Title?

author: viorica

Synopsis: My take on what happens after Conclave. Because I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait for next season to see what happens. Also, I'm a shipper, and I'm DAMN PROUD of it.

Chapter One

"Now," Marcus said, taking her chin between his thumb and forefinger. "I'd like to ask you a question."

"Mmm-hmm." she replied absently, tilting her head, enjoying his touch.

The next thing she knew, her face was twisted around so that she was staring up into Marcus's angry eyes. Angry, and glinting with what might have been tears.

"How long have you been working for Blade?" he growled.

She blinked up at him with wide eyes. "You're hurting me!"

"Answer me!"

"S-since before you turned me." she stammered. "After- well, what the hell was I supposed to do? Just because I'd been turned into one of you-"

He released her suddenly, so suddenly that she stumbled. He took her forearms gently, steadying her. "I understand why you did it." His voice was soft, sad even. "You had an excuse. Chase didn't."

"Do you really think she's alive?"

"I don't know." He sighed. "But you're right about one thing, Krista. I'll have to underground for a while." he took her face in his hands and nuzzled her. "You won't see me for a while."

"But . . ." Her eyes swam with tears. Separation, yes, she had been prepared for that. But not to see him at all? "How long?"

He shook his head regretfully. "A few months. Six, maybe."

"Si-" She closed her eyes briefly. "I want to go with you."

"You can't."

"But-"

"Krista," His voice was firmer now. "It's not safe for you. Go back to the hotel. Law low there. You'll see me again, I promise. Just- not right now."

She took a shaky breath, and laid her head against his shoulder. He put his arms around her. No words were said, but as he turned and left, Krista felt that they had been allowed a proper goodbye. She just prayed, to whatever God they had left that it wouldn't be for good.

(this would be a scene break if the stupid website hadn't eaten it)

She got quite a few strange looks when she arrived back at the hotel, and a few of the more daring even tried to ask her a question. She ignored them all, going straight to her room and lying down on the bed, absently tracing the wrinkles in the pillowcase with her fingers. She and Marcus had been here- had it really been only been few weeks ago? She remembered him, every detail, and she reached up automatically to clutch at the necklace. She swallowed and blinked fiercely against the impending sobs. She would not cry.

She sat upright when a knock came at the door, hoping against hope. "Marcus?" she called uncertainly.

The door swung open. It was Sabine, bearing a small scrap of paper in her hand. Krista's heart resumed its position somewhere in the pit of her stomach.

"Mr. Van Sciver called." Sabine dropped the paper on the end table. "He asked me to give you this message. What happened up there? There've been rumours flying around all day."

"Please," Krista said quietly, closing her eyes. "I'd like to be alone for a while."

Sabine nodded, and backed out of the room, closing the door softly. Krista picked up the paper from the bedside table and scanned it. It contained only one line.

Don't forget to drink.

Krista burst into tears.