A Princess, a Noblewoman, and a Captain's Story

Fuck. Late. Soooo… fucking late. Sapphire groaned. Her head was still hurting from Friday night, and if she had to be perfectly honest, she could probably dig herself a hole and be content just staying there all day and night. She and Simone had been out. It had ended up rather crazy like it often did with the two oldest sisters. Syd was a more quiet kind, that was for sure. She would’ve probably sunk into a couch trying to look invisible during the whole ordeal. Saph smiled, for a moment forgetting that she was in a hurry. She was late. As the words slithered through her clouded mind, Sapphire snapped her fingers, exclaiming a frustrated "Damn it!"

And soon she was running through her apartment, picking out her outfit, her long legs carrying her speedily around the place. Clothes were quickly thrown on and as such Sapphire was soon in her bathroom. There, she donned a light make up of mascara and brown eyeshadow, along with just a little splash of gloss to her lips. Her hair was brushed through loosely before she lifted it into a messy but fashionable bun, leaving a few strands of blonde hair to frame her pretty features. She then put on a long gold necklace and a pair of matching earrings before checking the time on her phone once more. She had... about minus two minutes to get to the cafe.

Well, her sisters knew her. She shrugged it off and pushed her feet into the brown boots she loved, and grabbed her bag on the way out, already on her way down the stairs when she remembered she'd completely forgotten to lock her door. Sapphire let out a string of curses under her breath and ran back up, quickly showing in the key to lock the door. Only once that was done did she run back down, speedwalking to the location. It was no more than a ten minute walk from her place, so she didn't have far, but seeing as she was late when she left, she ended up arriving fifteen minutes after the agreed time anyway. Spotting her sisters by a table she made her way over, plopping her petite form into one of the chairs on a relieved sigh. "I'm late, I know. Don't shoot me. Hangovers are a bitch. I blame Simone." She shot her older sister a grin at that. Especially since they all knew Saph was more than able to get herself drunk without any help.



The three sisters spent the evening eating, talking and joking about like they usually did, easily falling into that same, familiar pattern, and Sapphire loved it. She missed her sisters when she wasn't with them. They were exceptionally tight, all of them, and though she didn't tell them everything (she didn't do that with anyone), they were definitely her best friends. They always would be. Sapphire's gaze vigilantly searched her surroundings once in a while, subconsciously looking for someone perhaps, but she herself did not notice the actual frequency. Until she spotted... something. Her gaze seemed to brush the outlines of a figure. Of pale, long hair and a tall, lean body. She blinked a couple of times and it was gone... like a ghost almost.

Maybe she hadn't seen anything? But it seemed familiar, somehow. Like something she'd seen before. Like... like Sabine. She shook her head almost as an unwilling reaction, a chill running down her spine. There were things she did not like to admit to, there were things she did not even want to recognize herself. He was one of them. The mysterious male who she'd met just about two years ago. He wasn't... classically handsome, but there was something about the way he held himself. The power in his body, the intensity and intelligence his eyes had seemed to contain. Like he'd lived for thousands of years and seen it all. They were wise eyes, and his countenance had been that of a powerful business man. Someone secure and powerful in position.

Even his voice had gotten to her. The blonde had never tried that before. She'd never had a man affect her that way. There'd just been... something there. Strangely so, because she really didn't particularly like the guy. In fact, he pissed her off like no one else could. He was just so... arrogantly infuriating! And so stubborn. Not that Sapphire really had the right to complain about others being stubborn, all things considered, but he'd.... been a challenge. Maybe that was what had her wanting more of him. The thrill of a challenge. Sapphire was a clever girls and her words had a tendency to cut people much like a knife, but this man had thrown every little jab right back in her face.

Which was also new. She was used to dominating. There, she'd admitted it. She was a dominant. She was always the powerful one in a relationship. Not because she was physically strong or powerful, but because she was just that type. Well, that, and she simply had always cared less. She wasn't the type to fall head over heels, men didn't get to play with her emotions that way. Not as of yet. She was a strong girl and she'd always been picky about who she truly let into her heart, so she supposed it bothered her a little that even after two years... she still had Sabine's handkerchief and jacket... and she still thought about him every once in a while. Today was one of those times. And now she was even imagining things. What was happening to her?

Dragging herself out of her little reverie, she turned to look at her sisters, only catching half of a sentence, so trying to come back into the conversation she asked ”wait… what? Who?”

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Alexander’s green, piercing eyes were scanning the dancefloor populated by a large variety of scantily dressed human females and males who were no more than boys. Eagerly they did that… grinding thing humans seemed to have taken to for some reason. Alexander found it tasteless. It demanded no skill, and to him it appeared clothed, public foreplay. Now, he was not the kind to discourage public affections, but there were limits and these… humpings and grindings… well, it would be a shame to call them any form of dance, but perhaps movements would suffice, made him wonder why they would ever even claim to be above animals.

He casually swirled the amber liquid in his glass, waiting for something, although he had no clue what. Really, no clue at all… except maybe he sort of did recognize that one human in particular was in his hopes. He had to find her. He could no longer accept this constant hunger, nor could he ignore the tantalizing memory that was the taste of her blood. At times he could even taste it on his tongue. Vaguely, but it was enough to rouse a furious hunger. Tonight was no exception. This place, the place in which they had met, called those memories fourth in vivid images. So the vampire king was indeed feeling the need to grab a snack, but he was not too fond of leaving this spot. Not that he couldn’t have it back from anyone who took over, because that would be easy enough, but what if she showed up and then left again while he was out?

No, it simply would not do. So he sat, quietly, eyes intense, leaned back against the cushions of the sofa he was in. It was situated a little off to the side, but not entirely in shadows. After all, he wanted her to be able to see him as soon as she entered, if she did. He had left things on good terms two years ago. Of course he’d then left never to be heard from again, but that was beside the point. He had taken her home after some idiotic subject had thought to make a meal of her. Her home naturally. A move he had reprimanded himself for many times over the last two years. He should have just taken her home to his own mansion. He would have had her blood available at all times if he’d thought to do so. But no, he had been too busy leaving

Hmm, but his plans tonight sought to fix that little issue. He was not leaving this time, and neither was she. He wasn’t going to let go of her again. Not if it meant the memory of her blood would taunt him for the rest of his days, which to him could be a very, very long time. Alexander was an exceptionally patient man, but there were limits. Even with Alanya he could snap. But then, his daughter was a handful. He was more than simply aware of that. He also knew of her current infatuation with the Captain and he didn’t particularly like it.

Not because he didn’t like Alanya with a man, because honestly he’d gotten used to that centuries ago, but Daniel Bowman was no upstanding male, and if his daughter was not careful, Alexander feared she would fall prey to the man’s games. Which would undeniably result in Alexander losing his calm, and then he would have to choose a new captain. He was snapped out of this line of thought when the scent of a much too strong (and cheap) perfume decided to flood his senses. He looked up to find a blond in a much too tight dress looking him up and down. Alexander raised an eyebrow. “Can I help you?” He asked coolly, not the least bit interested. He was here for one reason and one reason alone. He would not be strayed from this path. His tone apparently had the desired effect because she looked rather insulted, but she soon disregarded that and smiled something Alexander assumed was supposed to be seductive.

“Actually, sweetpea,” she began, a Texas drawl to her voice, “I was going to ask you the same thing.” All the king did was raise an eyebrow at her and take a sip of his drink, before his gaze made its way back in the direction of the door. After a while of her pining for his attention, she finally huffed something about him being an arrogant asshole and left. He promptly ignored her. She was beneath his notice really.

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”Out?” The voice rang out, smooth, yet with so much deadly promise. The person speaking did sound pleased, nor did she sound very patient. There was no uttered threat, no outright hostility, yet the servant it was directed at, took half a step back before replying weakly “I believe so, your majesty.” Alanya raised a single eyebrow – a habit she had inherited from her father – and tapped her lower lip thoughtfully with the tip of her index finger, her cream-colour painted nail perfectly long and shaped to perfection soon resting upon that lip as her finger stilled. “Am I to assume you are unaware of the whereabouts of your king?” She inquired, the question leading, like the answer to it would decide the very fate of this servant.

Really Alanya had no actual desire to know where her father was. Or, rather, it would not matter to her. She couldn’t go anywhere just yet anyway. Her father was a lot older, so the remaining few rays of sunshine didn’t bother him at all. Her, however… oh, she was a lot more sensitive. Not even 700 years of age, Alanya had a lot of aging to do before she could walk in the evening sun like the King. So her point here might be redundant, except… it wasn’t. She was entertaining herself, you see; toying with the servant. She was a newly changed one and had only lived for a couple of decades. Easy prey, but ah, the things you did when you were bored. The servant before her seemed to almost sink a lump of fear and Alanya smiled sweetly, kindly even, but her eyes were anything but.

“I… I,” she began, but when Alanya merely look at her, she lowered her gaze to the floor and kept her head down. The princess sighed in frustration, turning her eyes upwards for a second before walking forwards, placing a slightly bent index finger under the girl’s chin. She guided the servant’s face back up, amber eyes boring into those of her current victim. “Answer me,” she then ordered, again ever so controlled, and kind. The servant drew in a deep breath, trembling slightly. “Yes, your majesty,” she then stuttered out. Alanya smiled at her, letting go instantly. “Hmm,” she only added as she turned and walked away. That servant would be walking on nails for the next very long time, wondering what that “hmm” meant for her, and that was exactly Alanya’s intentions. That alone.

It wasn’t like she expected her servants to know where her father went; he wasn’t really the type to tell. But that was the end of it. It seemed this would be a rather tedious night. She sighed theatrically, her golden heels carrying her methodically through the great mansion her father had chosen to stay in during this time on earth. She had been in it many, many times before, so she knew her way about. As such, it didn’t take her long to reach a much more interesting room… because it held a much more interesting game. A mischievous, almost mysterious smile played at her lips as she elegantly strode across the wooden floors to reach the Captain of the Vampire King’s Guard. Daniel Bowman. Or, as she knew him; Danny.

The fact that he was writing a letter, acting all the victim of lost love, didn’t bother her. Hell, she didn’t really know why he bothered putting on a show when he was alone anyway, because lord knew, he had no actual feelings for that… oh, who was it at the moment? Alanya wasn’t entirely sure, and she didn’t really care much. And so, she merely walked straight over and easily, casual, although it was nothing much, sat herself on his lap, legs crossed sophisticatedly. Her movement itself was silky and graceful, since her dress was not quite the formal gowns she wore back home, and she gently placed a hand on his chest, smiling up at him with a mischievous, playful glint in her eyes. “Poor, poor little Danny,” she then teased, the hand on his chest dancing up to rest on the side of his neck, “forget something back home, did you?”

Daniel Bowman

Resting his chin on two fingers, Daniel contemplated the paper in front of him. He'd just began working a letter, the terribly dull business it was. His script, which was usually spiky and disinterested, had morphed into something elegant with a bit of patience, but it was tedious to craft the careful words. In the moment it was much easier to coo sweet nothings, but on paper, Evelyn would have time to look everything over more than once so he had to structure it as best he possibly could. Perfectly. Letter writing was a mandatory part of romance, he'd be cheating if he didn't keep up correspondence with the doe. He'd wished to bring her along, but she was so very young, and her father had not allowed her to make her way to this world. Such a shame. But it meant he could interest himself in a finer array of things, since he didn't have to cater to her. She would definitely follow him around and it would become tiresome quickly. He needed some time to...himself.

Just as he formed that thought, he noticed another presence enter the room. he did not look up, he could tell who it was, and he shifted as she sat down on his lap, releasing his pen and moving his hand to her knee as she settled down. Her could feel her hand against his chest as his silvery eyes shifted to her face, my didn't she look mischevious? A fain grin curved his features as he examined her face. Well, it wasn't every day that a lovely princess just dropped into a man's lap, now was it? Especially not such a delightful jewel as this one. Even if she obviously wasn't taken with him the way most women were, a terrible shame, he enjoyed her most delicious attentions. She was a curious soul, and he delighted in his attempts to unravel her. It was terribly fun.

"I suppose I have," He said as her fingers brushed his neck and her hand settled there, " My sweet Eve could not accompany me." His voice was only mildly sorrowful, he was too busy enjoying the view. No one had ever accused Daniel of not fully enjoying a perfectly formed woman, and they couldn't start now. "But I suppose it leaves me more time for work, doesn't it, my Princess?" His grin quirked up on one side, and he lost the sorrowful act. It was very difficult to seem sad when there was an engaging woman on his lap, especially one with such a look in her dark-lashed eyes.

He did not speak for a moment, lifting the hand that wasn't situated on her leg up to brush across her cheekbone and capture a lock of hair. He drew it behind her ear with the utmost care, an innocent gesture, of course, before looking to her eyes again. "But what is the lovely princess doing on my lap this evening? Shouldn't you be out ravishing the town, heart?" His hand trailed down the side of her neck briefly before he rested it at her back, almost as if to keep her from falling, thought that obviously wasn't the case. He affected the mournful tone again for a brief moment as he continued, "I'll never finish my letter this way, and poor Eve will wonder what became of her lover." The grin never left his face, though his words truly did sound as if he were a love torn soldier longing for his woman back on the home front.
Emotions were too easy to affect, it was not more than a simple hat trick to warp his face or his voice. It was a gift and a much used skill.

"If my lady wishes to use me as a chair, I suppose I'm helpless to her whim, aren't I?" he added as an almost afterthought, lifting one shoulder slightly. In all honesty he was pleased to have her so close. She was just so devastatingly beautiful. It was amazing how two people could have almost identical hair colors, The Princess and Evelyn, but look so different. Perhaps it was her breasts. Eve was rather flat. Yes, that was probably it. Alanya had a nice figure. And that look in her eye. And she was amusing to talk to. And she was currently in his lap, so she had most of his attention, which pulled for a lot. Daniel was the type of man who often thought most fondly of whatever creature was currently in his embrace, no matter who it was. No game was more important than the current one, and currently he was engaged in whatever tangled mess he called his game with the Princess of the Vampires.

Still rather confused, her mind struggling to come back into reality, Sapphire didn’t at first register Simone’s words, even as she repeated herself… or elaborated on what she had said in the first place. To be quite honest, Saph wasn’t sure. She blinked a couple of times, looking at the redheaded of the three young women. Then it hit her and she gaped at her sister for a second before shaking her head instinctively. “Glazed look? What glazed look? There is absolutely no glaze look.” She took a sip of her water to hide her slight discomfort. She hated that her eyes always gave her away. Sometimes it was simply just a ridiculously tedious drag. Especially when she did not in any way want to talk of the person on her mind.

However, Simone obviously wasn’t taking Saph’s bullshit answer because she kept looking at her, so Sapphire merely rolled her eyes, smiling wryly at her older sister. “Seriously, sis. No guy makes my eyes glaze over, so there’s that. It doesn’t happen. Now, should we-“ she was about to say more when Syd interrupted. The blonde’s Sapphire coloured eyes sought out the youngest of the three as she continued speaking. At her words, Sapphire frowned faintly, quirking her head slightly to the side. “Staring?” she repeated, biting down on her lower lip just slightly. Tall, long hair… well that could be just about anyone. But not just about anyone would stand there and creepily stare at her from behind. “That’s odd,” she noted, puzzlement in her voice. After all, if he was behind her, all he would be able to see was her back, her neck, and her puffy bun of blonde hair.

She wasn’t sure she wanted to check though. She didn’t want to check who it was. Because it might be him. Also because it might not be him. She didn’t like any of those possibilities very much, which meant she was screwed in any case. However, in the end she drew in a deep breath and glanced her only to freeze up, lips falling apart just a little as she drew in a sharp breath.

There he stood, holding a hand in the air as if in greeting. As if he hadn’t been completely MIA for the past two years. Ever since he had saved her from a group of young men aiming to rape her senseless. He would’ve been nice to him after that. Hell, she’d actually even force herself to thank him, even if the taste of it on her tongue had been horrid. The only problem with her wanting to be nice, was his own behavior. It completely prevented that from happening. Because he was an arrogant asshole. She had no idea why she even bothered wanting to see him again. Nope. No clue. He was nothing but a pain in her ass. Yes, that was what he was. But by the gods, seeing him again she found herself drawn to him once more. Found herself wanting to speak with him… to continue their little spats.

What the hell was wrong with her? He was standing there, staring at her in the most creepy way, looking at if he expected her to come to him. Would she? Should she? Yes… and no. She would, but she really shouldn’t. She just… wanted to yell at him. Yes, she wanted to yell at him. Why the hell was he back now? It made no sense to her. She cleared her throat, pretending like no time had passed as she’d stared Sabine right in the eye, and turned briefly to her sisters. “I should go check that out. We’ll talk later?” She didn’t wait for an answer as she put money on the table, grabbed her bag and gave both her sisters pecks on their cheeks, adding a hurried “love you” to them both before moving towards the blonde stalker. Her pace was steadfast and decisive, her steps controlled but with a very specific target. Her eyes were set on Sabine, and soon she was in front of him.

“It’s rude to stare,” she merely snapped at him, her voice slightly irritated already as she raised an eyebrow. “But then, I suppose manners aren’t your strong suit, are they?” The pair was far enough from her sisters to keep them from hearing the exchange, thankfully.

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Captain Daniel Bowman was definitely not the only one enjoying the view presented. He was a handsome man, this one, which, in part, was the cause of her game. That and the fact that he was simply difficult. The fact that he did not fall at her feet, instantly in love with her because she was just “so beautiful”. No, if Daniel told her he loved her, it would merely be in an attempt to play her. Which was another part of it. She found it exciting that he did not simply fall in line when she played – instead, he’d play right back. It was an interesting, unspoken agreement. None of them wanted to lose. None of them did losing. To Alanya, it was simply not an option. She always came out on top. She was a princess. She was a winner. Nothing less would do.

When he spoke of having more time for work, however, her eyes sparkled and she let out a short, feminine, almost flirtatious laugh. Alanya leaned over gracefully and took his letter, waving it in the air. “Work, you say? Why, my dear captain, I feel rather certain this is not ‘work’ related.” She smiled playfully at that and leaned forwards, lips by his ear in the next instant. “Do you not have better things to do?” She quirked an eyebrow, that mischievous glint in her eyes ever so present as she let the piece of paper fall onto the cushion next to the one Daniel was seated on.

However, she soon stilled as his hand caressed the smooth, creamy skin of her face and her amber eyes moved to look straight into his, intense and thoughtful. Not a lot of people dared touch her without permission. Mostly because she’d been known to kill men for stepping over her boundaries. She always set the pace, but he didn’t particularly mind with Daniel. Because she wanted him. Because she liked his touch. But still, it was a little odd. It was not the first time he had touched her such, but she had yet to grow accustomed. His words, however, dragged her from her line of thought and she laughed softly, feigned innocence to the sound. “Me? Ravishing the town? Oh no, sweetness, I would much rather entertain our most honored captain this evening.”

She let the hand on his neck teasingly slide down his neck to his chest and just below that taut muscle, her slim and delicate fingers brushing his skin most tauntingly, all the while looking into his eyes, the amber depths of hers glittering with intensity and heated promises. Once there, her voice became alluringly promiscuous, a bedroom kind of purr to it. “Darling Daniel, if you would like me to move myself elsewhere, all you need to do is say the word.” This was a reply both to his words of Evelyn and the letter, but also to him acting the victim to her “whims”. She would not let him have that one. Mostly because she was perfectly aware of the fact that he enjoyed her current position as much as she did. He wouldn’t ask her to move. Her sweet captain was much too eager a player in this game. He was much too attached to the female sex.

And he was far too interested. So she wasn’t worried. In fact, she let her soft lips quirk into a tempting, wicked smile. Her body leaned into his slightly, but as always, Alanya was painfully close, all temptation, but no relief would come. Her touches were light and teasing, her voice holding promises she had no intention of keeping, her eyes intensely focused, as though the person she was looking at was the center of her world, the one thing she wanted above anything. Of course all of this was part of the game, but even so, even knowing this about her, if they could guess at the plans behind her mysterious eyes… men could never quite just be casual about it. Because that was what she did.

It was what she had perfected over the centuries, and she had learned from the very best: Her father. What she hadn’t learned from him… she had found by observing the ladies at court. Those in power. The women who had captured the most powerful men. Those were women Alanya enjoyed spending time with and had always let herself learn from. If a woman knew how to manipulate men, if she knew how to give them that sense of power, there was nothing she could not achieve. Men liked to feel wanted and powerful, they needed to feel loved. Really, Daniel was no different than every other man in that regard, but he went about it a little differently. That was what made him interesting to the relatively young vampire princess.

She would be queen one day, but that did not mean she could be careless and assume everyone would just fall in line. Oh no. Even her strong and capable father had fought for his place, and she would have to as well. She did not wish to deceive herself by thinking otherwise.

Sabine Marx


It took her a moment, but finally, finally the blonde looked around. Sabine’s lips curved into a momentary smirk. She stared at him for a moment and he patiently held her gaze. She seemed surprised when she looked over; her mouth had fallen ever so slightly open when she’d met his eyes, but he could see that expression changing until she turned around again. He dropped his hand, tucking it in his pocket, not moving an inch. She would come over; he had no question of that. That look on her face just before she’d turned back around to the other humans at the table had told him that. Indeed, she did not linger, but made her over to where he was waiting on the corner of the street. His eyes tracked her as she made her way over. Her pace reminded him of the first time they’d met, though it bothered him much less now. This situation he had control over. She was coming to him. It didn’t matter how annoyed she was, she was coming to him.

The first words out of her mouth were snappish, but Sabine took them coolly. He had missed speaking with her. No one else spoke with such…irritation towards him. It was rather amusing, and it was enjoyable to return her comments. Not only a mental challenge, but her words in themselves were so very amusing. “I believe the correct way to start a conversation is with a greeting, not an accusation, süß. I suppose I’m not the only impolite party in this conversation. Anyway, I was simply waiting for you.” He inclined his jaw slightly. “It would have been impolite to interrupt you and your companions while you were eating. It is not my fault the small dark haired one noticed me.”

And they were back at it. Sabine felt as if it had merely been the day before when he’d draped his jacket around her shoulders and disappeared back into the darkness. Her anger, it seemed, was everlasting, ready to be turned at whatever was available. It appeared it wasn’t something that came and went, but a permanent personality trait. Or perhaps he was the reason she was so angry when talking to him. Which would be fine. Actually, that would be rather amusing. She didn’t realize that if she just didn’t say anything and just went on her way, he would have never bothered her in the first place, because normal humans were just boring. But then again, if she hadn’t caught his eye then he wouldn’t have beaten up those stupid humans for her, and she’d be in a much worse state. Usually he didn’t bother with humans and their violence, he really didn’t care and he still couldn’t figure out what had possessed him to help her. Perhaps because of her fire. She was too interesting to just become another victim.

“You looked surprised when you turned around, Miss Parker, did you forget that you still have possession of my handkerchief and jacket? I told you I’d be back to retrieve my things. Did you not believe me?” Sabine paused for a moment, the very faintest of smirks still on his face as he lifted his eyebrow inquisitively.

He had told her he would be back, but even he hadn’t known that it would be two years before he would see her again. He hadn’t expected that they’d need to leave on such short notice. And she’d not been such a priority that he leave as they were preparing things to return to the kingdom, though he had wished to, since his last words to her had been a concession, and it was so horribly terrible to leave while the other had the upper foot. And because nothing seemed as entertaining as talking to the curious human, everything else was simply dull in comparison.

He was aware that he was being downright terrible. To humans two years was a terribly long time. She probably didn’t have his things anymore, and that didn’t particularly bother him, but if she’d though he wasn’t going to return, that was a different story. He was the King of the Daemons, he always kept his word, even if sometimes other things complicated his promises. Though, honestly, she had no right to be angry. It wasn’t like he’d promised himself to her or anything, far from it. She was nothing but a human on his much larger expanse of things. Two years for him was tiny as a grain of sand in his nearly four millennia, her entire life would fit comfortably and insignificantly within his own. He didn’t see it that way, but it was true. Silly self absorbed humans.

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Daniel Bowman


The woman on his lap reached out and plucked up the letter off the table with a laugh, flourishing it in the air. Daniel smirked. As she leaned closer her lips so close that her breath danced warm against his ear as she spoke. Then she discarded the letter on a chair, where it sat, forgotten. “I’d beg to differ, Princess, tending to my women is quite a bit of work.” He hummed back, the lilt of amusement in his voice blurring the traces of mock hurt also infused in his tone. “But I suppose amusing royalty takes priority in my position?” He smiled slightly, as if he was nobly sacrificing his duty to his lover to serve his princess. She wanted his attention, and she could have it, but not without a bit of pretended grudging. All part of the game. Otherwise she’d think him all too easy. And that would be a shame wouldn’t it? And playing difficult was great fun anyway, he was usually the one taking the woman by the hand, trying to overcome her reservations, and being difficult wouldn’t help him win at all in such a situation. But Alanya reciprocated, and it made the dance much more fun.

She affected the same innocent air that he had, and Daniel couldn’t help but feel that they were dancing dangerously close to some edge, and it bit into his heart, spreading adrenaline into his system. It was almost exhilarating to play his game with the Princess, as if there was some unspoken danger, like he was blindfolded on a high wire, but still somehow managed to walk in a straight line. He watched her mouth as she spoke again, but his eyes flicked up to hers when her hand began traveling down from his neck back to his chest. “What have I done to earn such a gift?” He feigned ignorance, though his silver eyes were still bright on face. He knew very well what she wanted with him, even if her exact intentions were not clear. She was most likely merely bored, perhaps she’d broken another toy. Yes, he remembered hearing a conversation about that. She wanted to wander out to the human world and find a better one there, more like, but the sun wasn’t down yet. Ah, the limitations of being young. He didn’t mind being her plaything for a little while because he was quite confident that there was no way she could ever break him. It simply wasn’t possible, just as he could never catch her in his romantic traps. It didn’t stop him from trying, looking for the weakness in her construction, because that was the fun of the whole matter.

She was tauntingly close, but he could feel her body coiled like a panther preparing to strike. She was a dangerous but beautiful creature. Perhaps that was her allure. She was a predator, deliberate in her actions, and clever. But Daniel could play her game too. Let her hunt her prey but slip away at the last second. The most thrilling part was seeing how close to the edge he could draw his lovely princess. He could see savory seduction in her eyes as she leaned closer, but he was no stranger to such heated mistruths. He was a patron of such delicious promises himself. “Ah, but my love, who am I to displace a princess from her throne?” He returned, his voice equally silky. He blinked lazily at her. “That would be treason, and I am a most loyal subject, you know, Princess. I would never do such a thing.” He was quite sure that they both knew that it wasn’t very likely for him to actually tell her to go away, she was too much fun, and he knew that she probably wouldn’t go if he told her to. In all actuality, even if he did want her gone, he probably won’t tell her so. That was a dangerous option. And Daniel was no fool, even if he did play it sometimes, for one end or another.

Her lips were curved in a deliciously malicious grin; she seemed very pleased with herself, Daniel noted. She was doing to him what he did to so many women, the teasing, remaining just out of reach for all the gentle brushing of her fingers across his skin, and the purred words that really meant nothing in the grand scheme of things. Daniel didn’t mind though, he was a man who enjoyed the moment. Tomorrow would worry about himself, so long as he could have his fun today when it came to love. He was a better strategist than that, but that required a different type of focus that he currently utilized. For now his attentions were focused perfectly on the flawless creature before him, though he played aloofness, a certain disinterest in his eyes as he cast them lazily over her face. That was what it took for some women. Once he’d caught them a little bit, some would do most anything to try and keep his attentions. Jealousy was a beautiful creature, and she’d helped him in his exploits many a time. Such a simple trick wouldn’t work on Alanya, of course, but he knew if he seemed too interested she’d leave, because that was just no fun at all.

“I’m sure Eve will understand why it took me so long to write her, won’t she.” He mused aloud. “After all, my duties to the royal family do come first, don’t they.” Neither sentence was a question, despite the phrasing, nor did either require a response, but Daniel’s eyes wandered up the princess’s face as if he was waiting for one. He would continue mentioning his current lover until the princess did something about it, because he was rather curious to see how much it would bother her.

Alexander had been growing slightly impatient due to the hunger. He recognized that he was in no way being himself. In fact, he was as far from himself as he could possibly be. He was out of control, he was hungry, he was murderous simply because he was hungry, and by the gods, was he impatient. That wasn’t like him. Alexander was almost patient to the point of it being slightly unnerving. He was calm, collected and cold. He did not lose that control of himself. Except he had… after meeting her. That redheaded human had messed up his head, so as much as he wanted to keep her alive, to keep her blood flowing, the urge to rip her head off as revenge was also screaming at him.

He probably wouldn’t be able to do that when it came down to it, however. After all, he’d actually protected her from one of his own kin. He had killed his own kind because of a human. For a long time, Alexander had pondered this, wondering why he had done what he did that night. The memories haunted him just as much as the taste of her blood. He needed to know what it was about her that had her affecting him like no woman, let alone human woman, ever had before. He couldn’t merely accept it, because he wasn’t made like that. Alexander sought the deeper meaning, he wanted the mystery solved. What was so special about this redheaded human?

Even as his thought raged, Alexander registered the exact second Simone stepped into the bar, her scent teasing his hungry senses as his green eyes flashed up to focus on her instantly. She had not changed much in the last two years, it appeared. Not much at all. Except she appeared hesitant, nervous even, as though she knew he was there. How curious, considering she didn’t turn to look at him. He knew she could feel his gaze on her. Focusing on her, he could so clearly hear the way her heart had sped up, the delicious blood coursing through her veins at a much higher speed. He took a deep breath, taking in her tantalizing scent.

Her smile, the one she offered the bartender, appeared almost, like she was trying to hide her nerves from him. This was certainly an interesting development from the human who had fought so hard to play hard to get. He was painfully aware of the way the vein in her neck pulsed in the most appetizing way. He was so hungry, yet with her entrance the need to kill had almost vanished. It was there, beneath the surface, but the need for the red life source in her veins was not diminished. All he knew was that he did no longer feel the need to kill for this hunger. It was more… controlled.

He watched and listened only for a little while as she ordered her drink. Then he elegantly moved into a standing position and brought himself towards her, his legs carrying him effortlessly through the crowd of… erhm, moving bodies. His eyes were intensely on Simone, wanting her, craving her. No, not her. Just her blood. Her blood was all he wanted. The human was of no other importance, because she couldn’t be. She was human. She was an animal, a slave at best. And he would treat her as such… as soon as he was able. Yes, he would stop these silly thoughts of keeping her safe from others, and he would forget that he had ever saved her. Inwardly, Alexander nodded in satisfaction. This night would not end the way she intended it to.

He raised an eyebrow when he heard the bartender’s last comment, however, so when he reached Simone finally, he was smirking. Here he comes the bartender had said, as though Simone was here for him alone. As though she had brought herself here for him to approach her. The thought would’ve brought a predatory grin to his lips if he had not been busy keeping up appearances. She wanted it. She wanted him. She had feigned slight disinterest when they had met before, although he had known of her attraction towards her. That was no surprise, however. Alexander was quite used to women wanting him. A sexy, dark smirk was on his lips as he stopped beside her, taking a sip of the drink he had brought with him.

“Good evening, Simone.” He started, his voice that same masculine purr it always was. That much was not faked. Alexander simply had the most alluring way of speaking. His voice alone could turn a woman wanton, and ah, it had indeed before. “It’s been a while, has it not?” He continued.

---

---

Sabine’s reply caused Sapphire to narrow her eyes at him immediately, staring him down in spite of her being much, much shorter than he. He would not intimidate her, and he would most definitely not play her like this. Oh no, it did not work that way. “I never claimed to be a polite soul, Mr. Marx.” She countered, raising an eyebrow at him them. “You, however, seem to continuously do so,” she continued then, bringing a hand up to brush a stray bit of hair out of her face. “And then, in spite of it,” she began elaborating, “you prove yourself to be much the opposite.” With that last comment, Sapphire gave him a defiant look. Oh, that amusement in his eyes irritated her just as much as it had two years ago. Perhaps even more.

How he mustered bringing this level of irritation in her, by only just speaking with her for but a few seconds, or looking at her in one specific way, she did not know. And why the hell she was then talking to him anywhere, was absolutely, completely and utterly beyond her comprehension. This man was a pain in her ass, yet she loved it. Part of her loved it. Of course the more sensible, proud and stubborn part would never love it, and as such, Sapphire found herself wanting to be near him, yet wanting to punch him at the same time. It was a very confusing mixture of feelings, because for some reason she found herself drawn to this man.

He wasn’t particularly handsome in the more classical way, that much was true, and he definitely was a little too much on the skinny side, but by the gods, he exuded something she simply could not ignore. He commanded her attention simply by standing there, simply by being there. It was unnerving yet exciting and exhilarating at the same time. Which was definitely enough to bug her.

The blonde stood there, watching the man before her, eyes so focused and fiery on his. Oh, he had the most beautiful eyes, did he not? That emerald green seemed to draw her in like the first time they had met. Ugh, why did he have this effect on her?!

Her mouth set in a line, her jaw clenched when he spoke next. That. Smirk. She felt her palms twitching to slap him right across the face, felt her body grow tense. Really? He was going to act like he’d only been MIA for a week or two? Really? Really? And that little smirk. Again. Fucking infuriating male! ”Did you not believe me?” he then ended his little act, and Sapphire instinctively lifted her hand. Her palm hit his cheek in the next instant, the sound of the slap ringing out ever so clearly, and it felt good. He’d come back for his fucking handkerchief and jacket… after two years? He came back because of that? She brought her hand down, clenching it at her side to keep herself from doing it again.

“I. Don’t. Have them.” She told him, her words clipped as she began walking away from him. “It’s been two years. I don’t keep shit that’s not mine around for that long.” She’d had it with him and this little game. This was all it took. She was so furious, she was practically bristling and all she wanted to do was go beat something up. But of course that was out of the question, so she’d probably end up going to a club where she’d dance very closely with a lot of guys and turn down all of them, because the way they spoke was wrong, or the way they walked, or the way they looked at her. It was all wrong, because they weren’t him. Asshole. In truth, Sapphire had both handkerchief and jacket in the back of her closet. But she wasn’t telling him that, and she definitely wasn’t giving either piece to him. With his behavior, there was no way he deserved any kindness from her.

---

---

 
Alanya pursed her lips when Daniel asked what he’d done to… ah, “earn such a gift”. She was rather amused by him, to be frank. Especially because she knew he was perfectly aware, or rather, at least had a good guess, as to why she was currently in his lap, flirting with him, teasing him. Of course she figured he had no idea of her ultimate goal in his regard, but he knew very well that she enjoyed this little game they played, and every time she was bored she’d happily come to him. He always welcomed her with the same glint in his eyes, and the same sexy smirk on his lips. He was pure temptation and he knew it. The key was to not let him know she wanted him as much as she did. Because if he found out, he would lose interest. Or, rather he would play much harder, and then she’d probably end up in his bed, which would entirely ruin her endgame here.

“You have such a pretty smile,” she countered playfully in response to his question, with just a tint of sarcasm. It was a stupid one, so it deserved a silly answer. She smirked at him, “it really is quite the headturner and certain worthy of my affections. Do you not think so?” The glint in her eye was ever so mischievous.

“Suppose you wouldn’t,” she then replied to his claim of never being one to ask her to leave her “throne”, feigned thoughtfulness to her voice before she leaned closer, her breath dancing over the sensitive skin of his upper neck as she murmured into his ear, “but somehow I am having trouble seeing it as proof of your undying loyalties, my dear.” She laughed softly, the sound pearling beautifully off of her tongue, a sweet purr to its undertones. Then her lips found his skin, brushing against it just below his ear. She was tempted to take it further, but that would have to wait… a little while. Just a little. Teasing touches and light brushes of her lips were what would keep his body tense and coiled like it was now. Sweet Daniel might feign disinterest, but she knew better. She knew he wanted her as much as she did him. If for nothing else, then to win the game.

The thought of winning pushed them both in one direction alone: the end. Because no one could win f there was no end to the game, and no one could get it to the end, if both parties were not invested. It was a fine line they walked, the two of them, but ah, they knew how to manipulate it, did they not? She smiled, a secret to the curve of her lips. Like she was planning something even now, like her mind was working out her plans as she sat there, looking at the handsome captain, her fingertips pressed only lightly against his chest. The feeling of his hand on her back was telling her plenty as well. He was not holding it there to support her, because honestly he knew well enough that she sat very well balanced on his muscled thighs. The hand was there because he could excuse his touching her that way.

She laughed when he spoke of Evelyn again, pretending as though she was a priority simply because he had duties due to her position. Oh, the darling, trying to make her jealous. Smiling widely, affecting the grin of a predator smoothly capturing its prey, Alanya shifted in his lap, one leg now on each side of him as her taunting hands danced up his chest, fingers of one brushing against the back of his neck as she brought it to rest there. The other ever so softly, teasingly, brushed up the side of his neck, tapping it just below his ear; the exact same spot she had previously kissed.

“You are so delightfully cute when you try to make me jealous, my sweet,” she began, her voice a soft, teasing purr as she slowly leaned closer, only speaking next once her mouth was no more than half an inch from his, the two sets of lips only just brushing against each other, as she spoke next, her voice low and tempting. “Ah, but you forget… she is so very far below my mere consideration.” As she said this, the hand on the side of his neck moved, its index finger tracing the soft skin of his lower lip, as her own lips quirked into a playful, naughty little smile, still so very, very close to his. Amber orbs flickered up to meet his eyes where they before had gazed at his lips, almost as if silently begging him to kiss her. Another little trick. Of course she would not particularly mind – in fact she would most likely enjoy it quite a bit, but ah, the art of exaggeration was key with a man like Daniel.

Sabine Marx

If looks could kill he'd be long dead, Sabine thought with mild amusement as she stared up at him, fire in her eyes. He'd forgotten just how much of a spitfire she was. Oh, the defiance in her eyes, and she didn't even know who she was resiting. Though, she probably would not care if she knew she was in the presence of the king of a species much older than she could imagine, with more power than she could ever dream of seeing in her entire insignificant life. She'd probably still shoot her flaming comments at him. He realized that he never expected anything different from her. If she was as meek as most other humans, she'd be entirely too boring. "Don't hold me to standards you yourself can't keep then, mein Lieb" He said, lifting his eyebrow right back at her.

Perhaps he should have paid more attention to the heat raising in her eyes, the anger that would pop any second, but then again, Sabine was never one to play the part of a cautious man. He was a king. He did what he wanted, and it did not matter what happened. But the clenching of her jaw, the way her hand twitched ever so slightly, it was so obvious. But he pushed on relentlessly. And she snapped. Sabine heard the sound of her hand striking his face more than felt it until after her hand was by her side again. The faint sting of her slap lingered briefly on his face and he lifted his own hand to gingerly touch the fading red mark across the side of his visage. He had never in all his life been slapped by a human. When he was younger his elders had occasionally punished him with a sharp one about the face, but that had been a long time ago. It had been a while since he'd been struck outside of combat, actually. And it gave him a bit of a turn. He hadn't expected that at all.

The green eyed daemon stared a the human for a moment, but he was a different place in his mind. Should he be angry with her? He should be angry with her, but what would that earn him? He could scare the the light of day out of her if he wished, but that wouldn't improve his standing. There would be little entertainment in that, well, less than there was in playing with her and exchanging words. If he scared her off then she would not come back. That would not be a wise decision. So he shouldn't get angry. That made enough sense to Sabine, and he came back to himself, still staring at Sapphire. His face remained stony for a moment, eyes slightly narrowed, then he laughed. It wasn't much, just a dry chuckle, but Sabine wasn't one for laughter. "My, a simple no would have sufficed, dear." He said after a moment, tipping his head very slightly as he looked at her.

The redness had faded quickly from his face, the only thing that had been swifter in its exit was the sting of her slap. He'd dealt with much worse before, a petty slap from a human woman was nothing. The only thing they were meant for was to prove a point anyway. If Sapphire had wanted to actually hurt him she would have either punched him or sought out a more sensitive target for her attack. She was merely angry, and as a human she wasn't very learned in controlling her anger, apparently. Part of her charm, perhaps.

"Would you like an apology, Miss Parker? Would that sooth your nerves?" He asked after a moment, the grin fading from his face slowly. "I might give it a shot. How would this work?" He paused, clearing his throat, before adopting a polite tone that bordered on scathing. "Miss Parker, I'm so very terribly sorry I left for two years. The other pressing matters in my life obviously don't take precedence to you, who I've spoken to all of two days. Please forgive me, I forgot we were betrothed and I'd promised to never leave your side again." He bowed, the faint quirk of a smirk returning to his face. "How ever will I make this terrible transgression up to you?" Sabine had never really had a flair for the dramatic, but he pulled it off rather well before his eyes returned to her, and eyebrow lifted, as if he was asking to be slapped again so he could continue his biting rebuttal.

No, Sabine was not angry, it would take more than that from the woman to strike a nerve with him, but the little human required some admonishment for not only breaching his personal space, but striking him. He hadn't threatened her in any way, so there was no way she could write it off as self defense, and there were much better ways to deal with such negative emotions. But if smacking him around a bit was what struck her fancy, then he would make sure to return in full, but on his own terms.

---

Daniel Bowman

Her playful return to his question made him grin. "Ah, the practice payed off." He said offhandedly. She spoke thoughtfully then, but Daniel didn't really hear what she'd said because he was more interested in the way she was leaning against him, her breath playing lightly across the skin of his neck. The soft laugh that was nearly pressed against his flesh caused his eyelids to dip, contented for half a second with the sensual pleasure of the Princess's presence. Her lips wandered his skin for a moment, no more, and his head instinctively shifted to give her more room, but she was already gone. A faint sigh in his voice, he replied with a soft purr, "Do you require more proof of my loyalties, my Lady?" the curve of his lips faded into a quieter smile, and he tilted his head back to better look at her. There was a bit of intrigue to the way she held her face, in here eyelids and the creases of the corners of her full lips and in the sparkle in her eyes. Daniel didn't want to know what secrets she had, it was more fun to guess.

His mention of Eve worked, she shifted in his lap, straddling him. Her fingers played up his chest to his neck again, ah, she had such a fascination with throats and necks, no surprise, but Daniel had to admit, if he was a human he'd fear for his blood with her around. The way she leaned closer, so very slowly, as if he was intended to savor each moment, every sensation, which he did, he would be a fool if he didn't. She did it purposely, oh, she knew how to make a body want her, but he had his own cards to play. As she moved closer his hands lifted to rest where hip met thigh most of their own accord, because he was paying more attention to her lips and her sheer proximity. When she next spoke he could taste her, his slightly parted lips taking in her essence. A single movement, if he leaned a little closer it could be called a kiss, and the tension was delicious. She brushed away his mention of his lover as if it was nothing, but Daniel didn't believe it. She obviously wished to claim his attentions, she wouldn't be so very close if she did not.

He met her eyes for a second, her eyes reflected his urge to kiss her, and a very small smile curved on his mouth as her fingers traced his bottom lip. His hand lifted to her chin, thumb against her jawbone and the other fingers fanning out and resting against her skin. He paused for a moment, sighing softly just before her lips, tilting his head slightly. He leaned forward, brushing his lips against hers before kissing the corner of her mouth chastely and laying another kiss on the side of her jaw. "I don't believe it, my Princess." he cooed softly against her cheek before leaning back, a cocky come-get-me grin on his face, dropping his hand from her face to rest it on her leg again, for lack of a better place. He couldn't play this game for long, not with her so close, not when he could feel her body ever-moving with each breath, and could almost imagine the throb of her heart matching the beat of his own.

He was mostly confident that she knew he wouldn't be able to keep up the disinterest for much longer, they'd been friendly long enough to know the other's limits, but it was all for the fun of the game. She'd silently commanded him to kiss her, it had been in her posture, her nearness, the soft purr of her voice, and it wasn't often he could disobey a princess. His Princess. He examined her from his position, slightly leaned back, not away from her, but almost as if he'd gone slack, relaxed into the chair, away from his tense form from before. As if he was no longer wired to her movements, though he still was. He tilted his chin slightly, confidently, and lifted an eyebrow slightly, laughter in his eyes. Would she come and get him or did she have the patience to wait for him to become bored and return to her?

He himself was entirely too patient, it was often an important piece of his game plan, being too pushy with some woman would send them recoiling in fear from him. Sometimes he had to be gentle and willing to wait, slowly nudging the fair maiden in the proper direction. He had no need for that with his Princess, but he could utilize his patience in other ways, despite the increasing tension, his body's desire for her's. And if she wanted to play, he'd have to have some fun, some challenge for her, wouldn't he? That was only proper for a man of his stature, of course. Otherwise it'd be a terrible drag. A deliciously scintillating drag, but he'd lose interesting, no speaking of how Alanya would feel about the lot.

He wasn’t fooling her. Ah, her sweet Daniel was trying to very, very hard to pretend as though she did not affect him, but the way his lips parted, a quiet intake of breath as she leaned closer, her lips almost brushing his, was proof he was indeed very affected by her. Not that she was surprised. In fact, it was rather common to the princess. His eyes shifted between her full lips to her eyes, then back to her lips, and the flickering betrayed his indecision. Ah, he wanted to kiss her, he did. But he controlled himself which was as thrilling as it was taunting.

Then, however, as he looked into her eyes briefly, his eyes glimmering with the want she knew he hid right beneath the surface, and she watched him carefully, the playful smile still playing on her lips as he brushed his by her, avoiding her lips to kiss merely the corner of her mouth. She even caught herself parting her lips breathlessly, wanting his kiss, almost craving up. Ah, but she was after all a lady, so she instantly composed herself, sending a wry little smile in Daniel’s direction as he spoke to her, claiming he did not believe her when she was told him she did not consider his temporary little fling a threat. Which was funny.

Did he really think that she, a princess of great beauty, would ever downgrade herself to something as mundane as the concept of… jealousy of a lower classed little lovesick broad? She had nothing to be jealous about. She was both more beautiful, more intelligent, and she did not doubt that while Evelyn may hold Daniel’s attention fleetingly, Alanya would hold it for a very, very long time. She would make sure of it in ways the little dove had no way of even comprehending. The little dolls he liked to play had nothing on the princess, and they both knew it.

Plus, while Alanya wanted Daniel’s undivided attention and devotion, the princess harbored no softer emotions when it came to the captain. Of course she had come to care for him, but it was in the most curious of ways. They had played this game for a while, and they had gotten to know one another quickly, so she cared enough to not let him get hurt, and enough to make a certain level of sadness go through her if he died. But she was not in love with him. Merely attracted to him, really. Okay, she was extremely attracted to him, but that was all it was: attraction. A whole lot of heated, passionate, intense attraction. It was tantalizing.

“Do you not?” She noted, almost in a bored tone, although her amusement was obvious as she straightened slightly in his lap, watching him lean back with a mischievous glint in those amber eyes. “Perhaps you do not know me as well as you think, my sweet captain.” She then told him teasingly, the enticing purr back as her hands slipped from his neck to his stomach. He was going to play hard to get, was he? Wanted her to come get it, did he? Well, the vampire princess never played by the rules of others. She had other plans.

Her eyes were focused on his, grinning in the most taunting, sexy of ways as her hips moved just a little. The movements were subtle, hardly noticeable with the eyes of an outsider, and it did not even appear as much, or to be sexual in any way, but the two vampires currently interacting felt it very clearly. Ah, it had been a while since she had worked this little trick. It had never faltered, not even with Daniel. She leaned back against him, the hands on his stomach tracing and massaging the toned muscles of his body. Then her gaze whipped up, going from his stomach to his eyes and she cast him a little smirk. “I can feel how much you want it, Danny. We both know you’re not going to keep this up much longer,” she teased him, a glint in her amber eyes.

---

---

Alexander remained quiet as he watched the redhead, gauging her reaction to him. Ah, but she was indeed attracted to him. He had not imagined that, but the human in her recognized that there was something about him, some predatory air that she could not ignore, however hard she tried to. He did not doubt she would talk in her own time, so in spite of her having place her bag – very defiantly – on the chair next to her, Alexander merely leaned his imposing body against the smooth bar counter, his elbow on the surface and while his green eyes never strayed from her face, he still took a sip of his drink. It wasn’t bad.

Then she spoke and he smiled, inclining his head slightly in a half nod, silently informing her he agreed, and though he would usually consider two years the same as he did the fraction of a sand corn in the sands of time that made up his life, Alexander did not entirely disagree with her. Mostly because these past two years had been so excruciatingly frustrating, they had felt like centuries. So many centuries. She drove his will up the wall, his once so impressive patience reduced to nothing, and it was a bother. So while two years was really nothing, they had felt very, very long.

He knew she could see her, because she had turned her head just enough to carefully peak at him, perhaps afraid to look. He could not quite understand why, however. Sure, humans were either intrigued or terrified of him, yet this creature seemed to have a much different take on him. She was nervous, but not for fear of him, it seemed. So what made her so nervous? His looks? No. She was much too defiant, much too confident. This intrigued him, which in itself was an abnormality.

Oh, wait, was that her gauging his body? His lips quirked into a smirk as he caught her gaze on him and the way she straightened. Oh yes, she was ripe for the plucking, she just didn’t want to admit to herself. “I suppose it is,” he then finally said as he watched her eat her olive. It always amused him quite a bit to see humans playing their little games, trying to tempt him. He was used to the vampire ladies at home, and by the gods did they know how to seduce a man. This was… nothing. She was attractive for a human, but she was still a human. She would be among the ones he would be taking to his bed if he did not wish for her to stay alive. Alas, he did, and so he had to contend himself on her blood. Not a problem.

He chuckled in amusement at her next words: “So you think that you can just show up here all of a sudden?” He couldn’t help it. She was simply being so odd. “I apologize, my dear. I was not aware you owned the place,” he countered playfully, telling her he was up for whatever she slung at him, and that he wasn’t giving up. “I did not particularly expect you to be here tonight,” he added on an afterthought, changing the subject even as he watched her with an almost pensive glint to his green eyes. Ah, and she was staring him in the eyes now, was she? He smirked, a playful glint to his eyes as he reciprocated in kind.

Another slight laugh escaped his lips when she explained her presence by a friend having called her to make him leave, and jumping at the opportunity, the king smiled alluringly, setting his glass easily on the table before moving towards her, a single step bringing them toe to toe as he gazed down at her, his hands moving to grasp the bar counter behind her, capturing her between his heated gaze, his muscular arms, and the bar behind her as his smile turned playful, yet the passionate, heated look in his eyes made the whole thing more than a little erotic, especially as his voice joined in and he leaned close to her, his lips by hers as he murmured, never taking his eyes off of her, “well, then I suppose we had better do as this friend of yours requests of us, hm?”

---

---

Sapphire didn’t miss the way Sabine looked at her. The surprise in his eyes, and in his gesture as he’d brought his hand up to his slapped cheek. The stony expression on his face, and the threatening narrowing of his eyes would normally have paused her, and she would have apologized. But ah, she’d tried to be polite with this male once before, and he had merely kept taunting her, his slightly sarcastic voice biting when he spoke. So she’d given up on that, and she wasn’t making the same mistake twice. She would not be taken for a fool in spite of what he might be thinking of her. The fact was, however, that no matter how angry he got, or how eerie his eyes became, she did not give a shit. He had hurt her pride, and Sapphire was very fond of her pride. Lord knew why she was even this hung up on him.

She ignored his first remark, and the fact that he was following her again, because it had certainly made him go away last time, had it not? Yes. It had. So if it worked once, it would probably work again. This was not entirely unlike dealing with a stubborn child. Huh. Charming comparison, was it not? Ah, but she was sick of his little ‘endearments’. They meant nothing to him, so they meant nothing to her, which made them ever so redundant. Prick. She had much better things she could do than stand around arguing with this man.

However, when the male blonde’s next words cut into her, she paused, stopping in her tracks immediately. Well… that was… unusual. Perhaps he’d hit a nerve simply because she knew he was right; she did overreact, and she was more than a little angry with him leaving for two years for some reason she probably didn’t want to recognize. Perhaps she just didn’t like being played like that, but really it went deeper. Sabine was the only man who’d ever commanded her attention, the only man whose voice could both cut and caress her. It was so unusual and unnerving, it was, and she knew that her odd attraction was the real reason she was angry.

And then the fact that part of her had been waiting for him, comparing every other guy to him. She hated this odd teenage infatuation and she found it just as ridiculous as he probably did. However, not wanting him to see that he was right and that she had realized as much in reality, she turned around, raising an eyebrow, feigning slightly bored indifference. Her gaze rivaled his as she stared right back at him. Why did he insist on being so obnoxious? If only he had been easier to deal with, Saph would not have minded her odd emotions as such, but no, he simply had to be some asshole.

“I sincerely hope you do not treat all women this way, Sabine. But it would explain why you look like you haven’t gotten laid in the past millennium or so, I suppose,” told him, biting right back. She did have a point though. He was stiff and tense in his posture, like there was something beneath the surface that wanted out, but he wouldn’t let it. She wondered what would happen if that damn burst. Part of her was eager to see it. But that didn’t stop her from keeping her act up, pretending that his words had not touched her one bit. Now, that was something she had perfected over the years.

“Why are you even still talking to me?” She then added, a slight sneer to her voice. “I don’t have your stuff. Isn’t it what you came for?” She pursed her lips thoughtfully, watching him, trying to keep up the indifference, but the fire wasn’t far beneath the attempted mask. It was there. Ever present in her eyes. “You can leave me alone now,” she then concluded, turning to walk again. She wanted to go home and wallow in ice cream. She had wanted to see him again, but it seemed he was set on making it hell on her.

James Dylor

The front hall was looking a bit scuffed. James lingered for about thirty minutes, waiting to see if anyone else planned to clean it, as it was not part of his job description and he really shouldn't do things like that, especially when he still had to find the rest of the woman's clothes and return them to her. She'd left him with the ultimatum that he was not getting the sheet back until she had her full ensemble back in her closet. James could understand that, but he couldn't fathom where her clothes had gone. She'd claimed that she'd left them where they fell int he King's quarters, but they hadn't been there. At all. Except for the single garment. As if they'd up and disappeared. A rather frustrating notion. Which was why James was so ardent to clean now. As if that would make up for the failure elsewhere, when in fact it would just make someone else's job a bit easier, and his hands a bit rougher for the wear.

After he'd deemed that no one else planned to clean the floor, the boy ran off to collect a bucket and all the other supplies he'd require, then pulled his sleeves up to his elbows, dropped to his knees, and got to work scrubbing the life out of the poor floor. As he worked he noticed that the floor was extremely dirty, past the state he usually allowed the floors he was required to clean in all Garreth's places of residence. Perhaps no one had bothered with it when they'd arrived, or maybe some other Lykae had gotten away with a half-assed job. That didn't bother James much though, but it did worry him that the floors in other part of the manor might be similarly dirtied. He'd have to go check at some point. But for now, this floor was top priority.

Perhaps the reason for his working fervor were not merely because of the embarrassment earlier in the day, though. Perhaps he'd found himself fed up with trying to decipher the letter. It was nearly frustrating to the point of tears. Having the letter in his hands but not able to read it, knowing that his father had spoken to him but not able to understand it. it was embarrassing as well, because he knew at one point he'd been able to read, at one point he'd been a fair reader, but now, now it was all gone. gone when he really needed it. Wonderful. Such a line of reason would have made sense, considering the intensity with which the halfling boy attacked the floors, pulling dirt out that was nearly in the core of the flooring until his hands were mucked by it. He was not very strong, not by any definition of the word, but when he focused on a task, he could make the floors shine. Part of the reason he was the current personal servant to the King. And also partly because the king found him amusing, or so James assumed, judging by the number of tricks His Majesty had pulled on him. The countless tricks. And it seemed they were always getting worse. Just when James was confident that he could handle things, His Majesty had to go and switch everything around or put a new stipulation, or run off and leave a mess nearly too big for him to handle on his own.

That wasn't to say the James didn't love his king. He served The Lykae king with as much loyalty as he could muster. But he didn't always like his sometimes-antagonist. Well, his most-of-the-time-antagonist. Sometimes His Majesty made it very difficult for James to like him, but James was uncomplaining. he was a competitive spirit, and in a sense he was a prideful one. He would not ask for help. He could not. It simply was not the way James worked. It had never even crossed his mind that he could make things even a little bit different with a little bit of asking, the silly boy.

He was mostly done with the floor of the front hall when the door opened. James sprung to his feet, dropping everything. It could be any number of people, but most of those people were more important than him and deserved his deference, which meant that he had to pay attention to them. He watched for a moment, then saw it was Lord Rhaun. He bowed deeply to the Lykae adviser. James respected him, he was a man of presence and wisdom, and one of composure. One could almost say that he looked up to the Lykae, but one would not know such things, because James did so very shyly.

---

Sabine Marx

Ah, he'd struck another nerve, quick quickly in fact. It was a new record. She issued what probably to her was an insult, but to him was a little more close to home than she might think. As the centuries passed he'd lost interest in indulging carnal knowlage. After the initial rush of lust in his youth, the desire to try everything, to know everything about the woman's body, it became boring. No woman could offer him anything he hadn't already experienced before, and they most likely couldn't do a better job than some other creature he'd already had years before. There was nothing more to it than that drive in the moment, and then it was gone. There were no long term rewards. It was pointless. Sure, if he wanted, he could try and bed as many woman as he could, just for the sake of it, but why? It was merely a game that he'd decided he'd won a long time ago.

"Give or take a few centuries," he said coolly with the faintest shrug of his shoulders. Most likely not the reaction she was expecting. Perhaps she would think it was a joke. Obviously someone couldn't live for a whole millennium, it was unheard of! Foolish humans never could seem to understand things that were beyond them anyway, he'd come to terms with that very early on in his dealings with the creatures. After all, he wouldn't be so affluent in this world if he hadn't done a bit of manipulating and twisted some arms.

The annoyance in her voice when she snapped at him was apparent. Was he treading a fine line, or was there still a bit of space before he made her explode? Most likely the latter. if he remembered, she'd been one to anger quickly. She had a look of disinterest on her face, but her words betrayed her. She did care, very much. Otherwise she'd just shut up and walk away. So long as she continued to be interesting, Sabine would stay, and he was quite sure she knew that. "What gave you that impression?" He retorted, but there was a faint lilt of something less than sarcastic in his tone. Perhaps an ounce of sincerity. Just perhaps. As if it was a ritual, he followed her as she turned and began walking away, anything less would be losing this battle. "What if I wanted to make sure you were alright? The last time I saw you you weren't exactly in top shape, liebchen, standing at your doorstep alone in the middle of the night, fumbling for your keys with my coat draped over you." He recalled that moment vividly, though technically he hadn't been a part of it. Then he realized he'd let something slip that would only do to inflame the little blonde further, if she caught it. He'd told her that she could make her own way home, after a short argument in which he'd insisted that he escort her, but he eventually 'gave up' and followed her home on his own, just to make sure she was okay. Oh well, there was nothing he could do about it now. Maybe she wouldn't notice. Although, if she did, would it really hurt him that much? What could she do, slap him again?

He then contemplated the last part of her snappish counter. He could leave her alone now. It was so lovely to have her permission to do something. Oh, now he'd be just so inclined to do so! Except for one thing. He couldn't. Sabine couldn't put his finger on what it was, but he didn't want to go. He felt that if he did he'd lose something, something more than just his handkerchief and jacket. Perhaps because he didn't like exiting on such a poor note, or perhaps for the same reason their last meeting had stuck so clearly in his mind. Whatever reason that was. He didn't want to leave. Maybe because that would be giving up. He'd gone all this way, all the way from his own world, for what? To walk away? That wasn't him, that had never been him. He would pursue this until he knew just what he wanted from this human girl. This Sapphire Parker, who'd stared back at him with cocky intensity, who had the guts to stand up against a king who had killed more people in his lifetime than she would ever know.

"If I can't have my handkerchief back I need something to show for the trip back here, at least." he said offhandedly, casting a green eyed glance at the fiery blonde. She was such a curiosity. It made him hate her but crave her for the same reasons, she was stubborn and sharp and rude and she was witty and biting and clever. Her word were dually irritatingly impertinent and interesting enough to warrant a response. And that passion. If she could manage it a bit better, make it a touch less headstrong, it would be beautiful. But perhaps her unrestrained emotion was what made her so appealing past her stunning blue eyes and her visually attractive form, which really weren't all that special in the long run of things. There were plenty of pretty people in all places. There were even pretty Lykaes, which showed just how unimportant such a quality was. But pretty person who had quality. That was something.

Even if that something was stubborn and had smacked him across the face not too long ago.

---

Daniel Bowman

He could feel the princess miss the kiss, he could still feel that tiny gasp that had crossed his skin when her lips parted, but she composed herself admirably. He could feel the tension between himself and her spark though, the delicious desire singing against the inside of his mouth. She purred at him teasingly, countering his refusal of her claim, and his eyelids hooded. Well, they'd see about that, wouldn't they? She would win, ultimately, or at least, she would think she'd won, but he'd not concede until he received what he wanted from her. Not jealous his ass, if she didn't want her attention she would have gotten up and left, her fingers wouldn't be tracing his abdomen, following the grooves of his muscles tauntingly. But it would be a mutual victory, perhaps. He'd gotten what he wanted, she'd worked for him a little bit, thinking that she was merely teasing him, and she'd get what she wanted. In his own opinion he knew her much better than she thought, how else could he keep her coming back for more when she shuffled through men just as fast as he wooed women?

His mind caught a hitch, went blank for a single second as she shifted her hip against him, a movement that he hadn't expected. He blinked slowly as his desire insisted that he do something, his lips parting slightly. She rested back against him, and her eyes found his, which were half closed. He seemingly re-awoke, a smile flitting across his features for a half a second. Yes, she'd have no trouble getting what she wanted now. She smirked at him, and he returned it, sliding his hands from her thighs to her waist, his bottom teeth pressing against the uppers for a moment. A reminder to pace himself. This was still a dangerous game, but for different reasons now. Always for different reasons, it seemed. "I was always a sucker for pretty girls, I suppose." He said, a touch of teasing resting on top of the roguish purr of his voice.

His eyes flicked across her face, he was nearly holding his breath now, through the tension. But he still had a bit of play in him before he'd give up. He shifted ever so slightly so he could move closer to her, returning them to the nose to nose position of not a few moment ago. He blinked slowly again, contemplating her. He could feel his heart urging him onwards, or perhaps trying to push its way out of his chest and get on with the whole deal, since he seemed to be taking his sweet time. "Oh, but how ever will you forgive me, Princess? I've been simply terrible." He was slightly breathless, partly because of her proximity and partly because it cut some of the urgency trapped in his voice. His hands still rested on her waist as slowly tilted his head so his lips could brush hers. Then he pressed forward, all of a sudden, taking her mouth for a moment, almost painfully urgent in his movements, before he took control of himself again and lessened his claim over her mouth so she could reciprocate if she wished. She was the princess after all. And the sovereign queen over her mouth, God save anyone who tried to breach her territory.

Though she knew his body well enough, his physical limits, he wondered how well she could guess his mind. She had her own secrets, he tried not to make vocal assumptions about her, though he often tested her carefully with his little games, just to see what she would do. Like his mischevious little kiss to the corner of her mouth. Oh, she was jealous, not of Eve, but perhaps at the possibility that he wasn't even thinking of her at the moment? She wasn't the absolute priority in his life, just as he knew he wasn't hers, though it was the goal he made for any woman he pursued. Was that hers as well? Most likely, from what he knew of her and her actions. She was clever, mischevious, and that mysterious glint in her eye always spoke of something just beyond the surface, something that he wasn't allowed to know. But did he want to know? It depended on when one asked him. Right now he really didn't care what she was planning, he was too busy with his own plans, but in the quiet moments, sometimes he contemplated that sparkle in her deep eyes. And wondered just what that bode for him.

Ah, yes, she was definitely playing to his tune. Alexander enjoyed the way she gazed up at him, her eyes shining with the attraction she was feeling, especially as she grew flustered at his nearness. When he spoke she even arched her back, her delicate lips parted just a little as she stared back into his eyes, seemingly lost in them. But then, Alexander didn’t blame her. He was a practiced man in the art of seduction. Although, quite honestly he didn’t try all that hard; he usually didn’t have to with humans… or vampires, really, since they didn’t often dare defy their king. She, like most women, was a puppet in his hands, and…

Wait, ”no”? Alexander blinked only once before the surprise was wiped from his face once more. Well, that was rather surprising. When she didn’t move from him, however, the vampire king merely chuckled lightheartedly. “No?” he repeated, almost playfully, although his patience was waning. He wanted her home and he wanted his teeth in her. Now. And if she was going to be difficult about it, that was that, but really he was aiming not to terrorize her too much. After all, she was human, and her mind was fragile. And he certainly did not wish to rid her of that fire she seemed so fond of. No, that would indeed be a shame. After all, maybe that was what made her blood so delicious.

He knew the slightest disturbance would help her pull away from him, and ah, he could see the wish to. He could see the inner battle in her eyes, her mind fighting her body. Part of her, being a human, knew he was not good for her, yet her body was drawn to him. It was curious, was it not? So he continued, “well, Simone, I’m not leaving you again, so what we do is entirely up to you.” Then, however, before he could move to bring her closer, to manipulate her body just a little more, the human male returned, towel whipping onto the bar counter, and Alexander, feeling Simone starting to flee, let her, and instead looked after the male, his eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

The human would regret that disturbance. Alexander would make sure of it. No one, human or vampire, interrupted the vampire king. He would not accept it, in spite of this person not knowing who he was. It mattered not to the king. His pride demanded that he take the life of the insolent human, and he would. Soon. But right now, though he’d allowed the human woman a head start, he had to handle her and this situation with the utmost care. Of course the bartender would be dealt with accordingly in Alexander’s own time.

So he left, soon spotting Simone almost being run down by a semi truck, and he shook his head at her, smirking. Well, that slowed her at least. Not that she was fast by his standards, but if he started running he’d freak her out and make her literally run from him, and he couldn’t use his vampire speed here in the open. That was the only downside to earth really, safe for the lack of luxury compared to home. But that was to be expected.

He glances at Brigitte who had apparently decided to stay very in sight. He tucked a curved middle finger under her chin and looked down at her. “I do not require your presence, my sweet. Do transport yourself home.” He said no more to her, didn’t offer a smile or a glint in his eye. He was too busy with finding Simone and taking her home, and as such, as she grabbled to handle her shock, a curse emitting from her, Alexander was by her, taking one hand to gracefully swing her around before letting go of her, quickly settling his strong arm around her waist. He smiled wryly down at her, a primal intensity, yet still rather playful look in his eyes. “I very rarely take no for an answer, Simone.” He informed her quietly, as his eyes captured her knowingly, his allure locking her in her own body, and this time it was dirty play, considering he was using his abilities.

The human was stunned on the outside, unable to move herself, yet she could see, hear and feel everything. Then he brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear and raised an eyebrow looking down at her. “And I didn’t want to play dirty,” he then added, lifting her into his arms bridal style and began carrying her towards his car. He continued murmuring in her ear, trying to ignore the pulse in her neck, and the fact that he could hear and feel every little beat of her heart. “But you just had to run,” he explained, shaking his head almost as if he felt sorry for doing this to her, when really… who was he kidding? Alexander was quite satisfied.

Not waiting for a reply, since she could give none, he placed her in the passenger’s side in his care, adding a seat belt, just in case. He adjusted her body into a balanced position and then moved to get in himself. As he sat, starting up the car and pulling out of the lot casually, he glanced at her. Hm, perhaps he should start explaining some things already, since she would soon find out for herself exactly what he was anyway. So as he drove, having made a decision, the king began speaking.

“I am not some insane creep who wants to kidnap you,” he started, thinking that was probably where her mind was at. “In fact, only the kidnapping part is correct, though you may think my insane once I tell you this.” He paused briefly, as if waiting for her to say something, well knowing that she could not. “My full name is Alexander II Gabriel Kaiseren Chartés, my title is that of King. I am a vampire, and contrary to popular belief, I cannot survive on animal blood.” He glanced at her, smiling wryly. “So once in a while I will procure food for myself in this world. Although, I have to admit my food is usually brought to me. Not the other way around.”

His eyes fell briefly on her neck then before going back to the road. “You certainly gave me a run for my money, dear Simone. I applaud that, but do not deceive yourself to think you will ever get to leave me in such a way ever again. You are now my property, and you are to do as I command.” With those last words, Alexander pulled into the driveway in front of the grand mansion. He really didn’t live far from the club. The car doors locked with only him able to unlock them in his side before he turned her head gently, letting go of the mesmerizing effect, freeing her to control her body… somewhat, since she was not technically free. For now she was merely prisoner in his car.

And he was curious to witness her reaction. A couple of servants came running out, ready to serve him, but he merely shook his head once and they all scurried back inside.

---

---

"What gave you that impression?" was promptly ignored, except there was something to his voice… something different. Sapphire couldn’t figure it out, and honestly, right now she was too upset to care. If she wasn’t careful, this Sabine might even become more than a fleeting interest. She got this odd feeling in her gut when she was around him. That disturbed her quite a bit. Except it was so… ugh, intriguing. He was different from all other men she had ever met, and not only for the effect he had on her, but the way he would retort and throw her snide remarks back at her, sometimes even biting harder. It was an alluring game of ping-pong and it made her so attracted to him.

She had always liked intelligent, powerful men, and by the gods, Sabine was a symbol of both these traits. Couldn’t he at least have been a little easier to deal with though? No? Well, that was just her luck, was it not? And he was following her again. Okay, so maybe he hadn’t only come for his handkerchief and jacket. If he had, he wouldn’t still be following her, would he? Hm, maybe she had slapped him unjustly. That didn’t make the memory any less sweet, however.

"What if I wanted to make sure you were alright? The last time I saw you you weren't exactly in top shape, liebchen, standing at your doorstep alone in the middle of the night, fumbling for your keys with my coat draped over you." It then came, and Sapphire’s lips fell apart as her pace slowly decreased in speed and she finally turned around to face him, her heels bringing her just about tall enough to properly look him in the eyes. Had he seriously just said what she thought he had? He’d been there? He’d followed her in spite of her wish for him not to? In spite of his promise not to? He had… followed her quietly. Not because he wanted to taunt her, not because he’d wanted to irk her, but simply because he had cared enough to. Her features softened only slightly as she looked up at him, the thoughts passing through her mind.

She didn’t know what to do here. Suddenly a new side to him had been shown, and Sapphire found herself liking it. She couldn’t believe he’d actually followed her home. She knew she should probably be offended that he had not respected her wishes, and that her pride should be wounded. Syd would be so disappointed with her if she knew this, because instead Sapphire was warmed by it. A little. Only slightly. After all, she was not the easiest of women to warm, safe for when she was with her sisters, but it was there. Just… a touch of something that wasn’t pure and utter irritation or anger with him.

“You actually followed me home?” She asked him, her voice still hard, but somehow softer with the worst of her irritation more or less gone. She tilted her head a little to the side and slightly back to be able to look at him much easier, her eyes fiery as always, passion shining in them, but it was slightly different, considering her stopping and turning had brought the pair rather close. Her attraction towards this male had her wanting to reach out, but no, she stood her ground. Not that Sapphire was ever afraid of taking the first step, or tread on people’s boundaries, but ah, not with him… not just yet.

His last sentence made her pause as she pursed her lips slightly, curious as to what he meant, and what he thought he could have, but still a little weary of his cryptic way of phrasing everything. “What do you want from me, Sabine?” She asked on the slightest of sighs. Some inner part of her was hoping for something specific. She did not know what it was, nor could she make herself search deeper to find out, so instead she merely waited for his reply.

---

---

Daniel’s response to her words of him not being able to keep up his act for much longer, made her raise an eyebrow ever so slightly, the rest of her face remaining in the same mien as before. “’Pretty’?” She repeated the word he’d used to categorize her. “Is that what I am, Danny? Hm? ‘Pretty’?” Her lips seemed to move into a slightly disapproving mien as she let him know that was in no way a good way to speak of her. Alanya had never thought of herself as merely ‘pretty’. ‘Pretty’ were the humans they bred for her father, ‘pretty’ was the servant who seemed to stare lovingly every time Daniel passed her, and ‘pretty’ was a little girl. Alanya was not a human, she was not a little girl, and she was most certainly not a plain, lovesick servant. She was a princess, and she was most gorgeous. She knew that, he knew that. Everyone knew that. So why would he insult her so?

His tone may have been teasing, but that was no excuse. Hmpfh, ‘pretty’. How dare he. Her attention was drawn from that, however, as Daniel shifted to move closer to her. Oh, that was right, she’d teased his limit, hadn’t she? She hadn’t missed the way he’d stiffened once she’d flexed her hips, and she’d felt that sense of accomplishment, although she knew he would have given in much sooner if he had not been so set on playing hard to get, on making her work for it, and on keeping her interested. They were playing the same game, that much was obvious, but still they differed just a little. She knew that, but she wasn’t quite sure how much just yet. She would figure it out eventually, however.

Then he spoke, and she smiled wryly, letting her amber eyes scrutinize his face. She had won as it was; he was giving up. Slowly, granted, but it was there, and it would not take much more work on her side of things, which was good for him, because she really was quite offended at his previous words, and ah, Alanya was not a creature you wanted upset with you in any way. In fact, she was the last vampire you would ever want on your list of enemies. She was only still there because she did want him. Because he looked like a god of a vampire, and because the game was interesting. Otherwise she would have left by now.

She couldn’t quite stop herself from giving in to his kiss when his lips claimed hers, however. The urgency, and the passion he let out only briefly almost made her dizzy, but that was what she had wanted. Even if Daniel had not played back, she would not have let him have it until he was in this state. She liked her men desperate and hungry, and gods did he not give her what she wanted? Why did he do that when she was this upset with him?

She said nothing as he drew back. Instead, the dark princess moved her lower body closer to him, her arms dancing up and around his neck as she leaned back in for more, letting him know he was allowed to keep going. It was a thing he always did. Drew back before breaching any boundaries, clever man, making sure he did not displease her. After all, as much as Alanya behaved nothing like it with him, she was a princess, and she was not the most forgiving of types, just like his previous insult would not be forgotten. Never. It would remain with her for a very long time, until she decided what exactly to do with it. For now, however, she was a little more interested in his lips and his body. He felt good and she intended to enjoy it for a while… before she’d draw back.

---

---

Lena was tired, she was hurting, and she was slightly scared. Sabine could be home any moment now, and in her current state, he would notice. Could they not at least beat her up earlier in the day? They’d save themselves a lot of trouble too. She sighed softly, trying to ignore the pain as she made her way slowly to the kitchen where she knew she’d stored enough remedies for herself. Salves, herbs, bandages and the like were things she had acquired and intended to use. For now, however, she needed to sort of get there first. Her brown eyes flickered back and forth from behind to in front of her as she walked, paranoid to the point of obsession.

The girl wasn’t stupid you see. Merely very weak, being only a half demon, and a soft one at that. And ah, she never wanted to tell. He beatings only got worse every time his majesty got involved, and as much as she appreciated his own odd form of caring for her, it was simply not effective. Demons were not the types to be easily swayed. Her king should know that. He probably did too, but that did not keep him from reprimanding his guards whenever they harmed her and he heard of it. Much like that guard two years ago. He had been a very uncomfortable fellow, eager to cause her as much pain as possible. She had been torn. Down there. She did not know who would ever make a condom especially with spikes on the outside. Demons were indeed a twisted, sadistic race.

Sabine meant everything to her, and she would never lie, but she often hid things she did not find it necessary for him to know. That category was restricted to her abuse. Nothing more. She did not assume herself to have the expertise to otherwise know what Sabine would and would not need to know, in spite of her being by his side most of the time when he was home. When he was out, which he was most of the time, Lena was left to her own devices. She had her duties to do, but that was about it. Oh, god, she had not finished entirely yet today. She needed to wipe off the surfaces of his majesty’s tables. That would not please him.

She flinched at the thought as she made it into the kitchen. The lack of duties done would tell him everything she was trying so very hard to hide. She bit her lower lip as she began her search for the remedies she had stored. In that cupboard. She stretched, being the small individual that she was, and she finally managed to open it, and her wide eyes scanned the shelves. Wait… where was it? Hadn’t she put it on that second shelf? She blinked several times. Lena did not often forget, much to her regret, so this was highly unusual. She shook her head, searching to clear it at least a little. Then she sighed suddenly, closing the door of the cupboard once more. Now, where could they have put it?

The servant girl, blue on her skin in every place covered by her knee-length dress and cardigan, moved slowly, irritatingly so, considering she did not have the time to be slow. She really needed to finish up in Sabine’s quarters. She was worried she would not make it, never knowing when her king would return. But then, she had a feeling his walk today had had a purpose. There had just been something in his stride, so perhaps there was no need to fret and panic. She would make it. Yes, she would. Or not. She groaned quietly in frustration, thinking herself alone when the voice of a certain Balthazar Cross danced by her ears.

Oh no. No more people today. Only the king. She could not handle more people today. Lena took a deep breath turning carefully, facing him only as a sign of respect, although she kept her eyes on the ground, ever the perfect servant girl. She would only ever look Sabine in the eyes if he forced her to as well. It just felt wrong to her. Like she was claiming equal position, which she would never even dare to. Never. For once, Lena did not give the shape or form of Balthazar’s words or tone much thought. Whether he was genuine or taunting mattered not, because she could not have him here. She could not have the king’s adviser searching for ointment for her bruised skin.

No. Because that required a longer conversation during which she would have to explain to him what had happened, and he would probably tell Sabine, and then she’d be beat up once more tomorrow. So instead, Lena curtsied gracefully and respectfully, trying to keep the pain out of face and movement, but she did not quite succeed, as her body seemed bent on trying to kill her. Her face, however, remained inexpressive. “Although your lordship’s offer is much appreciated, I must decline, sir. I am in no need of such noble assistance.” Her voice and toe remained respectful, but quiet, and almost a little fearful. She never felt quite right around Balthazar.

Daniel Bowman

When she returned to him, wrapping her arms around his neck Daniel took that as a full go-ahead. He took her lips again, but not without some amusement. So she was sulking now, because he'd called her pretty? Of course, such a moniker didn't fully describe a princess, did it? She was offended by his understatement. He'd expected nothing less from her, she was a proud creature, as was her father. It was a trait she received honestly, not merely from being the child of a king. The only child of the king. Perhaps the spoiled child of the king. But Daniel wouldn't have it any other way. She was no modest mouse of a girl, while it was fun to draw such creatures from their shells on occasion, it was more interesting to do so with humans. Vampire women needed to be strong and fiery, require taming. That was always fun.

He let his hand slide around her waist to her lower back, holding her closer as he continued to inflict briefly upon her mouth the tension she'd created in him. Sort of like a very delicious revenge. He didn't linger long though, not with so many other interesting things to do other than try to steal her breath, after he'd sated himself slightly, as he knew true relief was farther away that he could pursue at this moment, in this location. He lifted one hand to her face, cupping her jaw as he stole his way to where her jaw met her throat next to her ear on the other side. He kissed her earlobe then chuckled softly against her skin.

"Did I offend you, my love?" he purred, the lilt of his voice teasing. He knew he was playing a very dangerous game, pushing her too far would be a very bad idea indeed, but wasn't he a risk taker? Always out for a new thrill. Almost ruthlessly so. Part of the reason he was so good at combat. "If not pretty, what does the Princess want me to call her? Your wish is my command." As he spoke his hand traced down her neck to her collarbone, following the bone across her shoulder towards the base of her throat almost aimlessly. He made a small hum of laughter again, teasing the skin below her ear as she'd done to him not too much earlier. "I'm but a lowly warrior, not nearly clever enough to formulate proper complements for lovely Princesses."

In some way, it was a stab at an apology, but masked by a teasing prod at the woman on his lap's haughtiness. He couldn't help himself. He turned his head again, returning to her mouth, pausing just before her lips so he could study her eyes. Precautionary measures were good sometimes. Like this moment. It was best to pause in case she took a fancy to smack him, because if he kissed her again when she was in a foul mood he might surface missing his tongue. He rather liked his tongue where it was, thanks, so he remained a quarter of an inch away. It also showed that he knew his teasing might not have been received well, because he utilized his caution sporadically, depending on how much amusement he could receive from the results. Or the consequences of the opposite action. A little bit of teasing was fine, he hadn't meant it dishonestly, but he was intelligent enough to see limits and stop before he hit them.

Though bodily harm bothered him much less on the battlefield, the harm the Princess could inflict upon him would be most...unpleasant. And of course, there was no hope for any kind of retaliation, because she was the Princess. Not that he would even ever think of such things, it was one of his jobs to make sure no harm came to either the King or his Daughter, though the King was much better at holding his own. Alanya still couldn't go outside for too long in the daytime without severe consequences because she was so young. He would never hurt her in any physical way if he could help it, that would be against the point of his position. He'd rather take an injury for her than let her suffer from it. He'd never been a man of sacrifice, he had no interest in it, but for the royal family he would give his life.

---

Sabine Marx

Sapphire halted slowly, and her mouth was gaping. Sabine slowed with her, stopping fully when she turned to face him. He quirked an eyebrow slightly as he examined her face. How exactly would she react? Usually he could guess how humans would react to things, it really wasn't all that hard, but she didn't look angry. Actually the edges of her features seemed to relax slightly, soften from the hard anger she'd carried before. Not much, but enough that he noticed it. Had that actually placated her? That was a bit surprising. More than a bit, actually, it was more surprising than her smacking him. She was a fiery creature. Her irritation was supposed to grow when he provided kindling, even if accidental, not fade.

Why would this make her less angry then? What was it? Was it just that he'd wanted to make sure she was alright? Perhaps so. Perhaps she thought it a compassionate gesture. Sabine opened his mouth to correct this misconception, no, he'd only wanted to make sure the work he'd done to keep her safe didn't go to naught, because that would be annoying. Sabine didn't like to do wasteful things, which was rather ironic, considering most of what he did in the human world was wander around in the city and frighten the occasional pedestrian. Before he could speak though, she did, as if she was confirming what he'd said. Almost as if she was a bit dumbfounded. She didn't seem one to usually just mindlessly paraphrase the words of another. "I did." He agreed, deciding that blunt honesty would be the best temporarily course of action. "I told you that I couldn't just leave you alone in such a state."

He couldn't decide what to think about her loss of fire. It wasn't much, but it meant that he wasn't doing what he wished to do. It meant that he wasn't on his game. Wasn't this what it was all about? Exchanging amusing words? Not this seriousness, that which was inherent in what the blonde human said next, with a faint sigh to her voice. Sabine examined her for a moment, she was very close, closer than he usually allowed people to stand. She was staring him in the eye too. Two things that would usually make him loose his patience with the perpetrator rather soon. But he was beginning to think that there was no other way for the woman to function, other than breaking all the unspoken rules that he'd crafted for the social setting. She'd smacked him, stared him in the eye, stood too close, argued with him, what boundary could she stride impudently through next? But it was almost as if it was expected of her, Sabine didn't think she would do anything different, and if it truly bothered him he could remove himself from the situation.

Could it be that he liked that she had no regards for what he believed to be proper conduct? That it was so utterly fascinating to see someone who didn't treat him like he was the king? That seemed foolish, but maybe it was true. But why? He'd have to explore the psychology behind that at a later date, however, because Sapphire was still staring at him, waiting for an answer. He responded with the first thing that came to mind. "I don't know." He did not like the honesty of that statement, however, it needed to be amended. "Most likely I'm just bored and you are entertaining." He infused his voice with as much disinterest as he could. If she'd though he cared at all about her as a person she could think again, because he most certainly did not. There was no way. He was a daemon. The most powerful daemon, the king. And she was but a lowly human woman who didn't know how to keep her tongue to herself. She was merely a small piece of entertainment, fit for a bit of leisurely talk but nothing more. Of course. There was no way she could be anything more.

The tall male paused for a moment, his green eyes again studying her face. "What do you think I want from you?" He returned after a moment, lifting an eyebrow. He was rather curious. Perhaps he did want something, but it was below the conscious level and he'd been exhibiting it without noticing. Perhaps she'd picked up on it. If he could just figure out why he was here, why he'd gone all this way, because the more he thought about it the more this whole mess didn't really make any sense at all. He returned to that sensation of hesitation he'd been experiencing just before he went off to find Sapphire. What really was the point of all this? And why couldn't he just walk away now? For a moment Sabine wished he could un-contemplate all the notions he'd just considered and return to two years ago and just enjoy playing with the blonde, winding her up and watching her tick.

It didn’t take long for the fiery redhead next to him to start speaking up, ah, but her words were accompanied by a faint buzzing sound. It struck him a little odd, but he son figured it had to be a text message. Well, that meant he’d have to rid himself of such a device, did it not? He made a mental note to not leave her alone until he had done so. He said nothing, except he let out a lighthearted chuckle when she moved towards him, her hands placed on his thighs. He wondered briefly what she was playing at, as he finally said, “ah, no, dear. I won’t be asking.” She was an entertaining human, he’d give her that, and he liked her spark, but she was rather delusional when it came to her choice in this situation. Of course, he thought to himself, she did not yet believe him to be a vampire. Not that he had expected her to.

As he spoke, the redhead straddled him and Alexander merely quirked an eyebrow, aware that she was playing at something. He just didn’t yet know exactly what. His green eyes watched her silently then, no buying this little act she was trying to sell. It was a faint attempt in his eyes and he saw through it so easily. Oh, he was attracted to him alright; her body craved him well enough, but that was not the reason she was suddenly so close. Ah, no, this had to do with a little plan. One he was sure to find out soon enough.

He chuckled when she noted he’d only had to ask, and he was about to reply when she flexed her hips. He paused, not because of the movement or any particular reaction on his part… but because her phone seemed to dial. The tone rang out in the car, and even slightly distracted by this, Alexander’s one hand automatically flew up to grasp her wrist when she tried to take a swipe at his face, effectively stopping the strike before it hit home, his vampire speed easily overpowering her human one. Simultaneously, Alexander’s other held her phone after a brief retrieval from her pocket. Immediately he clenched his hand, effectively crushing the device, cutting it off.

And she had the nerve to break the window of his car! Every other strike she’d made at him had been shrugged off. Honestly he’d hardly felt it, but he did very much notice the noise of the glass breaking and he raised both eyebrows as he suddenly, without warning, let the pieces of technology fall to the bottom of the car, both of his hands now moving to hold her wrists. He forced her arms behind her, gathering them with only one of his. He held onto her firmly but gently, surprisingly. He did not particularly wish to break her wrist… well, not right now.

Finally, completely calm, although most would have been surprised or a little riled up, the vampire king forced the redheaded human back against the steering wheel of the car, a slight smirk on his lips as he calmly said “You broke my car.” His eyes were intense, however, as he looked at her, a hunger burning deep within him. She had cut her shoulder by trying to break the glass, which really wasn’t the best thing to do around a hungry vampire. The scent of her blood out in the open was his undoing. He had to have her now. Besides, he played the consequences out in his mind, and if how she had reacted during his first time of feeding on her, was anything to go by, she would be more than a little dazed, and most likely much easier to deal with once he had taken her blood, and now only for the tiring effects of it.

Oh no, the reason was first and foremost that she would be rather riled up. For some reason the curious human had quite enjoyed his bite last time. He could see it in her eyes during, and he was certain that had she been able to, she would have rubbed herself against him, moaning in bliss. Afterwards she’d seemed, well… pleasured. As if he had just made her climax several times in a row. He couldn’t help but like the idea of trying it again, while she was actually able to respond properly. That, for some reason, excited him just as much as the taste of her blood right now. This was rather odd. Blood had always come way before sexual urges.

He liked to combine them, but it made him all the more ruthless, and he’d found that the mixture of sex and blood made him rather prone to more carnal behavior and this always resulted in the death of the human woman. Of course they always died with smiles on their faces, pleasure in their eyes, but alas… they were not meant to keep living, it seemed. He did not wish to take Simone to bed for this simple reason; if she died, he would never be able to drink from her again, and he wasn’t entirely sure Nebbs could properly replicate the human’s taste.

The king had paid the human woman no mind, even as she fought against him and cursed him. He paid no attention, but merely looked into her furious eyes. Then suddenly, a taunting smile began playing at his lips and his eyes became all the more heated. “I assure you I am quite healthy,” he finally said, teasing her. He knew exactly what she’d meant, but that didn’t mean he’d reply to her as such. “And yes, Simone, all humans can be owned.” As he spoke those words, Alexander leaned in closer; his eyes closing as his lips gently traced the soft, sensitive skin of her smooth, wildly pulsating neck. As he did, his free hand moved to cup the other side of her face, seeking to steady her and keep her in place; he couldn’t have her thrashing wildly. Yes, she did indeed smell heavenly. She was a drug, she was.

His long, thin and deadly sharp fangs slid out as he opened his eyes, leaning back to let her see exactly what he was. Then he grinned, only improving her view before he with incredible speed dug those porcelain fangs into the neck he had so desired for so long. He groaned in bliss against her neck, lids sliding over green, heaventurned eyes. His tongue lapped furiously at the blood exiting her beautiful throat. He had dreamed of this since he had first tasted her, and finally he had her. He couldn’t believe he’d actually been lucky enough to find her again. The taste of her blood was like godly ambrosia, and he feared his first taste had gotten him quite addicted to the taste. His tongue had never rejoiced as it did this moment, like it was seeing a long lost lover.

---

---

As Balthazar replied, Lena said nothing. She did not know why he had even bothered offering his assistance and part of her did not wish to know. She had enough problems to deal with on a daily basis, and to add the royal adviser into that pile would be more than a little bothersome. The demon king’s personal servant was a timid, sweet creature, and although she did much to remain out of sight, trouble always seemed almost to seek her out particularly. Like right now with Balthaar. Lena wondered at the reasons why he would possibly want to help her. She had been around long enough to know that Balthazar’s silver tongue and gifts of manipulation had benefited no others than himself, and this, above all, made her wary.

He did, however, seem finished with her, and so Lena kept standing there, practically feeling time go by. She was in a hurry, but apparently the adviser was not, and so she was forced to remain there, doing nothing. Why did he have to interrupt her search in such a way? Not that she expected to find her remedies anymore. If they were not in the kitchen, they were not available. She would have gone to Merry, but the other half demon had not accompanied the king on this trip to earth. Besides, she would most likely tell Sabine if she suspected anything.

See, Merry wasn’t quite the sort Lena was. In fact, the older Halfling was mostly respected by their kin, even the king held her in high regard. She was just… that kind of woman. Lena had often wished to have that same strength in her attitude, the same stature so demanding of respect that even the king had to recognize it. Lena adored Merry, and oftentimes it felt like she was the only one she could properly talk to, but Merry’s views on Lena’s troubles was much different than her own. The other Halfling felt that Sabine should know every time, so that he might be able to ultimately stop it. Lena dared not hope for such a future.

She frowned very slightly, but nodded once when Balthazar asked her whether she agreed that the king should be served the best way possible. She was hesitant though. Where was this leading? She almost help her breath as she waited for him to continue. Then, however, he commented the state she was in, and Lena straightened herself, as if to say “I’m fine,” but she kept her eyes down and her mouth shut. Her body language said all she needed it to, however, even if Balthazar would not believe her.

His following offer, however, surprised her and she quickly glanced up at him suspiciously. What was he playing at? What did he want from him? What were the conditions of this rather generous and very spot-on offer? Oh, here it comes she quickly thought to herself as Balthazar continued speaking, this time of the ‘but’ she had expected. Only once the adviser had finished speaking, did Lena start thinking of what he had actually said, quietly structuring it in her mind, picking out bits and pieces she did not feel quite right with.

Then, finally, she spoke, her tone quiet, but not weak. “If I may be excused to note so, my lord, first you, sire, tell me that what I say will be confidential, correct? Except then you speak of merely not giving it away for free. If my lord will allow me to add something, might I suggest that this confidentiality will stretch beyond this and in fact also be fully recognized in the event of you being offered payment for the rephrasing or retelling of my words, my lord?” She was honestly feeling more than a little awkward standing there, discussing this highly unusual agreement. Lena had not even contemplated whether or not to take it, because honestly she knew she needed it. She got hurt too often not to have remedies available.

More so, she hated that she needed to make this agreement in the first place. She couldn’t quite see why anyone would have moved her things. But then, she was an idiot for not merely keeping them in her room in the king’s wing. That didn’t mean she intended to be detailed in her replies when he asked her. In fact, she was already perfectly aware of what she would answer to this first question of his. It was painfully obvious that, like many others, the adviser was underestimating her.

---

---

Alanya let her body enjoy the delicious, tingling sensation as Daniel pulled her closer, his lips teasing hers. She didn’t mind at all, actually. She loved to let tension build. Things always ended up all the better in the end, ah, she did very much appreciate pleasure in its purest form. Her eyes slid closed when those snooping lips of his found her neck… that spot just beneath her ear. Her nails teased the nape of his neck as he hands slid into his dark hair, letting him know she did indeed enjoy his advances. Her breath was slow, yet controlled, her lips parted slightly, almost as if ready for the next kiss… the next teasing touch.

She bit down on her lower lip, a quiet “mmm” escaping her when his breath tickled that sweet spot, his chuckle sending bolts of lightning through her. She half opened her eyes, the half lidded look of pleasure in her amber eyes, almost scolding. She was a rather passionate girl, and she was young enough to still experience pleasure very intensely, so Daniel’s careful seduction was not lost on her. She took a deep breath, however, brought out of her haven of pleasure when he spoke. She opened her eyes fully, pulling back from the hand he’d used to tease her skin, now positioned at the base of her throat, but as she pulled back, she also removed her hands from his, and used one to clasp his wrist and confiscate that hand, placing it on the side of the chair.

Her eyes, though still passionate, had turned irritated. It was certainly a good thing that he’d paused before kissing her again, because she had very suddenly lost the feel for it. She did not move from him entirely, wanting to at least give him the option to actually correct the massive mistake he had just made. She wanted Daniel, but she would take no more from him than anyone else, and she suspected her knew it, considering the way he’d paused, reading her eyes before going in for another kiss. She said nothing, her own arms moved from passionately embracing him, to resting on his stomach, keeping him at a distance. She didn’t like this.

She didn’t like the way he spoke to her as though he was allowed to purposely offend her. She might be close to him, she might like his company, and she might very well care for him in her own twisted way, but that certainly did not allow the male to deliberately irk her. Alanya had her limits in that regard, being a very proud princess, and he had just crossed several. People who did so had a tendency to disappear rather suddenly. That, or they were publicly humiliated. It depended on the person and the crime. Daniel, as it was, would most likely lose both arms and be stripped of his position and possessions.

Well, if he kept this up, anyway. She simply would not accept it. She refused to. And Alanya always got her way. It had been like this since the day she was born, and by the gods, she intended for things to keep going in that direction. She raised both eyebrows at him, her eyes burning into him. “Do not play that game with me, Captain Bowman.” She said, her voice authoritative and slightly warning in spite of her more compromising position. For some reason, it did not matter how she was seated, only that she spoke as the heir to the vampire throne; the princess she truly was. “You have exactly ten seconds to remedy this.” She then concluded, looking at him expectantly. The time limit would certainly put a stop to the game. He was trying to turn his insult into a joke, instead of merely apologizing. He needed to know it was unacceptable, that was all.

---

---

Sapphire watched the tall blonde male before her with the utmost vigilance she could muster. The was that… thing… beneath the surface again, flaring up every once in a while. Some level of something he did not wish to recognize perhaps, or maybe he just didn’t like to utter the words to describe it. Whatever it was, it was intriguing, like uncovering a mystery, or completing a very complicated puzzle. Yes, that was what he was: puzzling. Perhaps he thought the same of her then? Found her interesting? Well, it was possible, was it not?

Oh, she had no actual clue. It all just felt odd and confusing, hard to focus on properly because she honestly did not wish to. Perhaps she was afraid of what she’d find in the bottom of her own mind, or his, for that matter, if she thought about this too much. Sabine was looking back at her, having gone quiet after she’d asked him her last question, green meeting blue, because the blonde woman did not waver for a second. She would not avert her gaze, because oftentimes that seemed to be what he wanted and expected her to do. Besides, in spite of all the reason she should fear him, she did not. Not for a second. She had seen him fight, beating up several rather well-built young men like it was nothing, he watched her with an unnerving intensity, he was stalking her… yet she did not fear him. Not even a little.

And she couldn’t explain why. Not even to herself in her mind. She was as puzzled as any other would be as to why she was standing there, insanely talking to a man she had, perhaps even more insanely, craved and missed for two years. It pissed her off like nothing else, which was probably why she seemed to be such a time bomb around him. Why was he so quiet though? It was taking him forever to answer, and the young woman was starting to grow a little nervous, but she managed to keep it off of his face, defiantly staring back at him with that fire in her eyes, even if it seemed like he’d left his to go think.

Then, finally he spoke, and Sapphire quirked her head just slightly, watching him, reading him, trying to figure out what it was she could just about glance under that controlled, calm surface. He didn’t know? Okay, that sounded honest enough. Somewhat, anyways, because she didn’t know what she wanted from him either. Then again, she had not claimed to him that she needed anything at all. He had to her, so she supposed he should be somewhat aware, should he not? Ah well, his next words caused her to raise a single eyebrow just a little, scrutinizing the statement. Ah, so she was merely amusing, was she? She didn’t believe it. She wasn’t sure why, but it was… something in his eyes. Perhaps the same doubt and confusion she was feeling.

That would make sense in some ways. It seemed to her like he was trying to cover up the slightest sign of some sort of care for her she had spotted previously. She couldn’t help smiling wryly, dryly amused by that concept. Mostly because it sounded so much like something she would do herself. They weren’t really that different, but perhaps that was the exact problem? His final question, as he looked to search her face, however, made her blink a couple of times, suddenly thoughtful in a much different way. What did she think he wanted from her? She didn’t actually know. How could she possibly? He didn’t give off a lot of vibes. She sighed let out a small gust of air, shrugging.

“Honestly, I think you’re just as confused as I am, but you’re not quite used to admitting such things,” She shot honestly. “My guess is that the only reason you don’t know what you want from me, is because you don’t want to admit it to yourself. What that is or why you’re doing it, I do not know. I’m not certain I want to know.” Then she paused, pursing her lips slightly, not caring one bit that she was being painfully honest. So she offered him a wry smile and continued, “but I do believe there’s more to it than my being amusing, and I reckon that so do you.”

Daniel Bowman

Oh dear. It seemed the Princess was not happy with him. But that was all part of the fun, wasn't it? Stepping out and leaning over the precise, seeing just how far he could stretch before falling. And apologies weren't altogether too horrible to craft either. He was a shameless man, he did what he had to do. Even if that did mean humbling himself on occasion. Though ten seconds wasn't a very long time. he'd have to start out strong. She was leaned away from him so he leaned back against the chair as well, relaxing as he gazed at her, he paused for a moment, lips parted slightly, as if contemplating what to say next.

"My Princess," he said, his voice low with just a touch of theatrical grief as he lifted one of her hands from where it rested on his stomach and brought it to his lips, bowing his face over it. "I apologize for the offense my words have caused you," as he spoke he paused intermittently to contemplate her hand with his lips. "and wish for you to know that the most beautiful creature in all of existence did not deserve the jests I put upon her, and I deserve whatever punishment you wish to inflict upon me." Daniel looked up, his cool blue eyes wide with his earnest entreaty. He couldn't help his penchant for the dramatic though, even if he wished to, though that was not the case. He thought it was just as much fun to make his apologies as it was to tease the beautiful princess and he was going to enjoy himself as much as he could.

Then he flipped her hand over and distracted himself for a moment by kissing the pad of each of her finger's then brushing his lips across the center of her palm before looking up again, his eyes heavily lidded and the faintest of smiles on his face. "Though, I do not think I would mind much, if you wished to kill me. I can think of no better death than to have my heart ripped out by the fairest Valkyrie I could ever imagine. It would be simply delicious." He sighed and closed his eyes briefly as if the mere thought of it caused him pleasure.

Daniel often refereed to Alanya as a Valkyrie, as he was enraptured by that section of one of the human religions he'd explored briefly. He'd found it because of his interest in Berserkers, because he was hoping he might be able to train some of the more brutish soldiers to fall into such a state and increase the sheer power of their forces to perhaps match that of the Lykaes, which would be very advantageous. Then he discovered the Valkyries, which were supposed to take the souls of the fallen warriors back to their mystical home in the sky or whatever. Daniel mostly just liked the thought of the sexy warrior goddesses patrolling the battlefields. Alanya reminded him of them because of the way she wielded her power as well as her stunning features.

"Was that more than ten seconds?" He asked, releasing her hand and laying back down over the other on his torso before resting his own arms on the rests of his seat. He leaned his head back against the back of the chair, his eyes lazy. "I do hope it was satisfactory," he smiled faintly at her as he examined her from the side of his eyes due to the three quarters profile he was currently presenting her.

"But you know, my love, I mean nothing of it, the teasing. But we both know you'd get bored if I didn't keep you entertained, and I don't know what I'd do without your most enchanting company. You do need a change from the normal puppies that follow you around, I can only imagine how tiresome those glossy eyed lads can become for such lovely princess." His voice was more conversational now, though he still looked as if on the verge of falling asleep. "I am genuinely sorry if my attempts to keep you entertained have failed, I shall try my best to do a better job in the future, my Darling." He offered mischevious grin, and a wink and he came alive again, sitting up and examining her face.

His lips parted slightly again as he watched her face, awaiting either a positive or negative reaction, showing his teeth faintly as the grin was still partly curved across his features. To be honest, he rather hoped that it was a positive reaction, but there was nothing he could do otherwise. Though, mostly because he was still in a bit of a state, and he wished to continue kissing her. Quite a bit, actually. He was having a little trouble keeping his eyes off her lips and on her eyes as time wore on. Shameless, Daniel was, and shameless he'd always be. He simply could not help it.

Sabine Marx

Sabine swallowed a slight frown at her blunt words. So she thought she had him figured out, did she? He paid no regard to the fact that he'd actually asked her to tell him what she though, that had no standing now, of course. "I see." He stated politely. "Those are interesting points. Too bad you are incorrect." He lifting his chin haughtily, casting his eyes just above the horizon, where the sun was melting among the buildings. it was growing late. He wished to return home before dark fully took over, he still needed to manage the underlings back at the manor, and he'd spent the whole day out. Not that he doubted that those back home could handle themselves, Balthazar was a responsible daemon towards those deserving of his respect, and Sabine had no doubts that he could handle himself at least well enough that anarchy would not befall the kingdom in the over twelve hours he'd been out so far.

"it's growing late." He stated shifting the topic to something a little more harmless and less touchy. "If you do not stir yourself we won't make it home before nightfall." He fully intended to escort her home, this time he would accept no less and he would not concede in the slightest, especially after her last bit of commentary in speculation of the inner workings of his mind. Which was entirely untrue. He was not confused about all this, and she was amusing, so her denial and further conjectures were obviously false. He knew exactly what he was doing. Okay, maybe he didn't, but she had no right to speak to him that way. None at all. And how could she know anything about him anyway? Sabine prided himself in being generally unreadable and cold past whatever demeanor he chose to affix to his exterior on a given day.

He fished in his pocket for the time and flipped it open, glancing at it for little more than a second before slipping it back into the pocket. It told him nothing he could not gather from the sky and the sun, but it was a habit of his. "Should I not return within the hour I'll be off schedule and face distasteful curiosity from the household." Well, more curiosity than normal. It was true, to an extend though, if he did not return within a reasonable time the lowers would know something was different, and they could be so annoying when they were curious. He had no wish to discuss this with anyone, or even entertain the idea that anyone was speculating as to his activities today. he had not divulged to anyone, not even Lena, where he was going, and he'd told no one about Sapphire. Why should he? It was none of their business. This was his own game and he wished to play it without their silent scrutiny.

"Well, go on then, I would guess you know how to return to your home better than I." He made a small dismissive gesture with his hand, intent to shoo her onwards to he could continue following her and they could return to some semblance of normal banter. He really did not like her invasive questions, and the farther they got from that topic the better. If she was not willing to move, however, he was quite sure he could find his way back to her house on his own, he knew the city like the back of his hand and he'd check street names as he'd followed her home in the middle of the night two years ago. He did not wish to show that he knew such things, however, because that would be a poor move, similar to his letting out that he'd followed her home in the first place which had resulted in this bit of uncomfortable conversation. And there was no chance he was going back there again.

If he looked deeper into his own attentions he'd start to find things that weren't real, just things she'd said which were trapped in his mind now like caring and confusion. He was Sabine, he was intelligent, he was never confused about anything, and he cared for no one. At all. Not even Lena. Of course, he still took care of her, it was a responsibility that had been inherent since he found her among the staff, but to say he harbored any feelings for her was laughable, laudable, foolish. She was nothing more than another pawn of course. Right.

Right?

Oooh, so now he was denying it, hm? How could he when he had just now admitted to not being aware of what he wanted from her. She didn’t doubt herself in spite of this denial, mostly because it was incredibly obvious to her that he was feeling rather uncomfortable talking about it. A reaction like that usually meant she’d hit something he knew was right but didn’t really want to admit to. Curious, wasn’t it? The way he raised his chin proudly made her snort, a show of dry humor. Really? He was going to try to make her feel like he was beyond her intellect?

To her it seemed as if he refused her evaluation of his inner workings simply because he could not admit to it, and as such, it was much easier to attempt to raise himself above her. Too bad it wasn’t working. She wasn’t played that easily, and fortunately for Sapphire she was a very confident woman. It took one hell of a lot to make her feel small, and as such, she merely quirked an eyebrow, giving him a skeptical once over. “Am I, now?” She then hummed, a dry smile playing at her lips, clearly letting him know two simple things: 1) she didn’t believe him for a second, and 2) she found his attempt to degrade her rather amusing.

Her anger had evaporated, because honestly she was far too amused right now. It was funny, really, last time they had met, Sapphire had been certain he was only hanging around her because he liked to bother her, but during the past two years, Sapphire had grown older of mind as well as body, and it seemed she saw more in him now. There was more to this man, and to them, than he let on. She didn’t know what was going on, and she wasn’t sure she wanted to, but it was a little funny that he was trying to hard to deny it, yet he kept coming back. This was the third time they’d “bumped into each other”, and she’d not been the instigator a single time. That told her plenty, whether he wanted to admit to it or not.

Then he, completely turning to another subject, spoke again, "it's growing late." When Sapphire merely pursed her lips at him, waiting for more to follow, he continued "If you do not stir yourself we won't make it home before nightfall." At this, the blonde woman laughed, shaking her head, “We?” She asked him, amused, “Who says I’m going home?” In truth, Sapphire wasn’t at all planning on going home. She’d only started walking to get away from him, without any real direction. She’d most likely pop into a few bars, give Simone a call to see if her older sister would like to join her perhaps. He responded by pulling out a clock, checking it before speaking. She remained quiet, still sort of amused with him. What was he playing at here?

"Should I not return within the hour I'll be off schedule and face distasteful curiosity from the household." He then finally said, and she smirked at him, raising both eyebrows. Household? Interesting. Why did he want her to know that? Was he trying to prove to her that he was rich and therefore better than her? Hmmm. It didn’t take her long to shoot back a reply. “I don’t see how that’s my problem.” She considered that little piece of knowledge from him completely pointless. She didn’t give a shit whether he had stuff to do. He wasn’t the boss of her, and she’d do as the damn well pleased.

Her lips fell slightly apart when he basically shooed her on, more or less talking to her as if he expected her to “obey” him. Oh, that bit of bastard was back, was it? Well, she wasn’t falling in this time. No way. Nuh uh. This time, Sapphire was going to use that bit of awkwardness she’d spotted just before. Obviously that was why he had changed the subject, and why he was suddenly in such a hurry. The blonde smirked, stepping close to him, completely breaching any personal bubble he might have had as the tips of her fingers came to rest just below his chest. “Aw, honey, did I hit a nerve?” She asked, both taunting and tempting at the same time.

She was so close she had to lean her head back to look up at him, but somehow that didn’t bother her at all. She had the upper hand right now; who cared about height? Oh, she was done playing into his hand. It wasn’t that she was trying to seduce him in any way, but he struck her as the kind of person who’d feel even more awkward if she moved closer, so that’s what she did. He was too tense anyway. And maybe the proximity wasn’t exactly a bother to her. From what she could feel, although Sabine was slim, he was all muscles. Firmness; the body of a man who used it well. Then there was of course this matter of her odd attraction towards him in the first place.

---

---

Alanya watched her handsome captain coolly as he acted his way through a very overdone apology. That was not the way to go about it. She needed to be able to feel the sincerity, and until she did, she would continue to be cross with him. She wasn’t feeling it at all here. First he seemed amused, theatrically dramatizing every single word out of his mouth, kissing her hand as though he was a gentleman. Something they both knew he really was not. Not in any way. She was without real expression through it all, but she did let him finish in an attempt to be polite, even though she was not accepting this show for one second. It fact, it only served to piss her off further. Her certainly lived life dangerously.

Ah, but then he leaned back, asking her whether he had taken more than ten seconds, and then it came… the bored exterior. She narrowed her eyes at him, the amber depths glittering with her irritation as her lips thinned ever so slightly into a line. Alanya was vain, she was arrogant and she was honestly rather self-absorbed, but that did not mean she would take overdone apologies and compliments. “The most beautiful creature in all of existence”? Really? Anyone knew Alanya was merely a twisted reflection of her stunning mother. She did not appreciate dishonesty, nor did she acknowledge this kind of groveling and ass-kissing. If he could not be honest in his compliments, she would rather not have them.

She was about to speak, when he began talking of his teasing, and how he was only doing it to keep her entertained. In response, the princess pursed her lips, irritated. He was right, of course, but that excused nothing. And it certainly did not remove the sting of the many insults he had just slung her way. No one got away with that and Daniel was no exception. He’d learn that much very soon if she had her way. And in all honesty, she always did.

The brunette princess easily moved from Daniel as he straightened, seeming to finally become invested once more. So far, Alanya had not let a single word escape her perfectly formed lips, but rather expressed her mood through her facial features, letting hints slip. Hints he had obviously either ignored or been oblivious to. Her right leg swung to the same side as her left one and she easily moved into a standing position beside him, turning around to face him, amber eyes seemingly seeking to burn a hole through the captain. She’d had it with him for today. Her patience was unfortunately not at the level of her father’s. Then again, she was a woman, and she had to admit that women were generally maybe a little less patient than men. Well, that, and her father had a good 3 millenniums on her at least.

She had a feeling Daniel wasn’t quite grasping how pissed she was. Alanya looked him over slowly before straightening, her hands moving down her dress to even out any odd creases it had gotten through her strange bout of make-out with Daniel Bowman, which had unfortunately ended rather abruptly. She tilted her head slight to the side, contemplating him silently before finally saying, “I sincerely hope this brief moment of amusement on my expense was worth it, Captain.” She then turned around, walking out the door while her mind worked through it all, trying to figure out what kind of punishment exactly to exact on Daniel. She’d of course have to confer with her father first, but she’d become very good at getting what she wanted from him too. Then again, he’d never really sought to deny her the things she wanted.

---

---

The servant girl didn’t exactly like the circumstances she found herself being in. Balthazar was not an easy one to deal with, and she was quite certain he had more than one trick up his sleeve. It seemed as though he always had. He was not King Sabine’s leading adviser for nothing, and one did not come into that position easily. Not by a long shot. Keeping that in mind, Lena was wary of the man. She was a mere servant, yes, but she was intelligent enough to recognize that certain people were too difficult to deal with for her to get involved, which was why she had always stayed out of Balthazar’s way. Now, however, it seemed he was set on dragging her into whatever game he had in mind.

And he was very much playing a game with her. She figured he was bored. Over the years she’d come to discover the man grew bored easily, and when he did, someone usually found themselves the victim of one thing or another meant to briefly entertain the adviser. Of course Lena had never spoken of this observation, but she’d always been a rather vigilant little thing, and for a while about a century ago, she’d taken an interest in figuring out at least a little about the mysterious adviser. Quietly she’d taken to observing him whenever she had the chance, him and all the things which had a tendency to happen around him.

She was perfectly aware that she had no rights to demand anything, and she wasn’t really, because she very much figured he didn’t particularly mean to debouch her answers to anyone in particular, but she wanted to make sure he could not use the slight loophole… just in case. She wasn’t sure whether such a thing would be below him or not. She figured if it benefited him, it wouldn’t be, but then, aside from what she’d gathered about him over the years, she didn’t know the man. She doubted anyone actually did. He didn’t seem the type to needlessly reveal anything about himself, perhaps because that would betray his purpose in some way. Balthazar wasn’t easy to read, and a part of her guessed that was intentional.

She nodded once when he spoke to her, rephrasing their oral deal. Of course one could never really trust a deal not written, but she didn’t wish for it to be written either. To think who could find it… the king could find out somehow. And then… oh gods, he’d realize things were much worse than he knew of. She didn’t wish for him to know that. She really didn’t. He didn’t need more on his shoulders right now; it seemed he was plenty preoccupied. Lena might not know why his majesty was so distant, generally behaving oddly, but she did know it was big to him if he let it affect his behavior in such a way. Or, rather, it wouldn’t be obvious to anyone who didn’t spend a lot of time with him.

However, she didn’t have a lot of time right now. It was getting late and the king had been out for a long time. She finally bit down on her lower lip. If she answered his question, it meant the two of them had a deal. It meant she would be healed up well enough by the time the king came home, but it also meant she’d have this odd tie to Balthazar, a man she had avoided like a plague. This time back on earth was starting out badly. She didn’t have much of a choice, and so Lena sighed discreetly before glancing up at the adviser only briefly.

“I know very little of the king’s reasons for this trip to earth.” She told him, easily avoiding any detail in answering. Of course she knew of some more than that, considering the king and all, but she wasn’t going to let him know that. There was no need to when she could easily answer the adviser vaguely.

Sabine Marx

There was a most infuriating little smile on her face, but Sabine did hist best to ignore it. She could think whatever she liked, it had no standing with him or the truth. Obviously. And she was a stubborn creature, he knew it would take quite a bit to change her mind about anything, a trait she'd displayed from the first moment he'd seen her. "Well, if you do not wish to return home, then please do carry on to wherever it is you're going. If first impressions stand for anything, you're likely to fall into trouble if I leave you with night nearing, and that would not be a gentlemanly thing to do." His voice was cool. Her obvious amusement was very irritating, but he could handle himself. "And it would be very much your problem if something did happen, but I think I could go on without you, Blume."

She didn't like him shooing her, apparently, because her mouth fell a bit open. She recovered quickly, however, a smirk forming on her lips as she stepped forward until she was touching him, her fingers just below the curve of his ribcage. His eyes narrowed with displeasure. There were several reasons why he did not like people in his personal space, one of those being that he excelled more in ranged combat, and the nearer an enemy was the more difficult it would be to fight him, and the discomfort of that was near instinctual at this point in his life. The other was that she thought she was allowed to come near him without express permission, just as she'd saw fit to unabashedly stare at him. It was impertinence. And it was not something Sabine particularly enjoyed. He'd tolerated it so far, but his day was waning along with his patience, never mind that he'd initiated the whole thing.

He had to tilt his head down very far to continue looking at her face, and she looked rather foolish craning her head back so far in his opinion. Her words did nothing but aggravate him further, but he merely continued to examine her face silently, a near blank expression held on his face, save for his slightly narrowed eyes. He had to contemplate before acting. Just what was her purpose here? The smirk told him that she was taunting him, trying to goad him into a reaction. But of all things, why that? She was clever if she'd realized that such an action was what would bother him most, but otherwise she was merely lucky. It was probably just luck though, all things considering. She was only a human, after all. In his experience humans weren't overly bright.

Very slowly Sabine reached up and took her hand, removing it from his chest and guiding it of to one side, his hand twisted as to tilt her wrist back, not enough to hurt her, but enough to let her know he was not happy. His grip as well, did not have the intention to harm here, just prevent her from freeing her fingers until he finished letting her know that he was not happy.

With the same slow, deliberate movements he bent his head further, curving his back as well, to bridge the gap between their faces until he was nearly nose to nose with the blue eyed woman. His eyes were still fixed intently on hers when he spoke. "Let's keep out hands to ourselves, shall we, Miss Parker?" His voice was still cool and polite, and his face was still smoothed in an expression of vague disinterest. He then returned her hand to her side before releasing it, but he did not move away until he received a response.

Best case he would receive an apology, but that went above all expectations he held for Sapphire. She was not one to apologize, so he would not hold her to that, because he contained the same pride. But she would have to back down first, and he would take that as an apology in the stead of an actual one, so long as he drove his point home.

Surely it was a strange sight to any pedestrians walking past, the sphere of intensity around the tall male and the much shorter female. Perhaps it would have looked romantic, a deep look into each other's eyes, if not for the irritation sparking from Sabine. Though his face and voice were impassive, bored almost, his body language was displeased. He was so invested into what was going on that he wasn't regulating it as he usually did. He was all together much too tense, not nearly as languid nor as catlike as he usually was. But what could he do about that?

Daniel Bowman

Women could be so touchy. She slid off his lap, and Daniel moved to stand as well, but paused halfway in the gesture as she spoke. She was such a curious creature, with such a curious temper, wasn't she. He could do this though, he didn't know how, but things always worked out in the end, didn't they? As she turned and began to walk away he waited a beat before jumping up to follow her. He knew he had to, otherwise he'd be in deep trouble later. But what did she want from him? Honestly, sometimes the giggling airheads and the cowering humans were easier to deal with than this moody Princess. But she was fun when she was in a good state. Right now? Not so much.

The male strode to the door and used the frame to swing himself around, giving him a bit more momentum to work with so he could hurry himself in front of the Alanya, spreading his hands out in front of himself as if asking her to wait for just a second. "Princess," He said as if he was calling her, but his voice was much too soft to be any use in such a task, "please."

He paused for a second, tugging a hand through his hair and huffing a sigh. "Okay look, love, I'm an idiot. That's common knowledge. And you're obviously not an idiot, otherwise we wouldn't be here right now because you'd be too busy swooning to be angry with me." He paused for a moment, taking another breath. "I'm just a vampire. I don't know what you want from me. If I knew how to fix this I would. I do like you, Princess, and if you don't want my company I'm fine with that. I'm probably an insufferable prick. But could you just tell me what you want me to do to make you happy?" There was an urgency behind his words, as if they were coming from his mouth at a speed he could not control, just a little too fast, a bit too quick to be properly censored.

"You were a young thing when I became captain, not even half a century If I recall, but still more fiery than any soul I had ever met." He said after another second spent composing himself, a small, fond smile on his face. "I've always led the troops and issued orders with you in mind. I would rather die than let any harm befall my Princess, even though you are strong enough to fend for yourself, and that will never change, so long as I have the pleasure of serving you, Alanya." He paused for a moment, as if searching his mind, then leaned against the wall, running his hand through his hair and blowing out another sigh as if he was a deflating balloon. He'd never told her that before. He'd never actually been that serious for such a long time while talking to any woman, let alone Alanya. He was only ever that focused and serious when he was preparing for battle or surprising the guards with an inspection.

The male brought a hand to his face the laughed, a slightly strained sound. "Well, I got that off my chest. My face is probably all red though now, I bet. I do want you to know that I apologize for fucking things up. I don't ever mean to make you angry and I wish I was better at not angering you. You don't deserve my attitude." He paused for a moment, furrowing his brow slightly as if falling into deep though. He felt a bit drained in all honesty, and he didn't like that feeling. Kind of like he'd hollowed himself out. "Well, I won't keep you, my Princess. I think I might go scare the guard, they're probably all settled in now, just asking for it, don't you think." His hand had lowered slowly from his face, but he didn't move past that, and he mad no motion to push away from the wall. He just stood, weight mostly on the wall, staring at his hands, a slightly surprised expression on his still rosy features.

There were first times for everything, and that moment had to be the very fist time in the history of his life that Daniel had ever been so shocked at his own actions that he did not know what to say. He hoped it would never happen again.

Ah, sweetness, he was annoyed, was he not? She felt like giggling in joy, but refrained, merely looking up at him with a smirk on her face. He was such a poor little thing, wasn’t he? Oh so bothered by her merely being this close. She wondered how he’d react if she did more. Like, say, if she kissed his neck… nibbled on his ear lobe… tangled her slim fingers into his long hair. Okay, on second thought, maybe she should be contemplating something else entirely. Like, say, something that wouldn’t cause her to want to jump him then and there. Irritating little thing this attraction was. More irritating because it would not simply allow her to ignore it completely.

His eyes were slightly narrowed, a show of irritation, although she could tell he was trying hard to pretend as if he didn’t give two fucks either way. Men, such silly things. This one in particular, oh but this was fun… turning the cards around. Ah yes, he’d definitely enjoyed goading her, so now she’d damn well enjoy it the other way around, she would. Then, however, the tall male moved, ever so slowly taking her hand. He was not entirely gentle, but then, he wasn’t forcible enough to break anything, so Sapphire, curious to see what he’d do, let him do it, theatrically widening her eyes to feign innocence.

Of course there was there obvious spark of amusement in her eyes, but she didn’t mind him seeing through it. In fact, she wanted him to. For a second she wondered what was up with him tilting her wrist back the way he did. But then she realized… this was him silently telling him how much it bothered. Aw, well, poor thing, wasn’t he? He wasn’t scaring her, and she merely kept up the smirk, as if to say “that the best you can do?” but she remained quiet. He’d get it.

She only grinned further when he moved his face towards hers. Oh, he was simply asking for it now, wasn’t he? She was milking this one for all she could. This upper hand he’d unwillingly given her was not going to go to waste. No way. He’d been a prick. He deserved a bit of payback, although he obviously disagreed with her. Not that she particularly cared much for what he thought… in that context, anyway. Hey, wait, no… she didn’t care at all. He meant nothing, just like his opinions. Geez. Then, however, as Sapphire wondered if he was going to speak, he finally did, and she couldn’t help laughing softly at him, especially considering he hadn’t moved his face when her left go of her hand, so Sapphire folded her hands behind her back, looking up at him innocently.

“Fine. No hands,” she said teasingly, a mischievous grin on her lips. Mostly because no hands didn’t mean no touching, so she merely agreed to it and leaned in, her mouth barely brushing his before the tip of her nose ever so elegantly began tracing the cut of his jawbone to his neck, where her lips took over, dancing up the smooth, pale skin. Then she laughed softly against him. “See?” She added, referring to her not using her hands in the slightest. He really should’ve phrased it differently. Not that that would keep her from teasing him, but hey. Oh, and on another bright side: if she bothered him enough, he’d most likely leave her alone. She wanted that. She did. Really.

The blonde woman then added something she’d wanted to previously, whispering it into his hear, purely because it would make her breath tingle upon his skin. “And you know, I’ve managed for quite a while without you, lover. So how about you stop acting like I need you, and start admitting to yourself that there’s a reason you’re doing this. Obviously you don’t find me ‘amusing’ anymore, yet you’re still hanging around.” She gave a light chuckle at that before concluding, “I rest my case.”

---

---

When Daniel hurried in front of her, holding his arms out as if to stop her, she merely narrowed her eyes and kept walking. Until his words joined too, and she immediately paused, folding her hands in front of her in a most dignified manner. “Not in a patient mood, Daniel,” she told him, an unspoken warning in her voice. She was very, very far from, and most would not have dared step in front of her like he’d done when she was like this. Then again, Daniel would not have been in this situation if he hadn’t gambled in the first place. She was about to move around him when he finally said "Okay look, love, I'm an idiot. That's common knowledge. And you're obviously not an idiot, otherwise we wouldn't be here right now because you'd be too busy swooning to be angry with me."

She raised an eyebrow. Had he only just figured that out not? Regardless, it was something, and he was being sincere for once. “Then do not mistake me for one,” she noted, watching him as he continued speaking. Just a vampire, eh? Well, weren’t they all? And insufferable prick did describe him quite well, didn’t it? Of course, the pace of his words did not escape her either. He was a little too fast to be as deliberate as he would usually be, and it made him so much more believable. It seemed the good captain had decided to dance to her melody and actually show some sincerity for once. However, that last bit about him wanting her to tell him what would make her happy, had her smiling dryly. “Do you really care?” She countered, her voice skeptical.

His following reply surprised her quite a bit, and as he talked, Alanya listened, tilting her head slightly to the side, the anger in her amber depths replaced by thoughtfulness and just a touch of curiosity. His words were not what had her wondering the most, however… because his smile was. It was one of fondness, like he was recalling a happy memory. She had to say, it all surprised her quite a bit. Of course she knew Daniel was a loyal man, but the way he spoke made it seem as if it was due to more than just duty. Of course, it was Daniel, and he had a penchant for adding little things like that on purpose. At the same time, however, the pace along with the fact that he looked surprised with himself, had her wondering.

Curious man, he was. As he almost slumped against the wall, Alanya watched, pondering the many sides to him. How could anyone ever hope to figure that out entirely? Oh, she knew she was more aware of his inner working and goals than most others, but that did not mean she understood entirely. She wanted to, however. If for nothing else, then the conquest of it. The hand to his own face, and the awkward laugh, had her decided one thing: he had been absolutely sincere throughout this apology of his. That was really all she’d wanted from him; a sincere apology. Too bad she’d had to get angry for him to get it together.

They’d both been quiet for a while, when he suddenly said "Well, I got that off my chest. My face is probably all red though now, I bet. I do want you to know that I apologize for fucking things up. I don't ever mean to make you angry and I wish I was better at not angering you. You don't deserve my attitude." Alanya shook her head at him, a slight smile on her lips now. And just like that, her mood had changed. She was about to say something in reply when he spoke up again, speaking of the guards. He seemed so shocked by himself… perplexed… confused. So much so that she started to feel a little sorry for him. All this honesty at once couldn’t possibly be easy for him to manage.

And so, Alanya decided to give him something she was felt certain would get him back to normal. After all, she couldn’t have the captain of her father’s guard entirely disheveled. She said nothing as her feet took her to him. She stopped in front of him, her arms wrapping around his neck as she leaned in, kissing him just by the juncture of his lips. “You’re right,” she began, murmuring softly, “I don’t deserve your attitude, but I do accept your apology.” Then she laughed softly, “if only you’d been serious about it from the beginning.” With that, her lips finally met his, kissing him intensely, all of her attention seemingly going into that one kiss.

However, as she moved closer to him, wanting more proximity, the sound of her father had her drawing back, almost lazily turning her gaze towards him as he spoke. His words made her sigh. As always, king Alexander’s timing was impeccable.

---

---

Well, that was new, he thought to himself as he easily stepped aside, glancing at the smashing vase on the wall a bit to his side. He expressed nothing, his face completely void of any emotion or thought process. Instead he merely turned back to watch her, green eyes indifferent as to the mess she had just made, along with the fact that she’d actually just thrown a vase at him. Who did that? He shook his head at her then, silently making it known to her that he wasn’t entirely pleased, and that she would not benefit from such behavior. However, it was soon replaced by a shrug and a wry smile. “You need to learn that this will not be tolerated for long.” He told her casually, as if discussing the weather, yet something in his eyes made it clear that it was a threat.

However, before he got to saying or doing more, a servant girl delivered the news of his adviser being “not on the premises”, which frankly pissed the king off quite a bit. He showed no signs of having heard the female, however, because his eyes were still intensely on the redheaded little fireball. He wondered how long it was going to take for this one. It was a common pattern. Alexander didn’t do much to achieve it, but his human slaves more often than not, ended up begging him to touch them, wanting to join him in bed, even knowing of the consequences. It was beyond him why anyone would sacrifice life merely to enjoy one night with a man they hardly knew. Or course, though, he couldn’t blame them. After all, he was pretty irresistible, if he did say so himself.

Alexander sighed when Simone screamed for help and ran towards the door. Well, that sure as hell wasn’t going to do her any good. He merely turned to watch her, wondering what on earth would make her think she had a chance of escaping that way. Silly human. Hadn’t she realized yet that he and his people were, in fact, vampires? Did she know nothing of his race? Well, if she didn’t, he wasn’t so surprised she couldn’t quite grasp how superior his race was to hers. And well, any others too. Demons and Lykae alive were going to lose by the end of this war.

Well, here she went with it again, banging her shoulder into things. He didn’t let her actually do more than open the door, however, because he swiftly strode to her, putting an arm around her from behind, keeping her there in his grasp and in his home. Then he pulled her in, swinging up her legs so that he could carry her, not caring one bit about any struggles. He put her slowly on the bed before raising an eyebrow at her. “Next time you try that, it may be my guards who catch you and believe me; that’s something you want to avoid.” Then he straightened, aiming to leave her for a bit. He had some things to take care of. Like get his adviser and his personal servant home. Those two were going to drive him insane.

“I recommend you stay here. The servant will be told to procure you any meal you would like. You need to replenish the blood you lost.” With that, Alexander left her, his strides purposeful and firm as he walked out the room, closing and locking the door behind him. Then he gave the servant a look. “You’re to be at her disposal.” He ordered and though the servant looked rather nervous, she merely bowed her head and nodded “yes, your majesty.” Then he moved again. It didn’t take him long to find suitable guards, only stopping to look at the pair. “Make sure the human does not leave the room I put her in,” he merely said, leaving it up to them to figure out who and where and how.

Once more, the king was moving, and it certainly did not take him long to find the captain… with his daughter no less. He cleared his throat, making his presence known. “Captain Bowman,” he began clearly, drawing both of their attentions. “I would much appreciate it if you would go fetch Nebellia, along with Brigitte. Presently.” He wasn’t angry per se; he would just sometimes like to be spared the show.

Sabine Marx


She found the situation amusing did she? Her blue eyes were laughing and it was a curious sight. It wasn't often that Sabine saw happy eyes so close. And the innocent look. It was that moment that Sabine knew that he would not like whatever she did next. It was his responsibility at the moment to let her know that this did not please him in the slightest. Humans were supposed to shy away from him, flinch, back away from his quite anger. But Sapphire was not one for that. She never had been. It was no surprise, looking back on it, that she would not back down. Well, there were other ways of dealing with that.

Sabine did not have a chance to enact any of his other ways of dealing with the blonde, however, because she'd leaned forward. Too close. Much too close. His body tensed, but she merely ghosted her lips across his in a brief second. His jaw clenched as the very tip of her nose drew across his skin. It was impertinence, it was irritating, but yet all of a sudden he could feel her body just the barest of centimetres away, almost near enough that he could feel her heart beat as if every tiny movement she made stirred the air and reminded him of her proximity.

She whispered in his ear, it was some new piece of argument, but he was too busy dealing with his annoyance and some strange sense of arousal brought on by her nearness to really care just what she had to say. She was simply a human, she shouldn't do such things to him. He was just being foolish over this whole matter. This was some kind of test of his patience sent by the fates, and he would not lose to a human. He'd dealt well enough with the second of contact initiated with the smack, she hadn't been in control of herself then, but now he could tell by her mannerisms that she thought she had the upper hand in the situation.

"Sappire," he purred, turning his head slightly and dipping it so the side of his face was against hers and she'd be able to hear him but not see his face. He had not moved at all she'd done whatever nonsense she'd thought to do, but now he did with the same slow deliberate motions. He rested his hands between her waist and hips for a fleeting second, saying nothing, but then he shifted back to the middle of his feet, straightening and raising his head as he lifted her in the air. "I'd quite appreciate it if you abstained from touching me." he said in the same tone of voice, keeping her suspended in the air for a moment as if she was a doll before setting her down an arms length away.

He straightened again, releasing her and folding his arms over his chest. "I'll rephrase: I do not like being touched. Do not touch me." his voice was cool, but it was almost conversational. He wasn't terribly angry, just annoyed enough to rebuke her. "And you still do amuse me, kleine Mause, as you seem to be the only creature insane enough to actually attempt to goad me. It's a rather curious ailment. I do wonder how you keep yourself out of worse trouble with such a reckless attitude."

The tension of those moments where she had been so near lingered, though he'd removed her from his immediate presence. Though he did not want her to touch him, there was, in some closed part of him, a slight bit of regret. A little bit of regret and a wish that he could pull her nearer again or whisk her away, make her his in some way. He couldn't tell if it was merely base lust or something else. Lust did not linger, it was there and it was gone. But this, this had laid in wait, brought him back here like some kind of absurd magnetism. Maybe it really was fate and she a test. He didn't believe in such things though. He also didn't believe in daemon relationships with humans, though such links had spawned some decent beings, such as little Lena, but links between mortals and daemons didn't last. Mostly because the humans died so very quickly. And they were incompetent anyway.

Lust wasn't so terrible a thing, there were beautiful humans, Sapphire was certainly beautiful, but to bed a such a base being? Almost as bad as taking a Lykae.

But what about her side? What exactly had possessed her to do such a thing? If she'd wanted to irritate him there were quite a couple less risque things she could have done, none of them involving her face so very close to his. Were there more motives on her side than just to irritate him? Was she trying to court him or something? A small smirk curled on his face of its own accord from that thought. That would be quite amusing. Stupid humans.

---

Daniel Bowman


Daniel watched the princess as she moved closer, realizing that he had indeed saved his own ass when she wrapped her arms around his neck, an almost gentle look in her eye for a moment. His arms curled around her waist as she leaned up and kissed the side of his mouth. Well, that had worked. He didn't know how, he didn't know why, but he did know that he would need to take it apart and work it out so he could use it again, just in case. It must have been the note of sincerity in his voice. Which was a shame, because that was a difficult sound to create. He was good at such things, but there were some emotions that simply could not be duplicated. Sincerity, empathy, desire were all out of his reach. He couldn't be honest when he wasn't, he couldn't care when he didn't, and he could pretend to want something that he had no interest in. What was the point? There simply was no need to utilize such things.

The kiss was fulfilling, or at least, it had promises to be, especially as she began to draw closer still. His hand was lifting to cup the back of her neck when she moved back. He straightened immediately, turning his eyes to the King. The brusque style of the issued order let Daniel know that the King wanted none of it. He wasn't happy. And, since he'd just gotten out of trouble with the fairer of the two royals, it was probably best to leave presently, though he did so wish to stay, as things were growing ever so interesting with Alanya.

"I shall, my King." He said with a bow. He leaned over in a quick gesture and kissed the princess on the cheek in chaste farewell. Of course Nebellia would be out somewhere, getting into trouble, he thought as he started off down the hall at a swift clip, leaving the king and his daughter behind. He'd get the rest of his task from the servants, if there was any more information. Usually it was better not to ask the King questions. Especially if he was in any semblance of a foul mood. And if the king wished to send him to go fetch Nebellia, then there probably was trouble, and Daniel would have none of that. He was already in dangerous ground, considering his doings with Alanya, care had to be taken with his Majesty.

The only thing he could find out from the servants after a brief and slightly forceful examination was that Nebellia had taken one of the cars and disappeared a short while before the King arrived back home. Brigitte had been with the King, as usual, wherever it was his Majesty had gone, but she'd not come back home with him. It was safe to assume for the moment that wherever they were they were together. Hopefully. Otherwise it would take twice as long to find them. And if they were together, perhaps the little ghost child's pragmatism would counter the taller vampire's...insanity.

The question of what vehicle to take was a different question entirely. His first choice would be to run, he loved running and it would be easiest to find them on foot, not constrained to the edges of the road, but they were in the human world and that was not an option. And there was a chance that Nebellia would try to escape otherwise, distracted by one thing or another. He didn’t not know what state she would be in, but if she was out it was probably a frenzied one. Poor Bridgette, if she was stuck with the King’s adviser she was probably suffering. He didn’t want to take a car though, that was not only boring, but very contracting. What other choice did he have though? Nothing else would contain Nebellia.

Daniel took the very same car Nebellia had not too long ago, as the servant had fled back home with it after completing the order Bridgette had issued her, assuming that Bridgette would provide transportation to bring the royal adviser home. Daniel didn’t know that, however, or he would have hunted down that particular servant, though she’d been hiding. Servants always seemed to need a bit of time to recuperate after an encounter with the caramel skinned vampire. He did not require an servant to chauffeur him though, a servant would just muck things up.

The captain of the Guard’s plan of attack in searching for his targets was haphazard. First he’d do a quick run through of the darkening city, just searching and hoping to get lucky. If he didn’t then he’d have to get out and search by foot and ask some humans whether they had seen Nebellia or Bridgette. Both of them were rather distinctive looking, so unless they’d thralled every single person they’d run across there was a good chance someone would have seen them. Hopefully.

Daniel drove through the most populated bits of the town, those heavy in nightlife, first. It seemed most reasonable that the court scientist would come for new blood, and a place rich in variety would be a very logical place to look. He did not notice the star scratched on the side of a place by the name of Blue’s Pub the first time around, however, because he’d been too busy noticing that there didn’t seem to be as many people on that street as there should have been. But on his second trip around, he’d decided that the street was a bit sketchy, his eyes picked up the scratched on star by the door. It seemed deliberate and it was worth a shot.

When he was finished parking the car in the most inconvenient way he could, for he refused to park across the street, Daniel emerged and stretched lazily before strolling over to the front of the bar and examining the scratched on sign. There was an arrow pointing at the alleyway next to the establishment. Well, it was worth a shot, wasn’t it? And if it turned out to not be them, well, he could handle whoever they were and continue on his quest.

When he entered the mouth of the alleyway he could distinctly smell Nebellia, her fragrance was one of chemicals and madness that carried in the air rather well. That meant that the star had to belong to Bridgette and they were indeed together. “Excuse me ladies,” He called out, leaning against the wall, a good natured smirk across his lips, “but I believe your ride home has arrived. I would make haste; the King has summoned your presences.”

Alexander chose to ignore the dissatisfied look on his daughter’s face, instead focusing the intense dominance of his gaze on the captain. They had been wrapped in each other’s arms until the second Daniel realized his king was in their presence. Alanya had paid him no such mind. Of course, though, he wasn’t too surprised with that. Unlike the captain, Alanya knew she was safe with him. He couldn’t exactly replace his beloved daughter. Daniel Bowman, however, was very replaceable.

Not that Alexander would rid himself of him merely for touching his daughter. No, Alexander was much too used to seeing his daughter with men, so that was not the problem. In fact, the king’s worries stemmed from the usual nature of Daniel’s “affections” towards women. Although he knew Alanya was a capable woman, who would not easily fall prey to such things, he was a father, and so he could not quite quell that little voice in the back of his head. No matter how old she grew, he feared it would never go away entirely.

And so, the expression on the king’s face was one of cold displeasure and disapproval, his eyes boring into the captain whom his daughter seemed so very fascinated with. Plus, it wasn’t like he was having the best of days to begin with. Simone wasn’t proving quite as easy to deal with as he’d hoped. Then again, he supposed she’d get used to her new life with time. Hell, she’d have to, because he wasn’t going back to the man he had been for the past two years. He wasn’t going back to being out of control, hungry all the time. He hadn’t been a happy king, and as such, his subjects had not been particularly pleased either.

When Daniel bowed, replying to the order Alexander had issued, the king inclined his head ever so slightly as if in acceptance, raising only an eyebrow when the man left his daughter with a peck on the cheek. Alanya, who had so far merely glared at her father, turned her scorching gaze towards the captain as he hurried off. Ah, but Alexander knew what was coming next. He couldn’t remember the last time his daughter had taken anything without a fight, king or no king. She was a tough thing. But then he supposed growing up without a mother did that to a princess.

Her amber eyes swung back to him as she turned, her body ever elegant and poised in spite of the irritation burning in her eyes. Of course, he knew she could disguise that well enough as well, but he assumed she didn’t particularly want to. “Father,” she then began, her melodic voice sounding clearly, her tone ever patient. He offered a wry smile, countering with “Alanya,” in the exact same tone, except his eyes were amused. She narrowed her eyes in response. “Could you not have sent another? Perhaps the second in command?” She asked him, obviously none too pleased with his choice.

Alexander sighed deeply, slightly frustrated with her at times like these. “You know few men can handle the Royal adviser.” He explained, watching the irritation disappear from her amber eyes, leaving cool indifference, “besides, Daniel is not here for you to play around with. He is here to serve and to protect. Do not forget that.” It was a soft reprimand, the only kind he ever dealt her. She pursed her lips, her pretty eyes scrutinizing him, as if evaluating which route to take. Apparently she thought it best not to argue so instead she let a soft gust of wind pass her lips, looking up at him, eyes slightly wider than usual. After all, she did know just how to play him. “Please consider,” she noted, “in these twilight hours, I am not yet able to leave the building, and I do grow so very bored.”

Alexander couldn’t help another faint smile to graze his lips, his eyes softening. “Darling, I am…” he started when a servant interrupted him, addressing him fearfully. He frowned, turning his eyes towards the smaller vampire. Alanya’s amber depths followed his green once. None of them were too pleased. Alexander raised an eyebrow. This had better important. The king did not like being interrupted. “What serves to grant you enough importance to interrupt me, little one?” He inquired, his voice and face completely cool and impassive.

“Apologies. She appears to be destroying the room…” The girl added lowly. Well, he hadn’t expected much else, but honestly, wasn’t destroying the room a little melodramatic? “And?” He noted, sensing the girl had more to add, and as she told him Simone had been making herself a stake, he laughed. Straight out laughed, the sound filled with humour. Alanya tilted her head, intrigued. Her full lips curved into a smile. “And who is… she?” The princess asked, looking to the servant who took a step back, fearing the princess and her whims, but she still glanced at the king, who seemed to be laughing continuously.

“Answer me,” she noted, her voice filled with warning. The servant looked at her own two feet. “The… the king brought her, your highness.” Alanya’s smile widened, the glint of mischievousness back in her amber eyes. “Did he now?” She said to herself. Alexander, however, straightened immediately, his laughter cut off at once. “Alanya,” he began, “she is not to be harmed.” The princess raised both eyebrows, pouting theatrically, “aw, but why not?”

The king shook his head. “Because I have ordered it to be so. Do not test me on this one, Naya.” As he uttered the nickname her mother had once given her, he turned to the servant, speaking more before Alanya could reply. “Do not interrupt me with such trivial matters ever again.” He told her sternly, the warning clear as day, “Have the slaves clean up the room the second I remove her.” Then he glanced at Alanya. “I mean it, Alanya. Do not touch this one.” The look on her face became thoughtful.

That was the last words he uttered before leaving the room, heading back to the human he had left. Ruining rooms and fashioning stakes now, was she? Interesting. Human were such odd creatures at times, thinking they could ever know anything about his race. Thinking vampires did not even exist. Such obvious stupidity. On the note of foolishness, he wondered when Daniel would return with the two women. If he did not hurry, Alexander feared he would grow a little impatient. As it was, he could easily wait, not that he’d ever accept their tardiness, oh no. And ah, Nebellia had left against direct orders. That was the only thing that truly irked him in this.

The servant trailed after him dutifully as he merely opened the door the second he reached it, spotting Simone in an instant among the rubble. Vampiric speed brought him to her in no time, leaving her no time to react as he bent back her one wrist, loosening her grip, thereby letting the piece of wood fall to the ground. He kept his hand right there on her wrist, fingers wrapped tightly yet not hurtfully around her frail limb, keeping her in place. “You know, Simone,” he began on a purr, slightly amused with her still, “if you did not like the room, you could have just said so.”

When Sabine’s eyes narrowed further, Sapphire’s grin widened. Oh, but he was being such a stubborn, stubborn thing, wasn’t he? She giggled when he rolled his eyes at her in the most childish, offended manner, and turned his back on her dance. His entire body remained tense, however, even as he sat there, eyes taken off of her and the guy she was with, in a display of defiance. And he remained in his seat. He didn’t strike her as the type to usually willingly partake in anything fun so she wondered why he would be there if not for her. But that didn’t make… except maybe it did… and oh. Sapphire’s eyes widened as the male she was with slid a hand under her dress.

By instinct, she pushed him off, frowning at him as he stumbled back a few steps. She swayed slightly, suddenly a little out of balance, and she reached out to hold onto some random person. She sent the young girl an apologetic, drunken smile, and fortunately she remained standing until Sapphire had found control of her legs once more and let go, sending the girl off with a happy “thanks, darlin’!” She had turned to wave her unexpected helper off, but as she swung back around, the guy she had been dancing with was suddenly back and a little too in her face. “Look, I’m sorry, but it’s not like you weren’t asking for it.”

Sapphire blinked up at him, taking a few seconds to take it all in and properly decide on what he was actually saying to her. Then she laughed, the sound mocking in itself. “I didn’t ask for shit, but thanks anyway.” With that she ran off, forcing her way through the throng of people to reach Sabine, surprisingly graceful as she scooted in between his seat and the one next to it, reaching out to twirl a strand of his hair around her index finger. The grin she directed at him was happy to see him, and she was. For some reason having Sabine here made the night better. Not that she could grasp why on earth it would. He’d done nothing but piss her off.

“You look so cute when you’re all brooding,” she teased him, sapphire eyes gleaming mischievously. In fact he looked rather sexy. It was a little odd, to be frank, but her body seemed to magnetically take itself towards him. She’d accepted the fact that he was a force to be reckoned with when it came to her body, but this was odd. Maybe it was the alcohol. Yep, it was definitely the alcohol. It always made her more susceptible to male charms and… physical approaches. Well, usually it did. It always had before she’d met Sabine. After that other guys hadn’t really been able to get much of a reaction out of her. Maybe that was why it was so intense with him; she hadn’t gotten laid in so fucking long.

That was what she needed! Sex! Yes! That made sense! And and… damn it, she needed to find… someone. Didn’t matter who. She was too drunk to properly remember tomorrow anyways. Sabine was still looking awfully sexy. Maybe… no. Nuh uh. Not Sabine. No way. He wouldn’t, anyway. He was too uncomfortable with touch. Yep. There was no way. Regardless of her own mind having gone over it all, however, Sapphire couldn’t stop her intoxicated brain from wanting what it couldn’t have.

Besides, she couldn’t resist teasing him a bit. After all, it was Friday and the night was young! She looked up at Sabine, that playful smile still on her lips. “Silly of you, though, to be sitting here like that, when you could come dance with me instead.” She told him, letting her eyes study his, not caring one bit that her own were probably a bit glazed by now. Then she smiled wryly, leaning in to whisper in his ear, “Sabine Marx. The man who isn’t man enough to take what he wants.” Straightening back up, she raised an eyebrow then. “And don’t tell me you don’t want me, darling. At least you definitely don’t want others to, and lies are such tasteless things.” Of course being obnoxiously intoxicated, Sapphire didn’t quite grasp the implications of her words.

---

---

As Alexander approached the redheaded human in front of him, he took in her appearances, evaluating her state in a way he rarely bothered to. After all, he had people to keep the humans alive and well enough to be fed on, but it seemed Sarai was doing a rather terrible job when it came to keeping Simone well nourished. The human had lost weight in the past two weeks, the colour in her cheeks was slowly dwindling with the lack of energy, and the bags under her eyes spoke much of her lack of sleep. She looked pale and feeble. Especially in contrast to the wild, vibrant locks framing her features.

And her stance. Truly, Sarai could not be blamed for the change within Simone; the odd submissiveness, which he’d found himself liking less and less, the quietness, the lack of spark in her eyes. Her fight was gone. Well, most of it. As he reached her, Alexander curled his index finger under her chin and tucked it upwards gently, looking down at her thoughtfully. Such an odd little thing, she was. And to think he’d wanted to get rid of her fire before. Now all he wanted was to get it back. He sighed, looking down at her, a slight glint of worry in his green depths.

He couldn’t thrall her again if he wanted her to regain some of that previous fire she’d presented him with. She had to be able to at least move… right? Well, it was a step on the way. Since she’d hurt herself in trying to fight him on her second day here, Alexander had not felt comfortable letting her have control of her own body while his sharp, long fangs were in her neck. Last time she had survived well enough, but the amount of blood everywhere had been trying on his guards who were much younger than he. Besides, what if she severed something important? If she died, Alexander was screwed. As such, he’d kept her still against her will, but now she’d been compliant for quite a while and he felt comfortable enough letting her have some bits of freedom back.

“Simone,” he then began, his tone surprisingly gentle to anyone who had not seen the king around Simone for the past week’s time, his green eyes intense on her, “I am going to trust you not to hurt yourself while I feed on you.” He said no more as an arm was placed around her waist, the hand under her chin moving to swipe her hair to the side ever so gently, pushing the red scarf down enough to reveal the spot he always bit, his fingers brushing her skin teasingly as he did, before the hand cupped her cheek. It did not take the king much time to tilt his head down and to the side, fangs sliding out automatically as he moved to sink them into her neck, right at that wildly pulsating vein he had come to know so well.

No matter how many times Alexander had Simone’s blood, the taste never became boring. It was an explosion of tiny orgasms on his tongue as it, gentle and controlled as ever, lapped up every single drop of blood coming out of the holes he had made himself. He always healed her up afterwards. Always. It was an odd contrast really, since Alexander was usually a rather cold individual. He did not oftentimes care enough about a person to show signs of compassion, except when it came to a select few. Alanya, Nebbs were two “living” people he genuinely and openly felt any level of affection towards. As much trouble as Nebbs was, she was still a friend, and although he would often find himself frustrated with her, she would always remain so. Hell, if she had not been a friend, she would not have been alive.

As Alexander finished his feeding on Simone, having fought himself not to move his hands from their relatively innocent placements, he drew back carefully, his tongue sweeping over the two perfect puncture wounds. They healed up as always, and as he held up the human woman, the hand on her cheek moved to caress her hair. His gaze was at the door as he wondered at everything that had happened. Then he murmured softly, that sliver of worry not quite hidden in his voice, “you’re not eating properly.” It was a statement. It was not harsh, nor was it demanding of her. He was merely curious to see whether she would speak up. He was giving her room to after all. He assumed there was a reason she was losing weight here, and he wanted to know it.

When Sabine’s arm moved to wound around her waist, his hand curled at the base of her spine, Sapphire found herself looking up into his eyes, seemingly falling under a subtle spell he appeared to be weaving. She just felt… safe. Being in this firm embrace felt right. It seemed his embrace had been what she’d been waiting for all of her life and she gave in to that feeling, enjoying the rightness of it. Like she was supposed to be here, like he was her home away from home. She felt comfortable. It was so odd, considering she barely knew him, but for some reason, in this moment, she trusted him more than anyone. Trusted him to protect her and take care of her; trusted him not to hurt her.

Odd, considering he already had, but thoughts like that were discarded as her body seemed to melt into his, as though the two of them became one, and her body had been shaped to fit his perfectly. The way he’d tensed when she’d kissed his neck deliberately still lingered. The memory of it was heady. The fact that she could affect him that way was enough to let her know that he did indeed want her too, and he’d obviously loosened up around her, considering he had told her he did not like to be touched only two weeks previously, and now he seemed happy to put his hands on her… liked to be touched by her in turn as well. Just like his possessive look when she had danced with that other guy had jolted something inside of her, his nearness and embrace did too.

The heat and desire seemed constant and she felt fairly certain it would not be sated until he gave in. She desperately needed him to give in. Now that she’d felt his proximity… felt his embrace… she couldn’t imagine letting go again. She needed it. God knew why, but she did. Then he finally spoke and once more, as the husky purr washed over her, Sapphire had to bite down on her lower lip, looking up at him with both desire and wonder. She took a deep breath, trying not to be too taken by the mere sound of his voice this way. Why was he being so difficult? Never had she had to fight to get laid this way. Guys usually came running when she called, but no. Sabine simply had to be challenging when she wanted him more than she’d ever wanted any other man.

“I thought a gentleman was supposed to be nice. Or… in the very least… considerate,” she countered playfully to his words, having regained her equilibrium surprisingly quickly as she leaned her face in to nuzzle the tip of her nose gently against the lobe of his ear. “But no,” she then continued more quietly near his ear, “I happen to be rather fond of this version of you.” When she straightened to look into his eyes once more, she added, “although in all honesty, you are being terribly difficult,” with a teasing smirk on her lips, her drunken eyes flicked over his face. His lips. Why wouldn’t he just fucking kiss her? Did she seriously have to do everything herself? Psh. Men.

Soon, however, Sabine’s hand was playing with a strand of her hair, and once more a shot of electricity shot through her, although this one was different. It wasn’t going to her groin. No… this one shit straight into her heart and she found herself taken aback by him. Her heart sped up just a little as she stared at him observing her hair. Such a simple act, really, yet something about the process was utterly captivating. It took him but moments before he was tucking the strand of golden hair back behind her ear and her eyes widened just a fraction. So gentle yet so powerful. She’d seen him tossing around a group of fit men, yet he was so utterly gentle with her, his obvious strength only evident in the firmness of his embrace.

His hand brushed through her soft locks and she tilted her head to the side a little, watching him so deliberately placing his hands on the small of her back to join the first him. It seemed he was all she could pay attention to right now. He was all she had an interest in. She blinked a couple of times when his eyes suddenly found hers once more, and the jolt of it caused a soft gasp to escape her as she sucked in a breath of air. So intense… his eyes. Even though there was an amused edge to them, they drew her in like nothing else possibly could.

When he then spoke, however, a frustrated sigh escaped her and she narrowed her eyes at him impatiently. “Oh no. No. You don’t get to do this to me.” She stood up on her toes as to level the two more, although it really didn’t do much, so she just ended up looking rather silly, not that she noticed that much herself. Her hands twisted in his hair as she looked up at him, a drunken, decisive fire in her eyes, clearly mixing with desire and impatience. She was horny and he needed to stop playing around!

“You want me too or you wouldn’t be here, so stop pretending to merely be playing along.” She stated, her tone not taking no for an answer. “So,” she then continued, “either you pick up your game, or I’m sure I could find several other willing men in here.” He’d challenged her, but this way he could tease her all night and she’d never get fucking laid! No proper sex for two years could make a body rather wanton, and he clearly had a lot of damned self control. Ugh, she hated men with self control. They were so difficult to manipulate with sex. Tsk tsk. Sabine wasn’t going to give in until he felt like it, no matter how much she teased him.

Although… apparently her kisses did have some effect. If this didn’t work, she had plenty of other cards up her sleeve. No matter how it seemed, she wasn’t giving up. She wanted him, damn it, and her sex-deprived body was going to have him.

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When Simone replied, Alexander’s initial reaction was to chuckle, relieved to see these little flashes of the human woman he’d brought home with him two weeks ago. “It’d be a start,” he responded playfully to her question of whether he wanted her to kiss his shoes in thanks, an amused glint in his eyes. Of course he didn’t expect her to do it – after all, she didn’t seem to have much regard for his position, no matter how many times it had been demonstrated. Especially not considering her sarcastic tone of voice. She was much too proud a little creature, wasn’t she? Rather interesting, it was.

Ah, and she’d rolled her eyes at him. He wasn’t particularly fond of people doing that, but then… people had never done that around him. Well, okay, so Alanya had done it a few times, but that was different, since she was his daughter, and it had been during her more… rebellious phase. Fortunately she’d gotten over that many centuries ago. Honestly it had been quite a bother, both to him and everyone else, because she’d frankly started exploring how far her looks and a few well-placed words and touches could get her. The answer had been served after a little while; very far. A beautiful woman could easily find herself in a very powerful position if she knew how to work it. Alanya had both the talents and the looks, so although she was not queen yet, she was regarded as one.

Alexander himself had conflicted feelings about that. On one hand, he was proud of her prowess, but on the other hand, he didn’t particularly like the way men looked at her. Perhaps that was the base of his dislike when it came to Alanya’s involvement with Daniel Bowman. As much as he tried to convince himself that he’d gotten used to it, a father never really did let go, did he? Regardless, he didn’t react to Simone rolling her eyes at him. He’d merely chosen to ignore it because frankly she didn’t know better. True, he could educate her, and he could most likely turn her into the same meek kind of lamb as the other cattle in his household, but there was something different about her. Perhaps the taste of her blood made him more inclined to enjoy being around her. It definitely had to be the blood. It set her apart.

He’d looked into her grey eyes for no more than a few seconds when she suddenly hunched forward, a pained expression crossing her pretty features. He stared at her, panicking quietly. “Simone?” He urged, worry shining through clearly in his voice. What did one do in a situation such as this? He was about to call out to the guards when her stance changed and she leaned into him, the look of pain dissipating. She was okay, right? This meant she was okay? She couldn’t not be okay. He was going to kill Sarai if Simone fell ill. That servant girl had done a piss-poor job of taking care of the redhead as it was.

When she gripped him tightly then, her arms wrapping around him, Alexander breathed a small sigh of relieve. The tense state of her muscles was no more, and she now seemed to fall into him, holding onto him as though he was her salvation. Odd situation really. She was holding onto him while his teeth were not in her neck. She hadn’t done that before yet it felt… well, he couldn’t quite decipher what he felt about it, and he certainly did not even want to consider that shot of panic he’d just experienced. Never would he even give it a second thought. He really didn’t like the direction that would take him.

His free arm came to wrap around her too as he drew her closer. Her hands sliding up his back, pressing her body closer to his even more, made Alexander look down at her fully, a mane of red meeting his gaze as he held onto her firmly. Was there a reason she was doing this? What was her game this time? His mind doubted her every move, racing away as he attempted to analyze her reasons for this. She seemed to hold onto him for dear life, and although Alexander didn’t want to fully recognize it, he didn’t want to let go of her again. For some reason unknown to him, having her in his arms was just… the way it should be. It felt like he was in the right place, and that more than anything worried him.

It worried him more than this inexplicable urge to tip up her chin and take her lips. Why did he want her this way? It had to be the blood. Yes, the blood must call to him in more than one way. That was the only real explanation. He couldn’t possibly want a human this way for any other reason. Even the ones he took to bed, only joined him there because he wanted to taste their blood on the high of an orgasm. There was nothing better. That was all it was. Nothing more. One hand danced up the middle of her back then, stopping only between her shoulder blades when he heard the door open without a single knock.

Alexander stiffened, immediately irritated. He didn’t have to look to know who it was either. Funny how she thought she could suddenly take liberties wasn’t it? Even Brigitte, who had been his personal servant for almost two millennia, did not dare take liberties. Perhaps this little thing needed to be put in her place. He could feel Simone shifting in his arms, and he ground his teeth, closing his eyes briefly to instill patience in himself. Alexander did not tolerate anything less than the utmost level of respect and Sarai seemed unable to deliver. That disappointed him greatly. One did not just barge in on a private audience. One did not just barge in on the king, period.

When the thing spoke to him, he reluctantly let go of Simone, looking down at her flushed face before glancing at Sarai, his eyes flashing with censure. The king clearly wasn’t happy with her. “Very well,” he told her then finally, his voice patient and calm, but clearly with an undertone that told him he was less than pleased with the way she had just… waltzed in like she owned the place. Then he bent down to place a soft, lingering kiss on Simone cheek as he murmured, “This will only take a little while, then I will take you to the kitchen.” He grabbed Sarai, his firm grip around her wrist a little too tight to be anywhere near polite.

Alexander forcefully dragged the servant out the door, slinging her in front of him once they were outside and he let go out her to rapidly close the door. Only then did his eyes flash with real anger, burning into her. “You will never again simply walk in when I am with Simone,” he ordered, his voice hard but controlled. “Do you understand?” He did not have to utter a threat. She should know very well that failure to obey was met with execution… unless your name happened to be Alanya or Nebellia. Or Simone… apparently. But that didn’t count. She was human… and she was new. She didn’t know better. He watched her quietly for a little while, before continuing, “Now, what do you want?”

Alexander did his best to ignore the odd pinch in his stomach when Simone stumbled again, and instead managed to simply look at her, raising an eyebrow. This really was starting to become a problem, wasn’t it? The king crossed muscular arms over his chest to keep his hands away from her; she was supposed to cook. He couldn’t go around distracting her… or himself. He really, really needed not to distract himself. Funny how his bloodlust was so under control with her, yet most everything else was not. He wasn’t quite sure which was worse, but he was pretty sure the slaves were rather grateful their king would not be eating and killing one of them on a daily basis.

So he chose to focus on her face and the reactions the kitchen elicited. Ah, he couldn’t quite discern whether she was surprised or impressed. Perhaps a mixture of both. Green eyes danced over the redhead human, focused on her in that certain way he’d found himself often falling into around this human. Why on earth was she so captivating? Was it the hair? He’d always had a thing for true redheads. Not gingers, but redheads. Are, but they were such rarities, and Simone apparently set herself apart even more. Everything she was, everything she made him think of and do… were abnormal. So out of the ordinary that he felt certain she was not fully human.

As she started searching the kitchen for… whatever she needed, Alexander let himself focus instead of the scent of his odd little adviser. She was close – her humming, a very distinguishable sound, was starting to get a little too loud for his liking. She had her own way of doing pretty much everything, which made her more than easy to recognize, but he really did dislike her humming. It wasn’t beautiful or melodic. It was jumbled and chaotic, everything Alexander attempted to rid himself of. As his eyes slid over Simone, watching her looking at a skillet with a rather… funny look, he smiled wryly. “Don’t get any ideas,” he told her playfully, inclining his head towards the cooking device.

Aaand… there she was. Alexander didn’t show her the courtesy of turning around. Instead, his eyes remained on Simone. She was not here for him. He could tell that much from the lack of the scent of that bag Sarai was supposed to hand her. However, as he felt her gaze, he sighed and turned to raise an eyebrow at her. Her eyes had turned to Simone, still why humming that destructive tune. Oh he knew that smile… and he knew that look. “Nebellia,” he warned subtly. Simone was not a human she was allowed to play with. Perhaps he should’ve talked to his curious adviser while he’d had her on house arrest, but it had simply been too satisfying to see her pout and sulk.

Oh, Alexander cared plenty for his dear Nebby, but their relationship was a complicated one not easily discerned and interpreted. Perhaps because they were complicated people, who, in spite of how things may look, understood each other surprisingly well. Right now, however, that incessant humming was getting on his nerves. He could practically feel Simone tensing a little behind him. Of course he couldn’t blame him. Even his guards feared Nebellia. She just had… a certain something. Perhaps the air of insanity was what made people so unsure, but regardless she was oftentimes a lot more intentional in her endeavors than people gave her credit for. Hell, sometimes it even took Alexander a little while to figure it out.

He would’ve said something then, except he knew Sarai and Brigitte would be joining them in a second and… yep, there they were. Great. Now all they needed was Bowman and Alanya and it would be a most joyous gathering. He noticed Simone moving towards him, clenching the skillet in her hand, but more so than see it, Alexander smelled her fear. And for some reason, he didn’t like it… which was weird, because fear, just like sexual climax, had a tendency to make blood sweeter. As if wishing to reassure her that she was safe, Alexander snaked an arm around her waist, gently drawing her closer to his side.

But he sighed, closing his eyes as he pinched the bridge of his nose the second Sarai spoke. Oh, but at least Nebellia stopped the awful humming. Small favors, small favors indeed. As Nebbs examined the contents of the bag given to her, Alexander’s once more hard, cold gaze fell on the small, lowly servant. “Sarai, you may follow Brigitte’s example.” He said coolly, dismissing her. Then his eyes easily moved to Brigitte, his tone of voice changing to a much softer one. “Sweetheart, I believe Sarai could use some educating. Make sure she gets it; I’m afraid she has not been all I had hoped for.” He told her casually. Sarai had fine control of her blood lust, and Alexander appreciated that, so he did want her to keep serving Simone. But at the same time, she needed to be put in her proper place, and Brigitte would do that just fine.

Ah, Nebellia seemed rather pleased with the leftover samples she’d quickly determined them to be. But of course he’d known she’d be. He couldn’t help a wry smile as his adviser spoke, twirling happily as she gracefully moved into a curtsy. “This is not us making up, Nebby,” he told her casually, the use of her nickname telling her that he was no longer angry with her. She was always Nebellia when he was angry or irritated with her, Nebby when he thought her to be cute or when he simply felt in a good mood. Nebbs was rarely used to address her when it came to Alexander. He preferred Nebby. It had a better ring to it, perhaps. “You’ve been given these because I need you to have them.” He told her this pointedly, but of course that would not prevent her from thinking of it as a present, because… well, such were the ways of his dear adviser.

Another sigh escaped him the second he was Nebellia notice the skillet in Simone’s hand. Oh, lovely. As much as he didn’t know exactly what she would do, he knew she’d do something and that someone wouldn’t like it. Both his eyebrows shot up when he witnessed her grabbing it with her teeth only to place it atop Sarai’s head. Then he chuckled. If nothing else, Nebby certainly did have the ability to amuse him. She cleared her throat theatrically and he smiled wryly as she winked at him. Oh yes, she was playing around. Good. That meant Simone was safe a little while yet until he could speak with his adviser. Which would be soon. Perhaps he should leave Brigitte and Sarai here with Simone. Sarai could learn. Yes. She should learn.

When his adviser spoke again, he cast her another dry smile and motioned for her to follow him as he glanced at the servants. “You two stay here. Make sure Simone has everything she needs to cook herself a proper meal. You have your orders.” Of course by that he was referring to Sarai learning from Brigitte. Hopefully they’d put that together. If they didn’t, he needed new servants.

As he made it outside the kitchen, he stopped in the main hall, waiting for his adviser before he looked at her and spoke. “I want you to replicate her blood, if possible. Humans do not live forever, and her blood is… almost magical. I can’t have it disappear once she dies of old age… or self inflicted damages.” He paused briefly before looking at her in a more concentrated manner. “Ah, and Simone herself ; the human… she’s off limits. You are not to touch her, nor to be responsible for any kind of harm done to her.”