Wanderers on the Road

[guardtherealm]

I crawl out from the small cave I had been taking shelter in.  My whole body was on fire with the hunger.  The only blood I had were already dead animals, and their blood was foul.  Looking around, my senses are still heightened despite my terrible physical state.  I smell the animals around, smell dirt and night.  Grabbing my small satchel, I start toward the edge of the road, that I had stumbled up the day before.  But no travelers yet.  Creeping along the road, hidden by shadows, I walk without a destination, just hoping to drink.  "just one drink" I say aloud.  "one drink and I can think".  With my family dead, my lands burned.  There is nothing to return too.  But a life without purpose is a waste.  "just one drink, and you can think" I say again.  Then a smell.  Fire.  Smoke.  The burning in my body eases at the new smells.   I let my nose slowly lead me toward the smoke.  The smell grows stronger, but still no light is seen in the dark.   My feet carry me onward, the smell getting stronger. New smells are arriving.  Flowers, bread, blood..... Getting closer, a light appears faint in the distance. I slow my pace more, and take a wide path around the light, slowly getting closer to its source.....

[guardtherealm]

I crawl out from the small cave I had been taking shelter in.  My whole body was on fire with the hunger.  The only blood I had were already dead animals, and their blood was foul.  Looking around, my senses are still heightened despite my terrible physical state.  I smell the animals around, smell dirt and night.  Grabbing my small satchel, I start toward the edge of the road, that I had stumbled up the day before.  But no travelers yet.  Creeping along the road, hidden by shadows, I walk without a destination, just hoping to drink.  "just one drink" I say aloud.  "one drink and I can think".  With my family dead, my lands burned.  There is nothing to return too.  But a life without purpose is a waste.  "just one drink, and you can think" I say again.  Then a smell.  Fire.  Smoke.  The burning in my body eases at the new smells.   I let my nose slowly lead me toward the smoke.  The smell grows stronger, but still no light is seen in the dark.   My feet carry me onward, the smell getting stronger. New smells are arriving.  Flowers, bread, blood..... Getting closer, a light appears faint in the distance. I slow my pace more, and take a wide path around the light, slowly getting closer to its source.....

Should I switch from first person?

[Snapespersephone]

I am sitting next to the fire trying to get warm and nibbling on the single loaf of bread I took from my family's kitchen when I made my escape tonight. I knew I had to get out of that house when father said he had agreed to marry me to that awful Lord Sinclair. he was 76, fat as a hog, and smelled of sweat and pee. I slowly slide a few mushrooms I found on the road on to a handy stick and place them over the fire to toast with a small chunk of bread. The cold wind roars around me causing my flames to dance and me to shiver and move closer to it. I look into the darkness when I hear a stick snap and call out "Hello is someone out there? I have nothing to interest you."
(No that is fine)

[guardtherealm]

Startled by the voice coming from the other side of the fire I freeze.  I curse myself for making myself known.  Do I reply, fall back, or continue on quietly.  I decide to circle around the fire, and get a better angle on the person sitting there.  Is she alone?  I take another step, and a stick cracks under foot.  For a vampire I sure am loud, I think to myself.  Blood.   One word comes to mind.  Standing tall, I try to make myself look less dead and step from the shadows.  Her face is hidden by the light from the small fire.  The small stick in her hand quivers at the sight of me.  "Are you alone?" I ask gruffly.  My voice not accustomed to speaking aloud.  I take a few steps closer, but keep the fire between us.  I pull the hood of my cloak further over my face as the fire light burns my newly strengthened eyesite.   "Do you have any animals?"  "Where is your horse?"  Feeling weaker I stand still, and stare at the teenage girl sitting on the ground across from me.  She shivers as the wind blows through the small clearing...

[Snapespersephone]

I drop the stick in the fire at the sound of the voice in the dark, and my eyes widen as a tall figure steps into my firelight. "oh...err...I have no animals or a horse. I actually walked here." I look around nervously "uh where is your horse, or did you walk here as well?" the things that I learned in my schooling kick in and I lean back with a smile so you can see I am harmless. "If you are hungry you are more then welcome to the little I have" I reach down to grab my remaining bread and slice my finger on my small blade by accident. "oh bother just take a seat while I try to clean this if you please" I look around my small area for other intruders and then lifting my skirt slightly I tear of one of the ruffles on my petticoat. 

[guardtherealm]

Primal vampire instincts kick in at the sight of the blood.  I pounce with a speed I didn't know was possible, grab the girl and bring her throat to my mouth.   A brief glimpse reality flashes across my ravaged mind for a moment, and I fall backwards kicking away from the girl, who is lying frozen with fear on the ground.  "I am hungry.  I need blood... I feel wea.."  I trail off, my mind is a pulsing at the smell of her fresh blood.  My wife, my daughters, would I drain them of their life for my own... She is a stranger, I think to myself.  All alone, no one will know she is gone.  My body ignores any rational thought that may still exist.  It lifts off the ground and starts slowly walking towards the girl.  The cut on her hand bleeds through the fabric torn from her clothes.  "I am sorry" I say, as I fight against the primal urge that is pulling me towards her.  I do not move with the speed from earlier, I am weak from that initial burst at the sight of her blood, and something deep down is trying to keep me from draining her dry...

[Snapespersephone]

Looks up at you with wide frightened eyes. "if it would help you I would allow you to take a small drink, but please try not to kill me." I lean forward pulling the hair away from my neck and accidentally spreading blood over it as well. "don't worry I would rather take my chances with you then ever be found by my Father's men." reaches a shaking hand out to you and tries to look reassuring as well.

[guardtherealm]

I take you by the hand, and lower myself to your level.  Looking you in the eyes.  They are scared, but strong.  You do not pull away, and I slid a hand across your stomach, grabbing you by the small of your back, and bury my teeth into your neck.  Blood explodes into my throat, and my body rejoices at the heavenly life source flowing into me. Both my hands grab you around the waste and pull your neck into me, and I drink deeply.  Too deeply, and you start to push back against me, but I am too strong.  Your blood too sweet.  I keep drinking you, and feel your pulse slow as i take all of the blood I can into my now strengthening body.  Blood pours from your neck and covers half of your body.  One hand hold the back of your head, the other is holding your body against mine.  I pull away from you and your body is limp.  Starting to feel cold, and your eyes have lost the glisten I noticed earlier.  No breathe escapes your now blood red lips.  Dead.  I killed the girl.  After she offered to save me.  I am a beast.  Then I remember the night I was turned.  The band of vampires flew through my small keep and ravaged everyone.  I remember my last breathe drawing from my lips, and the two vampires feeding on me cut themselves with an obsidian blade.  Then let their blood flow into my mouth as I was dying.  They laughed.  They laughed, because I would die then awake to my world ruined, unable to live as I once had. 

I bite into my forarm and let the blood flow into the girls mouth.  The bite marks on my arm heal over, and she is not yet alive.  But then her eyes look alive. She is staring at me.....

[Snapespersephone]

I open my eyes feeling a little hazy and stare up into a blood covered monster. I try and back up letting out an ear piercing scream. After a few moments I regain my composure and look at you. "Did you get enough? are you still thirsty? If you are still thirsty you could take me with you. I promise not to be a bother really. I wont eat to much and I will be a companion of sorts. I am of age of course to be out I am going to turn 20 in a few days."
I look hopefully up at you as I do not like traveling alone and you seem just big enough and scary enough to keep me safe on the roads. I wait patiently for an answer as I try to clean up my campsite somewhat.

[guardtherealm]

You are rushing around acting as if all is well.  Little do you know that you are now a monster like me.  Only 19 and now doomed to a life of blood lust, and uncertainty.  "Stop, stop cleaning.  You died while I was feeding on you."  I sit on the ground feeling light headed from the over indulgence of your blood.  You still go about trying to make yourself presentable and picking up random things around camp.  "It may be best if you stick with me now.  My thirst will return, but now yours will as well."  You are half ignoring me, not wanting to believe what I am saying. I get angry "Look at me!"...

[Snapespersephone]

I turn and glare at you, "you are wrong I could not be like you I am going to be twenty and then I shall be on my own to make my own way. I couldn't possible be a blood thirsty monster now I don't feel any diffrent. Are you sure your not just mistaken? Yes yes that must be it your mistaken." I nod and go about my cleaning trying to convince myself that I feel fine and that my throat is not burning in thirst. I then go to get my bedroll and turn to glare at you "I am going to sleep and if you have no bedroll of your own you shall freeze in the night." I lay down wrapped in my blanket and promptly burst into tears.

[guardtherealm]

Not knowing what to say or how to make you understand, I start to tell you of the night my keep was attacked.  You lay there silently sobbing, listening to the horrors I experienced only a short while ago.  I tell of how the band took my wife and daughters from me.  Took my men and burned my farmlands.  Only 4 men and 2 women perpetrated all of this madness in one night.  They dashed about with inhuman strength and agility, only caring for their own blood thirst and desire for evil.  I told you how when I awoke I was the only one left living, and they had let me die just before giving me their blood and turning me into one of them.  Then I tell you of how I drank to long from you, and then gave you my blood to make you one of me, but alive again. 
"I am truly sorry my dear, you are the first human I have drank from.  I was near death, and you made me strong again."  I looked at you laying there in your blood spattered dress.  "I will care for you.  It is my duty.  I feel that we are bonded now.  I made you what you are, and now must care for you as though you are part of me."  I walk over and sit down next to you, putting a hand on your shoulder.  "It will be ok dear.   You and I will figure this out together, we will not become like those who slaughtered my family.  We will learn together, and over time make a life for ourselves.  Cry if you must, but believe the words I am telling you."  You turn your head to me, and I see you have been crying tears of blood.  I would try and wipe them away, but we dont have a clean spot of fabric between the two of us.  "You must clean yourself.  A young lady such as yourself, does not deserve to look so ragged"  I take your hand and sit you up.  "What are you feeling?"

[Snapespersephone]

"A little bit of shame and sadness for my lost life, but I do have clean cloths for myself in my bag and I might have a clean shirt that would fit you. I kinda grabbed all of the clean cloths from the laundry on my way out. I reach over and pull a bag towards myself pulling out a fresh dress for myself and a shirt for you. I also have some soap to clean up with if you don't mind smelling like lilacs and we can find water." I look down at my hands, "I am sure together we can learn to not be the monsters who created you, and if it helps I do forgive you for my own death. I know it was most likely not intentional." I smile slightly and hold out my blood covered hand, "I am Liliana and who might you be?"

[guardtherealm]

"I am Lor.. ahh I should get use to dropping the lord part.  Call me James. "  I take your small blood covered hand in mine and see the hope in your eyes. "Your family will be looking for you.  If you value your life, we should put as much distance between us and your fathers lands as we can.  I know your father and he is not a prudent man.  The band of vampires may also still be around, and we would do well to not be her if they decide to strike your families keep." I realize the mistake in talking of harm to your family.  "The vampires were heading south, away from here. I am sure they are long gone, and you father should be recieving word of my castle falling shortly.  Come, I slept near a stream last night, not far from here.  We will clean ourselves, and prepare for the coming daylight, and leave as soon as the sun sets tomorrow.  We will stick close to the roads at night, and do our best to keep our thirst to a managable level.  Sunrise is only a few hours off."  I drop your hand, grab your small bag and start off towards the stream.  You stand there processing everything..

[Snapespersephone]

"Wait if you know my father then you know he intended to marry me off to Lord Sinclair. wait your walking to fast James." you keep pulling ahead of me, as I am hampered by all of my layers, and with a huff I throw a dirt clod at your head. "Wait up you."

[guardtherealm]

"Listen Liliana, time is running out and we cannot be caught in the sun.  Believe me I felt if for a few moments, and I wish it upon no one.  Yes your father was an idiot selling you off to Sinclair, you were smart to run.  A smart, young girl like you can take this world if she tries."  I see you struggling to catch up to me with all your layers.  I walk over to you lift the one layer of your dress quickly, grab the underlayers and rip them away with lightening speed.  You are left standing there in a flat falling dress.  "There now you can move quicker, use my knife to lose some of the length.  Oh and lose the shoes, your body will heal anything that hurt you, and honestly you wont feel much of anything anyways."

[Snapespersephone]

Stands in shock for a moment before kicking off her shoes and lifting her skirts to run after you. "I will trim my skirt when we rest." Walks next to you admiring the scenery and and the feel of the ground under my feet. "Where are we going anyway? You never did tell me that" continues walking and listening to the owls burning up with curiosity and the wish to talk about anything. "Are we there yet?"

[guardtherealm]

"I married my wife when she was your age, I was already 30, she talked just as much" I quicken my pace. "Right now we are headed to a stream, then to a small cave I slept in night before finding you.  Then I think we strike towards the coastal cities.  They are bustling with people of all sorts, and we will be able to blend in and find blood easier."  The blood has made me strong, and I feel amazing.  I also feel good to have a companion to share the experience with.  Yes, I feel bad, but she is lovely and although she talks a lot she will help make this easier, as long as I can keep her alive.   Our pace has picked up considerably, and I smell the fresh water and hear is bubbling.  I stop and turn towards you. "I want you to feel your new senses.  Do you smell the water or hear it.?  We are close now.  Only a few more minutes.

[guardtherealm]

(How are you feeling this is going? I'm up for any changes or anything you feel let me know.)

[Snapespersephone]

I sniff the air, "oh yes I can hear and smell it." start towards the water. Well if you got married at 30 how old are you now? how did you two meet? was it arranged? Oh oh did you love her?" I am happy to have a companion as well even if he turned me into a monster like him. in the right light he is very handsome in the wrong light just cute. My mind begins to wonder to my youth and my home before my mother passed away in childbirth. When Papa was still his friendly self and did not view me as a means to make more money by selling me to the highest bidder. I Begin to wonder about the character of my new companion as well. Was he a drinker before he was turned? if he had a daughter would he have sold her into a bad marriage to make money.
{I think it is going well how do you think it is going?}

[guardtherealm]

(I am enjoying myself)

"it was an arranged marriage, our fathers struck a deal on land, Her father became my father liege and that was it.  However we fell madly in love over the first year and had two beautiful daughters.  One was 12 the other 17.  The older was growing into a strong woman, and had suiters coming to pay her visit weekly.  She would have had her pick of the realm.  But now, she gets nothing." I see the pain in you now, see you missing home slightly.  "Are you sure you want to leave? If your father loves you he will create a life for you.  I can promise I am a just and honest man.  Yes I have killed others in battle, and lived a rowdy youth, but I will care for you if you stay.  But if you must go and return home I will help you with that as well. Now here is the spring, lets us clean ourselves and then we can make the tough decisions."  I strip my shirt of showing my strong and scarred torso.  Deciding its better to keep my pants on in front of the young lady, I step into the water and begin cleaning the blood and grime off....

[Snapespersephone]

I strip down to my camisole and drawers and begin washing as well pulling out a small bar of lilac scented soap and bend over to wash my hair as well as the golden curls are now quite matted with blood I then look over self conscious of my wet sheered cloths and smile softly, "here is the soap be sure to wash up well with out shame. I will go to the other side of that tree to put on try cloths and trim my skirts." I then step out of the water my wet cloths clinging to me and go to the trees to change and put my hair up again like a proper lady.

[guardtherealm]

Standing in the water, I cannot help but stare at your figure under your wet clothes.  I catch myself and grab the soap and turn quickly away blushing.  What am I a teenage boy, I think to myself.  "Fine, go and get ready, we should be getting to our cover soon. The cave is just over the bank there and in the only rock outcropping once you are on top."  I begin to lather the soap and wash my face and matted dark gold hair.  I lift my head and look your direction to catch one last glimpse of your figure, then you step over the bank above me, and dissapear.  I smile, and am glad that my human desires have not left me.  Then drop my whole body into the cold water and feel more alive that I ever have.  My shirt is ruined, I grab my ruined shirt and  towards the cave, where I figure you have gone.  I call out "Lilian, are you there? I am about to crest the hill and dont want to startle you."  I continue walking without hearing any noises coming from you, and crest the hill.

[Snapespersephone]

I am hiding behind a tree watching the cavern as a man goes through it with a torch cussing to himself. I hear you on the path and pull you next to me whispering so only you can hear me. "that is my father's man when I heard footsteps I dropped my bloody cloths and ran for the trees. He seems to be looking for the animal that ravaged me." I giggle softly, "he doesn't want to go back to my father with out some dead animal that can be blamed for his meal ticket dying. What are we going to do I can go out to get in the cave until he leaves and I doubt there is a bear or wolf in that cave."

[guardtherealm]

"the only thing in that cave are few old bones, and the remains of some bloodied meat I had eaten.  I do not think it will be enough to satisfy a man such as your father, but this man here may believe it to be a wolves den, and that the few remains are yours."  I watch the brutish man kick dirt around and then the man enters the cave and walks back out with a bloody stump of meat.  He smells it, and turns away disgusted.  I look at you, and you are smiling at this.  She's a little devil I think to myself, I'll have to keep an eye on her.  I turn my attention back to the brute.  He doesn't seem satisfied and widens his search around the caverns entrance.  If he comes closer we will be seen.  I make a snap decision and dart from our hiding place, and take the man down before he has a moment to react.  I rip out his throat with my teeth, and bask in the taste of his warm blood.  I look over my shoulder to see you now standing there watching me.

[Snapespersephone]

I stand there is amazement frankly quite excited by what i see. "you protected me. you could have just let him take me you know. then i would be out of your hair and you would be free of the burden of taking care of a helpless female. Thank you so much James." Tears pool in my eyes at the thought of protecting me when you didn't have to and then I step forward to take a bite out of the man as well. Making sure not to let any part of my hair or dress touch the blood.

[guardtherealm]

"I told you I would care for you." I watch you carefully feed from your fathers man " I am guessing by how easy it was for you to feed on him, that you did not care for this man. If you decide to stay with me, we probably come across another search party.  Finding a lost young lady and returning her would make some mens dreams come true.  So, if we travel on together, you must be ready for anything, and not hesitate to protect yourself if I cannot."  I grab my water skin and kneal down next to you and start to let the blood fill the bottle.  "We should try and save some in case we do not come across other viable meals."  You ignore me, as you are deep in the mans blood and your body is filled with the Ecstasy of tasting it the first time.  My bottle fills, and I walk over to the cave.  "Liliana, the time is come. we must hide from the sun. I will dispose of the corpse now." I have to pull you off the man, and you fall back in a daze on the dirt, no longer thinking about your pretty dress and curls.  I pick the man up easily and sprint off towards the spring, the small stream widens a few feet down, and I toss the body in the water, hoping the small current will carry him far enough away to put off any attention.   The body floats, and slowly goes downstream.  I return to our camp to you still sitting there, so I bend down and scoop you up in my arms and carry into the cave...

[Snapespersephone]

I snuggle into your arms with a happy smile "Thank you for that. I was not a big fan of that man no he was not one of my father's nicer men and he protested me marrying outside of our keep." I look down slightly. "I didn't like most of my father's men to tell you truth."

[guardtherealm]

I let you hold onto me and put an arm around you to hold you tight.  It feels nice to have a caring body next to mine.  "So does that mean you are coming with me?"  I look innocent girl and know that if she joins me, life will be tough.  But if she returns, her father could think her a monster and kill her on site.  I lay you back and lie down next to you.  "You can think about it longer if you like. We have hours in this hole before dark." 

[guardtherealm]

(Hey Lady, I see you are approved.  I totally understand if you want to abandon this thread, it was fun to get the creative juices flowing.)

[Snapespersephone]

"No I will come with you for protection and companionship." I stand up and remove my dress again so I can sleep in my camisole and drawers, and I wont be bothered by my dress. Then I lay down next to you and snuggle in before closing my eyes. I can't get to sleep but not wanting to be a bother to you I try and stay still. and just go over my night in my head.
{nope someday you will be approved and we can do an adult RP together)

[guardtherealm]

"Honestly I am relieved that you are coming with me.  I feel bonded with you already, and was worried what your father would do to the two of us."  I lay my head down and try to ignore the beautiful, half clothed girl next cuddling next to me.   I think of the days past, and where we will have to go from here.  "Liliana, thank you for not hating me.  I did not mean for this to happen to you.  Tonight at dusk, we will start our new lives, and maybe someday we can look back on this and laugh."  I run a hand through your curls and listen to the day outside, and am actually content to spend the day laying with someone so lovely....

(Thanks)

[guardtherealm]

(I am off to conquer the real world for a bit, I will check back later.  This has been nice.)

[Snapespersephone]

I feel your hand in my hair and turn to look at you with a smile. "I am sure our new life will be pleasant of we stick together James. Most people would just assume we were newly married after all." I laugh to my self at the idea that you would have ever married me, and listen to the world outside as well.

[guardtherealm]

"Ha, married, more likely they will think you my daughter."  With that thought I pulled my hand from your hair and drift off into a dream like state.  Once again I am taken to my destroyed keep, but this time Liliana is there.  She is leading me away from the smoke, and terror. We run.  Hoards of vampires and men chase us.  Wolves with blood on their fangs bite at our heals as we dash across the burning meadows and into the darkest forest imaginable.  We are swallowed by the blackness of it.  Still being chased.  Liliana trips in the dark and our hands lose touch.  I scream "Liliana!!!". Then awake back in the cave.  Its dusk outside, only another hour of sun....

[Snapespersephone]

I climb out of bed when you go to sleep and sneak to the head of the cave to look out at the world passing me by. I sit there playing with my skirts and wondering about your comment about you being my father. You are younger then him and my intended husband after all. I am so lost in thought i don't hear you when you stir in the bed

[guardtherealm]

I look next to me, and see that you are gone.  Startled, I jump up and hit my head on the roof of the small cave.  It didnt hurt.  I then see your silhouette in the mouth of the cave.  The fading light surrounds you like a halo, and I am in awe.  Perhaps I would like it if people thought her my wife.  "Liliana, I was scared to death.  How do you feel?  How long have you been here? Has anyone passed?" I suddenly realize how many questions I just asked.  "I am glad you are here. We should be leaving soon. Is there anything you need?" Another question, when did I turn into the teenage girl.  Dumbfounded I sit down next to you, and stare at your face, rather than the sliver of sun setting on the horizon.  The sun doesn't burn my skin when its like this, that should be helpful...

[Snapespersephone]

"Oh sorry to have worried you sir. I couldn't sleep so I decided to watch the world." I look out the door again so you can't see the hurt that is still in my eyes. "I think the sun should be going down soon and i never bothered to unpack my bag, but you are more then welcome to see if any of the laundry in it fits you."

[guardtherealm]

"I took your fathers mans vest, I will look and see if there is a shirt that fits. Luckily we are traveling at night and don't need the best clothing.  And I am sure we will stumble across more."  You are looking away from me, a red tear streaming down your cheek.  "Liliana, I can see your pain.  If we are to travel and depend on each other we must be honest and open.  Talk to me if you wish.  If you don't, that is fine, but your troubled thoughts will probably only grow. And please don't call me sir, it makes me feel like and old man."  I wink at you, and go to get our bags.  Dressed and ready, I put a hand on your shoulder and ask if you are ready to go.  "Anything you need to say before we depart."

[Snapespersephone]

I climb to my feet and and start out of the cave. "No I am fine Si... I mean James. I am sure with time my pain will go away." I trudge on trying not to notice you as I kick myself for being weak and letting you see me cry. "anything you need to say?"

[guardtherealm]

"That it is a new day, ah er, night and we have the world at our feet. We strike west, stick to the shadows and hug the roads.  With our speed we should be at the coast in a few days, dammit nights time.  This new schedule is going to take some getting use too."  I kiss you on the forehead, and burst from the cave forcing you to follow.  We are still full of our lifes blood, and the two of us are practically flying through the forests.  We bound over fallen trees, and around rocks.  The roads are empty.  With word out of a missing lady, and bands of vampires no one wants to be out past dark.  Which unfortunately for the two of us, could be a bad thing.  After what seems like hours of running, I slow to a walk.  You are right by my side in a second, and I give you a look that says, holy shit, what did we just do.  "Well that was interesting. How many miles do you think we covered?"  The air smells different here.  I can't put my finger on it, I crouch down and urge you to do the same.  "Lets rest a moment.  Feeling ok, here drink this." I hand you the skin of blood.  It has thickened but is still palatable.

"Do you smell or feel anything strange here? I felt the air change a few miles back" I sit back on my elbows and let the night come alive to my senses...

[Snapespersephone]

I take a quick drink and then sniff the air. "we are in the Mad Dukes territory now James. Don't you recognize his signature scent of piss and sweat?" I point to a large house on the hill, "that is the house he "had built for me" as if that was going to force my hand into his." I scoff and stand up again to jittery to just stand still. "can we please get off this land James?"

[guardtherealm]

"We could pay the old duke a visit if you like.  Maybe burn down that castle there." I suddenly realize I am talking about doing the same thing that was done to my family.  Am I mad.  I feel amazing, not mad.  "I am sorry if that disturbed you, I just now you hate the man, and well, you are a terrible creature of the night now." I make a scary noise mockingly and try to get a smile out of you.  But you are lost in thought of what that old, crazy, fat man would have done to you.  "Liliana, come back to me." I say trying to get your attention.

[Snapespersephone]

I start marching towards the evil fat man's lair oblivious to you voice for the moment. I start planning his downfall of blood and broken bones. as I am just about to reach the path I hear you and turn. "James I am right here. As long as you want me I will never leave you, promise" I then turn and glare at the darkened house red tears staining my cheeks.

[guardtherealm]

"Well then, lets go pay the fat bastard a visit shall we."  I start to run along beside you, and we get cloers to the dark castle.  With our enhanced vision, we see a few guards milling about, but nothing out of the ordinary. I grab your hand and lead you around the walls, looking for a quiet unguarded place to sneak over the walls and into the castle.  Near the back side, there is an open window halfway up the wall.  No light comes from inside it.  I look at you, and take off running at the wall, and jump at the last second.   My feet hit the stone wall and keep running, pushing me up and through the window like a cat.  I land quietly on the floor inside, it is a store room and no one is around.  I poke my head back out the window and motion for you to join me.  Once we are both inside, I pull you close to me to whisper in your ear.  "Have you been inside these wall befor Lil? We need to find the mans bed chambers, have ourselves a nice drink, maybe stock up on some valuable items for our journey, then burn this evil place down as we leave.  If you know where his chambers are lead the way, if not well I am sure we can follow the stench."

[Snapespersephone]

"sadly i do know where the master bedroom is. I was meant to sleep there as well remember." I then motion for you to follow me a I make my way down the dark hall way and stop in front of a very ornately decorated door. "the bastard is in there but i want noting of him in me, so he is all yours and I will go look for a maid or go to the ladies room and get my bridal jewels."
I leave you there making my way down the hall and enter the next room. I pull open the wardrobe and pull out all of the cloths that had been made for me anyway, and clean the boxes of jewels and pin money. then I step out in the hall again to wait for you to dispatch the lord of the house.

[guardtherealm]

Stepping into the room, I can hear the nasty old man snoring.  On either side of him are two young, barely clothed girls.  I see you are deeply troubled by your young bride to be's disappearance, I think to myself.  Not wanting to waste any time I leap onto the bed, and land directly on the fat mans chest.  The three bodies in the bed jump awake and the two girls start screaming, even with all his wieght the old man cannot move.  My supernatural strength has him pinned.  I look over at the two girls who are screaming and trying to make for the door.  "Tell everyone of this, tell everyone the Mad Duke was drained by a vampire, tell them this was for Liliana."  I throw my head down into the stunned mans neck.  His blood tastes foul and I do not drink deeply, but rather let him die choking on his own foul blood.  I grab his jeweled amulet from the beside, put it in my pocket and on my way out of the room throw a blanket halfway into the roaring fire.  Within seconds the blanket is engulfed and the fire starts to spread around the room.  Dashing back through the door, I see you standing in the shadows, hiding from the chaos starting to arrise in the castle. "Hello love I say, full of exitement and energy.  Shall we leave?"  I grab you and give you a quick kiss on the mouth without thinking.  The excitement of the night has me worked up and I am embarassed for a second.  Then not wanting to hear your disgust, I grab your arm and we make it back to the storeroom and out the window, just as the fire bursts through the Mad dukes door, and out into the main Castle.  As we retreat to the nearby woods, to watch the display.  We can hear people screaming and running.  The fire grows, and the castle is almost to the point of not being saved.  I look at you, you stand there watching the flames with an evil grin and only a few tears.  "You are safe now Liliana.  He will never be able to touch you again."

[Snapespersephone]

I pull a bag out from under my skirts "I took all of my cloths from the room he had for me," I sniffle. "And I took my jewels back and a large quantity of money and gold as well." I bury my face and sobs rack my tiny body. "I was so scared James. I was afraid that if he saw me..He..HE would take me away from you. I don't want to be taken away from you ever." I look up at you the red tears having already stained my porcelain cheeks.

[guardtherealm]

I put my hand on your cheeks, and wipe away your tears leaving red streaks across your face. "He never even made it out of bed.  I promise as long as you are with me, I will keep you safe.  And that should be much easier with the amount of gold and money we have now." I pull out the Dukes amulet, show it to you and drop it in your bag.  Just then a loud horn blasted from the direction of the castle, and among the people streaming out the door, a large group of riders bolted from them, followed by a pack of blood thirsty hounds.  I look over at you.  "No time for sorrows not my love." I grab you and we both are running towards the coast again.  I do not let go of your hand, and keep looking back at your scared, sad eyes.  Wishing I could take your pain away.

[Snapespersephone]

we run like the wind until the sky starts to turn pink and I look to you for guidance. "Are we going to make it to a new hiding place James? Do you think we are even close?" I glance behind us and the far off riders and hounds. "please say we can I don't want to be hound food." I cling to you hand despratly but confident that you will save us both.
Son we come to the coast and a small cave just off shore.

[guardtherealm]

"I had no idea we would be able to move this fast. The great city of Manak, it only a few miles south of here.  Let us rest, and finish the small amount of drink I have here.  Tonight, we will make for the city and hopefully feel some sense of security."   We make our way into the cave as dawn breaks.  A few hours later, we smell the hounds and hear men searching only a half mile away.  I take you by the hand and we go further into the cave, using no light, just our strong vision and senses to guide us.  I pull you close to me as the cave narrows.    We finally squeeze into an interior room deep in the cave system. "We should be safe her for the time being." I hand you the skin of blood. "Drink, grow strong, your young body needs it."  I sit down, and pull out the spoils from our raid on the castle.

[Snapespersephone]

I take a good drink before handing it back to you. "did we get enough things to hold us for awhile? I mean I couldn't find you any cloths so you will have to buy some but i have a whole new wardrobe to hold me for awhile and I can mend what needs it." I look around our inner room with a smile and turn to you my eyes bright with excitement. "when we go to the city are we going to have a real place to stay? or is it always going to be caves?"

[guardtherealm]

"I would think this is our last cave for a while. I have an old friend in the city, who should be able to find us discreet accommodations. You deserve a soft bed, and a warm bath. As for clothes, I will get some as soon as we reach the city. My hunger is growing, as I am sure yours is too."  I lay back and am glad to no longer hear the hounds or horsemen.  Likely they have widened the search, and we should be deep enough in the cave to stay hidden.  I look at the young Liliana, and think of when my wife was young.  I hate to say it, but Liliana is even more beautiful that she was.  I smile at you, and lay my head down...

[Snapespersephone]

I lay next to you and smile looking up at you. "Oh i shall have my own room then? How will you explain me to your friend with he discretion?" I admire your noble features and get lost in a daydream of us actually having been married that makes me blush profusely as strange feelings course through my body. "he will not judge you for having a young unmarried girl with you will he? maybe we should just stay in the cave James"

[guardtherealm]

"He is a very old man, and a close friend of my father.  Last I heard he was a slave trader, so I doubt he will cast judgement on us.  However I will keep your true identity a secret, but seeing that word has definitely spread of you missing and the attack on my castle, I will present myself in my new form to the old man.  He has seen much and will not out us." I see you blushing and wonder what caused it.  I feel warm inside with you next to me.  "I am not sure if you will have your own room, or any room at all at this point.  But my friend is very crafty, so I am sure our quarters will be more than suitable for a girl of your status."  I think about what to tell the old slave trader, he has knowledge of my family, and has probably heard word of its demise.  He will be shocked to see me, especially now that I am a creature of the night.  I will say I saved the young girl outside my lands from the same band of vampires, and I had to turn her as well to save her.  But her features are too beautiful for a farm girl. I will say she was a ward of mine, and that she ran the night of the attack, only to be found by me on my escape.  "Just play along when we reach the city and I am sure we can make this work."   

[Snapespersephone]

"Oh I have complete faith that I will be safe with you so tell whatever story you need i will back it up with pleasure." I lay against you thinking of the kiss you gave me in your excitement and trying to formulate a plot to get it to happen between us again/ "Uh James about earlier...the...uh kiss? why did you do that?"feels like a fool the second the words leave my mouth and I wish I could take them back in an instant.

[guardtherealm]

"I was hoping that maybe you had forgotten.  The break in and fire, and all the excitement, it just happened.  I saw your angelic face in the chaos, and I could not help myself.  I am sorry." I feel ashamed, and pull away a bit.  What what I thinking, this girl could have had the pick of the realm, and here I am practically holding her capitive in a cave.  When we reach the city, I must treat her like a lady, and allow her to process all that has happened.  I try to go avoid going back to the terrible dream state, but cannot bring myself to say anything else to you.  I lay there in silence, hoping that tomorrow brings us some peace.

[Snapespersephone]

"No please don't shut me out James. I did enjoy your kiss it just made me feel strange is all. laying next to you and seeing you wash yourself does as well." hides my face in shame knowing that my feelings are wrong and you more then like do not return them. "Please just say something...anything just to stop me blathering on. Oh tell me to shurt up something please." tears rim my eyes as I pleads with you. Practically begging for attention.

[guardtherealm]

Feeling very exposed at your confession, I pull you close to me, and give you a soft kiss.  "Liliana, you do not need to shut up, I am just a much older man and am not comfortable in this situation. If you truly someday feel strongly about me, then maybe we can discuss it further.  But right now, I do not want to feel like a kidnapper."  I give you a smile and stroke your hair, letting my hand fall to your shoulder and pullng you close.

[Snapespersephone]

"you are in no way a kidnapper you saved me when you did not have to and turned me when you though I might die. That is not the actions of a kidnapper. That is the actions of a good and noble man." Pulls your face down and gives you a kiss of my own a little harder then I should in my excitement.

[guardtherealm]

I let the kiss happen and do nothing to stop it.  Having someone seem to care for me feels great after all I have been through over the past weeks.  I pull away, and sense that you feel comfortable with me.  I lay back and hold you there until our morning, the night starts to creep in.  "Lilian" I saw nudging you, as you seem in a far off place.  "The sun is setting, and we must hurry to the great city.  I would love to see you cleaned, fed, and bathed. I feel terrible that our first two nights together have been in a cave. Is there anything you need or want to say before we get out of here? We should stick to the beach and enter the city from beneath.  That way no guards ask questions as we enter."  I start to pack my few items into my bag, we are out of blood and must eat tonight.  I should get a knife, I say to myself...

[Snapespersephone]

"James can you please not tell this man anything that would prevent me from being kissed by you agian."  I say as I stand and pack up our meger camp grabbing a clean dress to change into, "did you wish to change as well?" with out thought I begin to remove all of my layers to put fresh new clothing on so I will look the proper lady I am.

[guardtherealm]

"I shall have the slaver send me new clothes to our room.  He should be able to get us just about anything we like."  At the moment I am liking you quite a lot.  My mind is a blur of thoughts and emotions.  You are slowly getting dressed allowing me to take you in for a bit.  You lift your head and give me a knowing smile. I turn away and adjust my bag.  "Come now, lets go find our entrance to the great city of Manak, and hopefully a new life for the two of us."  We make our way out of the cave slowly, pausing to make sure we are alone.  Once on the beach we can smell hounds and men off in the distance, luckily away from the city.  The smells coming from the city are a whole other thing a together.  Spices, trash, humans, salt water, fish, all come together and excite our senses.  We look at each other with wide and and dart of laughing down the beach.   We feel free for once and dance all the way to the great walls.  The walls surrounding the city are 100 feet tall and painted a deep blue to match the sea.  From afar the city almost disappears into the water.  Searching around we come to a drainage ditch leading under the roads within the walls.  I look at you "I hope this is the last we have to get ourselves dirty for a while.  But somehow I feel we are destined to get in trouble often. " I wink and we duck our heads and enter the tunnels.  After a few hundred yards we stop at a ladder leading upwards.  "Are you ready?'

[Snapespersephone]

"I am not climbing ahead of you in a dress James. It would not be at all proper." Motions for you to start climbing and then climbs after him.

[guardtherealm]

I smile. "You sure? I could give you boost if you need one and make sure you don't fall."  A little flirting never hurt anyone I thought.  I grab onto the ladder and make my way up, slowly and quietly I crack the cover and look around.  A few people down the road walking away and no other feet to be heard.  I look down and motion you to hurry and follow.  We plant our feet on the street and quickly make our way to the city center to the inn where I knew the old man was last known to be working from.  When the old man is on solid ground, he likes to stay holed up with whores in a nice hotel and run his business for a while.  Then its back to the sea and far off lands for slaves.  Once we are in the bustling city center I slow our walk to not look suspicious and let you take it all in.  "Beautiful isn't it? We can take our time if you like. Maybe trade some jewels for something if you want."  I let your eyes wander, and slyly take you by the hand to walk the amazing city.

[Snapespersephone]

I look around and a pet store catches my eye "oh look over," I point to a rather sad looking puppy. "Isn't he ardorable?" my looking is not lost on a passing male who approaches me with a smile.
"Oh my dear he is sad from lack of a beautiful young lady like you to pet and love him." he offers me a saucy wink and offers his arm. "Now if your Father will but let you go we can get a closer look at the little scamp."

[guardtherealm]

"Actually she is my bride." I answer so quickly it takes me by surprise as well.  The man gives me a sly look, "Oh, pardon me, I see the old man has fine taste in women.  Now make your bride happy and give her a puppy." He gives me an evil grin.  I look at you.  "I must admit it is a nice little thing, but maybe after we get settled.  I think we have enough trouble caring for ourselves right now." I take you by the hand and walk you away.  "Sorry about the bride thing, I am not sure what took over me.  Guess the kiss and the cuddling.. I don't know.  Do you have to have the puppy?"  I know deep down if you say yes I cannot deny you, your face is too sweet and I would hate to think that there were no more kisses in my future.

[Snapespersephone]

I look all starry eyed up at you actually give quite a bit a credence to the idea that I am in fact your bride and shake my head. "No I just wanted to scratch his furry ears, but I am sure once we ares settled James we will be able to find a puppy that is as good if not better then that one. Now kiss me so the nice man stops staring at me like that. He is kind of creeping me out."

[guardtherealm]

"Gladly" I grab you with a flourish and kiss you like new lovers would.  The old man gives a hoot, and we take off walking.  Both of us silent, thinking about the kiss and how fast we have come together.  We smile like school children.  After a few moments of walking, we come to a large inn, with two well dressed guards outside the doors.  The ornate sign above the door say, Welcome to the Inn of Aleswell.  "This is us."  I grab you by the arm, puff up my chest and walk up to the doors like we own the place.  The larger of the guard stops us and looks at my raggedy clothes, and your ladies dress. "She's more than welcome, but sir, get a bath and come back."  I step a bit closer to the man and look deep into his eyes menacingly "We were attacked on the road, I did not have a change of clothes, and I bought my young bride here the finest dress as soon as we reached the city, We want hot baths and a room"  While staring at the man, I had reached into your bag and grabbed a small bit of money.  I slid it into his hand, knowing it was more than he made in a week and walk through the door.   

[Snapespersephone]

Clings to your arm like a nervous new bride would and smiles shyly as we walk through the inn. I also take my time to look around the room before whispering barely audibly, "we are not going to eat here right? I don't think it would be very wise." As we walk some of the less desirable inhabitants look me over hungrily making me cling even harder to your arm. "James are you sure your friend is here?"

[guardtherealm]

"Oh I am sure, I can already smell him.  It's weird, I have not seen the man in close to 20 years, but I remember his smell.  We have the money right now, and are just off the road.  I saw we get a room, have some food and hot water brought to us, and relax, away from the prying eyes.  I will have to barman put in a note to Gandos the slaver and ask to see him tomorrow evening.  However, I assume he will call on me as soon as he receives the letter."  I hold you close and give a few people a dark look, my eyes must have acutally burned red because they each looked away quickly.  I reach into your bag once again, and pay for a large room, hot water which I learned is pumped into the room by a two poor kids out back, and raw meat and wine.  The barman doesn't flinch at the order of raw meat, so I ask for a glass of cows blood.  He gives me a small nod and I pay him handsomely.  A good innkeeper knows how to keep things quiet, and provide a man with anything he desires.  Knowing that Gandos is staying here, I feel confident this man is quiet.  He hands over a large brass key, and we head up the stairs..

[Snapespersephone]

We soon come to stand in front of a large door which after it is unlocked opens into a very ornately decorated bedroom with a tub already waiting by the fire. As I take stock of where we are to live for at least the next few days a lad of about 16 comes in hefting two steaming buckets an making cow eyes at me. He takes no notice of you as he fills the bath and turns to me with a smile, "would you be needing help with your bath miss? I can run down and grab a pitcher to wash your hair with." he smiles hopefully at me as his eyes travel over my small frame.

[guardtherealm]

"I think the lady can handle herself just fine." I give the boy a stern look and he hurries on his way.  "Well I am sure you would like some privacy to bathe in.  I will step into the bedroom while you bathe. Let me know if you need anything."  I walk off wishing I could just jump in that hot water with you.  I close the door, but leave it open a crack so I can still hear what is happening in the room. I dump our bags out on the bed and take stock of the money and jewels we have left..

[Snapespersephone]

I step into the tub and then come to the startling conclusion that I can not actually bath myself in the small tub. "Uh James if it is not a bother do you think you could come help me? I can't seem to be able to reach everything i need." I then sit in the tub letting my hair act as a curtain for my modesty.

[guardtherealm]

Startled, I come slowly into the room.  Steam rises from the tub, and your long curls fall over your chest.  I try not to stare, and ask what you need.  You smile, and point over to a bar of soap and scrubbing brush.  I bring them over to you, and am about to hand them over when I decided to take a different approach.  "Sit forward." You adjust in the tub, and I can see your long exposed back.  I get the soap and brush and start to massage your back and scrub away the grime of the road.  I massage your shoulders and use a rag to wet your dusty hair.  Wanting to clean more of you, but  not wanting to push things to far, I hand you the rag and soap, and with a wink say "Maybe you should finish the rest."  Then head back to the bedroom to get our things in order and wait for my bath.  Before entering the room, I look back and catch a glimpse of your bare side, as you bathe yourself

[Snapespersephone]

I wash the rest of my body clean of dust and road grim and then with a grin I call out again, "oh James would you be willing to give my hair a proper wash? It has been so long and I do love clean hair."

[guardtherealm]

With a large smile, I enter the room again. "I would love to."  I take the soap and lather my hands.  Then reach my hands around your neck and pull your long curls back and begin to wash them.  Taking my time to make sure they are clean, and because I am enjoying being this close to you in a state of undress.  I grab a bucket and fill it with warm water, and pour it over your hair and then proceed to wash it again.  "You know I may need some help getting clean as well. Would you like to sit and soak a while longer? I can bring your towel when you are ready."  Instead of leaving I take a seat on a soft chair in the room and watch you lean back in the steaming water and rest your eyes...

[Snapespersephone]

I soak for a bit longer before opening my eyes and smiling at you. "Mmmm I think I am ready to get out and dry off. Would you like to help me dry off James? Then I will go down to her the bath dumped and a new bath drawn for you. I doubt you would want the same dirty water I used."

[guardtherealm]

I bring you a towel, and you step out of the tub.  I am taken aback by you as you step into the towel to dry off.  Then I head to the door, and poke my head out.   The young boy from earlier is waiting.  "Please have more hot water pumped into the tub please."  I turn to see you pacing around the room in your towel.  "Liliana, I layed fresh bed clothes out for you, the wardrobe came stocked with sleeping linens.  Not that I mind seeing you in a towel."  Moments later more hot water begins filling the tub, and I salivate at the opportunity to sit a relax.

[Snapespersephone]

I make my way to the bedroom and pull the freshly pressed night dress over my head watching as it flows to my feet ending in a cute ruffle. I look myself over in the mirror enjoying the semisheer nature of my new outfit before coming out. "are you in need of any help James?"

[guardtherealm]

I am in a daydream about you in the tub when I hear your voice.  '' well I wouldn't turn down a nice scrub if you are offering. ''  I smile towards the door as you walk out in your night wear.  My jaw practically drops.  '' I'd have to say that you clean up quite nicely lilian.. You make a man blush. ''  as you scrub me a knock comes at the door and a note slides underneath...

[Snapespersephone]

I hand the soap and brush to you before rinsing my hands in your bath water and going for the note. "Oh it is adressed to you. would you like me to read it to you (obviously you would read for me) or would you like to read for yourself?"

[guardtherealm]

"I am assuming it is from Ganodos.  Feel free to read it to me.  I'd imagine he wants to see me as soon as possible."  Thank you Liliana..

[Snapespersephone]

(yea you need to tell me what it says)
I open the letter and then sitting on the floor begin to read to you. "Lord....

[guardtherealm]

'Lord Stanworth, I was disheartened to hear of your demise, however it seems you may not be as dead as one would have thought.  I would implore you to come to my quarters on the 3rd floor at your convenience.  Signed, Gandos the Great."

"Gandos the Great, huh, seems the old man has let his wealth go to his head.  Well then, I must see him immediately.  Would you like to come with, or if you like you can stay here and rest.  It is just day break, and I we have hours before we can leave, so feel free to relax."  I throw the letter into the fire, and go to the room and dress.  I come back out and take in your figure in your gown, words failing to leave my lips..

[Snapespersephone]

I smile at you as I grab a traveling cape from my bag pulling it around myself to hide my sinful nightdress. "Do I look ok to visit with your friend, or would you rather I stay behind so the two of you can be alone?"

[guardtherealm]

"No, I would love to have you there.  He will not be able to refuse a beautiful girl.  Maybe keep your cape undone a little and give the old man a little extra incentive to help us."  I wink at you with that and we head to the third floor.  Stationed outside his room is a strange looking man with tattoos covering his body.  He carries a long curved blade on his side and his hand reaches for it as we approach.

"Gandos already has a lady, take this whore elsewhere." the guard spits at us.

My primal rage kicks in and I take the man by the throat, and lift him off his feet.  His curved blade falls to the ground.  "She is my bride, and you will apologize. Then we are going to see Gandos, he sent for me."

The man gurgles out an apology and we head inside.  The room is dark and smokey.  Smelling of sweet opium smoke and perfume.  A dark skinned girl is curled up nude on the bed, and Gandos is bent over a thick ledger.  He turns to see us, and makes eye contact with you, then me, then you again.  I clear my throat to get his attention back.  He gets up slowly and comes over and embraces me.

"James it is so good to see you.  And your lady here.  I see you have moved on quite fast.  And you are so cold. Are you sick."

I give him a look, and the attack on my keep comes into his mind.  He realizes why I am cold, then looks at you.  "Her too."

"Yes, she was my wifes ward, her father is an small eastern lord who passed years back.  She is now in my care, and I mean to take her as my bride someday.  On my escape I found her dead, and had to turn her asl well to bring her back.  I come to you for help.  We need to start a new life, and I know how close you were with my father.  Please anything you can do with be repayed double when we are settled."

"Nonsense, you name it and it is yours. You were like a son to me as a child, and your father would curse me from the heavens if I turned you away.  What is it you need?"  I look over to you, and make a snap decision.

"A ship.  Or passage on one to the isles of Tortana.  The islands are weathly and take all who arrive.  We should be able to get started as traders or something from there."

"Lucky you, I have a ship leaving to Tortana in two days.  I can schedule it to leave at night, and you should be in the isles in a week. Are you sure she wouldnt be safer with me?" he gives me a laugh, "Go rest, anything you need just ask.  I will also have something to quench your thirst delivered in a few minutes."  We embrace again, and he goes back to the girl on the bed and his ledgers.

We reach our room and moments later the door knocks.  A young girl comes in wearing a slim, loose, blood red dress.  She walks into the bedroom and sits on the bed.  We look at each other and peek into the room.  She exposes her neck to us and says "Drink, I am here to fill you."

[Snapespersephone]

I look at her like she is crazy but then the smell of her blood  makes my mouth water and I approach her and gently bite her neck letting her blood fill my mouth as I gather her small frame closer to me trying my best not to hurt her while I drink.

[guardtherealm]

I watch you drink from her and am surprised how she seems to like it.  I know I am enjoying the show as well.  Walking forward I pull your head from her neck to preserve her life, and kiss you.  Tasting the blood from your lips.  Then I take her neck in my mouth and drink the energy into me.  She starts to grow pale, and I stop.  Laying back full and renewed.   She gets up from the bed, bows at us and leaves with a smile.  "Well that was interesting, I guess old Gandos thought we looked hungry.  Plus the man is an old perv, so we should have figured.  How do you feel about boarding a ship to the isles?  This country has nothing to offer us now, we would do better to be far away from prying eyes."

[Snapespersephone]

"it sounds lovely but I will not play at being your wife on the Isles. either We marry there or we are just companions almost like siblings. I will not compromise myself for any man James, and if you care you will not want me too. you have until we arrive on the islands to decided and then we will either start planning our wedding or start acting like siblings." I then lay beside you and close my eyes as if in sleep.

[guardtherealm]

This girl knows what she wants.  I lay there and think about your offer.  My feelings for her grow stronger by the moment, and I would hate to lose her.  Yes she would stay with me, but as a daughter or sister.  That would be fine, but I do not think I can not have her.  I take your hand and look into your eyes.  "Liliana, I would be the luckiest man on earth if you would be my wife, but I do not want you to make a rash decision.  Are you sure you can be a man in his 40's?  Are you even attracted to me that way?"  I hold you hand tight and push my body closer to you.

[Snapespersephone]

"yes of course i can be with a man in his 40's I always knew that my husband would have years and experience beyond my own. As for my attraction to you trust me it is there and has been for a long time. Now hush we must sleep if we are to go and get you cloths for our new life."

[guardtherealm]

The night comes with a quickness, I am becoming comfortable with you and am beyond words at the love brewing between us.  "We are lucky this city is bustling, I should have no trouble finding a shop open.  Would you mind picking the clothes for me, I have to admit to being terrible when it comes to fashion."  We leave the inn arm in arm, and on the way out I pay the inn keeper for another night, and have a another note send to Gandos thanking him for the ship passage and the girl.  We stroll the city, and I buy you an iced red wine.  Finding a shop is easy as there are a few to pick from.  "This one seems fine, shall we get some things for our trip?  Feel free get yourself something as well.  Also, I think I will trade the amulet and some of the jewels to Gandos for gold coins.  That way once we reach the island we can have the money to start our lives."  As we are stepping into the store I see a jewelers two stores down.  "Liliana, why don't you go in and start pulling some things together for me. I am going to go use the restroom down the street." 

Inside the jewelers I find a beautiful ring, it shines in the dark light of the room, and almost pulses with energy.  The stone is clear as mountain water, and on either side has two deep red stones the color of blood.  "I would like this ring my good man. "  He brings it out and my hands shake touching it.  Our funds are not unlimited, as most of my treasure was destroyed or trapped under my keep.  But Gandos will help us with more gold, and I do not worry about money when it comes to bringing a smile to Lilianas face.  I pay the man for the ring, put it in my pocket, and start trying to decide when to give it to you.

"Ahh Lili, it seems you have been busy."  The little old tailor is darting around pulling fabrics, and measuring.  He smiles at me, and runs into the back. 

[Snapespersephone]

"Oh yes I told my new friend Fredrick that my betrothed and I were to set out on our bridal trip and I was not sure what he or I would really need. He is being ever so helpful and those cloths that I got from the duke he said were unsuitable to my coloring so he bought them and has decided to make me a bridal trousseau in exchange for them and the ring that he gave me." I show you my naked finger and the now empty bag of clothing I brought along with us. "I hope I did it correctly James as I really was unsure of what was needed."

[guardtherealm]

'' I'd say you did perfectly.  Have Frederick load this all into a trunk and deliver it to our room at the aleswell Inn. We leave tomorrow night. ''  the ring grows heavy in my pocket.  I'll give it to her on the  ship, when we are surrounded by water and stars.   'we leave the store and walk hand in hand,  not talking just acting like a normal couple. 

' we should return to our room soon.  I would like to settle our money first.  Then we can relax until we depart.  ''

[Snapespersephone]

I nod and look around seeing the puppy again and tug on your sleeve. "may I go look while you settle the money? I have alittle bit of my pin money from my father left." My eyes shine with the thought of petting and cuddling with the puppies and maybe getting one of my own.

[guardtherealm]

'' I'm not sure I feel comfortable leaving you alone.  But I am just down the street.  Don't be long and come knock on the slavers door if I am not in our quarters.''  I squeeze your hand and kiss your forehead.  I practically run to our room not wanting to leave you for long.  The guard let's me right in and pull out our jewelry too  trade.  The slavers eyes glow and I know he will take it all.   The girl on the bed perks up as well and gandos throws her a necklace and looks at me. '' don't worry I'll pay you for it. ''

[Snapespersephone]

I walk into the pet store looking over the puppies oblivious to the man who followed me in as I go directly to the box of squirming puppies. "Oh look at you little cuddles bugs. Oh I know James would love your fuzzy faces too." I then reach down and grab a tiny brown and white furball cuddling it close to my chest, and then turn to look for the owner. As my eyes room the tiny shop they meet the man from the night before who smiles.
"Oh well if it isn't the mysterious princess who haunted my dreams last night." he walks forward to see which puppie I have. "Oh look the little guy is smitten with you. I must insist that you take him home with you." I open my mouth to ask the price. "oh no my dear I will not hear of taking your money. He is ment for you all I ask is a little kiss from you."
I start backing up clinging to the small animal. "no please I can't possible kiss you in exchange for a puppy. I will pay you and leave thank you." I reach for my small purse when he grabs my arm and yanks me against him.
"Now listen you little whore. I know that man is not your husband and your father or brother wouldn't kiss you like that. Now drop the act and give me what you are giving him." he presses his fingers into my arm making me cry out before he back hands me bringing up my rage. Before I can stop myself I am on top of him with my teeth about to puncture is throat.

[guardtherealm]

I'm enjoying a drink with the slaver when I feel a strong pain deep inside.  Without thinking I jump from my chair and am bursting into the store as your teeth sink into the man. The shopkeeper screams and I rip the man from you and throw him through a window to the street outside.   I grab you and we dart though the gathering crowd and sneak back inside the Inn. We reach our room and I notice you are still carrying the puppy.  'what was that all about. I knew I shouldn't have left.' '  the puppy squirms and jumps down.  '' looks like we have a new friend as well. ''

[Snapespersephone]

I drop to the floor sobbing  and covering her face in blood red tears. Then I lift up my arm that still has the handprint form where he grabbed and squeezed my arm and look up with the bruise still on me cheek." He called me a whore James, and said that he would geve me the puppy for a kiss, when I refused he squeezed my arm and slapped me. I just saw red I don't know how it happened. I just lashed out."

[guardtherealm]

'' you cannot help your reaction,  he was threatening you and being a vampire you reacted.  I do not fault you.  And look you have a new friend.  What should we call him? '' I hold you as the puppy comes over and starts to pick your  tears.  '' looks like he loves blood too. When I left gandos I did not have time to retrieve our money.   Stay here.  Lock the door and I will return shortly.  We made out quite well.''

[Snapespersephone]

I snuggle my new puppy and smile. "so my sweet new pet what shall I call you?" I lift him up to get a good look as he cleans my face with my toungue. "Oh stop it you little skamp I am trying to think. that is it your name shall be scamp."

[guardtherealm]

''I like it. I will see you and scamp shortly." I kiss you and head upstairs.  Gondos has my money on the table.  But next to our money is a pile of Gold bars.  Enough money to never work again.

"how much do you care about her?  This can all be yours.  All you have to do is sell her to me.  I will have sultans giving me their palace for a girl like that.  Oh and don't think you can fool me lord stanworth,  I know her true identity.  I assume you became afflicted,  killed your family and stole this young girl. I will not judge,  but I will not take no for an answer. "

" money has made you a wicked man gandos.  Keep your gold." I shove our gold into my satchel and turn to leave. 

"she's already boarding a ship. My man left as soon as you arrived.  Take the gold.  Leave.  Forget this happened."

I rage and kill him.  The whore  hides in the corner.  I take a few gold bars and tell the girl to take the rest and run. 
You are not in the room.  Scamp is.  The ship I think and run...

[Snapespersephone]

I watch you walk out the door and make to close the door behind you when it is thrown back and I am grabbed and thrown over a man's shoulder. My vision turns red again but  I blink it back and start crying like a weak female." Oh please let me walk I will be so good and I was so scared." I feel his indecision and then he speaks up.
"You promise not to run if I put you down to walk?"
"Oh yes sir I will be just as good for you as I was for that horrible man." I sniffle and smile to myself when he sets me on my feet.
"why would a man like that want such a small thing?"
"Oh you will never understand." I say sadly then throw him in the alley next to the inn and jump on him, "but you will serve a purpose don't worry." I rip his head to the side and attack his neck drinking like a starving woman.

[guardtherealm]

I reach the docks but cannot find your sent.  No ships are leaving.  I frantically ask of ships have left,  has anyone seen you.  Nothing.  I retrace my steps back hoping to feel you.  I don't feel that you are in harm.  I find my way back to the Inn.  Sneaking up to see if gandos has been found dead.  The Inn is quiet.  Good.  I should have some time before light and him being found. 
I climb the Inn and enter from a trapdoor on the roof and head to our room. 

[Snapespersephone]

I am sitting on the bed with the tub in front of the fire. "oh good you are back. I called for another bath as I am all bloody again." I smile showing my blood stained teeth. "How did your meeting go?"

[guardtherealm]

I dive onto you and kiss you deeper than I ever have.  "I'm imagining you know how the meeting went. Are you ok?  Gandos is dead,  but I'm thinking this ship will be leaving still.  We should be able to catch it as long as gandos isn't found dead before then."

I sit with you and feel relieve and impressed that you took care of yourself against a much larger man. 

"can we just get to see without any more excitement?  I'm needing a break from worrying about our safety. " I add another log to the fire  and sit back heavily...

[Snapespersephone]

I look ashamed and throw a satchel at him "your friend sent a man for me with our travel documents. he grabbed me and then foolishly let me down so I..." I sniffle, "I threw him in the alley next to the inn and drank my fill, and then I filled the water skins with his remaining blood and the blood of a man who tryed to help when he thought I was attacking the man. I am so sorry James"

[guardtherealm]

"apologize?!  No you protected yourself,  you learned your strength.  And with these documents we should have no trouble gaining passage.  You amaze me more every moment.  I will leave you to bathe once again and I will be in the room packing our things in the trunk Frederick brought." I go to the room but leave the door open.  I am not taking my eyes off you anymore.

[Snapespersephone]

I watch you go and let the boy in when he brought her steaming water, and watched him leave before locking the door. I then made my way to the fire and threw my bloody cloths in the fire to hide the evidence.  I then sink into the very warm bath with a audioable moan. When I have socked and washed what i can I call out, "James dear can you come and help me again? please I really feel the need of being spoiled and bathed."

[guardtherealm]

I pull up a chair behind the tub and scrub your back and wash your hair.  I massage your shoulders and tell you a story from when I was your age and fought in the revolution.  I ache to join you in the water but hold myself back.  Not until we are married will I take this further.  She is a lady after all. 

I leave and finish packing,  you join me in them room.  "only a few more hours."

[Snapespersephone]

"I am very excited James. I want to start our new life so much."

[guardtherealm]

"as do I.  We came together by terrible circumstances,  but it seems as if it were meant to be.  If we had not found each other I can't imagine  what would have become of us.  I will take a look in gandos room before departing to make sure there is nothing we need,  the  we can be rid of this land."

I daydream of tropical islands,  and you,  and of better times.

[Snapespersephone]

"Oh yes please. I want to be out to sea and in your arms as soon as possible."

[guardtherealm]

The night finally comes and we send for a boy to carry our chest.  I make a quick scan of the third floor, and nothing is amiss.  Entering Gandos room, I am greeted by a foul stench.  Hurridly I just grab his leadgers, and a small black book of contacts.   We arrive at the ship and it is beautiful.  Lanterns light the ramp, and the whole ship is alight with glowing lamp light.  The ships captains comes to great us as Gandos guest, little does he know I ripped his throat out only hours before. 

"Come, your ship awaits." The captain gestures.

We follow him onboard and after a brief tour, we are taken to our small, but well appointed quarters.  "I will see you two love birds whenever  you are ready to come up deck."  He leaves us alone. 

"Well no turning back now." I say and laugh.  It feels good to leave this cursed land, and be with a beautiful woman.

[Snapespersephone]

I turn to you with a confused look, "what did he mean James?"

[guardtherealm]

"I had Gandos, before his untimely demise, send a note to the ship saying we were a newly married couple on their honeymoon.  The ship only has a crew of 7 right now, so we practically have the ship to ourselves.  Once they drop us off, the crew of 40 more men, and a load of goods and Id imagine a few slaves will board.  We should be thankful we are not on that journey.  Let's drop off our stuff, and head to the deck.  There is something I would like you to see."  I help you unpack our things, and suggest we change clothes. 

I open the chest, and pull out a new tunic and linen pants.  Putting them on I feel like a new man.  I strap a pair of hempen sandals on, and look the part of a island trader.  "How do I look?"  I smile at you, as you are slipping into a semi sheer, flowing gown.  The humidity and temperature are high, and Frederick picked our clothes accordingly.  "I am ready when you are."

[Snapespersephone]

I look down at my self and my dress, "where is the rest of this? it is indecent don't you think?"

[guardtherealm]

"Hmmm, yes a bit.  The clothing shop was quite dark, and you were running around quite excitedly.  You are free to change, I would not want you to be uncomfortable." I smile.  "I quite like it."  I say I forgot something in my bag, and turn to rummage through it while you look at yourself in a mirror and look through the chest of new clothing again.  While you are distracted I drop the ring into my pocket. 

[Snapespersephone]

I pull out a thin covering and turn to you with a smile, "so shall we make our way to the top then?"

[guardtherealm]

"You look wonderful." I take you by the arm and we ascend to the deck.  There seems to be no one around.  I think this may be the moment.  I slide my hand into my pocket and put the ring around my finger to hold it.   

"Ahhh, there they are.  How is the new couple this evening." The captain is on the deck above us and coming down.  I drop the ring, it bounces across the deck.  I go to chase it, and you look to see what I am doing.  Luckily not seeing the diamond flashing across the deck.  The captain comes up to you, and introduces himself. "I am Captain Flynt.  We should have smooth seas ahead of us, and plenty to eat and drink. You can drink can't you.  You look a bit young, and skinny.  I like my women with a little, well a lot more meat on them." He laughs hardily.

"Hello Captain thanks for having us.  I just ummm, dropped a coin and had to chase it halfway around the world."  I look at you.  You give me an odd look. 

"Join me for dinner.   I have a feast and only 7 lonely sailors to eat it." He starts to lead us to the opposite side of the ship, to the sailors and mess quarters.  I stop him, wanting to be alone with you, and not make a scene when we are not very hungry for their food. 

"The misses and I are tired, and I think we will just get a bit of fresh air and then head to our quarters for a while.  I thank you for the hospitality, and I am sure we will have a meal together soon."  The captains understands, and gives me an evil grin and heads down for some food.  Only one man is on deck, and he is across the ship working in the shadows.

"Finally we are alone, I just want to look at the stars for a while.  Would you like to join me on the upper deck over there? Do you need anything dear?  You look slightly confused."

[Snapespersephone]

"why does every man look at me like that James? It is like they want to eat me or something. Do I look edible to you?" I then take your arm to ascend to the upper decks with you watching the sea and enjoying just being next to you.

[guardtherealm]

"It is because men are vile creature when it comes to their desires and you are an image out of every mans dreams. So yes, you look edible in a way.  I feel unworthy of having you by my side these last days.  Sometimes I think I will wake from this, and it will have all been a dream.  I want to ask you something, but hesitate.  I know you have followed me this far, and seem to care for me. But I am still dumbfounded why you seem to be attracted to me.  Before I ask you this question, I want to know if you would have stayed with me if we had not been afflicted?   If maybe we had met under different circumstances."

I walk a few feet away from you and look out onto the ocean.  I giant moon seems to almost touch the water, and stars light the waves breaking against the ship.  A loud noise comes from the other side of the ship as a sailor opens the door, the sounds of heavy drinking bleed out.  He joins his friend on the other deck and we feel alone again.

[Snapespersephone]

"if we had met under diffrent circumstances and I got to know you this well yes i would still agree to marry you. I am not marring you because you created me I am marring you because I want to spend my life with you. Wake up and go to sleep in your arms. lose my maidenhood to you." walks up behind him and wraps her arms around his waist just enjoying the closeness and how nice he smells.

[guardtherealm]

I slip my hand into my pocket, and pull the ring out.  I place my hands on yours and slide the ring onto your finger.  Then just act as if nothing happened.  Waiting for you to react, with a big smile on my face.

[Snapespersephone]

I pulls my hand back and look at the ring you just slide onto it and squeal, "Oh James it is so beautiful. When did you have time to find me a ring without my noticing? Oh you are the best almost husband a girl could ask for." I then throw myself up into you arms and kiss you soundly bringing on some whistles from the men in the sails as I seem to be attacking you face and body with my joy.

[guardtherealm]

"So is that a yes?  I snuck off when you were buying clothes.  The ring has been growing heavier in my pocket ever since."  I rejoice in your embrace, and actually start to shed a few bloody tears.  I never thought I would be happy again, and now I am here with you and things are not looking so dark.  I wipe the bloody tears from my face, not wanting to have the crew find out what we are.  If the crew were to discover our secret, I imagine we would be locked in our quarters and not allowed to leave.

"Once we reach the Isle, we can have a ceremony on the beach if you like.  Or we can just take this ring as a symbol and both agree that it has bonded us together for life. I am fine either way, as long as I get to spend my life with you."  I pull you close and look out at the stars. 

"I love you Liliana, and can not wait to see what life has in store for us next."

[Snapespersephone]

"I want the ceremony Love. it is what every little girl dreams of. we can do it just the two of use and the officiant, and if you like we can have the officiant as our wedding feast." Smiles up at you with love filled eyes.

[guardtherealm]

"I do not think the gods would smile on us if we ate the person who married us." I laugh

"However I am sure we will find a willing candidate to quench our hunger, but  I can imagine at that point, you will be the only person I want to devour." I give you a knowing look and hold you while we watch the sea ahead.  "With this speed, we should reach the Isles quickly.  I took this same trip as a boy, and remember the beaches well.  We should be able to buy ourselves a nice cottage on the beach and live quite the life, and once we are settled and sick of devouring each other we can get ourselves a ship and explore the world together."  I start to daydream, as the door from the crew quarters opens again and the captain comes out have a full on fist fight with one of the crew.  There is blood streaming down the mans face, and we make eye contact, our animal instincts trying to pull us towards them. 

"Now that is interesting, I say we let it play out, I am sure they are just three sheets to this wind, and will not even remember tomorrow.  Too bad we can't eat them though."  We laugh as the two men roll around on the deck like school boys.  "So much for a peaceful evening."

[Snapespersephone]

I smile up at you my eyes shining. "Oh it is to bad all the sweet blood going to waste, but alas from the smell of them it would not be good anyway. Now dearest is there an alternative food source for our wedding feast then? Something just as tasty but not so emotional?"

[guardtherealm]

"Well we can pay someone just a Gandos did with the young girl.  Or we can feed from animals, but they do not give us as much strength as humans.  I wish we had better alternatives as well, it is hard to take lives, but I if we have someone willing to let us feed, then we need not kill them.  Maybe once we have a ship, we can search the world for alternatives or possibly even a cure.  Surely somewhere in the world, there is a sorcerer working on this sort of thing.  Until then, we may need to practice our hunting and stealth skills, we will surely need them from time to time."   I look around the ship, thinking about our future.  It doesn't have to be grim, and with work we will make it easier. 

"This should be a romantic evening for us, but I guess we should be use to not getting what we want by now.  All I desire is to take you to our quarters and get to know you more intimately, but we will wait for our wedding night.  It would be wrong for me to try sooner.  So how about we have a little fun." I point to the crew, who was stopped fighting and is now on the opposite upper deck singing, and largely ignoring us.  "Why don't you use your new skills of speed and quiet to see if you can pluck those keys from the captains side.  We will of course return them soon, but only after I have a look through his quarters of course." 

[Snapespersephone]

I wink at you and then faster then the eye and behind the captain. I give you a quick wave as my hand shoots out and takes the keys hanging my his side with out a sound and then run back to you snuggling back into you in a flash. "here you are love. Shall we look through our esteemed captains things now?"

[guardtherealm]

"Well, that was easier than I imagined.  Yes I think the men will be enjoying themselves for a bit longer now."  I take you by the hand and we head to our quarters, I give the captain a wave and shout as we descend down, and he barely notices.  Once in our room, I pop open the locked hatch that leads to the storage hull under the ship, we drop down and are in the mostly empty area underneath the ship.  On the other side we try the first trap door and it leads into the messhall, the other however opens right into the Captains chambers. I grab you and lift you up through the small hole and follow you behind.  "Look for anything that may help us on our trip, money that he may not notice missing, contacts, weapons, anything." I am feeling excited, and am starting to love our new sneaky, somewhat devious lives.  I kiss you, and start looking around.  With our enhanced senses, we make the best thieves.  We can hear the men still reveling uptop,and are able to distinguish each of them separately, so we know none have left...

[Snapespersephone]

I make a slow turn around the room gathering bits and bobs when I find a chest full of female cloths. "Uh James why would or captain have women's cloths?" I hold up a dress to myself and recognize it. "better question, why does our captain have the cloths I sold? Maybe we should keep a better eye on this man dearest."

[guardtherealm]

I look at you worried.  "Gandos was planning on kidnapping you and selling you, but it seems that maybe the captain had other plans.  My dear, you seem to be quite a wanted woman.  If I was not so mad, I would be flattered that you are with me."  I scan through the captains desk, and make mental notes of his routes.  Nothing out of the ordinary.  Then I see that after he leaves us, before making his way south  to trade, he stops at a small island marked with a green initials.  I.T.C.  I tell myself to ask around about the island once we land. 

I grab a dusty bottle of wine, and see you poking around, enjoying yourself.  "I think we should leave, the men are growing quiet.

[Snapespersephone]

I follow you to the hall but as soon as the door closes behind us the men are going to turn the corner so I jump up on you for a deep soul searing kiss. I put my all into it and get quite a few whistles and grumbles from the assembling men.

[guardtherealm]

The men are drunk and stumbling down the hall.  "Hey did I not see you going to your room over there." He points somewhere across the ship.  "You bring us the lady for payment. The cap said we was to keep her."  Another less drunk man elbows him.  "I mean, he said keep her safe." "Yeah" the others agree. 

I position myself in front of you and work our way through them towards the door to the upper deck.  They make comments, and are too drunk to cause harm to us. "She is not an object to be bought and sold, I shall speak to the captain of this"  We quickly head outside and find the captain snoring heavily in the middle of the ship.  I think about throwing him overboard for a second, but decide against it.  I do help myself to the shining, intricately carved knife on his side. 

Once in our room we look at each other nervously.  "I think we have trouble here."

[Snapespersephone]

"you think? there is a crew of men who think the captain some how owns and is willing to share me. does this mean we can feast after all? Or are you going to pay our good captain a nocturnal visit to scare him straight?" I cling to you shaking in fear of being taken away again, feeling a semibalance of relief and safety next to you.

[guardtherealm]

"I am not sure how to proceed yet, we need the crew to get us to port, but once we see land, we will have trouble.  Luckily we have our little secret on our side.  I have a feeling we will be dining on the crew shortly.  When we do dispatch of them, we will be the owners of a very nice vessel. All we will need to do is dump the crews personal items, and maybe make a few changes to the appearance, and we will be set.  Lets just hope they don't try anything before we are close to land.  The sun should be rising soon, so for now lets just be together."  I lay you down on the bed, and hold you, trying to make you feel safe for once.

[Snapespersephone]

"do you regret taking me and falling for me now? Now that you find the trouble I cause you that is." I snuggle clinging to you like I am afraid to let you go or you will vanish. "Do you wish you have never turned me or turned yourself?"

[guardtherealm]

"you are the best thing to come out of all this.  I have no regrets.   And yes maybe part of me wishes we were not turned,  but if I had to lose you by not being turned,  I would not go back." I hold you and wish that you grow to accept my love.  But I understand I feel the same. 

"Tomorrow night. I saw we dispatch of a crew member.  The less there are at the end the better.  Now hold me and do not let go until nightfall. "

[Snapespersephone]

I wrap my arms around you laying my head on your chest and sigh, "as if I would let you go once i have you in my grasp. silly boy I shall make you trust my love yet. you just wait and see. as for the meal tonight i elect the one who dared to try and touch me. he looked like he desires to be beneath me did he not?"

[guardtherealm]

"I will let you strike the first bite if you wish.  I have yet to figure out how to get him alone, let me know if that sharp mind of yours has any ideas."  I think about each of the crew, only 7 of  them.  We should have no trouble taking this ship. 

"Lets save the captain for last.  Pick the crew off slowly, leave 4 men for the end, and then strike at dinner.  We will have a feast, neither of us will ever forget."

[Snapespersephone]

"well we could always go with my tried and true get grabbed by dinner meathod. It seems to do wonders for me." Smiles at her own joke as they snuggle and plan their mutiny of the ship. "when the ship is ours can we call it the Liliana? I always wanted something named after me."
A knock sound on the door and a shy sailor comes in. "Sorry to bother you miss but this little guy", Holds up Scamp, "was found in the galley eating our bacon."
"oh Scamp you naughty boy come to Mama." at my words the ball of fur jumps from the young man's arms and races to me in our darkened room.
"Oh Miss did you need the windows opened for you?"

[guardtherealm]

"Scamp you little rascal.  He must have snuck out when we caught some fresh air.  Thank you sir.  And yes the lady would love to have the windows opened." I look at you, and wonder if you are thinking the same thing.  This man might suffer a tragic fall out of our window.  I am sure men fall overboard all the time.  He comes in and stands on a stool to unstick the window that has been stuck shuck by years of humid weather.

[Snapespersephone]

"are you crazy it is still daylight out there." I whisper and then seeing your plan in your eyes I smile and glide off the bed. "best close the door so scamp doesn't get away again. silly pup could get hurt on a ship like this." As the door clicks shut I throw the lock and smile. "you are a sweet lad to help me like this. Your mother would be so proud I bet." Then I jump and ponce on his back pinning him to the floor and lean forward to take a bite.
"Wait miss I came to give you a warning please to drink until you have heard me out. I will be you and your man's drink if you wish. I will even help you slaughter the pigs on board, but you need to keep your door locked during the day. The crew and Captain wish this mans death so they can use you and then sell you when we reach shore. we are not heading for the isle as you were promised we are going to a slave island instead."
I look at you for what to do now as I sit on the boy.

[guardtherealm]

"Easy to say with teeth at your throat.  Do the other know of our affliction?"  He shakes his head.  "Is this the Island initialed on the captains books?"  He nods yes. "How do we not know, that you will not run and tell the others if we let you go."  The boy pulls his sleeve up to his shoulder, "Drink from me, not my neck so as to be discreet, but I would not offer this if I was not serious, the captain took me from my home on the very isles you thought you were sailing.  Let me help you, then I will disappear once we reach land. " 
I look to you and see that you trust the boy.  "Alright then, we must start taking this men out slowly.  I want it too look accidental.   First, bring me the man that groped my bride here.  Tell him you had your way with her, and she is ready for another, but to keep his mouth shut.  If I know how that man is, then he will be here  quickly.  Also, wait until the sun sets, so we can actually open this window and dispose of him once we are done." 

"If you betray us, rest assured we will save you for last, after we make you watch the others perish."  The boy gulps audibly, and hold both his arms out.  We smile at him, then greedily take just enough to fill ourselves but not weaken our new ally.  He actually seems to enjoy it, which makes me think this is not his first time.  I poke my finger with the captains knife, and use my blood to heal the boys wounds.  He looks at me amazed.

"Now go child, and send the man in 5 hours."  We laugh as he leaves, feeling elated from his blood, and the prospect of a new ally in clearing the ship.  "Such a nice lad" I say and wipe the blood from around your mouth.

[Snapespersephone]

"yes he was a very nice lad.I just wonder how he could know of our affliction." I grin and wipe a few stray drops of blood off you mouth sucking them off my finger with a grin."now kiss your young bride she is so very lonely and kissable you know."

[guardtherealm]

"I am guessing he has had close contact with our kind before.  The look in his eyes while we were feeding looked like he was remembering something."  I stop talking and kiss you.  Holding myself back is growing harder, but alas I stay true to the promise I made myself.  Only a few more days and we can be husband and wife.  I taste the blood on your lips and shudder.  The boys blood is the sweetest I've had since tasting yours.  then I remember your taste, and wish I could have it again.  But soon I will have something much sweeter, and I lay my head back happy. 

[Snapespersephone]

"shall we rest then until our next meal arrives? OR would you like to kiss your young bride?"