[[ooc: Just a note; This thread jumps from places, and was started via AIM, therefore, it may get a little confusing to read. Lakota or Crighton's POV is by XShesInDenialX ( Alisha) and Serene is AdXLunam (Kat) It's uh, a little lengthy and may be split into seperate posts.]]

XShesInDeniaLx [7:16 P.M.]: A night amongst the cold stones of a cemetary might have proved unhospitable to most...and well,Lakota felt the same way most of the time. I may be a vampire, but I like my comforts...,she mused,pulling the lapels of her coat up to shield her face from the wind whipping through the trees. It was certainly a strange night night indeed....cold wings tearing through the rows of headstones,but the moon was bright and high without a cloud to be seen. A mixed omen if she'd ever seen. Especially when she was-
XShesInDeniaLx [7:16 P.M.]: -waiting for an old friend.
ad x lunam [7:18 P.M.]: The cemetary gate swung open quietly, as if it was welcoming her back. It should, after all, it was her 'resting place'...to her family, at least. Silently, she weaved between the various headstones, brushing a few in passing. It was nights like this that she cherished- the beauty of the silence, and the glow of the full moon. Stepping lightly, she stopped a few feet away from a familiar figure, tucking her hands into her trenchcoat pockets.
XShesInDeniaLx [7:27 P.M.]: Truthfully, it wasn't the most..'secure' place for a meeting, even if the occupants were, well, stone dead...that didn't seem to stop anyone nowadays. Heaving a sigh, she leaned back against the gnarled oaktree that protected her from the brunt of the wind,already well aware that someone had approached. Despite being unable to scent the air in the gale,there was still... a sense that made her smile in the slightest. Not that she'd let on...procrastination to gather one's thoughts was a plus...especially-
XShesInDeniaLx [7:27 P.M.]: when asking an elder's favor...
ad x lunam [7:28 P.M.]: Serene stood silently, an amused look faintly seen on her face. It was obvious that the younger one was nervous- there was no need to feel it- the girl's manners was enough. "Tell me, Lakota, why are you so nervous?" She asked lightly, tilting her head. "You've never been nervous before."
XShesInDeniaLx [7:33 P.M.]: Lakota couldn't stop the full smile that lit her face as she turned towards Serene, even if it was a little shaky. " You don't seem to recall our little 'hunting trip," she teased
ad x lunam [7:35 P.M.]: "That," Serene commented, "was another situation entirely." Raising an eyebrow, she continued. "This is another type of nervous...Just spill it." Yes, Serene actually used a...er, 'modern' term.
XShesInDeniaLx [7:42 P.M.]: She quirked a brow at the phrase,smirking a little...though didn't bother to comment. Her expression seemed torn between relief and deep worry,that she was certain Serene would sense even with her eyes closed. Sighing, Lakota edged down the small slope to stop right in front of the other vampire. " 'Guess putting it off's not going to solve matters ,hm?," the serious tone broken a bit when she glared at the hair that kept blowing into her face..." Cripes,but walk over to that mausoleum,yeah? Bloody wind."
ad x lunam [7:44 P.M.]: Serene covered her laugh at the other woman's obvious argument with her hair. "Of course. Bloody wind it is." She responded, rolling her eyes. "Lead on." Waving her hand before her, she raised a questioning eyebrow. "And no, putting it off does nothing to solve problems."
XShesInDeniaLx [7:47 P.M.]: "Fine then,Mum,"she shot back,already walking at a fast clip towards the nearest stone building. She fet bad for snapping,of course, but there'd be time for apologizing later. Well,hopefully. Digging her fingertips into the small gap of the door, Kota pulled the slab aside just enough to squeeze through,disappearing into the dark interior.
XShesInDeniaLx [7:47 P.M.]: ( So rusty -dies-)
ad x lunam [7:49 P.M.]: Serene furrowed her brow at the attitude she recieved, but brushed it off as nerves. Following Kota, she slid inside and pushed the slab back just enough so the wind wouldn't effect them. Pulling out a lighter, she went through the building and lit a few of the remaining candles, before turning to the other woman with a questioning look.
XShesInDeniaLx [7:54 P.M.]: She'd retreated to a casement near the back of the small space and perched on the edge,chewing at her thumbnail; a sure sign she was a *mite* agitated. Lakota flicked dark eyes to Serene's face when approached,the words spilling forth in a jumblem"Myoldorder'sbackagainandIneedyoutoclaimmeasyoursbecauseyou'reolderthanmysireandIwon'tbeforcedbackthereand...",the stream of babble continued on in such a fashion for a bit longer...lucky she didn't need the breath
ad x lunam [7:55 P.M.]: "Silence." One word, simply stated. Serene rubbed her temple. "Even though that went on forever, I believe I understood it within the first sentence. You need to be claimed in order to stay, correct?"
XShesInDeniaLx [7:59 P.M.]: Opening her mouth to continue...she thought better of it,allowing it to snap shut once more. Well enough,considering she didn't think it would help matters when she didn't even know where to go from there...A simple,quiet,"Yes,"was the answer.
ad x lunam [8:00 P.M.]: Serene, though there was no need for it, sighed. Shaking her head, she muttered, "Stupid clans...They never learn." Opening her eyes, she studied Lakota silently for a moment. "When will they be here?"
XShesInDeniaLx [8:06 P.M.]: Lakota's eyes widened at, what appeared to at least be ackowledgement of her problem. She'd forgotten how unsettling the other vampire's silent appraisals were,and shifted anxiously on the slab. " They gave me three nights to be 'reinstated'....",her upper lip curling in disgust only implied what that would mean,before adding somewhat fearfully,Something I'll never admit to..." or be staked."
ad x lunam [8:07 P.M.]: Serene's eyes narrowed dangerous as her aura flaired to a dark shade of violence. "What. Did. You. Say?" She demanded, her usually soft tone now ice.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:09 P.M.]: The hair on the back of her neck raised,and Lakota surpressed a shudder at the force of Serene's aura. She was feeling like a fledgling all over again,but forced herself to meet the ice of her elder's eyes," Reinstated or permanently dead."
ad x lunam [8:10 P.M.]: If the chill outside wasn't enough, the force of Serene's aura would have frozen any mortal. "Where are they?" She hissed, her fangs elongating. "Take me to them. Now."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:14 P.M.]: She didn't know whether to be awed at Serene's fierce protective streak, or a little afraid for the other vampire's sanity. " Are you bloody crazy?,"she asked,astonished. " The Aurelian Order and yewant'a storm the castle? I asked for help, not for you to meet yet final death,Luv."
ad x lunam [8:20 P.M.]: Serene snorted, "What little faith you have in me, doll. Now, get off your bum and let's go." She stated, pulling the slab back so they could leave.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:25 P.M.]: "Wh-...'Ey now!,"she hopped down from the casement,and was behind Serene in a blink,staring at her incredulously," Awful good act there,"Kota sniffed,scuffing her boots in the gravel underfoot. She was feeling a little...exposed to say the least, but insecurity could be pushed back in order to obtain answers..for now," If not rushing in, or letting them off me...what'd you have planned exactly? I mean, s'not like I should have asked and...." Shit. Told yourself not to go there, an' you did...
ad x lunam [8:26 P.M.]: Serene looked back at her, raising an eyebrow. "Just go. Now. Don't ask questions."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:29 P.M.]: She glared silently at Serene, willing her agitation away from anger to something more focused before breaking eye contact and stepping out into the Thankfully! lessened wind. " They're in that old brick monstrosity on Lexington and 10th."
ad x lunam [8:29 P.M.]: Serene smirked. "Good girl. Now, would you prefer to walk or fly?"
XShesInDeniaLx [8:32 P.M.]: 'Kota smirked, an evil glint in her eyes as she glanced back at Serene,"We'll drive,"she replied,pulling a braided black keyring from her coat pocket.
ad x lunam [8:33 P.M.]: Serene rolled her eyes. She hated not driving herself and Kota knew it. "Fine." She said, crossing her arms. "Better speed, then, doll. Might want to get there before sunrise." She teased.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:37 P.M.]: Rounding a svelte black Magnum outside the gates.she smiled,hitting the button to unlock and start," Not conspicuous at all,right?" She took the teasing for what it was. It was...comforting, in a strange way. Climbing inside, she fastened her belt,waiting for Serene to hop in.
ad x lunam [8:39 P.M.]: Serene slid in the passenger side and fastened her belt. "Ah well, off we go, right?" She said, putting her hands behind her head. "The sooner we get there, the sooner the fun begins."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:43 P.M.]: "Um. yeah," Lakota's smile may have been a little forced as she put the car into gear,speeding off down the quiet streets. " Fun..." The black car flashed down the road like a shadow, lighting through intersections and just skirting the odd vehicle that happened to be in the way. Reckless? Maybe a little...but she might as well have a little fun..while she could at any rate. Serene's comment,and that thought certainly dampened her moodas they rolled to a stop a ways down 10th Ave.
ad x lunam [8:45 P.M.]: Serene glanced at the building. "I take it this is it?" She questioned, unfastening her belt. Her eyes automatically sought out all different entrances and exits, and the scent of both humans and vampires assulted her nose.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:50 P.M.]: Letting her belt drop with a dull click,Kota leaned over the console,peering up at the building through Serene's window. The place,even from outside,made her skin crawl,...her inner demon screamed,'Home,'even if she loathed the vampires and 'servants' within. " Yeah,I could smell their taint a mile away." And she could,unfortunately. Sighing,she shifted back to open the door,speaking softly as she climbed out of the Magnum," Basement level. Back supply entrance. There are converted offices."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:51 P.M.]: unfortunately*
ad x lunam [8:51 P.M.]: "Of course..." Pulling something out of her jacket, she tossed it to Kota. "Put that on. Do not, under any circumstances, take it off, understand?" Without a moment's hesitation, Serene banged the doors open and stormed into the room. (Think of the one scene from underworld, kinda...only more pissy)
XShesInDeniaLx [8:54 P.M.]: "Jewelry?,"she questioned..though apparently to Serene's back. Lakota felt a laugh bubbling up in her throat as she caught up to the other vampire," You think that's it?,"she hissed lowly upon stepping into the office, only to gasp at the sight of its occupants.
ad x lunam [8:55 P.M.]: Serene spared her a glance over her shoulder. "If you took the time to notice it, it's my symbol." She responded before making her way to the main area. She could smell the stench already...They had obviously killed a number of humans and were still feasting. "Are they known for being gluttons?"
XShesInDeniaLx [8:59 P.M.]: Kota shot her a pointed look that said it all. The scent of fresh death mingled with old blood; a revoltingly sweet and decaying smell as she picked her way through the network of broken bodies..human and a few who appeared to be half-breed demons. The sight didn't bother her so much as the implication. Despite her former reluctance,she found herself toying with the amulet at her throat." Fucking Hell,Serene. They mean business and I don't know why all the carnage over me."
ad x lunam [9:00 P.M.]: Serene looked at the woman. "What was your status among them? Your rank, your age? Who was the one that created you?" She questioned. There were reasons, of course, to the questions. Stepping over another body, she stopped a few feet from the door.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:06 P.M.]: Reaching the door, she leaned heavily against the wall,resting her forehead against the faded wallpaper. " I was a Favoured Childe,age 230...To the second in command to the Master of the clan...I left when the old vampire was murdered by a slayer.," She looked up at Serene, a not before seen sadness in her dark eyes, " My sire was drunk on power after that and I couldn't play those kinds of 'games' anymore..." She left the last hanging,figuring Serene could draw her own conclusions.
ad x lunam [9:07 P.M.]: "...And that is why they are doing this to get you back." She stated simply.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:11 P.M.]: "The bastard feels slighted? Well bully for him.,"she'd unconciously started to rub at her left arm,the fabric of her coat lifting slightly to reveal the line of star-shaped scars on her forearm. With a sigh,she pushed past,into the hall, unwilling to just stand andwait anymore. " Door at the end of the hall opens into Crighton's officespace...He'll," she paused a few doors down,speaking softly," He's not going to accept just the amulet you know. He's old school. Old blood."
ad x lunam [9:21 P.M.]: Serene glanced at the door and then looked back at Kota. "I am aware of that. However, it will be sufficent enough to keep the others at bay." Closing her eyes for a moment, Serene cleared her mind. Letting her anger and rage fill her, she turned around and headed for the door. "You may stay, or you may follow. Your choice." She stated, flinging the door open.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:27 P.M.]: Instinct said self-preservation was key...but unfortunately,she was a little too ballsy for her own good. Safe? Maybe not, but there was no way in hell she'd let one of the closest people to her run in without any backup. Time to suck it up and face the music, so they say... Pissed off and frightened served her well sometimes, and she strode in her Serene, her expression closed off and cold. Even if they didn't win, Kota would at least go out fighting.
ad x lunam [9:28 P.M.]: Serene looked around the room is disgust. "Are you hungry?" She questioned sarcastically to the figure before her.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:33 P.M.]: Crighton was sprawled over a chaise lounge, boots propped up on the lax form of a young woman at the foot. Smiling fully , and revealing full fangs in the process,he held up a hand to stop any of the other vampires...a relatively young blonde male, and a couple redheaded twins to his left, and an older man..probably a lawyer that formed the core group of their little 'order'. -
XShesInDeniaLx [9:34 P.M.]: -"Lady, I would invite you to join in but,"he nudged the prone human at his feet with a heel,chuckling a bit at her weak protest,"We're out of fresh supplies."
ad x lunam [9:35 P.M.]: Serene raised an eyebrow, arms crossed. "Sorry, I don't do left overs." she responded. "Crighton, was it? It appears you and I have a little issue to settle."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:40 P.M.]: "Do we?," Swinging his feet to the floor,Crighton was all languid grace, sitting up like the king of of the pride...and in this case,he was. Raising a brow at the slight scuffle Lakota made behind the Elder vampire before him,Crighton's expression shifted to hold a degree of dark glee. " I see. Though there's nothing to settle. I am at no fault."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:41 P.M.]: Kota cringed inwardly. Crighton knew he didn't have to bother prodding her mind to unnerve her. She settled for shutting her mouth and glaring balefully...wishing him to combust on his poncy chaise lounge with the little blonde tramp-vamp that had taken her place.
ad x lunam [9:42 P.M.]: "Oh? No fault, you say? To have a younger one either be, I quote, 'reinstated or staked'?" Serene asked, her eyes cold as ice and her tone just as chilled. She wouldn't be surprised if this...creature...didn't realize his rank compared to her. She was at least twice his 'age'. Making sure to keep Kota behind her, she continued. "Now, Crighton, let us talk this out as two master vampires should.." She said, emphasizing the word.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:48 P.M.]: He regarded the Lady silently a moment before flicking his eyes to his former charge. When he spoke,it was directed at Lakota, even while responding to Serene. "Lady, it would do you well to look up our order's origins. It is within my right as Master of our Order to punish those who prove traitor. Your little girl there knows well what I could have done. She'll be getting off easy with only deprivation and branding if she returns without a fight." ad x lunam 8:19 P.M.]: Serene tilted her head slightly up, a smirk on her face. "I don't have to look up your order's origins. I already know them. After all, I know your sire, and the sire before that." She put on a 'thoughtful' look and tapped her foot for a moment. "Actually...I do believe I know the ORIGINAL master."
ad x lunam [8:21 P.M.]: "It was Nikolas, was it not? Sir Nikolas de Brak, third son of Duke of Brak."
ad x lunam [8:29 P.M.]: lol
XShesInDeniaLx [8:30 P.M.]: Chuckling as he unfolded himself from his chair, Crighton strode over to 'his' desk. " This...,"he stated with just a bit of pride,"Happens to be that history I mentioned. You know much. Although,"a smug little smirk turned his lips," Nikolas de Brak reformed the Order from its more...arcane origins. But close." It was amusing,certainly...but they weren't facing off over the trivial...He had to keep reminding himself.
ad x lunam [8:32 P.M.]: Serene raised an eyebrow. "Now, did I specify which original master? No, I don't believe I did." Leaning back against the wall, she crossed one leg over the other, amused at his...antics. He thought he could beat her, hmm? Well, he had another thing coming. "Moving on...Crighton. I have claimed this girl as my own."
ad x lunam [8:34 P.M.]: (ugh. feet are hard to draw)
XShesInDeniaLx [8:38 P.M.]: "When she's clearly been marked otherwise?." He leveled a calculating look at Lakota,noting the subtle changes in her appearance, and though it didn't reflect on his face, the relief and satisfaction of having even come across what was his again. Speaking softly,an effectively persuasive tone on most, Crighton extended a hand to *his* girl, " Come. You know where, and to whom,you belong. It's there on your arm,pet."
ad x lunam [8:40 P.M.]: Serene was just about up to here with her patience level. Instead of keeping her emotions reigned in, she let the gates open. Her aura flared as her anger, frustrated, annoyance, and wrath flooded out and into the room, mostly channeled at Crighton. Her eyes turned silver, as her fangs enlongated. Straightening up from the wall, Serene moved in front of Kota and stalked towards Crighton, every move like the predator she was.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:45 P.M.]: "Fucking hell!" Hardly the most eloquent response to the scene breaking out in front of her,but what else was she to do. Lakota had to admit,to herself really,that Crighton had a point, and Serene was saving her sorry arse yet again. So,in what was probably one of the most regrettable moves in her unlife, she scrambled to get between the two masters...yes, a very stupid thing,considering her own fear and anger at the situation were no match to the other forces in the room...the ones younger than her were -
XShesInDeniaLx [8:47 P.M.]: cringing in the corners as Kota managed to get near the pair,choking out a simple,"No." Stupid,stupid,stupid....
ad x lunam [8:48 P.M.]: Serene paused momentarily to spare a glance at Kota. "Lakota...Stand down...I do not wish to harm you. The younger ones will not perish, I promise you that. Him..." Serne motioned to Crighton with her head, "Shall most likely endure injuries..." Her eyes sparked, the hunter was back. "You should know better..." She whispered the other girl.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:51 P.M.]: He'd been prepared for Serene to unleash...willingly baiting her since their arrival. Crighton knew when he was outmatched; reckless he may be, and prideful..but never stupid. His own defenses were solid enough to hold for.. maybe a short while. Apparently,reason didn't work with these States-dwelling masters. A green gaze lingered on Lakota a moment. 'Stupid girl,"he said softly...affectionately? No, that wouldn't do, but the slip-up wassure to be noticed. No matter...the other vampires in the office were-
XShesInDeniaLx [8:52 P.M.]: -expendable..he only needed to make point long enough to get out in relatively one piece. " Lakota,she's right,"he admitted grudingly before looking back down at Serene," But she still follows a call. You know that."
ad x lunam [9:02 P.M.]: Serene's aura and manners were still on high edge. However, she was still in control of herself, and raised an eyebrow at Crighton. "...Was that..afftection...I heard?" She questioned lowly, onlyso he could hear. Yes, she had heard his little slip up. With a shake of her head, she stared him down. "You damage an innocent because you hold affection for her?" She questioned...or rather, made a statement. "You believe that by punishment, they will stay? That fear is better then loneliness?"
ad x lunam [9:03 P.M.]: Serene gently moved Lakota out from between them, just pushing her slightly to the side to step up to Crighton. "Do you not realize you are in my terrority, and therefore, under my juristiction?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:10 P.M.]: Sometimes,he thanked a shadowed rememberance of a very medeival upbringing. Aura flaring only slightly as the words hit home. Crighton fought to urge to either rage or laugh at the display," You're not going to appeal to my 'softer side',Lady," though his tone well sugguested otherwise," It is the way it's always been done...You don't control with kid gloves." Glancing at Kota,he grinned a bit," Heavyhanded approaches aren't why she left though. Did you bother to dig a little deeper?," he questioned Serene-
XShesInDeniaLx [9:12 P.M.]: as a side,wheels turning to come to a decision." I can't defeat you on your own grounds. I'm not as much a fool as you think. Let Lakota tell you why she ran *really*, and a bloodclaim occur. I'll leave." Crighton stared at Serene,formerly cheerful features sliding into a blank perfection that betrayed little inner tumult.
ad x lunam [9:13 P.M.]: Serene raised an eyebrow at his actions. "If you so desire to do so......I will not stop you. Though, I must question you...Have you ever heard of one soul residing in two bodies?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:14 P.M.]: She allowed herself to be lead aside, a low growl rumbling in her throat. 'Bastard..',she bloody well hated feeling helpless while she was bargained over yet again.
ad x lunam [9:15 P.M.]: "Shush, child." Serene admonished softly. "Let him do what he will. After all, he recognized this as my place."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:17 P.M.]: Crighton nodded once,slowly in response to Serene..though he stared at Kota..face blank,though the eyes were not. Apparently, he'd be leaving with a bruised ego, *and* humiliated that his own childe would serve under another over himself.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:20 P.M.]: She flicked an irate at Serene,but the growl tapered off. So Lakota instead glared balefully at her Mas-...well,Former master,she supposed. It appeared Serene was gaining..something here. She fought the evil little smile threatening to form.
ad x lunam [9:21 P.M.]: Serene let out an impatient sigh. "Crighton, do you prefer us to discuss this here, or am I to bring her back later?" Just because she was pissed off didn't mean she had no manners
XShesInDeniaLx [9:24 P.M.]: He *did* laugh then, though it was a bit strained," You know as well as I that she'll tear through like a hurricane if we leave her out of her own fate. You know,this democratic way you lot seem to prefer." Even though he was willing to concede on some things...this wasn't one. "What are your terms? I've given mine."
ad x lunam [9:27 P.M.]: Serene studied him for a moment. "My terms are relatively simple. We shall return come nightfall. However, until then, you and yours are only to have willing humans...And not to kill them, either. The only ones who die around here are those who deserve it..." She let out a low breath. "Done?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:31 P.M.]: Crighton had sense enough to be a bit skeptical, even though he doubted this city's master would go back on her word...like his own had on more than one occasion. Looking back to the youngones on the other side of the room,he heaved(heft?) a weary sigh. "None shall die unless they're threatened. And my stipulations?"
ad x lunam [9:30 P.M.]: Serene closed her eyes momentarily and reigned her emotions back in. "Very well. Lakota. Come."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:37 P.M.]: Giving a very unladylike snort..though she really far from one anymore,Lakota pushed herself away from the wall,obviously disgusted by the proceedings," M'not some puppy,"she glanced at Serene,then Crighton,as she spoke," Or a bartering chip. I'll be outside. Hash out the technicalities, Masters," she nearly spat while walking towards the office door, hissing at the trembling younglings as she strode out.
ad x lunam [9:39 P.M.]: Serene shook her head, sighing. She looked at Crighton with a raised eyebrow. "Do you remember me ever saying she's a puppy?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:42 P.M.]: He shrugged, smoothing a crease in a formerly pristine white shirt," I would say the ,'Lakota,Come.,' was what triggered it,"Crighton replied with a smirk,"We know she doesn't take well to orders laltely. Even unintentional."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:42 P.M.]: lately*
ad x lunam [9:44 P.M.]: Serene rolled her eyes. "True enough. I suppose I shall see you at sundown." Shaking her head slightly at the younglings, she headed out of the office, much calmer and quieter then Lakota had.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:49 P.M.]: Crighton stared intently at the other vampire's retreating back, heaving a sigh only when they were both out of hearing range. " That you will." Funny a thought that, a leader of his order, and what would bring it crashing down was one girl...Kota'd always been his Helen.
ad x lunam [10:03 P.M.]: Serene walked out to where Lakota was, approaching ht eother woman quietly. "I apologize." She said simply. "It is your choice now." With a faint smile, Serene turned and headed off into the night, most likey to her place. "You know where to find me."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:12 P.M.]: She'd been leaning outside the doorway they'd snuck in by, uncharacterisitically still AND quiet as Serene spoke. Though, as the other vampire turned to walk away, Lakota's brow furrowed and she pushed away from the wall in a rush,grasping at the back of Serene's coat. " Don't le-I mean,"realizing she was still holding onto the fabric,she realeased it with a sigh. "Car's still there. Well, hopefully," she said with a small smile. The apology was in the offer," If you don't want to make the trek back."-
XShesInDeniaLx [10:13 P.M.]: Sorry. Thank you. Fuck I'm needy and they'll probably be there when I get back to my flat... the thoughts raced in the span of a moment.
ad x lunam [10:14 P.M.]: Serene paused, glancing at the girl. She smiled slightly. "Sure. I really don't feel like flying right now.." She furrowed her brow. "If you need a place to stay, by the way, you can stay at my place. Like you used to." She smirked. "Your room's still free. But you have to have a decision by tomorrow, you know..."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:20 P.M.]: "Look, I--Know." What could she say to any of it ,really. Smiling sadly,Kota nodded, digging the keys from her jacket pocket as she turned down the alley,"That a promise? 'Like you used to'? I'd think it'd have to be a little different,Kit."
ad x lunam [10:21 P.M.]: Serene snickered. "Hey, that's your call. Your room is still the same. Haven't had anyone else in it, actually. Same with whats-his-name...Mikhael?"
XShesInDeniaLx [10:26 P.M.]: Lakota was just keying the locks open when she froze,only her indicating that she wasn't stone," Mikhael,huh?...,"She wasn't surprised,really. After that meeting they'd had some time back, she'd known he'd call on the local Master at some point..it was when she'd left the first time.," Did he..tell you anything?"
ad x lunam [10:27 P.M.]: Serene looked at Kota curiously. "No, not really. Pretty much just that you two know each other." She gave a slight shrug. "He only stayed a few nights, but I wasn't sure if he was returning to I left the room alone."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:35 P.M.]: Seemingly satisfied with this, she opened the door for Serene before moving round to the driver's side," Yeah,that we do." Old family ties seemed to be flying in spades tonight
ad x lunam [10:36 P.M.]: Serene nodded her thanks and slid in. "Yea. I've pretty much left all the previous tenants rooms alone...never know when they'll be back." She said with a grin.
XShesInDeniaLx [8:41 P.M.]: "Well,aren't we the girl scout? 'Always prepared.'...Or are those the boys? Ah well..." she trailed off,turning the key in the ignition of the Magnum. She'd wanted to question Serene a little more about her illustrious brother, but it was hardly the pressing matter.
ad x lunam [8:42 P.M.]: Serene could tell there was more on Kota's mind, but she wasn't going to push it if the younger one didn't want to answer. "So...Do you want to go through with it?"
XShesInDeniaLx [8:48 P.M.]: Kota glanced briefly at the other vampire,a small frown turning her lips before looking back to the road as they drove back towards the mansion," I won't lie,Serene. I spent much of my life as a vampire with Crighton. In my way I will always care for him and what he was..what the Order used to be. But it's not that way any more...and, I won't endure it."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:48 P.M.]: At a red light, she turned to face Serene, dark eyes opaque in the saturated light," I will go through with a bonding. yes."
ad x lunam [8:49 P.M.]: Serene sighed softly. "I want you to be sure." She said, looking back Kota. 'I don't want you to make a choice because you feel you have to."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:52 P.M.]: "That's just it, Serene. I do have to. At least a choice. I can run forever, suffer under Crighton in everyway possible. Or, I submit to another," she'd let the last slip,and her mouth snapped shut. Sighing, she peeled off down the quiet boulevard towards Serene's mansion, trying to keep from bending the wheel under a whiteknuckled grip. " S'the only way I'm going to get any sort of peace."
ad x lunam [8:53 P.M.]: Serene smiled wryly. "Trust me, Lakota, you're not submitting to me. I'm not going to try and change you or anything. More so, I'd just grant you my protection." Watching as the mansion appeared up ahead, she tilted her head slightly. "Why, however, did Crighton tell me to have you tell me your past?"
XShesInDeniaLx [8:57 P.M.]: Throwing the car into park the second they pulled up,Lakota turned to Serene with a burning shame written plainly on her face. " Because half the time I begged him for it because I didn't know anything else. He Sired me without permission from our Master, and I bloody well did what I had to inorder to claw my way into any sort of standing with them."
ad x lunam [8:58 P.M.]: Serene blinked at the sudden outburst of information, then smiled. "I see. So you were one of them, eh? That's nothing to be ashamed of, you know." She shook her head slightly. "Crighton....What an ass."
XShesInDeniaLx [8:58 P.M.]: " I loved Crighton with every fiber of my undead heart and I was the one who lured our Master into bed so Crighton could attack him. THAT'S what he wanted me to tell you. I can't. be. trusted."
ad x lunam [8:58 P.M.]: "Darling, that's what happens when you're in love." Serene stated simply.
ad x lunam [8:58 P.M.]: "You don't think about the reprocussions of things, you just do them. He had you do it. He knew he could get you to, hence why he did."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:00 P.M.]: " It only sounds that simple,hm?." Throwing open the car door,Kota climbed out,hip-butting the door shut. Leaning back against the side, she waited for Serene,but kept talking anyway..hell,if she was going to spill, did it really matter how much was heard.?
ad x lunam [9:01 P.M.]: Serene slid out of the car quietly, listening to the other girl continue in silence. She understood why Kota had done what she did, and she also understood why Crighton did what he did.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:04 P.M.]: " I'm as much of an opportunist as Crighton is,Serene. I was conditioned that way." It hurt to admit it; she knew someone it was what they had to do..but how quickly it'd changed. " Karma kicks everyone in the arse though. Crighton became the seething idiot you met tonight..but then? Ha...." If prompted, she'd probably continue on...it played back behind her eyes like an old movie reel. The violence,the hate she began to feel,all tied up in power and passion that made her sick to remember.-
XShesInDeniaLx [9:05 P.M.]: " I beggedhim to mark me,Serene. Hadn't been done for centuries in our order. And you know how much of a bitch it is for a vamp to scar.",she slid up a sleeve to show the pinkish star clusted on her left wrist. " Like a bitch."
ad x lunam [9:05 P.M.]: Serene nodded, glancing at the mark. "You truly loved him, didn't you? Or..do?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:07 P.M.]: " He'll always be the god of my idolatry,"she smiled a little wistfully...Old Will Shakespeare certainly was fitting. " But it's not worth the hell. I know the order's in ruin...he wouldn't be fighting so hard if it weren't. I don't wish him harm. But I don't want him around,either."
ad x lunam [9:09 P.M.]: Serene nodded. "Understood." She let out a low breath. "Alright...Then shall we gather the supplies?"
XShesInDeniaLx [9:11 P.M.]: While a bit surprised she hadn't elicited more of a response,Lakota nodded," Lead the way." She was determined to deal, and well, it was Serene anyway...she figured a little trust was necessary.
ad x lunam [9:12 P.M.]: Serene offered a smile and turned, heading into the mansion. "You can use your room anytime, like I said. Your stuff should still be there..." Glancing over her shoulder, she continued, "I'll go get the needed ingredients.."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:14 P.M.]: On risk of making an ass of herself, Lakota stuck to nodding as she brushed past Serene and upstairs.
ad x lunam [9:18 P.M.]: Serene went into her office, carefully choosing items from a cabinet behind her desk. Holding a blade with utmost care, she smiled slightly in remembrance. Continuing, she gathered the rest of the needed materials and went out back inot the garden
XShesInDeniaLx [9:22 P.M.]: Upon entering her old room..well it wasn;t hers so much as she had a few bits of clothing in the wardrobe..Kota was at a loss of what to do with herself. She knew she couldn't touch any ritual component until Serene gave her the okay,but other than that...Sighing,she shucked off her jacket and peeled off her grey shirt..they smelled like dust and smoke from the factory and it was killing her nose. Rummaging through the drawers,she pulled on a simple white shirt...*oh look,only 2 minutes wasted...* before-
XShesInDeniaLx [9:22 P.M.]: stalking back out into the hall.
ad x lunam [9:25 P.M.]: Serene carefully walked the permiter of a circle she created, making sure there were no open spaces. Once sure, she set the blade on the small pedastol she had sitting in the center of the circle. 'Come, Lakota.' She closed her eyes and sent the message, feeling for Lakota's energy. 'It is ready when you are.'
XShesInDeniaLx [9:34 P.M.]: No matter how many times she felt it, the pull of another in her mind made her skin crawl. She sighed,following the mental trail out across the back porch and out into the gardens. She paused momentarily outside the circle,shifting anxiously until she was bid to go further.
ad x lunam [9:38 P.M.]: Serene turned to her, and held out her hand, curling the fingers in a beckoning motion. "Enter the circle, Childe, and transfer your loyalty to me." Yea, she was being formal, but hey, that's how she was raised!
XShesInDeniaLx [9:42 P.M.]: Lakota almost cracked a smile at the formality, but it was something she was accustomed to. However, the situation wasn't very funny,and despite her resolve to continue,her fingertips trembled the slightest as she reached for Serene's outstretched hand in order to enter to circle.
ad x lunam [9:43 P.M.]: Serene was patient, and utterly calm. She waited for Lakota to be calm enough to enter the circle, her hand still reaching. It didn't bother her that Lakota was almost afraid. It was normal, in this type of thing. And she was pretty sure the whole formal deal wasn't helping much, either.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:46 P.M.]: Normally,she'd crack a joke,but well,hardly the time. Dropping her hands to her sides,Kota stood quietly..until curiosity got the best of her. Brow raised,she glanced at the pedestal and its blade,then Serene," Well innit that pretty." And whoever said vampires didn't mind the cold was an idiot...she surpressed a shiver,feeling naked without her coat
ad x lunam [9:47 P.M.]: Serene smiled slightly. "Yes, it is pretty." She tilted her head curiously. "Have you ever witnessed a bonding?" She questioned.
XShesInDeniaLx [9:49 P.M.]: She shrugged, folding her arms loosely over her chest," Once. Didn't really pay attention,cosnidering it didn't concern me."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:52 P.M.]: "Probably should've taken notes,yeah?",she smirked a bit, really just wishing the niceties would end so well...this mess would be over finally
ad x lunam [9:52 P.M.]: She smirked in return. "no, it's fine. It's just that then you;d know a bit more." Picking up the blade, she motioned to Kota to come closer. "Hold out your wrist."
XShesInDeniaLx [9:54 P.M.]: Kota slowly rolled up both sleeves, holding out both wrists to Serene's scrutiny. "Take your pick,luv...Though,er, what I do remember was a lot of teeth. Not so much knife."
ad x lunam [10:09 P.M.]: Serene 'hmphed, with a grin. "Well, I do things a bit differently. or at least, it's how I was shown." Taking Kota's right wrist, she carefully cut a thin line across the vein, then did the same to her own left wrist. Placing her bleeding wrist to Kota's, she pressed them together so that the blood mixed.
XShesInDeniaLx [10:11 P.M.]: She barely flinched when cut, frowning a bit at the process. " Well that was anticlimactic."
ad x lunam [10:12 P.M.]: Serene snickered. "Give it a moment" She said softly. It was easy to tell the magic was rising, causing tjhe blood to heat to a boiling-like temp as it mixed between them
XShesInDeniaLx [10:15 P.M.]: "Um..." Well,it wasn't exactly eloquent, but the confusion was evident. The heat was a shock,really; clawing it's way up her arm and out again in a wave only to return. Kota fought to urge to breathe as it ebbed, shooting the Elder a questioning,wary look.
ad x lunam [10:16 P.M.]: Serene smiled slightly. "The transfer of powers." She said simply.
XShesInDeniaLx [10:17 P.M.]: "Way to be cool and collected,"she grumbled while holding back a slight grimace of discomfort. " If my arm rots,I think I may be a little cross."
ad x lunam [10:18 P.M.]: "Oh, your arm isn't going to rot. Might be a bit sore, but not rot. Silly." She grinned. "See, I have different powers then Crighton...and now you do, as well."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:21 P.M.]: Apparently,the frown she'd sported was goingto dominate for a while. "So I don't have the lovely ability to be a bastard and affect moods anymore?,"she questioned while examining her own wrist, brining it to her mouth to lap at the slight trickle that still flowed. It was a small shock,the difference between what was obviously serene, and used to be crighton. 'Bloody hell."
ad x lunam [10:23 P.M.]: Serene rolled her eyes. "You have both."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:25 P.M.]: "Har-har. So em...That's it?"
ad x lunam [10:26 P.M.]: Serene laughed. "Pretty much. And you keep the pendent, understood?"
XShesInDeniaLx [10:30 P.M.]: "Going to be shocked with abilities I don't know about yet?" She was trying for funny, but she didn't quite feel it. " Sure. Wear it like a badge,I will,"she snarked,managing a bit of a smile that was more of a grimace," So er...that was entirely unecessary..all I um, said earlier...Wasn't it. And um...Shite." She cursed quietly, sliding her sleeves back down to cover the healing cut," You realize," she asked quietly," I've never gotten anything for nothing...So..."
ad x lunam [10:30 P.M.]: Serene blinked. "What do you mean, never gotten anything for nothing?>"
XShesInDeniaLx [10:31 P.M.]: She matched Serene blank look a moment before shaking her head and turning back towards the house. " Nevermind. Another *old habit*."
ad x lunam [10:31 P.M.]: Serene narrowed her eyes. "Tell."

XShesInDeniaLx [10:34 P.M.]: Lakota realized she had choices here. She'd gotten what she'd called for...but that would be pandering to all the shit she'd told Serene earlier about her past. And here she was even bothering to fall back on it. She could walk...but she wouldn't. She paused in her walk back,but didnt turn," I don't have a way to repay. And the only way I know,well. Hardly going to be an accepted offer."
XShesInDeniaLx [10:38 P.M.]: " So,thanks is what I've got. I'll go in and wander,if that's allright. Or I'll stay and we can do that whole talking thing you like to get me to do and I'm not that good at." Looking back over her shoulder,she smiled a little,though a small amount of worry showed through.

[[FIN~! For now...tbc]]