rain
a skinny figure in the dark
her face a shade of grey
- Wolfsheim

Red Dragon Inn
Day One

Viki?s eyes caught sight of Lucky in the distance. Relief washed over her slowly, then shattered when she heard a foreign voice.

?You okay?? It was Erin?s voice from the road, in the light, soft and soothing. She drew closer as Viki revealed herself.

Aqua eyes took in Erin for an eon or so, then, as realization finally set in, the seer smiled. Her face was smeared with dirt. There were twigs wound into her hair.

?Oh, fine!?

?Good, good. Quite a racket out here, yeah?? The woman reached forward as if to grab a twig, but paused.

The seer, it seemed, was happy as a lark - the earliest bird with a worm still wriggling in its beak ? and she kept on grinning. No malice nor distress was evident on her little face, she shook out her hair, sending debris just about everywhere.

?I have stolen from him, again!? She confided in Erin, though proudly, in a rush of words that offered little intake of breath.

?Have you now?? Erin?s question came with an offered hand. ?Would you like an escort into the inn? I was going the other way, but I could backtrack a little for some good company.?

Good company, perhaps, but not necessarily clean. Grass stains and mud added to the swirl of color that made up the seer?s ensemble. The overcoat she wore to keep out the weather was looking like it had better days, though, her days were often stretched and long winded. Needless to say, it weathered that wind.

?Xas, well, maybe. I mean, if your feet are for other pathways, I will be fine.? In a whisper, she added, ?My lover will have to eat his eyeses.? Up and out of the brush, she moved to Erin, taking her hand.

?I think perhaps I am less than up for the walk at the moment.? Slowly, the pair moved back toward the Inn, and Erin seemed unphased by that bit about Viki?s lover. ?It is a good evening for walking,? said the lady to the seer.

?Xas, that's what the cobbles said before they warned me of the Snake.? Her grin betrayed nothing, and as she walked with Erin, their fingers laced, she shot a smile to Lucky and Alysia. The two were on the porch, speaking to one another in hushed tones.

?Your opponents are making more enemies than allies,? Alysia said to Lucky. ?It would be a relief to have an open confronta..? Her word?s ended sharply, just as Viki and Erin appeared.

?Viki seems no worse for wear,? Lucky observed, nodding to the girl.

No worse for wear indeed, save for the bit of forest she took as a souvenir. But tonight, the seer was pleased with herself, and the secrets she stole swirled in a space five inches above her head, circling like an invisible halo.

Alysia met them with half smiles, but no words.

Erin offered the same sort of pleasantries before turning back to Viki, prodding just a bit.

?The snake, you say??

?Xas and he would be slithering save for the feet he stole and the skin that covers it.? With a half skip up the steps, as if in continuity with her prior game of skipping stones, she landed at the top with a twirl that carried Erin along.

Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Lucky and Alysia mid-embrace.

?Goodnight Lady!? She snickered for the very visible kiss before tugging Erin inside.

Erin was laughing, even through her questions.

?Stole, you say??

Viki took a moment before she could reply. New sights, new sounds, new scenery. She crossed the threshold with easy familiarity, and as she spilled into the Inn with Erin in tow, those bright eyes flickered here, there, and everywhere, spotting recognizable faces and waving in turn.

?Stolen names. Stolen secrets.? She whispered and nodded like Erin had the faintest idea of what she was talking about, the continued to brush the dirt from her coat. ?I do naut like to wear the woods so much as to walk through it,? she murmured.

After a time, Erin excused herself, making for the direction Manon dubbed as ?the ladies? and left the seer at the door. She lingered there for a time, perhaps watching for signs of Howe and his companion.

When Erin returned, Viki was still propped against the doorframe, her face turned toward the outside. Winter licked her face in earnest, though she didn?t budge from her post. Erin's return went unrealized for the most part because of a new presence felt round the bend of brick and mortar. The spirits were restless tonight and did not include those lined up in bottles behind the bar. Bells and whistles were sounded from every height, and she pressed her cheek to the wood of the frame, frowning, slightly bewildered by what she heard.

Finally, Erin broke the silence. ?Is all allright??

Blinking back bits of Elsewhere, Viki turned her head, those pretty eyes full-blue on Erin.

?Oh, 'twas the wind, I s'pose,? she said, though she didn't sound at all convinced.

? The wind.? She repeated with a nod, and then, ?Would you like something warm, Viki? All that running around outside may have chilled you...?

?Warm?? Grateful for that suggestion, the seer turned from the threshold and shuffled further in, slipper-shoes tracking in pieces of the forest floor. ?Xas, maybe black-tar-cream-filled, you know.. It is..? She chattered, searching for the appropriate terminology. Her teeth sunk into her lower lip. The paint was ruined anyway. ?..in a goblet, with a saucer for a mate.?

?I know.? Already Erin was a master at Viki-speak and moved towards the bar, grabbing a cup and saucer, and proceeded to pour the coffee. ?Sugar too?? She called out.

?Mounds and mounds of it!? She chimed, her walk changing to a sprint, bar-bound. She caught the end of a barstool and climbed up, claiming the perch as her own.

?Bel'la dos, Erin. Amvel. Thank You!? Exclaimed in all three tongues.

?Don't mention it. You were a bit of a help, with that information on snakes.?

But Viki was busy with the cup and saucer, curling her fingers through the handle. ?Ooh, good!? She savored the bitter-sweetness of that drink, letting the warmth fill her and flow throughout. ?Mmpphh-better-than's-Tara's.?

?Don't let her hear you say that, she'll have me killed.? Giggling abound. Erin's input made her laugh out loud - symphonic sounds breaking the surface of her coffee, birthing bubbles in its wake.

?If that man, the snake you call him, took an interest in me, it would be safe to say it can be no good?? Erin asked when the laughter subsided.

?The cousin will naut kill you..? Viki promised. She replaced the cup and saucer on the counter, her eyes steering once more to the doorway, as if waiting on something, or someone. ?..she might tear your eyeses from your face so that you cannaut see the beans or bear the drink into the cup, and might take your fingers so you might naut be able to pour..? But when Erin asked yet again of Howe, her eyes widened, and shifting uncomfortably in her seat, she looked back at her coffee companion. Off-blues memorized her outline, captured her condition, sought out any unsaid motives for the gathering of such information.

?Naut good. Beware. False skin.? The seer warned her.

Smiling, but not saying anything on the mention of false skin, Erin returned to the topic of Tara. ?Your cousin can be dangerous. She had her eye on my teeth last week,? she said.

But alas! Without warning, the fine hairs at the back of her neck suddenly stood to attention, and though she continued to face Erin, she took note of the advancing presence at the corner of her eye.

Gabriel. Name-Like-Bells.

Sixth-Sense style, Viki placed her hands on the countertop, her fingers spread and pressed with all the weight she could muster.

She sat frozen beside a steaming coffee cup and a roaring hearth.

I dream of the winter in my heart turning to spring
While the ice gives way under my feet
And so I drown with the sun
-HIM

Red Dragon Inn
Two Days Later

( Author?s Note: I don?t usually put color in posts, except when to keep it obvious to the reader who is talking. Because this was such a long log, and I had to sort through so many inconsequential actions, and rearrange actions, I realized it demanded color. I hope I didn?t trample over anyone?s character in the process, and I tried to use colors that were representative of your character, or colors you yourself have used. But, god dammit, why does everyone like green so much? )

?Kitty!!!! You're back!? Belial?s voice breached the door.

?Back? Woman! I've been here for ages! I'm the bloody fricken Governor now. Where the hell have you been?? Kitty?s voice echoed in turn.

?Wait, a second?. Governor???!?

The seer walked with a bit more care this night, neither leaping nor humming in her approach toward the Inn. The familiar structure was a comfort. She stepped around the spotlights each streetlight threw her way and scrambled up the porch steps, her hands only hovering the rails as she made it to the landing, and at last, inside. Off-blues quickly settled on one face in particular.

That particular face was Obsidian?s. ?'ello, guvnor?. Shimmer!?

Slipper-shoes paved her path red, and the mock starlet strolled with purpose.

?Manon..? Singsong whisper as that term of endearment was given breath and sound.

Withdrawing a rolled parchment, the Ancient turned for Viki. ? 'ello, li'l Shimmer.?

?Hello Manon..? Her aqua eyes skipped over her head if only for a moment, settling on Belial, catching something too small to piece together - puzzles were coming in more and more parts, these days. ?So many things to say...?

?Ye can be sayin' wha' ye needs, Shimmer. To me, if'n ye wan'. I listen well.?

?Viki, sweets, how have you been?? Bel inquired, after a brief staring competition with Kitty, O Helston, the Governor.

Words in their stares, seer. Though you cannot hear them as well as us.

?I breathe,? answered the seer, with a lopsided grin that held back more words with paint and afterthoughts. The Governor blew her a kiss as she passed. She matched Kitty's kiss almost immediately, laughing, before Sid's reply rang through.

?Ooh. Xas. Things.? She twirled her hair with a single finger.

?Thin's, Shimmer?? As the Ancient posed the question, she crouched down, holding out a rolled parchment before the seer?s face.

?I 'ave a belated Yule gift jus' for ye, sweetlin'.?

?Yule. When the night eats up the day.. Crowns of green, patches of red, kissing-plants.? The girl grinned. Her eager little face was turned up to Sid.

Your winter hibernations keep you from holidays.

?Aye, the time when Spring can be felt to be on its way again. An', aye, this be for ye, sweet.?

Sid gave up the parchment to her, an offering wrapped in love no doubt. The seer?s shock was there, but not quite so evident as delight quickly swept across her pretty features - an open mouth, and open eyes, and greedy, yet careful fingers. She unrolled the paper slowly, smoothing it into place on the bar counter, then let out a short squeal.

?Jus' somethin' I worked up one night when I be thinkin' o' ye, sweet.?

?Painted-girl wearing star parts..? Viki murmured to the empty space at her other side, for Sid was quite close to her. Looking up with glee still stitched to that smile, she threw both limbs around the Ancient?s waist and hugged her tightly. The gift was just that: a lovely portrait of a girl looking quite like herself.

?Star parts, aye. Jus' like ye, Shimmer. All light and shiny,? said Sid, hugging the small seer close and smoothing a hand over her chaotic hair.

Meanwhile, the exchange between Belial and Kitty O Helston continued, and while it was well within of the seer?s range of hearing, the Ancient?s presence was always so overwhelming, Viki had little energy or focus for other people. Manon and Chylde were bound to one another by a kind of celestial cement.

?The Helstons have basically left Rhydin. Larook was only around long enough to lend me his shotgun.?

?My, my, but things have been changing in my absence...? A pause. ?Noooooo! Lars can't leave us!?

?He has. He might come for a visit, but he doesn't show any intention of ever returning for good. So I've been left alone in the House.?

?He will be back... He has to come back!?

?One can hope. In the meantime..?

?Well, Kitty, you know that if you ever need backup, I am here for you and the Helstons.?

?I appreciate that Bel. Although right now my Governor duties have me more stressed than taking care of the House.?

?Well, sweets... Happy to help you any way I can... as long as it's not as some form of lawman... Yes??

?I would never ask such a thing from you Bel. I know better.?

?I can hire you assassins should you have need of them...?

?I'm just glad you're back. I was truly worried.

?Ohhh... ah...Well... Yes, I'm back and don't plan on leaving again any time soon... Besides? Seems every time I leave? Something changes!?

Back to Viki and Sid. Though chaos ran rampant in her two-toned locks, there was something sacred, something akin to order, regarding the seer?s proximity to the Ancient. The thermostat was on the rise all around them.

?Ooh. The things.. Before I go losing myself here and there and everywhere...? Her little fingers fled Sid's sides and took up her Yule gift again, marveling at it once more before rolling it back into position and tucking it into one of the many crazy folds of her skirt.

?The Snakeskin has my scent. I am sorry, but I wanted to See his insides, and now he knows.? Her tone seemed to scream guilt and defiance all at once.

?Snakeskin?? Belial interjected with a start.

?Mmhmm.. you miss all the fun things.?

It's a war on war
There's a war on
You're gonna lose
You have to lose
You have to learn how to die
- Wilco

Red Dragon Inn
...continued...

Bel sighed, but soon Sid slid back into view, breaking the silence.

?Miss me??

The air was thick - saturated like Summer - and hot, though Viki showed no discomfort for the change in temperature, just a slight sparkle to the surface of her skin. And the fog was there too, clouding the color of her usually brilliant eyes. She was responsive, at least, for she looked at Sid when she inquired.

?Always.?

?Hell, yes. You need to ask Viki something for me, ok? Ask her when she saw Gabriel last.?

But Viki turned, and lifted herself onto an empty barstool, swinging legs to some distant rhythm of music - very distant. Think ages.

?An' ye be missed as well, sister.? Sid planted a kiss upon the seer?s head. ?Ye be warm, Shimmer. Name-like-Bells, sweetlin'? When be las' ye felt him??

?Name-Like-Bells.? Viki repeated at the mention of his name, her index finger tapping at her chin, matching the swing of her legs. ?The sun rose then set and rose all over. I like roses. And then maybe it set and did it one more time. I do naut know. I was picking roses on the way.?

?Day before yesterday. Possibly two days hence.? Sid nodded at bell, then turned to Viki with a grin and a shrug, as if brushing off her inability to correctly grasp time.

?Roses? Roses be pretty, sweetlin'. Where did ye find the roses??

?In the garden. Well it will be. I had a garden when the earth sizzled noon-day but all the flowers crawled back into the earth.? Happiness had stitched itself to her face again. She showed no cause for worry.

?Sid!? Kitty moved over to Sid and grabbed her wrist. ?We need to talk.?

?They be back soonest, Shimmer. Ye light be makin' them grow. Excuse me a mo'. Again.? Sid smiled to the pair of Blood-kin and nodded to the Governor. ?O' course, Kitty.?

?Ah? Ahhh...Ah?? Belial stuttered, looking between Viki and Sid, her shock apparent.

But the girl only smiled, and sang. ?Ah-Be-See-Dee-Ee-Eff-Geee. I learned that song from someone very small. It did naut make much sense.?

Bel only glanced her way, a minimal acknowledgement to the stream of a song she couldn?t place, then looked back to Sid and Kitty. ?Sure, you two ah... Go ahead and chat.? She shrugged. ?I'll keep Viki company.?

She turned to regard the seer in the softest of tones. ?Where are you staying currently, sweets? Are you safe? Perhaps you'd be better off coming back to Sid and Scottie's? Or Sun's and my house? We have plenty of room....?

?Two. He said there would be always two of us,? she said coolly, as if in passing. ?With the Lover, in Unhome. We are deep in thicket. Secret way.?

Bel nodded. ?Oh, yes, Domikai will keep you safe.... And ah, Names-Like-Bells? He can't find you there in the Unhome, can he??

The tilt of the seer?s head causes her mismatched locks to shift over a shoulder, revealing more of the inkings that were written into her not two seasons ago. She said nothing of what Domikai would think about her being somewhere else for safety. Mainly, it would cause him shame, and she was very sensitive to his feelings.

?Nau. The Lover has shadow-shield things. Glanhelmion, the guardian, sent them too, but then his and his clashed and there were shadows all over and I had to mop up the survivors and the Lover's won.?

This caused a chuckle in Bel. ?Then I suppose I'd best keep my watchers away...? She teased.

?Heh! Xas, they might be in pieces, especially if they had real eyes, and naut shadow-ones,? she said, and in a whisper, added, ? Lover eats them.?

?Hmm, eats them does he? Me? I am personally far too picky about what I munch on...?

?I like breads and chocolates and berries of straw, naut so much meat but then the Lover does so I eat it regardless.? There was a nose twitch, and a slight though longing look to the door.

?Sid will be back soon, I'm sure... Viki, sweets, stay away from Name-Like-Bells, yes? He's not a good... ah? Soul.?

?Angels,? the seer spoke softly, though her stare was harsh. ?Why the two-wars??

?Two...Wars...? Belial?s voice was broken with shock. ?Ah...?

?Above-and-below, then below-and-below. I hear them bellow-ing.?

?Well... ah? That would be more like three actually... Yes, they do like to howl, both Above and Below.?

?Three? Hmm. I did naut see the other.?

?Ok.? Belial looked as if she hadn?t an idea of what to say or how to say it.

?Hmm, I wonder what's taking Sid so long?? She threw a longing glance at the door, then, finally?

?Um, yes, well... the third... It's been... ah? Recent.?

?I would go to war with you, Belial,? she said simply, like she had when she solicited Jodiah to kill off that pesky Travanix. He never did get around to doing it. She meant to take the matter up with him, but she kept getting lost between the commons and the staircase.

?And, ah... Viki, sweets, I am most uncomfortable speaking about such things here...?

?All well. I do see.? Viki sat up, slowly, then eyed the Inn with suspicion - the actual Inn, mind you, the walls and the light fixtures and the support beams.

?Well, if I have to go to war Viki, I would want you on my side.?

?Ooh good. I used to go marching, leading men, and then he stuck me with wires and I sparkled for the first time..?

?Who stuck you, Viki??

?The Cousin has shortened his name and he hates it and he visited with her but the Cousin-In-Law threw him out. Travanix.? That bit of 'x' was held for a moment longer than it should've been. She clicked her tongue.

?Hmm, I don't know, Viki, sweets... Maybe we should stick him back, eh??

?Tried. Where is the Dark One? Have naut seen him in ages and ages. Not since the firefly came back, but we should naut tell her of the time in the ground.?

Belial nodded. ?As you like... I don't think we should mention it either...?

Affirmative. With a roll of her shoulders, the seer yawned, then stretched her limbs above her head.

Again, the lady nodded. ?Yes, sweets, I am getting tried myself... Do you want me to see you home, Viki??

?Ooh, xas. Well halfway? I cannaut bring you the full course..? With an awkward pose and coiling arms at her middle, she whispered, ?Secret place.?

?Yes, of course.. I shall take you as far as I am allowed then...?

The seer?s smile was genuine and warm, in part for the sharp increase in temperature she inflicted upon her surroundings, in part for, well, love and familial bonds. She slipped off her stool with slipper shoes making a near perfect landing, heals together, ballerina style.

I adore the despair in your eyes
I worship your lips once red as wine
And I crave for your scent sending shivers down my spine
I just love the way you're running out of life
-HIM

( Author's Note: Thanks to everyone involved so far. I'm having a blast! )

The Road
One day later

The patchwork skirt cried for color as she moved along ribbons of road, with cobble as far as aqua eyes could see - made for horses, no doubt, though metal beasts were sometimes seen rolling through these parts. Thankfully, the road was clear - just a speck of a girl with an overcoat flapping softly in the wind. She sang as she strolled - her voice a natural homing device.

She played superhero with her coat as a cape, fit her fingers over her eyes as a makeshift mask - thin knuckles and pale flesh framing her cheeks all upside-down and at odd angles. Sadly, the game ended just as it was begun. When she reached the porch of the Inn, she forgot herself again. Lantern light bore shadows into the timber. She climbed quickly, wanting to catch their names.

The Porch

?Follow-follow,? the seer whispered, and when she moved, so did they. Physics, my dear Watson. Not only was she an obstruction to the lantern light - she was a source as well. Shadows fell in step with her instructions, then scattered at her whim.

Elijah Thorpe, an older sort of fellow whom the seer was vaguely familiar, paused at her appearance and tipped his head. This sort of greeting was commonplace, though the shadows swirled in confusion.

?Evening, Ma'am,? he said, reaching for the door.

?He called me Ma'am!? Her exclamation rang with absolute amusement, then she tipped her own head in reply, upsetting the curls atop her two-toned head. She snapped at her side, urging the shadows to follow suit, but lacking three-dimensional space, they only wavered along the wall.

Elijah flashed a smile, kind, yet perplexed. Nonetheless, he held the door open for her. Etiquette wasn?t lost on that one.

?Ooh. Nau thank you. The performance is naut yet complete. You must come back when we are well-practiced and.. and...? Her words were lost midway, somewhere between thought and sound. Off-blues lifted and turned from Elijah to scour the street below.

Do you feel him?

Elijah only nodded, though his confusion was apparent, even in the smile he continuously wore. ?Yessum. I'll be sure to bring Shylah along to if you don't mind, Ma'am.?

Out Front

?I haven't seen you here before, babes.? A woman?s voice.

?Babes?? A low laugh followed another?s voice. Male, not man. ?Yes, well, one could say I am a new arrival.?

The Porch

?Name-Like-Bells,? the seer whispered unto the air. And what was that which came to light on her small face? A mix of intrigue, anger, and perhaps exhaustion. She sighed. The release of breath bore smoke into the air. She turned back to Elijah. ?Ooh, bring the Lady of the North. Tell her the Lover sends his best.?

?Yessum. I'll be right glad to pass the message along, Ma'am.? He nodded.

Viki mirrored his nod and stepped off to the side, catching the rail with skillful fingers. She leaned forward, reminiscing perhaps, waiting too. It was inevitable.

Out Front

?Little bird, little bird there you are.?

The Porch

?More like mouse,? the seer whispered back as Gabriel stepped into the light. Her little hand hovered over the lapel pin, ready, though not altogether willing, to give it a go if it was needed. She didn't like the idea of herself so physically scattered and reassembled. That was not how Tasha had explained it to her, but it's what it felt like, and when one's mind exists in parallels not yet conceivable by most persons, one tends to wish one's body was.. complete, and whole.

Out Front

?New is a relative terms, isn't it? You're not new... just... different.? The woman again. The one called Kairee. She was speaking with the angel as if all were well and ordinary. She even threw him a wink. It caused Gabriel to pause.

?Something on your mind, Babes?? Kariee raised her brows as she raised her question.

The Porch

Meanwhile, the seer waited. The shadows twisted and turned in the background, the backdrop of a play about to unfold. The literal star stood quite still, the porch her stage, the evening her audience, watching, ready.

Out Front

It was then that a stranger approached. Her clothes hung in bunches around her body. She moved closer to the trio, in boots caked with wet earth. ?Oi! Why? Why me?? She asked aloud, covering her face with her hands, so that she was nothing but boney knuckles and red hair.

The Porch

The seer?s eyes, not quite blue and not quite green, side-slipped to that stranger, something about her being not quite right. With a bird-like tilt of her two-toned head, she watched her, nearly forgetting Gabriel's presence. Nearly.

Out Front

Gabriel turned from Kairee and toward the newly arrived woman. With a cruel smirk, he gathered her close, his hands resting at the small of her back. They drew closer to the porch.

The Porch

?Little Bird, let me introduce you to someone very special,? he said, with all the benefit of mockery.

Then he pushed the woman forward. ?Introduce yourself,? he said coldly.

?Don?t do tha-at!? She whined.

Viki?s toes lifted in ballerina-formation with her hands still on the rail for support. It wasn't cheating - exactly. She turned with a pivot, becoming all the more entranced by the broken woman before Gabriel, like a child ready for a puppet-show.

?Signs of strings.. Kissed at you with open fingers, did he?? The seer?s slender limbs wrapped about one of the porch support beams. It wasn't much of a shield, but it would do.

The woman?s eyes were wide. They moved from the sight of the seer, back to Gabriel. She didn?t answer yet.

Gabriel took a lean against the railing of the porch steps, his charming smile painted on his face as he gazed at the seer.

?Why do you stink of Angels, little bird? Have you been playing with Sid again??

?Are you naut angel?? Viki?s question was worded quite carefully, each syllable placed in proper order, neither cold nor singsong. Then, her control shattered: ?I am so very very tired of you always at my shadow. I do naut like disappearing and reappearing in flight from you. What do you want??

The angel looked thrown by her directness. He paused for a moment, as if to gather his thoughts.

Finally: ?I want a taste Little Bird. I want to know what you are. I want to know what you know. I want to feast on your essence.?

Her slipper-shoes barely sounded as she withdrew, a hunter's grace, a prey's methodology - put more distance between yourself and danger. No longer clinging to the support beam, her arms fell into empty air, somewhat weakened by his reply. The Blood's pin seemed to grow all the more heavy, as if to say, I am here.. Do it now!

?Those to get so close lose pieces of themselves,? she warned him.

Suddenly, the very special woman spoke up. ?Where have you brought me no-o-ow!? Her question hung as a whine in the air, as if the sight of the strange girl with the fairy ears was far too much to handle.

Gabriel looked at his companion with narrowed eyes. ?Stop whining. Is that all you can do?!? He snapped.

The woman in turn looked back to the seer, as if to answer her prior question. ?And yes, he,? but her words were cut off by a choking fit. Gabriel ignored her distress.

The whimper from the woman was cause for a distraction, and indeed, the choking that followed. Viki?s displeasure was obvious. ?Angel-slaver you are,? she hissed

?I have many pieces to lose, Little Bird.?

Quicker than a human (or Drow, or starling, or whatever else claimed her bit of DNA) eye could follow, Gabriel reached out and snatched hold of Viki's wrist, reeling her in. The connection complicated things. The scenery swirled. Beads of sweat gathered at her forehead, and her flesh glimmered, even in the dark.

?Ptew!? The woman in the background spat at the ground near the angel?s feet, helpless to do much else.

The angel only stepped closer, leaning his head down to brush a light but lingering kiss to the top of her head.

?Precious, so precious. I lay claim on you, Little Bird. You will be mine.?

Her eyes rolled back, until blue was swallowed by white, and she half hung in the air, her legs threatening to buckle beneath her small weight. The touch of lips. The promise that poured through. She began to shake..

I think I've got a feeling I've lost inside
I think I'm gonna take me away and hide
I'm thinking of things that I just can't abide
- Oasis

The Porch

Erin spilled outside in seconds, taking in the scenery. Chryrie was still lingering on the porch, though Cassandra, Gabriel, and his servant were some distance off. Her eyes spiraled into Gabriel?s, alight with recognition from prior days.

Out Front

The red haired woman was dragging her feet, positioning herself between Gabriel and the rest. Her ties to him were darker than the seer dared to ask. Though, by the look on her face, the woman wasn?t enjoying herself.

The angel paused, meeting Erin's eyes with a sad lingering smile. ?Ah, they have polluted you as well. Perhaps I shall one day have my side known. Until then? May you have a grand evening. I know I will.?

He turned to look at Chryrie. ?You speak as if you know what I am, or who I am. Yet you know nothing. You say I wish her harm? When you have no idea what motivation I have. I don't have to justify myself to you. Who are you to dare judge me?! You attacked me remember? Was I attacking the seer? Think hard, but don't let it hurt you.?

It was then that Cassandra took up the final legs of her journey, finally advancing toward the lights of the Inn. But, the violet-haired lady moved once more close to Gabriel, so that she would smack her shoulder into him as she passed him by. He side-stepped, his superhuman speed being the culprit, and his servant received the brunt of the attack.

The Porch

?Your aura and energy speak volumes. And I am that which guards the balance.. and I protect the family of my family. I judge nothing. I only speak what I see,? Chryrie fumed.

?Polluted?? Erin stepped forward, lured by something only she could explain. ?Gabriel, name like bells...? She pieced together the seer?s puzzle, though with some difficulty. ?I like your name??

?Oh, by the way. The ah, ?polluted,? one, is mine too. Don't ever touch her without her express and uncoerced permission,? said Cassandra as she reached the porch.

Out Front

Gabriel dismissed much of this, focusing on Chryrie. ?Then you are blind. For what you think you see is not truth. Look harder.?

Then, with a spin on his heels, he beckoned for his lackey. ?Rachael, come.?

The red haired one, Rachel, followed, though quite reluctantly, simpering and sniffling all the way. ?Let me go-o. Ple-ease.?

But Gabriel said nothing, and then, stepped out sight, his servant in tow.

The Porch

?Stay away from the family of Belial,? Chryrie ordered, intent on getting one more warning in there.

?Bye now!? Cassandra called to Gabriel, mock brightness, even waving, before she turned for the door and slipped inside.

Erin turned to follow her, but called out once more to the angel in the road. ?Someday we should talk without the Seer around. I do prefer talking.?

?I just talked!? Cassandra exclaimed, and the pair pushed through the door.

Red Dragon Inn

The passage of time boded well for the seer, as every passing second seemed to nullify the effect of the intruder's connection. She even flashed Everett a lopsided smile - evidence of paint now gone from her lips. Then, quick laughter.

?Called me Mistress.. Xas, I would take water. Bel'la dos, amvel, thank you Ev-er-ett,? Thanks in three tongues, as was her habit.

With wrinkled brows and uneasy laughter, Everett posed his questions in careful tones. ?You are not hurt, are you Mistress??

Suddenly, Erin came in with a huff, chattering to Cassandra. Chryrie slipped in behind them. ?I know how you talk, cousin.?

?I wouldn't have knifed him without proper provocation..,? Cassandra said, flopping onto the couch between Everett and Viki. ?I was almost sure he'd turn around and try to swing at me after that landing..?

Viki laughed. The steady symphony of flowing sound threatened to bubble over the top of her. She titled to toward the floor. ?Why?? Question for Everett?s inquiry. The fog had rolled in. Her eyes had that glazed-over appeal. Bimbette at a social. Riddle-ramble. She flexed her toes, then pressed them into the cushions of the couch.

Everett flashed her an uneven smile, then looked to Cassandra. "Everyone is well, yes?"

?Quite well, thank you for asking Everett. And how about yourself?? Cassandra grinned, then glanced at Erin and added, ?It's a shame he wasn't. I think he would have been fun.?

?Perhaps not all people are looking for violence. I get the feeling he was avoiding it,? Erin replied, rounding the couch and kneeling next to Viki.

?Tell me, Seer, what does he want from you? Should we be keeping him away??

?Who??

?Name like Bells,? said Erin, using the seer?s name for him.

Viki?s eyes grew wide. She stole a glance at Everett, then looked back at Erin, terror crisscrossing the planes of her face. ?Kisses with his fingers and steals your death. Puppetmaster, that one. Angel-naut.?

?He touches you... and something happens...??

But exhaustion had washed over the seer, and her body welcomed it, reclining into the sofa, her back stretched, her arms lazy above her head. She pressed her cheek to the fabric, and murmured her reply. ?Fire in the sky.?

?Would you like me to get you a room, Viki?? Erin inquired.

Everett moved off to the side, turning for the bar. ?I am perplexed, but have no cause for complaint. I am going to put on some tea. Please pardon...?

? Well. I certainly won't decline tea. If you need any help bringing everything over, give me a hollar.? Cassandra waved as he withdrew.

?His eyes, an empty room,? the seer continued, with off-blues flickering skyward, as if passing through ceiling and support beams to steal at glance at the floor above. ?Too many thoughts up there. Number seven is full of mirrors.?

Erin stood, frowning. ?I don't understand. Would you like a bed.. upstairs. Or...?

?She would probably prefer to go to her.. unhome. But I doubt she could make it alone.? Chryrie advised.

?Naut upstairs. I would Unhome, if I were naut so...? She focused her attention on the lifting of her legs. ??jellied.? Her smile returned when Everett appeared with the tea, and she half turned to see if any of the Harpies were in attendance.

They aren?t here.

?If a bed is needed for the night, she may have mine. I can stay the night down here, writing,? Everett offered, filling a waterglass and offering it to the seer. Viki?s nose crinkled at the thought of borrowed beds, but she hid it beneath the waterglass, and took small sips.

?No need for that, Everett. We can get Viki her own room if necessary,? Cassandra remarked between sips of tea. ?Thank you for the tea. Have you had any interesting confrontations this evening??

?Any interesting conversations?? Everett?s question hung in the air, misheard, and thus, manufactured. ?Not as of yet, though it would be false to call the evening dull in any way.?

?Well, do tell what's kept this evening from being terribly dull?? Cassandra asked.

?There was this... incident, and I find myself in the middle of something I am quite certain I have never seen before. Also, that strange and frightening fellow was very tall,? Everett began.

?There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than could be dreamt of in your philosophy,? Cassandra quoted, and smiled kindly. ?My father is about that tall as well.?

?Can you take her, Chyr? Or should I take her in the carriage?? Erin interjected. ?I need to go home... before I scare the daylights out of my husband. He thinks I'm dead when I come home late??

?No.. Kitty says where she lives is a secret. I can get her home.. if she can focus.?

?Tension in threefold,? Viki rambled. What was that? Amusement? Eyes flashed between the pair of cousins and the male before she set the waterglass upon an end table and curled into the couch. Patchwork ball.

Chryrie crouched near Viki, patting her shoulder. ?You are in so many pieces, my dear. Too many. Can you see your unhome in your mind? Can you feel it around you if you try??

The girl sat near to sleep in the corner of the couch, half listening to Chryrie's words with strangely shaped ears. ?Mm.. Thicket. Skeletal building.?

Erin broke in, first addressing Everett. ?I am sory to jar your night so. It seems today was a bit more action oriented than you seem ready for. I need to leave... get home. I wish you all well,? she said, collecting her things before turning to Viki with a smile. ?Stay safe, Seer!?

?Have a good evening. Don't bash Sebastian into the ground just yet,? Cassandra called after her.

?Good night, Erin. Sleep you well, sweet friend.?

?I could take him in a fencing match.? Erin said with a broad smile, then pressed a chase kiss to Everett's shoulder as she left. ?Sleep well, yourself, Evvie. I promise you a calm tea and pleasant talk come morning.?

?Watch for the falling.. will do.? The seer?s sleepy singsong chased Erin out the door.

Chryrie paused as Erin departed, but quickly got back to business once she had Viki?s focus again. ?Perhaps not so much. Would you be in less pieces in the Blood House Onyx manor??

The pin!

?Oooh. The button. Xas.? Neither here nor there, it's no wonder Viki had forgotten her get-out-of-jail-free card. But she was near sick of using it, for Gabriel was tireless in his pursuit of her.

Chryrie chuckled. ?Yes, the button. You must remember it when you wish to leave here.? Then, she turned to Everett.

?Sorry.. I'm Chryrie. My sister is very protective of this girl.. and that makes me protective of her too.?

?It is my folly that I have not introduced myself, Mistress Chryrie. I am Everett Ogden, of Warwick. I am protective of all women, though a lousy protector.? He smiled.

?Some are not made for brutish activities. I myself prefer to stay in my books unless I'm otherwise needed,? Chryrie quipped.

Meanwhile, Viki?s fingertips charted a course for the Blood lapel pin. It continuously sat just above her right breast, lost in a wild pattern of multicolored fabrics.

?'Til the morrow, or the one after that, unless the moon destroys the sun in passing.? She rolled over, casting a grateful glance to the trio. ?But I am to Blood, now. Watch for Bells in my wake.?

Chryrie smiled. ?Rest, dear child. You deserve it.?

Viki smiled back. She was shaken, and now she stirred, even on the cusp of sleep. A small pressure on the pin, and that was that. She hated this part. Dematerializing was a bother. Sometimes she found patches of color in the wrong place. Nevertheless, where there was once warmth and radiance, there was now a void - just a simple imprint of her curling lounge remained, fixed in cushions and cloth.

Be careful what you say
You said that yesterday,
Tell me something new
It's always ocean blue
- Ocean Blue

?You read well,? she remarked as she mused, her chin abandoned as her hands fled to the many folds of her skirt, twisting the fabrics between skillful fingers. ?What??

?I assume you aren't human,? Evan said, oh-so-casually.

?I am naut one for tricks,? ensured the seer.

Now that is a lie.

?Human-in-parts.?

And just which part would that be? Your eyelashes?

?Your skin, young Viki. It sparked.?

He sees too much. Do not speak with him. We feel he is a cancer.

So many questions! Off-blues narrowed, filled to the brim with suspicion, yet the seer couldn't make sense of his own secrets - not yet. ?Oh, well. It-does-that.?

This close to the seer, Sid's own bits of skin visible seemed to reflect Viki's shine in luminescent glimmers. She moved from the bar to approach Kina, and speak with her.

?Ah.? Evan noted the narrowing of Viki's gaze perhaps, for he smiled wider, warmer. ?If I may be so bold as to ask if I may buy you a drink for being rude??

Bits of suspicion gave way to amusement. The girl flashed him a grin. Didn't he know that no one paid in Rhy'Din? ?Xas.. Would you take tea?? A twirl of two-toned hair, a sudden thought of Everett.

He is not like Everett. Do not make that mistake.

Viki ignored the voices for now. Her proximity to Sid was a continuous comfort, in light of Evan's questions. Between spaces of their exchange, she smiled.

?If the lady wants tea, then tea it is!? Evan exclaimed, sliding to his feet with a liquid grace, moving behind the bar.

?He called me lay-dee.? She chimed to the barstool beside her. It did nothing but offer up a bit of heat, reminisce of the last patron to perch there.

?Let me see.? He spoke as he rifled through tea cans. ?Strong and fitful, or light and flowery??

He feels you are both. We tend to agree. Little fragmented beacon.

?Ahhh, I am only familiar with the naming of one, Earl of Grey? I do naut think I would be turned off by a Duchess of Grey..? Her off-blues bounced into his cerulean ones. Legs picked up a faster, habitual swing, and slipper-shoes dangled along the tops of her toes. Her heels were free to catch a feel for the air while lying in wait for tea.

Holding her gaze briefly, he gave Viki a nod. ?Yes, I think I can handle that, milady.? Evan moved down the bar brushing past Sid to sit the pot of water on to boil.

Look at what care he takes to avoid touch.

Directing his words to Viki as he sauntered back towards her, he gathered up cup, saucer, sugar and cream. ?You know any good places to eat around town??

?My-lay-dee, this time..? She was whispering again, seemingly to herself. Small giggles rang like bells, and the sound set off a string of thoughts. Soon, Evan's motions were near ignored, and her gaze settled on the Blood lapel pin, still stuck in place to her dress - up top, and to the right.

You will yet use that again.

?Eat? Oh. There is the kitchen..? She gestured with a lift of her chin, then grinned in thanks - somewhat lopsided, though full of paint and flat teeth.

?Went to the market once, but to follow a man. It was alive with food-smells..? She shifted in her attentions, moving from Evan to the boiling water, and the stream of steam climbing to the ceiling.

His warm husky chuckle broke through her explanation of town before he set up the cup and saucer, placing the condiments within easy reach and putting a spoon to one side.: ?A kitchen? I can't cook! I am useless in a kitchen.?

He moved to the tea cans, hunting down the Earl Grey and dosing the teapot with several scoops. He shook his head while still speaking to the distracted seer. ?I was hoping more for a nearby restaurant. They have them here don't they??

?I do naut know..? She gave a look to the windows, as if the answer were pressed to the glass. ?Must??

Evan added the hot water to the tea mix, then poured it in place ? cup and saucer. ?There you go. Hot tea. Its about all I can cook. If you can call it cooking.? He set it out in front of her.

The cream was tasted with the tip of her finger, then lathered across the face of the spoon. Viki dipped the utensil dead-center of the cup, raining sugar along the rim, and to her delight, splattering the saucer as well. ?Amvel, Evan.? Two or three tounges tonight?

Under blue moon I saw you
So soon you'll take me
Up in your arms
Too late to beg you or cancel it
Though I know it must be the killing time
Unwillingly mine
-Echo and the Bunnymen

Red Dragon Inn
Several moments after meeting Evan.

Something comes seer. From the shadows he glides, moving with an unnatural quiet.

?I would give you Title, Manon..? Viki whispered, as some sadness stilled her to loosen her grip on the two, one Blood, the other something more. Patchwork finery shifted as she settled back into the barstool, eyes making for the hearth, dancing partners for the flames.

Leaning, Sid pressed the softness of her lips to top of Viki?s head, and smiled very softly. ?Mayhaps it be nae time.?

You are not a child. And you are not her child.

?Well.. tonight has been good. No one has tried to bite me, kill me or kidnap me yet. I would call that good.? Tasha nodded, her eyes bright, twinkling saucers.

Sid?s touch to silvery strands and two-tone locks faded, and the Trueblood pulled back and look to Tasha and Viki. ?Coke for Ana, an' mayhaps more'n tea for Shimmer??

?Ahh, ohh..? She glanced to the lonely teacup, now cooled to room temperature and offering up no steam at all. ?Xas, please.?

Tasha and Sid charted a path behind the bar

?Tea, or somethin' different??

Viki nodded to this, though her eyes remained on the hearth, her small voice focused in the same direction as she sounded her reply. ?I am well with tea,? she said quietly.

Something is closer seer. He senses you on the light breeze, sweet as candy, spicy and enticing as a curried dish.

Something was amiss, no doubt. The woodwork creaked and the fire crackled and the seer sat so very still, as if weighing her options, or formulating a battle plan. ?Metal arrows..? To herself, for sure.

?Eyes an' heart places, li'l Shimmer.? Sid?s voice was barely a breeze of sound as she passed, moving for the steaming pots and her small herb chest behind the bar.

But the fog rolled in, or more like rushed in, and Viki was a solitary, silent creature with an obnoxiously loud dress. Sid's advice went unnoticed. Catatonic, she watched the fire within.

?West London the bad part of town? I wouldn't know, as I imagine you wouldn't know where my town is either. The world is strange and new here.? A nearby patron chatted up his companion, and his words filtered through the crackle of the fireplace.

Meanwhile, Sid attended to the Earl Grey, chatting with Destre, who just so happened to make an appearance so late in the evening. ?To lose a spark like the Countess, sweet, I can be understandin' the male's moods, Des.?

?Strange and new, to lose a spark..? Viki echoed, doing her better impression of a cavern, and she barely even twitched on that barstool, even with the static white noise around to soothe her, the small crowd offering a bit of a comfort. You know, the old saying? Safety in numbers.

Tasha?s voice broke through the chaos. ?Is there a slaver convention in town??

The teacup chimed. Two o'clock and all was well. Viki finally turned, a swivel in her seat, her face for the bit of heated air, her fingers for the spoon. ?Slavers??

There are greater dangers now. But look. The Egyptian. He has one of your brood. You would know him through the trap of your past, though we cannot feed you those memories now.

The seer gave Anubis a rather blank stare. The lights were on but obviously no one was home. Off-blues revealed that much, clouded with secrecy.. and tea. She toyed with the spoon and saucer for a while, then spilled off the stool, drawn to the hearth.

We speak of a Watcher in the Night. His is a raptor, little bird.

A shiver raced down the length of her spine, but not for any chill the air had to offer. Viki?s nearness to the fire did little to sooth. Ahh, but the seer only had so much time to process this. Tasha noted her stare, and decided to distract her with an appropriate bag of skittles. Viki?s eyes flickered from flame to windowpane, then were drawn sidelong, as Tasha threw the bag of candy into the air. The girl caught it, characterized with eager hands and greedy fingers.

Your touch is electric. You are his Addiction. He will know you in more ways than one.

?Amvel, Tasha..? Viki?s thank-you was a singsong chime, and a new sample of a smile was alight on her face. She turned back to the fire again, and simultaneously to the window, struggling with the bag, fishing out its multicolored contents.::

?Like dresses..? She squeaked, overcome with delight, fully forgetful of ominous fears. She lounged nearto the flames, comfort in the form of a carpet on the floor. Sprawled, the seer turned to her side, eyes shifting between glass and glaze. The candy-coated wonders were lined up alongside - rainbow soldiers on a march.

In starlit nights I saw you
So cruelly you kissed me
Your lips a magic world
Your sky all hung with jewels
The killing moon
Will come too soon

Tasha?s turn to cut in: ?Put her down you winged freak!? She was moving forward, bristling with annoyance.

Enter That Blue Bastard. Mish?Cael came at them in a slow stroll over ice and snow and cobbles, his guns set into hip holsters, perfectly visible to those in proximity. His black eyes took to the scene like professional appraisers, alight with recognition for some of the faces in his path, but wary all the same.

?My my.? He choked down an ill-timed bout of coughing. A cigarette's hot-red end dwindled from between two knuckles.

?An' lookee all this...? With the thinnest of smiles, he looked to Gabriel and Viki, to Sid and Tasha.

?Down, down, down,? whispered the girl in the angel?s arms, pressing a plea to the side of his face, still all fairy bells and lilting singsong, despite her focus to flee.

Sid?s slow steps circled in, tasting the scent that clung to him. She threw a glace to Mish'Cael, but her full attentions were on Gabriel. ?Well, well, well... Methinks this be development a sister o' mine needs hear o', an' soonest.?

Gabriel tucked Viki close, leaning to press a kiss to her forehead. It was such odd behavior, but with hidden point and purpose.

Every time your flesh touches, he feels more alive, and his energy throbs and thickens with fresh vigor?

?Take et he en't her mate,? said Mish?Cael, with eyes crawling to Sid, and then to Gabriel, perhaps sizing up the best spots to shoot him at.

?Nae.? Sid spoke to Mish, keeping her distance. ?An' he dun kill easily, I be thinkin'.?

?I en't kill easy, neither,? he said in reply.

On that note, Gabriel lowered Viki to the ground and released her once she had gotten her footing. His attention shifted between the other two women. ?Good evening, Mannon, Anastashia, isn't it? Raphael's halfling daughter.?

Meanwhile, the seer turned rag doll spied Mish'Cael from over a celestial shoulder. She made a motion to speak, but sound was the first to go, but from the shape of her lips, it could've been but one phrase.. Then, it got a bit dark, and off-blues succumbed to black space.

Metal arrows.

Mish?Cael?s cruel and terrible smile curled into view. ?'Sides. En't need ta kill 'im... Jes' put 'im on a knee fer now.?

?Geesh. I come in peace. Or haven't you heard, Manon? I am human. Just like,? he started, before making a face, rolling his eyes. ?Well, obviously not you.? He caught Viki once more, when she started to slip, when the dark claimed her vision. He actually looked concerned.

Tasha scowled darkly at the angel speaking her name and hopped down from the top step, landing with bracing legs before surging forward moving up beside Sid. ?Let.... her.... go,? she demanded.

Mish?Cael echoed the notion. ?Best set'er on tha groun' an' let me have 'er, doncha think.?

He would have you more ways than one, too.

The gunslinger dropped the cigarette to the ground and snuffed it out with a sizzle, underneath the bare flesh of his heel. No shoes. Mish?Cael did not wear shoes.

?Ye be many thin's, Gabriel, but human be nae one o' them. Nae matter wha' be happenin' to ye. An', though I smell the Fall, I canna tell wha' lingers. Howe'er, this be gran' news...? Sid smiled cruelly. ?I be dyin' to tell someone,? she said, stepping forward.

But Gabriel wasn?t paying them any attention. ?Seer? Seer? Are you alright?? As pressure surmounted by the other three, he kept his eyes on Viki.

The seer was limp, like driftwood, only much softer, and cosmically swept. She gurgled, and though her eyelids twitched, they remain closed.

Mish?Cael took a step forward. Gabriel looked panicked.

?Help her! You care for her too. Help her!? The angel pleaded.

Too, he says, too.

?Aye, Mish'Cael, is it?? Sid was grinning like a fiend, ignoring Gabriel?s plea. ?Take out a knee cap.?

?Kin do.?

?Ye 'ave the hands for it, methinks. Steady, accurate,? she affirmed.

But the constant connection between angel and girl had taken its toll on the seer. The world was in ripples, though their voices were distant, but heard.

The gunslinger?s Peacemaker was out so quick it seemed a bullet train of metal. The hammer cocked sickeningly against a calloused thumb, at his hip and steady as concrete. His left eye looked so brilliant and no longer black at all. It was a shiny, glistening gold. Hot against the skin of his cheek, it illuminated the entire half of his face.

?You?re draining her!? Tasha exclaimed with a hiss, falling as she started to dart forward, moving past Sid in a sudden effort to get to Viki.

But Sid was way ahead of her. Blurring with preternatural speed, she moved to grab for the Seer out of Gabriel's hands.

Alas, before they could get to her, Gabriel swirled. He picked the girl up, tucked her close and jumped upwards, landing on the roof. The seer dangled in his arms, murmuring bits of nonsense without the help of sound, though every attempt was a plea, a means to reason.

Mish?Cael?s smile was wide, so wide. He shot up of his head and dropped to a knee, perhaps debating on where to fire. Up and the man's shoulder was in his sights. There was an instant thunder-crack of shot. The silver bullet raced out of the barrel and exploded into flesh, but too soon. Gabriel had leapt toward the roof, and Mish?Cael?s bullet grazed not his shoulder but his knee.

?Tasha be right, ye frellin' fool!? Sid shouted as she followed the pair, swift and sure, upwards without a thought. Toes to branches and rails, and finally she found the roof. ?Ye canna touch them all... open!?

?Try an' en't git in tha way'a a shot, Sid,? Mish?Cael grunted from below.

Free falling? Perhaps.. Taint of blood in the air. Viki swooned, sure to slip from the angel's grip if the bullet sang truth.

The gunslinger moved inside with a quickness, up the stairs, bare feet slapping hard on the wooden steps and he burst through the first room on the next floor. A shriek from a whore and her john, and he lurched the window open.

Gabriel, from his place on the roof, caught what Tasha said. He glared at Sid. ?You think I want to hurt her?! You know nothing!?

Mish?Cael stepped out and onto the roof, his head swiveling around and the golden eye out and searching. He headed in their direction, both sizzling, shining boomdowns out and he got within a good ten feet of Gabriel. ?Put 'er down or y'kin git another in yer knee.?

Sid continued, attempting reason. ?Ye wan' he safe?? The Ancient barely stuck to the tiles, like wind across water her movements danced over the roof keeping Gabriel and the seer in front of her, at arm's length.

The seer was white on white, that ancient glow, a trail of stardust. She no longer looked tangible - just a light in the night, like so many more, but fashioned from blood and sweat and bone.

Under blue moon I saw you
So soon you'll take me
Up in your arms
Too late to beg you or cancel it
Though I know it must be the killing time
Unwillingly mine

Everett Ogden's Room

Sid held the seer in check, a near weightless bundle as she walked through the hall, muttering all the way to Room Twenty. ?Frellin' bastige. Sometimes fathers can seem nae so nice.? There were shadows in glamoured blue eyes as she knocked on the door of the room. Everett Ogden?s room.

?Yeah, I would agree there. Your staying with Viki right Sid?? Tasha asked as she brought up the middle. Mish?Cael of course was trailing the three, with bare feet plodding along.

?Aye, I be stayin'. Sent word to Scottie a'ready. Ye headin' back to where, sweet??

?Oh Shadowhold keep. Staying with Luc and family still, as I ain't been sent word to change that. Figure for now that's where Da wants me.?

Within Room Twenty, a voice called out. ?I am coming...? It was loud enough to be heard through the door.

The youth would then open the door, blinking at the light that poured over his scrawny, only half dressed form. He had begun to recover from the sick months at sea, but Everett Ogden was still a farce of a man beside the typical RhyDinian specimen of masculinity. It took him a beat when he looked at those assembled, but those terribly warm brown eyes came to rest on the colorful friend in the arms of a stranger. Brows arched, and a careful whisper followed. "Gabriel?" He was honestly horrified. He hated to see Viki like that.

Sid only nodded to Tasha, then glanced to youth at the door. ?Ye be... Ev-er-ette? This mus' be why I felt need to bring her here.?

Mish?Cael leaned against the far wall. His bony, sinew-curled arms crossed over one another - only the necessary muscle to lift and fire all of the guns in his massive collection, not a stitch more. One foot up was propped against the wall underneath him. His inkwell eyes watched Everett, standing in the doorway, an owlish blink and all of the heartfelt candor that Mish didn't understand any longer.

?I am, I am...Godsteeth, come in.? He stood aside, holding the door open. Concern woke him fully, made his feet feel cold on the floor boards. His bed was half made, and he was happy to forfeit it to the gypsy- belled creature. No questions asked, though hundreds swam in that earnest gaze.

?Methinks she be wantin' to rest here. She be fine, jus' needs rest.? Sid spoke as she carried Viki over to the bed. Once past the door frame she glanced back to Tasha.

Mish?Cael allowed for a slow kick off of the wall, ambling after Sid, who held Viki, into the room. His body-language suggested that it was not up for discussion about his staying in the room the night.

Tasha?s silvery violet eyes widened slightly as she caught a feeling about the room but slipped into step behind Mish and just wandered in for a moment, making sure Viki was ensconced safely.

The room felt safe. Still, with what follows and ever-plagues her and hers, Sid could never be sure. Poor Everett, he was going to be having at least three for company tonight. Laying Viki down to the half-made bed, she grinned over at Tasha. ?Familiar touch, aye??

Tasha nodded slowly, perhaps relieved that Viki had such a place to hide when needed and nearby. ?It does.? She beamed at Sid.

Mish ducked to fit his head inside the doorjamb. He was just, just, just too tall for all of these doorways. Just by a smidgen. The tarpit eyes racing over every inch of the room. He looked at the window and whatever else made up Everett?s room.

?Mish'Cael.? Everett greeted the man by name, and a nod between them. They had a common interest, and Everett would not think to have him leave. No matter that something in the fierce eyes of the fellow terrified that bookish gent. A cautious peer into the hallway preceded his gentle closing of the door. The room was modest, a double bed, but between the armchair in the corner, the seat at the writing desk, and the two chairs at the very small table, there were places to sit. To be.

?Everett'a Warwick.? Mish offered a faint, minute smile to the man.

?I be Sid,? the Ancient interjected, and perhaps more gruffly than she planned as Viki was covered. The Trueblood rose, pinning the male with cunning stare. ?Ye 'ave comp'ny for the night, Ev-ver-ette.?

Mish pulled out a chair equidistant from the window and door. He drug into the corner and he plopped into it unceremoniously.

Tasha continued with the introductions. ?I'm Tasha. Viki's family to us and all. But, I'm not staying. Have to head back before Luc sends out a search party. He's taking his duties as guardian a bit over board but well.? She shrugged and chuckled quietly.

?Er... Welcome.? Everett scratched the back of his head, lowering his eyes. He had never been the alpha wolf in the pack. It was a point of self-consciousness at moments like these. Still, the man who had been rousted from a dead sleep recovered admirably well, a little smile quirking his lips. ?Do make yourselves at home.? He moved to his closet, pulled a rumpled shirt from the laundry basket there, and slipped it over his bare chest, fastening the buttons as he nodded to the ladies.

?Sid, Tasha... it is good to meet friends of Viki.? His gaze slipped again to the sweet lady in his bed, and he wondered that anyone would think to harm her. It was madness, indeed.

Sid gave a glance to Mish as she pulled out one of the chairs from the small table and set it next to the bed near Viki?s head, folding her long, lank frame into it. Crossing legs and leaning against the headboard with one arm, she threw a grin as Tasha apologized for her, for them. She'd have to study this "thinking of others" thing better.

The gunslinger cleared his throat, a low, hard sound, like something sticking and clawing and refusing to leave. He undid the buckle of the hip-holsters, and draped it over a thigh. The first cold, shimmering .45 out and with a loud click and whirr, out came the chambers, refilling them slowly, methodically from a little section of the holster's leather. Equally-shiny silver bullets slipped into their beds for the night.

?I will be back around tomorrow to check up on Viki. Um, thanks for letting her, um them, you know stay.? Tasha stammered, realizing that the man had just taken in more guests then the room allowed and was trying to ease a little.

?Uh, aye... Than' ye.? Sid added.

The gratitude is accepted even as it is dismissed with a gentle wave. ?I should want no less for her.? Everett peeled his gaze away and moved towards his writing desk, his own corner, turning the chair around so that he might look on his companions for the night.

?Nice to have met you Ev-er-ette. Um, you also Mish.? Tasha backed up towards the door quietly, worried Luc would send out his men to find her, as he had done it before already.

The gunslinger was busy at work. With another whirr and click, the chambers went back and he set the gun aside for now. The other finished in equal time and he slipped them both into comfortable hands. The holster draped over a level surface nearby, now. He nodded to Tasha. ?Ayup. Well met.?

Sid cut in before Tasha could leave. ?Ye be careful headin' back, Ana. I dun know wha' tha' one be capable o', wha' he be hidin' up his sleeves. An' there be nae jus' him, as ye know. Give me regards to Luc an' Fio. Dun forget to tell o' this new development.?

?Always careful these days. Got plenty enough to keep me on my toes.? With an impish grin both amused and wry at the same time, Tasha nodded, brushing hair from her eyes. ?I will let them know and will certain inform them about what happened tonight.?

Mish shifted in the chair, getting comfortable. The guns hung loose in his hands, gentle now. He was dozing with an eye up, waiting for the chance to snuff out a life or five. Leaning back in the chair, he threw a look to Sid, studying her for a long time without words.

Sid?s glamoured eyes moved between Tasha and Viki. Her long fingers of strangely elegant design dusting over the seer's brow, trailing stardust pathways from flesh to flesh contact. Her free hand rose, tucking softly chiming elflocks behind the large point of her left ear, strange symbol beneath that one visible as the 'locks shifted.

?Night all.? Tasha called over a shoulder and then slipped out into the hall, closing the door quietly behind her before heading for the stairs, the sound of her docks hitting them as she bounced her way down to the inn below.

?Be well, sweet.? Sid echoed softly.

And no one knows
And no one sees us
Because they're drinking themselves senseless
And I'm writhing
And I'm writhing
And I'm writhing in the snakepit
- The Cure

Red Dragon Inn

Two snakes spoke at the bar.

?Hmmm... Manon's little pet.?

?No more fun to be had at their expense tonight. The Barrister is holding tight to his cool. As for the Mannon's pet? Her head is the only gift I will accept.?

?She sparks. Perhaps she can be of use??

?No. No use. She's unpredictable. She sees too much. Her head is all we want left of her.?

?As you wish, old man. I shall follow your lead on this, then.?

?Had you suffered at her hands, you'd be agreeing with me, partner. She's a risk we don't need to take.?

?She is nothing, then, partner. No more shall be considered but your most wise opinion on the matter.?