Beginning of the Masquerade(Private)

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[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

He had been thankful for the room and, so far, glad that nothing had happened in spite of his . . fears about being around that seemingly insane Prince and his, for the most part, equally as questionable posse. Such a strange evening it had been, so much to figure out, so much he did figure out. . and there would be more still. Pasts, the present - which he was so content with - and all those tomorrows. . The things they could do, would do - and what couldn't they do? They had the time, they had the funding - and oh, how it seemed like a never ending pool to Dima - and they had the company. . . Things would never be boring, no, there would always be something to look forward to - even if it was as simple as resting in a bed as they were n-- . . . Now what was that?

. . Interesting. It definitely disturbed all his good thoughts - which were distracting him from the headache which had yet to fully go away. When the reality of that set in once again he winced. . but it was the curious sounds which caused his brow to rise up slightly. And those sounds. . were definitely not doing anything for his headache. Not even Bastian's movements - however nice - were distraction enough for. . . that. Certain things were both blessings and curses. When it came to battle, he was quite happy - as were his squad mates, he was sure - that he could tell if someone was trying to sneak up on them however. . . he wasn't all too keen on hearing the words of that other shifter, the. . Prince's company? . . .and he was definitely not pleased to hear the sounds coming from a very. . similar. . voice. . Hypocrite.

Suddenly not feeling very. . safe. . and having no place to hide, he grabbed the nearest and closest thing to shelter possible: the pillow. If it was dark, and the sounds even the slightest bit muffled he could at least pretend they weren't there. Oh, how he wished he could be more oblivious to it. Of course, Bastian proved to be a bit of an obstacle in completing this task. He sighed - shrugged. . It wouldn't have done much good, anyway. "I'm. . . no, no I know what I'm hearing. It is their house. . maybe they think we're still asleep. Or maybe they just don't care. Who are we to distract them from what may be an . . every day occurrence? A . . tradition?" He didn't want to know the full story about it and didn't need to, either. At least he didn't . . smell anything too bad, really. . . yet. . . "I'll try to stop thinking about it and burdening your mind." It was. . the very least he could do - and if that wasn't a sign of affection, he didn't know what was. There, the first 'thank you' present. Of course, when people weren't being very secretive about things it was easy for it to slip back into mind--- . . . . . Please. Stop.

At least the sheets provided a momentary comfort, which was quickly ended by both the sudden heat and the continuation of. . . whatever was going on in that exclusive party down the hall. . . He was sure things weren't as warm where he was compared to there, so, no need to complain about that. In fact, the warmness was somewhat nice - it might not have been 'real' especially not Bastian's. . . ah, but weren't all vampires leeches anyway? . . . but for a moment he was reminded of the Bastian in. . in those long since past memories. And with the slight discolouration of things thanks to the sheets. . it almost looked to Dima as though he could, possibly, make Bastian blush -- possibly. Such a silly, dismissible thought. He did, however, loosely grab Bastian's hair, twirling it between his ring, middle and index fingers. Of course the hair wasn't warm, but it was still that brilliant colour which almost reminded him of fire -- and so nice feeling, too. Just . . seeing that, and knowing he could wake up to it for nights to come. . it was almost enough.

He smiled as he continued this activity mindlessly, just playing with the hair. . . Even continued after Bastian brought up a very valid point. Lying about was nice, but. . . . there were other things to do, better things - things which would be more meaningful and wonderful. Traveling . . sounded great. He had only been in Russia and Germany and everywhere in between, after all - and because of Bastian his idea of what the 'world' was had suddenly became very. . vast and different. So many countries, many of which he had never heard of -- lands across seas and people, and places he never thought possible to exist. He'd like to see these places, these. . strange and exotic things. More than seeing them, though, he'd like to experience them -- with Bastian there, of course. "I think that's a great idea," he nodded, finally letting the hair go. All too great of an idea. . it was traveling that allowed him to meet Bastian, after all, and. . . "I'd like to see different places with you." . . . As long as he could stay by Bastian, though. . it didn't really matter where they were or where they ended up, not for tomorrow. .the other tomorrow. . or the next. "Hey," he continued, after a fairly long pause. ". . .I'm not sure if I ever told you this or not, but. . I do love you," another pause before he quickly amended, as though downplaying the whole thing, ". . or something like that."

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

"I'm glad... Or something." He chuckled, bringing his face to rest in the nook of Dima's shoulder and neck, thankful the sounds had seemed to die down for the time being. Stretching himself out caused his body to shake a little in protest. "You will see any place you've ever wished to with me Dima, all you have to do is say the word and we'll go... I've never left Germany before I met you... and now we can go anywhere we please now that the marks are done." He smiled. "Where would you like to go first?"

He didn't mind Dima playing with his hair, he knew how much he liked it now so he'd let him have it whenever he wished. Bastian also didn't mind the warmth of the bed... He himself being naturally cold... He just soaked it up and stayed that way... Least Dima wouldn't be cold while they rested there. "To tell you the truth I can't wait until I'm back in our own bed and in our own home with our own things. It'll be so very nice after everything we've been through hm?" Though the bed they where resting on now was very nice... Was very soft... Ah he'd miss the bed...

With a shake of his head he went back to what Dima said earlier. "It is his home... We have no right to tell him what to do, hell we should be humbled that the Prince allowed us to stay in his home... And for as long as he has too. Kindred spend their nights differently... So if that's how he does it then.... We really can't say anything to him about it. It'd be rude on our parts... So very very rude, you never bring up these things to the Prince and expect them to be happy over it... Oh no." Shakes his head slowly to get the point across.

Hell if he where Prince though... Oh if he where Prince he wouldn't flaunt his relationship with Dima... No, he'd keep that between them and private. In his own home, behind closed doors, and the like... No one needed to know what went on between then, why, they wouldn't understand it anyway. They wouldn't... Get it. They'd never know why Dima meant so much to him.... And they didn't need to either, he didn't need their approval. Ah but it wasn't as if something his age would ever be prince. That was just a pipe dream but he knew he could do it! And at least he wouldn't be creepy...

What was there really left to say between them... Aside from figuring out where they where going to go... He chuckled. "Ah, you'll get to try food from all over the world... we can walk the beaches at night and dine like kings you and I... and time again and again I'll remember just why you're mien liebe... Why you're the light of my light... So long as you stay along my side." He smiled

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

xxxxஇZakahr Varfolomeiஇxxxx

இஇ

ஒOver an eternity, improbabilities become certainties.ஒ

Zakahr pet the arm that came to rest around him now. Slowly he did this while the other hand handled the paint brush he used on his lips. "Because my lovely pet... I like how it looks, I like the shape my lips are given.. And it does look so nice when it's not smeared." He smiled in the mirror, all be it darkly, at the boy behind him, still petting the arm nice and slow. Ah how often had they stood like this? He remember Nikolai being small enough to sit in his lap as he did this... Yes that was an amusing memory. He put the paint brush back in it's home and leaned back on his princess closing his eyes. "Love you... My little fairy Princess." He chuckled.

His eyes stayed closed and he stayed very very still as they stayed like that. "It's getting time for a haircut for you, the back around your neck is getting a little too long and the ends on your front long bits need to be cleaned up. We'll do this in a night or two when things settle down here." He nodded once and even kissed Nikolai's arm now that the lipstick had come to dry, so not to leave a mark on his darling pet... Couldn't have that... Oh no. Lipstick marks weren't quite the same as.... Love bites. "What do you wish to do with the rest of the evening?"

ஒYes, I will feed you to my pet alligator who thinks he is a fairy princess.ஒ

[Sears Nazi]

Nikolai

"But," this he said rather coyly, "by the end of the night it's always smeared again anyway, isn't it?" No use in making things look so nice and elaborate, no matter how nice it may look. . for the short time it was on properly, that was. At least Nikolai didn't see a point to it, unless Zakahr was a firm believer in exercises in futility. Nothing more to say there - just smile at the thought, watch the hand petting his arm and. . .watch for a reaction. But those things would have to wait. There was a much more . . important and dominant thought which flooded his mind now; food. He had yet to eat, in part because he was so occupied waiting by the door. . part because Zakahr made it very clear that dirty princesses got no food. And yet, he found himself resting partially on top of Zakahr. .and now, now he was oh so clean and oh so glittery. .

The arm which he had rested on Zakahr's shoulder moved its way upwards slowly, as Zakahr leaned back. . . Nikolai placed a single finger over Zakahr's lips. He didn't press hard - there was no sense in ruining that black makeup. . yet. "Love you, too, Fairy Prince~" . . Of course, Zakahr was not fairy in any sense of the word. Not dainty enough - didn't wear the right colours. . No. No, surely the other fairy Princesses would laugh at Nikolai for calling such a man the 'fairy prince', but Zakahr was his Prince, and Nikolai did belong to him-- . . And the only one that could rightfully own a fairy princess was. . . his fairy prince.

"You've made good on your promises, and . . you've had your little feast, so now I must ask you to, at the very least, accompany me while I have mine." . . Fellow, of course. Human life - ever so cheap, ever so. . available. Not that it was a problem - there was no taste finer~ . . . "How does that sound for an evening plan? We can stroll the dungeon, wave gracefully at the adoring fellows, and then pick a fine one to celebrate this night with. . . Sit down at a candle lit table in the centre of the hall while the other fellows watc-- . . . a haircut?" Oh, he didn't like the sound of that. Haircuts involved people putting shiny, sharp objects entirely too close to him -- and heaven help them if they ruin the hair of a pretty fairy princess such as he! ". . Maybe if you do it. . and you do it right! If not, I will spend every moment of my time telling you how much I hate it, you know-- . . ." . . Ah,. . there were definately some advantages to that mental link.

[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

Being able to see the world. . . every last bit of it; every continent, every country. . . It wasn't a dream or some idea that could never come to fruition, but a possible reality-- if they had the money, they had the time. . and neither were things he could see them running out of anytime soon. Where could he possibly suggest? There were so many countries he had yet to explore himself - and though they now had names, thanks to Bastian - neither of them had memories of them having never traveled. .

Dima had seem a few countries, though - not as a tourist, though, so he was sure there was much he missed. On their campaign to Germany they had to go through Poland. He'd have liked to have seen it more - this . . strange country in the middle of his and Bastian's once separate worlds. It was nearby, after all, it wasn't as though they had to go out of their way--- . . . Perhaps that'd be a good starting point. "I never really thought about going anywhere," he admitted, "Rather, I thought about going somewhere but never where, exactly. . . There's no sense in thinking on these things when you'll never have the means to do any of it." At least that was how it had been. Fanciful dreams had no place in such an impoverished world. No, many of his friends would never leave Saint Petersburg let alone leave Russia herself. . . and many were content knowing that. Russia may as well have been the entire world - hell, Dima had thought that once himself. ". . Or the places I thought about going I've already been to in my dreams-- . . . . But those places weren't real, anyway, so I can't very well suggest we visit."

He shrugged - he may have knew the name of the countries now but without any real information on them . . he couldn't rightly say that he'd rather go to one over the other. "Let's just. . go to Poland. I've been there before, but staying on the same dirt path and walking through what seemed like an endless amount of fields and actually seeing the country are completely different experiences. From there maybe we can go to Germany, if you'd like. . . I miss walking around with you, just us, and. . I think it might mean more now that I understand the significance of those places." It seemed like a satisfactory answer, anyway. "Then you can pick the next place, or . . we could stay put - nomadic or not I'll be content." . . .Because you'll be with me.

"But," he smiled at the other's words - and there was the slightest hint of blush, "I think the very first thing we should do is go home and . . ." it sounded silly, since sleeping and relaxing was all they had been doing, ". . just spend some time in that bed of ours." . . . Then he supposed he'd say goodbye to his friends, or, those who remained of them. . Thank their children for being so lovely and allowing him to watch them grow from babies to the, as far as he was concerned, adorable children that they were . . . Maybe he'd even buy them little gifts. . and then say goodbye.

There wasn't much he could do anymore - no way to explain why, as the years came to pass, he looked the same - why he was still alive well into those children's adult years and, as time went by, why he looked younger than they did-- . . . He'd have liked to have seen them grow up; teenagers, adults. . Seen them get married and have kids of their own - if he had lived that long - . . but it wasn't too long, no. . And now that this was possible - without a single doubt - he knew he couldn't do it. So many questions and such a simple answer - but not one that he could really tell them about. They were friends now - they trusted him now. . the children trusted him, now. . and he couldn't ruin that.

A few more nights and then goodbye it would be. "Yeah, I . . I think we should travel the world." He reiterated, this time with a more solemn tone to it. "Go to a bunch of somewheres and never really know why we did. There will be something, and we can make new memories - shared memories. . Meet new people and. . " . . . constantly be meeting new people. He'd get used to that, he. . hoped. ". . . You'll always be there as long as . . as long as I'm alive, right?" . . He knew the answer - oh, how he knew the answer and oh how he was so glad for it. But at the same time, it seemed like such a good thing - such a good and horribly unlikely thing. "No. . no don't answer that. I'm still just a bit scared -- but I suppose I don't need to be." From worrying that he'd die and leave Bastian, to worrying that Bastian would just get sick of him sometime in this eternity - ah, hopefully time would ease this fear.

He looked up to the ceiling in an attempt to clear his mind of any and all thoughts - Bastian's or his own. It even helped with this headache some, almost allowing him to completely forget it. . Though after those thoughts, there were definitely worse things to think about. No. .Nono, no need to worry. Just listen, answer-- . . "I still wish they'd have waited until after we left," he muttered. His house or not there was no reason for. . it. That. "And you can do it, you know." He continued, replying verbally to that weaker, 'though' voice. "Be a prince one day, I mean. I think you'd be fair-- I know you'd be fair. You've done so much for me, as it is-- . . " He nodded, happy over that long since past decision of Bastian's, "One day. One day you can be prince and I'll be . . . your knight." Or hound, as he'd come to learn it was called. It sounded like a plan - and it made him happy enough to think on it. . " . . Though if . . you ever had to supervise something like this, for some other people. . down the road. ." He shook his head mockingly, ". . . let's just go about live subtly. Though I can't promise not saying things to you like this the entire time they're there. . " . . . . The joys of that mind link, the absolute joys.

The food, the beaches -- he was excited for it all. . especially the food. What an experience, trying something new - hell, what an experience having enough food to eat morrow after morrow. The fact that it would be . . new. . foods only served to make it more appealing. But the most appealing thing. . was knowing he could hear things like that every day for the rest of his days-- . . Ah~ . . "Mien liebe," . . May as well text out his German, even if he already knew the meaning of that word. He was a bit disappointed in himself - suddenly knowing how the words should be said and being unable to say them properly because of his own accent, "You won't ever need to 'remember' those things - I'll do my best to make sure you're living them every moment. No sense in remembering things that never ended." Bliss - the only word to describe it.

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxxஇZakahr Varfolomeiஇxxxx

இஇ

ஒOver an eternity, improbabilities become certainties.ஒ

Zakahr was use to being able to calm his own mind and void it of thought, even such a thing could be done with the bond.. But Nikolai hadn't mastered such things so often Zakahr knew what the other was going to say before they said it... Like how they where hungry, he knew it, he could feel it.. And he couldn't say he shared the same feelings anymore since he'd fed but he understood. "It's quite neat by the end of the night Nikolai, assuming I don't do anything to smear it." He grinned a little.

Zakahr wasn't a dainty man, no. He wasn't a broad man either though, and though his outfits weren't as light as Nikolai's they where still elaborate for the era, though darkly colored for it too. He was still a very sharply dressed man... But not a fairy, neither of them where... least not the folk lore kind. He just knew better then to upset Nikolai - Let him believe what he wished, besides it made for a great reaction when it came to punishment of others... They don't expect a broad shifter when he says 'fairy princess'.

"I can come with you while you feed, that is no issue to me.. and yes a hair cut, which I will do myself as I always do." and only because he got tired of hearing Nikolai whine and complain when his hair didn't come out just right. With one last pet to the arm he stood up and straightened himself, rolling down his sleeves and going to get his cape to reattach t his outfit before taking his princess arm and arm with a slight hint of a smile. "For now, lets get you some food, the table will be set up by the time we get down there." Simply because they did this every night at the same time. He led Nikolai out of the room and headed off towards the dungeon steps.

ஒYes, I will feed you to my pet alligator who thinks he is a fairy princess.ஒ

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

Bastian didn't care where they went really, anywhere would be an adventure so he was fairly agreeable with the idea of Poland and Germany - He missed his homeland anyway. "We can go to those places, then perhaps after that we should make our way to France and then Sweden just to see." He smiled. He did love that blush, he could hear the blood moving to cause such a reaction... Hearing it alone caused him to move and lift his head just to see it a slight grin playing on his lips due to it. He left a kiss over one of the cheeks and chuckled. That'd never get old.

Though as he came to rest he furrowed his brows over the solemn feeling, hand coming to rest on Dima's arm. "The path of immortality is never an easy one, harder yet to travel alone... I'm sorry for all that you'll lose through these nights.. Starting with the first few nights after this..." Perhaps now Dima understood why Bastian had to leave everything behind when he was embraced, he couldn't stay around humans with no understanding of what he was... Let alone if he was found out they'd have just killed him for being the devil in carnet.

"Don't be scared, you have no reason to be scared anymore. You nor I are going anywhere... I will always be here and as will you. Not even the moon and it's draw on you will take us apart, this much I can promise you." Though he didn't know if Dima's beast would know that Bastian was his lifeline too now.. If he'd stay unharmed in the full moon... And for the sake of them both he wasn't about to test such things out.

"I would have liked if they had waited as well... But we can't always get everything that we want." He chuckled lightly. Bastian tilted his head. "Perhaps someday I'll be Prince then, back in my birth land, take the domain for my own." He mused. "My knight..." He liked how that sounded, and he smiled along with it. "They call that spout Hound, actually, that's what Nikolai is to Zakhar... I think you'd make a wonderful Knight... And then you'd surely never leave my side... You'd be my absolute protector." But he had to pause to take in the mental link which only served to make him laugh. 'Yes, I can't say I wouldn't mind that either, least then no one will know what we're saying.'

"Between the both of us, I don't think we'll ever forget anything ever again... Not even out first nights together." He mused softly. "So then our first stop is home to rest und to pack for our travailing then it's off to Poland to see all that it offers.. Then back to Germany to wonder the roads as we once did. Perhaps while there I can see some fellow kindred... Then to France and god knows where our feet will take us next." He liked the sound of all of this.

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

[Sears Nazi]

Nikolai

'Assuming I don't do anything to smear it'. . feh. It seemed it needed to be fixed a bit more often than it ever should need to be, but who was he to complain? It wasn't like he had a problem with smeared makeup - oh, no. That'd just be hypocritical. Besides, in some ways he. . . liked it when it was smeared more. But that was always what happened after something. . lovely happened, wasn't it? And who wouldn't want a reminded of such a wonderfully lovely thing?

Though he still wasn't very keen on the idea of the haircut. At least Zakahr was more. . sensitive . . to his needs in that respect - how it was so very important that it looked just so. Even then he wasn't completely certain on the idea - things looked just fine the way they were now - if the fringe which framed his face was cut even half an inch too short, why, it'd look positively dreadful next to the longer locks --- . . . and the tiara simply wouldn't sit properly, oh no. A fairy princess must always look his best - always look like the most stunning of creatures while donning his glittering tiara-- These thoughts he decided to dismiss before he could think of something worse that could inevitably happen. It was an impossible situation, really - cut it and he'd complain, leave it alone and he'd complain it was getting too messy to keep up with properly and it'd need to be cut--- . . . If only he could be as lucky as Zakahr. He didn't have to worry about such things -- and this is one of the reasons he was such a perfect fairy prince.

It was always somewhat surprising when Zakahr agreed to go down to the dungeon with him - such a grim place and such. .horrible company those fellows kept. There was a certain thrill in it - picking exactly which fellow would be . . joining them, that was - and listening to the remarks of the other fellows who had to sit and watch. . . What was their problem? Was it that they wanted to indulge in a meal of fellow, too? . . Silly fellows, it was never nice to eat your own kind. . . and the fellow kept in the dungeon was the 'cheap meat' ! Why, if they truly wanted fellow they'd break down the bars and go into town-- . . Breaking bars was easy, wasn't it? How such a simple prison kept the fellows in place always served to astonish him.

It was ever so nice of his prince to escort him down there, though - arm in arm, leading his princess as a proper prince should. . If only he had a tiara of his own the scene would be perfect. Down the steps they went - Nikolai standing as regally as he could, walking as properly as he could -- not the easiest of tasks for him, but he did his absolute best. His free hand he wrapped around the banister - loosely, almost afraid to grab the thing with his hand in its entirety. Such a charming banister - shame it only got dirty and grimy the closer one got to the fellow keep. Such a long hallway - so many fellows making so many sounds - too many sounds to focus on any one. . Jumbled up symphony of cries and moans and anger. Oh, fellows, you should bow and stay respectfully silent. . .!

He ran that same free hand against the bars as they walked down, glancing into every section trying to find the perfect one to . . . eat. Those bars were the most dirty of them all - dirtier than the banister by far, but so much easier to touch - such grime was just fellow seasoning, after all - sometimes dried blood, sometimes sweat, sometimes dead skin from the fellows grabbing at the bars-- aha. Darling.

There was a particularly weak looking fellow - one that had probably been there for a long time. He looked. . particularly lovely that evening. Nikolai was surprised he hadn't seen this fellow already or he wouldn't have been there for so very long. ". . What do you think?"

[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

"Just to see." Dima repeated, happily. It was nice to have such a luxury - to be able to do such things just because. He had thought of going to France next anyway - even if only for its close proximity to Germany, though. . What he learned of such a place from Bastian made it seem like a better place still. Though, it still didn't matter in the least, as far as he was concerned, where they ended up. As long as they did these almost impulsive things-- just to see, just because.

"No, don't be sorry. It's alright." . . Not that it was. There just seemed to be little else to say. What good was consolation? In theory it should help but that was seldom the reality of it. . He'd have to go, those people would eventually die, and from everyone aside from Bastian -- eventually -- he'll be forgotten. "I'm just glad I'm not completely alone. It becomes all the more tolerable knowing that at least I have you. . I won't need to lie to you. No," The other's hand was comforting, "and I suppose if I ever find myself experiencing a sleepless night, ha-- I'll have you to talk to." Which was also a comfort. Bastian had. . been through it before. If anyone had something that could be of any use -- it'd be him. "Though, does one just leave? . . . I imagine so when it comes to a family, but, when friends who will do their best to convince you to stay-- . ." And they would. And he knew he'd have the hardest time telling them it was an impossibility.

He played the situation out in his head. Him saying goodbye - maybe giving away some of his things. . Simple things, maybe a scarf -- they'd find use for that. They'd probably ask if the 'orange hair' was the cause of this decision -- he'd have to tell them that wasn't the case. That'd be too selfish. Abandoning a handful of lifelong friends for what seemed to be a stranger in comparison. . They'd tell him how selfish was and by gods he'd agree. That was really all they had to say to make him contemplating staying, keeping things how they were--- . . But he couldn't stay.

What was there to say? What lie could he come up with? All he could see himself doing was giving them little gifts - telling them, 'please, don't forget me,' and maybe. . maybe if the truth did somehow come out - at least half of it, yes, he was going somewhere with that orange haired fellow. . . 'Maybe I am selfish.' He deserved it, right? He had helped them throughout the years whenever he could, helped dig their ******** graves and-- . . . No. No, that was no reason to 'deserve' anything. He would do this because he wanted to. . and maybe he'd show up again - later, when it was safe to assume his image had slipped through their minds -- the children's minds, he imagine they'd be the only ones still alive-- if they were alive. Maybe he'd even wear those stupid looking cloths the aristocracy seemed so fond of for this appearance, pretend to be from some far off land and have some extra money to spare. Live as some mysterious anonymous benefactor-- Yet, the aristocracy seldom did such things. And surely he'd end up making a mistake - knowing a bit too much about the people than a 'random' lad should, and. . . perhaps it was best they continued as they were. Such things things. . seldom happened to such nice people. Such was just the way of things.

Regardless, he knew he'd spend the next few days explaining things. . then trying to make it up to them. Doing whatever they wanted him to do - whatever it was. Maybe he'd lie to some, maybe tell the truth to others. . He'd make no promises of every returning, and not tell them what he and Bastian had planned. They'd. . want to come. They'd ask questions. Hell, he'd ask questions if in the same situation. . he could not hold it against them. The days would be long and the nights - as he struggled to stay awake - probably longer still. But. . worth it.

The moon brought another problem all together. A very real fear which had been. . . trying to avoid. He couldn't make any promises - probably never would be able to. He knew. . that would get used to Bastian - it already had in the time they had spent together -- but still, there were always the same questions, the same worries upon seeing even the slightest hint of red when the night was through-- Such worries would continue years and years into the future. . In spite of nothing ever seeming to happen. Such a scary thought - or lack thereof - he could never remember much and depended on Bastian's tellings as to what happened that night. Even then, Bastian could only know so much -- what would he know now? . . . . Certainly more than Dima would the next morning. Did he want Bastian to know? Not that he really had a choice. A question without an answer, until. . well, the next full moon. "We'll see." Was all he could remark.

So much for chivalry, then. That thing was this-- . . hound? He didn't seem like he'd make for much protection but~ . . again, perhaps they just did things. . differently. Either way, at least now they had something else to look forward to in the days to come. "So, we end up in Germany, then?" Not that he minded where they ended up. ". . . In a nice new house. Back in Berlin? It'll be strange to take up permanent residency, there. ." Especially after storming the gates. Not that the city would remember one face among many - nor would her citizens. Besides, there was no telling how long their little journey would take. The site, the city, the people -- they'd probably all be different by then. Even if this little 'daydream' never came to fruition he wouldn't mind. "Neither of us need an official title . . for me to never leave your side and . . protect you, the best I can, anyway. ." He sighed. Absolute protector sounded nice - it was a role he'd like to fill one way or another - though he had felt he'd been working on it for a while. ". . Or maybe that's just me being selfish once again," he mocked, "If something happens to your ginger a** I'll be suffering the consequences, too. And we can't allow that to happen."

So they had a plan - a good plan, a plan they'd have to work on more as the days past, but a plan all the same. Here to there and beyond - didn't matter where, never would matter where - as long as new memories were being made but never replacing the old ones. He had Bastian to remind him of them, and he was sure he'd be reminding Bastian every now and then. . it was so easy to reminiscence already and he was still young. Ah. . "Home, a few more nights here, and then -- into the rest of eternity." He said with a nod. Sounded like a good enough plan to him.

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxxஇZakahr Varfolomeiஇxxxx

இஇ

ஒOver an eternity, improbabilities become certainties.ஒ

Zakahr walked arm and arm with his love down the dirty steps and into the dungeon. Ah what a wonderful place it was... The screams and the smells. Save for his own room and the throne room this was one of his favourite places in the palace to be. Sometimes when Nikolai was a very good servant, Zakahr would have exotic fellow brought in for him to dine on. Always human though - He made sure of that much.

He let a breath through his nose as Nikolai pointed out the weak fellow. "If that's the one you'll want, it's what you'll have." Nikolai was perhaps the worst fate in his horrid part of the palace. Once Zakahr's words where out of his mouth there was sudden protest from the others impounded here. Two snaps from the master and the fellow was taken from his cage and carried off to be cleaned up and prepped for... Supper. Zakahr smiled and kissed the back of Nikolai's hand lightly before leading him away from the cage.

"Wonderful pick as always my love, I do hope the fellow is to your liking." He mused as he moved to the table and pulled out the chair for Nikolai with every intent to push it in for him when he sat. It was a long table dressed in a black cover with a golden candle set right in the center for light. No utensils but there was a napkin and an already half filled wine glass on Nikolai's side. Same for Zakahr if he wished to partake in the wine too.

"They will only be here a day or two longer my love, then things will go back to normal, and perhaps you'll be more obedient once they're gone." He mused with a slightly raised brow over the matter, and a tilt of his head.

ஒYes, I will feed you to my pet alligator who thinks he is a fairy princess.ஒ

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

Bastian tilted his head some not sure what to say. "It's different for all of us. You've not been embraced but... Sometimes it's easiest to not.. Say you're leaving and then one night just pick up and go. Yes, it will leave them wondering... Yes it may hurt some of them, but... We're no longer touched by mortal time and sometimes that is the easiest way." But Dima would do as he felt was right and Bastian wouldn't get in the way of that. "I'll be here when you need me... I know these next few years will not be easy years... And I've been there myself. You will not walk the path alone." He said softly, kissing the side of Dima's neck as if they'd make the words more true.

There wasn't much more he could say on that. He allowed Dima to wonder his own thoughts, just petting his side lightly and nodding when needed. "Yes, Berlin. I've still got my home there, we could go back to it as if we never left it. Rule right from the spot." He smiled. "I wish for you to meet a mekhet friend of mine named Nacht when we stop in, I think you'll like him. He's very kind... I've had the pleasure of knowing him since my embrace and I think... I think you'll like to get to know him too." He chose to not tell Dima about Nebel, he'd learn that soon enough on his own if he really did wish to.

It seemed then things that needed to be said had been, and what hadn't they knew anyway... So it was fine. Bastian once again pulled Dima to him and smiled. "We should rest now, it's late and we're both still so very tired... And now we have plans to carry out... We should rest so we don't delay them." He settled into the bed once more for more slumber.

So what if Dima was selfish... He was too. God he was too. He'd never give Dima up... Not now.. and he wasn't too keen on sharing his shifter love either. No, he wouldn't do it if he didn't have to and as it stood it didn't seem he had to at all... This pleased him... Though he did question just how possessive Dima would get, if he would... But those where matters to think on later when the brain hurt far less.

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

[Sears Nazi]

Nikolai

Exotic fellows were always the best tasting fellows. . . and there also never seemed to be any. Wherever did they all hide? All the same, the fellow he selected would have to do - and he'd be a fine meal. They all were, could be -- . . there was just something more. . thrilling about . . different things. Filet mignon compared to the ordinary human steaks. What did it all mean, anyway, to be a 'very good servant'. . Wasn't he always? . . Zakahr could be quite . . unfair.

At least he agreed that Nikolai had excellent taste when it came to picking fellow. He'd do it better still if he could have selected the fellow from the outside in the first place -- but there was seldom an occasion for that much to his dismay. "It will be the best yet," he said - and it always was. Every fellow tasted a little different - depending on what they ate, how they lived-- . . Every time a new experience, enough to make him forget the last. Thus, every fellow was the 'best' fellow - the exotic ones only being a more special variety. "So yes, that's the one~" And how thrilling watching him be taken away. As if that wasn't enough there was the added commentary - shrieks, gasps, cries. . And the fellow himself, trying so hard to struggle but being completely unable to. A shame, really, the weakened state of some of the fellows. They never seemed to put up much of a fight, even when their very life was about to end. It seemed even the other fellows had more . . choice words. . for Zakahr and himself. Of course. . when they were selected, they'd probably act the same way.

When the fellow was already gone - and the other fellows screams turning more into soft whimpering - oh, they'd pick it up again once the fellow was brought out. . fully prepared - he took his seat. "How very chivalrous of you, Zakahr~" Though it was not unexpected. Zakahr would pull out his seat almost every time. . Although on days when he had been 'bad' according to Zakahr, like earlier this evening, he worried the other might pull the chair away before he sat down. On these days he'd sit down a bit slower than usual as to catch his fall if. . something did happen. He was glad to see that it wasn't needed this day. "Well?" He waited for Zakahr to push in the chair. On with it already - wine before fellow with a side of . . agonizing screams.

Those fellows - hardly seemed civilized at all. How could they not appreciate the gorgeous dinnertime setup? Why, they'd be watching just as Nikolai watched them - did they not appreciate the show? Of course they'd say things. . and he'd never answer them. Sometimes he'd apologize at the end - using the napkin to wipe the remaining bits of fellow off his face - 'sorry, it's rude to speak with your mouth full'.

"Will you be. . . having anything?" he asked - some fellow, some wine. Not that he could enjoy it as much as Nikolai did, but-- . . Ah, surely if Nikolai had ended up a true vampire he'd be having fellow every night anyway. . he thought. A few more days. . then things. . could go. . back. . to normal. He was sick of being polite, anyway - they'd done nothing too traumatizing. Why, with guests there, that'd be rude.

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

"Maybe," was all he could say. It just didn't make sense to leave like that . . perhaps it made for less frustration but he didn't see how he could. And maybe that kind of thing worked best in Bastian's situation -- but to Dima, it just. . didn't feel right. "I spent my entire life with them. . . " His voice trailed off. He didn't have a choice. One born into serfdom didn't migrate. That wasn't an option - and thus they were forced into these little communities. Communities that you were told you'd need to rely on for your entire life. . . "I have to do something." He didn't expect things to be easy - expected it even less when the reality of it once again set it due to Bastian's words. . . sealed with that kiss. He didn't even move to return that 'favour', barely acknowledged it. It was appreciated, welcomed, even, and yet. . . his mind couldn't help but to wander to other things. Even Berlin would be a reminded of the people that had to be left behind. Those buildings, that city-- . . .

. . But that city was a beginning, too. And apparently more awaited him there - them there. "From that house of yours. .?" Such a place -- was it proper for a Prince? He couldn't deny it was fantastic, but. . The czar's palace was larger -- Zakahr's place was larger. . and he was certain Bastian would make a better ruler than either of them. "Mm, if you think it's fitting then. . then I think that'd be a good idea." He didn't much want to live in an overly ornate palace anyway. Such grandeur - what was the meaning of it?

He wanted to see that house again, anyway - sleep in that bed, relive some of those days from before there were such. . troubling concerns. It was a war. People were dying. That command to kill the Germans. . . back then, that was the closest he thought he'd ever come to "troubling". Had he known then that those days were easy. . . Then again, most of his friends were still alive then. He supposed he'd just have to make new friends - figured most of them would be vampires and other. . things this little situation he seemed to have fallen into wouldn't need to be fully explained to. Friends where there'd be no sudden goodbyes --- ever. Like. . "Nacht?" Not that he knew Nacht - his only memories of him were Bastian's, but. . he could put a face to that name. He'd be able to recognize Nebel too when they met face to face - but without knowing what to think of, Nebel went temporarily forgotten. "I'd like to meet Nacht." . . . If he was going to go about making this. . new kind of friend, well, he supposed that'd be a good start - especially since Bastian already considered him a friend. "I suppose there are vampires everywhere," . . Stupid question, of course there were, ". . . Do you know many?" . . . He figured they'd encounter vampires on their journeys. Perhaps known ones, perhaps not - anything was a start. Then there was the question. . will the be hostile towards us? . . . But that could wait. He had enough on his mind for now and didn't want to burden it any further.

"Of course," and oh, how he was still exhausted - he had almost forgotten while his thoughts took him to other places. Traveling . . was exhausting as it was - they didn't need to begin the journey that way. He settled back down too, following Bastian's example, stretching the slightest bit. "Just another night or two here then back home before. . . leaving it all." Though he did intend to - and would - go back. . one day, eventually. Whether his friends would still be alive or not -- . . such an uncertainty. Another thing he wouldn't think on. "Leaving it all." he repeated, as though forcing himself to believe his own words.

He wondered how other countries handled the last name issue -- he still had some hope of. . all that, a far faded one but-- . . . Did it matter how other countries handed it? He knew that question was. . . mostly irreverent now, and not . . . simply because he, unlike them, whoever they were, would live forever.

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxxஇZakahr Varfolomeiஇxxxx

இஇ

ஒOver an eternity, improbabilities become certainties.ஒ

Zarkah pushed in the chair then walked to his end of the table, sitting down and picking up his wine glass to smell, with a small nod. "Just the wine and I know I'll pay my due for such a thing... But smells rather appealing." The fellows often got too.. loud too uppity for Zakahr... Often the ones nearest him ended up flesh melted... Er, well their mouths where melted off their faces simply so he didn't have to listen to them bellow anymore. No mouth no sound after all.. It was bliss.

He spun his wine glass once then took a sip. Nikolai had landed on his a** a number of times in the past. Zakahr often became too fed up with his nature and prissy being and just... Yanked the chair out of the way. It made him feel better even if Nikolai wasn't pleased about it in the end. Silly dear, even checked to make sure the chair would stay in it's proper place... Zakahr often blamed the accident on nymphs and kept moving...

It wasn't long until the fellow was returned, washed, bound, and ready to be feasted upon. He was put on the table for Nikolai. Zakahr leaned back and to the side in his chair. "Eat up my darling."

ஒYes, I will feed you to my pet alligator who thinks he is a fairy princess.ஒ

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

"no.. Not really. I know Nacht and my sire.. I hope to know more... Maybe through our travels I will." He smiled, curling around Dima to fall back into slumber. Needed slumber for them both. In two days come to pass Bastian finally lifted himself from the bed and took the time to wash himself in the bathroom provided - Allotting time for Dima to do the same... About a week in bed in the same clothes left one very... Nasty to all senses. He then dressed in the fancy clothes he'd come in, waiting for Dima to do the same before walking out with him. First it was to Zakahr and his pet, whom he thanked profoundly for allowing them to stay within his domain and home as he had... And for being the witness to the marks that had come to pass.

After that he left with Dima to go home, Zakahr did one more nice thing for them and had them taken home in a carriage so they didn't have to walk, in fear they'd still be a little weary due to their young age. Bastian knew the days to follow where not going to be easy ones for Dima, not with all the people he had to say goodbye to... Or all the people he'd be leaving behind now to take on this new life. He did feel very selfish for all of this... But Dima wanted it just as badly as he, so could he truly feel all that selfish? Was it... Selfish to want a yearn as hard as the other? hm.

Not as if the path could be changed now, the bond was set and then where both after all pleased... Hopefully his Sire understood now... Least he could hope. Not that it mattered at the moment... He tried to silence his mind for the trip... But as soon as they where home he got out and made way into their home. God it was good to be home. He wondered the rooms and lit the candles as needed, having a rather one tracked mind at the moment - So Dima got to watch him move around the house in many rooms before coming back with a rather full coin bag and putting it in Dima's hands when he caught up to him. "I feel as if I owe your friends an apology... To take you from them... But I can't do for them as much as I've done for them... But I have more in monetary then I or you will ever need... So give this to them... They'll make good use of it I'm sure. They have families after all that need to be taken care of."

He leaned forward to kiss Dima's head and bring his hands to close around the bag. He knew how much these people meant to Dima... So he had to do something, he wouldn't feel right if he did nothing before leaving... It would never sit with him well... And he knew they'd make better use of it then they probably would...They needed it more. He'd pack later, ready to leave later... They where suppose to still be resting... Still recovering .... Ah and he could bet money on their personal bed being cool and waiting - Perhaps not as soft as the one they had been in but wonderful all the same... Welcoming.

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

There was something familiar about the house - something he didn't expect after the events that had transpired. Everything was different. . his world was different. . and yet the house retained the same charm it always seemed to have. With so much changing, it was good to have one thing remain stable -- he'd miss that house. Miss it and it's many rooms he'd wander, if only to make sure Bastian was still there. He was much more at ease about that now - his eyes would follow Bastian when he entered the room or walked past the doorway, but he never actually got up to follow. Bastian wouldn't disappear. He couldn't now. . Which made things all the easier. In spite of this, he still found his mind wandering; thinking perhaps a bit too loudly the same old thoughts - 'Where are you? Where are you going? Will you be coming back soon? Should I find you?' . . Even if he knew - and could literally see - most of the answers.

"You came back!" Words undeserving of such an exclamation, but it did - and would continue - to impress him. When Bastian returned Dima smiled - it just further went to show that Bastian wouldn't disappear if he went into some other room. The expression quickly faded, however, when he saw the coin bag. .Faded more when it was put in his hands. Tomorrow he'd have to deal with them. . . Never explain where he had been, nor where he was going - only that he was going somewhere and. . . that'd be that. Again he was reminded of those 'selfish' thoughts - of how they'd try to persuade him to stay - how he'd end up wanting to stay. . . His eyes fixated on the coin bag, too shamed to look at Bastian. "You don't owe them anything," he muttered - the whole situation was just as much his fault as it was Bastian's - and oh how he wanted it to be that way. . That could never be denied. It wouldn't have worked if that were the case, no-- . . . "I feel just as bad making you feel as though you do as I will when I break the news to them---" Bastian's kiss was like that of Judas, sealing the deal - his hands now covering the bag like some sacred relic. It wasn't like he had a say in it anymore and, by gods -- the scariest part was he almost didn't want one.

He ran his thumbs along the contour of the bag, sometimes pressing into it to feel the coins moving about. . . Not that he ever had money saved - the lifestyle didn't allow for that - but the sheer weight of it alone felt like it was more money they he had ever made in his life. They'd be clothed and fed for a while yet - for the rest of their . . unfortunately short lives . . if they didn't waste it on lavish things. Most of them he trusted wouldn't - the rarer portion of them probably would. Having money to put aside. . what a new concept. He hoped they'd know how to handle themselves. . . or at the very least wouldn't horde it. Sure they got by on what they had - but there was no reason for just. . just 'getting by'. "Tomorrow," he said with a slow and almost reluctant nod - finally looking back up at Bastian. "Tomorrow, when you're asleep. . I'll take care of this." It was for the best anyway. They'd be more awake - more. . willing to accept things as reality and not as some horrible nightmarish dream. And. . . with Bastian asleep. . he could keep those selfish thoughts to himself. Assuming he could hide them right after and. . . assuming. . he didn't want Bastian to know. "Tomorrow." He had to repeat it to himself one last time - for the moment it seemed he was the one still involved in some dream.

The weight of the coin bag in his hands helped anchor him to what was actually happening - he was thankful for it yet somewhat perturbed. Well, there was no reason to explain why he did anything anymore -- may as well just make way for the living room and put the damned thing down on an end table . . a task which he did, so he felt, far too easily. He glanced at Bastian who was still in the entrance way - he'd follow, no worries there - . . just curious that he was the one to move first. Why, the last time he'd done such a thing--

. . . So that's what they were saying. Borrowed thoughts, of course, not his own recollection of that night. . . From that he only got the cowering and the hiding, Bastian's words-- . . . Not the ones from that screaming match, but. . . Now those he understood, too. He took another look at Bastian - then proceeded to take off his coat and the various accessories and layers covering his top half. Jacket first. He slipped it off one shoulder, than the other - slowly - not wanting to damage the garment at all. . . and he held it up - fingers carefully pinching the shoulders as he lifted it slightly above his head. It'd be a while before he saw that again. . . it wasn't like he could bring himself to wear it often even if he truly wanted to- tarnish something like that? No, he couldn't. . .

He folded it to the best of his ability - just because one knows how to do something doesn't mean they're an expert at applying the knowledge - and rested it on the back of a chair. Again he stared at it for a brief moment, taking a step back and slouching slightly - one hand to his chin. Such a brilliant garment. . . fancy, ornate, elaborate. Easily one of the most expensive things he owned even with Bastian being the sole provider for such things-- . . . Was that good enough? Was. . .whatever he managed to say in that frighting, pressure intensive moment. . ? Was the fact that this whole bond thing worked. . .? Still fixated on the jacket he removed the cravat next - that dreaded and horrible, senseless accessory - and placed that, too, gently on top of the jacket. . . and looked back to Bastian once again.

He walked over, suddenly not wanting Bastian to be so far away in spite of their close proximity-- . . . removed his coat, too. His he just held over his arm - though the coat rack was right there jackets of that quality should never be hung on them, no-- . . .but that jacket had been worn even less than his own. He recalled that moment - Bastian stripped from the waist up, those horrible looking cuts on him--- . . . "Sorry." For making Bastian go through that because he was selfish - because they were both selfish. Sure they healed as though nothing had happened. . Sure, as he now knew, Bastian was equally as selfish. . . Hell, was it even about that? . . . Sorry for playing catalyst to that little argument you and your sire had? Sorry for hiding when I should have defended myself - defended you?

. . . Would he have done those things if he did know what they were saying at the time? . . . "Sorry and. . thank you." He nodded his head with the most subtle of movements. "Thank you for . . . for these past few nights. . Which allowed. . . forever." . . Such a gift could surely never be topped, but- "Most importantly. . Thank you for clearing the way so it was all possible--" . . . This regarding Bastian's sire, of course. Doing such things without approval. . . Rather, he knew enough to know about the lack of approval before, but not the extent of it - not the exact words that had been exchanged until a moment previous. Hell, that Bastian's sire was even there was. . . astonishing. "--because. . . if you hadn't, if. . ." there was that stupid word again, " . . you hadn't been selfish - maybe on my behalf, I don't . . know - . . we wouldn't be here, now." He motioned towards the jacket. Houses would come and go, cities and towns. . hell, countries, would come and go. Knowing what they had done - where they had been and what they had to do to get there. . that wouldn't.

But everything that would remain. . ah. That one vampire said such things to his sire, didn't listen to his words. . As if it wasn't impressive enough. If one thing had gone differently that day. . would forever have been possible? "Lastly. . I'm sorry for not saying anything." He smiled - barely, and more at his own foolishness and the reward he got for it anyway - ". . until it all happened. Until. . just a few days ago, really. If I could have said something that day, about how much this all meant to me, I. . ." . . Would have? . . Well, that was the ideal answer, but. . Would he? . . . . Maybe - he'd have wanted to, no doubts there. . but, there are affairs he didn't feel comfortable meddling in - one of which was just this: disagreements between others, which always lead to something like potentially ruining whatever kind of relationship the others had--- . . . Hell, Bastian, you could have ended up shunned-- . . . . . Was that reason to speak up? He'd have hated if that were the case--- . . .

This was all. . . part of the reason he found only himself to blame when it came to this decision - leaving this place and all that came with it behind. He'd never resent Bastian for it even if Bastian did 'take him away'. He'd do this - say . . those pathetic things to his friends tomorrow. . not because Bastian wanted him to - he wouldn't even give them the coins for that reason - but because it was something he wanted to do. Needed to do. So yes, while they would say 'please stay', beg, plead - make horribly convincing cases. . . There was only one thing to say in return: You haven't the right.

He wanted to leave it all - such a disgusting thought. The idea of traveling excited him more and more every time he thought on it - the things they could do, the time they could spend together from now until the very end, doing. . whatever! . . .

Maybe it did make sense. He'd leave because. . because he was selfish, and. . that was it. It wasn't Bastian's fault he found the other absolutely wonderful - no, Bastian wasn't a succubus of any kind. He enjoyed Bastian - loved? Bastian - because . . because he did. It wasn't a spell, wasn't a charm. Bastian was simply best company to keep - company he enjoyed every moment with and never grew tired of. . . . yes, these was all his own thoughts, his own decision. He didn't need to say anything back then during that argument- that silly, selfish vampire had said it all. . . because he wanted to. Because it meant that much to him. . . He almost laughed. How stupid, the both of them were now. . . and how glad he was for it.

He leaned forward - Bastian's jacket still draped over his arm - resting his forehead on Bastian's chest. . . Not that it was any more comforting than any other area - no, thoughts could be shared but not beating hearts. . . "Just. . . thank you." A moment of silence. And another. He was honoured to have this opportunity; nothing more, little less. "Tomorrow will be easier than I thought it'd be. You. . . you mean a lot more to me than you think." . . . Which seemed like a silly thing to say. Bastian would know exactly how Dima thought about him. . . but there were some feelings that simply couldn't be assigned words - mental or literal. And. . maybe Bastian would pick up on those, too - but even those failed to do a proper description of how much Bastian meant, how. . utterly thankful Dima was--

He stepped back, took another look at Bastian. . . and returned the kiss from just minutes before. Seal it with a kiss, finish the deal--- . . ."Tomorrow. . . until forever." That was when everything would be left behind, after all. He smiled broadly - genuinely happy and only experiencing this happiness for the first time since that horrible realization hit - they'd all die and he. . couldn't be around anymore. He was still somewhat upset about what happened with Bastian's sire -- but damned well happy for the outcome. And so he walked back off to the other room - before Bastian could react - to put Bastian's jacket beside his own on the back of the chair. And just waited there because. . . he knew Bastian would come. From tomorrow until forever. . .

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

Bastian stood there in the main hallway after the first kiss, after Dima took the bag. Oh the thoughts where... Amusing, cute in a way. He never realized Dima worried he wouldn't come back. It explained a few things but it made him feel foolish that he never realized that it was even a fear. He smiled though and as Dima left him the smile faded just a bit. "I am sorry... Sorry for making you have to go through this... but I'm not sorry for what we've done... What we've been selfish over..." He paused.. He didn't need to say these things, Dima knew, he knew and it was clear and that was just fine with him. His arms came to fold over his chest and his weight moved to his right foot as he leaned to watch Dima in the living room. Set the bag down, take off the coat... Such a fine coat. He really did look handsome that night and this one too.. The outfit was such a good pick for him - Even if he found most parts of it utterly useless.

"Tomorrow then, I'll be here waiting for you come nightfall... Right in this home after it all. I will be here." He made a silent promise... But Dima knew, though often when you know something it's still nice to hear so Bastian had no real issues saying what he felt often needed to be heard. This was just one of those things - Least that's how he looked at it. Now... Why was he thinking about those events? Bastian frowned a bit and shook his head some but chose to stay silent on the matter. No, he just watched Dima from where he stood. The jacket was laid to rest over the back of a chair, then soon the cravat.... But those thoughts still swam in both of their minds. That fight, that was a pretty bad fight between him and his sire... Ah and now he was sure Dima knew all that was said. He brought a hand up to rub his chin slowly - Keeping his own mind still so not to interrupt what the other was thinking on.

The hand dropped as soon as it had come up as Dima suddenly crossed back other to him and took off his coat. Bastian didn't protest, he turned his arms and slid them out of the jacket for Dima to make his life easier as he did so. "Don't be sorry." He reached out to brush Dima's cheek with the back of his fingers. It was fine, that night. Dima had never seen him yell like that before, never seen him angry before... He couldn't blame Dima for running away from him like he had and never would he if he ran time and again each time he became angry, he just hoped Dima remembered it'd never be pointed at him. Never would he ever be angry at Dima.

... And who's to be sorry for being a little selfish. His whole damn clan where selfish bastards who'd be as cut throat as any pirate to get where they wanted... Money, power, fame - Nothing was out of a ventrue's reach... But Bastian didn't do this out of petty gain, out of wanting more power... Nothing a normal ventrue would go out of his way to do such an act for. He did it because he wanted Dima... He needed to have his company and he wanted to be wanted by the boy... Heh, he needed to be needed - Ironic... Seeing his clan but welcomed... Though it was only something he had encountered with Dima. Never had he ever felt as if he needed to be needed by any other as badly as he wanted Dima to need him... and by god if that made them selfish... If all of this made them so selfish then let him be selfish... He didn't regret it for a moment.

He smiled at the thank you... the forever. "Thank you." Was all he said to that, a your welcome would have been cocky and pompous and he was anything but that at the moment - No, at the moment he was humbled. "Dima... What I did that night I'd do again and again to be sure we'd end up where we are now... Just the same. I will defend you to anyone who questions me on it... Even my kin, my sire... That will never change." He watched Dima motion around with a light nod. "Please don't be sorry about that.. You where scared and I can't blame you for reacting the way you did." Even if he had ended up shunned... Outcasted... He wouldn't have stopped walking the path they'd chosen to walk.

His hands came to rest on Dima's shoulders at first, as he came to rest on his chest, but they soon then moved into a light hug- a soft embrace if you will while the other spoke. "You mean a fair greater deal to me then you realize too, Dima. He smiled lightly.. So much to say and to be left unsaid and then so much no words could ever mold to sound right... Such a complex thing. "I'm glad tomorrow will be easy for you... I hate to see you... Hell.. to feel you in pain

He took his arms away when Dima moved, smiling at the kiss but folding his arms once again. The smile was returned with one of Bastian's genuine smiles. A tilt of the head and a true smile.. One that almost showed his fangs but not quite - A rare smile. As Dima moved away to put the jacket with the other, before he could even say a word, he chose to follow, taking off her cravat and the vest, setting them over the arm of the chair then started to work on the button's of his shirt, removing each one from it's home as he watched Dima, standing close to him once again. "Tomorrow and until forever and if we can manage it - Far beyond that. I will always seek another tomorrow, if not for the sake of ourselves then for the chance to see you... Hear you." chuckles. To see you smile just once more."

Ah Dima did seem to bring out the hopeless romantic in him. The shirt hung open now, though to much of Dima's pleasure and a deal of Bastian's own - There was no wound among the chest.. even though it was a cross and took longer to mend it was gone now at least. "So, then it's to Poland after tomorrow and then to Germany, France and then... Hell wherever we want. Perhaps we'll meet more kindred in our travels." That would be interesting least he thought so.

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

He had been little short of wrong in his assessment. . . and yet, things were easier. How he'd have gotten through it without his little epiphany the previous night he didn't know. He was tired, still somewhat weakened, used to a nocturnal schedule, and saying things he didn't want to. . great. Not that he slept much at all - just for an hour or two post sunrise. They'd have gotten up then, awoken their families, and begun to work fields and take care of whatever needs the animals would have. He'd wait - it gave him those few precious moments of sleep and some time to contemplate as well -- which was always a dangerous thing.

"Hello," a bit of a smile - nothing too impressive, just keep things casual. . . Such a simple remark was met with a slew of questions - Where were you? How have you been? What are you doing here? . . Which were met with coy answers - Somewhere, Alright, Not too much. . . No use dragging the conversation out - might spill too much. At the very least his head was clear - things were. . uncomplicated on that front, though he almost wished that weren't the case. It would have been nice to have had someone else to speak to-- there was this. . realization that he had to do this all alone. "Do you need help?" They always needed help. It was too much work for them to do alone. Hard work - even for him. . He didn't miss it.

And that was how he spent most of his day. The early evening brought a communal get together - shared dinner, a 'family' time for a group of misfits and people who were utterly lacking. By this time most of his friends - those who were still alive, anyway - were considered the "men" of their respective households, most parents long since gone. They sat at one end of the table - the women, who had prepared the meal, at the other. . . the children, due to a lack of chairs, sat on the floor. Having no family of his own -- Dima joined them. Not that he had to, one of the women should have given up their seat but. . . It really didn't matter and he wasn't one to impose. Children were short, though, which made things more than a bit awkward. "Suppose I should lie down then-" Which he did, lying on his stomach, weight shifted to his elbows.

Some of the children took this as an invitation to sit on his back. Again he didn't mind, welcomed it, even - as long as they took turns so nobody would complain. Idle chatter was prevalent, the children talking about whatever came to mind. Dima played along - offering little tidbits of conversation whenever he felt he had something useful to say. Even that was a bit of a task, the children constantly interrupting - changing the topic faster than he could keep up -- and the one currently on his back seemed to enjoy taking the hair out of his face. She pulled back his bangs, separating them into two clumps which she kept in each of her hands - "Pigtails!" she mused, pulling, which prompted him to tilt his head back so he could see the girl looking down on him. "Ah, not quite. . . not quite. It's a bit short for that, don't you think so?" But she shook her head and he couldn't help but to smile. "If you say so."

His looking down caused her to release the short locks, causing an upset sigh. "Now now. . Let me eat my dinner okay? Then. . I have something nice for you." She smiled, even clapped her hands together gleefully at the idea of presents. . The children continued to talk, and Dima finished the rest of his meal - which, with the meager portions, didn't take long at all - in silence. He'd need to eat more later - though he was very courteous towards his host for the meal, thanking them profoundly at every opportunity he could. He instructed the child to get off, and rolled onto his back letting out a slight exhausted sigh. "Just give me a minute, then it'll be present time - I promise."

The same child took the opportunity to place herself on his stomach much to his dismay. "Ah, I don't get a break?" She shook her head, laughing, 'Now you can't move!' . . Well then. "Can't move, can I. .? Guess I can't do this, then~" With that, he picked her up over his head, holding her around the stomach. She flailed a bit, obviously enjoying the experience, before just letting her arms stay out from her sides. 'Flying~!' She laughed. "You can't have presents if you're up in the air, though. . ." She seemed upset by this fact, arms now falling, dangling limply. 'Then you'll just have to put me down.' He nodded, "Suppose I will."

He placed her down to his side before sitting up himself. In his seated position he was still at eye level with her -- such a sad looking thing. She was the oldest of three girls - herself only 5 years old. . and probably would end up having more siblings until a son was born. Such was how things worked - families needed male children to help with the outside work. Even now she looked dirty, uncared for and ragged in comparison to the people in Bastian's world. . But he knew this wasn't the case. The child was probably given everything her parents could afford - as were all the other children from their respective families. "Tell you what. . " he started, whispering in her ear, "You gather your friends and meet me in the other room. Can you do that?" She nodded - a gesture he returned. ". . But you have to bring all of them, alright?" She nodded again. "Don't leave a single one in here. I'll count to make sure nobody was left behind!" . . All ten-five of them. . . Although ten-five had another name, now.

Sure enough, all ten-five of them met in the other room within a few minutes. "One, two-- . . . Ah, you're all here. Good." The girl smiled at a job well done - Dima petting ruffling the unkempt hair on the top of her head in satisfaction. "You kept your end of the deal, so, I'll give you your present first. But. . .!" The girl leaned in closer, waiting to hear the condition, "You have to do me a favour, too. Is that okay?" She nodded - and then turned to face the other children who all seemed to be in agreement. "You have to share with your parents. And. . You have to give them a secret message, too. Can you still do it?" They seemed more reluctant before giving the 'okay' nod. But secrets were such fun things -- they seemed excited to hear what that could possibly be.

Starting with the girl, he called them up one at a time giving them a handful of coins each from the coin bag. Some didn't know what to make of the 'gift' - it barely seemed like something useful. . Others admired the shine and glitter of the coins, while others still knew exactly what the circular objects were and stared wide eyed. Questions like 'Where'd you find it?' he ignored, opting to just shake his head instead. "I kept my end of the deal so you have to keep yours. Share." Again, he was met with reluctant head nodding. "And now for the secret. . ."

~*~

When he got back home it was already well into the evening. He had some regrets - mainly not being able to visit the Polkovnik's widow and her child before returning, but they didn't need the funding, no. . and he had already caused them enough trouble after his vanishing act. He had no right to reappear there. His other regret was not being able to tell his friends himself that he was going - leaving that task up to the children. Such was the secret - not a very good secret but a momentary secret all the same - 'I'm going away - Please accept this as a thank you for everything.' He figured they'd have heard the news by now - the evening festivities over, the children now tucked away in bed.

Dima was hungry - the meal wasn't really enough for a normal human (something he found most unfortunate) let alone a shifter - and he was tired, too. Returning to that home of theirs was the most comforting experience he had all night. . . more comforting still when Bastian was waiting as promised. He stood in the doorway for a moment, arms crossed, weight shifted to his left leg. . . and just stared for a moment, blankly - not surprised but not really certain on anything, either. He was there. As promised. Still such a strange concept to Dima. . . Especially since everything had been finalized - the promise fulfilled. Not that he had any reason to doubt - but. . "You're here."

. . Stating the obvious, how stupid. Of course he was there - of bloody course. He took off his jacket and hung it in the entrance way - it was nothing fancy, and quite dirty at this point so there was no need to tarnish the interior of the house with it. Next came his shoes. The rest he left on - though he took extra care to not sit on any surface other than the floor for the moment - even a bit scared to hug Bastian. . Oh, he wanted to, but he figured he had better change first. Maybe even shower. "You know, I--" . . . didn't quite do what I said I was going to? No. . No, that wouldn't be right. s**t - Bastian could be listening in on this anyway. "--We can go anytime you want now." He decided that phrasing was best. "Everything's been taken care of." He nodded slightly - slowly. . . sadly. To hell with it. He hugged Bastian tightly - to hell with all of it, the shower, the dirty clothes. "It was hard." He finally said, faintly, almost inaudibly. "I didn't -- I couldn't-- . . . No, no they know." He inhaled - exhaled. . still keeping the embrace. "It's finished." . . He just. . took the easier way out. If they didn't know until the end. . they never had the chance to question it.

[DeliriumNitemare]

xxxx♕Bastian Skeffington♕xxxx

♕♕

✯ Regere sanguine, regere in veritatem est. - To rule through blood is to rule in truth✯

Bastian rose to find the home empty in the early evening... But he knew where Dima was and he knew he was safe - For now he closed their mental link so not to bother him as he took on a most... Difficult task. Once he finally got out of bed he showered and dressed then started to pack their things - Sure, yes, they'd be seeing the world... So much of it to cover and so much time to do it in... But he didn't want their things to be stolen while they where away... But packing for the trip came first. He packed for himself, then for Dima... Some of his nice clothes then some of his more relaxed clothes - Since he knew Dima wouldn't want to be fancy all the time... He knew he'd do it for him but it was nice to let him wear what he wanted to for a change. So he packed, and packed well. Thick things, light things, things to read... and then, in his own luggage - a book which Dima would know about by now.

It was a memory keeper, so to say. One he'd kept since the night he was sired and planned to continue to keep until there was no way for him to keep a memory book anymore. His sire had once said to him it is the best way to keep one's memories in order as they got older... Bastian took such a thing to heart in his early nights and started one. The first handful of pages where dated, sorrow filled, and regretted... He wished he could have taken his children with him, seen them... But knew better. There where questions too - About his wife's faithful ways... Their other kids... Questions he felt he had the answers to now simply because of time... Realization... He was sure they weren't his... Very sure, but none of them would be alive now to ask. It covered his life, when Dima walked into it, what roads they walked, hell when other vampires and people walked in and out of his life and it'd continue to cover such things.

... Perhaps he'd get one for Dima to do the same, it'd give him a reason to practice writing. With a smile he sat to write on it's, for now, barely yellowed pages an entry for the night and once the ink dried he packed it away as well. Moving their bags for the trip to the front of the house... Then came the rest of the house. What he hadn't packed save for clothes for tomorrow night where packed away, their belongings, and anything loose and... Well easily stolen, things that meant the world to them - like Dima's trunk of trinkets or Bastian's family heirlooms. All packed away into boxes, with careful thought. Preparations where made to have them shipped back to his home in Germany - His sire would put them in the house... He knew their worldly things would be safer there where his home rested rather then here where Dima's rouge friends could easily take them if they wanted to.

Not that he'd be giving up the house, he did like it... And if they ever came back they'd have a place to stay - Which was very nice indeed... But the packing took up a better part of the night. He sighed and smoothed a hand over his white period shirt, sleeves fluttering upward with the wind from the motion, he was now getting worried... It was getting late and Dima was still not back... Though he didn't think his friends would let him leave so easy. Shaking his head he made one last pass through the house but paused as the front door came open, he smiled seeing Dima and straightened himself - Even pushed hair from his own face to look more presentable. "Of course I'm here, I promised you I would be Dima." He chuckled lightly...

... Why was he so dirty?

Bastian tilted his head to the side and watched the jacket come off, then the shoes as Dima stood in the house's walk way. The mental path still closed he didn't hear the inner conflict of Dima's thoughts but... Was quite caught off guard by the sudden tight hug. Shifters could be very strong creatures when they wished or didn't mean to be and Bastian's spine was realizing this now. Biting his lip he hugged Dima back... Though he was dirty which was in turn making him dirty... "I'm sorry Dima... I'm sorry..." He swallowed and frowned allowing the link to open back up... Which he wasn't sure if he should regret that or not... The sorrow he felt seemed to make it all the worse. "We'll leave early tomorrow, everything is ready here... We will just... Go tomorrow." He rubbed the other's back comfortingly, reassuringly... Gently leading him through the house. It was late and Dima was tired, he could feel that much... He needed to eat and to rest... For tomorrow was going to be such a long trip.


*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Bastian stood outside with one arm crossed and holding his elbow while the other hand held his chin. He was watching the carriage take off into the night with their worldly things he had packed up the night before. He just hoped they'd get to where he needed them to get and to hell with anyone who took a thing. He'd find them himself and end them. His attention turned to the one they'd be taking. Their bags packed away - Hell he wasn't even taking his coffin, that got sent back to Germany, So the trip was going to be a bit on the risky side... He knew it, as did Dima... but it wasn't like he used the damn thing now... He always slept with Dima in the same bed, they'd just have to make sure the hotel rooms where covered well and that no one bothered them during the day.

Fixing his cravat he looked at Dima and smiled softly. "Into forever then." He mused and opened the carriage door for Dima, waiting for him to climb in before following him. They'd be going into Poland first, as they planned, and by carriage he figured it wouldn't take very long - shorter then it took Dima on foot to get there to say the least... But just long enough for them both to probably be very bored of the bumpy ride and their backs to hurt to boot. The ride was... Pretty bumpy and snow filled. Bastian spent most of it reading or toying with Dima's hair as he watched the world go by out their blackened windows. He sometimes missed the sun... But he could see such things through Dima now... Those lovely colors and that forgotten blue.

There were yet countries to pass through between Dima's motherland Russia and Poland... Places that wouldn't be countries for years to come... But they passed through the land all the same... Straight into Poland. The hour they got their left... At least Bastian ... Little time to do anything. If there was a Prince in Poland he would have to wait until the following night when the dawn wasn't at their heels. So into the hotel with their things they went and Bastian pretty much dropped onto the bed with a heavy sigh.... Of course this was after he sun blocked the whole room. Kicking off his shoes he smiled, lightly, at Dima. "Don't wonder too far. We don't know Polish and we're not presented to the Prince nor you to the Alpha male... We could both be in grand trouble if we upset anyone here... Assuming there are such powers in play. not every place has a Prince and not every place has an Alpha pack." Not in these nights, but in modern nights there would be.

He settled onto the bed, he knew Dima would wonder out to eat and see things and that was just fine - He'd be able to do the same the following night... "Please don't get lost... I don't want to see you hurt." But he figured Dima would be sleeping with him for now... The trip was long after all. "Come rest mein liebe, I'm sure you're just as tired as I am..." Besides, little to their realization - And sooner to Dima's then probably Bastian's... There where vampires in this city... Just living in a more unfortunate circumstance then even Dima's fellow friends back in Russia.

✯You will do as I say, or you will die as I say.✯

[Sears Nazi]

Дмитрий Иларий Александров

☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽☽⊙☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾☾

Long trips were cause for deep contemplation -- nothing looked familiar and yet it all did. . It was just some strange oxymoron he didn't wish to think on if he didn't have to. Worse than that was his thoughts about what he had done the night previous - was that really the best way to go about things? . . Not that it really mattered now. He just hoped the children had done what they were instructed to do . . and that his friends weren't stupid enough to blow all the money in one place.

Yes, the trip and those familiarly unfamiliar things only served to remind him of them -- a thought that would pop up and vanish just as quickly as soon as Bastian moved. . did something, said something. This broke up the humdrum quality of the trip - disturbed the thoughts and. . made him happy. Behind them was everything that he had to leave. . things he'd probably never be able to go back to, no matter if he ever physically went back or not -- . . things would be different by then. To his side, however - . . . Bastian - he was the new constant, and thus the person who would always be there. Over time he'd pick up the more subtle things - perhaps not understand Bastian more, but know he'd do certain things at certain times. . and sometimes even the whys of it all. Little, stupid. . insignificant things. Every moment an important tell tale sign - every minute shift in position a part of what made Bastian who he was.

It was easy to observe during a trip so long - easier still when he was so glad knowing he'd have such simple yet meaningful things to look forward to with each passing night. . . and he would never grow tired of it. Even as he came to anticipate certain actions more -- he'd still watch them, if not because Bastian did them, then because he wanted to see how they differed from the last. It was meaningful to him - being able to differentiate between two similar actions. . if only because it meant he 'knew' a bit more. Not understood, but knew. In that way, he was thankful for the long trip. . though he wouldn't say this aloud - it was something too stupid to speak on. . and Bastian, if he wanted, would know anyway. He hadn't complained yet---

Visiting Princes seemed like such a strange thing to do - and tiresome. Checking in with the prince of every possible domain. . Even knowing that there were more packs out there - and not in Russia - was a curiosity. No - he knew they existed, but hadn't an idea what they were like. . and it wasn't like there was much to know about vampire princes either. Their jobs - sure. It'd be similar to what Zakahr had to do. . but, they couldn't all. . actually be like Zakahr, could they? . . Hardly. Especially not since Bastian would be a Prince one day - and he most certainly would never be like Zakahr. . . Dima hoped. He'd do his best to prevent something like that from happening, at least, it would be one of his personal jobs as the knight--or, no, hound.

Deciding it best not to dwell on the thought he kicked off his own shoes - curious how feet could get hurt without actually using them much - and onto the bed he went, right next to Bastian. He looked around the room - now completely dark, of course - eyes adjusting to the lighting shift. . it didn't take long - hadn't for a while. He was far too accustomed to it. He only wished there was time to see more after a short nap - ah, he was far too tired to go out exploring for now - but. . that'd have to wait. "I wouldn't wander around without you," he stated, matter-of-factly. "There would be no point in seeing the world if you aren't there to see it with me." Now, there were shared experiences. . and 'stolen' experiences. He didn't want Bastian's early memories and experiences of Poland to not be his own. Besides, he wanted Bastian in his memories. . beside him, as he had been on the way there. That was the only way--

. . . And if not that, would it not be lonely wandering around a foreign place? Bastian had a point - he didn't understand the language and it wasn't as though he'd have enough time or resources to pick it up in such short notice. . . Even with Bastian he didn't fully understand the other's language until the forth mark was completed. Away from home, away from friends - or. . . just away from Bastian, seeing how he was his 'friends' now. . . He couldn't stand it. Couldn't deal with it. That's right -- there was no point in seeing the world - their first task for this 'eternity' - if Bastian wasn't there to do it with him. In fact, the only reason he saw himself leaving - and he would do this, he'd have to eventually - would be to grab a bite to eat. On the way. . he'd probably look around - see what Poland had to offer, but. . never go out of his way, seek out the 'attractions', or stray from the main areas. . Bastian would have to be there for that.

Even then, he'd wait for Bastian to fall asleep - and probably fall asleep with him, if only for a couple of hours - then begin the quest for food. . . and so the request for some 'resting' was more than welcome. He relaxed a bit, stretching out his limbs before settling into a comforting position. . then inched his way closer to Bastian, putting an arm around him and even pulling him in slightly as so he could rest his head on his chest. . Bastian seemed to enjoy doing such things - and it was a position Dima found he enjoyed from time to time as well. He just lay there for a moment - the idea that the 'eternity' and their travels had already begun still filling him with such awe and wonderment. . It must have seemed silly, being so happy over something that . . when he thought of the span of forever - was actually quite petty and trite. "I won't . . get lost." No - not when he barely wanted to leave the room while Bastian couldn't. Get food, go back. "What do you think we'll see?"

What had Poland to offer? . . And what were the vampires like - if there were any nearby. That was. . still somewhat disturbing to him - vampires. Checking in with vampires and getting 'okays' from vampires. . . Especially because he still doubted they'd all be fine with him. It'd never work that way - that was only the most ideal of circumstance. If one day there was a problem because of what he was. . and how he - rather closely - associated himself with Bastian. . He. . didn't know what he'd do. And so vampires - in spite of knowing for sure that there were great ones - were still reason to be weary. He shut his eyes - tuning both the world and the thought of the other vampires out. . . He wanted only to focus on Bastian - the most 'real' thing there, as validated by his own touch-- . . Beside his head he put a hand - keeping it still as possible as though trying to feel Bastian breathe even though he knew it probably wouldn't happen. Still, he felt himself fading out of consciousness slowly. . He'd probably be asleep around the same time Bastain was if not sooner.

"Thanks." he said - again, it seemed like - . . except this time there was no particular reason. Thanks for letting me lay on your chest? For . . being here? . . Certainly not for the eternity as he had already thanked Bastian for that time and time again. . No. . this was more a 'thanks for the moment' sort of thing - that exact, single moment. . Simply because it allowed for him to stay where he was - as he was. . On the first night. . of their first task. . of eternity.