Equinox of blood (Staine x Siren)

[Staine]

Power. Speed. Bodies at their physical peak even beyond that of other vampires, movements faster than the eyes could see, feats of strength that made those of lesser blood pale in comparison and a haughty pride that went along with it. Blessed by the sun. Prideful, glorious, a bloodline gifted with grace and strength. Through them flowed raw power, physical perfection given the form of walking Gods. The kingdom of Arunika was their home, a land of rolling hills and ancient castles where mighty armies trained to protect the royal family of De La Cade. Those of the Solnesvet bloodline were said to be fearless, charismatic leaders loved for their commanding presence, admired for the bold example they set as they led from the front. Deviousness was abhorrent, subterfuge a concept with no word in their language and to take a single step backwards in battle was far worse than any defeat in the emerald green eyes of their people, eyes that shone with the soft glow of the early morning glade as met by the sun.

Beauty. Charm. Cunning. Minds that could twist and turn in so many ways that other vampires couldn't match their guile in a thousand human lifetimes, silver tongued and seductive beyond compare, scholars, artists and diplomats that could turn any to their cause with a soft touch, a gentle sigh and a whispered word. Blessed by the moon. Mischievous, deceptive, a bloodline gifted with elegance and perception. Through them flowed gifts other bloodlines had long since lost, captivating gazes that could transfix even the strongest of wills, beguiling words and delicate manipulation of desires given the form of beautiful sirens. The kingdom of Jacira was their home, a land of moonlit garden, enchanted forests and crystalline lakes where creatures not human or vampire span their webs of fey pleasures under the watchful eye of the royal family of De Moion. Those of the Lunnesvet bloodline were said to be cunning yet compassionate leaders loved for their peaceful approach and patronage of the arts among their people, admired for the diplomatic way they encouraged the growth of their bloodline. Brutality was abhorrent, savagery a concept with no word in their language and to solve a problem with force that could be solved with diplomacy was far worse than to succumb to it in the pale amber eyes of their people, eyes that glowed with the soft light of the full moon as it crested a clear night sky.

Years of war and mistrust. The Solnesvet guarded their borders with might, only their pride and honour stopping them from seeking the right of conquest and marching into the lands of Jacira to take it for their own. Those few that did venture in, adventurers, bandits and explorers all found that while the Lunnesvet were not a warlike people their lands defended themselves. Trees would pull down invaders with their roots, thick mists would descend on the forests which themselves seemed to change and move around, landmarks disappearing and rearranging themselves so that any attempt to chart a course through the hostile lands was futile and the Lunnesvet themselves fought with trickery and cunning that matched the ferocity of the Solnesvet at every turn. The Lunnesvet in return sent spies into the kingdom of Arunika but how could one match the physical feats of the Solnesvet closely enough to live among them? Given away by their very deceptive nature most were never heard from again and those that returned had little to tell, the Solnesvet had nothing to hide, no secrets to steal, pride kept their hearts on their sleeves. Centuries would pass before diplomacy ever took hold, the winter solstice the only time the two bloodlines would meet each year in neutral ground, aristocrats of both kingdoms coming together under a banner of peace to celebrate the race as a whole from before the blood was diluted. Over time, talks turned to the others. Humans. Every growing, quickly multiplying, sweeping across the world with superior technology and numbers, covetous and warlike by nature they posed a threat to every race not their own and were soon poking at the borders of both kingdoms. Talks began, meetings between the royal families and a truce, a pact signed in marriage was made. The eldest prince and princess of both kingdoms, Lucian of Arunika and Alexandria of Jacira would marry and be crowned. New rulers, united to fight a common enemy and bring the two bloodlines together again.

Slowly, they fell in love. They had a daughter together, they were happy, there was hope.

Abruptly their lives were ended. Slain in their chambers in the kingdom of Arunika in the middle of the day.


Mikkel looked down at his pocket watch, a gold piece gifted to him from King Lucian sixteen years ago. It had taken a long time to warm to the man, Mikkel had ever been loyal to Alexandria and her family, distrustful of the Solnesvet but the king had been nothing if not an honest man, even jovial at times. He had treated him with respect too...Mikkel had clearly been important to his bride and had been treated as such, not as an outsider or a lesser being like one might think they would but as a part of the family. It had been difficult to hate Lucian when the man had tried so hard to win his trust and as Alexandria had fallen for him, Mikkel had come to respect and like him in kind. When their daughter had been born, both the king and queen had decided that Mikkel would be her godfather and he had been given this watch as a token of his station. From then Mikkel had watched over the girl as she had grown up, cared for her when her parents were ruling their kingdom. It had been the happiest time his life. He wasn't a vampire, Mikkel would eventually die but he was long lived, just over 70 years old though he looked barely older than 30 when his ageing had slowed dramatically. He smiled sadly as he closed the watch. All that was over now, it had been only 3 nights since they had been assassinated and they had moved quickly. All those he trusted were aboard the Datura now, the greatest airship of both, maybe any kingdom, powered by arcane magic and strange engineering feats far beyond his understanding it was larger than his home village of Edurne was by far and no doubt would be a shock to them when it hovered overhead in a few more days. Mikkel travelled back home once every few years on his own private pilgrimage, to receive his blessings, to consult with the witch who had recognised what he was at birth and had raised him those first few years. He was always welcome, greeted with smiles and nods and hope, everybody in the village knew who he was, the wolf, the first in generations. He had been sent to Jacira to meet the royal family when he was no more than 12, already trained to fight in the savage ways of his people and to use his gifts, immature as they were at the time, to serve and to learn as others chosen as he was had done in the past. He could think of no safer place to take his princess, to figure out what they must do next. Patience, even if he had wanted to tear the kingdom apart in search of the murderer he at least had learned that from the late queen. Keep Emmeline safe above all else, even vengeance. He was all she had left now.

He tucked the pocket watch away and pulled on his pristine white gloves, catching a glance of himself in the mirror. While guiding the princess he had also served as the head butler for the family. He chuckled to himself, a butler, a bodyguard, a godparent, a teacher. What he was didn't seem so important so long as he was there for them, there for her, and she needed him now more than ever. He walked through the spacious corridors of the airship, passing by trusted soldiers from both kingdoms, workers that would keep them in the air and guide them to Edurne, offering them sad smiles and polite nods until he came to the princess' room. He didn't knock...the guards didn't blink an eye as he opened the door and stepped inside, most nights he spent in the room recently anyway, watching over her, he had only been gone an hour to bathe and the two most trusted had been assigned to watch the room. Sure. Mikkel trusted everybody on the ship, to an extent, but he wouldn't lose her. He wouldn't be able to face her parents in the afterlife if he did. He laid down the silver platter beside her bed, picking up the teapot and one of the cups as he began to pour, his voice deep but soft as he spoke. "Time to wake up princess, the sun is down already. I would let you sleep until we arrive if I could, but in these times more than ever your people will need to see you, you'll have to be strong. They need to know that hope still lives." He tried to keep the smile in his tone, but he was still so very raw, he was still trying to process what had happened himself while remaining as stoic as he could for Emmeline, to try and be a safe haven for her. He placed down the steaming cup of tea next to the toast, the assortment of butter and jam on the platter beside it, careful not to touch the silver itself with any exposed flesh, thankful for the gloves. Chuckling as she stirred, his next words were just a little louder. "Come on, up with you. I even made your favourite tea, don't let it go cold now."

 

[Bunny]

It had been two nights since her parents deaths and to Emmeline it still felt like a nightmare she still might wake from. That as the moon rose behind charcoal clouds she'd wake not upon the Datura but within the pristine white walls of her father's castle, upon her plush bed surrounded by familiar trappings of her childhood. It's creamy white and gold walls, the large four poster bed that even as she had grown had dwarfed her small frame.. Wake to the same heady scent of jasmine that climbed along the trellis near her bedroom. The sunrise before as Mikkel had wished her sweet dreams she had begged any God who could hear her to let this just be a dream.. When she woke she'd hear her mother's laughter ring through the hallways, the gruff sound of her father's voice...

Emmeline's pale lashes flickered against her even paler cheeks and her heart sank. The soft hum or engines and the warm smell of wood and bodies filled her nose as she inhaled, as well as the grassy sweet scent of green tea. Her desperate prayers had not been answered. Slowly her eyes opened and one golden, one emerald green eye met Mikkel's amber gaze before sliding away. Curling away from him, Emme's already small form curled into a tight ball at his words. She didn't want to face her people now or ever. She wanted to fade away into nothingness and join her parents in eternal slumber. There, her heart wouldn't ache so fiercely and her next breath wouldn't hitch with sobs that she had was unable to control. The oddest things brought he fresh pain roaring back and it felt like she was being crushed under it's weight.

"Go away Mikkel" Her normally lilting voice flat and raw from hours of sobbing. It was the same thing she had said the night before when he had woken her. She felt the bed beneath her sway slightly. The suspended bed was not the most practical on a ship, even one that flew through air rather than glided along water, but she had been adamant when her parents had allowed he to redesign her room upon the behemoth of a ship. It swayed again and the gentle rocking was soothing.. It was what had finally lulled her to sleep the sunrise before, the gentle sway of the bed. Like being rocked when she had been a small child. She should have been past such things at the mature age of sixteen.. she had thought she was. But last night it had been the sway and the exhaustion of tears spent that had sucked her into the blackness of sleep.

Behind her she could feel and hear Mikkel as he poured her tea, set down the fine bone china on the silver tray. She could feel the heavy weight of his eyes on her. Growling softly the sound feral she ignored the hungry pang in her stomach as the sticky sweet scent of strawberry jam reached her and the toasted scent of warm brown bread. The tea, the bread and jam.. all simple pleasure of the young woman. "I am not hungry.." Her stomach gave a low growl, immediately proving her a liar. Still the calm steady presence of her godfather, butler, guard lingered at her back like an infuriating shadow. In that moment she hated him. Hated him for forcing her to continue as if nothing had changed when her whole world had come crashing down.

Emmeline wanted nothing more than to throw the tea cup against the wooden paneled walls.. Hear the delicate black and gold tea cup shatter sharply against them, tea and shards of porcelain spreading along the the floors, perhaps soaking into the fine rug that covered most of her chamber. The destructive thoughts were halted as the shades whirled upwards slowly and peaceful moonlight streamed into the room brightly, illuminating her face and tiny body. "They are dead... And they are never coming back." The words were whispered, thick and laden with tears that slowly leaked down along her nose plopping onto the soft sheets beneath her, staining the the sea green sheets an inky green-black, if only for a while. "Please leave.."

Tears never seemed to stop and she was tired of him watching her cry, pity and pain on his face.. Tired. She was so tired and it had only been two nights. Emmeline could feel it in her bones and it was hard to believe that at sixteen she could feel ancient. Shivering Emme opened her eyes, staring out at the night sky that welcomed her. Stars glinted in the inky blackness like diamonds, sparkling through the haze of misty clouds. Though the night was gorgeous she had trouble letting it's beauty sink into her. She felt nothing but heartache and woe. Deep, deep woe. Silent sobs shook her form, fat little beads dropping onto her sheets without a sound, the dark stain growing larger with each salty drop. "Why couldn't they have taken me too Mikkel?" Emmeline sobbed, her voice breaking.

 

[Staine]

"Go away Mikkel." It was shocking how so few words could hurt so much, how the pangs could hit him even after all his years. To hear them from his charge, even knowing she didn't really mean it, even knowing that now more than ever she needed him to be resolute, a rock, a safe place for her to be when everything else around her was bleak, it wounded him. His face didn't show it, practice at hiding his emotions coming to the fore but his eyes couldn't hide a small flicker of sadness. He didn't do as she asked, he didn't go away or move much at all, he simply stood there and waited, watched as the emotions tore through her like he had the night before. It would be a long time before this wasn't a thing, he knew that, time was meant to heal all wounds but by it's very nature it did it slowly, and Emmeline was young, too young for tragedy like this. In a heartbeat Mikkel would take the place of her parents if it could bring them back to her, he would have done it for just one of them but it hadn't been him the assassin had come for, it hadn't been him they had wanted nor Emmeline herself but the rulers of the vampire kingdoms. With his sorrow came anger, buried deep inside. Mikkel looked to be just a butler, few knew of his actual origins, Emmeline didn't know much of it at all besides tales he had told her of his village when he had been watching over her when she was younger, they didn't know not just who he was, but what he was besides a vassal of queen Alexandria. That he was born with certain gifts, rare gifts that one in generations might have, that he had been tested and marked in his village. A rarity, he was destined to serve the Lunnesvet like others before him had and deep down, he was a warrior. His blood boiled, he wanted to rend and tear at those that had taken from him some of the most important people in his life, hurt those that had hurt his dear princess, but that wasn't what either of them truly needed right now.

"I'm not going anywhere, princess, no matter how many times you ask me to." His tone was soft, but firm. "I know you don't want to, but you should eat. I can't promise it will make you feel better, but you need to do it anyway. You are..." He struggled to find the words as he looked down at her, his face betraying none of the emotion that was flowing through him. "You're all that's left of them now." Her words hit him hard, and he faltered for a moment. To see her cry was the most sorrowful thing he had ever witnessed, and it happened so often now that it broke his heart. He sat on the edge of the bed, reaching over and placing a hand on her shoulder. "Please don't say that, I'm begging you...don't even think it." His own voice trembled ever so slightly as he spoke even as he tried to stay strong for her. "That you're still alive gives me hope, hope for the kingdom, hope for a better world. I know you miss them, I miss them too and I can only imagine how much you're hurting but they would want you to live on." Down on the ground, Mikkel had no idea what was happening to the kingdom itself, Arunika had to be in turmoil but King Lucian had brothers and cousins that could rule in his stead. Mikkel trusted none of them...for all he knew it was one of them that had been the assassin, being raised in the Jacira he was well aware of what one would and could do for power and assassination wasn't so far-fetched, but he didn't want to tell her his suspicions right now, not when he had nothing to point to them being true. It could have easily been a human plot, or somebody from Jacira, maybe one of those that had spoken out against the marriage all those years ago, not wanting the two bloodlines to join. That's why he had stolen Emmeline away along with all those he felt he could trust. They needed guidance, they needed to find some stability and a little time to grieve before they did what Mikkel knew they must...before they gathered allies and took back the kingdoms.

That had to be the goal. To find the murderer or murderers, to take back her parent's kingdom and keep the bloodlines from tearing at each other, he could already see it happening. Arunika would be looking for somebody to blame just as Jacira would, and both would look to each other. Emmeline was a child of both kingdoms, both bloodlines, the only thing that could hold them together and the assassin would regret leaving her alive, they would get no other chance to take her from this world if he could help it. That could wait though, right now he needed to be there for his goddaughter. He edged closer onto the bed, closer to her curled up form and cuddled in behind her, something he hadn't done in years, not since the last time she had been stricken with grief over the loss of a pet. One hand came up to find her hair while the other around her waist, pulling her tight against him while his chin rested just above her head. For the rest of the kingdom she had to appear strong, he knew that, she knew that, but here in the privacy of her chambers he could comfort her, hold her. "Please, princess, I know it's hard but if you eat something, and drink something, then the rest will follow and there is no rush to show your face outside here, not yet, I'm sure your people know you're grieving." His voice was barely above a whisper. As she sobbed, he held her tightly and wouldn't let go unless she made him.

 

[Bunny]

Mikkel leaving her had never been an option and no matter how often in the past few days she had demanded it of him, he hadn't. A safe port in any storm be it small or raging, Mikkel was always there for her. His words were heard and not in the same breath. They were meant to comfort, and they did to a point. It was hard to heal this kind of hurt however with words alone. Time would truly be the healing salve she needed. However time crawled for Emmeline. Gone were the nights that speed past, each one crawling by at a glacial pace, the path it left behind jagged and rough. His charge didn't respond, it wasn't until she felt her bed sift with his weight that she reacted to him, his words..

Turning from the brightness of the window she curled into him, her head tucked beneath his chin. A slender arm slipped around his waist and the other curled in the pristine cloth of his suit. The familiar warmth of his form eating into her coldness, slowly warming her skin. She could hear the steady beat of his heart, the rhythm soothing. It had been years since she had laid in his arms, in fact she had been a small child the last time he had held her like this. Slowly, her trembling subsided and she took a shaking breath in. They lay like that for some time before she stirred once more, her words whispered "How long?" She didn't clarify what she meant, Emme knew Mikkel would know what she meant. How long until it stopped hurting? Until the pain faded away.. Slowly she pulled away and wiped at her tear stained face as he rose from the bed. He was right, of course.. She could take this in small steps, but each small step would propel her closer to the day it no longer hurt.

Shifting she reached for the delicate cup, thoughts of smashing it slipping away as she inhaled the sweet scent. It had cooled as she had cried and he had held her, but steam curled along the top like a fading mist. Sipping it, she felt the warmth of the liquid in her mouth. Pausing she frowned some into the cup. It didn't taste right.. Another small sip and she set it down. Reaching for the toast, she scrapped the creamy yellow butter across it's rough surface before slathering it with strawberry jam in a thick layer. It was a small thing, but it never had failed to lift her spirits. Lifting the jam laden bread to her mouth, Emme took a bite and looked immediately ill. What should have been a rush of fruity sweetness tasted off, like the fruit had spoiled. Saccharine to the point it was boozy, the flavor coating her mouth. Coughing she put the bread down and frowned at him in puzzlement. There was a debate if drinking more of the spoiled tea would be worthwhile to chase away the flavor of the jam. "Mikkel.. didn't you check the food stores before we left?" Her words held the same puzzlement as she pushed the trey of tea and toast away from her further, now just the scent of it turning her stomach.

Rising to her feet, the bed swayed behind her gently. Emmeline was such a small girl. Barely reaching four ten, Emme was several inches short of reaching even his shoulders. "I'm.. going to shower" It was one more thing she could control. A simple step that helped her move forward. Leaving Mikkel, Emme vanished into her bath. Nearly an hour would pass before the young woman would appear again. Clothed in white, black and gold. Along her slender arms was black velvet cloth, fine gold detailing swirling along her arms in intricate designs. Clapsed at the slender column of her throat with a golden broach, a large ruby inset within it's filigree. Her bodice which rested underneath the shrug of fabric put her assets on the best display possible, her perky breasts pushed together, the creamy swells inviting.. Her skin just a touch pinker than the white of the heart-shaped bodice. The fabric cling to her breasts, slender torso before flaring out at her hips. Delicate details adored the bodice, from the golden clasp just beneath her breasts to the golden buttons and stitching. A pair of short black shorts hugged along her thighs and several inches of pale skin showed between them and a pair of thigh high black boots.

A golden crown studded with diamonds and rubies rested on her her strawberry blonde locks, which tumbled down her back in soft weaves to her rear. It was clear she was unused to the crown, her movements unnaturally stiff. Her mother's crown was heavier than the normal tiaras Emmeline normally wore of wrought gold and silver. She tried for a smile, dainty fangs flashing at Mikkel, though the some had trouble reaching her eyes. Emmeline was trying. For him... Her people.. Her parents.. Though if she was honest, this effort was for her godfather and her godfather alone.

 

[Staine]

Just holding Emmeline like that brought back memories, memories of better times even if they hadn't felt like it at the time. Holding her when she had been sad about such minor things that didn't really matter anymore, or even just holding her in general as she slept. Even in 70 years, a lot of these times had been the highlight of his life, he found a strange serenity in caring for his young charge. When her mother had decided to make him her Godfather he hadn't argued but he had felt...it wasn't meant for him. Wasn't his purpose. From birth until his 25th nameday when Alexandria had come to the village to collect him he had been trained in many things but mostly battle and known his destiny, to be bonded to the vampire who ruled in Jacira. He had trained not just in the use of his body to hunt and kill, but with weapons and armour, taught how to protect while still fighting, taught rituals to control the beast that dwelled just beneath the surface so that when the time came to unleash it he wasn't going to go out of control. After that he had not been bonded to Alexandria, instead due to his long life and her much, much longer one he had been there to follow and observe, to learn other things. He had been her shadow, following her around her court, learning the names of all the others who would perhaps one day seek to claim her throne. Learning who her allies and enemies might be, as well as continuing to hone his skills. 25 more years had passed and talk of the union had been underway and before he knew it, Alexandria was married, King and Queen ruling together over two kingdoms instead of one. Mikkel had thought at that time that the bonding would take place soon, but it hadn't, Alexandria had wanted to hold off and he hadn't known why.

Then Emmeline had been born.

Mikkel remembered the day Alexandria had taken him aside, the sages had all performed their magic, she knew she was going to have a daughter born of both bloodlines, the strengths of both flowing through her. Pureborn and powerful, a symbol to unite the kingdoms together but she was more than that, she was her daughter, Alexandria wanted the best for her. Wanted her to grow up and take the place of both her and her father, to rule when the time was right. Mikkel had been told he would be her Godfather, and in time that the bonding wouldn't be to Alexandria but to her daughter. It would be her he served, her he lived for and empowered. He had balked...he wasn't proud of it but to him his entire life had been leading up to the one thing, he had never questioned her before that, simply done his duty and followed her but in that he had been hesitant. It hadn't lasted...assigned as her caretaker, her watchdog, her butler and to watch over Emmeline always he had come to love the girl. When her first pet had died he had held her like this, when she had felt she disappointed her father, when she had been yelled at or chastised, Mikkel had been there, just as he was now. "I don't know, princess, I don't know how long, but I will be here the whole time. They say it will get easier even as it hurts so much right now, just take it one night at a time." His words were soft as she trembled in his arms, as he soothed her by running his hand up and down her back, nuzzling into her. She was a little colder than humans would be, his own blood ran a little hotter and he hoped the warmth would help soothe her too. Eventually, she pulled away from him to try and eat and he watched her with a smile which straightened out as she appeared to have great distaste for the food he knew she liked. "I did, the food is all fresh, I promise you. Maybe you aren't feeling so well?" He knew some sicknesses could affect taste, he didn't know many which could affect a vampire but she was young enough that her vampiric traits hadn't really started to develop yet, those usually started in what a human would consider young adulthood, around 20 or so. She was years too soon, so maybe sickness could still take hold. He looked at her with concern. "Yes, go take your shower, I'll see to the food. I'm sure I made a mistake somewhere."

As she left he lifted the teacup to his lips and took a sip of her favourite green tea, his brow furrowing. It wasn't what he would usually drink but he had done so many times in the past especially when she was younger for her 'tea parties' and he knew this was exactly how she liked it, he could taste the grassy tones and the sweetness of the sugar. Strange. Placing it down, he took a bite of the toast, the fruity flavour exploding on his tongue, the jam was fresh and delicious, nothing that would make her pull such a face. Realisation took a few moments to dawn on him, how once their powers started to take hold and ageing slowed their cravings would first begin. He had been made to study on vampires and how they grew, how they would begin to need blood to survive, how other food would taste bland and sometimes spoiled without it and while they could eat it, it wouldn't be the same. Could that really happen to her at such an age? It didn't seem likely but at the same time, he knew the food was good and he had read somewhere in one of the many books he had been required to study that sometimes trauma could trigger their development early, there had certainly been precedent for it before. While she showered he cleared away the food, leaving her chambers briefly to take it out and dispose of it and brew a fresh pot, this time using coffee to hide the colour. Taking a kitchen knife he used the very tip to prick his finger, just a few droplets of his own blood falling into the pot of coffee and into the very same jam he had already presented her with, mixing it up before taking it back with fresh toast and butter. Laying it down beside her table he waited till she returned, smiling to see her looking as flawless as ever.

"You look very regal, princess, as always. Should you decide that tonight is the night to walk onto the decks I have no doubt that everybody that sees you will know that the bloodline is still strong, that hope is still among us for peace." On the Datura, there were vampires of both bloodlines working hard and he knew that while right now things were stable, it wouldn't last. They would fight among themselves without a leader, and as young as she was it had to be her. "I took the liberty of remaking your food, I'm sorry but I didn't have time to fetch more green tea so I thought coffee would do for now. Would you like to try it and see if it's more to your liking?"

 

[Bunny]

A shy smile pulled at her lips, Mikkel was always sweet to her. While not her father, Mikkel had always been like a second one to her. She closed her eyes and nodded slowly as his words settled between them. Emmeline knew she should leave her rooms, let her people see that she was alive.. well. For much like Mikkel, she knew that while now they all played nice, it wouldn't take much to sow unease betwixt the two bloodlines. Her full lips had pulled at the edges in thought. She wanted time to grieve, process what would be required of her.. But her people needed to see her as badly as she needed that solitude. "Heavy is the head that wears the crown" Her voice was soft, mummered. It was something her father had said to her on many occasions. Often surrounding her wanting him to do something with her, but he couldn't. Her father had always made it up to her though. A smile now tugged at her mouth as she recalled her father, so full of life.

Emmeline's face cleared of thoughts as she looked up at him. Mikkel... Her strong Godfather, Butler.. caretaker. Her mother had once told her that he would be more than that in time, but had never elaborated. She couldn't help but wonder as she stared into the strong lines of his face, holding his golden eyes in hers, what her mother had meant. She had heard rumors that he was a shifter and that was what made him special.. but Emme had never seen him shift, or anyone ever speak of it. Perhaps he was? That would explain the fact he had barely aged in the sixteen years she'd known him. He wasn't a vampire and clearly he wasn't quite human. Another soft rumble emanated from her stomach and she nodded moving to the small table which he'd laid the new food upon. Carefully she added milk to her coffee till it was caramel in color and sugar to taste, preferring it less sweet than her tea. Lifting the cup to her lips she took a slow sip and sighed contently. It didn't hold any taste of being off. With that, the small female turned her attention to her toast, carefully making a slice.. Thick bread buttered and then slathered with jam was lifted to her lips. Taking a big bite, Emme munched on it slowly.. Savoring the flavors. "Much better, thank you Kel" The nickname offered with the sweetest of smiles.

She took her time with breakfast, working up her nerve to see someone beyond Mikkel. It was embarrassing enough that guards posted out side her suite had heard her tears... But facing her people? The looks of sympathy, pity? There were bound to be those looks. She knew that no harm would be meant... Her people had always been loving and kind to her. She honestly felt they adored her. Though, that faith had been shaken some in the past few nights, since the deaths of her beloved parents. Pushing the plate of toast, three slices devoured by the petite girl, away from herself, Emme sighed and lifted her coffee to her lips finishing the cup. "I don't.. Have to talk to them yet? Just seeing me will be enough?" Honestly, if talking to them, hearing their condolences was required... She wasn't sure she was ready.

That and.. Emmeline hadn't told him, thought not much escaped him, she was now scared of her own people. Someone, had killed her parents. Someone who had looked like them, was one of them. Even if it hadn't been either bloodline, even if it had been humans or pink and purple polka dotted aliens... they had walked and talked like one of their own and murdered her parents as they slept, while the sun was it's highest. Trembling her eyes met his, fear leaking into those beautiful mismatched eyes.

 

[Staine]

Mikkel had nodded, he had heard Lucian say that many times himself and understood exactly what she meant. She was just a girl of 18 years really, her parents had been murdered just days before. Nobody else would be expected to show themselves, they would have time to grieve and time to cry, do whatever it was they needed in order to move on but not her. Emmeline had responsibility, even before this she wasn't allowed to always just be a teenager and now she had the weight of the world on her shoulders. He would do all he could to help take that from her, but he knew it wasn't enough, it would still fall to her. Either she would reunite the bloodlines and take control or this would go down as the turning point. If they split, the humans would have a much easier time taking their land from them, the greedy, warlike race likely to swarm across the land like locusts. Separately, they couldn't possibly be held back, not by a shattered kingdom. That led him to believe that it was humans that had done this, but what if it wasn't? He didn't know who they could trust any better than she did.

A small smile appeared on his lips as she sipped the coffee without balking, and when she ate the toast it lingered. It wasn't a happy one, while it appeared so he was inwardly trying to figure out how to understand this now. She wasn't meant to be feeding on blood yet, her body wasn't meant to be craving it but the simple fact that the food wasn't right without it worried him, what else was happening? Why now? Was it the trauma of the assassination, like he had expected? He would need to talk about it later but right now she seemed to be at least considering leaving the room. "Of course not, princess, no need to talk to anybody and I will be with you every step of the way, I promise." He smiled genuinely this time as he stepped closer to her. Already he saw something, fear or worry in her eyes and he just wanted to comfort her. "You're safe here, you know that right?" His voice had lowered, even the vampires guarding the room would find it hard to hear him as he let his arms fall around her, pulling her into a gentle hug. "I trust everybody on the ship but I still will not let you out of my sight, I'll keep you safe, princess. Soon we will be at Edurne and you can see where I grew up, go for a peaceful walk with me and meet the elder witch." He stroked his hand down through her hair, letting it slide through his fingers.

"Tonight, just a stroll on the deck. I don't think you've been through the gardens yet, have you? It's a clear night, they are private enough that we won't be disturbed and have so many beautiful flowers. Your mother always loved it there, she tended them well." He had let her go while he moved towards her dresser, grabbing her hairbrush. Her hair was still wet from her bath and he remembered when she was younger he used to brush it for her, it had been a couple of years since he had but right now it felt...right. "Come here, let's take care of your hair before we go, yes?" He sat down on the edge of the bed, leaving room between his legs for her to sit. "One night at a time, that's how we will take this, so don't worry about anything else right now, Emme."

 

[Bunny]

Mikkel, as she suspected missed nothing. He knew what troubled his ward without even a moment of doubt to the cause of her fear. Rising she was pulled into a hug, his strong arms around her. Safe withing the circle of Mikkel she let out a small breath she'd been holding. His words, the feel of his fingers in her hair, soothing her further. She was looking forward to seeing where he'd grown up, for the peace of the walk he promised and to meet someone who knew him when he was young. The tension slowly slipped from her limbs and Emme curled into him, leaning against his chest. Taking a slow deep breath, she inhaled the scent of him. The first scent she picked up was sweet, citrusy like orange.. or grapefruit the scent tangier. The bright scent followed by something that reminded her of grass in the summer night air, clean and sweet, before lastly the warm scent of spice and pine. It was purely Mikkel and to Emmeline, it was safety and told her she was home.

Released his warmth slowly left her and she nodded slowly, the seclusion of the garden would be relaxing and she'd see her people to and from it. It would also keep most of them away from her, which helped relax her further as she followed him towards her bed. A smile on her lips whens he saw the brush. Sitting herself between his thighs, she squirmed back into him along the bed, her feet leaving the ground. Eyes closing as the touch of the brush against her scalp started. A sweet little purr leaving her lips as he began to brush her silky blonde locks. Her chin dipped towards her chest as she relaxed with the sweet, gentle pampering.

One night a time. She could probably do one night at a time. Biting her lower lip she let the soothing lull of the brush chase any lingering resistance from her body. One night at a time, and he'd be with her every step of the way. Sighing gently one of her hands rested on his thigh, tracing abstract patterns along the soft linen of his pants. She let herself go, if just for a moment, pretending the weight of her crown, the loss of her parents were not trying to crush her beneath them, her legs kicking in a childish like manner, the bed swaying with the motion. The song her mother had sung to her as a small child coming to mind. Slowly she began to sing, her voice thick with emotion.

"Call up your men, dilly, dilly
Set them to work
Some to the plough, dilly, dilly
Some to the fork"

Her song ending after the verse, and her eyes slowly opening. Her mother had been beautiful, graceful and strong.. Her father confident, quick to smile and kind.. She would be like them both. Strive to be the perfect mix of her parents.. To rule her people. The saying 'Fake it till you make it' coming to mind. She could act like everything was okay, until it was... She'd make them proud. Make Mikkel proud.. Make her people proud.

 

[Staine]

Mikkel felt much more at peace as he held her, it wasn't just for her after all, her presence comforted him. It was all he had left, ever since he had left his village his life had been devoted to first her mother and now her, he had his own small pleasures he partook in but the majority of it had been spent on them. To think he would never speak with Alexandria again, never be her shadow. The times he had spent drinking with Lucian as they had bonded, even sparred with each other, the vampire king had been fascinated with the way Mikkel had fought. Obviously outmatched by the vampire he had still given it his all, even unleashed himself once after much requesting, in private after swearing the king to secrecy. It had shown how much he had trusted him, showing one of the rival bloodline exactly what he was and what he could do, and it had been a much more even fight that had ensued. He smiled remembering the surprise on Lucian's face and the laughter of Alexandria as she watched them together while nursing young Emmeline.

As Emme sat between his legs and wriggled back into him he smiled down at her, taking her hair in one hand and brushing it with the other while she leaned back into him. She may be all he had left now, but as far as he was concerned it was more than enough to live for, to fight for. The young vampire princess had been the center of his world for years now anyway, and Mikkel was nothing if not devoted. As she sang, he carefully brushed her hair, he could feel her hand on his thigh, hear the sigh of contentment and his chest swelled with pride that he could at least put her at ease a little in these dark times. When she had finished singing, he leaned down and kissed the top of her head, his lips lightly pressing to the flawless, almost golden blonde of her hair, the purest form of the colour he had ever seen and a clear mark of her father. The rest of her features leaned towards that of her mother, but the hair was the same colour as his, blessed by the sun. "That's my good little princess, I know it's hard but you make me proud, Emmeline. Come now, while we have the strength we can go for just a little stroll through the gardens, yes?" He was sliding his fingers through her hair, watching the curls bounce as he released it, taking solace in the simple, affectionate task before he started to lift her back to her feet. All too soon, the time to just let her be had passed and he knew he needed to push her onwards.

He took her hand and guided her towards the door, squeezing it firmly, his thumb rubbing the back of her hand. Opening the door he was met with the two guards that were always stationed outside at night, in the daytime they would be replaced by two of the trusted fey they had brought with them, working in shifts to ensure nobody but he entered her chambers. "We are going for a walk to the gardens, if one of you would like to accompany us, please stay a distance behind." He made eye contact with Sylvane, the guard on the left who nodded briefly. "Yes Sir, I'll come with. Garlas could use a break this time I'm sure." The other vampire looked almost offended, though he didn't argue, instead leaning back against the wall beside the door, his green eyes marking him as one of the Solnesvet, contrasting Sylvane's amber gaze. Mikkel had decided he wanted one of each on the door, so as not to favour one bloodline over the other. "Hah, as if I could sleep anyway, nay, I'll stay at attention, don't want anybody sneaking in while you're gone, right princess Emmeline?" Mikkel offered him a smile, admiring the determination. "Thank you, I'll see to it that refreshments are brought up to you, and that you are both relieved for tomorrow night. I know you want to protect the princess but there are others I trust too." Nodding again to Sylvane, he guided Emmeline through the corridors until they came to the back deck, opening up into the clear night sky as a cold breeze hit them, the air fresh and crisp, so much mroe breathable than the airship could ever be. The gardens could be seen in the distance, the large, decorative hedges standing tall as he led her towards them.

 

[Bunny]

The moment of peace, snuggled into his chest while he tended to sweet task of brushing her hair was over far too quickly. It meant the next task, the one she was dreading, was upon her. Taking a slow deep breath as he set her on her feet, she looked up at him as his hand found hers. Her slender digits linked with his own, feeling suddenly small. She could do this. Letting Mikkel lead her from the room, she looked to Sylvane and Garlas, with a shy smile. The interaction was sweet, and she had known these men most of her life. While she felt embarrassed they, like Ditramon and Hyacint had heard her tears, she knew they cared for her. When her name was spoken by Garlas she smiled at him, a shadow of her normal smile, but it was clear she was trying. Leaning up, one hand still tethered to Mikkel she pressed a soft kiss to his cheek "Thank you Garlas", head turning towards Sylvane. Sticking her tongue out playfully at him "Nyhh!".. Her actions mimicked the normally care free attitude that had clung to just days before.. Her free hand slid into Sylvane's for a moment, squeezing his hand before looking to Mikkel, ready to continue.

The playful interaction done she was lead through the doors into the cool night air. Taking in a deep breath, Emmeline closed her eyes and lingered under the moons glow. Slowly she opened her eyes and began to walk in the directions of the gardens. The gardens would be safer and more painful at the same time. They had been her mother's baby. Filled with night blooming flowers, including the airship's name sake, Datura. Most of the flowers that greeted her were pale as the moonlight that streamed from the heavens above. But, Emme knew within the maze of deep green, there were hidden nooks of chocolate daises and within the center of the ship a pound that's surface would be covered in brilliant pink lily blossoms as they rested on it's surface. Gravel crunched under her boots and she paused at the start of the maze, her hand tightening on his.

Heart racing she closed her eyes and bit her lower lip. Settling the panic that started to build she stepped into the sweet smelling opening. Fragrant blossoms filled the air as she took slow, measured steps. Each step took her further into the night blooming world and soon she saw other little treasures. Statues of lovers in embrace, a doe and one of birds in flight. Taking an intentionally meandering route, she weaved between the hedges.. As she walked she gathered rain lilies, the small closed petal blossoms being slowly fashioned into a crown. While they walked and she gathered the blooms she didn't speak, it wasn't until they reached the center and she sat herself down upon a dark stone bench that she spoke. "How are my people?" She wasn't ready for this, she knew that much... But what choice did she have?

Looking at the crow of flowers in her lap Emme began to tuck in spare blossoms, filling the crown out. "How many are with us on the Datura?" Her crown done, she finally looked up at him. She didn't know if any of this was important now, but each small step, each attempt to be who she needed to be for her people, would take her closer to her destiny. Closer to making her parents proud. And with any luck, closer to making her a good Queen.

 

[Staine]

Guiding her to the gardens under the watchful eyes of Sylvane, Mikkel drew in a deep breath. The air out here was crisp and fresh, even more so then when they had first set off though that was likely a result of being so close to his home. You could feel the chill in the air, almost taste the mountains and the freedom that came with them. Edurne was an isolated, seldom visited place in the kingdom of Jacira, one that not everybody even knew existed. Centuries passed with only a few visitors, usually the royal family and their closest confidants to oversee the rituals and training that went on there. Technology was scarce, they lived the old way and every newborn was tested by the seers and witches that oversaw the village for any sign of the blessing. Or curse, depending on how one looked at it. Reflexively Mikkel's hand came up to rub his jacket, the arm of which hid one of the many tattoos that he had been adorned with during his youth after much testing to see just what blessings he possessed and where they lay. He was excited to return, it had been over a decade since he last set foot in the village, he was sure the old witch was still ruling, she had seemed ancient when he had left, not in appearance or form, but the way she spoke, the look in her eyes. Magic was strong there, even a human such as her could manage to slow ageing to a crawl, closely guarded secrets that now Emmeline might need to stitch her kingdom back together. Once they reached the garden, he followed her, let her find the flowers she wanted and pick some, sitting beside her while she fashioned them into a crown for herself to wear, smiling as he gathered his thoughts and enjoyed the peaceful quiet with her.

His arm slipped around her to hold her into his side while she worked, hand on her shoulder squeezing gently to reassure her of his presence and he was looking around constantly. There was no danger here, vampires couldn't fly, not quite, but even with personally chosen crew and staff he was going to do his due diligence and be on guard, he wasn't going to lose her too. He shared a few looks with Sylvane who was leaning against one of the lamp posts by the hedge, the glass filled not with oil or flame but small orbs of light which floated and crossed over each other, colour changing on occasion from yellows to greens and oranges, the light always bright and pretty. It looked cruel, like captured fireflies but Mikkel knew from when he had asked the late Queen that they were not live creatures but merely conjured apparitions. "Your people are...reeling, princess. I think your uncle has taken it upon himself to try and rule in Arunika but we left so soon and haven't received any word as to his plans yet, I don't know if he plans to take up the throne or if he is trying to just rally the people." He took a deep breath. He hadn't expected her to ask, but she had, and he wouldn't lie to her. "When we did leave I could already see there were two growing factions in the city, those that blame the humans and those that think it's a plan by those that feel uniting the bloodlines was a mistake, and your uncle was one of those against that if I recall. I felt it best to get us out of there before any came for you."

He smiled down at her and her crown, beautifully made just like she had done many times before. "Soon we will be in Edurne, we can ask for guidance and rest easy knowing you are safe. I think the best course of action would be for us to gather allies while we wait to see what happens in Arunika and Jacira, see if your uncle plans to pass the throne to you or not, because you are the rightful heir, the ruler of both kingdoms, and I don't want to think of what will happen if the humans take advantage of the disarray." Speaking so plainly in front of Sylvane, Mikkel was glad he had chosen the vampire to come on the ship with them. While he trusted all to some degree, the guards that had watched over his princess for most of her life he felt he could share his confidence with. "There are little more than 250 on the Datura, and supplies to last us most of the year, the ship has always been well maintained. Loyal too, I hope." He glanced towards Sylvane, who gave a friendly smile and a gesture. "Yah, that sounds about right. Don't worry, princess Emmeline, most of us know you're the one that should rule, both kingdoms were fond of your parents for the most part, and those that weren't, well fuck em. Stodgy old bastards with their heads up their own arses and too scared of change, let's see how they like it when the humans start to invade, they'll see that we are stronger together. Your parents believed that, so do we." The man spoke roughly, his words often crass but it gave Mikkel comfort that he wore his heart on his sleeve, a trait rare in one from Jacira. "So you see? For now you shouldn't worry about it and enjoy the journey, there will be plenty of time to think about where we go next once we reach Edurne. I can't wait to show you the mountains." He reached down and adjusted her hair, chuckling. "Though I ask that you don't look too unfavourably on what they might make me wear. It's a different world than that you're used to."

 

[Bunny]

She didn't miss it as Mikkel's hand rubbed his arm and she gave him a small frown, looking at his arm. Had he hurt himself? Emmeline let the worry pass as his arm slid around her. Small frame leaning into him she let out a small breath just before he began to answer her question. She knew that he and even the people aboard the airship would allow her longer to grieve, however, those who had murdered her parents were no doubt setting up their pawns, ready to snatch her crown from her head while she did. She wouldn't allow them to rob her of her birthright.. She nodded some. "I can understand that feeling.." Her words trailed off and she sighed, face turning heavenward. Her uncle had never been anything but kind to her, a mirror of his elder brother, but she was his niece... Even if he wasn't behind it, he had no love for her parent's union.. and might try and steal half of her kingdom, leaving her with the other. Assuming some other relative didn't come out of the woodwork and attempt to over throw her right in Jacira as well.

Emme bit her lower lip and looked to Mikkel. "Do you think it was the humans.. or some other faction unhappy with their union?" She had been heavily sheltered from the complications that surrounded the kingdom. Emmeline knew why, she was still so young.. Though a human teenage might have started to learn the in and outs of their kingdom, they lived fragile lives and needed to learn quicker. She'd easily live hundreds of years, baring assassination. So, her mother and father had let her have her childhood. No one had imagined that they would die, leaving their daughter without the proper information needed to rule. That now feel to Mikkel to bear the brunt of. "I wouldn't have thought to do such, thank you." It would have been her folly but she would have turned to the family in her kingdom for support.. Had he been behind it? He could have easily done away with her as well.

All this was happening too fast. She was being forced into a role she was ill prepared for and she could feel the strain of it. "Guidance, from who?" She wondered if it was the witch, who he'd spoken of before. One hand rose to rub at her temple.. Feeling the start of a headache coming on. Her eyes met Mikkel's before moving to Sylvane. Her smile was soft as he spoke. His words while crass, comforted her oddly enough. Rising she looked at Mikkel, her eyes dancing, one delicate brow rising. "What they make you wear?" Waiting for him to also rise with her, handing him the pale flower crown, with a soft mummered please, she started to head back out of the gardens, the crown held loosely in her hand. Their path back out was just as measured, taking her time for solitude, besides, she needed more than one crown.. A second one of Chocolate Daises was fashioned to match the pale blooms of the first. Some of her people had seen her, but not enough.

Heading for the mess hall, she inclined her head to those who bowed when they saw her. Her soft voice offering a greeting here and there. Looking over her shoulder at Mikkel and Sylvane she took a deep breath before stepping into the crowded hall. Not everyone was the, but a fair number of families took their meal upon long wooden benches. She wasn't noticed at first by all, but one woman nursing a babe saw her and rose. "Your Majesty!" Her sweet voice rising above the din. The benches scrapped back as people rushed to stand. "No..." Her voice died, not quick enough to stop the display of respect. "Please.. I didn't mean to interrupt your meal" Her cheeks flamed brightly, suddenly uneasy. She had just wanted to give a child the crown she'd made, and let the people see her.

Her people went back to their meal, though no one seemed inclined to ignore that she walked between the tables. Mikkel had said she didn't need to talk to them and she knew she didn't have to, but she was here.... Those she knew, she greeted. Though it was a woeful number of people. Those she didn't know she paused to talk to.. Picking people of each bloodline at random, never giving any more or less attention. Asking their names, what they did. Finally she approached a small child with deep black hair, so dark it was almost purple in the lights. "Hello little one" her voice was soft as she smiled at her parents, kneeling beside the little girl. "What's your name?" Shy, the small girl curled into her mother's side. "Her name is Sorrel" Her mother smiled at her shyly as well. "Sorrel, what a pretty name" her voice crooned and she smiled at the child brightly. The crown of flowers was placed on her head. "Tonight, you shall be the princess of the sun" The little girl was clearly of the Jacira bloodline, but Emme was not stupid. Touching the little girls sticky cheek, she kissed her forehead and rose. The mother and father thanked her and Sorrel gave her a brave smile.

This continued until she found a family with a young boy of eight or nine. "Hello" She noted his wooden sword and she smiled, flashing dainty fangs. "Are you a knight?" The boy's chest swelled and he nodded. His mop of fiery red hair curling this way and that. "Yeah! I will protect you M'lady!" He declared sweetly, brandishing the wooden blade. Holding back a chuckle she nodded solemnly. "I have no doubt you'd best any foe who came to call. What is your name, brave sir knight?" Her words holding a serious note, taking his bravery with the respect it deserved. "Kellis, M'lady" Her head bent and she whispered conspiratorially, "Kellis! In fact Kellis, I bet you could even take on Sylvane or Mikkel even and come out victorious!" He boy swelled with pride and she smiled. "Would you be my moon prince?" Blushing brightly the boy, stuttered his acceptance of such a title. Holding her hand out for the crown Mikkel held she place it upon his mop of flames. A kiss was placed on his forehead and the boy turned a shade of red that rivaled his hair.

Stepping back, she moved to others.. Greeting a few more before retreating. Even if the interaction had made her feel better, it was draining. Heading for her rooms once more, her pace intentionally measured. She hoped she'd helped.. That her idea to crown children as the other's prince and princess would be a clear message... One well received.

 

[Staine]

"I honestly couldn't tell you Emme, I would like to believe it's a human plot but there have been rumours of workings to foil the union for years now, starting before your birth even. It would be foolish to not consider them a threat when something of this magnitude could very well be an inside plot. If it isn't, then we have other concerns too, such as how humans managed to sway a vampire, because no human could have infiltrated our home, of that I'm certain." Walking with her out of the gardens, holding the crown she had handed to him as thought it were the most valuable thing in the world, Mikkel spoke as plainly as he could without trying to draw her thoughts to the assassination itself, to thoughts of her parents. She had been so brave today, and judging by where she seemed to be leading him, had plans to be even more so. The last thing he wanted to do was add to that. She was strong, he knew that, she could take it but he would never want her to have to. He laughed softly at her questioning him, a welcome distraction from matters of the kingdom. "Yes...what they make me wear. You have to understand my village is...not as civilised as you might be used to, and the way I was trained and taught to fight, to endure the cold...just keep an open mind, princess." He could hear Sylvane snort behind him and he shook his head, he had no doubt the guard was also eager to see what he was talking about now. "Guidance will be from the witch who raised me. We can speak more of this later, if you wish, I don't think your mother or father ever told you where I am from, did they? Or why I was chosen as your godfather?"

Entering the mess hall behind her, Mikkel tried to stay silent as he watched, eyes flicking around to see how the people were managing. There seemed to be tension in the room, but for the most part they were as expected from those he had chosen and their families, all supporters of the union and the princess. Seeing Emmeline speak to the first child he couldn't help but smile with pride at how she handled it, placing the sun crown on the head of the girl clearly from the Lunnesvet bloodline, and as she moved on her lingered behind, smiling down at the newly crowned sun princess. "My lady Sorrel, you will no doubt bless us with grace and beauty. A fine choice to be our princess of the sun." He chuckled as the girl put on a brave face and smiled, clearly nervous but there was excitement in her eyes and why not, the princess had chosen her. He nodded to the parents, their eyes meeting in silent understanding as he followed behind his own princess. Handing her the crown he watched as she spoke to the boy, a Solvesnet being crowned the moon prince. His hands now free, he held one out to shake the boys hand and winced playfully as it was taken. "A fine grip, strong like the protector of our joined kingdoms should be! I think my princess is right, I wouldn't want to face you in battle, prince Kellis of the moon!" A hearty laugh and he could hear Sylvane chuckling behind him too as he shook the boy's hand and then released him, moving on to step beside Emmeline and reaching down to take her hand instead.

"Come now princess, we have duties to attend to, I know you wish you could spend more time here but I must insist we go back to your chambers." He spoke loudly, loud enough for everybody in the room to hear as he took on the role of pushy, dutiful butler keeping the princess from spending time with her people. He knew she was most likely exhausted by the brave face she had to put on but they didn't need to know that, that they blamed him for her absence would be better in his eyes. He guided her back towards her chambers, and at the door he paused while she went inside, stopping to thank Sylvane. "Thank you for the escort my friend, and you Garlas for guarding the princess. I know times are hard, but your presence gives her comfort, I know that." Sylvane nodded, they had heard his opinion already and Garlas looked to the door he was guarding. "Poor thing...I hope she knows that everybody on the Datura is behind her and many more besides, in both kingdoms. The king and queen were loved, great people and they raised her well. It's my pleasure to be here." Mikkel smiled and laid a hand on his shoulder. "You should both spend some time with your families tomorrow, I'd like you both to accompany us into Edurne when we get there." He stepped into the room and closed the door behind him, turning to face Emmeline with a soft smile. "You make me so proud, Emme, do you know that? I meant us to go for a walk, not for you to do such a thing for your people. They would be so proud to see you, it must have been difficult." He placed his hand on her head and looked down at her. "Now more than ever I know you are the rightful ruler, I swear I see your mother and father both in you."

 

[Bunny]

Mikkel. His name was warm in her mind as he noticed she was starting to struggle. She could never hide anything from him. It didn't matter what she was trying to hide, who had hidden this or that from one of the guards, feeling ill because she had eaten too many sweets, sad because some other kids had been mean and even when she had one of her panic attacks.. She could hide it from most everyone else, and they suspected nothing. He however knew the smallest changes in her tone, her demeanor, her face and actions. Normally it was a source of at least playful aggravation, her secrets never allowed to be secrets near him. Though on days like this, it was welcome that Mikkel was so in tune with her that he shoulder any blame to spirit her away.

Back inside her rooms, she gently picked her crown off her head and laid it on the table reverently, the gemstones glinting in the electric lights that illuminated the suite. She could hear the men speaking, the words of Garlas. A soft smile on her lips. She'd always though everyone had felt this way, until about the age of eleven. That their people have loved her parents. The golden king and the moonlit queen... Shaking that memory away she turned as Mikkel entered her chambers. The comforting weight of his hand as he gazed down at her, spoke his words of praise, his smooth voice comforting, his accent thicker as it caressed her name. Her smile was shy and she nodded slowly. "Thank you for rescuing me, I didn't know how to exit gracefully.." The words softer. Shifting in place she gently pulled away. "I am going to change" She'd only been dressed for a few hours, but she didn't plan on leaving again and Mikkel knew her penchant for wandering around in night gowns when not expected places.

She was only gone for a few moments, before reappearing in a red nightgown. The fabric was soft cotton, with black flowers stitched into the hem and along the bodice. Thin spaghetti straps held the dress up and it feel to mid thigh. The nightgown fell along her soft curves, slightly tighter along the bust and the gentle swell of her hips. It wasn't lewd however, and she could had she wised to gone out in it. If she wasn't the princess.. Running fingers through her hair as she exited the bathroom, the golden locks tumbling down her back in soft waves, she took a seat near the bank of windows, looking out into the starry sky. She'd asked them a long time ago to not light up outside her room, letting her see the stars without competition.

"Do you think.. That the crown idea was good?" Her voice was unsure and she bit her lower lip, looking to him from the comfort of the plush leather couch her small form hand sunk into her. Black though high stockings rode her slender legs, her feet free from shoes. Black covered toes pushed nervously against the brass pedestal that held the table up, a small fidget of motion. Hands folded and unfolded in her lap, her nerves and doubts mounting slowly. She had thought it a good idea, to show they were still one people.. But what if someone took offense?

 

[Staine]

Looking down at her Mikkel smiled, nodding as she thanked him for doing what had only felt right. Protecting her. It was his duty, no, his pleasure to make sure his princess was safe and happy, not just physically but mentally too. She had pushed herself tonight, he knew that, he was so very proud of her and had said as much but he was sure she still had doubts. She was like her mother in that regard...Lucian had his own doubts but the man had not let them weigh on him, it was the Solnesvet way, to always move forward and not dwell on the past, what could have been. What should have been said, what they should have done. There was no room for such things among the vampires of the sun. The Lunnesvet were often stuck in their own heads and liked to learn from the past but it also led to doubt. Alexandria had often talked to Mikkel about such things, worried if her actions and words had been the right ones, pushing herself to do more and still thinking it wasn't enough. He felt Emmeline pull away away and let his hand fall from her head. "Go change, my princess, I will be right here waiting for you. Your people will talk of your generosity tonight, of that I'm certain." His words, and his tone, were both warm and the smile was in his voice and his eyes, almost beaming at her. It was a rare sight, but Mikkel couldn't have been happier with what she had done.

While she was gone, he walked around the room tidying away little bits and pieces, making it as immaculate as it should be, an act of nerves more than anything else. When she returned, he chuckled to see her wearing a familiar nightgown that he knew she often favoured, light, comfortable fabrics that let her feel the cool air as it came in through the open window. "Were your clothes that uncomfortable, princess? We can find something both regal and comfortable I am sure, and even if it isn't he most presentable I am certain your people would allow you some comforts right now." Mikkel couldn't take his eyes off her, she was truly beautiful, there would be songs written about her when she took up the crown, he had heard more than a few ballads about her late mother and she had the same look, but with her father's golden hair, a trait unheard of in the Lunnesvet royal family whom had all shared the raven locks of Alexandria. As she sat by the window he took up a seat next to her.

"I do, princess, it was deftly done. You have your father's charisma and your mother's gift for diplomacy. You made the children smile and the adults see that you cared, and you did it all in a way that none could take offence at." He leaned forward and took up her hand. "Don't doubt yourself, I know it's difficult but the people aboard the Datura love you dearly, even in these dark times they see only their princess, and they will be here for you as you are for them." He squeezed her hand gently. "And soon we will be in Edurne anyway, you will get to walk in the fresh, crisp mountain air and enjoy some freedom away from this stuffy place. I think you're going to love it there...have you ever seen an alpaca? I don't think you have." He was trying to steer the conversation to something happier, anything to take her mind off it. "It's a world apart, nothing like the city, courts and aristocrats to curtsy to, you can truly be yourself and nobody will think twice about it."

 

[Bunny]

Emme stuck her tongue out at him when he asked about her clothes. "No" The tone playfully sulky. Arms folded under her breasts, her eyes narrowing. "But, I am not going to go back out! So I wanted to wear my PJs." She knew he was right, the'd likely let her... But they would also remember how she handled herself during this time. People against her wouldn't let such a lapse go as easily. "And they would.. I am sure. But, I don't mind the clothes normally. They are comfortable enough" Her fingers lifted the edges of her skirt some, the fabric rising slightly. "But this is more comfortable!"

She smiled as he took her small hand in his own larger one. His words soothed the worry she had of offending someone. "I can't help it... I don't know how to lead a nation let alone two.." She sighed and nodded, letting him distract her with talks of his home. Emmeline loved the way his face changed when he talked of his home. Golden hair swayed to one side as her head tilted. "Alpaca?" She knew the word, and could picture a fluffy animal in her mind. "What do they look like?" Her smile was soft, and she allowed him to pull her mind away from everything.

As they talked, and he told her things about his home, explained what an alpaca looked like.. He even after a while of bugging him, told her more about the outfit. Giggling she'd kissed his cheek and yawned. Dawn was approaching quickly and she could feel the suns ascent into the sky. "Mikkel?" she bit her lower lip. "Will you cuddle me while I sleep?" That request repeated every day until they arrived at his village and she feel asleep in the warmth of his arms, surrounded by his scent. Safe. The nights between were spent wandering the ship with him and one of her guards as she talked with her people. Mikkel keeping a close eye on her and making excuses with himself to blame when she started to struggle.

---

The night they arrived Emmeline lay within the bed, tossing and turning.. Sleep restless as dreams and nightmares collided violently within her mind. A soft whimper as the darkness outside deepened. Sheets tangled about her small from, hair splayed, limbs askew. Another soft whimper, her eyes beneath blue tinged eyelids flickering. One small hand curled into a fist, nails biting into the skin of her palm. Not even when she drew blood did she wake.

 

[Staine]

Mikkel laughed softly, nodding at her astute observation that she wouldn't be going back out tonight. "Indeed, princess, that is so. Okay, I just wanted to check, I could have had some more comfortable clothes made out for you for next time." Her comfort on the forefront of his mind, doting on her was just a way of life for Mikkel now, and he did it well, treating her like the young woman she was. He smiled sadly and shook his head as she commented on her lack of experience. "Nobody knows how to lead a nation until they do it, Emmeline, but I know you have it in you. I've watched you grow into a fine young princess and you have both your mother and father in you." He squeezed her hand again. "Nobody is better suited for the task, I'm just sorry it came to you so young. You should have had more time." There was a tear threatening to form in his eye as he spoke, and he had to pull his hand back to wipe at it under the pretence of scratching his nose. The conversation moved on and he smiled wider, deciding to regale her with tales of his village. "Yes, Alpacas! Cuddly things, it's where we get the wool to keep us warm and the children do like to pet them. I know you love animals, I think you're going to adore them!" He spoke on about the mountains and the rare flowers that grew there, about ice fishing and even the clothes he would have to wear for ritual purposes. "The warrior's garb...it's meant to signify that we can stand the cold and don't need armour. Fur and cloth loincloth, leather bracers and boots and little else to undergo the trials." He raised an eyebrow at her. "So no laughing, I know you never see me outside of these suits, we live a more dignified life here." Adjusting had been difficult at first, wearing suits and fine fabrics, dress clothes and keeping them so perfectly clean, but he had years of practice now, it was going to be in Edurne that he felt out of place a little. Even Mikkel was a little nervous.

Her request had surprised him but he had nodded, climbing on top of the covers as she had laid down and placing an arm over her, cuddling into his princess from behind. "Of course I will, I'm always going to be here for you, Emmy. No matter what." He planted a soft kiss on the back of her head, something he hadn't done in quite some time. If anybody had walked in on them...no, nobody would think the worst of a butler, her godfather comforting her at a time like this. Listening to her fall asleep, he was still awake for a couple of hours until he too drifted off. The next few night followed in kind, with him using his own blood for her breakfast and meals, getting up early to prepare them, shower and change out of the clothes he was sleeping in. He hadn't been able to figure out how to bring it up yet, that she was taking in his blood but he knew he would have to sooner or later, she would soon need more if he understood correctly, normal food just wouldn't be able to sustain her. More walks through the Datura, meeting with families and showing herself, making her parents proud.

On the night they arrived, she stirred, asleep in his arms as she had been every night since she had asked. Mikkel woke to her whimpering, the spicy tang of blood hitting his nostrils first. "Princess?" She was clearly having a bad dream and he glanced down to see the trickle of blood on her hand, shaking her by the shoulder. "Emmeline, wake up, you're having a nightmare, it isn't real..." Even now his voice was low, he didn't want the guards to burst in, he wanted to protect her image. Shaking her harder, he pressed her onto her back and prised her fingers from her hands, placing his own in them to stop her piercing her own flesh with her nails while he pinned them to the sides of her head. Leaning over her like this, almost pressing down on her though his body remained mostly at her side, he knew that if they guards entered it would look aggressive. Even Sylvane and Garlas would have to act first and drag him off her, though he was sure they would see reason. Thankfully, it was quiet for now. "Princess wake up, you're having a nightmare!" His voice was now a hissed whisper, harsher to get her attention as he lingered over her and from the pain of her nails biting into his own hand, drawing blood. She was stronger than she looked...she hadn't had the gifts that came with being a vampire yet due to her age, the strength, the mesmerising abilities, the speed, the durability...but in that moment she might even be as strong as he was in his human form, or stronger.

 

[Bunny]

Blood. There was blood everywhere. She couldn't even tell where she was, the wall coated with the red substance. Darker, thicker patches dripped down along the surfaces. The metallic smell of iron filling her nose. The dream shifted and she was covered in the blood, in a tub full of it. The warm liquid lapping at her bare breasts. Thicker than water, it stained her pure white skin red. The dreams, nightmares mingling as the scenes clashed with more erotic ones. Things she'd never experienced, her body covered with others, lips.. tongues.. teeth. Her own teeth buried in the neck of a young woman only a few years older than her.

The first thing Emmeline knew was the face she was pinned. Her body reacted instinctively, fight against what held her down. The second and third clashed against her consciousness at the same moment. Hunger and pain. The last thing she registered was Mikkel's voice, low but urgent. Dark lashes flew open and she found herself starring into the concerned face of her godfather. Confusion was the first emotion in her eyes. Why was he holding her down? Fear spiked after. Not because he held her down to her soft bed, she trusted the man above her fully. The fear was because Emme didn't understand. Warmth brushed her fingers and she frowned her head turning to the side, eyes rolling upwards. Mikkel's blood coated her nails and the tips of her fingers. Instantly her fingers went slack and she turned her eyes back to him, her chest rising and falling quicker as the panic took a deeper route as she began to hyperventilate. Emme could still feel the pain, but it wasn't as large of a concern for her.

"Mikkel?" Her voice trembled as the first rip of pain tore through her stomach. Her back arched and she let out a breathy cry of pain. It felt like knives or claws within her stomach, tearing along the walls. The urge hit her so fast she rolled, tossing Mikkel off her like it was nothing, Emmeline scrambled towards the bathroom. The door sounded with a crack, the sound reverberating through her chambers as she feel to her knees painfully. Seconds, Emme had seconds to hand her head over the toilet before she began to throw up. Black, red and chunks. That was what she saw before she closed her eyes against the sight. Minutes, years.. passed as her stomach voided the contacts within. Sweet glistened at her brow and she laid her head against her arm, panting softly. Her world swam and even on her knees, hing over the bowl she swayed. A soft pitiful sound coming from deep within her throat. As another wave of nausea hit her, the sounds of retching coming once more.

Emmeline didn't know how long she threw up, blearily flushing away the contents of her stomach, eyes closed tight. Lowering herself further she laid against the cool tile of the bath, curled into a ball. She could feel tears mingle with sweat and she whimpered again. Had she eaten something bad? Her world seemed different somehow. Sharper lines, the sounds amplified.. Emme didn't even consider her body was changing. It shouldn't have happened till her twenties.. Her aging stopping as she began to crave blood. Her mother had told her about this change, how would happen, when and so it wasn't even a thought in her floating consciousness.

 

[Staine]

The pain wasn't so bad, not really...Mikkel had been through far worse than some fingernails digging into his palms and so he didn't even try to pull back he kept his hold on her, or rather kept her hold on him, while he desperately tried to wake her. Slowly her eyes opened and he witnessed the emotions flashing through them one by one, confusion, panic...the way her eyes rolled upwards and he felt her grip go slack, pressure released causing a small spike of pain in his hands as she looked back up at him. He could feel her hyperventilating, still breathing at least even if a full grown vampire didn't really have to. Was she considered that way now that the quickening was upon her? His voice was on her lips, trembling and soft before she suddenly rolled, taking him along with her. She was strong...if he hadn't known when she was gripping his hands he knew now that she was easily stronger than him, the strength of a vampire, and her father's bloodline to boot, had not wasted any time in manifesting within her at least to some degree. Tossed aside, he watched from the bed as she fled into the bathroom. "Princess, it's okay, don't be scared, you're just..." It was too late, the door slammed behind her. She was gone.

He could hear the sounds that shortly followed as he climbed up to his feet, grabbing some tissue paper to clean the worst of their mingled blood from his hands, wincing a little as he roughly scrubbed over the small wounds. Looking to the window for the first time, the sun was just going down through the blinds, the glass was shielding them from the sun's harmful rays anyway so waking up in the daytime wasn't so bad, she wasn't going to suddenly burn but what it meant was that for now, outside, the guards should be fey. They couldn't hear like the vampires could, so it was probably safe enough to go without alerting them. He knocked on the bathroom door after a few minutes, then waited. He knocked again, no answer. Another knock and he was worried, way beyond waiting for her to come out or answer him he opened the door to find her curled up, whimpering. He could see the tears and his heart sank...he had heard how awful this could feel to a new vampire, most prepared, fasted once signs had showed, she hadn't, and he hadn't warned her it was coming.

"Emmy..." he lowered himself to the floor beside her, knowing he had made a bad call in not preparing her. "Shhh, it's okay, it's just the quickening...early I think." It was hard to bring up the topic, to tell her he had known, but he couldn't just hide things from her. "You're too young, you're not meant to need blood yet, but...your food. I've been..." How was he meant to get the words out? How could he tell her he had been dosing her food so that she could enjoy it better, so that she had one less thing to worry about in her future, he had expected the process to last longer at least but the trauma seemed to have spread things up. "I put my blood in it so you could eat...I'm sorry, Emmy. Please forgive me." He reached down and stroked a bloodied hand along her side, over her nightgown. "Come here...feeding, it might help, I think my blood is okay...we don't have to tell anybody, no announcement, not yet." More than anything he wanted her to not have adult decisions and responsibilities to make every day, it was too much for anybody, the pressure had to be killing her. He curled up behind her like when they slept, his chest against her back, one arm around her, his wrist pressing against her lips. "Bite, princess. Feed."

 

[Bunny]

The words Mikkel spoke slipped through the haze of pain. Quickening? "No" The word was moaned out. The quickening couldn't be upon her, she wasn't of age. It was hard to focus on the details her mother had once told her about the change. Emmy could hear his voice rumbling out, the words heard, but understanding them was a whole other thing. It was his blood that drew her attention, her pretty mismatched eyes honing onto the blood on his hand. Hunger rippled through her and though she was a vampire, a small part of her mind couldn't help but feel revulsion at the need that clawed inside her. Her mind rebelled against the needs of her body. She didn't want to only drink blood! The sentiment was childish, even she knew it. Whether or not she wanted to drink blood, there would be no other choice. Sweetly buttered and jam covered toast would be a thing of the past.

She felt Mikkel behind her, cuddling against her back. Shaking her head as he held his wrist to her lips. The scent of blood was closer and something awoke inside her and she gave a low, feral growl. "I'm not ready!" Her words were desperate, but as she spoke... it wasn't just the scent of blood, she could taste it as well. The struggle within evaporated as the need, the hunger and the beast that she was surfaced. Two small hands rose to cup his hand and arm within their steely grasp as her teeth pierced his skin. It was like a sharp knife through paper, the way her fangs broke through his skin. Within moments she was suckling at his wrist, her body curling in on itself as she drank. Emmeline knew nothing of blood and the difference. How Mikkel's blood was stronger than most, how his life blood filled her veins, she grew stronger or how the last of her 'human' side died.

The bathroom for a long while was filled with the soft sounds of her drinking, thought occasionally a soft little sound, akin to moan left her. Restraint wasn't known by her and she didn't know when to stop. Her features didn't change or anything so ridiculous as she underwent the quickening. Though that wasn't to say she didn't change at all. Her delicate and lovely features becoming finer. Her pale skin now like porcelain, her golden hair more brilliant. Numerous other small changes occurring as the Princess drank greedily.

 

[Staine]

Mikkel frowned as he heard the word, he knew what she must be thinking...it was too soon, he knew that himself. When the quickening happened vampires stopped ageing, they became locked as they, their features changed subtly, beauty enhanced, skin flawlessly preserved and the colours of their hair and eyes more vibrant for a start. Their body went many more changes too, food would no longer taste the same, blood would be what sustained them from then on coming with it's own flavours. Senses enhanced and they would have to relearn how to use them and all that was just the tip of the proverbial iceberg, just things he knew from talking with Alexandria. That she would undergo the changes so young was robbing her of years of her life as 'human', something else the assassin had taken from her besides her parent, and Mikkel couldn't help but shed a tear for the loss. "I'm so sorry princess, but there is no way to reverse it...you need to feed, or you will die, and I cannot lose you...I won't lose you, you're the most important thing in my life now." In truth, she had been for a while. At first he had looked after her mostly because he was asked by Alexandria, she had been his everything, he had been trained to be her shadow, expected to bond with her and because her child had been important to her she had been important to Mikkel but it had taken almost no time at all for his priorities to shift. He had fell in love with the child, doted on her, watched her grow into the finest young woman he could ever hope for her to be.

"I know...I know you don't think you're ready but you're strong, and I am here. Take my blood, drink, let it sustain you." The words were soft and he refused to pull back, not that he had to as he felt her hands on his forearm. A flash of pain as the dainty fangs pierced his flesh and a soft grunt as he felt her being to draw blood from him. It was painful...surprisingly he had never been fed from before despite living in two kingdoms full of vampires. Alexandria knew the taste of his blood, she had asked him once before to share out of curiosity as they spoke but she had never drank from him, he had bled into a glass for her and she had consumed it in front of him. She had said it tasted like warm winter spice with a slight tang to it, sweetness like blackcurrant clinging to it. He didn't know the truth of it, vampires tasted blood differently so he couldn't even verify it, no other had tasted it since, until now. "Easy there Emmy, don't take too much, pace yourself..." She had curled in on herself, almost wrapping around his arm and slowly he started to realise she might not have the restraint to stop.

He tried to pull away, but she was strong...getting stronger by the second as his powerful blood flowed into her. Soft moans came from her, the sounds almost sexual as she refused to release him and he gasped, starting to feel a little woozy, light-headed from the blood loss. "Princess, please...release me, I don't know how much more..." He had to get her attention somehow, he was pulling hard against her but it was like being trapped in a vice. He growled, fighting the transformation his body wanted to make, it wouldn't help him and might freak her out more, his one free arm was on her shoulder, trying to pull her back. A shock...that was all he could think of, something to pull her back to reality, to draw her attention to him as he was fading quickly but what would do it? He could think only of two things. He leaned close and seeing the soft, pristine flesh exposed around her shoulder, unhidden by the thin strap of her nightgown he sank his teeth into her, not hard enough to break the skin but it would hurt, a soft growl as he did so. At the same time, he did something he hadn't done to her for a long time, not since she was younger and misbehaving. His hand came up and then crashing down, landing on her rear, the nightgown barely protecting her as the loud slap reverberated through the room. He was losing consciousness, his hand remained where it was as he released the bite, his tone weak as his vision started to darken a little. "Emmeline...I love you..." He could feel himself losing the battle to stay conscious and should the worst happen he had to remind her that he wasn't angry, he forgave her, he truly loved his princess no matter what.

 

[Bunny]

Words buzzed at her ears like annoying little gnats, the words didn't matter. All that mattered was the strength she pulled into herself with each greedy mouthful of power. The taste was spicy and sweet and reminded her of brisk winter mornings with a cup of spicy mulled wine. Sweet berries, clove and cinnamon. She was unaware in the blood lust what was happening to Mikkel. That feral part of her cared not, each mouthful as he grew weaker, she grew stronger. Her focus honed in on the first true taste of blood. That was until something changed.

Pain, sweet and intoxicating rippled through her, starting at her shoulder and spreading from there. While that shock of feeling bled through her system another joined it. Pain blossomed along her rear, gasping her teeth left his wrist. That was all it took for her mind to take back over, the civilized part of who she was as a vampire once more in control. Giddy, that was how she felt, but the words that rang in her ears, the last little gnats from Mikkel's mouth taking hold. The elation and high of her deep feeding vanished like smoke and she rolled over, fluid grace like that of a feline, had her facing him within a heartbeat. "Mikkel!" There was panic to her voice, his eyes heavy lidded and his pupils large drowning out the golden irises. "Fuck" It was highly inappropriate for her to curse, she knew that and had Mikkel not been on the verge of passing out he might have said something about it. The thought made her smile, if only for a moment. Panic chased away the small fleeting smile.

Sitting up she hooked her hands under his armpits and pulled. It was if the bulk of the man on the floor before her was nothing. She was able to easily pull him towards the bed, however as she neared it she swore again. Her ears could pick up the shift change and she knew that the voices she heard were not Sylvane or Garlas. She needed help though. The person she trusted most lay near death in her arms.... She'd have to trust Cassius and Kieran. They, like Slyvane and Garlas had known her since birth. There was never a time that they had not been near by, one of the four watching her grow. A whimper of frustration at anyone seeing what she'd done was chased away by her desire to make sure Mikkel would be alright. "Damndamndamndamn!" Tears shimmered in her eyes, making the now liquid gold with flecks of bronze and emerald eyes with flecks of silver glassy. "Help!" Her voice raised loud enough that the fear, panic and pain reached the guards.

The door burst open and within the doorway two tall figures stood, weapons drawn. Cassius reacted first, sword and pistol sheathed in the blink of an eye. Another and he had lifted Mikkel into his arms and laid him on her bed. Tears fell freely now as she babbled out what had happened. "I will watch the door" Kieran said, in his deep voice. He wanted to comfort the small Princess, knowing what had happened without her rambling explanation. He'd make sure no one came near the room, her secret.. and shame known only to the four of them. "Princess, shhhh it's okay. Mikkel will be fine. Stop your tears now" The heavily accented voice of Cassius reverberated through the room. "Sit with him lass, I will get some food for him. But seeing that you're okay when his senses return will sooth him more than anything." He too wished to comfort her further, but they knew what Mikkel was... And all four of her vampire guards had a feeling that while the Princess was definitely unaware, Mikkel was as well, to the shift in his feelings. Their scent on the Princess while she was so clearly distraught, scared? There was a high chance the beast that lived just beneath his skin would not realized that they were not the cause and attack.

Nodding she sat on the edge of the bed, tears trailing down her cheeks and hiccuping as she held his hand to her heart, nestled between her breasts. "I am so sorry." Her voice was sad and oh so pitiful. "I didn't mean to" tears fell faster as she whispered her apologies. Outside the door Kieran's heart broke for her. He knew Mikkel would be okay, but it would be a long time before Emmeline forgave herself.

 

[Staine]

Her voice was dim, muffled like he was underwater, at the bottom of a deep well while she shouted to him from far above. Mikkel. Fuck. Damndamndamndamn. In the haze of his mind, loopy and out of it though he was he still wanted to chastise her for the unladylike language, only a low groan escaped him in reality though as Mikkel could barely move, breath ragged and uncontrolled. He had the sensation of being dragged, carried which made his entire world turn and spin and the feeling of his stomach lurching as other hands were on him, lifting him up. Softness enveloped him. Was he on the bed? He couldn't quite tell. Hands were on him, strong, masculine unlike the softer touch of Emmeline. Was it Sylvane? No, that voice echoing in the distance. Cassius. Footsteps receded into the distance and he was left with just her voice again. He wanted to tell her it was okay, he knew she hadn't meant it, she hadn't been in control but only another soft gasp and a groan came out, mumbled words that didn't mean anything at all. His hand was warm, pressed against soft flesh, her chest? He couldn't feel a heartbeat. That was right, he wouldn't, would he? He didn't even know if her heart still beat, maybe he was just too weak to feel it.

Footsteps got louder again and he could hear the voice, see the blurry image of the vampire returning with food, bread and cheese. "Here, this should help. It ain't fancy but it will make him feel better, I have some meat too, just jerky, didn't have time to cook anything up." Something was held to his lips, cool. Water? He drank, he felt parched anyway, a weak hand reaching up to grasp the cup, the icy liquid trickling down his throat. Next came the food and he managed to bite a piece of the bread off, being fed like he was a child, too weak to do it himself. Slowly he could feel himself start to recover, it wasn't fast, he wasn't ready to stand or much of anything, it was more like he was floating to the top of the well. As his stomach filled, sounds became clearer, the lights and images in front of him came into focus, echoes became words that he could hear with more clarity. "Princess..." It was the first word he managed to speak that didn't sound like just another groan. He had to know she was okay, and to tell her that she had done nothing wrong, she hadn't killed him, she didn't have to worry. Above him he could hear a chuckle which sounded more relieved than full of mirth. "See, lady Emmeline? He'll be right as rain, he's already calling for his princess." If he weren't so out of it Mikkel would have picked up the very edge of the tone, the sound that could only come from the knowing smile on Cassius' face. All of her guards but Mikkel knew that he felt more for Emmeline than even he knew, the butler had spent his life doting on her, she was his entire world. That much he knew, but the depths of his feelings were something that had been noticed by those closest to them, only the two were oblivious. That she was the first thought on his mind when he woke, that her feelings were more important to him than whether he was going to be okay...it spoke volumes.

He took another bite of bread, then some cheese, taking in whatever was held to his lips hungrily. Strength returning, he finally pushed the hand away, his recovery faster than that of a normal human was still painfully slow and he felt he could barely move but at least he could think now, turning his head he could even see her, the tears marring her perfect, beautiful features, staining her face. At the corner of her mouth he could see just a trickle of blood, a thin trail barely an inch long. His blood, all that remained from her feeding from him. He reached up to his own mouth, licking his thumb before he reached up for hers, groaning as he stretched and his fingertips clasped on the back of her neck, using her for purchase as he pulled himself up just a little. Even that movement was painful, he felt a rush of dizziness but he managed to stay just a little upright, his slick thumb wiping over the blood, brushing it away as though it were never there before his strength failed him and he fell back down to the bed with a soft smile. "Emmy, little one...dry your eyes for me, please." Even in the state he was in he managed a weak smile and was already reaching to his pocket, pulling out his handkerchief for her. "It wasn't your fault, I should have known better...I should have prepared you when I noticed days ago." He looked up towards Cassius. "I trust you won't tell anybody...she isn't meant to..." He didn't need to finish the sentence. "Aye, she's far too young for this, nobody needs to know, not yet. I'll talk to the other guards too, let them know, and Keiran is watching the door." The guard turned to Emmeline, a smile on his face. "Your secret is safe with us, princess, I promise, nobody needs to know until you're ready, but there's nothing wrong with it. It's just the quickening, you're young but everybody on the Datura knows you for who you are, I know you're strong enough to handle it."

Mikkel had his eyes on her, he wanted so badly for her to smile, the corners of his own lips turning up as he gazed at her. "Princess...did I hear you swear at me or was I just imagining that?" He chuckled, regretting it immediately as he began to cough, reaching for the water which was pressed into his hand with a loud bark of laughter from Cassius.

 

[Bunny]

The fear and shame didn't lessen as she waited for Cassius to come back with food. Occasionally Mikkel would make some soft sound and pain tore through her heart. She'd hurt him... Almost killed him. She was a monster. Far too young for he quickening and far too upset to see the reasons why her guilt was not warranted. Had she been closer to the age, an older vampire or her parents, would have explained it to her. She would have fasted before the quickening began and her first taste of blood would not have been from a vein but from a cup. Even if the blood lust took over no one else would be in danger.

She'd not been prepared and Mikkel had not though his own actions. Both had landed the pair where the were. Emmy watched ad Cassius fed Mikkel with anxious eyes, her eyes flickering from the food to his face and back again in a dizzying dance. It wasn't until the first words left him that she relaxed even a fraction. Her eyes didn't leave Mikkel's face even as Cassius spoke to her side, her fingers brushed a stray lock of hair back into place. She missed the tone, though she would have never noticed it.. Such things beyond her reckoning. Moments felt like years as Mikkel slowly ate and drank. She could see his body slowly begin to right itself, the pallor loving his cheeks and the shine to his eyes returning. His breathing evened out and his heart no long rushed in a dizzying beat as it tried to pump his blood through his body.

She watched him puzzled as he licked his thumb, though as his larger warm hand cupped the back of her neck her eyes closed. He'd never touched her like that before, but Emmy liked it. The feeling of his fingers curled around the back of her neck. The wetness of his thumb brushing away the last traces on her person of her crime. New tears blossomed in her eyes and she sniffled. Had Cassius not been there, she'd had curled into his chest and cried. Another sniffle as she dashed her tears away from her eyes and cheeks at his request. Though new ones formed in her eyes just as quickly. When he took blame on himself, the tears broke free of the prison of her lashes and trailed down her cheeks once more. Emmy wanted to look at Cassius, but couldn't find the courage to meet his eyes. She only nodded as he left, afraid of what she might see in his eyes, no matter how his voice sounded.

Emmeline looked to Mikkel once more as he spoke. Her eyes widened and she giggled a little. "Can I not answer that under the excuse of emotional duress?" She frowned at Cassius and shooed him out. Determined to look after the man in her bed by herself. Picking up a piece of jerky she offered it to him as he took a sip of water, the water taken with her other hand. As the door closed she frowned. "I am sorry"

 

[Staine]

"You can try, but I still think we must have words about it, I don't think I've ever heard such language from you, little one." It was said with a smile, Mikkel wasn't really mad, more amused than anything, he was mostly trying to put her more at ease, let her see that he really was okay.

His poor princess, she was so sweet and so hard on herself, he could read it in her face now that he could see more clearly. Tears were falling again, she blamed herself for what had happened and didn't have the knowledge to know that it really wasn't her fault. It technically wasn't his either, Mikkel had been blindsided by her change and done what he thought was best but it had not meant to be his task to prepare her for the quickening, he had not the training or the expertise to realise what needed to be done. Oh, sure, he had some knowledge of what would happen but he never had and never would go through it himself, he didn't know of the ravenous hunger and he hadn't considered her strength. Why would he? She was his princess, his Emmy, she had never been strong like that, never been a danger to him. The thought hadn't crossed his mind until it had been too late. As Cassius left the room he took another sip of the water that was being pressed to his lips, drinking deep of the glass as though he had a choice but he really didn't, not the way she was pressing it to him, it was drink or drown. When she pulled it back and offered the jerky he bit into it gratefully and only after a short while of being fed and watered like this did he speak. "Enough, Emmy, for now. Let me sit up a little..."

He was tired of being on his back. One hand at either side of him he groaned as he pulled himself a little up the bed so that he could rest against the pillows and the headboard, sitting mostly upright. "Don't be sorry, it really wasn't your fault you know. I was foolish, I underestimated the danger..." He offered her a weak smile and reached out to cup her cheek. "I only saw my darling little princess Emmeline, the same girl I have known her whole life, and she needed to eat, to feed. I didn't think on how powerful you would be, nor how hungry." He had to take breaks between his words, reaching for the glass he took it from her and took another sip, lubricating his throat and closing his eyes briefly when a wave of vertigo hit him from the movements, reminding him he had lost a lot of blood and shouldn't move so much. "And you couldn't control yourself. You weren't meant to go through this so young, you should have had time to prepare, guidance...your age alone means you just weren't prepared, people with several years on you still crave more after their first feeding and that is from a goblet, you drank from the vein. I can't imagine how hard it was for you to stop."

He paused, looking down at his right hand. He had forgotten in the panic how he had actually gotten her to stop, now that he remembered...he chuckled weakly and shook his head. "I...I'm sorry for touching you in the way that I did, princess..." His voice was low now, he didn't want Kieran or Cassius to hear and he wasn't sure how soundproofed the room was. Not entirely out of necessity, they had to be able to hear if there were anything happening in here that shouldn't be, something that not too long ago had proven it's value when he had been almost unconscious. "I couldn't think of a way to get your attention, so I just reacted, I...hit you. And your shoulder!" His eyes went wide. "I'm so sorry, I bit you...come here, let me see." He reached one hand out to her and patted his lap with the other, trying not to think about how good it had felt, both sinking his teeth into her, holding her the way he had and when his hand had come down on her rear. It wouldn't do for him to think thoughts like that, it wasn't proper for a man of his station to think such things about his princess. "Tell me how you're feeling, the quickening...do you feel different?"