The rest of the morning he held her within his arms. Watching her fall asleep as he felt the comforts of being together once again. His only thoughts were of her and what she must have been dreaming. Did she dream of him? Were they always the happiest of memories? He had given her all a man could give and then some. He gave her his whole existence. She was not only his wife, but his Queen. Their reign may have been short lived but their time together was eternal.
When the sun rose high in the sky, it was time to part from her before the stained windows could no longer hold back the Sun from his eyes. To disturb her not, he had stirred slowly, using much care to leave the bed as he pulled the covers to her shoulder. He couldn't help but be in awe of her beauty. Every time he laid eyes upon her, it was as if it was his first time, he couldn't help but fall in love over and over again.
"How ironic it is that the only thing that keeps us apart, would not be flames of fire, but the light of the Sun. Sleep well, Mina. I will be waiting, always." Whispers as he takes a step back, the light from the window filling the room now as it crept across the floorboards just mere inches from his feet. Fading away slowly in the shadows would be the most hardest thing he would have to bare always as they could never fully be together unless she had joined him in the wretched darkness. He did not want that for her either.
Days seemed to bleed into one another here in this castle of darkness and mysteries. Ever since they had laid with each other, that magical night, Mina and Vlad were seldom separated from each other. Now, instead of his aloofness and standoffishness, Vlad had warmed up to her considerably. He neither left her alone like he had when she had first been brought here, nor did he let her forget his devotion to her, as it seemed he was trying to keep the memories that she remembered with each passing day, alive. He answered any question she had and was always kind and patient with her as she plied him with question after question. They both seemed to know that things of this nature took time. One did not simply go from being one person to another over night.
They now took walks together through the castle where he actually laughed in delight every once in a while at a memory she plied him with for answers, or they rested together in the library where they took turns reading to each other, cuddling by the fires light. In truth, she had lost her heart to this tall, charming man, though she wasn't ready yet to tell him just how deeply she cared for him. She wanted to remember everything,be sure of who she was, both in this world and the past before she could fully tell him her feelings for him. They spent every waking moment together, even sleeping in each others arms regularly now. The first time he had slept like the dead beside her, she had to admit it did scare her. How still he was, to still. to cold to the touch, no one should sleep like that, and yet she had gotten over it, for it gave her time to really study him and there was nothing she loved more then staring at him. She tried not to when he was awake, because manners dictated that staring was rude, but he was so breathtakingly beautiful, that when he slept, she felt free enough to gaze upon him without the shame of being rude. How he had touched her, in just a few short days since they had been together.
He had often left her, though, to attend to some errand or other but he would always return and it made the castle no longer lonely. Though, when he was gone, she would often take to exploring the castle herself. She loved history and his home was full of it. Stories just waiting to be told in the art or collectibles that dabbled in and around his home. She was on such a walk when she stopped, and was passing the door that led to the crypts. She had been told, never to go down there but never why and being one of a insatiable curious nature, she just had to see. She glanced around, least Vlad be watching her from somewhere she couldn't spot him and walked to the huge wooden door that barred her way. She took the large brass doorknob into her hands and for a moment, thought the door locked when she tugged upon it. It gave a soft groan as she turned the knob, as it gave under her hand and she pulled the door to and stepped inside. It was dark, of course, so she turned to one of the many torches that lined the walls, and plucked one off it holder, turning once more to descend into the thick blackness, leaving the door open behind her as she went. Turns out, that would be a good thing...for it gave testament to where she had gone.
Nothing but blackness met her eyes as she descended and for a moment she thought of turning back. Slowly, the stairs ended and the room grew much larger as she stepped off the last stair and glanced around. She had been told, that in the times of old, the crypts were a place of beauty. That they told a story with each statue of those departed as much as the headstones that sat beside or over the bodies that rotted within. She had hoped to read such stories or to see who had once been alive in this castle, but was disappointed to see only a few small statues of people long since gone and couldn't really read the writing on the epitaphs since they were faded. Disappointed, she turned to go till the light of her torch caught the faint outline of something just back of the crypt. Heading towards it, she saw it was a coffin...not one, but three. Three? That raised questions deep within her. Why would Vlad need three coffins? A sudden fear of being where she shouldn't, and suddenly being watched filled her and she gripped the torch tightly in both hands as she backed towards the stairs. Someone or something that wasn't Vlad was watching her and it filled her with fear.
Verona
As she had slept for three nights and three hours, her sleep had been disturbed by her sisters, "If I am to wake now, thy goblet better be filled to the brim." Verona's ice cold voice was enough to chill one's heart as it matched her stunning blue orbs. Long raven colored hair shimmered with blues like a starry night eclipsed the outline of her back as it flawlessly hung down to her buttocks. She arisen in wonderment as she offered her arms out to her younger sisters on each side of her.
Marishka
Helping her sister from her slumber, her voice softer with hints of playfulness behind them, "It be true alas, my lovely sister. We are to play this very night as the doors be opened! I have heard it, I have!" Her giggles sounded the tomb's chamber as her perfect golden curls bounced around her slender figure. Her eyes that of a perfect cut of emeralds as they twinkling in delight.
Aleera
To the left of her sister Verona, was Aleera. The cunning of the two but quick to make a decision, "Let us prey upon the one who came so willingly within our midst." A voice much like her sister's Marishka's yet more devious tones to it that matched her wavy fire amber hair with ocean blue eyes to match. Each sister more intricate and beautiful yet all possessed the same powers of seduction and strength of many men.
The sisters stayed together at all times, never once have they separated within the Castles walls. For they could not live without the other as they hunted and preyed upon the weaker who waltzed into their territory. Always veiled behind the shadows, only rarely coming into the fabricated light to grab their prey. All of their attire, seemingly and flawlessly flowing behind them as they cared not to move like mortals but of their undead selves. They lavished in what they were and bathed in the crimson pools they have created from their enemies. They cared not for the living. Not one bit.
Mina was sure she heard voices and that only increased her panic. How stupid could she be? To go where forbidden? To wander in this inky blackness with a danger that lurked just unseen? How she wished she hadn't let her curiosity get the better of her and knowing that Vlad had been called away on an errand or some important business of the Castle, she was alone. Alone but not without her own sense of protection.
I hear you! I may be human but I am protected by the Master of this castle. COME OUT! Who are you? Why do you dwell where I can not see you?"
She had never felt so frightened, but she would not allow herself to show it as she gripped the torch tighter in her hands, turning to peer into the ebony blackness. She waited, hearing movement from all around her and knew she was being surrounded and yet she held tight to her fear. She must not fear, fear was the mindkiller, and she was usually afraid of nothing. Here in the depths of the Castle, however, she was soon learning just fear was!
"Come out, or I will come after you!" she called once more and held ever so still. Her eyes peering hard into the dark. Slowly, as if appearing from a dream...or a nightmare, she saw three beautiful women emerge from either side of her and the torches light. They seemed to hesitate when they saw she held fire in her hands, and she knew the light kept them from advancing so far upon her. They were each so beautiful, yet different in their own way. Their features would put even the Deities to shame, but when she looked into their eyes she found no warmth there. Where Vlads eyes were warm, open, when he gazed at her, these womens eyes were empty, dead and that sent a small chill up and down her spine.
"Who...who are you?" she asked forcefully, trying not to show how afraid she really was.
Verona
"We dwell within the darkness from which we were born. My dear child, I can smell your fear and it is sweet." Her broad cold voice piercing the dusky still air first as she stepped but only a foot closer towards the mortal female.
Marishka
"She is but only a child, Sisters. As old as you once were, Aleera. Why Master has eyes for her is unknowest to us. She bleeds like all the rest." Her boldness left her hovering closer towards Mina yet she stayed a distance because it was not her place to make the first move. It was Verona's call. It always was and always will be.
Aleera
Her smile and childish laughter erupted the bitter eerie silence next to them, "I want to play with her some more! Please, does she really bleed like the rest of them? I have not seen one so pretty and young like me let alone a girl!"
Verona
"Silence my lovely Sisters. Let us enjoy these moments with this mortal Child." She extended out her arms, a nod of her head was the only sign she would give as to welcome the girl amongst them, "Speak with us, I shall grant it this time only. For your boldness has captured me in way I am willing to share our stories. I am Verona, Eldest of the Brides."
The words she heard uttered in near whispers made her tremble and want to growl at the same time. Her father had often said that when angered or cornered, she had the attributes of a wolf. Angry, and often so calm headed when angry, it made her huddle more into herself but at the same time, she felt herself rise up at what they said. They had no call to tease her in such a way, and she felt with growing apprehension that her anger was rising with the moment.
When Marishka came closer to her, Mina held her ground, yet the look she gave the woman said she would take no nonsense. That she would protect herself, burn them where they stood if they touched her without her permission. She was not so stupid as to give up her torch, for she knew it was what kept them, for the moment, at bay. Casting her eyes to the younger one, Aleera, she gave a soft growl at her. "DON'T TOUCH ME!" she said with such conviction it would make anyone pause and rethink the situation.
She took a few steps back though, towards the stairs as she did not like being surrounded by the three beautiful Deaths. It made her skin crawl. If Vlad found her down here, she could imagine his anger...at all of them. Though half of her hoped she could stall till he realized her missing and came searching for her. She would not, for the moment, put her hopes on that though, as she did not know how long he would be gone about his business and would have to rely on her wits to save her neck.
Taking up a seat on a nearby bench which lined the crypts, torch still gripped firmly in her hands, did she let her eyes trail over each one in turn. "Brides? Vlad has brides?" she felt a slight flare of rage echo inside her but quickly suppressed it. Of course he would, for living forever as he did, she could just barely imagine the loneliness he would endure. She had but a small taste of it when he had first brought her here. "How did you...come to be so? What happened...to make you want this life?" she stalled for time, keep them talking
Verona
Almost like an owl, her icy gaze had followed the young mortal female, as if already ripping her soul apart from her body was the torrid electricity in the air between them. All three in sync, without missing a beat stated, "Yes, we are Dracula's Brides." Silence following the other two as Verona continued on, "Born of Royalty, I too, succumbed to an ill fate. Along side my brother, hours apart, we suffered a horrible death. Yet, in my dying hours until the Raven's last caw, I was reborn. Count Dracula had come for me as he always had promised. I will be forever in his debt."
Marishka
"Sister Verona had no choice unlike myself and Aleera. She will tell you nothing more of her story for it brings her much despair. You should feel honored she spoke of it to anyone let alone a mortal. Now me, I choose to be with the one who claimed me. Bedded me. Made me feel like a woman. No mortal man could ever make me feel that way unlike that of my Master. He loved me for who I was, even the madness I laid in my wake. I gave men what they really deserved, /desired/; A broken heart." Her maniacal laugh followed as it was clear, she was always a monster in the living and even after her death.
Aleera
She giggled alongside her sister, it was clear they were keeping more secrets than they were showing to her, "I choose this life because Master promised me a life of luxury. That I will always be the only child of his eyes. I just love when he plays with me, no man can do what he does for me." Her golden curls bouncing as she clasped her hands together, she was obviously taken as a young girl who never had the chance to grow up as a women. Her emerald orbs twinkled as she was so giddy, loving this very moment with Mina. She thought of this as only a game to play for she was enthralled by Mina's emotions to her taunts.
Not liking the looks these three beauties gave her, she shivered in the darkness. Grateful for its hidden cover. If she showed one ounce of weakness she had no doubt, that they would do just as they so obviously longed to do...even without the 'threat' of Vlads protection hovering over her. She must be strong, as she gazed at the stairs out of the corner of her eye, so close. But she knew vampires were hunters by nature. To run, would ultimately be her doom.
She cut her eyes to Marishka again. This one she didn't really like. The free way she spoke of her time with Vlad made her womans heart pounded in an emotion akin to jealousy. Loved her? Vlad loved them? She could not phantom that! Not one bit! For in her upbringing, one did not give themselves lightly, and waited for the day of vows to be said before one truly could give the one they had chosen their all. The fact that she, herself had slept with Vlad a few days before, and fell asleep in his arms almost every day, spoke volumes to her. Now, though, she was second guessing herself. Should she have done such a thing so soon? Had she allowed herself to be 'tainted' by the presence of these women? Why had he not told her of them? Omissions were betrayals...lies, as far as she was concerned and there was nothing she hated more then to be lied to.
"Don't flatter yourself so, Marishka." She said before she could stop herself, her anger boiling to about breaking point. "Many things he may have done for you...but never forget, it is I whom he chose to give his heart." She paused as she realized what she had just blurted out. She had literally told a vampire to go 'fuck herself' and she was for a moment, filled with terror, before she was able to breathe through it. Her nose and lip curled at Aleeras words. Though they were the words of a child, it settled within her and curdled like sour milk. To imagine that Vlad could have feelings for these...Beasts, was appalling and it made her sick to think he had possibly laid with them as he had laid with her. She couldn't for one moment, bear the thought. Just WHO was the man she had fallen for so swiftly? That he omitted these women...what else would be be omitting?
"I have strayed where I should have not, but my eyes are open now. I...I think I will go now." she stood, keeping her back to the crypts and the stairs, her eyes always on the women before her. "I know of you, that is enough..." She wondered if they would let her leave. The looks they gave her chilled her to her bones.
Verona
She may have withheld words but her presence among the other two still held some sort of leadership among them. She reached out her hand graciously, "Sisters, don't let your desires betray you. Shall we give in, it will only ensure our own undoings. Come on, let her survive of the wretched beasts that roam the halls."
Marishka
Her lips curling into a deadly smirk from knowing how she had successfully touched a nerve on dear Mina. Let her feel envy for them for they bathed in it, "Oh, precious Mina. We shall see. We shall see...for it is your blood that will keep me beautiful." She wanted to keep on with the tauntings but Verona had stopped her in her tracks. Reminding her again, that they were not to disobey their Masters words.
Aleera
"We shall meet again, girl. Godspeed for the wolves have no mercy!" She giggled as they slowly disappeared back into the shadows once again. Of course, their eyes were still on her but they were forced to never venture out into the hallways in the direction where Mina was headed.
Vladimir sensed a disturbance in the air, his wives had stirred as visions passed through him of Mina. They were staring into the eyes of his beloved. His presence turned from books he was ever so attached too, dusting them to keep them in a decent condition. His very being had disintegrated into the thick air as it took him to the part of the Castle where the East Wing's door was ajar. Mina. Her scent strong as he entered, the growling of wolves roving just beyond corridors silenced at his presence as they turned from vicious snarls to that of whines. She was here, he could sense her heartbeat nearing as he stopped at the top of stairs, fangs elongated as he knew exactly what had transpired. Rage filled him at his Brides for treating her as such as he was only merely disappointed at Mina for not heading his words and entering here. She was no match yet for the undead's creatures that lurked here.
"Mina! What have you done, my love?" His tone was stern yet softened as he stared into the eyes of the trembling women now standing before him, "Please, tell me you are not hurt? Are you alright? Come, let me take you back." Extending out his hand to her, he couldn't' bare the thought of her hurt in any way.
She would not let herself be further goaded by these demons in womens clothing. Her anger evident as she headed for the stairs, having the audacity to actually turn her back on the three women behind her, as if to say "You are not worth my time." She paused though, when she saw Vlad appear before her, his concern for her evident, yet it did nothing to soften the heat that boiled just under her skin. Her gaze penetrated his so strongly, it was almost as if she had struck him, but she would not give these women the satisfaction of seeing her so strongly adverse to either them or Vlad, himself at this moment.
"No, I am fine, thank you." Her words were carefully spoken, to hide the rage she felt burning within her, so the Brides wouldn't guess who they affected her. "We were merely talking, but yes, I would like to go back." She actually took his hand when he offered it to her and taking the stairs, climbed up out of the darkness and into the awaiting light beyond. The wolves that harbored there paid her no mind as she walked by the Masters side and only when she was safely past the door and into the hallway of the great castle did she let her hand drop so fast it was almost as if his touch burned her.
Her posture changed almost immediately as well. Her back stiffening, her eyes showing the thunder behind her gaze as she continued to walk, where she really knew not, but she just had to...had to move, had to get this anger, this disgust out of her before she lashed out at him in a very unladylike way. She had never felt so dirty before in all her days. The mere fact that he had women, had kept them below and did things with them...when one was no more then a child made her feel ill. But she could understand why he kept them. His path was a dark and lonely one, so she was further upset that she was mad at him for seeking solace, mad at herself for being angry with him. But that is not what she lashed out about first when he sought to follow her. If he thought he would scold her for going where he had forbidden, he would find a torrent of rage thrown right back at him. She has 'soiled' herself, in her eyes, by being with him before their vows...and she wasn't even sure how she felt about him right at this moment.
"how could he do this? to me?" She muttered to herself as she walked quickly down the hall, turning to enter the first door she came too which just happened to be a smaller library. Great...a room full of projectiles with which to throw! She turned as he followed her in, her anger neither cooled nor still by the puzzled gaze he gave her, nor the somewhat hurt expression he wore from her pulling away from him. "When were you going to me Vlad?" she started, her eyes blazing. "When were you going to tell me of them? Ever?! Or were you hoping I'd be a good little slave and do as I am told!? Ticălosule oribil, cum ai putut face acest lucru pentru mine!" (YOU HORRIBLE BASTARD, How could you do this to ME!) She slipped into Romanian so easily in her anger. She was so upset, felt so cheaply and was ashamed of feeling such all at the same time. She had to vent...had to get it out and right now, he was the target of her emotions.
She was more than troubled as he felt her emotions cut through the air around them. Confusion and something else mingled with his mortal emotions. How could be truly give her the comfort she needed at the moment when she had directed all her hate towards him. He felt like a monster.
"Nu se întoarce înapoi pe mine, Mina. Dacă trebuie să mă pedepsească, apoi fă-o repede, înainte de inima mea cu adevărat pauze." (Don't turn your back on me, Mina. If you must punish me, then do it quickly before my heart truly breaks.) He did feel something stir inside him, something he hasn't felt in a long time. Was it guilt for what he hath done? Did she really think he had broke their vows long ago? Did she think he would love another? It was impossible.
"Believe not in the most cunning of lies from the creatures you met below. If they were of any importance to me, I would have told the truth from the very beginning. I hold no love for them, Mina. They are but a chilling tale of my history that I will bare for eternity. My own mistakes I hath made yet keep only to salvage what's left of my own humanity."
Another story, for another time as he would tell her the truth soon enough when she would ask of it again. He was however, in tune with her actions as they still held a fear inside. Slowly unraveling as their love could surely break if not given delicate care at this point on.
"Do you now understand why I kept them from you? I am only protecting you, my Love. Please find it within yourself to forgive me lest ye be for selfish needs or likewise, I only thought it would be best for you to stray away from such atrocities within these very walls. Do you still see a monster before you?"
Maybe it was true of the saying; Love is blind.
"Protecting me?" That was by far the worst possible answer he could have given her and it showed in the way her eyes narrowed, the way her mouth twisted into a grimace as she moved deeper into the room. "I am not some simpering human...let alone fainting female this time and era has produced! I am fully capable of making up my own mind and defending myself, thank you VERY MUCH!"
Anger simmered under her very skin, turning her pallor to a nice shade of pink, but it had cooled somewhat at the slightly lost expression he gave her. Damn him! She walked back over to him and glared up at him. He might be taller then her by far, but she was as tenacious as any wolf when angered and she would not let his height 'bully' her either. "Still, you should have told me! Have you any idea what that looks like from my side? You tell me I can not go to a place, I end up going and find not one, but three women hidden in the depths of the Dark. Gods sakes, Vlad...three!" She shivered in jealousy and hated herself for it. "I can't look at you right now!"
She was more angry at herself, for she knew if the roles were reversed she would do the same. No one wanted to walk the world alone, and was it so horrible that he had made them to help him hang onto his humanity? She shouldn't be angry at him for that. Damn him! But then, he already was. She had walked to the other end of the library, more so to give her time to cool off least she really did strike him. She had never been so angry before, and knowing she had a trigger temper, it took a while for her to come back to herself. When she was sure she could look at him without spitting fire, she turned once more to him, catching the tale end of his question. What DID she see now when she gazed at him? She still cared for him, that she wouldn't deny, but to admit her feelings would have to admit, in a way, she had been wrong...and she had had every right to be angry. He hadn't told her, and that was as much as lying to her. Didn't he see that?
"No, I do not see a monster when I look at you. Rather someone very very lost." She went to take a seat upon the nearby lounge chair and glanced up at him, her anger for the moment, cooled and her eyes open. "If we are to make this...US..work, you must tell me everything." She said softly. Her words proof that she wanted to still try, that she did still care, but would take no more omissions, not in any form. She gave a soft sigh and waited to see if he would join her, for he was more then free to do so. She was sorry though, that she had bitten him like that. He did not always know what it was like, to be human, she thought...they would learn together...if he would but trust her enough to open up to her. "Forgive me, Vlad, for biting. I will not be jealous of them, nor the memories they call within you. You are all I care about, but you must talk to me. I know that will take days, months...but I have time and so do you." She said with a gentle smirk. "I love you...do not break my heart a second time and I will be careful and protect yours." Her olive eyes locked onto his dark ebon pools and she felt herself fall all over again. Damn Him!
Vlad gazed upon her as he closed the distance once more between them, how could he let his lover feel such anger. Though it was ironic as a thought had opened up memories of her past life. She was always this feisty girl who would never stop for no one. She defended herself and delivered justice for what she believed in. Something that had caught his attention when they had first met. His little spitfire had always captivated him and spread a smile upon his face as he knelt down in front of her on one knee, placing his hands in hers as he peers at her longingly and sympathetically, "Please, you do not need to apologize for it was I in the wrong, I see this now. My upmost apologies my love."
Raising a hand to cup her cheek as his stormy orbs peered into hers, searching. He did not know what else she wanted him to speak of, he had only but hinted at what was to be expected here. Lies, he wasn't the one for such lies from her. He had only been honest or prevented the thought of her getting hurt if he had told the 'full' truth about the things he had done while she was still among the heavens; lost.
Moving to sit beside her now as he still went back to hold her hands, he had took much care in his words, that he seemed somewhat thought out; slowed, "What would you like to know, Mina. We have time to talk for as long as you wish."
As he knelt before her, the rest of her anger disappeared. Fled at the look he gave her. He looked so utterly lost, that her first reaction was a brash one, to lean down and kiss him. One she just barely resisted as he tenderly caressed her cheek with his long fingers. His touch caused her to tingle and a small tremor ran up and down her spine. "Always be honest with me, Beloved." She said gently, taking his hands into her own as well and entwining their fingers together. "I promise you, I am a lot stronger then I look. I am here now, yours utterly and completely. Let me walk this road with you, and not behind you."
As he moved to sit beside her, she curled up into his embrace. Seeking comfort as well as giving it. She was overly bold and moved to settle into his lap, laying her head lightly against his chest for a moment, just enjoying his presence and the feeling of his arms around her. She knew that ladies never made the first move, but things were different here. She was different, and she rather liked it, the possibilities that brought. Such a pose was comforting and yet she heard no soft heartbeat under her ear that would normally lull hers into gentle rhythm. How strange. That he be 'alive' and yet not.
Casting her eyes up to his once more, hearing that he was willing to talk to her, answer any question she might have, stirred her. She knew he loved her, but had always been unsure just how much and she was beginning to see just how deep his feelings for her went. It made her heart trip over itself and this time when the temptation of him became to much, she didn't resist. Sliding a hand lightly to rest against his cheek, she moved to press her soft, warm lips against his. Hoping he wouldn't find her to bold in her actions as she gently, yet lovingly kissed him.
Yet again, she seemed soothed now but it was such an odd sight to see one change so quickly with emotions that even he had a hard time grasping the events that unfolded. It had only left him curious and more puzzled; like a puppy tilting his head trying to understand.
Though his mind came to a halt as she came to sit upon his lap, the reactions natural as he wrapped his arms around her, lips meeting lips as he drowned in her adoration's. Love was a beautiful thing yet it's actions so odd. Gentle caresses of her womanly figure once again as he had only swarmed in so many emotions that filled his head and made him dizzy.
Was this a thing? How could one do such a thing to him? He didn't understand nor could he grasp this concept of a woman being the one who dominated him. Not possible. If his heart could skip a beat, it would be doing so ten fold.
"I..." His words had halted as he wanted to respond to her words just mere minutes before but he could not as she had took his breath away. Her actions had caused him to tremble even. What game was this?
She lost herself to their kiss, pulling back when she needed air, and casting and locking her eyes with his. She noticed his confusion, and it made her blush, deep and crimson. She had never been one to make the first move before, but it seemed the natural thing for her to do. She loved him, He loved her. She just didn't think and reacted it.
"Vlad?" She called his name gently as he seemed about to speak, but when he stuttered her heart tripped once again in its beatings. Did she effect him as he effected her? She was curious, just how far he would let her go and nearly blushed at the path her thoughts took. Could she really be so overly bold? She had been raised not to be, to be a good, quiet woman, but she remembered one memory from the past that was becoming more clearer with each passing moment, where she had gone 'toe to toe' with the Prince and soon the King. She had been a fire that had lit both their ways and she remembered that Vlad had seemed to like that about her. But could she do it, should she?
She felt him tremble and that made her body heat up in pleasure. That she could make this great man tremble like a scared boy. Did she really have that power within her? Now more then ever, she wanted to find out. Something changed behind her eyes and she knew when he saw it. For he went stock still, like only he could do. The hand that had caressed his cheek so tenderly, slipped behind him and into his hair. His hair was so soft, despite the way he kept it greased back. She loved the way it felt going through her fingers. She leaned forward once more and gently rubbed her nose against his own. She would be slow...both for his sake as well as hers. She wasn't sure how far she could go with this, but she loved him and wanted him to know just how much. Also, that there was more then one way to 'love' someone. Rough, fast was all well and good, but she loved romance stories of where the two lovers took their time. Worshiped each other and she wanted that for him. Wanted him to feel that deep abiding love within her. She was brave enough to try...for him, she would do anything.
A memory had actually slipped into his mind as it stopped only for him to remember it. It was a day when they were young, he was just turning the age of 17 and she 16. Royalties littered the streets within the Castles gardens as the King and Queen had thrown a party for their youngest child. A daughter named Verona Elizabetha Tepes. She was finally considered a women in this time at the age of twelve. She was the center of attention for all to adore with her flowing gown of mixed starry fabrics that shimmered in the sun with a bow wrapped around her waist that caught in the wind behind her. Her crown of tiny diamonds that matched her shimmered dress.
Verona had eyes that synced with her older brothers as hers was of lightening and her brothers as of the very storm. Both children blessed by the Gods for their good looks. Of course, both also resembled their mother, a fair woman with plump lips, pink cheeks and raven colored hair.
Vladimir had given her for her birthday several things; a bracelet, necklace and earrings she would soon wear when her ears were pierced. He even brought to her a tan splashed white pony, to teach her how to ride it one day. Verona couldn't have been more than happy but of course, with all siblings, she was a bit saddened when Vlad gave her no more attention.
A set of events had occurred that joggled his memory as he came back to reality to peer at Mina. It was the very face of the woman who had changed him that day. His hands reaching up to stroke her hair as she did his. Brushing his fingers through the soft strands of hair as they eyes could only gaze longingly at each other. Wants. Desires. All seemed to be flooding between them but this time, he grew shy of her actions. She had not only stunned him, but made him remember just the very thing of how he came to know her, love her.
Vladimir's memories drifted again of the pony and his little sister Verona. For some reason, Verona had become upset by something Vlad had said but he never remembered what it was or if it truly was him that had said something. All he remembers was chasing after Verona as the crowd watched on, laughing because they had thought they were playing which only upset her even more.
"Verona! opreşte-te! Spune-mi ce sa întâmplat? Trebuie să vă provoca o scena fiecare dată singur nu te drumul tau? Pic de rahat!" (Verona! Stop! Tell me what happened? Must you cause a scene every single time you don't get your way? Little shit!) Passing the gardens into the grape vines had they separated. Being smaller, she was very fast and sneaky. Losing sight of her, he stopped to scan the area and look for her. Childish she was and it pissed him off at times. As he was about to turn to leave and return back to the party, a woman had caught his attention. A beauty he could not forget lest want too. Who was this woman and did she really over hear and seen what had transpired? Did he look like a complete prick to his sister? He would soon find out.
"It's not what you think, I wasn't trying to yell at her. My apologies!" He had said to this young woman about his age it seemed. To anyone else, it would have looked like he was bullying his sister.
She noticed he seemed shy almost, and the smile that crossed her face was one full of deep love for him, but also of a playful nature. Sh nuzzled into his touch as he ran his fingers through her hair. His attentions made her shudder in delight and tingled her scalp. She loved his touch. She could feel the desire, the deep love waft around them, and she would have flushed again for being so bold when suddenly the memory came upon her that she had paused in her attentions to him. She saw the events pass before her eyes and for a moment, she lost herself to them.
She was shorter then she was now, her figure small but mighty. The look in her green eyes had her smiling at the memory. It was so very very clear she was sure she was actually there had she not felt the strong arms of Vlad around her. She had been invited to the party for Verona. As the daughter of one of the most famous Millers in town, it was her duty to pay her respects when her father could not. Her mother had died when she was young and as she grew, she took on more of the responsibilities of the household. If not for the generosity of the King and Queen, they would not have the prosperous business they had. They were by no means rich, but neither were they poor. She had enjoyed the party very much and made sure to make her rounds, talking to people, but the pressing of people had her seeking out solace in the gardens. She had just taken a seat upon a nearby fountain, enjoying the silence and the sounds of the water gurgling over the statues in the fountains hold, when she heard a loud voice call out. It sounded angry, frustrated even as she stood, walking to the edge of the grape vines, she saw a flash of color and knew it was the Princess, and the voice alone could only belong to Prince Vlad.
Her eyes locked with his when he spotted her and she froze in place. She had hoped he would pass her by, not know that she had seen him in this moment. Still, it was Veronas birthday and he had no call to say such things to her. Siblings or not. She momentarily forgot herself and the first things out of her mouth were words to berate him. "De ce ești atât de crud să spun astfel de lucruri la sora ta? Nu este aceasta zi ea? Mi-ar crede că ca un frate mai mare, vei căuta să facă această zi a ei, una fericită. Numele de asteptare nu te prinde." (Why are you so cruel to say such things to your sister? Is this not her day? I would think that as an older brother, you would seek to make this day of hers, a happy one. Name calling does not become you.)
She gazed upon him, hearing his words of apology. "It is not to me you need to apologize too, but to your sister. I am sure she looks up to you. You must be patient with her, even if she could be frustrating at times." She thoroughly chastised him, before she remembered who he was and lowered her eyes for a moment. "My Prince..." She nodded, trying to regain her footing and find her place once more. The look he gave her made her shiver and would make any maiden blush. They were so open, so questioning and full of wonder. He was a Prince, she was a lowly Millers daughter, it was unseemly!
She felt herself come back into reality and shiver again at the emotions that shared memory had made her feel. Her smile brightened a little as she gazed down into those stormy eyes she loved so much. She remembered more now, and she had never shied away from him before, not from the first time they had met. Why should she do so now? Were they not bound to each other already? He may have forgotten how it felt to be 'Loved' and loved deeply, but she would attempt to show him. "I love you, Vladimir, with all that I am. Always, I am yours..." She said ever so softly, as her hands trembled slightly at the thoughts that ran rampant within her. She leaned down and pressed her lips once more against his, this time they were more possessive, almost demanding, but she was slow, tender almost in their kiss. Pulling back ever so slowly and hovering close to him, lips mere inches apart. Her heart thundered in her chest as she gazed deeply into his eyes. Would he be angry with her, or would he be accepting or yet would he try to stop her? She waited, not even realizing she held a breath as she looked into eyes like the sea after a storm.
Memories to him, were as real as it is now; Her solid warm body in his sweet grasps as she demanded of him for another kiss in which he obliged her. He could never turn away from her nor feel the need too. He was very much 'alive' at this moment as his lips traced her own, clashing together as they nibbled her plump sweet lips. It was as if they never were separated and never passed into the afterlife. No, they were one again, two souls colliding, stronger than ever as he felt every single emotion she emanated within her.
"I never stopped loving you, my beautiful Mina." Sealing the kiss once again before his mind had twisted realities once again and he found himself standing in the grape gardens staring yet again at this young woman who had scolded him like he was some commoner.
"Cine datorez plăcerea de a fi familiarizat cu; unul deci cu îndrăzneală ca pe tine însuţi. Cu siguranţă trebuie să aibă un nume. Intentiile mele faţă de sora mea a fost foarte scurt, recunosc, dar ea este, dar un copil răsfăţat. Ca fiind un prinţ, vine starea. Am avut de a participa la alte aspecte şi ea a deranjat doar ea. Ca atare, la chestiune la indemana; Sunt nedumerit şi recunoscători pentru felul în care îl vedea pe cât sunt de a acţiona spre printesa." (Who do I owe the pleasure of being acquainted with; one so boldly as yourself. Surely you must have a name. My intentions towards my sister were very short, I do admit but she is but a spoilt child. As with being a Prince, comes status. I had to attend to other matters and she had only upset herself. As such, to the matter at hand; I am both perplexed and grateful for the way you see it on how I am to act towards the princess.)
He had only given her a charming smile as he stepped closer to her, taking her hand in his, leaning down in an eloquent bow to kiss it, "Trebuie să ne prefacem pentru o clipă să aibă nici un titlu numele noastre şi de a fi îndrăzneţ poate fi, Miss?" (Must we pretend for one moment to have no titles on our names and be audacious as can be, Miss?)
Honestly he was struck with awe and curiosity as this woman had spoke to him of truths. In a way, challenged him yet not, she wasn't like other women at all. She had the soul of a courageous and dangerous women yet he loved every minute of it. He wanted to know more about her instantly. No women ever spoke to him that way so naturally she had pique his interest in her.
Her emotions threatened to drown her as he kissed her in return. The feel of his hands against her sides, holding her tight in his embrace only inflamed her. She felt her inside clench as heat rushed through her at hearing his soft words of love. He remembered, and so did she, that was enough for her.
When he pulled her closer to him again and once more claimed her lips as his own, she almost came undone, but control had always been one of her strong suits. Once more, the realities shifted, and she saw what it was he remembered and it made her heart beat faster as she watched it play out, their first meeting. Oh how he had captured her then, as he had now. He was charming, yet slightly arrogant at the same time and she had never let him get away with that. Not at all.
"Eu nu am un nume, dar aș fi necunoscut pentru tine, prințul meu. Sora ta pare răsfățată numai pentru că ea te iubește atât de mult. Oricare ar fi în cazul dat o șansă, sunt sigur." ( I do have a name, but I would be unknown to you, My Prince. Your sister only seems spoiled because she loves you so much. Any one would if given a chance, I am sure.) She blushed deeply and averted her eyes from his at her bold words. She had all but said she found him attractive, handsome even and that was not in her station to say. It was not permissible. He had certain duties to uphold, there was no lie there, but she found herself wanting to know him. She shouldn't allow herself that.
As he came closer to her and took her hand into his large one and placed a kiss, she smirked at him. letting mirth fill her eyes and expression. "Dacă am trăit într-o astfel de lume, prințul meu, în cazul în care un astfel de lucru a fost posibil." (If only we lived in such a world, My Prince, where such a thing was possible.) *She replied slowly, her answer thought out. She had to try hard to keep her status, for she should never, even for an instant forget her place. But he was so charming and devilishly handsome. It almost wasn't fair!
"Please forgive me, my boldness, My Prince." She said gently, her cheeks flushed. "It is not my place to speak to you thusly."
She bit her lip as the images faded as her fingers traced lightly trailed Vlads face. He hadn't changed a bit, not one bit since the day she had lost him. He was still the same person though, inside, she had only to 'remind' him.