Meiyuki

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

@Bright_Ops@Xathi@agentmanatee

The Musketeer's First hunt

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

_{in collaboration with @Xathi and @Bright_Ops}

"The...Many Musketeers"

Vivian made her way into Seren's Folley. She was grinning brightly, she loved this town. It was full of hunters after all, and people who sold equipment to hunters, and people who helped hunters with research. Most of all though, there was the 'Witch's Paradise'. The ironicly named establishment had become a haven for hunters of all stripes, and was home to the lovely Sophia and the gruff but kind Bobby.

Pushing open the door Vivian scanned the tavern. A little sparse today it would seem, the regulars were all here, but the hunters were a bit lacking. Had she missed a hunt!? She quickly found Bobby at his usual perch behind the bar and practically skipped over, grinning all the while.

"Another month another couple o' covens eh Bobster?" Vivian took a seat at one of the stools at the bar and began her harassment of her favorite booze provider.

It's been oneof those days.... Bobby was more grumpier than usual after all the shit that happened earlier that day, Flint almost killing Emiliano, though by accident... Emiliano, after Sophie healing him seemed to flip a lid and stab Mat in the hand. Then Emiliano went out to search for Flint, he swore the man might actually try and kill the boy. He had Banned Emiliano from the bar for his actions. Flint...well he might not let him drink for a month. Maybe help Sophie around the place doing some filth jobs. It wasn't much, but it was something...He didn't know how else to handle the punishment...though he knew Flint HATED doing the jobs.

He was sitting on the inside of the bar, drinking some ale as he tried to relax. Suddenly he heard someone quickly come over, suddenly a bright and bubbly voice spoke to him, calling him "Bobster." He didnt even need to look up to know who it was. Only one girl had ever callen him Bobster.

"Vivian..." He said looking up from his cup as he looked at her and smiled. He always had a soft spot for the female hunters that came into his bar. Especially Vivian, always a sunbeam while in this normally dark world. "Wot brings yuu back to Seren's Folley me lass?"

"Your bright and smiling face of course." Vivian flashed her signature grin. "And Sophie's cooking."

She let out a laugh. "I'm here to stock up before heading north, rumor has demon activity in that area, figured I'd map it for the brotherhood before passing the info along." Vivian sighed and rested her chin on the bar. "Where is everybody Bobster? Did I miss a hunt!?"

Bobby leaned back and folded his, twisting his back and popping his his back and releaving the pent up tention in his back. He then turned to his bar tender, telling him to bring out some food and drink for Vivian at her mention for Sophie's cooking. "I doubt it's for me smiling face lass, it's enough to break a mirrior" He chuckled "Though I can't deny about Soph's Cooking." he added with a slap to his belly. He was way out of shape from what he used to be before he met her.

"Indeed! You're a lucky man Bobby." Vivian giggled.

"Aye, yuu missed an interesting one. A necromancer in a town called Silent falls out west." He pointed to the mark board. "But ye always know we got hunts always available. I think they can handle it...I mean nine hunters went."

Vivian laughed. "They'd better!" Her face turned somber a moment. "Although you know I hear whispers. How's Fenros? He ever nail that Von'Strauss bitch?"

Bobby sighed as he leaned closer to Viv, as she knew of Fenros passed already, having worked with him closely before. "Well, speaking of Von'Strauss...She came to me trying to figure out how to kill some nasty vampires that are ancient line. I haven't Fenros yet, best to figure out how to kill these vampires and find out where exactly the witch is. Fenros would be red eye'd bull crazy if he found out she is near by. That's no good for anyone here."

Vivian's face briefly curled into a snarl before resuming its usual cheer. "Yeah, you do know best Bobster. Why she didn't try to gut you I don't know though." She giggled and started on her food - which had just arrived. "I'll stand by him when the time comes, he's pulled me out of enough fires. Besides, I want to see the bigshot witch bleed as much as any hunter worth their salt."

"Yuu'll have ta be careful though." Bobby grabbed an errant glass and began cleaning it. "She killed Hector, an' he was a better hunter than most."

"Meanwhile, what's this about nasty ancient vamps?" Vivian tilted her head inquisitively. "That I could get into."

Bobby just shook his head. "Not a good idea lassy. I 'aven't found enough on them yet. I'll let yuu know when I do though."

Vivian nodded her head. "Alrighty, I'm gonna head out and see what there is to see." She flashed him a parting grin before slamming her ale and walking out the door whistling.

Emiliano was still very pissed. Now not only did he need to find Flint, but now he needed a new place to buy his booze. He was stalking the streets angrily, asking if anyone had seen Flint or knew where he might be. He was taking a break though and sitting at a small inn outside, bemoaning his current situation.

"Is that Emiliano Parisi I see?" Vivian said in her signature lilting cheer. "You're still kicking around? Why didn't I see you at the bar?"

Emiliano snapped his head up when he heard Vivian and smiled, "Your damn right I'm still around, I'm surprised your still kicking!", he laughed as he stood and walked over to her, "Been awhile eh? As for the bar well... banned for a month. Long story.", he grimaced at the thought of it before continuing. "What's brought you here?"

"Banned from the bar!?" Vivian was shocked. "How'd you manage that? Never mind the 'Long story shit' I gotta get details!"

Emiliano rolled his eyes, "Well after an incident involving one Flint Diggard that nearly got me killed I was rather pissed. Some hunter I have not met insulted me about it, I drove my bayonet through his hand and called him a prat... I guess it isn't that long eh?", he chuckled in spite of his situation, "So, now I'm looking for Flint to kick his ass, and a new place to drink for a month.", he shrugged.

In just about any other town on the face of the planet if a man wearing a mask over his face with a weapon that could only described as a fusion of a saw and a meat cleaver resting on his shoulder openly there would have been quite a stir... in Seren's Folley it seemed to be par for the course.

Maybe that was the reason Draco had decided to come here in the first place; To blend in and feel like he belonged rather then stand out like a sore thumb. Glancing out from under his hat at what appeared to be another pair of hunters sitting in front of one of the town's various inn's, he paused only a moment before asking in a tone muffled by his facemask "Excuse me, but which inn would you recommend staying the night in?"

Vivian turned and had to crane her neck to look up at the towering man. "Well, aren't you just huge!" She grinned. "As for the inn? Well I guess that depends on whether you're looking for peace and quiet, or company and easily flowing ale. Right Emiliano? I'm Vivian by the way."

Emiliano similarly looked up at the large hunter and raised an eyebrow, "Well... I'd say Bobbies lace if your a hunter who does not mind some excitement _{or a couple of asshole brothers}", he said the last part under his breath thinking about the Digards. Regardless he shrugged, "Course they are all nice enough frined... whats you neame? Oh and as I'm sure you've guessed from Vivian saying it I'm Emiliano Parisi."

If Draco had any feelings on the fact that his height was being drawn attention to, he didn't seem to show it. Vivian and Emiliano seemed pleasant enough... through he couldn't help but notice that the 'Parisi' seemed to be slurring his words a bit. "My name is Draco and it is a pleasure to meet the both of you... through I would prefer somewhere quiet and peaceful. I do go to such establisments in order to get some sleep after all." It was a poor attempt at humor, but the effort was at least made.

Vivian grinned nodding. "Sure, I getcha Drake." She assigned the man a pet name immediately. "So you'd be wanting the inn right behind us then. Also the townsfolk put up wandering hunters from time to time. What brings you into town anyway? Or you for that matter Emil?" She turned to her companion her head tilted in question.

Emiliano shrugged, "Then yea, this inn should do ya good.", he turned to Vivian and chuckled, "Rumours of a rather large Witch coven and other happening around this town. Nothing special. What about you? Similar reasons, or are you just stalking me?", he chuckled.

The nickname of Drake didn't seem to bother Draco all that much; He had been called far, far worse things before. "Honestly I just heard that there were a lot of hunters gathering here. Didn't exactly hear anything solid about what was being hunted but I've found that there are very few things that can just shrug off a strike from this beauty." A gloved hand went up to softly pat the side of the blade that was resting on his shoulder, a small dark chuckle escaping him. "I will admit that witches are a new one through. Never really bothered going after them before."

Vivian admired the blade. "That marks you as a Russ right? Much more pleasant that your father is rumored to be so far!" She flashed draco a bright grin. "If you're looking for large game then you ought to stick around."

She turned to Emiliano with a somber expression. "One word, that no one's to repeat. Von'Strauss, I've heard whispers. When I get more I'll be riding out from here, with anyone I can get."

Emiliano cocked an eyebrow at Vivian, "Von'Strauss? As in the one who killed Hector Digard? Here? Well... if she is in charge of that coven...", he audibly gulped thinking about it, "We uh... may need more hnters then... ", he looked quizically at Draco, "No Witches really? Strange... people tend to pay more for witches you know. Tougher to kill more often than not."

The mention of his father seemed to make Draco seize up for a moment... before he relaxed once again as if nothing had happened. "I believe I might."

The mention of the name Von'Strauss didn't get the fearful responce that it seemed to deserve from Draco, who instead tilted his head somewhat in confusion. "Never heard of such a family before." He admitted somewhat carelessly. Turning to look at Emiliano at the mention of a higher paycheck for witches, Draco shook his head. "Honestly it just never happened. There is always a big, nasty piece of work of a monster running around somewhere and someone has to go and deal with it while some hunters laze around for their next big payday."

Vivian stared at Draco somewhat blankly. "Have you heard of... I don't know the Black Death that was running about not two decades ago." She continued grimly. "That was ONE pissed Von'Strauss whore, fortunately Hector Digard and company wiped them out years back. Or so we'd hoped, apparently one of the bitches made it out."

Emiliano shrugged at Draco's comment about lazy hunters, "I take whatver work comes to me, beast or witch. I have just found that when I kill a witch I tend to get payed more you know? Maybe you should a hunt a witch or two, get some experience fighting them.", he smiled before nodding in agreement with Vivian, "Oh yea, the Von'Strauss clan were some truly evil eitchrd till Hector got rid of thrm... all but one apparently, And that one was pissed, I heard she hunted him down for many years, seeking her vengeance... crazy woman.", he shook his head despairingly.

The idea that one person (Even if they were a talented magic user) had been accountable to the plague that swept through many of the towns and cities that he had visited at one time or another was absurd. Rolling his shoulders a little, Draco merely muttered "Oh please. The Black Death was not some spell that was summoned by an idiot who didn't understand that an illness that kills humans might backfire on her as well. If anything I suspect that it was something that afflected animals that somehow managed to start infecting humans. A werewolf most likely... the worst of both worlds."

"I hope you're right... but I suspect you're not." Vivian grinned.

"And of course she would be pissed. Wouldn't you want vengence on anyone that slaughtered your family?" It was a simple statement, but it had to be said.

"That I can get, but burned villages? Slaughtered towns? There are some lines only evil will cross, and she's crossed 'em." Vivian said solemnly, before breaking back into her usual grin. "Either way, it'll be a hell of a hunt if you want in? I could use some hunting buddies again in the meantime. The woods and crypts get lonely after all."

Draco had to bite his tongue in order to prevent himself from saying something that would not doubt alienate himself from the fellow hunters; He didn't know how Vivian would take a challenge to her view of the world and sometimes you just had to let things go if you wanted to have someone to talk with at the end of the day.

"But of course. I have never been against having company while on a hunt... If nothing else if normally gave the beast something else to chew on for a change." Draco offered with a dark little chuckle.

Emiliano listened to the two discuss, preferring not to chime in as he really didn't care what caused the black plauge or anything. All he knew was that Von-Strauss killed Hector Digard, and that was enough reason for her to be destroyed. "Well Viv, you can count me in for that hunt as wll. Without Bobby's place I've nothing better to do and I need the coin anyways. Besides, it'll be nice to recconnect after our timee apart no?", really he also needed something to get his mind of his recent slew of personal issues... of course, Vivian didn't need to know that... didn't want her turning against him too.

"Excellent! It's decided then! We're the three musketeers! Taking on more!" Vivian performed a quick spin and struck a riduculous pose. Breaking into a laugh she patted her companions on their respective shoulders. "I say we meet here tomorrow morning. I'll grab something nasty from the hunter's board and we'll get our steel wet? How's that sound?"

"Like it was just another friday." Draco admitted with something of a deadpan tone to his voice. For some reason he could already tell that Vivian was just one of those people who pushes everyone else around them to try and be overly happy and excited about everything...even when they didn't want to. "Maybe something that isn't to far out of the way... A short and sweet hunt to get to know the local area a little before we plunge into the depths of madness and death sounds like a nice change of pace from the norm."

Vivian nodded. "Sure, we can play it that way if you like." She scratched the back of her head sheepishly. "Wiser probably, I get excited easily, my bad. Get to know each other's capabilities too that way, the inferno and the like will have to wait eh?"

A slender and poised woman stepped into Hunter's Rest, making a careful note to softly close the door, and took long sophisticated strides to a close bystander, and politely asked, "Do you perhaps know where I may find...eh...hunters?" "Well there's a couple outside, out in front. You could talk to them, not to me. I'm busy, go away.", the bystander rudely proclaimed. "Thank you very much, sir!", she said with a dutiful smile as she nodded her head in a slight bow and stepped towards where she entered.

The woman stepped out of the door, seeing the man and woman she had spotted on her way in, and she stepped up into their view. "Excuse me, tall cloaked man and astute pretty maiden..could you two perhaps happen to be Hunters?"

Draco turned to look at the woman that had politely asked if both himself and Vivian were hunters... at least, he was assuming that she was asking them; She was looking right at them after all even if 'Tall Cloaked Man' could be used to describe half the people in town. Clicking his tongue for a moment as he made a show off looking at his saw-cleaver, he managed to a rather comedic tone of mock surprise "By gods! When did I pick this up? Well, it has been a rather long journey to get here so I might turn in for some rest. It was a pleasure meeting you Miss Vivian."

Deciding to drop the mock surprise in his voice, Draco turned to look at the woman who had approched them properly. "Forgive me but I was just about to retire for a time. Maybe we will have the chance to speak again some other time soon through?" Once she had answered his question, he would offer her a small bow and go to properly sign in for a room at the inn.

Things were only going to get more interesting from now on... he could feel it in his bones.

She stared at the man when he expressed surprise at his weapon. It was obviously his, as the aesthetic of the blade matched his own. Then why was he surprised at the presence of said weapon? It was truly perplexing...perhaps he had an ailment of memory loss? She took this into mind as the man continued addressing her.

When he had asked if they would be formally introduced at a later time, she nodded and said, "Of course, sir! " She hoped he did not forget to reunite with her again as she waved him off, and he was gone. She then turned her attention to the lady, and smiled once more.

Vivian beamed at the woman. "I'm a hunter, sure. Name's Vivian." She extended a hand while laughing. "I've been called pretty before, but astute? That's a new one, crazy is the more often used descriptor of my mental faculties."

"Oh um...yes..I suppose so..um.." Was this woman she assumed to be quite learned and sophisticated actually morose and insane? She proclaimed so...mabye it was simply a claim to intimidate her opponents! Yes, that made sense. Perhaps the woman was attempting to intimidate her! Of course! She must have been extremely wise to have immediately picked up on the fact that she wished to be a hunter. So, of course, she would oblige and show her strength! She took the woman's hand firmly, and shook in an extremely powerful grip, while she smiled.

Vivian tried to hide her grimace as the woman nearly crushed her hand. What a grip! She was starting to get the idea that this woman wasn't normal in one way or another. "So, whatcha lookin' for hunters for?" Once the handshake was over she quickly moved her poor limb behind her back. "And I never caught your name!"

The woman was internally ecstatic, as the hunter's request of her name was a possible indicator that her aggressive demeanor had successfully wooed her! She performed a heavy ended bow, and proclaimed, "My name is Bermuda Fenteri Umbrah Tisti Kalizco, Red Interian Knight, of the Kalizco name, and the Yoola Province." After the introduction she stood back up and looked at the woman once more. "But you, if you so please, may call me Berk.', she said with a hearty grin.

Vivian immediately knew the woman was strange, in the extreme. Not that she minded, she was grinning after all. Beaming back Vivian patted Berk's shoulder. "Well met Berk! You're a Knight huh!?" She giggled "What brings a Knight to Seren's Folley?"

"Well, I was ex-...I mean I left my kingdom in search of adventure and righteousness!" Surely the Hunter assembly wouldn't tolerate outcasts and exiles into their ranks! Berk made a quick decision to...stretch her tale a bit, and make it a tad more appealing. "I believe the Hunters make it possible to find such throes of heroism?"

"Indeed! We have all sorts of throes, death throes, heroism, yadda yadda." Vivian beamed happily. "I'm planning something for tomorrow if you'd like to accompany me and mine! In the meantime you should meet Bobby!" She gestured to the tavern across the street and began walking

Berk could not believe what had just happened.

Was it...that simple? A simple introduction, conversation, and handshake was all that she required to join the ranks of the Hunters!? She could not help but feel...enthusiastically disappointed. Yes, she was now, assuming the woman's offer was that of a hunt, into the Hunters, however all the practice in speech and etiquette...was all for nothing? She was lost in perplexity for a moment as she pondered the lady's departing words. Bobby...tavern...across the street. She turned her head in the direction of said tavern and stepped towards it. Time to meet a new face.

She stepped into the tavern, glancing around the room for anyone fitting the description of "Bobby". She could find no said man (or woman, who was she to judge with the name "Berk") resided in the bar. She decided to just let the opportunity present itself, and she sat down next to a middle aged man at the bar.

Bobby glanced up at the new girl who entered his bar. Yet another he hasn't met. Bobby knew most of the hunters in the area, even some a long far away. He Stood up from his seat and hobbled over, wincing at the pain his leg was causing him today. He stopped at the bar just in front of her. "Ello there lassy, Welcome to me tavern. Witches Paradise, where you can get all you need for yer huntin needs. Wot can I do for yuu?"

"Oh, well I suppose I will take a hard brandy on the rocks, if I may ask. I have sufficient funds, of course!" She placed a strange, foreign coin on the countertop and gleamed a smile. "And I was searching for an individual by the name of Bobby, if you so happened to be aware of their whereabouts, sir!"

Vivian grinned and took a seat next to her newfound companion. "There he is! The Bobster himself in the flesh, he's killed more nasties than I've met people. If you're looking for tips or lore, he's your guy." She beamed up at Bobby. "Don't piss 'im off though, or you'll find yourself with nothing to drink and dreprived of his lovely wife's cooking."

Bobby raised his eyebrows at the drink of choice. Normally not a womans style from what he knew of. But everyone had their tastes. She had placed a strange coin on the counter and his took it, felt it's weight and bit it, testing how soft it was. The quallity was far supirior to what this kingdoms normal currency was. And by the weight of it, it was worth alot more than just a drink...per haps a few days for a room. He listened to when she asked where 'he' was.

Before he could answer though, Vivian snuck in and plopped right next to her, introducing him as Bobster. He sighed and shook his head. Before looking to the new woman. Grunting at her intro he then said, "Aye I'm Bobby. This here coin is worth more than a drink lassy. Yuu want the change or do you want food and board for a few nights as well?"

After she answered he would then asked, "Why yuu looking for me then?"

"Oh, yes! I was actually quite confused on where to find proper bedding and rest for the night, as I am quite new here. I thank you for your generosity, Sir...erm...Bobby!" In her mind, she was terrified that she had rubbed the wrong way on the man. First, with the misrepresentation and false recognition, and as well with her strange choice of alcohol. Berk was extremely anxious at this point.

Once Bobby's second question was proclaimed, she looked over at Vivian and smiled. "Well this woman right here kindly recommended I seek your presence, as to a possible escapade of sorts?"

Vivian beamed. "We're buddies now, so I thought I'd introduce her to the finest hunter to mount a head." She laughed. "And a more honest barkeep that most I'd say!"

"Caught up with Emil, and met a pair of new hunters today Bobster." Vivian looked over the hunter's board. "So I thought to myself 'self, why don't we drag them along on a hunt?' I didn't find an adequate excuse not to so we're riding out tomorrow morning or the next to get some work done. With black things on the wind it might be wise to partner up and whatnot right Bobby?" She flashed him a bright grin.

Bobby Smiled. "Just Bobby lass..." He looked to Vivian. His smile vanished."Just bobby." Though he ever doubted that she would never stop calling him Bobster. When she answered his second question he said, "Oh?" Just as Vivian started to speak. Glancing over to her. At the mention of Emiliano his face darkened. Damn fool...

But he nodded, "Fer wot's been going on the last few days, Demon Lord werewolves, and Necromancers..." Unkillable vampires he thought to himself. "Best everyone find a partner." He looked back to the new woman, who held her self so proper. "Ye must be knight I'm guessing? With all your politeness oozing out. It's hard to miss. Second woman knight I've met today...wot a weird thing. May I ask yer name lass?"

"Oh, yes of course!", she said as she bowed once again. "My name is Bermuda Fenteri Umbrah Tisti Kalizco, Red Interian Knight, of the Kalizco name, and the Yoola Province.", she said with the same proper attitude and demeanor as her first introduction. After she eased up, she leaned against the bar and smiled at Bobby. "But you may call me Berk."

"And yes, I am indeed a knight. Although I am not currently a resident of my kingdom, and my official knighthood has been stunted for a stretch." She grimaced a bit and waited for her drink.

"Stunted? How do you stunt a knighthood? Is it tabacco and alchohol like my mom used to say?" Vivian tilted her head quizzically, still grinning. "Well whatever the case, being a normal plebian hunter is fun anyway!"

The bartender came by with the drink and placed it infront of her while Bobby watched her as she rattled off a long name and title, from a land he only heard of. He blinked a few times, wondering if he must call her by her full name, but she added just Berk...Berk he could handle! Vivian asked about her stunted Knighthood. He knew what she might of meant but didn't say anything. "Well we could always use some veteran fighters." He looked to Vivian, "Wot ye going after then with Berk...and Emiliano..." He hesitated for a moment, not watnig to even mention the name and it just came out.

"Oh, simply an...altercation. It wasn't much, really.", she said, an obvious uncomfortable tone to her voice. It was apparent she'd rather keep her reasoning to herself, and leave the cause to wonder.

She peered over at Vivian once Bobby had asked his question. She as well was intrigued by the...festivities that would be taking place later on.

With eyes suddenly on her she colored lightly before leaning over and squinting at the Hunter's board. "Hmmm... Lemme see...." Her grin intensified - somehow - as she evidently found something that pleased her. "Sweet! Look at that!"

Standing she rushed over and pulled down a scrap of paper. "Looks like someone's got a werewolf problem up north near a cemetary! Draco was saying he kinda specialized in wolves, and me'thinks the undead problem could be witchly in origin!" Her eyes practically sparkled as she looked towards Berk. "Whadduya think?"

Berk was ecstatic at the news that Vivian was interested in allowing her to accompany them on the hunt, and could barely contain her excitement as she gleefully exclaimed, "Yes, absolutely yes! I would love nothing more than to join Hunters on an expedition!!" She raised from her seat and could do nothing more than slam her drink down uneventfully and skip out the door.

Wolves of Red Lake (Closed ignore this thread)

_{in collaboration with @Anima}

Kimberly Thatcher & Alyssa Paige

Kimberly Thatcher

Alyssa Paige
Interacting with: Alyssa @Meiyuki

---

Alyssa watched Riley's back as she exited the RV. Once she'd slipped outside Alyssa started rubbing her temples. "God... that was rough."

Watching Riley go, Kimberly let out a sigh and leaned against Alyssa. The talk went better than she expected, but she felt ... like a jerk. It still ate at her that she didn't trust Riley with her little secret. Riley of all people! What she told Riley about herself, however, wasn't easy either. Though Alyssa was a special case, it took Morgan forever - with some damn fine guessing - to learn her little secret.

"At least she knows now rather than later," Kimberly said. "We ... I should've told her sooner..."

Alyssa shrugged before tossing an arm around Kimberly's shoulders. "You did the best you could hon, I'm sure she knows that. It's not like this was easy for you." She yawned. "All this worrying and swimming is tiring."

Comforted from Alyssa's touch, Kimberly reached up and stroked Alyssa's hand as she stared at the RV's window. "You don't think this'll ruin our trio, do you? She was really chill about it, but ... I'm worrying," she said. She smirked at Alyssa's yawn. "Too much excitement?"

"By far I think... I'd rather run windsprints all day." Alyssa stretched out her legs and leaned on Kimberly. "I don't think we've got anything to worry about, Riley'll be fine, we're fine. It might be rough for a bit, but everything will settle back just fine."

Though not entirely convinced, only time would reveal whether or not Riley was truly fine or not. Pulling Alyssa's hand towards her lips, she kissed it. "It's not everyday you get to comfort me. It's kinda nice. The role switching," she said. "So ... we still got time before night. What do you wanna do?"

"Hmm..." Alyssa wriggled her eyebrows suggestively at Kimberly before laughing. "I've got a couple of ideas you'd slap me for... besides that? I guess I just wanna get tucked in and chat for a while before passing out." She stood with a small groan. "And I enjoyed it too. Being on the other side was nice for a change, you might have to get used to it."

Kimberly laughed. She playfully slapped Alyssa's arm. "Does said ideas have any connections to Em's little ships? But if you're too tired, we can talk about that later" she asked as she winked. "I could get used to that Lyssa ... I really could."

Pursing her lips, Kimberly poked Alyssa on the forehead. "If I hadn't come in to talk to you, you wouldn't have done something stupid, right?"

Pulling Kimberly into a hug Alyssa giggled. "Of course not, although sometimes it does seem like my life is just a long string of stupidity." She sighed and buried her face in Kimberly's hair. "I'll get my feet under me soon, it's been a hell of a couple days for my poor heart, the best ones though."

Melting into Alyssa's hug, Kimberly sighed contently. "Some stupidity's good. Some though. Otherwise thing'll get boring," she said. Feeling Alyssa nuzzle her hair, Kimberly chuckled. "Look at you being all adorable! You let me know how I can help that poor heart of yours, dear."

Pulling back enough to plant a kiss on Kimberly's cheek Alyssa winked. "And I'm not nearly that tired."

Feeling Alyssa's lips grace her cheek, Kimberly rose an eyebrow. "A little risque gets the gears churning, hm? Good to know." Kimberly leaned over and kissed Alyssa on the lips. "Now that's better... We, um, should probably get back out there."

Alyssa smiled brightly as the sweet and soft sensation of Kimberly's lips filled her head. "Mmm...I suppose we probably should...but you know my vote." She winked and gave Kimberly one last squeeze before releasing the hug. "My sister would explode if she knew any of this."

Laughing she turned towards the door. "Bit late for swimming don't you think? The tent? Or the campfire? Your call hon."

Joining in on the laugh, Kimberly was pretty sure she knew how Em would react. She'd probably ship the two harder in her little works of fiction. Not that Kimberly would mind. Though it was a touch weird to think about. Just a touch though.

Getting to her feet, Kimberly pointed at her swim suit. "Camp fire. First, I'm going to get changed. I'm not sitting near naked around the fire," she said. "Not really the attention I want ... We better make smores. A camp fire without smores ... Madness!"

Alyssa nodded and dug through the bag she'd left in the RV for a - you guessed it - pair of yoga pants and a tank top. Sliding them on over her swimsuit was a simple enough task, and once she'd finished she turned towards Kimberly. "Maybe they'll have the stereo running, I'm in a dancing mood at the moment."

Kimberly's eyes gazed over Alyssa's body as she got dressed. Why didn't she leave her stupid bag in the RV? Well, she wasn't figuring she'd be drying off and having that conversation in here for one. Two? Well, there wasn't a second reason.

Even when Alyssa turned to face her, Kimberly wasn't modest about her staring. She returned above sea level soon enough.

"See something you like?" Alyssa blushed for what felt like the thousandth time in the last couple days. Its not like she minded Kimberly's gaze, but it was something she'd have to get used to.

Smirking at Alyssa's blush, Kimberly winked. "A lot of it," she said. "I'm going to get my clothes. I can meet you there...?"

"I can walk you over if you want. I thought I heard a wolf earlier, might not be a bad idea to not split up."

Arching an eyebrow, whatever flirty fairy was flying around in her brain was replaced with worry. "A wolf? Well, that isn't too weird out here," Kimberly said. Getting to her feet, Kimberly wrapped an arm around Alyssa. "Safety in number?"

---

_Nightfall

Alyssa's phone light lit the darkened path back to their tent. It had been a long, and wonderful day. The water was warm, the sunset beautiful, and the smiling faces of her the friends and aquaintences she'd made over the years were bright and unimpeded. Tomorrow would bring more of the same, and draw their annual celebration to an end.

At the moment however she had other things on her mind. Alyssa had spent countless days and hours alone with Kimberly over their several year friendship, but now that they were dating she seemed hyperaware of her movement and expressions. Alyssa didn't expect anything to happen tonight, but her heart was thudding against her chest nonetheless.

"Welcome to my humble abode." Alyssa giggled briefly, diffusing the small tension in her chest.

Surprised how quickly the sun set, Kimberly followed Alyssa back to their tent. If were any other time in the past, she wouldn't have paid a second thought to sharing a tent with Alyssa. From their years of friendship, Kimberly slept over at Alyssa's place and vice versa. In hindsight, they were really freaking close. But now that closeness had a different feeling. A different dynamic.

Smirking at the comment, Kimberly stepped into the tent. "Tis' a comfy abode," she said. Going straight for her bag, Kimberly pulled out another one of her fabulous over-sized shirts and slipped it on. A cartoon kitty was centered right on the middle.

Alyssa smirked and poked the kitty's nose. "Adorable."

Pulling a hair binder out from a side pocket, Kimberly tied her hair up into a ponytail. She looked over at Alyssa and model posed for her. "Rawr."

Alyssa fell into a faux swoon onto her bedroll. "The beauty... it's blinding." Giggling she sat back up. "You look excellent as always."

Kimberly blew a kiss towards her lovely dove. "This is only for you, Lyssa. Everyone gets a wink."

Catching the kiss and planting in on her cheek Alyssa smiled as she pulled the oversized flannel button up she intended to use for sleepwear that night over her swimwear - which had mostly dried by now - as she let her hair down. Rubbing her cheek on her sleeve she grinned. "I love flannel... why can't I just wear it all the time?"

Kimberly laughed when Alyssa wiped at her cheek. Kneeling at Alyssa's side, Kimberly poked Alyssa's face. "You're more cat-like than my shirt you big dummy."

Alyssa laughed. "Am not! Cats are cute, and rarely seem bothered by stuff." She poked Kimberly back. "If anyone here's cat-like it's you!"

Growling, Kimberly pounced and pushed Alyssa down on the bed roll. "You're cute though," Kimberly said. Her smirk grew wider. "Try getting out of this one miss fighter."

Alyssa's cheeks colored slightly. "Alright, let me show you my most secret technique." Grinning her hands went to Kimberly's hips, where she began tickling relentlessly. "How's that huh?"

Kimberly flinched as she jumped and screamed at the same time. "You little gremlin!" she said before holding up your hands. "What comes around goes around, dear."

Going in for the kill, Kimberly fell back onto Alyssa as she poked and prodded relentlessly.

Alyssa tried - and failed - to hold in a cascade of giggles. Squriming underneath Kimberly she lifted her hips, along with her girlfriend, into the air and rolled over. Suddenly on top Alyssa pinned Kimberly's wrists gently against the fabric of the bedding. Leaning forward she grinned devilishly before blowing a rasberry on Kimberly's neck. "Ready to give up yet? I've got more where that came from cutie."

Feeling the table's turn, Kimberly shivered. Though Alyssa had her 'pinned', her girlfriend was gentle about it. It was funny yet sweet. Well, she had context to miss Paige.

Leaning forward, Kimberly pecked Alyssa's lips. She winked. "Not at all ... What else you have...?"

Alyssa was suddenly extremely aware of their positions. Her face turned pink as her heart thudded against her chest in what seemed to be an escape attempt. "You'll find I have quite the imagination Kimmy." She lowered her head for another kiss, lingering this time she allowed herself to savor Kimberly's soft lips as much as she'd like.

Moaning as she returned the kiss, a warm pressure filled Kimberly's chest. She unclenched her fists as her legs rubbed together. This was something that was definitely missing when she dated that dude from way back then.

Pulling away, her whole entire body burned. It wasn't from the heat.

"Done this before, Lyssa?" Kimberly asked.

Alyssa giggled and planted a peck on Kimberly's forehead. "Nope! I'm a quick study though!"

A smirk spread across her lips. "So this imagination of yours ... care to share?"

Alyssa's blush deepened. "D-do you want me to tell you...?" She shyly looked away and lowered her voice. "Or s-show you?"

She was straying into unfamiliar territory. Biting her lips, Kimberly looked at Alyssa's lips then back up at her eyes. Kimberly wanted to keep pushing and see what would happen, but she didn't. Would Alyssa think less of her if she didn't? What a stupid thought. Alyssa had been nothing but patient with her. At the same time, Kimberly didn't want to be slow. Lots of her friends got dumped cause they were slow. But this was different. Right?

Losing her speaking confidence, Kimberly shied away from Alyssa's gaze. "I-is it something out of Em's little ships?" she asked trying to alleviate the intimacy.

Sensing Kimberly's hesitation Alyssa worked to calm herself. She'd already decided that she'd 'go all the way' at the earliest opportunity, but Kimberly had said she wanted to go slow. As much as her body might protest that Alyssa certainly respected the sentiment. She dismounted Kimberly and laid next to her, tucking her head into her girlfriend's shoulder.

"Em's not the only one with an... active imagination." Alyssa giggled as she traced circles on Kimberly's stomach. "I've got my own ideas I'd like to try with you... whenever you're ready."

Wrapping an arm around the cuddled Alyssa, the pressure slowly faded albeit reluctantly. Kimberly hoped to God she didn't just ruin something good. She just wasn't ready. Her and her damn teasing.

"... You're not angry with me right? Not wanting to, you know ... yet?"

Alyssa shook her head laughing. "Of course not hon. We'll take it at your pace ok?" She playfully poked Kimberly's nose. "Just let me know, and I'll share my creative talent whenever."

Kimberly rolled on her side and kissed Alyssa's forehead. "Thanks, dear," she said. "But ... really. What would you do? I'm curious..."

Alyssa's face turned pink. "Well... I'd want to touch... and taste... and stuff." Her face had turned beet red by the end of the short and halting sentance. Burying her face in Kimberly's shoulder she groaned. "You get the idea don't you? Are you really going to make me describe it in detail?"

Her eyes widened as Kimberly tried to stiffle her torrent of giggles building. Feeling Alyssa burrow deeper into her, she traced her fingers against her sides. "You know I have a terrible imagination, dove. So .... maybe a word teaser, hmmm?"

Alyssa returned her gaze to Kimberly's face. Her eyes narrowed in mock anger. "Ok, word teaser then?" She thought a moment. "Vagina, clitoris, nipples, tongue. And that's just for starters, can you think of how you could put those together love?"

Kimberly couldn't contain herself any longer. The giggles rocked her body as she tried to breathe. She wiped the tears from her eyes. "Sorry dear! Those are just ... parts to me," she said. She kissed Alyssa's forehead again. "Help me put them together?"

Alyssa was starting to get the idea that Kimberly's ignorance might be born of some nefarious end, rather than actualy ignorance. "Kimmy. You... really!?" She groaned again. "Fine, alright. So, you take the... first parts, and you... uh... touch them with the... last... bit." Alyssa's face was on fire, she pulled her flannel over shit over her head.

"If you need more than that you have the internet!" She exclaimed from her hiding place.

The giggle train roared yet again as Kimberly's body rocked hard. When they tapered off, she settled back on the bedroll. Seeing the flannel over Alyssa's head, Kimberly wrapped herself around the flannel bear and stayed there.

"I couldn't resist. Sorry dear," she said. "But, um, some of that was informative. What do you wanna do, Lyssa? Wanna go out to the fire or ... stay here and chat?"

Alyssa's heart warmed as she was embraced in the darkness of her 'hiding place'. Poking her head out tenitavely. "Well... let's see, if we go to the fire you can't tease me... as much anyway." She tilted her head. "On the other hand, I'd have to talk to people wouldn't I?"

Kimberly nodded sagely before kissing Alyssa's cheek. "Benefits and cons to both, dear."

Sighing she leaned back into Kimberly. "Up to you. You've successfully fried my brain, my decision making abilities have fled me."

Kimberly chuckled. "Only takes that much, hmm?" Look at the tent entrance, she shrugged. "The others might get nosy, if we just disappear. We don't have to go yet, but we should soon-ish?"

"Only that much!?" Alyssa laughed. "Ok then missy, why don't you get your phone out and read one of Em's fics aloud?"

Looking at Alyssa, Kimberly traced her hands against her cheek. "Or the torment can commence yet again?"

Grinning Alyssa tilted her head. "Now I'm kinda curious how you could do anything worse than you've already managed.... Choices choices."

Kimberly rose an eyebrow. "Touche missy..."

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

I see the hunter collab has borne fruit! So much to read! <3

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

@Shagranoz@Aerandir@Ellion

Ok, so it's a tortue dungeon

Weekend over! I'm ready to get back to work.

Amongst the Lonesome- A return to Santa Somabra [Fantasy Noir]

_{in collaboration with @Kingfisher}

---

"Where are we going Shaun?" Lorelai's head rested against the window of her car. The people and sights of Santa Somabra flashed by. Each sight seemed spotlighted by the street lamps, standing resplendant in its gritty glory against the grey concrete of this man-made jungle of flesh and sin.

"To meet Madame Bloodbloom, as I said Mi'lady." Lorelai was excited. Her smile of late had seemed almost carved into her dead flesh, as if nothing could remove it. She'd collected her blade, and her finest thralls for this meeting. Clad in a blood red dress complete with black frills and hints of lace she was looking to make a good first impression. Shaun had said something about the juxtaposition of her appearance and her predatory gaze being 'striking', and had helped her pick the ensemble.

The car came to a halt in front of a large building. It stretched into the sky as a behemoth of glass and steel. Ensconced inside the towering ediface was her new would-be liege. Lorelai paused on the steet while Shaun fixed her bow and smoothed her dress and hair. "You are truly terrible to behold Mi'lady, are you ready?"

Lorelai stepped towards the pair of gatemen outside the building. "Lorelai Von'Strauss, here for a meeting."

"Weapons check." The men gave her a thorough but respectful pat down before ensuring her thralls were unarmed. "We'll hold on to these, and return them to you on the way out." They'd taken up a small collection of auto-pistols and combat knives.

"In the interest of transparency I'll have you keep this as well." Lorelai handed one of the men the long attache containing her sword. He nearly dropped it due to the surprising weight of the thing. Lorelai's blade was composed of an imminently dense adamantine alloy fully capable of splitting most modern metals with ease.

"Have a seat in the lobby, someone will collect you when the boss is ready to meet with you." They gestured into the building.

Lorelai was a little disappointed that she'd have to wait, but took her seat in the lavish lobby anyway. She paged through various magazines while she waited. "Ma'am, please relax. It'll be here soon enough." Shaun's brow was wrinkled with worry as she looked up.

"I'm quite alright Shaun. this isn't anger dear, it's anticipation."

Some time later, a trim Faerie with slicked back reddish brown hair came striding into the lobby, all done up in bright black shoes and a hand-tailored suit.

"Miss Von'Strauss?" The man regarded Lorelai with a sharp smile "Mister Vladimir called ahead. Miss Bloodbloom is ready to see you now."

The Faerie gestures behind him with one delicate, almost feminine hand.

"My employer is in the steam room. We can provided a change of clothes if you and your companion don't have a bathing suit handy."

"Clever!"" Lorelai stood, grinning ear to ear. "Yet another layer of protection, see Shaun? Much wiser than...whatever his name was."

"Indeed Mi'lady." Shaun said simply as he turned to the Faerie. "We'll have to avail ourselves of your offer then, thank you."

The two stepped into the small locker room that the attendant showed them. Sure enough two simple bathing suits awaited, a one-piece for Lorelai, and a set of swimming shorts for Shaun. They quickly changed into the articles before allowing themselves to be led to the steam room.

"Ma'am, if you'd allow me to announce you when we see her." Shaun pushed the door to the steam room open. "Madam Bloodbloom, I'm pleased to present Lady Lorelai Von'Strauss." Shaun offered a small bow as his mistress entered behind him.

Nyxie was spread out across the humid stone backbench which ran across one side of the room; her gigantic form squeezed into a designer two-piece that was just about managing to hold everything in.

"Miss Von'Strauss." The Faerie smiled warmly by way of greeting, tilting her head in an act of casual inclination.

"Please," she gave a slight wave of one hand "have a seat."

The steam room itself resembled a small cave of smooth blue stone, with multi-coloured lights bouncing off of the walls and breaking through the thick veil of cloud-like vapour which wafted over the room. The temperature of the room was tailored exactly to the Faerie's personal preferences, whilst also taking into consideration Vampire's inherent vulnerability to heat.

"Now," Nyxvira clasped her fat hands together, giving her knuckles a sharp crack "what is it that I can do for the pair of you?"

Lorelai offered a small bow before taking a seat on one of the benches. She hated steam rooms, but at least the rotund Faerie had been considerate enough to keep the heat low enough to only be annoying as opposed to insufferable.

"This is about what I'd like to do for you." Lorelai spoke cheerily. "You see I'm a bit into my old age now, and have found my unlife growing tedious."

Lorelai's laugh echoed off the walls of the room. "I've decided that my life has become to comfortable, and was hoping you might serve to remedy that." She made a broad gesture with one arm. "I'm here to offer my service, and promise to see you at the top of this city on a throne of the broken bodies of your enemies. For the right price of course."

Nyxvira considered this for a moment, her theatrical smile never losing its warmth.

She knew Lorelai's type. Women like her weren't interested in financial gain. What she craved was excitement; the kind that only the queen of Santa Somabra could offer her. Why else would the childe of Vladimir be on her doorstep? There was a reason she'd refrained from shackling herself to the Nyctari, after all.

"You've not been in the city long." The Faerie stated bluntly. This was not a question.

"I'll assume you're not versed in some of the cities more...clandestine passtimes. The snuff industry, for example, is something which Concetto Nyctari gets a HUGE chunk of his business from." Nyxie spread her arms apart for emphasis.

"He employs people with all sorts of interesting connections to scour the streets for him, and find the freshest meat possible to use in his little home movies. His most recent 'talent scout' was a man named Jamie, who seems to have gone missing all of a sudden."

The Faerie cocked her head ever-so-slightly, shooting Lorelai a sly wink.

"With him out of the picture, Concetto will be looking for a new recruiter. My people inside the Nyctari can whisper in all the right ears, and get something solid set up. What I need is someone who can get inside Concetto's operation, and find out how everything works, so that we can start tearing it all apart."

She shifted her bulk about, sending ripples through her gigantic form.

"There's an abandoned casino the Nyctari use for filming and the like. If you can play that part I need of you and start feeding me information, then I'll reward you with more excitement than you can handle. It'll be very James Bond."

Once she'd finished, Nyxie pressed her thumb against a button in the side of the wall; turning to speak into the well-disguised intercom.

"Have Engstrom make me a rack of spare ribs with Hoisin sauce...and a couple portions of chips."

She turned back to the pair who sat across from her.

"Can I get you guys anything?"

"An elven red if you have it, otherwise we're fine thank you." Lorelai was excited at the prospect of infiltraton. Shaun meanwhile began fanning his mistress. "So you'd like me to play the part of this recruiter then? Finding people to die for my own enjoyment has never been a problem, I don't imagine finding them for the enjoyment of others will be all that difficult." She let out a decidedly demented giggle.

"I think I could handle that yes." Lorelai flashed her new patron a bright, malevolent grin

"A bottle of elven red, for the lady." Nyxvira said into the intercom, before taking her thumb off of the button.

"So, it looks like we're at an agreement, then." She grinned darkly "Who knows what sort of crazy bat-shit fun we'll get up to together?"

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

@Aerandir@Ellion@Shagranoz

You're next! Not a torture dungeon

@Meiyuki

Toast! Get in the dungeon playground and keep me company!

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

@Aerandir@Ellion@Shagranoz

You're next! Not a torture dungeon

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

Is titanpad being a twat for anyone else?

Spells in the Dark (18+ For dark and suggestive themes)

Are there any hunter at or around the bar left? Or are they all out hunting?