Conflicted

Conflict Continuum
Conflicts
Conflicted Rules
CC High Council

"Give me a second, I--I need to get my story straight. My friends are in the bathroom get higher then the Empire state. My lover she’s waiting for me just across the bar. My seat’s been taken by some sunglasses asking 'bout a scar, and I know I gave it to you months ago, I know you’re trying to forget. But between the drinks and subtle things, the holes in my apologies, you know I’m trying hard to take it back. So if by the time the bar closes and you feel like falling down, I’ll carry you home." At that moment the boys joined in for the chorus and the whole club jumped to their feet and began screaming. Fox grinned into the mic as she took it off the stand and moved around the stage, her voice growing with enthusiasm. Looking over at Benny she winked at him before turning back to the crowd.

---

"My family, is human." Aaliyah replied with a shrug, "But I am a Nymph." She smiled and let her supernatural allure flare just a little. Elnora would feel a feeling like a teen might feel when looking at a hot rock star.

"Aaah, so your a nymph then. I thought I could sense some strange aura about you." Elnora replied as she casually leaned against the bar. "It has been a while since i've met one of your kind. Are you all hiding away?" she said with a chuckle.

Several sets later Fox announced that they were going to take a break. Putting her mic back on the stand she climbed down from the stage. Heading over to the bar she paused as her vision began to blur and eventually the bar was gone and replaced with something different entirely.

Strong but tender hands roamed over her soft curves as she cried out in ecstasy as her orgasm subsided. Opening her eyes, she looked up into the familiar face of her fiance. A soft smile spread across her face.

"I love you, Rafe." Reaching out towards him she pulled him closer for a passionate kiss.

"I love you, as well, Foxy." Running a hand through her soft white hair he rolled over to lay beside her and pulled her against his chest. They'd just made love for the first time and it had been perfect. He'd decorated his room with candles and roses lie everywhere. He'd finally convinced Fox to share his bed with him in an intimate way and she had not disappointed...

Slowly the scene began to fade away and was replaced with the bar once again. Seeing Aaliyah she hurried over to the bar and collasped against a stool, almost smacking her head against the bar. Tears were streaming down her cheeks as the vision replayed in her mind. "Aaliyah...I need a drink please. I don't care what it is, just make it strong..."

"I don't know, I've--" Aaliyah was about to tell Elnora that she'd never met another nymph either when Fox practically fell over the bar. She immediately snatched a glass and began mixing a good, strong drink. "What's wrong, Fox?" she asked, a hint of concern touching her usually nonchalant features.

Fox looked up at Aaliyah and shook her head. "Just a really strong vision." Pulling herself up into the stool straight she stared off into space, seeming very distracted. Propping her elbows up on the bar and resting her head in her hands. Willing her tears away she tried figuring out what her vision meant. They always meant something. There was never not a meaning. It always led to something.

Benny was smiling as he parted ways with a group of club goers who had pulled him aside. They were clearly drunk already, he noted, the guys calling him 'cool' repeatedly and he was careful to detach the women falling all over him and drape them over some suited males. Such easy going goofs, their customers. When he looked around and caught sight of Fox, however, his smile immediately fell and he strode quickly over to the bar, trying not to alert too many people to his unease. "Fox..." he said gently as he took the stool at her side, tilting his head as if to try and see her face. "What's wrong?" She had been so happy just a few minutes ago, or from what he had been able to see from behind her on stage. He lifted a hand to place it gently on her shoulder, wanting to comfort her but not sure how until he knew what was wrong. Had some man touched her? If so... Oh he'd murder them.

Fox jumped at the sound of Benny's voice. Glancing around she shook her head gently. "Uh...just a bad vision...No big." She shot her eyes over at Aaliyah as if begging her not to mention that Fox had been crying. Clearing her throat she ran a hand through her hair and leaned her head against her hand and closed her eyes. What was she could to do? What did this mean! Had she made the mistake when she'd chosen Benny over Rafe...or was her mind just playing games with her? And how was she supposed to tell the difference? Sighing heavily she looked up at Aaliyah as she mixed a drink for Fox.

That response far from comforted Benny. He was still frowning at her, seeming more concerned than ever. "Is it still him?" he asked, of course oblivious to the possible double entendre. "What happened this time?" It was worrying him more and more as Fox's visions became more frequent. It had been so long, they were at peace, at least for the most part, and now this? What was causing it? Surely he had died somewhere along the road? Or otherwise given up- No. What was he thinking. Sirens didn't give up. On anything they wanted.

Aaliyah set the glass down in front of Fox with a questioning look. Maybe it wasn't any of her business, but she wanted to know what was going on, Fae having visions that sent them into moods like this, couldn't mean anything good...could it? She'd never really been around anything but humans until she found this place.

"It is still him but it was just him thats all. It just upset me." As Aaliyah placed her drink in front of her Fox reached out and snatched it up, taking a big long gulp from it. Was she regretting her choice to make love with Benny and to be with him? Was she doubting her love for him? She let out a shuddering sigh just before she took another long gulp of her drink. Boy did it have a kick to it! Her vision blurred just slightly letting her know if she kept it up she would be on her way to getting drunk.

"Easy there." Aaliyah said, looking at the drink that was now about half gone. She didn't know how Fox was with alcohol, but the nymph had mixed Fox something that could knock even Aaliyah on her ass.

Benny gripped Fox's shoulder slightly, almost as if ready to steady her. Faes didn't handle alcohol well, that's why Fox usually had water. "Do you want to just go up to the apartment?" he asked her, giving a glance around to see if anyone was looking at them. No need to draw attention to weakness right. He looked at Fox again, concern filling his eyes. "Come on.. I'll help you up to bed.. You can have a rest..." He stood from his stool and reached out to carefully extricate what little was left of her drink from her hand.

"No!" Fox snatched the drink away from Benny and quickly finished it. Her body gave a shiver as the taste and affect of the drink washed over her. "Glad ta 'ave ya as a bartender Aaliyah. Ya do well..." Fox noticed the slur in her speech but shrugged it off. Looking over at Benny she frowned deeply. "I don wanna go upstairs..." Sighing angrily she moved away from Benny and headed out onto the dance floor where Rain, Lynx, and Adder were dancing. She shimmied up to Lynx and began dancing with him to the beat of the music. Rain and Adder paused momentarily as Lynx stood their perplexed. They all glanced towards Benny afraid of his reaction. Lynx stood stock still with his arms at his sides, unwilling to touch Fox.

Aaliyah watched Fox go, a perplexed look on her face. "What's with her?" she asked Benny as she poured a club soda for a customer who'd just come off the dance floor.

Benny's expression was one of almost painful sadness as he watched Fox storm off. "I have no idea..." he muttered to Aaliyah, though he was mostly talking to himself. Ignoring the way his heart ached heavily in his chest, he looked at Lynx and made a motion from his eyes, to Fox, as if to say 'keep an eye on her'. He wasn't about to disobey her wishes, but she hadn't acted this way since... when? Soon after they had broken ties with Rafe? He felt the blood in him grow hot, as if angry, and yet he felt like he had been punched in the gut. Fox had never rejected him, not even when she was with someone else. And she didn't want to lie down? Even after a painful vision? Had... had another man caught her eye down here? Hurt gold eyes looked unhelpfully around the dance floor. No one seemed to have her attention, but perhaps the man had already left? She hoped he'd come back? But... No... She had been there so long... Surely no one would just... pop up... Right?

Fox stopped dancing suddenly and pressed her forehead against Lynx's chest. "Im so confused. I can't tell whether my visions are real or not anymore." Tears began streaming down her face as her vision blurred. "Oh not again..." The sounds around them faded and she collapsed in Lynx's arms. This time her vision wasn't quite so blunt. Instead she was in the shower, with of course Rafe. She knew deep down what they were doing but he vision didn't show it or voice it. She just was. As she stood by and felt the water running down her face she blamed this all on the alcohol. It had always had a funny reaction to her. Waiting out the vision for a few moments longer she was pulled back into the present but she still felt the water running down her face. Touching her cheeks she brought her fingers to her lips and licked them realizing they were tears she shoved away from Lynx and looked around frantically. Why is this happening...Why now after all this time...and why so...erratic. Swallowing past the fear that was rising up inside of her she headed towards the stairs to her apartment only to be stopped by a very burly looking man. "Hey sweetheart, care for a dance?" Pulling her against him, he placed his hands on her ass and held tightly to her. "Ah! Help!"

"If you wish to remain breathing you will unhand her," a very dark and unrelenting voice spoke behind the man, just a step or two up the stairs. A hand had found it's way around his throat and, although he had no fangs, the voice certainly made it sound like they would have been at home in the matching mouth. Gold eyes glowed in the darkness, the hand tightening so that the barest of cuts formed on the man's throat. No one touched Fox and lived. He'd have murdered him as soon as he stepped out of the shadows if not for the need to not draw attention to the club.

Fox gasped as the man instantly released her. She turned to look at who's voice she had heard, thinking it was Rafe, but when she couldn't see anyone in the shadows she thought she might have imagined it. But then as she watched the human fight off whatever attacker it was, she frowned. Then she noticed the hand around the humans throat and the gold eyes. Biting her bottom lip she stood and watched for a moment. "That's enough...Let him go..."

The attacker was instantly thrown to the wall of the stair case and strong arms wrapped around Fox, holding her close for a moment before the 'rescuer' stepped back. Benny, face coated with concern, stepped back to look at her face, cupping her cheek and looking her all over for harm. "Fox, are you ok? I'm so sorry- You shouldn't go off by yourself!" He looked at the man left on the stairs, a little stunned from the attack at the moment, and gave him a deadly glare before he looked back at Fox. "Did he hurt you??"

Her instincts wanted Fox to throw herself into the comfort of Benny's arms but her heart told her that she was too confused and upset from her vision to embrace him. "No..." clearing her throat she spoke with more strength and clarity. "No, I'm fine. Are you?" looking up into his eyes she but down on her lip and watched him carefully. She'd never been uncomfortable around Benny before until this damned vision. What was wrong with her?!?! Sighing she wrapped her arms around her waist as if sheilding herself, protecting herself.

Aaliyah watched from the bar, concern in her eyes as she grabbed a glass, mixed a drink, and set it in front of a customer, without looking once at the customer or the bottles she was using.

"No... no of course not," Benny replied, his words soft and absent. He reached out instinctively to place a hand on her arm, ignoring the man as he scuttled away with nervous glanced down the stairs back into the club. "Fox.. something's wrong... Why won't you talk to me?" He felt his heart growing darker each moment he had to watch her pulling away like this. Why hadn't he been here sooner? Why had he let her walk off on her own when we was clearly intoxicated? Why hadn't he- He took a mental breath. He just wanted her to be safe and happy and she wasn't either of those things and it made him want to rampage the city, wiping it clean of anything that might hurt his perfect Fox.

"I'm not sure. Just...After that vision my head is just all screwed up." Sighing heavily Fox ran a shaking hand through her hair. "I'm sorry. I know I'm being distant. I'm not trying to be, just a little shook up." Instead of listening to her mind she reached out and grabbed Benny by the back of the neck and pulled him close. Her arms flew around his neck and clung to him.

Strong arms encircled her automatically and held her close. "Come on," he said softly after a moment. "Let's get you to bed so you can rest..." In one smooth motion Benny lifted her into his arms and carried her up to their apartment. "Do you want to tell me about your vision?" he asked gently as he carried her. He didn't want to pressure her, but she always used to be so open with him, sharing her fears so easily, letting him be her protector. When had that begun to falter? His focus was torn slightly as he mulled that over.

"No!" A deep blush rose up in her cheeks as Fox wrapped her arms around his neck. Taking a deep breath she shook her head. "I mean...it's... It's just not something I want to discuss right now." Sighing softly she shook her head. What am I going to do?!?! I have to sleep in the same bed as this man! Looking up into Benny's eyes she frowned slightly. She loved him though, didn't she?

The expression that met her was a matching little frown. "Alright.. But I'm here when you want to talk about it. I'm always going to be here for you." Benny gave her what he hoped was a comforting smile then focused on what he was doing as he carefully opened the door to their home and carried her toward the bedroom. "You should just rest for now..." He laid her on her side of the bed then sat on the very edge. Through all promises and assurances, he was feeling the smallest amount of doubt try to creep in. What made this vision so different? Why wouldn't she share with him? She always shared with him, even the horrific nightmares she had once had of Rafe. What could this possibly be? "Would you like me to stay?"

"Uh...you can stay...It's your apartment too." Sitting up Fox scooted back and leaned against the headboard of the bed and closed her eyes. Sighing heavily she laid her hand on top of her lap. Kicking off of her shoes she kicked them aside and crossed one foot over the other.

Benny chuckled softly, glad she seemed at least a little more like her old self. "Perhaps, but I always considered it yours, and I was just lucky enough to be allowed to stay here with you," he said as he reached over to lay his hand on hers, enjoying the moment together. His smile was fading into concern again, however. "... Do you want to tell me about your vision now that we're alone?" he asked gently. He knew he was prying slightly, but he wanted to know what was upsetting her so much.

"No! Benny I don't want to talk about it." Getting irritated, Fox slid off of the bed and headed towards the kitchen. Grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge she popped it open and took a long drink from it. She'd snapped at him but she didn't know how else to get him off her case. She didn't want him knowing about this one. It was too...awful.

"Alright, jeez, I'm sorry," Benny told her once he had followed her into the kitchen, staying out of her personal space. It sounded more casual than heartfelt though. She had always told him everything, it was a bit of an irritation to feel like he wanted to help and able to do nothing about it just because wouldn't talk about it. Other than his love of war, and the images that followed, he'd never kept anything from her. Well... access to his mind, but that kind of fell into line with the previous thought. Still, she had no right or reason to be so... irritating. "I'll drop it." He sat on one of their mismatched stools and watched her with the slightest furrow of his brow. What could possibly be her problem?

Sighig heavily, Fox reached back into the fridge for a large bottle of vodka and poured herself a tall glass. Mixing some orange juice in with it she took a sip of it and sighed. "Perfect." It had been years since she'd allowed herself to drink. Especially to this extent. The last time had been when they'd left Rafe and she'd been irritable and unsure of so much. Now it was to do with Rafe all over again. Taking a long slow drink she smiled softly and jumped up onto the counter, a bit dizzy she wavered. "Ooh.."

The stool scratched the floor shortly as Benny made a half motion, standing and reaching toward her to catch her if she fell. Of course, she didn't and he had stopped the motion incomplete. He sighed, letting himself fall dejectedly back onto his stool, both glad she hadn't toppled and getting more irritated by her actions. "Guess it's good I stayed. You don't seem to be in any mood to be responsible," he muttered unhappily. Fox never drank, and it concerned him all the more what this vision had been.

Fox stared at him for a moment, anger clear in her eyes. "Its not like anythings going to happen. I'm in the apartment and the only 'safe' way out is through the club. Not like I could get away with anything anyway!" Fox knew she was being childish but she wanted him off her back. She just wanted to forget the vision and move on with her life. Why was it so important to him to know what it was about? It was just a damned vision, a vision she wasn't sure if it happened or not.

"Falling off the counter would certainly hurt!" Benny snapped back, feeling his blood heat up. He closed his eyes, taking a few calming breaths. Why was she being so belligerent. He pushed the stool back from the counter and stood. "You always tell me everything Fox... Why not now? What did you see? Am I going to die or something? Are you-!" His irritation deflated and he suddenly looked concerned. "Are... are you going to die?"

"No... Benny, no one is going to die. Your over reacting." Crossing her arms over her chest, Fox sighed heavily. Was he, was he really over reacting? Fox felt herself distancing from Benny, and he probably could too. He didn't understand what was going on but she needed to sort out her feelings and what was going through her mind. Making love to Rafe...whether it was in a vision or in real life, it was still upsetting.

"Am I?" It would seem Benny was thinking along the same lines. He moved around the counter until he was standing in front of her, his golden eyes begging. His heart felt like a seem long since healed was opening up again and he did not like it at all. "Why won't you tell me what you saw? If it isn't our death- and Gods help me if it was yours I'd murder the bastard with the sack to try it- then whatever it is, we can deal with it. ...Don't you trust me?" His hands reached out, as if asking for hers but somehow, for the first time in he couldn't remember how long, he didn't feel he had the right to touch her.

Biting down on her bottom lip, Fox fought with her own mind. Tell him or dont? Sighing heavily she shook her head. "It...Rafe...that's all Im saying." Looking down at the hands extended towards her she frowned slightly. Did she let him touch her? Had she defiled herself long ago with Rafe and didn't even realize it? "Benny...I don't know. I don't know if it was a vision or a memory. I just...I have to get out of here..." Jumping down from the counter she staggered slightly and headed for the door. Sighing heavily she hurried down the stairs into the club and over to the bar. "I need somewhere to stay...I can't be here anymore."

"Umm..." Aaliyah blinked in surprise as Fox approached the bar and essentially asked for a place to stay. In the time it took her to blink, however, she'd recovered her usual casual demeanor. She leaned her hip against the bar and crossed her arms under her breasts, drawing glances from several patrons. "I'm between places right now, but I'm sure we could figure something out." she said with a smile.

Fox just nodded her head, barely listening to what Aaliyah had said. She guessed she could stay with one of the guys. That would just be weird. Maybe Talia would let her crash on her couch. She didn't want to be in the way of the two new love birds but, she wasn't sure she could stay here with Benny. Her heart ached for him but she was so unsure of this vision that it scared her.

Aailyah frowned a little, still leaning her hip against the bar as she poured a beer for a customer and set it on the bar in front of him. "Hey, you alright?" she asked, dropping her mask and showing her concern. Fox had struck her as being very level-headed, and she'd never seen someone like that act this sporadic all of a sudden. Not without drugs at least.

Over at the stairs, Benny reappeared, seeming to find Fox by mere instinct. He just looked over to her, face contorted with sadness, then turned and headed to the stage. There was nothing to be done. She needed her space. He managed a sad smile as the crowd whistled and cheered at him, glad to see the other guys take up their instruments, expression matching his own sad one. He started, more in his own world, not even really noticing as the band joined in. "Do you hear me, I'm talking to you. Across the water, across the deep. Blue... Ocean... Under the open sky..."

"No..not really..." Fox had thought about asking for another drink but she knew deep down it would do her no good. Sighing she turned as the familiar voice began singing. Raising her eyebrows, she swiveled around on her stool and stared up at Benny as he sang. Furrowing her eyebrows she sighed heavily. She wasn't sure what to think. Should she tell him about her vision? Tell him exactly what was upsetting her... Would he understand?

"Hey," Aaliyah nudged Fox gently, "How about when I get off here, I take you out and show you my side of the world?" The nymph wore a mischievous smile, she'd frequented all the best up-scale clubs and she knew where she and Fox could cut loose and have the time of their lives. And Aaliyah never payed her own tab.

Fox raised her eyebrows questioningly at Aalyiah but nodded her head. "That would be nice." Glancing around the club she noticed a lot of people were enjoying themselves. Running her hand through her hair she continued to watch Benny. He did have the voice of an angel. Sighing she bit down on her bottom lip and just relaxed.

Aaliyah gave Fox an wink and went back to waiting on customers, sizing the other woman up out of the corner of her eye as she worked. "Do you have any...other kinds of clothing?" she asked conversationally after a little while. "You know, a sexy dress or something?"

Fox looked down at herself and frowned. "Well I guess. I don't own any dresses but I do have a corset and a leather skirt..." She hadn't worn dresses in...years. Since Rafe was around. Rafe...Gods was she stupid. She couldn't keep letting her mind get the best of her. She needed more self control.

Aaliyah looked at her thoughtfully as she refilled another patron's drink. "That could work... Can I see it?" she asked, her smile turning a little impish.

Fox raised her eyebrows at Aaliyah's question before shrugging her shoulders. "Want me to go change into it now? Or...Wait until your shift is over?" She'd never had someone ask of they could see her outfit before. Of course she had never had a "girlfriend" before either. Talia was a lot like herself So they didn't exchange fashion ideas.

"Hmm..." Aaliyah made a show of thinking about it before turning back, "How about now?" She suggested with a sly half-smile.

Fox raised an eyebrow before turning on her heel and hurried back up to the apartment. She quickly changed into her only sexy outfit before coming back downstairs. Glancing around she blushed as tons of men stared at her. Swallowing past the lump her throat she hurried over to the bar.

No amount of hurrying could leave her unnoticed by Benny's watchful eye however. Though he doubted anyone was able to ignore the shift of attention like a wave in the crowd. His eyes blazed and he let the last note of his song die before he simply stepped to the edge of the stage and dropped off, walking past people who's admiration quickly dissolved into fear at the look on his face. He'd carve their eyes out with a rusty spoon... She had to be doing this on purpose, making him jealous or something. What was she playing at. When he got to the bar, he placed a hand on her bare shoulder, ignoring the electricity the contact shot through him. His eyes, filled with anger and, above all, hurt, looked at Fox, a million questions in his head and unable to say a single one. What came out was certainly not his first choice, and less so the best choice. "What do you think you're doing?" he stressed, trying very hard not to turn around and stab out the eyes of all the men looking in their direction. "If this is some kind of joke to you-"

Fox raised her eyebrows at Benny before looking down at his hand on her shoulder. It felt so good having him touch her bare skin. Signing heavily she shook her head. "Aaliyah wanted to take me out." Sighing she grabbed his arm and led him over to a booth in the corner. "I know you've got questions so...out with it... While im in a slightly good mood."

"Hell yes I've got questions!" Benny said with a visible effort to keep himself from shouting it outright. He looked rather distraught, now that they were at least mostly alone. He had never been at odds with Fox and it was making him feel very uneasy and he was fighting off the anger that came with that. He motioned to her outfit, make a few other gestures that should have went with shouting, but he just looked at a loss for words. Finally, he fisted his hands and forced them down by his sides. "First you blow me off after telling me you had a vision about.. him, though you wouldn't tell me what it was about exactly for the first time in I can't remember how long, then the new bar tender talks you into wearing-" He blushed, eyes wide and motioned all over to her outfit again. "This. I KNOW you aren't so easy-!" He stopped dead, his feelings dying in his chest and stabbing his heart for good measure. He should not have said that and his face automatically showed how awful he felt. His hands changed, more reaching out for forgiveness. "Fox- I didn't mean... Just.. Usually you aren't so revealed and I-"

Fox stared at him for a moment before the anger finally built to a breaking point. Reaching out she smacked him across the face. "I never thought I'd say this to you... But if you ever, say something like that to me again. I'll never forgive you. You of all people should know I'm not easy." Tears brimmed her eyes for a moment as his words sank in. Also with the fact that she'd just hit him, she'd never hit him before. Well maybe once but that was a long time ago. But if she recalled he'd deserved it then too. Standing she turned away from him and shook her head. "The apartment is yours. I'll find somewhere else to stay." Leaving the table she went upstairs to the apartment and pulled her duffel bag out of the closet and began filling it with her needed things. She couldn't stay here with him. She couldn't share the same bed with him, knowing how bad his words had hurt her. Placing her hands on the bed she stood there and allowed gut wrenching sobs to escape her.

Seeing an agitated Fox hurry up the stairs, Aaliyah motioned for one of the guys to take over for her and she followed the fae without so much as a glance at Benny or anyone else. She knew the others had known Fox a lot longer, but she had a feeling another woman might be best. She knocked gently on the apartment door and slipped inside. She came up behind Fox and rubbed her back a little, letting her cry and be out with in in her own time.

"I'm not going to the club tonight, Aaliyah. I'm sorry." Shoving her bulging duffle bag off of the bed, Fox turned around so she could sit down. Placing her head in her hands she sighed heavily, all her tears ceased to exist, as if they had never actually been there. Laying back against the soft silky comforter, she closed her eyes and tried to block out the memory of her hand colliding with Benny's face. She couldn't even remember the last time she'd stuck him, or hurt him in anyway. But to be angry and hit him, that was something new entirely.  

Aailyah sat down beside Fox, "Whatever happened back there, you probably both just need some space and time to cool off." the nymph said gently, "Why don't we go blow off some steam and then you can think about whatever is going on. I don't have to take you to a club, there are other places."

Fox nodded her head and smiled. "It's been...years, since Benny and have had...space. Maybe your right." Standing, she wiped the wetness from her face, inhaled deeply and smiled hopefully at Aailyah. "I'll just let the boys know we're going." Leading the way back down into the club she looked around and found Rain. Waving him over she explained to him what was going on and told him they were in charge, with that she turned to Aailyah and shrugged. "Lets go!"

Aaliyah lead Fox out of the club, heading toward the side of town where she grew up. When the two reached the wealthier side of the city they began to draw glances more often. The looks given to Fox tended to look disproving toward her clothing, even scandalized on occasion. The glances toward Aaliyah, on the other hand, seemed to suggest gossip. The nymph, however, didn't seemed fazed by the occasional whisper, instead she seemed to revel in the attention. Soon they reached a home that appeared surprisingly intact and rather large. She glanced at Fox, giving her a wink, and walked in.
The inside of the building was immaculate, surprising after the grime of the street, even in this part of the city. Once inside, the sound of loud dance music could be heard down the hall. Aaliyah grinned mischievously at Fox and drew her down the hall toward the sound. As they came around the corner, they could see a club-like setup in what looked like it was meant to be a dining room. Aaliyah grabbed a bottle of alcohol off a table on her way in and turned to look at Fox almost like an excited child looking to a parent for approval..

---

Dash chuckled, letting his mind indulge in petty fantasy, at least for the moment. Talia did that to him, let him think things could be so much simpler. "House in the suburbs, white picket fence? Two point five kids and a dog named spot?" he half teased. Hadn't that once been the dream of humans? That perfect sort of life. His tone shifted to thoughtful as he held her close, letting her rest against him. "I wonder what a mage and shape shifting child could do..."

"Well what are all your abilities Dash? I mean its pretty obvious what I do.."Talia chuckled as she rested her head against his chest. "I can change into any living creature, male or female. I don't have any super strength or bullet proof skin. I just make people believe I do..So what will you contribute to the children?" She laughed again in disbelief. "I can't believe we're talking about our children and we haven't even kissed properly."

Dash couldn't help it. He blushed again, lowering his face as if to hide it from the crowd around them. "Forgive me," he apologized. He hadn't really thought about it before, but he had assumed he'd have children the same way most people just didn't think about kids. It wasn't logical, or preferential, or anything like that. It would just... occur, some day, wouldn't it? His older brother even- Oh, Benny had never mentioned kids to Fox had he? His heart clenched a little. When they were younger- well, not children themselves, but just past maturity- they had discussed being fathers. It seemed they both just thought it would happen some day. And yet here they were, centuries later, and nothing. Perhaps it wouldn't happen, perhaps they really were the last. He sighed mentally. What a sad thought. He turned his attention back to the woman in his arms and couldn't help but smile a little, his blush having faded a little as he thought. As long as he had her, he supposed he didn't need anyone else, his offspring included. "It was just the way I was raised," he explained, purposely skipping over her earlier question. He, and Benny, both didn't like talking about what they did. It was better to avoid talking about it than to creep people out with the brothers' excitement when talking about it, and the coupling sadness that came with the knowledge they could no longer partake of war.

"You don't need to apologize Dash. I didn't mean that I don't want children, I do, very much so." Talia replied looking up into Dash's eyes. "I've just never been with anyone who wanted to marry me and have children with me.." She smiled then rested her head back against his chest. "How many children would you like?" She asked trying to get back to the topic.

"As many as we would," Dash replied, then stiffened slightly. "Not! Of course, that, I'd be TRYING to have them. Just.. you know. I don't want to put a number on it, min or max, just, whatever happens, happens, without us trying. Not that I think it will be so easy! I just- Ohh..." He groaned, closing his eyes and lowering his head again. He had stopped dancing. This was horridly awkward. She was right, they hadn't even kissed yet! Somehow the carnal act of sex to procreate seemed distant, but to put Talia in the equation... His face reddened again. It instantly became personal. And just kissing her? He didn't even feel that brave yet. Children were a looooong way off.

"Would you relax?" Talia said with a chuckle. "This is supposed to be a good thing, you know. We've confessed our feelings and we've agreed to court. Yes..its going to be a little strange at first as we truely get to know one another but that doesn't mean we shouldn't have fun. Alright tell me whats on your mind Dash? Why are you getting so embarassed?" she asked watching him.

"Well- I.. haven't courted... ever," Dash muttered, unable to make eye contact. At least his blush was minimal, but that could simply be his manipulating the blood flow. "Dated," he corrected himself. He really should have practiced better, like his brother, with other women. Was that why it was so easy for him to be affectionate with Fox? Because he flirted with everyone anyway? It was so long ago when the two had met, it was fuzzy how they had first interacted. He looked down at Talia and gave her the barest of smiles. "I'm sorry, but for the first time in my life, it seems someone has me at a disadvantage."

Talia chuckled and rested her forehead against Dash's chest for a few moments before looking back at him. "Okay..well if we were to take things at your pace what exactly would you have us do first?" she asked. "Do you wish for us to have a proper date before we kiss for the first time or what?" she continued with a playful smile.

"If it were up to me, we would not kiss until after I had asked your father for your hand," Dash explained, grinning in a nervous sort of way. "But of course, that's quite out of date... And.. Impossible." He looked toward the ceiling, trying to think as they moved on the dance floor lazily. After a long moment he looked at Talia again. "I would like to take you on a proper date, but since I know you'll be the person I'm with regardless of pace, I suppose we'll let you take the lead as far as our relationship goes." He paused his movements and frowned at her, concerned. "This... is a relationship.. right?"

"Yes Dash..this is a relationship." Talia replied with a playful smile then winked. "Ya scared?" She chuckled lightly before looking back at him. "And as far as asking my father for my hand or whatever..thats gonna be hard because I don't know where he is exactly..but you wouldn't want to meet him anyway. He's kinda scary from what I remember." She smiled again then looked round the bar. "I guess Benny and Fox have gone for the night...do you really have to work or can I try that whole making you dinner thing again? I could be myself.." she said referring to her natural state.

Dash couldn't help it. He grinned playfully back and leaned down to rest his forehead against hers. "Temptress," he quipped and chuckled before standing upright again. He wanted to tell her he was the scariest thing she was ever likely to see, but one, he didn't think she'd believe him, and two, he hoped she would never see him that way. He didn't want to scare her off after all. No matter how tough she might seem to be, very, very few unflinchingly saw the blood brothers' love of carnage. "We can have dinner, if you really want to have a go at it. I do need to work, but it can wait until later in the night." Most of the worse creatures would be active then anyway.

Talia smiled brightly. "Good. Now i'll warn you, i'm a terrible cook. If you were after a domesticated partner i'm afraid you're going to be disappointed but I will try my best. Just pretend you like it..okay?" She said then chuckled. "Now would you like to do the honours of taking us home or would you rather do it the old fashioned way and walk?"

"I can take us home," Dash told her gently and took her hand to lead her to a darker private booth, thankfully devoid of others at the moment. He paused before they actually left and turned to look at her, glad the music was muffled here. "And Talia... I had no idea what I was after until I found you," he told her seriously, then smiled and with a featherlight touch brushed the backs of his fingers against her cheek. That said, he tugged her to himself, wrapped an arm securely around her, then stepped into the chilly darkness. He was grateful that her apartment was so close as it was only a moment before they stepped into her living room and he loosened his firm grip around her body, letting her step away. "And really I've been living on the street for so long, I doubt I'd notice bad food if it was literally staring me in the face," he continued lightly.

"Well no more living on the street for you Mr..you stay here now." Talia replied as she kicked her shoes off and threw her jacket on the couch. "Make yourself comfortable." She said with a smile then stepped into the kitchen where she could be heard rummaging around before there was several loud bangs and crashes and a strong smell of burning suddenly began seeping from the room.

Dash had been carefully taking his faded hoodie off and laying it on the couch when he heard the crashes. He was in the kitchen in a second, concern written all over his face as looked all over, first to assess the situation, then secondly to locate Talia to help her (once he was certain the apartment was not ACTUALLY going to burn down). "Talia?! Are you ok? What happened??"

Talia jumped from where she had had been stooped over rummaging in the fridge. A large pot was sat on the stove and the contents were the reason for the horrid burning smell. "What are you talking about?" She said with a raised eyebrow as she watched him. She chuckled lightly then moved back to the stove and after peering into the pot with a confused expression began sprinkle large amounts of salt and pepper and various other herbs and spices into it. It was obvious she didn't have a clue what she was doing.

Dash stared, wide eyed. She's trying to kill me. He shook his head to clear his thoughts and his expression, then turned a small frown on her. "Why did you want to do this if you're so terrible at it?" he said, only a half question really. The fact that it might hurt her feelings hadn't crossed his mind. She had said she was bad at it, after all. He was pretty sure, in the short time his brother and he had went feral, hunting and eating raw meat in the woods, had still be distinctly safer than this.

"What? You don't like the smell?" Talia replied looking hurt as she peered into the pot. "And I thought I was actually doing okay..." She sighed and turned the stove off before turning to Dash. "I just wanted to try and do something nice for you..but I failed miserably. I'm sorry. I'll just throw it away.."

"If I needed a house wife, I would have a house," Dash pointed out as he stepped further into the kitchen. "Talia... does that-" he motioned vaguely to the burnt substance in the pot. "Smell... good to you? Maybe it's just the creature you are... what do you regularly eat?" He often became curious about other creatures, the more he knew about them the less likely he was to be killed for setting them off. Though, he doubted Talia would kill him. ...Doubted, but didn't guarantee.

"I'll eat anything really..but it depends on what creature I have shifted into at the time. I change my diet to fit the role." Talia replied then sniffed the pot before wrinkling her nose in disgust. "You're right..I don't even think a rat would eat that." She said then chuckled as she looked back at Dash. "I'm a human right now so my appetite is fairly normal. In my true form..I have a very very sweet tooth."

"Normal is relative," Dash said dismissively, a small grin trying to play with his mouth again. "But it is good to know something I can find for you. I might not know much about courting in this time, but when I learned it, hunting for your lady was perfectly acceptable, and bring her back a prize. The fact that the target is now candy and not a stag is irrelevant." He chuckled.

"Lots of candy...and chocolate, cakes, pastries.."Talia replied and almost went into a dreamy state as she thought of all her favourite food. She blinked and looked at Dash, giving a small smile of embarassment. "I like sugar. So what about you? Whats the one thing you could never say no to? Apart from me that is..." She said and winked playfully her eyes switching momentarily to her black ones.

Dash smiled at her quip, his heart leaping at her shift in eyes, but it was a little weak as he debated whether or not to tell her the truth. In the end, he supposed it was best to be honest, if they were really going to be together that she love him, not a lie he would have to live. "Murder," he answered, the word almost hollow and his honey eyes locked on hers, waiting calmly for her response.

Talia laughed as she lifted the pot from the stove and carried it to the trash, throwing the entire thing away. When she didn't hear Dash's returning laughter she turned to look at him, a look of surprise on her face when she realised he wasn't joking. "Murder?" She repeated in a low voice then gulped nervously as she moved back to lean against the counter. "Uh..how..how often do you..." she said but wasn't able to finish the question.

"Not a lot. Lately," Dash answered, watching her very closely with steady eyes. Inside, he was wringing his hands, nervous she would panic. "It was a very long time ago... Don't worry, it's.. mostly... in the past." He frowned, looking apologetic but really he was just sad that it was in the past. Blood mages were meant for wars, not domestication. Fox and Talia.. they were leashes, and they had no idea how anchoring they were, or how strong Benny and Dash's loyalty to them was. He took a step toward Talia, holding out a hesitant hand for her to take. "I promise you Talia, you are in no danger with me. Even if who I was was who I still am, I would never harm you, and I would never let anyone else do so."

Mostly in the past? Talia thought nervously then watched as he extended a hand towards her. Does that mean he's killed someone recently? She bit her lip then slowly reached out her hand and placed it in his. "I admire your honesty with me Dash.." she said quietly. "I know that could not have been easy to admit.." She took a step towards, still clutching his hand. "Why do you like...killing people?" she asked looking into his eyes.

"It's hard to see most creatures as people," Dash explained, then realized that might not make complete sense. He held her hand with slight pressure, like a hug, and allowed himself a moment to think out his response. "It's like... Storage. I can see them as people, yes, but it's more natural just to look at them as walking, talking sacks of blood, which is like air to me-" And Benny. "It feels more natural for it to be around than to be without it... Have you ever been swimming, Talia? And dove deep into the water, to see how far you could go, and when you wanted to come back up you could hear your lungs screaming for your to breath and how incredible it feels when you break the surface and gasp? The moment someone dies- The moment they stop being aware of the world and become my air- it's like breaking the surface of the water when I break their skin. It is not a sick joy," he said the last part firmly, but not cruelly. "It is just what is natural for me. But you-" He reached out with his free hand to cup her cheek. "You make me feel like I can breath in this world filled with thick smoke, and I don't need to come up for air. As long as I have you."

Talia smiled then squeezed his hand. "If you ever really feel like you do need to kill someone I count point you in the direction of some horrible people." She said jokingly then laughed. "Thank you for being honest with me, it really shows you care." She smiled softly and stepped closer to him then after pausing briefly leaned forward and kissed him lightly on the lips only for a few seconds before breaking it and stepping back to see how he would react.

Dash grabbed the counter, feeling his knees go weak for a moment. His head spun and his cheeks reddened. His first kiss. A dopey, lopsided grin spread across his face. "You're very welcome," he breathed, his eyes finally returning to her unfamiliar face. She had so very many. "Thank you, Talia.. for being so understanding..." He finally let go of the counter to rest his hand against her face, lightly stroking her cheek with his thumb. He chuckled. "But I don't think I should become your personal assassin."

"Oh alright then." Talia replied with a playful pout before chuckling. She placed her hand over his on her cheek then moved close to him again. "Would you pass out if I changed into myself?" She asked slowly. "I won't if it will make you uncomfortable.."

"It makes me uncomfortable in the most incredible way," Dash replied with a chuckle, then seemed to take a moment to think about it. "I might," he admitted, in answer to her question, then smiled at her again. "But only because you are so beautiful. I treasure every time I get to see you, Talia. So if it would make you more comfortable-" He closed his eyes. "Then do so, and I shall brace myself to see an angel."

Talia smiled then allowed herself to change into her normal form. "Don't look now.." She said jokingly as she tucked a strand of her white hair behind her ear and watched him with her black eyes. "You're going to have to get used to me like this Dash because you're going to see a lot of it. This is how i'm most comfortable..Open your eyes. Please?"

"I will never get used to how lucky I am," Dash replied before taking a steadying breath. Honey eyes opened and fell on an instantly familiar face, almost too beautiful to look at directly. Connecting with those dark pools he felt like he could travel anywhere, just like the darkest shadows, and he felt the world go into tunnel vision so all that was left was this blazing red light at the end, guiding his heart. He forced his knees to stay strong, to not look away, despite his blush creeping up his neck and ears. "And I will never understand how I got so lucky."

"I always used to think you couldn't stand me, like you found me really iritating or something." Talia remarked with a chuckle as she finally stepped back from him. "How wrong was I?" She laughed again as she stretched her arms. "Ah..it always feels like such a relief becoming me again. I mean I don't hate having to always look like a human or whatever other creature I have to be but its like..wearing a tshirt thats 2 sizes to small, its just not 100% comfortable. But this.." She said holding her arms up. "..this is comfortable because its me."

"You do irritate me," Dash told her absently as he let his eyes admire his angel, the blush lingering on his cheeks as he did to. He chose to ignore the voice berating him for the vulgarity though. "When I met you- and often when I see you still- you are very.... Open, with another body. You have to admit, you do not often play the type of girl I would waste the time of day on... I know it isn't you though, it's just someone you play. I suppose.. Your role irritates me, not really you. Women with..-" he cleared his throat, blushing more and slightly averting his eyes as he made hand gestures to his chest. "Chests... and.. little clothing..." He swallowed, closed his eyes a moment, then looked at her again, looking decidedly uncomfortable at his own thoughts. "Well I just think they could bear to be a little more modest, is all."

Talia listened to him with unexpected surprise then slowly looked down at her outfit. "So..you want me to cover up more? What would you rather me wear large sweaters and baggy trousers?" She asked with a raised eyebrow as she folded her arms tightly across her chest. "What exactly do you class as little clothing?" Her eyes were fixed on him with an 'I dare you to speak' gaze.

"No- I-I didn't mean it like that!" Dash stuttered quickly, holding his hands up submissively. "You're beautiful! I just don't- You know- usually you wear those skirts, or.. what are they? Core-sits? Look, yes, I admit, I wish I was the only one lucky enough to ever lay eyes on you-" He stopped dead, his face erupted in red, and he quickly averted his eyes, looking anywhere but at her. "I just... Think... your clothes don't matter... You're beautiful." Sunny eyes, perpetually warm, even when afraid, were forced to meet hers, not to look away no matter how embarrassed he may be. "Just you."

"Oh..so you'd be happy if I were to walk around nude then would you? Is that what you want? " Talia asked unable to stop a small smile spreading across her face. "You wouldn't have to worry about the indecent clothing that seems to bother you so much..." Her eyes sparkled mischievously as her smile widened, knowing that if he blushed anymore his head might explode.

Dash did not disappoint. His eyes widened and his face became nearly as red as Talia's skin. His stutter was instant. "N-n-no! I-I m-m-meant that y-you-" Why couldn't he be smooth like his brother? Why couldn't he just say outright 'no, I think I should be the only one to see that"? His expression became pleading as he noticed the way her smiled teased him. He barely withheld his groan. "Talia..." he almost whined. "Come on- I just think that the only person who should be seeing that is me on our wedding night-" His mouth snapped shut. Honesty might be the best policy, but it was doing him no favors when it came to smoothness. "That- You know- if we marry- in the future I mean! Not right now of course- No no, much too soon for that- And I don't even know if you'd want to! Of course you don't, we're not so close- b-but I'd want us to be! You know, in time-"

"Shhh relax Dash.." Talia said in a soothing tone as she stepped back towards him and slipped her hands into his. "I was just joking, i'm sorry. I shouldn't be so cruel." She smiled brightly at him and squeezed his hands gently. "I want us to get close as well and then one day marry. I really like that idea actually...being your wife." She chuckled at the thought. "Alright..if it will make you more comfortable I will try my best to cover up when I dress. Will that make you happy?"

Dash sighed with visible relief and squeezed her hands in return. "Yes," he breathed, his blush finally fading and allowing a little smile to show. He met her dark, fathomless eyes, with fond, sunshine colored ones, once again reveling in the fact that he had her. "In return, I want to do something for you. What would you like? Just name it, it's yours," he promised, listening intently. He felt like giving her the moon, useless as it may be, but she deserved something as heavenly as she was.

"Just promise never to lie to me Dash or hold any truths from me because you think it is what is best for me. If this relationship is to truely work then we must be completely honest, okay?" Talia replied seriously and watched him for a few moments before grinning suddenly. "Oh and lots of kisses and cuddles in public and as much chocolate as you can possibly bring me!"

Dash laughed out loud and pulled her into his arms for a warm hug. "The chocolate and and honesty I can do. I was always a terrible liar anyway. As for the publicity thing-" He leaned back slightly but did not release her to look down into her eyes, smirking slightly. "Are you some kind of exhibitionist?"

"What's so wrong with public displays of affection? Don't you want people to know we're in a relationship? That I am yours and no one else can take me?" Talia replied with a smile before chuckling. "Alright if you don't feel comfortable kissing and cuddling in public..at least hold my hand. Oh and another thing..." She said and her smile widened slightly. "Share my bed..we won't do anything, I promise. Not until we're married but when we lay together yesterday, its the safest I've felt in a long time."

Dash bit his lower lip uncertainly, but seemed to think it over. It was a long moment before he took a deep breath and responded. "I do not think that is such a good idea. It is more that I do not trust myself than anything else. Talia... I can promise to lay with you until you fall asleep, but not much else. Please... Don't ask me to. I promise you, some day, if you wish it, we can share a bed and I will hold you the entire night, but for now... I wish to retain your innocence." He smiled gently at her. He wasn't certain if Talia was 'innocent' or not, but he was not about to call her purity into question. It wasn't his business, it was in that past. What mattered now, as she said, was she was his and no one else could take her. He would knock out every tooth in the mouth of anyone who dared insult her honor, too. "I'm afraid it will be small steps with me, but if you can be patient, I will do my very best to adjust quickly, because I know I'll be able to make you happier than anyone else in the world."

Talia listened intently then finally nodded with a sigh. "Alright as long as you promise to be here every night to stay with me until I fall asleep then I shall be happy. I will also get the second bedroom fixed up so it is suitable for you to sleep in." She stepped forward and suddenly wrapped her arms around him, resting her head on his chest. "We'll go at whatever pace you feel comfortable Dash. Just knowing we're together makes me happy.."

"I am glad," Dash replied gently as he wrapped her in his arms, holding her close. "But if we do that, even I admit it's going to take a while to get anywhere. I've never dated in my life and unlike Benny I didn't flirt with reckless abandon. I'm out of practice, to say the least." He frowned down at her, almost a pout. "Help me?"

"So you wish for me to set the pace in our relationship?" Talia asked as she leaned her head back slightly so she could look into his eyes, her arms still wrapped around him. "Are you sure you want to give me that power?" she finished, smirking slightly up at him.

Dash returned the expression, leaning down a little so that his forehead rested against her and his chest beat harder against his chest at, what he perceived as, his own boldness. "There are few things I am surer of," he told her simply, but his smile fell. "But I will need to return to work soon... Much as I would hate to leave you... I want even less for my clients to come looking for me-" He brought one hand up to cup her face. "And find you..."

"I can take care of myself Dash, you don't need to worry about that. If anyone comes here, they'll soon be wanting to leave." Talia replied then chuckled. "I'm tough remember?" She slipped her hand into his then turned towards the bedroom. "Come on then, you're going to work so i'm going to bed and you promised you wouldn't leave until I was asleep." She pulled him into the bedroom then let his hand go and disappeared into her closet. Minutes later she reappeared wearing a pair of shorts and a vest and she quickly climbed under the covers before patting the space beside her with a smile.

Forcing himself to look away, Dash gave himself a quick once over to make sure he wasn't too filthy. He was so used to the layer of grime he was actually surprised he wasn't dirty at the moment. Satisfied he wouldn't ruin her bed (tonight anyway) he came around to what he guessed was becoming 'his side' of the bed and carefully laid down. He swallowed nervously before attempting something he felt was rather brazen. He pushed a hand under her and pulled Talia into his arms, holding her close. "I know you are strong," he told her quietly. "But I will always want to protect you."

Talia smiled and rested her head against his chest, enjoying the feeling of his arms around her. "So you'll be like my knight in shining armour if anything happens to me?" She said jokingly before yawning lightly and closing her eyes. "The only way anything bad will happen to me is if anyone finds out i'm a shifter and knew how to trap me properly, but thats not going to happen." She snuggled against him further. "That thought scares me more than anything..that someone would find out what I am.." These were her last words before she finally drifted off to sleep, clinging to the front of Dash's shirt.

"No one is ever going to hurt you, Talia..." Dash promised to the silence, his words as sincere, determined, as they were gentle. He lingered a moment, stroking her hair and simply holding her until her hands relaxed. He smiled, so happy to have her. He kissed her hair then carefully extricated himself, stepping into a shadow and reluctantly leaving her to find work, and help for Fox's revolution.

---

It felt like his chest exploded, the sound of skin striking skin like a gunshot. Benny had stood, stunned, hearing Fox's words as if from a great distance as she berated him and, in the end, left. One of his hands came up slowly to his chest, touching his shirt, and leaving his mind confused not to find it wet with blood. Fox had so rarely struck him, and usually he deserved it, but he had pushed her too far this time, and that showed as she left the booth. He felt like he couldn't keep standing and allowed himself to step back into the coolness of the shadow, simply hiding in the darkness. Deep parts of him screamed to go to her, to make everything alright, but logically he knew he couldn't. It was a long time before he managed to stand again and stumble his way through the darkness to the familiar alleys he often met with Dash in. He let himself collapse against the stone wall of the tunnel that he barely registered and slid down it to the grime covered pavement. He had found his way underground, merely a few subway streets from the main chamber filled with so many others, but he didn't care, didn't even think about that. All he could feel was that his vision was fuzzy around the edges, it was hard to breath, and, no matter what his hands said, there was a massive, gaping hole in his chest. His Fox... had left him. Maybe it wasn't forever, but it didn't work that way in his head. He wanted to die here, from lack of eating, if nothing else, as he had no will to do so. But no, he knew deep down that in time he would go to her again and plead forgiveness, watch over her from the shadows if nothing else, always be there for her, even if she never looked his way again. Just as soon as his heart stopped bleeding, and he could breath again.