NationStates Jolt Archive

Aeschia went and said her goodbyes and thanked the Tremere for their hospitality.

"Before we leave," Aeschia asked the Tremere clan, "Does anyone have a carriage they aren't currently using? We were planning to go to Paris, however, I would rather not fly or go on foot."

Vincent came over and brought them to the stable, where a luxurious, stunning carriage, fit for royalty, was parked. Six beautiful black shiny horses were in the barn.

"What do you think?" Vincent asked.

"It is gorgeous!" Aeschia exclaimed. "You do not need this?"

"No, not for months actually, and I think the driver is actually bored and the horses would love a jaunt through Paris." He smiled.

"Oh thank you so much Vincent! It is beautiful!" Aeschia handed Vincent a bag of gold.

Vincent refused and bowed. "I would never consider taking gold from you Lady Aeschia."

"Please Vincent... I insist. You can use it for whatever you need around the house here. Please?" Aeschia pouted and Vincent gave in.

"Morty," Vincent yelled, "You have work!"

Morty, a distinguished looking gentlemen came up. "Morty, this is Aeschia and Malthazius. You will be escorting them to and through Paris and wherever else they may want to go."

Morty bowed politely, Aeschia smiled and nodded.

"Well, I guess we are off. Come to think of it, Vincent... I have not been to Paris in a while." Aeschia grinned. "Are the same hotels of the luxury they used to be?" Vincent gave them the names of the best places to stay and eat.

"Thank you, thank you so much!" Aeschia yelled as Vincent walked back to the house.

In that short period of time Morty had the horses harnessed and ready to go. He stood holding the carriage door for Aeschia and Malthazius.

Aeschia tipped him well with a bag of gold, and they were off.

"This is a beautiful carriage... I was not expecting red velvet interior and gold, nor an area for beverages." Vincent had left a bucket of chilled champagne, and a small flask of Tremere blood for Aeschia.

"Champagne Malthazius?" she asked.

"Why not," he said. He took the bottle and poured for both he and Aeschia.

"So, you haven't been to Paris in a while? Tell me, what exactly is a while in vampire terms? You've told me that you're a relative ancient amongst the Kindred, but how old exactly, or do you not know?"

Aeschia gave Malthazius a sly grin. "Now now... It is not polite to ask a lady her age." She chuckled.

"OK, do not be surprised. Because of my age, experience, and my blood, that being blood of the first brood, meaning after the King and Queen, I am much stronger than an average vampire. I am roughly 10,000 years old... about the age of Kratstros I would guess. My sire, who was my husband for many years, was, well, you saw from the note on the brick... Marius."

Aeschia chuckled, she knew he would go bug-eyed.

"I do not recall the last time I have been to France, that is why I asked, as it may be as foreign to me by now.

"I know where the good lodging, food, and art is, as well as the nicest places to take a walk. It is a beautiful city."

Aeschia brought her champagne glass up... "I would like to propose a toast... To one cathartic brick coming down from your wall!" Aeschia smiled seductively as they clicked glasses.

After they each drank, Aeschia brushed her hand along one side of Malthazius' face, turned, and gave him a long, slow, passionate kiss. One that took her breath away.

She smiled with smoldering eyes. "I am a bit spontaneous like that... I hope it does not bother you.

"To be honest, I was hoping you would make love to me tonight." She looked into his eyes and kissed him long and passionately again, this time she let out a slight moan.

Aeschia looked at him seductively, "Is that something you would be interested in?" she asked, as she traced his face with her fingernail.

"A little forward, but then again, you are not the type to remain silent." Malthazius kissed her. "Yes, but just remember that I'm not in it merely for the carnal pleasure, though it is a nice part."

"I can't remember my own age. I was 28 last time I checked, but I haven't kept track of dates since I started hunting. For me, it has been one encounter after another, villages that I have seen mauled, and countless people dead. I have known the horrors of the night, and fought them as a beacon for good, though it has been long since I have received support from those that I have helped.

"Interesting isn't it. People so often cry out for something to help them, when often they only need to overcome their own fear to solve their own problems."

Aeschia turned red and moved back away from Malthazius. "I-I am sorry. That was rude of me." How could I have blurted something like that right out? I am probably pushing him away.

"I am not in it for the carnal pleasure either. I-I care about you. That was terrible of me to blurt out like that. Sometimes we kindred experience things differently." Aeschia said to Malthazius, obviously upset at her blunder. She turned away as she was so humiliated tears were welling up in her eyes.

Aeschia looked away and out the window. "I am surprised you were not surprised at my age. It is quite rare, and I have seen the world grow, dynasties come and go, wars of all sorts. I have seen it all. Horrors of all sorts. But it is not all hell, or we would not be here. I am so different from most kindred. I am not sure why unless it has to do with the fact that Marius showed me a way to live in concert with mortals." She paused, still looking out the window, as tears were now running down her face.

"Yes, I am surprised you are not shocked at my age. Very. I do not think I have ever told anyone who did not react in some way, but you did not react at all... no questions about the history of the world..." Aeschia's voice trailed off. Malthazius was not even interested in her past at all.

"Maybe this is a mistake Malthazius. I can help you tear down that wall, but you seem to have no interest in me or my life. You say you were 28 or so and it has been a few years and the things you have seen. I am ten thousand years old. Imagine how much more I have seen, yet you have no interest." Aeschia sighed, still looking out the window. She wiped away her tears.

"The more we talk, the more I think I could be anybody with power to help you with your work..."

Aeschia looked him in the eyes. "Malthazius, sometimes I do not understand you... does your wall include not caring about anyone else but yourself and your work?"

"Sorry. I guess that was a little cold. I didn't want to pry, and I have been taught how old the world is. Ten Thousand years is a lot yes, but you did tell me about Marius, and of him I have heard. Rumors, different names, and the sort. But I do believe that means you would have seen civilization's birth at the Fertile Crescent.

"I have questions, but I would never ask them of you unless it came to it. I have accounts of the history of the world, but the questions I have for you are more personal, and I am still uncomfortable asking them. It's not that the wall means I don't care for others, it's just that I don't like to offend others by being too forwards myself.

"Please, you have done nothing wrong. I suppose we have to expect some stumbling blocks, after all, you and I come from nearly opposing sides of the same world. I would have preffered to wait until we were somewhere more private, but if you desire it, then I do have questions for you now."

"We can wait." Aeschia replied. "Remember I told you that you could ask anything and not to be uncomfortable around me. If it is something I would rather not answer, I will say so.

"So, you consider it offensive when people are too forward; thus I must have offended you terribly. I am so sorry. I do not usually blurt out things like that anyway. I do not know why I did. So I see I have seriously offended you." Tears welled up in Aeschia's eyes and she turned away and looked out the window again.

"I am very sorry, please accept my apology. I am completely humiliated as well." She kept her head facing out the window. She did not want Malthazius to see the tears running down her face.

One thing she was unfamiliar with was offending people. Such a statement was not considered forward in her experience, however, Malthazius might just not care for her in that way... the way he mentioned "carnal pleasure", as opposed to caring for her.

I wonder if he does care for me? Perhaps he does not. Not in a romantic sense, not the way I feel about him. That must be it. He, being so cold the morning after, never complimenting me on my appearance. No man has ever failed to compliment me when I was all dressed up... the lack of affection, physical or verbal. How could I be so stupid? He needs a partner and I fit the bill, he also needs help with his psychological issues, and "carnal pleasure is a nice plus". I am an idiot. Wall or not, he does not see me as anything more than a partner on a quest. Aeschia finally figured it out. She had fallen for someone who had not fallen for her. This would be one painful journey if she could make it.

Aeschia had never been in the position of falling for someone who had not fallen for her. It was the other way around most the time.

This really hurts.

Aeschia wiped her tears, although it was obvious she had been crying, and turned and filled her champagne glass.

She gave Malthazius a sad smile. "I think I understand now." She took a deep breath and sighed. Aeschia could not get the look of hurt off her face.

She faked a smile. "Here we are Malthazius... Paris."

Aeschia directed Morty to a hotel Le Palais. As they stopped, Morty opened the door for them and the door attendant and bellhop retrieved their bags. They would check in here.

Walking in, they found a stunning lobby with beautiful art, carpet, and marble pillars with plants on top.

"Then you aren't the same person I knew." He replied slightly sadly. "And it's actually a no-time thing."
Tyranna nodded solemly "Yes. I've changed dramatically over time. So have you. You're much more...soft spoken then you were when I met you."

"So do you really want to talk about 'old' times, or are you more interested in finding out if I present a threat to your employer?" He asked as he considered her words and found that he probably was more soft-spoken than the centuries prior.

She smiled at him slyly. "A little of both."

"Ah, well just to assure you now and get it over with, I'm not." He commented

Malthazius was turmoil inside of himself. He barely noticed the hotel so much as he was concentrating on Aeschia. She seemed, no, was upset, and he had done it. Could it be?

Stop this. It won't go anywhere Malthazius. You can't love her. You're falling, and you had better catch yourself quickly.

And yet, why is she so caring. I've offended her, and she has plenty of reason and oppurtunity to leave me. She came back for me. She has stayed with me. And she has forgiven me readily. Could Aeschia still love the way humans do, and could she love me?

That isn't the issue here. Malthazius, YOU are the one that cannot love the way humanity does. You protect them, but must give yourself up to do so. You are cursed, and must find redemption with God. This is only the path of temptation Malthazius.

Is it? Is Aeschia truly that evil? She is not affected by holy symbols, she could touch the blade, and she cares for me. Is it possible for me to love her as she does me?

Be wary this path to follow, Malthazius. If she loves you, how would you return it? You are her opposite, one that hunts her kind with joy. And if she doesn't, you could fall into her trap, and die a damned man. How far are you willing to go for this one, Malthazius?

As far as I can, and beyond.

"Aeschia, this place is wonderful. I fear that I have been far too unkind, and I cry your pardon. When we have our rooms, can we head there immediately? I desperately need to speak with you, away from ears and eyes."

"Of course, Malthazius." She replied.

As they reached the check in desk, Aeschia pulled out a large sum of French curency and gold.

"Two of your best top floor suites please. One of them perhaps across from the other... with no windows, if possible." Aeschia smiled at the desk clerk, and from the sum of the tip was only two happy to comply.

"We do have two of our best top floor suites, one across from the other, the center one, having no windows. So many people sleep in after partying in Paris that many have requested no windows so they may sleep all day." He grinned.

"Here are your keys. Follow the bell hop. I am sorry it will be a bit of a climb," he apologized.

"That is fine," Aeschia replied.

As Aeschia and Malthazius walked to the stairs after the bellhop, the man behind the desk took particular note of the woman's curves.

"I hope your room will be satisfactory... I am sure it will be Mathazius. It seems to be more than adequate so far." Aeschia smiled, trying to hide her sadness.

He has every right to be hesitant. Malthazius has spent his last few years murdering kindred. He would feel it was wrong. I am sure of it. We would make a strange pair, but I feel that although it may be quite odd, and there were bound to be conflicts, we could make it work. However he does not want to. I should just stop ruminating about it.

"Malthazius, where would you like for us to speak in private? Your room, windows open, would be nice, and I am quite sure there will be a separate sitting room. However, if you have a different idea, it is up to you."

As the two climbed, Malthazius took note of the decor. Impressive, lavis, and for the welathy. There was probably symbolism to all of it, but he had never taken the time to appreciate art. It was lost on him.

Does she know? The question crreped up, and with it, the answer.

She will soon enough. Hopefully, I will as well.

"My room then. We can let the breeze is. Will we have anything to drink in there? I don't know the customs of French hotels."

"There are most likely several types of wines and champagnes on ice to choose from. If you do not want what is there, it can be ordered. If you pick the right French wine, it can indeed be a treat." Aeschia smiled.

They reached their rooms and the bellhops brought their luggage into their respective rooms. They were quite lavish. Brick number one for Malthazius.

After unpacking a few things and freshening up, as well as drinking some blood she carried in a flask, she crossed the hall and knocked on Malthazius' door. His room was likely to be even more lavish than hers, with the window views.

I wonder what he wants to discuss... Oh... I bet it is history. He did mention that earlier. I hope I do not appear morose. Aeschia mused.

she nodded. "I had guessed. You don't seem to have malicious intent on your mind." Tyranna looked at him meaningfully. "If I may ask, what EXACTLY is he blackmailing you with? The Raphael I knew...well, it took a lot to faze." She looked at him curiously.

"He was threatening to kill people." He replied, "And likewise may I ask why you choose to work for Boaz?"

"Aeschia, I have to apologize," Malthazius said, sitting down, or rather, falling into the chair. "I have been less than honest with you, and you deserve better than that.

"I am not the best at putting this inot words. When I said that I was in your trust at the Tremere house, that was nothing to what I must say to you now. For reasons that I ether can not or choose not to explain, I have developed feelings for your that goes beyond the 'comrade' and 'mistress' relationships. I don;t know if it is the right word, or the comparison is proper, but understand that the last time I felt anything akin to what I felt for you, I was human, and betrothed. You remind me of the times I spent with Adrianna, but more so, you make me feel the way I did when I had her, and this occurs only when my mind turns to you. tell me, am I simply living in a reverie, or some distant memory of the past, or do I care for someone more than anything else in this world?"

She sighed heavily. "I chose to work for him because...he befriended me. He took me in when I most needed help, taught me the nessecities of being a non mortal entity and the skills to tap into a person's thoughts and to control my own powers. All the things I was never fully taught under your care, becuase you and I went our separate ways after...two weeks I believe?" She smiled now, blue eyes danceing. "And I didn't even know what kind of power he withheld at the time..."

"I never taught you for a reason." He replied, "Nor did I teach you how to live your life. Nor do I suspect he's taught you how to utilize your full potential."

She shook her head. "No. I have to learn that bit on my own and I'm learning slowly, but efficently." Tyranna folded her arms across her chest, long nails drumming against her arm. "I am not 'adult' by a demons standards, and I don't expect I'll grow out of that phase for the next two or three centuries."

"Do you know something I don't?" He asked as he personally knew very little outside of folklore of demons, which was somewhat at odds with him being one, but that was part of his problem with being born on Earth.

She rose an eyebow. "You mean you don't know?" She smiled an odd smile. "Well...this was unexpected. Alright. Demons have a longer life span than humans correct? And while they go through the same stages as a humna, they appear young for well over the span of a millenia, because of the potent and erethral(sp?) blood that runs in our veins. We age much slower than a human, and by the time one of us is three millenia old, we will look forty five. Look at it as the process of an unborn child. In the first five months, growth is rapid. Translate those to years, and you get the adolesance period. Growth is complete and you live your life as a physically mature being. In the last four months of pregnancy, growth is slow, and it is usually simply to gain weight. In our years, that is the rest of our growth period. Is this more clear?"

"How would I, I've never been to hell, or even seen any relative." He commented, "And are you saying I'm about twenty two, and you're about eight?"

She laughed richly. "No no. Physically, I'm past adolesance, as are you. You LOOK twenty-two if you were a human. What I'm saying is that, for a demons mentality, I'm not as 'mature' as yourself, and in that sense makes me 'young', even though I've seen my share of battles, men in armour and their steel weapons. Physically, we look young and naive, giving us the advantage, though most demons know better. I have not lived up to my full potential yet, and in saying so, I am still young. You are as well, but you're more of an adult demon than I am."

"Ah." He replied, "Thought it appears either we have different potentials, it has gone a different way or perhaps we're a different species of demon, but the way I look at things is different than you."

"Malthazius, I... am at a loss. I hope you truly feel that way about me." Aeschia paused. "I do not believe you are reliving a fantasy. I am too different for that. Also, I care deeply for you."

"I know you said you do not like people to be blunt, but I have to say I am falling for you hard and fast. I have not experienced anything like this before. I truly care deeply about you. I truly want to help you with your wall. It is important to me that you are happy." She sighed and looked up at him.

"To me, this has seemed like a one way relationship. I have felt that you do not have any feelings for me other than a comrade helping on a mission. I have never experienced this before. It was like a knife in my heart. The pain was worse than physical pain.

"It is a strange relationship considering who and what we are, but think of what we can learn from each other. This is why I do not think you are reminising.

"I have not forgotten my humanity. My ex-husband and sire taught me to live among mortals, which many kindred despise. I like mortals. I only feed on the evil." Aeschia felt like she was giving a speech.

"I think our differences may be what attracts us to each other; yin and yang."

"Malthazius, I am falling for you and care for you deeply. I cannot think of anything I care for more. I just set myself up for rejection, which I never experienced, but I hope we will be honest with each other and trust each other, and do not hold back information from each other.

"By the way, I am not going to turn you!" Aeschia chuckled and looked kindly into Malthazius' eyes.

"I don't think that you would be able to." So you're in love, fire boy. Congrats.

"Aeschia, you have made me a very happy man. I am truly sorry. I did not know your feelings for me, and in our respective situations, that prevented me from allowing you to truly know my feelings.

"Thank you for putting your faith in me, Aeschia. You have stayed with me for no other reason than that, and I thank you.

"Now, as for your life. You do not mind it when I am blunt, so blunt I shall try to be. First, how did you meet your sire?"

"Well, my sire, and husband for many years is one of the first brood. We both lived in Italy and we met at a formal dance. I lived a life of luxury, and, of course, he was probably the wealthiest man in the world... May still be. We hit it off, and eventually got married.

"We lived an opulent lifestyle, however, we lived alongside mortals. Marius taught me to kill only the evil. Churches, beautiful churches are all over Italy, and I had been going to all kinds of them even before meeting Marius. The architecture alone hypnotized me. I found I could go into churches, and that holy items did not affect me after I was turned. They did not affect Marius either, although he remained a pagan.

"Crazy, but I am a Christian. When I am finally gone, do I go... to hell? Am I evil incarnate and the devil's child?" A tear ran down her face.

"Do not get me wrong, I can at times be like any vampire, however, there are enough criminals and such that there is no need to kill innocents. However, I am not to be their judge, am I? I do not have a choice. Judge, jury, executioner."

She paused and poured some champagne.

"And now that note, calling Marius and I such horrid things... Thank you for saving my life Malthazius. I have never been hunted before. My fangs do not protrude, they retract... I just do not know."

"That is how we met, and that is where I am at I guess." Aeschia leaned back in her chair.

"You know of the British courts then? I am impressed indeed. Tell me, you are a Christian, yet you would have been on this planet for over eight thousand years before that Jewish carpenter walked the sands of Palestine. When did you convert?"

"When I saw some things he did with my own eyes. A good share of the bible is not completely fact per se, but more of a way to live a good life. However, the miracles are true. I saw him cure lepers and such things.

"I would not say I am a practicing Christian... I am more spiritual/eccumenical, however I have seen Christ, so I know he existed."
Aeschia replied.

"Also, I have known Kindred who have seen the other side... been to hell. I certainly hope that my status as kindred does not automatically make me a servant of the devil and condemn me to hell. None of us know how that really works."

"God created man in His own image. At one time, you were human. Are you still in God's image? That is the real question. If you are, then, as a free-willed individual, you should be able to get to heaven, or least purgatory for a little while, if you live a life of morality, and ask for His mercy, which is free and boundless. If you are not, being a perversion that some would hold you as, there still remains the belief that True Death would restore you to your humanity. I can not tell you whether you are damned.

"As for the note, and defending you, well, as a gentleman I am obligated to defend any woman, though it would have been unnecessary for one such as you. It was more the manly pride deal, for I could never let a woman defeat an entire crowd of burly men." Malthazius smiled at his remark.

"So, Jesus. Was he ever able to make a decent dining set?"

Aeschia laughed. "I never saw his carpentry." She grinned.

"You know... I do not believe God created man in his own image. I believe god may be a force. When we see him in Heaven, he appears as something we understand. I also believe in life in the rest of the universe. It would be arrogant to think that we are the only ones here, or the most intelligent. I believe God would appear to them in their image. I believe he can be whatever he wants to be. I believe him to be a spirit." Aeschia explained.

"A little unorthadox, however, it makes more sense to me than anything else. Is Jesus this spirit's son? Yes, I would have to say.

"I wanted to tell you that it was a real treat to see you work your pyro powers. To be able to shape fire like that is art! It was very beautiful, however I would not have wanted to be on the receiving end." Aeschia chuckled.

"Now, tell me the truth, is a brick breaking yet?"

"I would say that a battering ram has broken through. You are truly the most wonderful person that I have ever met, Aeschia."

Malthazius poured himself some wine. "Ugh, I don't think that French wine is for me. Unless this is something entriely different. Which," he said, reading the bottle, "it is. Remind me never to pick up an amateur German's wine again."

"I am surprised they let a German wine into the country! France is the wine and champagne center of everything.

"Try this," Aeschia opened a bottle of a true French brut Champagne, poured some into a crystal glass and handed it to Malthavius. "I think you will find it exponentially better." Aeschia smiled.

"What did you do? Just grab the first bottle you saw?" She chuckled.

"One more thing... are you going to be doing pushups off a chair for the next hour now?" Aeschia grinned.

She became a bit quieter. "Thank you for the compliment Malthazius. I feel the same way about you." She smiled lovingly at Malthazius.

Malthazius smiled. "Depends. Want to see the weapons show again? Or do you prefer a more modest approach?" Malthazius tried the French wine. "Yes, this is far better. I guess I did only reach for the first bottle available. Tastes like camel piss compared to this."

"Well, my point is that if we are going to talk, it is easier when you are not working out." Aeschia grinned.

"Your room is much nicer than mine. The panoramic windows. That is what you get for having to have complete darkenss during the day."

Aeschia smiled at Malthazius, the knife in her heart replaced by a feeling of warmth.

"Don't worry, I won't. Though if you do want another free viewing of the show, just ask.

"As for the windows, come, I want to show you something." Malthazius moved to the window, beckoning Aeschia to join him.

Aeschia smiled slyly at Malthazius. "I may want another viewing of the show..." She looked at him seductively.

They walked to the window as Aeschia awaited what it was Mathazius wanted to show her.

I feel... different... as if I am supposed to feel this way, when I am with Malthazius. She smiled to herself.

"What do you see?" he asked.

"Paris."

Malthazius stretched his hand just infront of Aeschia's eyes, blocking her view. "How about now?"

"Nothing but your hand."

Concentrating on the view below him, he noted every light, every color. The image, to scale, came into his palm vibrant, yet far enough away to not burn Aeschia. "And now?"

"We vampires have heightened senses, including sight, so everything looks a bit different to us." Aeschia said as she looked out the window.

When he covered her eyes, she could see through his hand.

"Ohhhhh! Wow! How do you do that Malthazius? I can see through your hand!" Aeschia exclaimed. "How do you do that?" She asked.

"Really?" he asked, pulling his hand away. The image came with it. Then it stopped, suspended next to the real view. It was a portrait of living fire, much like the horsemen, but to a far smaller and more intricate scale.

"Since you won't be able to see Paris when you go to your bed, I thought that a living mural would substitute. It will extinguish itself when the sun rises, since then the image will shift too much for it to accomodate.

"Interesting and impressive." Aeschia smiled at Malthazius. "So what do we want to do this evening?" she asked.

"It sounds like you do not care for art museums." Aeschia chuckled.

"Do you want to just sit and talk? I mean more for you to talk. I want to know more about you. We are breaking a big wall, you know, and it will take time." Aeschia explained. "It is not as if we cannot enjoy ourselves at the same time, however, but we should try to deal with some of these things." She gave him a kind smile.

"I would like you to show your emotions more. Make a conscious effort to do so. It will be uncomfortable, but doing this while working on the experiences that isolated you will be killing two birds with one stone."

Aeschia took a sip of her wine. "First of all, would you like to order room service?" She asked.

"Second, I want you to tell me at least one experience that caused you to go further into yourself... into your self-imposed isolation."

They were sitting at a small table by the window.

"Prior to that, I want you to hold both my hands." Aeschia held onto both his hands. "I want you to look me in the eyes, and tell me various things you are thinking. And be honest. This is going to be tough, however this is serious trust and emotional work. Easy for me, very difficult for you, I would guess, unless you have begun to break another brick."

Aeschia looked directly into Malthazius' eyes while holding his hands. Her eyes showed the love she felt, the caring, and the desire to help him at any cost. Whether he could read that or not, she did not know. She refused to read his mind, as that may disrupt their work.

"After you tell me everything you are thinking, tell me what you believe I am thinking." Aeschia requested.

"First, that my little gift is unsatisfactory, and that I could have done better.

"Second, you are extraordinarily beautiful.

"Third, I am thirsty. That mural is expandable, and making it took effort.

"Fourth, you are still beautiful.

"Fifth, We need to find this Krastatros guy. He seems mean, bad-tempered, and deserving of True-Death.

"Sixth, tomorrow morning is Sunday, so I have to go to Church while you sleep.

"Seventh, you are still absolutely gorgeous, and the bed in the room just beyond that door seems really inviting." Malthazius smiled, then, concentrating, began to try to see what Aeschis was thinking.

"First, you think that I have a bad case of insanity.

"Second, you think that I am like Adonis. Sorry, that was conceited. Achilles?

"Third, I have a very bad case of insanity, brought on by severe depression.

"Lastly, you still wish that you and Marius were together."

"Malthazius... your observations are superficial. I am talking about emotions and feelings. You expressed none. This is what I want to hear. So you will have to do it again." Aeschia instructed.

"Also, your answers to what I am thinking and feeling were all wrong. All of them. Reach down to the emotional level, not the superficial. Feelings.

"Also, you never told me of an experience that helped build your wall. It seems you want to rush through everything and not take any time on anything. Slow down. Answer all the questions.

"If you look deeply into my eyes, and your emotions and feelings are 'I am thirsty,' those are not emotions or feelings. This is what I need from you. In detail, and why. And vice versa.

"All in detail... feelings and emotions, not things you have to do, etc. If that is what you see in my eyes, your feelings when you look into my eyes are that you are thirsty... well, let us just say that is one of the most insulting things I have ever heard.

"Try again." Aeschia instructed. "And I want details of feelings."

"I am sorry. I thought you wanted to know what I was thinking, and what you were thinking. It's difficult, I have never given much thought to my emotions, none in fact, until I met you.

"Here goes then.

"I care for you, I feel affection for you, and I respect you. I do not know why I do, but I do, and in doing so, I do not need to know why.

"I resent my curse, and my powers. It meant the loss of Adrianna. I don't know if I could ever replace her. But I know that I have to move on from her. I have you now, and to me, that is enough. The past is in the past, and I am here with you.

"I still have a conflict with God, but I respect him, I just wonder why he felt that I was to have and to give so much."

"As for you, you care for me. That much I can tell. Nothing else."

"You are improving. You used the word feel. I would like you to think about how you feel, conciously work on it if you must.

"The words you used: "It meant the loss of Adrianna. I don't know if I could ever replace her. But I know that I have to move on from her. I have you now, and to me, that is enough.", make me feel that I could never measure up to Adrianna in any way... that you could never love me as much as you loved her. It is the 'that is enough' part. That is what I feel after listening to your feelings.

"As for what you see in my eyes, I am quite surprised you cannot see it all. I will put myself out on a limb." Aeschia took a deep breath. "I care about you more than anything and am willing to do anything to help you in any way at any cost... and... I love you Malthazius. I am surprised you could not see that... Or is it that you do not want to see that because you do not feel the same way?" Aeschia asked.

"Also, exactly how did you end up with these powers again. Refresh my memory. I would consider them a gift. And what do these powers have to do with Adrianna?

"Remember, we are all given our own cross to bear, but never given something more than we can handle, even though it may seem like it.

"Will you answer my prior questions? It will help me understand. And you can tell me straight out if you do not love me. Honesty, remember?"

Aeschia smiled and continued to look into the pyro's eyes.

Malthazius is such a special man, although I think he could never love me as much as Adrianna. If he loves me at all. He has never used the word.

"I love you, Aeschia. It is not a matter of measuring up. You and Adrianna could not be compared, but it is the simple fact that you make me feel the same way she did, and that means I love you as I did her. She is not a threat to my affection for you. It is enough that I love you, that I honor my betrothed's memory, but that I know you are not her, and I could never ask you to be her. I do not want that. But you asked, and I answered the best that I could. I love you.

"My powers came from either God or some beast, but I do not know which. I have shown no signs of aging fo the past seven years, I can draw strength from intoxicating liquours, and I revel in the sunrise.

"My powers came the day I buried Adrianna. I should say my family, as I was still too ill to attend the funeral. That afternoon, I dragged myself to her grave, and swore against God. I was consumed by an unearthly light, and the next time I took drink, I awoke my powers. It is partially akin to your need to drink blood, but even if I am starved for alcohol my abilities are not compromised. Whether I am secretly the Devil's agent, or God's hand until he allows me to face the monster that killed Adrianna, I do not know, but I serve the Lord, and I do what I feel is righteous."

"You never said you loved me before, Malthazius." Aeschia looked at him with a smile. "I was really starting to think this was a one way love.

"I do not lose my powers if I am short on blood either. I do not have to drink as often as some kindred, and when I need blood, it is because I am hungry. Starvation takes a very very long time." She explained.

"You know, everyone who curses God does not receive some sort of power. There must be something special about you, Malthazius." She stated, smiling.

"Now, should we order room service, or go out somewhere?

"And by the way, you broke another brick by telling me you love me." Aeschia smiled happily.

"You do need to continue to tell me situations that have isolated you. This is your task... as well as being aware of feelings and expressing them."

"I realize that I never told you that I love you. I am sorry. Understand that it wasn't single situations that forced me into this solitude. It was more of habits that gradually built up so as to prevent any from gaining a foothold above me, specifically, my enemies. I am tough on the physical plane, but psychologically, I have weaknesses, so I hide them, and ensured that I was safe in my secrecy.

"As far as mundane nourishment is concerned, why not visit a Parisian wine bar, and ask for a tasting of any wines that they are offering? I am sure that we could find something, even if your memory of the city is sketchy."

ooc: I tend to write novels... most people know this already!

“Oh, a wine establishment... there are many from which to choose. They will have everything." Aeschia told Malthavius. "It is interesting to me that drinking gives you power, but it makes sense as your power is fire.

"If you get really drunk, do you turn into a huge blaze or something?" She chuckled, but she was serious. "Or do you just have to do lots of push ups and such?" Aeschia grinned. "I am partly teasing, but I am wondering if you have to keep a close watch on what and how much you drink.

"The night you first appeared and I saw you make those horses with riders out of fire... Malthazius, that was one of, if not the most beautiful things I have ever seen. I am surprised that my eyes did not pop out of my head. I was stunned." Aeschia told Malthazius, in a tone that expressed her surprise and delight.

"You have been given a gift, Malthazius." She walked up to him, put her arms around him, and looked him in the eyes. "After many years, perhaps you do not see the amazing beauty in what you do, as it is a job you must do, but it is so gorgeous, I cannot express it with words. It is too bad it cannot be preserved and put in one of those 'snooty art museums'." Aeschia smirked.
Such beauty used for such a difficult job. If that image could be locked in time, there is no way to preserve it on canvas that would ever be able to express the beauty. I feel honored to be one of the few, left alive," she grinned, "to have seen it.

"You know how old I am... although I know you will never tell anyone I am older than 27!" Aeschia laughed. "However, in all that time, through all that history and art and beauty, what you created that night is the most beautiful sight I have ever seen.

"Please remember that when you feel it to be such a burden. You may be creating the most beautiful sight in the world in all history. Think about it. I bet you never thought of what you do as extraordinary beauty.

"What you did that night is etched into my brain, and I will never forget my amazement or what I saw. I was not aware anything could be so beautiful as to not be expressed by words. And you used that beauty to save my life." Aeschia kissed him lightly on the lips. "I just want you to know that what you consider a burden and a job, has an up side that far surpasses your 'curse'. After seeing what I saw... knowing what you do? I think God blessed you."

Aeschia knew Malthazius was taking this in, but likely never considered what he did as beauty.

"On the other hand, my ex-husband and sire, who I loved deeply, lived lavishly, as I did. However, we took in kindred and kine children who were impoverished, orphans, or those to be sold as slaves and be abused, and gave them the best life and education we could, without turning the kine.

"I also learned that there were enough criminals and mortals that were cruel, that there was no need to harm an innocent. I wish all kindred were like that. We lived among mortals, which is nearly unheard of, and enjoyed their company. Right from the start, he was able to go in church, wear silver crosses, and eat garlic... the usual things that repel vampires. That was passed on to me. Perhaps it was because we were living a life where we helped people. We gave unimaginable sums of money to charities, and practiced the arts. I am fluent in almost all instruments, am not a half-bad artist, and a potter.

"You know who Marius is, the way it sounds. You see, originally he was the keeper of the King and Queen... the very first vampires, so his blood is strong, which made me very strong. My teeth, as you see, retract. As far as I know, Marius and I are two of the few whose teeth retract. There are a few of the elders as well.

"We are of the Tremere clan and at the top... like royalty. Marius is practically a god when it comes to vampires."

She paused, and stroked his face. "I am familiar with Krastros. He has been around in the past. He is one of those 'rule the world", even killing kindred types. He has had a rival, whom I believe is fighting for the same position. His name is Boaz. I know this because of some deep deep telepathy I have been working on at night. They are both extraordinarily dangerous." Aeschia took a deep breath.

"It may be to our advantage that I am kindred, as they may be more likely to trust me if we find them and set up a plan... you know... playing their side. By the way, I am blocking their thought reading for now. Not that they would care to read me. I am of no concern to them." She finished... for now.

"There is a lot more, but, you know, rattling on about 10,000 years would take a long time." Aeschia grinned and stroked his cheek with her fingers and long nails.

"I just want to freshen up prior to going out, and think of a nice place to go." She said as she walked to the bathroom. "We should walk. It is gorgeous outside. I think I will change quickly as well. Do not worry, it will not take long."

Aeschia went into the bathroom and found a full-length gown, blood red, with some black in areas. The top was a bustier and laced up the back, while the bottom was slightly clingy, with a side pleat for walking. She found some black spiked sandals adorned with rubies, and slid those on her feet... a ruby, and onyx choker with matching chandelier earrings and rings, and put her hair up into a French twist with ruby an onyx pins. Aeschia freshened her makeup and put on some perfume.

All the while, she was thinking about where they should go. Aeschia took one more look in the mirror. She was flat out stunning. She carried her cape with weapons belt attached... just in case.

She went back into the room after changing. "I have it… Vin et Champagne Extraordinaire. It is not far from here, and is a beautiful walk.

"By the way, you look very handsome tonight." Aeschia commented, looking at him slyly. "I believe I need my stick... fight off the women!" She chuckled. Malthazius did look great.

"Are you ready to go?" She asked.

Malthazius thought about what Aeschia said while she was getting ready. When she came out, he stood, offered his arm, and then, "I am ready as ever, my Lady, and shall be happy to be thine escort this evening."

As the two walked out the door, he began to answer the questions posed by Aeschia. "First, I have yet to get seriously drunk. Habit, never wanted to be slow in the head if I needed to kill something. Never thought about turning into a walking inferno. I suppose that if I fueled myself enough with the extra kick that alcohol gives, and I was drunk and allowed my temperature to rise, then yes, I could hit flash-point. Let's hope that I keep at least one brick up tonight and watch my alcohol consumption.

"As for it being a gift, then why did I get my abilities when I decried the Name of God? I felt only anger, rage, and a thirst for vengeance against the world. I was in a state of sin, and yet God blessed me? That isn't how He operates.

"So, you are royalty. Just who are the King and Queen? And I thought Cain, the first murderer and the first committer of Fraternicide was the first Vampire."

"No, I am not royalty. My ex-husband tended to the King and Queen. The first kindred ever." Aeschia took Malthazius arm and smiled.

"We are considered royalty because of our lives, my husband's status, and mine now, our age, and everyone knows us. We are highly respected." Aeschia stated. "We are well known in all the clans... and the mortals, as you might have guessed by that lovely letter, delivered by rock courier." She shook her head.

"The first King and Queen, well the names may have changed over the years, but they remained in suspended animation and had to be taken care of by Marius. 'Cain's' wife turned Marius against his will and he was forced to guard them. Therefore, he is of the first brood and my blood is first brood. Some call his wife Akasha. He still has to go to their hideout and check on them several times a year. If they die, we all die. All of us.

"I truly trust you by telling you this, and I trust you will tell no one else." Aeschia looked at Malthazius.

"As for your abilities, perhaps they were to help you get over your loss... a gift. God does not often put his hand in the fate of anyone, if at all. HE did not have anything to do with her death. Jesus may have given you the gift. We could theorize about this forever." Aeschia said.

As they passed an alley close to the wine and champagne establishment, Aeschia caught a glimpse of a man further down the alley with a knife at a terrified woman's throat, trying to attack her.

"Wait here Malthazius, please. Will you hold my cape please?" she asked.

Aeschia walked down the alley. "Why do you not pick on someone who is more of a challenge?" Aeschia mocked the man with the knife. "Let her go now!"

"No problem!" The rapist said after seeing Aeschia. "I'd rather do you anyway!"

"Run, ma'am. I will be fine."

The woman seemed reluctant to leave Aeschia there. "Trust me,” Aeschia told her. "He's going to get a taste of his own medicine. Go home." The woman ran out of the alley and she was gone.

By then the rapist had shoved Aeschia against the wall of the building in the alley and had the knife to her neck.

"Malthazius stay back and do nothing!" Aeschia yelled again.

"If you so much as tear this dress you are a dead man. Well, you are a dead man anyway." Aeschia chuckled... "So does this make you feel like a man?

"You are no man. You are pathetic. You want to terrorize women."

The rapist had still not done anything, likely a bit stunned that his victim would talk that way to him.

"Have you ever been terrorized the way they have? Felt that fear?" Aeschia asked him. "You are going to get a lesson in what you have been doing prior to your demise." Aeschia laughed manically.

"You don't know who you're dealing with bitch!"

Just as he was going to stick the knife in her neck, he flew at breakneck speed and slammed about four feet against the opposite wall of the alley. He stuck to the wall and could not move at all. His knife flew to her and she caught it by the handle.

The criminal looked terrified.

Aeschia walked up to him slowly, her eyes turning solid red, laughing evilly.

"What? Are you afraid now?" Aeschia asked as she walked slowly to the other side. She opened her mouth, protruded her fangs, and hissed at him.

He opened his mouth and started to scream but his mouth was slammed shut. His eyes were as big as saucers.

"You will never hurt another woman again; I can give you that guarantee." Aeschia grinned and laughed a horrid laugh again.

She slid him down to where his feet were on the ground; however, he was still plastered to the wall. Aeschia showed an evil grin, with her glowing red eyes.

Aeschia bit into the artery in his neck, and began to drink. As she drank the warm blood, she saw his life. He was nothing but a ruthless killer. The warm blood was already making her features look more lifelike. Her face was not so white, and she looked mortal. She drank him almost dry, then backed away from him and telekinetically, took the knife and decapitated him.

She did not want to ruin her dress. Not a drop of blood on her. She used her telekinesis to wipe the fingerprints off the knife onto his pants. Then she walked up to him and put two fingers on the bite marks, and they disappeared.

Aeschia did not have a drop of blood on her. Not on her face or clothing.

She walked back to Malthazius. "I am sorry you had to see that. I am not actually as terrifying as all that, but with someone cruel as him, I try to scare him or her actually. They deserve it." Aeschia explained.

"You are not upset, are you Malthazius? It is not a pretty sight.

"When you feed on criminals, it tends to be messy, rather than a more or less, willing victim. Please do not think I am evil. I like to make those who made so many suffer think I am." Aeschia looked at Malthazius.

"Are you OK?"

Malthazius had watched the scene with a very hard eye. He had no sympathy for the now dead man. Scum like him had to be dealt with, and while he was no mind reader, he could see that his was something better left five feet under the ground.

"He got what he deserved. Allow me to dispose of the body." Malthazius raised his hand, concentrated on the man, and what he wanted to happen, then snapped his fingers. It was done. The body had spontaneously combusted, and would burn from the inside out, with the airway provided by Aeschia supplying the needed gasses. It was low key, efficient, and would leave only a pile of ash by morning, attributable to things like fire-place clearing or cleaning a forge.

He offered his hand back to Aeschia. "You look more lovely than before, a truly righteous angel of vengeance. Shall we go on then?"

"Thank you Malthavius. I prefer not leaving bloodless bodies around. People get suspicious." Aeschia smiled at him and took his arm, her fangs gone.

"Here we are," she said as they stood in front of Vin et Champagne Estraordinaire.

"I think we are in for a treat, and I feel much better after feeding," she whispered to Malthazius.

"I hope I do not have to use any of those techniques on any women trying to steal you away from me. You look gorgeous!" Aeschia told him.

He does look fantastic. Thankfully I have eyes that would make them jump through the roof. She chuckled to herself.

"I am looking forward to talking some more." Aeschia smiled. "And why do we not let the wine sommelier choose the wine or champagne for us? He or she knows far more than either of us."

As they were walking in, a couple, Tremere, bowed, and said "Lady Aeschia". Aeschia smiled and nodded.

The entire room was staring at the couple. The two of them looked as if out of the most beautiful painting every painted.

They were seated at a corner booth with a candle in the center and an orchid. "Your sommelier will be with you soon," the man who seated them bowed.

"Thank you." Aeschia smiled.

"What do you think Malthazius?" Aeschia asked.

"As I said, outside my comfort zone, but pleasant nonetheless. I must say, that with the recent addition of the rosy colour in your face, you look quite lovely with that dress. You were beautiful before we left, but the blood doesn't give you that vixen look, and I truly enjoy it.

"Now, let us save business until after tonight. Tell me, of all the people that you have met over the years, whom do you think was the greatest sculptor, and why?"

"OK, FYI... I have been called vixen even when I have not gorged myself on blood. It is called makeup." Aeschia chuckled.

"I am more than happy to leave business for another day. And I want to thank you for supporting my ideology and not getting upset at the carnage, but then again, why would you?" She smiled seductively. "Some, no matter what they do, for example what you do, do not like to see the type of thing I did tonight... the terror-torture, blood and such, and my eyes turning different shades, but you understood perfectly, and I am grateful and grateful for your help in the spontaneous combustion of the evidence. Thank you."

Aeschia leaned over the booth and brushed his lips with hers.

"On another note... Tell you all the people I met over the years?! No time! It works better if you ask me specific queries, such as sculptor. The best, not so far back. Michelangelo. By far. Why, you will have to see for yourself. He studied the human body to such a degree that his sculpting was perfect. I knew him and have a few of his pieces as well as paintings. Perhaps some day I can show them to you.

"Now, a brick from you... we will smash it! Remember to always try to consciously think of your feelings and express them... at least to me. Remember... you can tell me anything." Aeschia smiled kindly and lovingly.

"I've done the torture thing myself a few times. The night before I met you, a vampire, weak, miserable scum, tried to sneak up on me. This guy thought he was a god simply because he was a vampire. He thought he could make me into a ghoul, and that it would be a great joy for me. He couldn't even fly. I beat him physically first, then I destroyed his mind, simply by holding flame in front of his face and asking him if it felt the same way it felt for me. Then I torched him. I left him pain, and he felt it righteously. I have walked the dark, Aeschia, and I am no stranger to the more direct ways of doing things.

"Now, another query. Greatest writer that you have met, and why."

"Greatest writer? That is a tough one," Aeschia replied.

"There are so many, but to be honest with you, and I do not think most people think of him as a writier as opposed to someone who writes proverbs: Definitely Confucious. Short, and correct.

"I loved listening to him. How he came up with those proverbs so consistantly, I will never know. A couple times we sat in a field by a river, and he would come up with these proverbs. They really are a good way to live your life." Aeschia smiled.

"As far as actual writers, I could not pick one. I like Shakespeare. He comes to mind. His writings, turned mostly to plays and such, were tragic, but not to far from real life travails."

"My turn!" Aeschia grinned. "Give me another brick... this time from your younger days, and we will smash it." She smiled kindly.

The sommellier showed up at their table and listed off their best wines and champagnes that evening.

"Should we let him choose, Malthazius? After all, he is the sommellier?" Aeschia said with a twinkle in her eye. "Price is no issue.

"Yes, let us do that!" Aeschia turned to the sommellier. "We would like you to choose which one you feel is the best this evening. Cost is no object." She said grinning.

"And if I choose something you hate?" he asked, obviously nervous choosing something for customers whose tastes he was unfamiliar with.

"In that case, I will buy us something different after my companion and I discuss it. We trust you." Aeschia grinned making him even more nervous.

"Just choose what you think is best, and we will have a bottle of that."

"Alright madam," he bowed and left the table.

"Hope he has good taste!" Aeschia chuckled.

"OK, now, give me your hands and look in my eyes. I want you to get used to this. Something traumatic that caused you isolation when you were younger. Do not worry, I have my sledge hammer."

"I too hope that the sommelier has good taste. Preferably, non-German wine tastes.

"When I was young, I traveled to England, and when I was there I witnessed my first execution. The man was a Catholic priest that had gone to France for training before returning to England to serve those of our faith. When he was discovered, he was put on trial, and executed as a traitor, having been hung, drawn, and quartered. He was innocent of everything save serving his God, and for that, they tortured him. As foreigners, and nobles, my family had diplomatic status, and were thus free to practice our faith, but it was then that I got my first taste of blood spilt for God. I rarely spoke for a week. Since then, I grew wary of those that proclaim the greatness of their God without living the message that they preach."

"That is very sad. To witness an execution... a drawing and quartering no less, as a child." Aeschia was becoming a bit emotional... teary eyed and angry.

"Those bastards! However, the Catholics are no saints either. The Inquisition. That is serving God?" The first pope and his life of debauchery, all the politics... and the change in beliefs over time. If something is supposed to be truth, how can it change over time?" She shook her head. "That is why my beliefs are different... non-denominational and such.

"Over time, I have seen so many wars; fought in many as well, save the religious wars... and most wars are religious or ethnic. Fact. It is just idiotic. And it makes me furious." Aeschia took a deep breath and relaxed.

"So, how did this incident affect you? Feelings, actions, all of it. This brick is hard to break." She explained.

"And by the way, there is no German wine in France! That would be blasphemy!" Aeschia laughed.

"The Inquisition started simply as priests trying correct errors in doctrine. It wasn't until Isabella got involved that things really started to take off. Also, it should be noted that in these most recent wars, the Protestants have done worse than the Catholics. Either way, it taught me one thing, and one thing only: Never trust a preacher that isn't willing to die a humble death for his God. Some are just glory hounds seeking martyrdom, but the man I saw was peaceful about his death, wishing it wasn't true, but accepting what was to happen."

"The Catholics are no less guilty than the Protestants. They participated of their own will.

"Also, the Catholic church runs more on politics than doctrine. If you had seen the evolution from the beginning, you would realize that. I am not saying any other organized religion is any better. Only the American Indians... who believe in The Great Spirit. They are closer to God than any other 'organized' religion. This is why I am ecumenical.

"You do not follow the doctrine of your church. You are Catholic, yet you have sex prior to marriage... This is a sin in the Catholic church. Sex for procreation only is the doctrine. It is ridiculous. How many people could you call hypocrites on that alone?" Aeschia asked.

"I am not judging you at all Malthavius. I love you, and without that part of our ability to express our love, it would strain our relationship.

"I do believe we have more work on this brick, Malthavius."

She continued to hold his hands and look into his eyes.

"I love you so much Malthavius. I know it is strange and happened quickly, but it has, and I believe we are blessed." Aeschia smiled and brushed her lips against his soft lips.

The sommellier came back with a vintage Brut Champagne. "I hope you enjoy it. It is considered one of the best, if not the best in the world, but that does not mean it appeals to everyone."

He popped the cork and poured them each a glass, waiting to see if they approved.

Aeschia took a sip. "Marvelous!" she exclaimed. "Wonderful choice sir!

"What do you think Malthavius?"

Malthazius nearly spit it out, but resisted, thankfully. "Marvellous. I have never tasted a richer champagne in my entire life. My compliments to your taste," he said to the sommelier.

"I know how the Church is based on politics. Every religion is. I just have a dislike for certain Protestants because they demonstrate the evils of pride and murder more than most. Mind you, I don't hate all Prostestants, just as I have little love for dertain Catholics, and I suppose Jews and Muslims as well. I simply stated that I do not trust preachers that have pride in what they do to the point of seeking glory for serving God. That was what Jesus taught us to not do. 'And when you pray, go to your inner room, and close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father that sees you in secret will repay you.' Those that give a damn about religion without a drop of feeling for spirituality are the truly lost. To me, Calvin is a sinner, and those that have false pride in their salvation are the damned. Those that recognize the abundance of God's love, that our free will allows us to attain that which is given freely, namely, Mercy, they are saved."

Petruzzio carried the bottle and the glasses over to his table, with his saddlebags tossed over one shoulder. He sat down with a heavy clanking noise in one of the corner booths whilst he waited for the barman to have a moment free from his customers. He placed his helmet and rifle against the wall beside him and removed one of the heavy metal gauntlets throwing it on the table with a clatter, before pouring a glass of wine for himself and sipping it slowly with his eyes closed. When opposite him he heard a grunt as someone leaned heavily on his table. Opening his eyes he saw one of the men that had been near the door when he had arrived here.

"Who are you stranger and why have you come here?"

Petruzzio smiled slightly and set his glass carefully down on the table before speaking.

"I am Petruzzio Romano, servant of our Lord, and Hunter in the Darkness of all creatures that curse the earth with their evil presence."

The man sneered, his broken teeth and foul breath hitting Petruzzio like a wave, he kept his face calm as the man spoke.

"Hunter aye? Hunter of Vampires maybe? What good is a scrawny thing like you against those blasphemous devils? What use is that gun you carry around? Best you leave stranger before you end up meeting our Lord prematurely!"

Petruzzio reached for his glass and took a sip from it calmly reaching for a large pouch in his saddlebag. Setting his glass back down on the table he smiled a beatific smile at the man, whilst he undid the bag, and then poured its contents out with an uneasy clattering noise. The mans eyes looked down briefly and then back up with a look of shock as he stumbled away slightly from the pile of elongated canine teeth on the table before him.

"These are the teeth of every Vampire I have killed, almost two hundred in total. I have killed many a Werewolf, and other more foul and vicious creatures. And I have come hence to add more teeth to that collection Sir, and to ensure that the Blight of Satan on this world is removed, one creature at a time."

The man stumbled away, alook of horror and awe on his face. Petruzzio gathered the teeth back into the pouch before placing it back in his saddlebag. Reaching for his glass again he leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes once more, sipping his wine as he waited for the barkeep.

"You summed it up very well Malthazius. It is about spirituality and how you live your life, not whether or not you show up in a particular building on Sundays... thus I am non-denominational, but Christian, because I have personally seen him perform miracles." Aeschia smiled.

"Malthazius, be honest. Remember, we are going to work on honesty?" Aeschia grinned. "You hate the champagne do you not?" She chuckled, her eyes twinkling.

"We can get something else for you. It is not a problem." Aeschia grinned.

"Ah." He replied, "Thought it appears either we have different potentials, it has gone a different way or perhaps we're a different species of demon, but the way I look at things is different than you."
"As things should be." She said softly, gripping the handle of her staff sword tighter. "The world wouldn't have problems if we all thought the same, no would we?"

"That is what Krastatros wishes, and if I don't miss my guess, Boaz as well, thought the world would have problems if we all thought as one." He commented

"It's good, just very good. I have never tasted any champagne even approaching this in terms of quality. A little overwhelming, that's all.

"As to why I show up at a particualr building on Sundays, simple. I like to be amongst people that I protect, though I must remain isolated for my protection. I am still a Catholic, and I follow their teachings more than any other demomination, so I go to the Mass. And I believe that there should always be a day set aside for one's spirit, to rest, recuperate, tend to one's self, as well as to one's relationship with God. Jesus told us to love God with all our heart, all our mind, and all our strength. One day out of the week isn't much when you compare it to what He has given us." Malthazius took another, deeper sip of the champagne. It was like a shock to him, pleasant and enjoyable, but a shock nonetheless.

Aeschia laughed, "From the look on your face, I thought you hated the champagne and were going to spit it out! It is good... excellent.

"What I was referring to were people who go to church on Sundays and do not follow the doctrine of their religion... as if being in that building is the message." Aeschia replied as she sipped her champagne.

"When I was a little girl, everyone was a pagan. Jesus had not been born. Marius is still a pagan, actually. However, I was the one to see Jesus and see him perform miracles. I believe more in spirituality. Not a defined church. I also believe it is how you live your life. Marius may be a pagan, but he is a very good man.

"As to the King and Queen of kindred, there are two stories... no one really knows which is true. The one you referred to regarding Cain, and another lesser known explanation. I do not know which is true, but from what Marius has said, being their guardians ever since the King and Queen were known, he says the second explanation is correct."

Aeschia looked at Malthazius, "Apparently, the King and Queen of a country prior to, underneath, and almost exactly like Egypt, at that time, would go personally to the homes of people deemed possessed. The short version is that there was a man living alone in his home... the rest of his family had long gone. They were terrified. Furniture would fly around the room and the man trashed everything. A demon was stuck in the body of this man, which could hardly contain the it, however the demon needed host bodies. The man began drinking blood of animals that came around on a daily basis. Drained them dry.

"The King and Queen paid the man a visit and went in to see the man. Apparently they were in there a long time, and when they came out, the man was dead and the King and Queen had cuts on their bodies and their eyes and demeanor had changed.

"After they got to their palace, they began to require blood to drink daily and their servants were forced to bring in human prey for the King and Queen.

"Marius was kidnapped one night and bit by the Queen. He then required blood as well. The three of them did not require as much as the generations to follow. The closer to the Queen's blood, the less you need, the stronger you are and the stronger your blood is. My sire is Marius, which gives me strong blood."

Aeschia took another sip of champaigne and sighed. "Apparently what happened is that there was a demon inside the man the King and Queen went to see. The man was feeble and the demon needed a stronger body, and wanted to spread himself out. Think of him as a mist. The man cut them both as he was flailing around with knives, and the demon went into the body of the King and Queen, who became the first kindred. The Queen, became power-hungry and caused many wars and harmed many. The King was going into a sort of comatose state. Eventually the Queen went into the same state. Just sitting on thrones, not moving, speaking, nothing. They were almost like statues.

"Now everyone ever turned by the King and Queen, and everyone they turned, and so on, was now kindred and needed blood to survive. This has gone on for generations. The kindred were growing at more of an exponential rate.

"If the King and Queen were killed. All kindred would die, so it is said. Marius is their keeper. He and only he knows where they are, and he goes to tend to them every so many months, changing the flowers and incense in their lair, and such. I guess you can say that the demon has spread himself all through the world."

Aeschia looked at Malthazius. "I do know that Marius does tend to the King and Queen in their dormant state. Whether it was Cain or a demon, I cannot say, however, from what I know, I believe it is the demon. The name of the King is not Cain, however the name could have been changed.

"Marius is older than I, so he has been a pagan much longer, and tending to the King and Queen does not help. Either way, Marius is a wonderful man and we do not run around turning people. So many beg for it, but do not realize what it is like to never walk in the sun again."

Aeschia looked at Malthazius, "So that is the other Origin of Kindred belief. Interesting, is it not? A demonic origin. I tend to believe this version after talking to various people, but who knows."

Aeschia sat back and finished her flute of champagne. She re-crossed her legs and smiled at him, eyes smoldering.

"A very interesting story," Malthazius said. Now, if there were a way to cure Aeschia of her vampirism, and then I could track down this Queen and King, then I would finally be able to stop this whole debacle once and for all. But I wonder, would Aeschia still love me if I did this to her? No, I can not risk this.

"By your definition, then, I guess I am a spiritual Catholic." Damn, is she trying to look gorgeous, or is that just me, or her natural aura. "Just out of curiousity, how much more can I compliment your beauty before you begin to think that the truth is inspired by the alcohol?"

"Malthazius, let me say something and I am not reading your mind. Do not even consider finding the King and Queen. First of all, you likely would not survive. Secondly, many of my friends, and good people around the world would die. I could never forgive you, even if I lived, which I would not. I debated about telling you this, but I should not have. I kind of thought you would go right to that train of thought." Aeschia was rather upset. "It would be mass murder."

Aeschia laughed. "You do not have to compliment my beauty, Malthazius. You have already done so. Do you think I am fishing for compliments or something?" She smiled at him seductively.

"It was only a passing thought. Duty to my God and all that. But for you alone I would stop my hand. And yes, the way you are sitting, and looking at me, I do think you are fishing for compliments, or just trying to make sure the three waitresses know that I've got something that they could never be. Which is it?"

"Malthavius, that means so much to me... that you would not attempt such a thing as to kill us all. Many are like me, and I believe the world has far more evil mortals, and that will increase.

"Fishing for compliments? Moreover, I have not seen a waitress really... I guess I never looked." Aeschia chuckled.

"Neither... apparently I express myself with body language... often without realizing it, and sometimes realizing it."

Aeschia grinned slyly. "Did it ever occur to you that I am expressing to you the way I feel? Most of the time, whatever I may be doing that makes you say these things, is not something I do consciously." Aeschia chuckled.

"If anything, I should be watching out for the women in this place and giving them the evil eye if they keep looking at you." Aeschia smiled.

"You know, you have already made progress. You are noticing things... things that have you coming to the wrong conclusion, but at least you are thinking about what I may be feeling.

"Maybe I just want to be close to you and it shows..."

She shrugged. "Either way, were setting ourselves up for something none of us knows we're up against." Tyranna would put her hands behind her head, push her stomach and chest forward, and cracked her back soundly. Tyranna would sigh as she weny back to her former position. "That's better...I haven't done that in years." She would pause. "Have you gleaned all you can for Krastatros?"

"Except for the fact that I'm not gleaning information for Krastatros, I guess you could say so." He replied as he had watched her pop her back.

"Sorry," said Malthazius, "Normally, when it comes to body language, for me at least," at this point he began to alternate the flexing of each arm, but without any change in his voice or face, "the message is a little more direct. Years of practice. I look for the message that says 'You're dead meat,' and then I respond through body language with a 'No, but you're gonna get fried.' By that time, the other person is just starting to get fried." Malthazius finally stopped flexing his arms, but nothing in his voice or face indicated that he even knew what was going on.

"Malthazius, what are you talking about?" Aeschia looked at him trying to figure out why he said what he just said, as it made no sense in regards to her comment.

"Well, you did just say that although I am improving, I kinda did get the wrong idea about what you were saying through your body language. Just explaining why I will be a while before that improvement shows major breakthroughs and actual progress."

"I guess I am stunned at the lack of understanding you have regarding communication without words. Definitely have to work on that." Aeschia replied.

"So, what do you want to do now? Stay here, go somewhere else? she asked him. I do not know if you would like to stay for dinner or just leave after drinks."

"We could walk along the streets and look around, or stay here, whatever you would like to do." Aeschia smiled.

Malthazius could detect something in Aeschia's voice. Body language was not his strong point, but tone was, and he responded. "Aeschia, I know that voice. Yet again, you seem disappointed in me. We have yet to eat, and have had only one champagne, though I see the Sommelier coming with another bottle of something different."

Malthazius leaned forwards and kissed Aeschia, then moved to whisper in her ear. "I am too much the gentleman to allow anyone to think that I express my love in only the physical sense. Chilvary will rule me for the night, but behind closed doors, then you and I may throw off the masks that respectable society would have us wear. Remember, they would know what we both are should our actions in such a public place become...unrestrained."

"Understandable." Aeschia looked at Malthazius and smiled.

"Here comes the sommellier. He certainly chose well last time, I think we should go with whatever he suggests. What do you think?

"And by the way, I am not really hungry. I ate in the alley remember?" Aeschia chuckled.

"I will order something anyway."

Tying the mule to the post in the stables, Mary patted her ride on its neck. She remembered to hesitate before giving the stunned stable-boy a generous pay and a command to feed the mule.

Taking with her a flower basket, she skipped into the tarvern, selling flowers to the patrons with a smile. The young girl quickly became part of the background of the tavern.

Approaching the man at the table in the corner, she gave him a flower, and he slipped a note into her hand in exchange. A small gesture. She glanced at it quickly, her expression unchanged, then turn to look at the armed stranger with the musket sitting at the bar.

She approached him delicately. "Good sir, I think you would look better with this." She stuck a rose neatly into the man's chest armor and smiled pleasantly, while scanning the vampire hunter and his armaments with a professional eye.

The waiter came to take their orders. "I would like the salad, number twelve." Aeschia told him, smiling.

"Ahh, good choice madam, and for you sir?" He waited for Malthazius to place his order.

The new bottle of champagne the sommellier brought was just as good as the first.

Aeschia lifted her full flute, waved it across the room and said "Cheers to everyone!" grinning.

"What looks good to you Malthavius?" Aeschia asked as he was still perusing the menu.

"Not on purpose." She replied, though not unkindly. "What I'm telling you now is being stored in your brain, the subconcious part anyway. Krastatros, other vampires and even some demons-including myself-have something like that in common. We can penetrate the mind with your own. Resistance would be futile if you tried to hide something from a vampire. As for myself, I can hold my won against a weaker vampire, perhaps destroy their sanity, but I'd be brain dead under the influence of my Lord and Krastatros." Tyranna hesitated for a moment. "I can hypnotize you, if you like, into forgeting this conversation." She offered, not without careful consideration.

"I doubt that, at least not without my consent." He replied, "Nor do I believe Krastatros or Boaz could likewise hypnotize me."

She smiled. "It's up to you, but the definetly COULD when you least expect it, permission or no." She shrugged. "Your choice."

"Maybe. I still have my doubts though." He commented, "So why do you bring it up?"

Tyrana would begin ticking off the reasons on her fingers. "One, it cold be incredibly painful and cause brain damage and loss of sanity, two, he mayjust decide to kill you after he gives you the information, three, if he figures you haven't found anything, he may go and send someone else, or do it himself, four, I'm as loyal to Boaz as I am to my literature." She shrugged. Excuse the last reason if you will, for it's my reason, not yours, but it's there and its the truth

"That would follow if I went back to see him to tell him to stuff it, but as I do not intend to do so, it is a mute point, and if it discomforts him to roust himself to do his own grunt work then so be it. Also, would you mind explaining how loyalty to liturature is valid to this context?" He asked as his tail snaked it's way over to her far shoulder and tapped on it.

"Sir," Aeschia apologized to the waiter, "I think he needs more time to look over the menu. Could you give us a few minutes? I apologize."

Aeschia handed the waiter a large sum of money for his trouble.

"No clue what you want to eat?" she asked Malthazius.

"No, I am ashamed to admit, I cannot read the menu. I never learned French, never was exposed to it enough, can't pronounce or identify half the items in here. Can you find me a steak on here? Preferably one with a baked potato?" Malthazius turned his menu around so that Aeschia could read it for him. If he could blush, he would have, but alas, the fire thing kind of restricted the whole heating up and getting red deal.

"Aww... Malthazius do not be ashamed for not knowing a language in a country you are rarely in and do not use!" Aeschia looked at him and smiled, trying to make him understand it was no big deal.

"So for the steak... raw and you will cook it yourself?" Aeschia grinned.

"How do you want your steak done, Malthazius? By the way, most food here is done in gourmet type sauces, should I just choose one that looks good, or ask for one plain? I refuse to ask for ketchup for you! That is a bit tacky!" She grinned.

"So what kind of steak? The potatoes are also always done in a variety of ways, should I choose one for you? Perhaps with a cheese sauce of some sort? I do see that on the menu. Also, mixed vegetables, all in sauces, salad... this will all come together.

"I need to know how you want your steak done, if you want me to choose one for you, as well as your potato, and if you would like particular vegitables, or maybe go with the vegetable and salad of the day?

"I do need to tell the waiter these things. It is not quite like going to a middle of the road restaurant and ordering a steak and potato... these are all done in wine sauces and such... So, what will it be?

"Also, how do you like the second champagne? I find it to be just as good as the first."

She looked at Malthazius. "I am so lucky to have met you. Being here with you gives me a feeling of... contentment and happiness. Moreover, I want to do anything I can to help you with your tasks." Aeschia smiled happily at Malthazius.

I truly am lucky. she smiled to herelf.

"Here comes the waiter... tell me your preferences quickly... or I will choose for you! I would bet there is not a bad dinner in the restaurant. And I am a desert addict! I cannot wait to see the desert menu!"

She waited for Malthazius to give her an idea of what he wanted so she could convey it to the waiter.

"I understand that the French have a specialty steak made from mushrooms and cream, as well as a potato dish composed of thickly sliced potatoes. I imagine that it is on here somewhere. Their national salad will also be fine," Malthazius said, hoping that Aeschia would be able to find the dishes that he outlined. Although Irish in origin, the French had a way of pirating any type of food, radically re-orienting it, and then serving it up as the pillar of cuisine. He was eager to try it, and trusted Aeschia's judgement. "If anything rings a bell as being distinctly french, then that is what I'll have. Just no slugs on my plate."

Aeschia leaned over to whisper in Malthazius ear, "I do not like escargot either. It tastes like there is sand in it, aside from just being nasty." She giggled.

The waiter arrived, and Aeschia told him that Malthazius would have "#22" on the steak menu. "... done medium, with your potato, vegetable, and salad of the day." She smiled at him and tipped him again. The waiter left.

"I hope you like wine sauces and such, as I believe you will get a bit of that. It all looked good to me." Aeschia told him. "I hope a medium steak was a good call. I think you will like what I chose. The special really did look good.

"If you hate it, I guess I owe you." she laughed.

Aeschia raised her glass, "To good food and great company!" and smiled.

Tyranna looked over her shoulder at Raphael's tail and couldn't help but smile. She'd turn her head again to look at him. "Merely an example. I'd rather burn down my house than to see a copy of my books destroyed, as well as any of the more valuble ones in my reference library. If I were to get the 'Divine comedy', I'd most surely die to to protect those books. You see, they're like the family I never had, each with their own trials and tribulations that I don't have to ask to get at. Same as if I'd die for yourself or Boaz. Pathetic, I know, but I've been alone all this time, and while still young, technically speaking, I know what's worth fighting for and to die knowing I tried to protect that will put me at ease." She folded her arms across her chest and smiled. "That's what it means."

"The 'Divine Comedy'?" He asked, "And I know understand. It is not pathetic, most certainly not. It is commendable and in truth slightly enviable that you have found something that brings you such joy that you would be willing to lay down your life to protect them, and the care of knowladge is always a noble goal."

"To good food and great company." Malthazius drank to the toast with Aeschia. "As to the steak, Medium is too raw. But I can fix that while chewing. Wine sauce, you say? Figures. The French always have a thing about their wine. I still think that Italy has better wines though.

"If you don't feel like eating, I can boast some more and demonstrate my kinship with the all-consuming flames by eating you salad, discreetly of course." Malthazius grinned agian, that grin to match the devil that went with all that possessed fiery powers.

"I figured you could make your steak more well done if you wanted." Aeschia grinned. "I'm glad you did not want it bloody raw!

"France has the best wine fields in the world, but to be honest with you," Aeschia whispered, "I do not want to say this too loud or we will be run out of town by an angry mob. I prefer Italian wine, but France does make the best champagne, I would say."

Aeschia looked at Malthazius as he was grinning. "Actually, I will eat some of my salad. I do not believe my plate flaming would be discreet." She gave him the same devilish smile and chuckled.

"After dinner would you like to walk along the Champs Elysées? We could just walk the streets and go to a bistro, get coffee and sit at an outside table and drink it. Anything you want to do is fine with me.

"If you would like to go to go to a wine bar that is fine. Just let me know what you would like to do Malthazius. I am flexible." Aeschia smiled.

Just then, the waiter arrived with their dinners, which were huge. "Everything looks and smells delicious!" Aeschia commented.

The waiter asked if they needed anything else and Aeschia told him they were fine and they would wave down the sommelier when necessary. The waiter left them with their dinners.

"My salad looks fantastic! Pine nuts and fruit, and baby greens. I know I am going to love this. Malthazius, your dinner looks and smells amazing. I hope you do not mind giving me a bite later on. I know it is tacky, but it looks so good." Aeschia grinned.

"Tell me how it is." She smiled.

Tyranna nodded enthusiastically. "Yes. The Divine Comedy, written by Dante Alighieri in 1265 tells a tale of the afterlife. Dante is led through hell, purgatory and paradise by a favourite poet of his, Virgil. It's in latin and in poetic form, and, while it's not as popular NOW, I know my books and my history, and if history repeats itself those books will be known worldwide. " She smiled when he told her it wasn't pathetic. "I'd hoped not, thank you for confirming that." She said with not an ounce of sarcasam. "And you? What's worth fighting for through your eyes?"

"Peace, a worthy idea, love and for the proper course of action." He replied

She rose an eyebrow. "Spoken like a true demon.' She said dryly, though not unkindly. "Worthy things indeed." She nodded her approval.

"If you say so. Most of the demons I've met would disagree with you as to what makes a true demon." He commented

She shrugged. "To each their own." Tyranna would say simply.

"True enought." He replied, "So where is Boaz anyways?"

Tyranna waved a dissmissive hand. "Off doing his vampiric buisiness of some sort. Where though? I don't ask, he never tells." She smiled at him wanly.

"So he keeps you in the dark, that must be annoying." He commented

"It does look excellent." Malthazius cut a piece of his steak and chewed it, grilling it while he did so. It went down well-done, tasty and warm. "This is pretty good. I agree about the wine, though I haven't heard of Australia or New Zealand. Is that in the new world? I'm afraid I'm rather busy with homeland matters, so I've neer been able to study much about the colonization."

She shrugged. "Somewhat. Perhaps it's better if I don't know, yes?"

"No. I have never found it's better not knowing, even for unpleasent things." He replied

"I am glad you like your dinner." Aeschia smiled.

"So, what do you want to do after dinner... oh, and dessert!" Aeschia asked Malthazius.

"Let's find a corner bistro and order their specialty coffee. We could try their pie as well.

"And the Champs Elysees? Is that the main street? I am sure we could find a number of artists while we walk. Care to get a sketch of our faces done for prosterity?"

Moot point... I am gone.

Aeschia suddenly winced. Her eyes snapped shut, a look of brief shock, followed by one of concentration on her face. When she opened her eyes, she looked troubled. "Aeschia, what is it? I can tell something important just happened. What was it?" Malthazius was extremely concerned.

"I, I have to go, to the Tremere house. I'm sorry."

"I'm coming with you." The two got up and left, Malthazius dropping another small bag of coins on the table as they left. The two made their way back to the hotel, and called up their carriage for the ride back to the house of the Tremere. "What happened?"

"Vincent called me. He said that I had to return at once, that something important had occurred. He said it had to do with Marius."

"I understand." They were silent for the rest of the ride. As they arrived, Vincent was already outside, waiting for them. He helped Aeschia out and into the house. Malthazius followed. Aeschia was seated, and entered into a close conversation with Vincent. Malthazius waited in the hall. After about five minutes, the vampiress came out, crying, and Malthazius hugged her.

"Shh, shh. You can tell me. I am willing to wait with you."

"Malthazius, I'm sorry," Aeschia sobbed into his shoulder. "I have to leave you." She looked up at him. "Vincent took it upon himself to conduct a search for the whereabouts of Boaz that I had mentioned earlier. In doing so, he came into contact with Marius. Apparently, somebody attacked his home, and he has fled. I'm so sorry, Malthazius, but right now he needs me."

"Then I shall come with you."

"No. He needs my help in moving the King and Queen. While I trust you, I cannot have you come on this. Marius wouldn't take you, he values his role too much to do so. Continue with your goal. St. Michael gave you his sword for a reason. Vincent found something about Boaz. He can tell you." Malthazius kissed her. Lonog and slow, a good-bye kiss.

"Thank you for everything. You have helped find love again Aeschia. You have healed my borken heart." The vampiress looked at him with teary eyes, then went upstairs. Malthazius went in to talk with Vincent.

"I understand that you and Lady Aeschia were looking for Boaz. I have found his abode. If you open your mind, I can give you more explicit instructions. By her Ladyship's order, and my own honor, I shall do nothing other than tell you how to find Boaz."

"Very well. I will not resist you, though I know it is probably futile, as I have not my sword out and ready. Begin." Images streamed in, fast, but controlled, processable, and in doing so, Malthazius found out the location of Boaz. "Thank you for both your assistance and your hospitality. You have been most gracious." Malthazius walked out, grabbed his bag from the carriage, then turned to Vincent one last time. "I shall have Johannes send Aeschia's carriage here as soon as I see him. I trust that you will be able to contact her. Again, my thanks, and be wary, for I sense changes on the wind." With that, Vincent in the doorway, and Malthazius at the gate, he leapt up, and once he had a good altitude, his lower body ignited, sending him up and off towards Boaz. He had some hunting to do.

Tyranna nodded thoughtfully. "Maybe." She pulled at the collar of her shirt. "It's hot in here, no? Why don't we continue our walk outside. And anyway, it would appear as though we've walked in a complete circle." Indeed that was so, for the two demons ended up in the same location they has met eachother in.

Krastatros sent Vladmir a message. I'll be right back, I have some business t do. "Excuse me gentlemen, I must leave now." Krastatros got up and walked outside. He immeaditly reverted to his orignal form. He ahoped in a carriage and looked around for potential vistims, or, better yet, hunters to fight Boaz. He also called Raphael. Raphael, it is Krastatros. Is everything going well? Tell me what you have found so far.

"It is a bit." He agreed with her at the heat. He headed over to grab his cloak. "Shall we continue this outside?"

Krastatros would find himself staring at the mental equivilent of a castle when he sought to contact Raphael, a castle with it's drawbridge raised. It was pretty plain that Raphael was generating a mental shield against intrusions, wanted or otherwise.

Krastators was enraged. Raphael had betrayed him. He focused his mind. Boaz had given his servants mental blocks to keep them from revealing anything. He thought long and hard, until finally, he found something. A hunter who had just recently been told the location. He smiled. he knew it now. However, he felt something else from Boaz. A power. Then he was shocked. He has the power to summon a titan. No matter. I will find something. Vladmir, I know where Boaz is. Soon, I will return, then we will go on the hunt.

Tyranna blinked and narrowed her eyes in concern at Raphael but said nothing. She took her cloak off her arm and swung it onto her shoulders, lifting up the hood so only her astonishing blue eyes shone out from underneath. She sent a message to her master, directed on one heavily contained channel. m'lord, my friend and I are taking a walk outdoors. If you need anything, just call me. She'd brush the mental link aside and smile at her friend as they headed towards the door (which was readily opened by one of Boaz's servants) and stepped out into the fresh air.

I live to serve you, my eternal master Vladimir replied to Krastatros, all the while keeping a cool demeanor at the table, while the others talked and ate. He would glance towards Katrina occasionally, giving her a small smile, before returning to business.

It was becoming a long meeting...much longer than he would hope. He'd have to end this soon...

Excellent. Soon, everything will come to completion. Boaz will be dead, I will rule the vampire world, and you and Katrina will be wed.

OOC-TG Blastit.

Raphael likewise put his cloak on and was to all appearences, simply a tall man. Once they were outside, Raphael took in a deep breath of fresh air. "So how long have you been with Boaz?"

Malthazius flew along the Rhine for a small while before turning on a bearing towards the abode of Boaz. Pushing himslef, he removed the pack and held it so that his body could burn as well. It caused the air around him to move away, a trait that for some reason increased his speed. He flet a small nudging at his mind before he realized what it was.

Damn, let my shields down came his thought as he drew up his mental barriers, assisted in a large part when he tapped into the sword on his back. He had only been thinking about Boaz, so unless the creature wanted that, Malthazius had little to go on. Still, the fact that such a creature could take him by surprise was a problem indeed. He could reach the abode of the Vampire lord by mid-day. As any intelligent and powerful vampire would, he probably had a number of retainers that would be able to recieve him until night fell, should Boaz be the type to require sleep during the day.

Krastatros followed the trail he had found to find the artifact. He entered a small tomb. It was very unappealing, a perfect place to hide something of great value. He found the item he was looking for. It looked like a small glass ball, but inside was a swirling green mist. He grabbed it, and laughed. Boaz, do you hear me? Your death is in my hand.

She thought about this for a moment. "A little over two hundred years, I believe. Boaz would know for sure." She smiled to herself. "I can't believe its been that long already."

"That is a fair chunk of time." He commented, "So how do you know he's not stifling your education by your service to him?"

"He's provided me with books to learn from, even helped me with some himself, and taught me how to foucus my telepathy and...abnormal powers." Tyranna would reply. "If he is stifling it, I'm content with what I have."

"Abnormal powers?" He asked with a raised eyebrow.

She chuckled. "Mother had fire, Father had ice, I have wind, the hardest to control." Tyranna sighed. "THAT's what makes it abnormal...whoever heard of a wind demon?"

"Well the Tengu are suppose to have mastery over the air." He replied

Boaz appeared behind the pair, his new staff hidden away safely, and said, "Well the Tengu are special class of demon. A natural wind demon like Tyranna is very special." He looked at them and said, "Well aren't you going to introduce him Tyranna?" He smiled at them.

Tyranna started a moment then whirled to face her employer. "Ah! Boaz, how kind of you to join us!" She gestured to Raphael. "This is an old friend of mine I met on my travels. His name is Raphael." She turned to her friend. "Raphael, this is Boaz, Lord of the mansion you and I just walked through."

"So you are the infamous vampire Boaz." He commented, "It is interesting to meet you, though in a way I already have."

He looked the vampire over as he talked, and wondered if it came down to it whether Tyranna would attack him if Boaz commanded it.

Excellent. Soon, everything will come to completion. Boaz will be dead, I will rule the vampire world, and you and Katrina will be wed.

OOC-TG Blastit.

ooc: Let's see if this floats

"I'm afraid our time has been cut short. I have realized I have a meeting within the morrows morn and I must bid you adou. Whatever your answer would be, I hope you choose the right ones, my colleages. I hope you realize that Boaz is still out there and waiting to strike..." Vladimir said slowly as he got up and bowed.

"Katrina, my dear, let us be off," he said quietly. Krastatros is coming and he wants to take us on a 'hunt'.

Katrina nodded and smiled politly at the men before rising and moving to Vladimir. The hunt made her wonder, did Kastatros want them to go with him after Boaz or some important minor minion or did he wish to take them on a hunt after some humans. The last seemed less likely and she felt a bit nervous as she had never fought before in her life. Yet she still felt confident in herself.

"Have a good evening gentlmen." She said to the hunters before offering her hand to Vladimir. "Lets be off."

Vladimir held out his hand for Katrina to take hold. He gave her a smile and looked at Arcen, who had several weapons in his arms. Following him were several more servants with weapons in their hands.

"My love, Kastatros is preparing to finally rid the world of Boaz. I feel that you should know some ways of fighting, but I do not want you to get too close to the fight. I love you too much to see you get hurt."

"I have arranged some targets for gun fighting. However, that is quite possibly the easiest fighting there is. Swordfighting would take quite a bit longer and I have other...plans for you, my love."

Vladimir smiled as he remembered their passionate night before Kastratros had called him right in the middle. She had wanted to take a little visit to her village. Night was still out and would be so for them to accomplish her wish.

Katrina smiled at Vladimir as his servants held various sorts of weapons before them. She had seen swords and spears before but had never heard of a gun. She saw a strange looking device, a metal tube attached onto wood with another jumble of metal next to the barrel and a metal rod sticking out of the bottom of the wood. Was this a gun?

Katrina looked at Vladimir and smiled seductivly at Vladimir. She had an idea what the other thing that he had in store for her was. "Show me how to use a sword and a gun. Don't worry my love...I will keep myself out of trouble and be useful. I can't wait to see your other plans."