Why Stay?
AUTHOR'S Note: Updated version of chapter two, again I added a few things to the storyline and gave it a few tweaks, but other than that the basic plot remains the same. I can't tell you how important it is to review especially for a writer such as myself; it really does help ignite the storyline not to mention it keeps me going. Anyways without further ado here's chapter two. (03/03/2015)
Rated: M for language.
Parings: Patience. Read on
Updates: ASAP
Timeline: AU: End of Season Two (Without Bill getting taken)
Disclaimer: Again I Do Not OWN Anything... Which is truly unfortunate. Because then I would be rich XD
Chapter Two: The Beginning And End of Freedom
I drive around what I think is Shreveport. Honestly I can't remember all the towns I've past through in the last two weeks. This was supposed to be a 'vacation', or so I told my mother, but this was far from it. What she didn't know was that I was on a mission to find information on a certain vampire – during which I had the luxury of sleeping in my car during the daylight hours. Even though I'm on my way back home, I have a feeling that I'm more stressed now than I was leaving.
"Fuck." I curse loudly to myself, my eyes remaining glued to the road before me. God only knows how badly I needed a drink right now.
After what seemed like an eternity of speeding down the highway, my silent prayer was answered when a bright red neon sign reading 'Fangtasia' caught my eye. Incredulously pulling over into the break down lane, I hit my hazard lights. Easing myself back against my custom bucket seat I studying the sign in disbelief.
'Is this coincidence or fate . . .?'
I lean over the console of my car and open the glove compartment. Searching its contents thoroughly, I finally find what I was looking for; a black business card having only the name 'Fangtasia' written upon the glossy surface.
With a sad smile I let my fingertips graze over the card delicately, my mind wandering back to the last time I saw Him. Before he left he had given this to me. . No address no indication where it was, nothing. He didn't even tell me who to contact, only a number scribbled on the back that wasn't his own. His only and last words to me were 'If you find yourself in dire need, do not hesitate. You will know when it is time my little one, I have faith in you.' After that his gave my forehead a farewell kiss and left.
That was two months ago though. Never did I think it was for good, even now I find myself thinking he'll come back. He's my future Maker, my teacher, my brother he wouldn't leave me behind, not after everything we've been through. . .
Of course I could've looked up the bar on Google, but that was going to be my last resort. 'Guess I won't have to wait anymore.' Looking back to the business card then to the billboard I begin debating with myself.
'Am I really even considering going into this vampire bar unaccompanied? Was it time like he said? It's been two months - and I did say I needed a drink. . .'
Releasing a heavy sigh I turn off my hazard lights, entering the highway once more. I allow myself no time to rethink my destination. 'Why should I be afraid? It's not like I haven't met a vampire before.' Amused by the thought I quickly scan the road, carelessly cutting across two lanes of traffic and taking the proper exit.
After turning onto the wrong street and wandering around, I actually had to ask my GPS for directions. With its turn by turn direction, I was able to drive into the parking lot within a few minutes. The parking lot I found was empty save for a couple of abandoned cars so glancing towards the entrance curiously I check the hours.
'Fangtasia:
The Bar With A Bite
Doors Open At 10pm
Fangtasia Bar and Nightclub:
Shreveport's First Vampire Friendly Establishment.'
"Hmm… its 9:27 now so I have about thirty minutes." I tell myself as I read my watch. In a way I'm glad I am early since I have time to change my clothes. Looking down at my plain jeans and black t-shirt I sigh, not really comfortable changing in public. But, then again what the Hell.
I exit the car, popping open my trunk in the process. I begin to sort through my suitcase, trying to find an appropriate outfit. I didn't have many clean clothes as it was, so I'd have to suck it up tomorrow and find to a laundry mat on my way home. Looking over my options carefully, I had to make sure that I would blend in, presenting myself as just another 'fangbanger'. I didn't need to draw more unnecessary attention to myself then I already would. I always did when I was in the company of vampires, something about my scent called to them, making me a living vampire magnet.
Even so, I would be lying to myself if I said a part of me was not excited. I've always been curious about vampire bars, but it was one of the top rules He put in place after the great revelation. 'For my own safety' He assured me every time I tried to get him to cede to my request. After vampires 'came out of the coffin' or so they humorously put it, He made sure I didn't get caught up in the hype. I was one of the few who knew about the existence of vampire before the revelation; and because I was not yet turned, it would put us both in danger if someone found out. I knew the truth about a lot of things; one of the more important ones was that true blood was just an illusion. A security blanket of sorts for humans, they wanted to believe that vampires could control their thirst with this synthetic blood. When in reality vampires have only advanced in their ability to hide who they've been eating for centuries.
"Here goes nothing." Releasing a small breath I kick off my sneakers and throw them into the trunk, my eyes roaming the dark parking lot. I couldn't shake the feeling that someone was there, watching from behind one of the many trees that surrounded the club. Thankfully I wasn't able to pick up on a presence close by, indicating my fear was pointless. Putting it off as paranoia, I hit play on my iPod. Listening to 'One Track Mind' by Papa Roach, I pull off my jeans, letting the music relax me as I undress. I grab my pair of skin tight, dark wash jeans and put them on knowing that they showed off my curves and my long, toned legs perfectly. Once they were securely in place, I sit down in the back seat of my car, pulling on my all black, knee high, converse all-star boots. I hate to lace these things up, it always takes me forever, but they're comfortable, not to mention the heels are almost nonexistent. I tend to be clumsy when I get antsy, or after a few drinks, so I don't want to take a chance. With my luck I would trip inside the club and start bleeding.
I stand as I notice cars beginning to fill the parking lot. Mumbling a few curses I quickly pull off my t-shirt and replace it with a black, low cut tank top, with simple yet erratic pale yellow designs. Pulling on my lightweight, dark grey Italian leather jacket, I zip up the asymmetrical zipper and smile to myself remembering the day I received it. My vampire always had good taste when it came to clothes or any gift for that matter, but he always spent too much.
Shutting off my iPod I pocket it with my money and free my hair from its clip. Choosing to keep my hair down I run my fingers through my thick blond strands, and let it rest on my shoulder. After I quickly apply my make-up – to ensure my Goth/Fangbanger look -I go to my opened trunk. Shuffling my suitcase to the back I open a small compartment hidden in the left side.
'Better to be safe than sorry, I guess.'
Grabbing a pocket knife made purely from silver I hide it within the confines of my right boot and unzip my jacket pocket, adding in a small spray can of liquid silver. Finished and finding myself decent, I look to the line forming by the entrance, while I zip my pocket close. Unable to stop a small grin from appearing, I quickly compose my features. 'I'm only here to check this place out, and then I'll grab a drink and leave'
I release a sigh as I wait in the line. Holding my I.D securely, I listen to the music floating around the bar, trying to drown out the fangbangers around me.
"I can't wait till I get in! Tonight is gonna be the night I catch Northman's attention!" An apparently over-excited girl squealed out.
I raise an eyebrow at the young fangbanger in front of me, resisting the urge to roll my eyes. Was she truly that desperate to gain one man's attention?
"Not if I can help it, Slut. I saw him first!" Someone behind me yelled in obvious jealousy.
'
Oh great.' Shifting my gaze towards the woman behind me, I look her over surreptitiously. She almost looked anorexic, but her curves balanced her body. She was covered in skimpy black leather, and her almost jet black hair was tied back in a high ponytail.
I would be lying if I said she wasn't pretty. So I didn't understand why she would be desperate to be with one man. I've heard of a vampire named Northman…his first name escapes me though. But still, I don't get what the fuss was. Who cares who has his attention? But then again vampire sex was supposed to be phenomenal, and it only got better as the vampire ages.
"Bitch, Who the Hell do you think you is? Look at yourself and look at me."
I sigh heavily through my nose as I watch the young fangbanger take a step closer to the woman, and quickly flanked by her friends. 'I just have to be between these two brainless fangbangers. My luck never changes.' The young fangbanger stops before me, and with a dismissive look in my direction, she waits for me to step aside.
Now the natural thing for a normal person would be to step aside so that she could pass. However, I was not normal. She was waiting in vain if she thought that I would step aside for her, let alone anyone else.
"Move." She demanded as her narrow eyes glare into mine angrily.
I raise an eyebrow at her, a small smirk surfacing on my lips, as I watch her with indifference. "I will do no such thing. You hold no authority over me and to be quite honest, you do not intimidate me." My eyes turn cold, showing my annoyance as I look from her to her friends. "I would suggest you turn around now. And do not bother me further, or I fear you might come to regret it." I gave her a bored look, daring her to test me and using the same tone as I did when dealing with vampires.
"You're full of shit! Let me pass, you bitch!" She took a step closer, trying to match my glare.
Inwardly I was amused; this girl had been obviously glamoured one too many times. Matching her step, I square my shoulders leaning in closer. "I am not, and if you want to pass so badly then go around." I look off to the side to emphasize my point before returning my gaze. "But don't be foolish enough to think that move for anyone. You included." I take another step closer, our noses three inches apart as I continue. "I would only be too happy to see them refuse your entrance because you stupidly started a fight."
I spoke calmly, my eyes held her gaze, and glanced back to her friends – who had wisely stepped away from their friend. "I will not warn you a second time. . . Now turn around. "Making sure none of the women could argue further, I project my demands into their thought pattern. Now allowing me to control them as I see fit, their next movements would look as though they decided to heed my words rather than them being 'glamoured' into doing so. Usually I would not allow myself to control people in public, but I was in no mood to fight.
Giving the impression that I had grown tired of the young fangbangers, I look off to the side expressionlessly.
"Humph. Bitch." The lead fangbanger grumbled but turned around none the less, taking a step into the club after showing her I.D.
"What a whore." The woman behind me all but growled out, before flicking her ponytail in annoyance.
Rolling my eyes I take a step forward, looking to the woman at the door. She too was dressed in what looked like a BDSM leather outfit. She wore a leather bustier that pushed up her assets, causing the top of her breasts to swell over the top and a pair of skin tight leather pants that clung to her like a second skin. She had long golden hair that reached just below her shoulders and black eye make-up that contrasted against her bright blue eyes and pale skin. Picking up on the aura around her I knew immediately knew she was a vampire, and a strong one for her age. So deciding to play it safe I keep my guard up as I approach her.
She caught me studying her and replied with a silent sly grin, her fangs exposing themselves as she looks me over. "Well… Aren't you the lil feisty one tonight. I thought for sure I would have a fight to break up." Wearing a bored expression, she would hold out her hand, "Let me see your I.D darling."
I silently hand her my I.D, noticing the hunger behind her eyes as she watches me. Ignoring her remark, I wait to enter the club.
"Mm… Atallie Stanton…" She looked back up to me for a moment before her eyes widened, losing the boredom in her tone for a moment. "Is that a Forzieri Italia leather jacket?"
Looking down at my jacket I shrug my shoulders in a nonchalant manner and nod, "Yeah, it was a gift."
"Designer clothes to match." She mused to herself as her eyes caught mine once more. "My, my where have you been hiding." Scanning my I.D again her eyebrow quirked "You're quite far from home… What brings you to Fangtasia this evening? Other than making my night . . . Oh and well ruining my fun of course."
"You're Fun?" I raise an eyebrow slightly wondering what type of fun she had in mind.
"Obviously watching the pathetic blood bags fight over Eric." She answered in a bored tone, her own smirk growing. "They tend to get bloody."
"Eric?" I question for a moment, but let it go deciding I didn't care who he was. "If she didn't demand for me to move then I would have stayed out of it. It was her mistake, I could have cared less if they killed each other over a one night stand."
"I see…" She looked at me thoughtfully for a moment, and shrugs her shoulders, "You didn't answer my questions Miss Stanton." She smirked as she waited for my response, a semi amused expression breaking through her usual bored one.
"What questions were those?" I asked innocently, my eyes traveling around her and towards the door.
She of course caught on because she simply raised an eyebrow at me, a look of irritation plastered onto her features. Shifting her gaze, she catches my own and instantly I felt the pull of her glamour tugging at my shields.
'Shit. Now I'm forced to fake being glamoured. Great job Atallie, this is another reason why I'm not allowed to be around too many vampires.'
"Why are you here?" She repeated, her voice calm, as her eyes held mine in an attempt to mesmerize me into giving her an answer.
Instantly I made my eyes go blank, allowing a dull, lifeless voice to surface as I answered. "I was curious… I wanted a drink but mostly I wanted to see the inside of a vampire bar."
She looked at me with a cocked eyebrow, as though she did not believe my words before pushing it to the side and asking another question. "How did you come across Fangtasia, you are from Massachusetts correct?"
I nod once, hoping she wouldn't interrogate me further. "Yes I am. I saw an advertisement as I was driving."
"I see…" At that she finally released me from her glamour, watching me with disinterest as I blinked a few times signaling that I was in control once more.
Looking off to the side for a moment she would then extend her hand towards me, returning my I.D with a smirk. "I never forget a pretty face. You'll always be in my vault, Miss Stanton, you should consider yourself lucky... Now go on inside."
I tilt my head to the side in question, not liking that I was now in 'her vault'. With my I.D returned I take a step towards the club. Only to be stopped once more when the blond vampire decides to lean in, whispering softly in my ear as I pass. "I was entertained by your performance in the parking lot… I hope to have a private show next time."
My eyes widen in shock as a blush raises to my cheeks realizing that she saw me change into my club appropriate attire. "…H-how much did you see?" Embarrassed I stand in front of the blond vampire, frozen and awaiting her answer.
"Enough. But that doesn't mean I can't see more." She smirks, giving me a full view of her fangs before waving me off dismissively her expression returning to one of disinterest. "See you soon."
With a curt nod I look to the entrance, silently walking towards my destination. A Feeling that I should turn back, that I should leave while I still can invaded me. Usually I would follow my instincts; they have saved me more times than I can remember. Yet, at this moment I find myself unable to leave, because even though my instinct told me to leave, something else has a pull on me, causing me to continue.
'There's no going back now.' I tell myself, and without a second glance I find myself within Fangtasia, my blue eyes glued to the scene before me.
NEXT TIME:Fangtasia
Was this what human's really pictured vampires as? But what I expecting, humans usually tend to have over active imaginations. And this bar seemed to play on them. I mean a dais with a throne no less? But the blond man sitting upon it was a different story. Who is he . . . it seemed everyone tended to gravitate towards him. And he's definitely is the oldest one in this bar. . . Was this the guy the fangbangers were fighting over? . . . Oh shit. . Did he just scan over me a third time? What exactly did I get myself into . . .?
