Josh gazed up at the sky as the sun started to rise, slowly taking in a deep breath to taste the air as the first rays of the sun warmed it. Yesterday sure had been interesting for the vampire. Sighing softly, he released the breath of air he didn't need before amethyst orbs settled down on a resting Creven. He may not have been sleeping, but at least he was meditating. "Creven." Smiling as cerulean hues sparkled at him, Josh reached over to ruffle soft spikes. "Do you want to go shopping for some clothes today?"
"Un!" Nodding as a large grin spread across pale pink lips, Creven stretched his body out languidly to release the kinks in his joints and muscles. He was looking forward to getting new clothes, as good as these were, the wolf's clothes were too big for him and didn't fit right. Completely comfortable he was not.
"Good, I figured you'd want to get some new ones." Josh chuckled lightly as he stood from his seat, lightly cracking each side of his neck to release the air bubbles between the bones. He thought vampires wouldn't have to deal with soreness and stiffness, no one ever told you that you would still have to deal with this shit. "I'll have to get some cash at the ATM then."
"Planning on going shopping?" Jacob asked, words a bit slurred and muffled from a large yawn wrenching his jaw open as he stepped out of his room.
"Going to get him some clothes that fit better."
"You got money?"
"Of course, my great-great-grandfather's account." A small smirk played at the edges of his lips, eyes twinkling with the cliché excuse.
"Your...? Oh." Laughing a bit at the stupid joke, Jacob shook his head lightly. "Well isn't that convenient for you?"
"Very." Watching the wolf head to the bathroom, he gave a light sigh. Well... At least they were getting along better than yesterday. His lips twitched up in a loving smile as his gaze went back to the fox-child he called a brother. He had Creven to thank for that. "Do you want to eat before or after we shop?"
Brows scrunching together in thought, pointed ears twitched with the silent debate with himself as the young blonde took a moment. Azure jewels were hidden with a smile as Creven's cheeks seemed to push his eyes closed. "After!"
Nodding with a soft chuckle, the vampire stepped over to his brother to scoop him up in his arms. "Alright, after it is then. We'll be back later." He raised his voice a bit at the last part, though didn't really care if the wolf heard him or not.
"Take your time!" Came the answering call from the bathroom, Jacob having to steady a hand to the wall as he relieved himself so he didn't fall into the toilet. That just wouldn't be cool, at all.
Nuzzling at the blonde tresses before setting Creven on his feet once he stepped across the threshold, Josh slowly took in another lungful of crisp morning air, head tilting back to gaze up at the pink sky. "Beautiful morning." He whispered out, smiling over at his brother. "Isn't it?"
Cerulean pools drunk in the sight, a nostalgic feeling tingling in the blonde's chest. "..." He looked away from the sky, grinning widely at his brother. "Un!" Sunrises always gave him mixed feelings, some he'd rather not dwell on.
Eying the bare feet of Creven, Josh chuckled lightly. "We'll have to get you some shoes before anything else. Ah, and you have to walk on two feet."
An annoyed growl came from the fox-child, azure eyes narrowing at his brother with a challenging glare.
"No growling, either. You have to talk like a normal person." Gently poking Creven's nose, he smiled in amusement at the defiant glare. "Got it?"
The glare morphed into a small pout, pale pink lips pursing together with a reluctant noise whining in the back of his throat. "Fine..." As cold lips pressed to his forehead, Creven closed one of his eyes as the other gazed up at his smiling brother. This was almost making him not want to go get new clothes... Almost.
"Don't worry, if you get too uncomfortable we can come back right away." Josh said, pulling back to run cold fingers through soft spikes. "And if you really don't want to, you don't have to speak."
He was rewarded with a brilliant smile that made those azure jewels sparkle brighter than any diamond. Josh laughed softly, returning the smile. "I thought that would make you feel better."
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"What about this?" Josh blinked when he couldn't see his younger brother, looking around. "Creven?" A small spike of panic crept into his extremities when he couldn't immediately see golden hair and blue jewels.
A few hours into clothes shopping and they only had a few shirts and pants for the boy. The color scheme was the same, Creven always being drawn towards black clothes. His shirts were the same style; turtle neck with long sleeves that had a little extra slack so the tail of the shirt passed his hips by an inch or so. The material was thin and lightweight, being a little on the transparent side if stretched too thin, which is a reason the blonde got them a size larger than what he would normally. His pants followed the same idea; all black and the same style. Granted they were women's pants, what were they called again...? Jeggings...? Such a stupid name, they were supposed to be a cross between jeans and leggings, whatever-the-fuck those were, but Creven liked them. They were form-fitting and the material both thick and flexible. Jeans were too stiff, and other pants were too lose for the blonde's liking. Men's pants had been too lose for the petite boy, and belts were not an option.
Never again will I try and get him to try a belt... Last time he nearly tore the house apart.
Shaking his head lightly at the memory, Josh rolled his shoulders a bit as the feeling of panic started to creep towards his core. "Creven!" He nearly yelled, the scents around him mingling to the point it was becoming increasingly difficult to pinpoint his brother's. "Where did you go?" Stepping down the carpeted floor, a sigh of relief breezed passed cold lips as the vampire spotted a head of golden spikes. Unmistakeably Creven. "There you are. Creven, don't wander off like that again."
"Gomen." Creven said softly, gazing at a dark orange vest that was a lightweight, cottony material and with a high collar.
"It's fine." Sidling up to the fox-child's side, his gaze flickered from the mesmerized expression to what his brother was looking at. "So, what's captured your attention so much?" Eying the vest, his lips twitched up in a bit of amusement. At least it wasn't black. "Do you like it?" He was hoping so, even if it was a darker color, Josh thought Creven's wardrobe needed a splash of color.
"Un... But..." Lips pulling down in a soft frown, a bit of confusion swirled inside him.
"But?" The vampire urged gently, turning his head to peer down at the expression on Creven's face.
"It makes me feel sad... And... It reminds me that I really hate orange..."
"Why is that?" Thin brow arching, he turned to face his brother fully. "You don't have to get it if that's how you feel about it."
"I want it!" Creven's hand shot out for the article of clothing, the boy pulling it off the hook and slipping it over one of his new turtle necks and quickly zipping it up so the top of the vest's collar brushed along his jaw. "I want it..." Nuzzling his nose into the collar, his brows furrowed in confusion as silver flashed behind his eyes, his brain straining with trying to capture a memory.
Chuckling, the vampire ruffled the fox-child's hair gently. "Alright, if you want it, then we'll get it."
Smiling up at his brother happily, he purred gently from the affection and gave the other a grateful expression. The smile dropped immediately as elfish ears twitched from the sound of thunder cracking and booming in the distance. He shivered, stepping closer to his brother and gripping his sleeve tightly. "I... I want to go back now..."
A storm... I hate storms...
Pathetic. Being afraid of weather.
Gripping the sleeve tighter, Creven ignored the snarling voice in his head. Why was it always angry...?
Curling an arm around the petite body, Josh pulled his brother close to his side as he headed for the register to cash out. "Alright, we're going now. Don't worry, I'm here." Nuzzling his nose to the soft tresses, he made sure to keep his brother glued to his side.
The tension in his body melted away some as he was pulled against a cold body, letting the chilliness chase away some of his anxiety about the storm. Creven glanced up at the cashier once they got to the check-out counter, blinking at the young looking girl.
Pulling the tags off the vest, Josh handed them over to the girl so she could charge him for the clothing. "Ring up an extra shirt and pants as well, he's wearing them. I know we're not supposed to do that, but the clothes he was wearing before were below par." He said with an easy smile.
"Okie dokie~!" The bubbly cashier beamed at the two, winking at Creven. "He's so cute~! Is this your younger brother~?"
"He is." Josh said, smiling down at his now blushing brother. The pink coloring contrasted nicely with the pale-tan skin.
"What's your name sweetie~?"
A bit startled from the outgoing girl, Creven hid behind his brother. A small hand gripped the back of Josh's shirt, the small blonde slowly peeking out from around the taller male to gaze shyly at the cashier.
"He's a bit shy around new people." Settling a comforting hand on soft spikes, he pet the tresses gently.
"Aww~! How cute~!" She squealed out, not minding at all if the blonde was shy. She chatted with the vampire, flirting with him a bit as she rung out their purchases.
Grabbing the recite as she held it out, Josh smiled easily once more. "Thank you." Grabbing the bags, he left with his brother clinging to the back of his shirt still, smiling lightly at the pride swelling in his chest as his brother clung to him for protection. "Alright, we're going back now." Opening the umbrella that was part of the purchase, Josh looked at his brother.
Cerulean pools stared out at the rain falling from the sky. He hated rain... Jolting form a loud clap of thunder, his pupils dilated in fear as his heart sped up.
Pathetic. Growled out the voice in his head.
A flash of lightning lit the sky darkened with grey clouds, every muscle in a lithe body going tense.
He really hated storms.
The most primitive response was triggered inside the blonde at the next BOOM of thunder; flight. He took off, bolting away from the large building that humans called a "mall".
"Creven!" Josh cursed loudly, dropping the umbrella in favor of chasing after the small blonde. Amethyst orbs narrowed in concern as the blonde disappeared from view. "Fuck!" He couldn't just run at top speed around humans, some were looking at him and he didn't need them telling people about him "being there one second and then gone the next". "Dammit!" He snarled out, forcing himself to run at a human speed as he followed after the terrified scent.
Creven's eyes stung from the water dripping into them, but it barely went noticed and didn't even slow him down in his panicked run. His whole body flinched as another clap of thunder sounded, barely able to keep himself on his feet and from crashing into the muddying ground. Lips parting with a loud yelp, the fox-child ducked down into a cluster of trees to hide from most of the rain. Purpling eyes glanced around quickly, the pupils nearly swallowing the colorful irises with his terror. A small whine left him as he slunk beneath the trees, ears twitching lightly as he looked around fearfully. Body going stiff from a loud noise booming above him, Creven's head tilted lightly as keen ears picked up something different. It almost sounded like thunder... But it wasn't...? Intrigued by the odd sound, he slowly started to crawl after it, hoping it was battling against the treacherous thunder.
The shoes on his feet were a bit hindering, though as he went on, the more he adjusted to them.
With each boom of thunder and strike of lightening, the small boy cringed and whimpered in panic. The odd sound seemed to answer every other clap of thunder, though the fox-child was hoping it was a challenge against the raging sky, fighting against the storm. Maybe would it protect him...
Josh...?
Where had his brother gone? Did he abandon him? No, no, he had run too far by himself with his fear. The vampire would find him soon, Creven was sure of that, and they would both be able to go to the defiant sound battling the thunder.
How could I have been stuck with such a pathetic host? Here, let me help... Distract you. The snarling voice laughed out, the sound echoing around the boy's skull harshly before a surge of energy and heat crashed into his body like an angry wave of the ocean. There, now you won't even notice the storm.
Body writhing and curling into itself from the sudden heat, Creven howled out from the burning in his core as purple eyes widened and bled red. Lips parting with a growling breath, a visible puff billowed out from his mouth from the rise in body temperature.
Hungry...
Looking up, his ears twitched at a loud BOOM before another growl rumbled in his chest. All previous thoughts of the storm and of finding protection with the odd sound were gone, the only thing in his mind right now was if the sound would lead him towards something to take away his hunger.
Is it food?
Dodging trees and rocks as he sprinted through the woods, long ears twitched with each mysterious BOOM. Creven paused when the next time he heard the noise, it sounded a lot louder, lifting his head and turning it this way and that to try and pinpoint the direction it was coming from. He mimicked the motions of a hunting fox, listening for a mouse beneath four feet of snow. But this wasn't a mouse, and there was no snow.
That way.
Turning his body, the blonde bolted in a burst of speed that wasn't humanly possible once he heard the most recent booming sound. A soft growl pulled his lips from sharp fangs, Creven not taking long at all to arrive in the area of the noise he was hunting. Slinking silently in the brush as he peered out at a clearing, the already wide pupils got a fraction bigger in fear from the amount of vampires gathered in one place. Creven faltered in the hunt, backing up a few shaky steps as dread touched at his heart.
Oh, please. Why do you continue to be afraid of these creatures? Look, there's a human with them.
Head tilting a bit as he was urged on by the voice, Creven inched closer again to get a better look at the human female.
Good boy. The voice cooed out mockingly, malicious intent not even attempted to be covered in the tone. Now, feed! A sharp grin glinted in dull light as the large creature pumped more chakra into his host. Half a tail's worth was now swirling within the lithe body.
Eye twitching lightly as the burning sensation increased, his insides feeling like they were trying to wriggle away out of pain, a soft whine fell from his lips before they peeled back to bare sharp fangs once more. He had to feed. It was the only way to quell the fire.
Water dripped slowly down his face, the rain having slowed down to a light drizzle during the hunt, before stopping altogether moments before his arrival. Blinking away the sky-water from his eyes, Creven's muscles tensed and coiled tightly as he lowered his body down to the muddy ground. The slickness would make gripping and creating traction hard, but his fingers dug into the soft earth to find purchase in the more stable soil below the mud. He waited patiently as the tension built up energy, eyes zeroed in on the human girl. In an explosion of energy, Creven shot out of the bushes like a bullet, claws aimed for a fragile throat.
XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxX
Two Hours Earlier.
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"So, we're going to be playing a game once the storm hits, you want to come and watch?" Edward smiled at his lover, holding the girl in his lap while they lounged on her bed comfortably.
"Of course I wanna go watch!" Bella grinned, nuzzling her nose to a cold cheek. "Watching you and Emmett trying to best one another is my favorite program."
"Oh?" Arching a brow at the girl, the vampire kissed her temple gently, chastely. "Well, I'm glad I can entertain." He chuckled out, smoothing over her hair gently.
"You always entertain me." She beamed up at him innocently, doe brown eyes sparkling lightly.
"Oh, do I?" Laughing lightly, Edward cuddled the warm body close to his own cold one.
"Yes, you do." Bella hummed out, shivering a bit at the chill settling into her skin, though she snuggled closer anyway. "How's Emmett doing?" She asked softly after a moment of silence.
"Better. He usually recovers right after he comes back from his little vacation." Not entirely the right word, but it was a nicer word than anything else he could come up with.
"That's good! I'm glad to hear he's doing better. I couldn't stop worrying about him..." The young girl frowned a bit, the vampire being like a brother to her.
Nodding, the bronze-haired vampire frowned lightly. "I still wish he'd tell us what's wrong... Suffering alone isn't good for anyone..."
"He'll tell you when he's ready to." Bella said softly, cupping a cold cheek gently to give her lover a soft smile. "Some people don't think they need the help at first, but everyone realizes they need it sooner or later."
Humming, a crooked smile replaced the small frown. "You're right... What did I do to deserve you?"
"You know, I think that same question sometimes." Bella said with mock seriousness, tapping her chin lightly with a finger.
"Hey!" Edward laughed out, snuggling the girl closer and giving a small nip to her ear.
Giggling softly, a soft blush warmed her cheeks as she smiled up at her boyfriend. "I'm kidding, I'm kidding."
"I know." Glancing over at the clock ticking away on the wall, he hummed softly. "Want to get going? We can hang out at my place until the storm starts up. I'm sure Esme would like to make snacks with you for the game."
"Oh, that sounds like fun!" Standing up from a cold embrace, Bella smiled happily at the vampire. "Let's get going then!"
The world spun and blurred around Bella suddenly, the human blinking owlishly and a bit dumbly as she gazed at the front door of her boyfriend's home. "Haven't I told you not to do that?!" Her head felt like it had been dipped in a whirlpool.
"Have you?" Edward asked, his tone suggesting he's never heard such a thing as he walked up to the door and opened it for his girlfriend. "I don't recall."
"Don't lie, or I'll tell Esme on you."
Edward laughed softly and smiled. "Alright, alright. Next time we'll take your truck."
"Good." Huffing lightly, the teenage girl strode passed her vampire boyfriend and into the house. Blinking, a smile broke across her face as she spotted the vampire part of their previous conversation. "Emmett! Hey."
"Bella! My favorite human!" The large vampire walked up to her with a wide grin. "How're you doing?" Wrapping his thick arms around the girl, Emmett picked her up and swung her around.
"Ugh..." Shaking her head a bit to stop the spinning once she was set down, Bella lightly whacked Emmett on the shoulder. "What is with you two scrambling my brains around?"
"Aw, your brains are fine, I promise." The brick-wall-of-a-man grinned down at the small human girl. "So, you're gunna cheer me on, right?"
Bella smiled softly, head tilting a bit. "I dunno, I'll probably cheer for Edward, since he's my boyfriend and all and that's what girlfriends are supposed to do."
"That sounds rehearsed, Eddy did you tell her to say that?" Emmett raised a brow over at his brother.
"I did not! And hey, you're cheering me on because I'm better and going to win, right?" Edward asked, arms crossing as he arched a brow at the small girl.
"Yeah! That too!"
Emmett laughed loudly, his usual boisterous merriment flowing out. "Good, you tell him that." Winking at the girl, he couldn't help but relax more as he talked with her. Golden eyes shined lightly with a soft happiness.
"Hey!" Rolling his eyes, Edward chuckled softly before stepping deeper into the house. "I see how it is, Bella, you think I don't have a chance. You'll see, you'll both see!" He said a bit dramatically, walking out of the room as he upturned his nose to the air.
Exchanging glances, Emmett and Bella shared a laugh before following the bronze-haired vampire.
"Face it, Eddy, you won't be able to beat me!"
"Alright, you two, save it for the game." Carlisle chuckled softly, smiling at Bella. "Hello, Bella, how are you?"
"I'm well, Carlisle, how're you?"
"Good, good." The Sire smiled gently at the girl before looking to Alice. "Anything?"
"Nope, nothing." The pixie-like vampire said, smiling. Not a vision in sight, not a worry in the world right now.
"Bella!" Esme called out as she swept into the room, wrapping the girl up in a gentle hug. "Let's move to the kitchen! I want to make a new recipe with you!" She said, whisking the child away to make some snacks for the human while her family played.
Cooking with Esme was always fun, even though the vampire couldn't entirely taste the foods, she still seemed to know how much seasoning to put in without having one overpower the other. Bella was glad she could learn things from the woman, her mother wasn't really known for her cooking so Bella basically taught herself, as well as Charlie not being allowed to go into the kitchen unless it was for beer.
The last bit of waiting passed without a hitch, and fairly quickly for everyone in the house, the group gathered in the living room as they made sure they had everything they needed. The bat, the gloves, a few balls just in case they lost some, and then some extra bats for the ones that would no doubt be broken.
"Well, that's everything." Carlisle smiled at his Coven, glad Bella had a small picnic basket full of snacks so she wouldn't get uncomfortable while they played. "Shall we head out?"
A murmur of agreement went around the Coven, the vampires each grabbing something to carry as they headed out. Edward hefted Bella on his back, grinning at her and giving her cheek a peck. "Close your eyes." He warned before taking off with the rest of his family.
"Ugh, I hate this part..." Bella groaned out, closing her eyes tightly and shuddering as she felt the wind rush by her.
Teams were picked, Edward and Emmett being the captains as they stared each other down; each equipped with their own cocky smirk.
"Ready to be taken down, M&M?"
A snort was his immediate answer, followed by, "Yeah right, Eddy. You just be ready to eat those words!"
Esme chuckled softly. "Call it."
"Heads." Edward called before Emmett could get a chance, grinning at him triumphantly at the small victory.
"Tails." Even though it wasn't needed, the burly vampire just had to throw his two-cents in there as he stuck his tongue out lightly at his brother.
Flipping the coin high in the air, Esme slapped it down on the back of her hand and waited a suspenseful moment before slowly peeling her hand away from the coin, revealing which side was staring at them. "Heads, Edward's team bats first." The wife of the Sire said before joining Bella at the bleachers, smiling happily.
"Don't matter, we're still gunna kick yer ass!"
Chuckling softly at their sibling rivalry, Bella rolled her shoulders a bit to relax as much as she could while she settled down to watch the game. It wouldn't be good if she got a stiff and sore back. Her eyes would already be sore after the game, her human eyes couldn't possibly even try to keep up with the ball, those fast balls, emphasis on fast, weren't even a blur. Added to the fact the teenage girl wasn't really into sports and barely even know how to follow regular baseball to begin with. Not that being able to follow baseball would help her, since vampires moved way too damn fast. Still though, Bella was content with watching what she could, and listening to Esme commentate on the game and letting her know what was happening.
About an hour into the game and Esme's lips pressed together lightly as the pit of her stomach tightened, the hairs on the back of her neck standing up. Something was definitely off, the sense of security and peace that was settled over the Coven hours ago now starting to slowly dissipate.
Something is wrong...
The thought barely fluttered through her mind before something whizzed by her and tackled Bella.
"Aah!" The wind being knocked out of her as something collided into her, Bella tumbled on the ground with whatever it was that tackled her. She gasped in a breath desperately as the world spun around her sickeningly for a moment, briefly wondering how many times it was going to do that today. Rolling a bit, she cried out in fright when hands grabbed her roughly. "Edward!" She immediately shrieked in fear once her breath was back in her lungs.
"Bella!" Roared out the bronze-haired vampire, bolting over with a loud snarl as his pupils dilated in rage.
Everyone acted at once, the Coven rushing over to their friend and surrounding her in a loose circle.
"Wait, don't make any sudden movements." Carlisle warned, eyes glued on the small blonde male pinning Bella on her stomach and crouched on top of her.
Creven growled lowly, fingers tightening around the soft arms of the girl he was pinning down, not caring if he bruised the pale skin. He lowered his body so his chest was almost brushing along her back, crimson hues flitting from vampire to vampire. Fear seized his heart, tightening around the organ and making it beat quicker as his body started to tremble lightly.
Jasper frowned softly, brows furrowing a bit. Why was he so afraid...? He glanced to Edward, silently relaying the information about the boy's emotional state.
Edward frowned deeply, giving Jasper a slightly irritated expression. He didn't care if this boy was afraid! He was attacking Bella!
Said human was wincing as she could feel the fingers bruising her upper arms, looking desperately to her boyfriend as tears started to prick at her eyes from the panic quickly consuming her. Was this another vampire attack? Why the hell was she always targeted? Did she have some sort of vampire target on her back or something? "Edward..." She whimpered out softly, shaking from the pain and fear in her body.
He smiled as encouragingly as he could, topaz eyes softening slightly as he gazed into those wide, doe brown eyes. "It'll be okay, baby, just hang on."
"Just be careful, steady." Carlisle said softly, eying the trembling blonde. "We don't know what he'll do to Bella if he's startled."
Creven growled lowly, head lowering down as the sound was saturated with fear. His mouth hovered over the girl's jugular, lips parting lightly to show sharp fangs off in warning.
Both Jasper and Edward twitched in shock, the empathic vampire frowning deeply at the waves of extreme hunger crashing into him. His throat nearly dried up from the feeling wafting off the small blonde. The telepathic vampire was flooded with incoherent ramblings, the boy's thoughts seeming too fast and fleeting for Edward to pinpoint anything he was thinking.
HUNGRY
Was suddenly shouted in Edward's mind, the vampire almost reeling back from the unexpected word before his eyes narrowed dangerously. "Oh, hell no." He growled out, his glare hardening as pale lips drew over long fangs.
"Edward, don't." Carlisle warned, voice stern as he glanced over to his son with a frown.
"He's going to kill her!" Edward snarled out anxiously, fingers twitching as his body shook with the effort to stay still.
Hard wood suddenly slammed into Creven's side, knocking the startled blonde away from Bella as his ribs cracked loudly from the impact. Rosalie huffed a bit, swinging the bat to her shoulder as she glowered at the small boy.
Given his chance, the vampire bolted. Creven definitely wasn't expecting another attack so fast after the first one, the young blonde yelping when his ribs caved in under a well placed kick. The sound of his ribs breaking even more was unmistakeable and heard by all as the boy cried out in pain, being flung from his his first landing spot and crashing into the bleachers. The wooden planks splintered as he landed on. Coughing up globs of blood, Creven whimpered and growled in pain, his bones snapping back into place and the scratches on his skin from the wooden splinters sizzling closed.
Emmett jerked into action, having previously been paralyzed with disbelief. Frozen from the vision before him, the burly vampire almost thought he was dreaming, except he hadn't done that in years, decades. Rushing over to the fox-child, he crouched down to gaze into the crimson hues. Was this really his angel? Or was it some cruel, twisted joke? There were some obvious differences, those red eyes and elfish ears being the most obvious, but that scent. That orange vest, those whisker marks.
Bolder than I remember.
Topaz hues stared coldly at Edward and Rosalie as Emmett turned his head to regard his siblings with a dark look. Ignoring the way they both looked at him with confusion, he turned his attentions back to his angel and cooed gently at the blonde.
Creven flinched away, hissing at the vampire as ruby pools eyed the creature with suspicion. He growled uncertainly, body trembling as he lowered his stomach to the grass. Elfish ears giving a small twitch, he yipped out gently at the cooing vampire, swallowing down a lump of fear in his throat.
A smile curled pale lips when he was yipped at, Emmett giving a pleased purr as his chest puffed slightly in satisfaction. Inching a bit closer, the large vampire reached his hand out, holding it out for his angel.
Blinking at the hand, Creven shrunk back with a small whimper as the stench of vampire stung his nose. This creature was a vampire, no matter what kinds of comforting sounds he made! Vampires couldn't be trusted... Only Josh could!
Emmett frowned softly before giving him a gentle look, purring softly and making a calming trilling sound in the back of his throat.
"What... Is going on?" Alice asked her Sire softly, not wanting to speak up too loud in case it set off the small blonde.
"I'm not sure... I think he's trying to communicate with him?"
"No, it's not that." Jasper said softly, frown deepening at the emotions wafting and radiating from his brother. Such strong emotions, it was starting to get overwhelming.
Emmett grinned widely as the petite blonde started to inch towards him, that cute nose twitching as he sniffed at the air around the vampire. He had been ready to pull the lithe body in for a hug, until he blinked and the little angel was no longer in front of him. Topaz eyes snapped over to Bella, pupils widening as he caught the flash of orange and black darting for the human.
Ignore these cretins and feed.
Edward cringed, lifting a hand to his head as a snarling voice boomed in his head, echoing throughout the blonde's. What...?
But... Familiar...
Oh? You're actually talking with me now? A large grin showcased sharp teeth, the ivory spears glinting in the dim lighting as large tails gracefully swayed in the dingy water. Yes, I suppose that particular cretin is familiar. Maybe I'll give your memories back if you behave and listen to me.
My memories...?
Brows furrowing in confusion as the private conversation going on inside the blonde's head, Edward hissed and winced as his head throbbed in pain. "What...?" Seriously, what was that voice? Did this boy have a case of split personality disorder?
"Edward? Are you okay?" Carlisle cursed softly as his oldest son fell to his knees. "What's wrong?"
He held a hand out to his Sire, the other covering his face as he trembled lightly from the throbbing in his skull.
Yes, you want your memories, don't you? Then feed!
Feed...
Grabbing the human by the ankle, Creven yanked the girl close, jaws parting to once again reveal sharp teeth.
"No!" Edward snarled out, lunging at the blonde. Hard body colliding with a soft one, the vampire almost caring about the contrast and the risk of injury to the small boy. Almost. His brain not entirely catching up with his instincts, sharp teeth sliced through the thin material of a black shirt on the boy's shoulder, Edward's fangs piercing the soft flesh hidden beneath.
Shrieking in terror and agony, the petite blonde thrashed in the vampire's hold as crimson hues widened considerably.
"Edward!" Carlisle hissed out in surprise, eyes wide from just how fast the other had bolted over even after his sudden migraine.
Golden orbs widening in rage, his mind clouding over and being consumed by the emotional fire that someone touched his angel, his! He took large steps towards his brother, snarling loudly as he caught the scent of his beloved's blood.
"HOW DARE YOU?!" Josh bellowed out, purple orbs sparking in animosity as he slammed into the bastard who dared bite his brother. Digging his fingers into diamond hard skin, he tore the vampire from Creven and hurled him away. "Scum!"
The new arrival had everyone jumping back a good distance, about 100 yards, everyone tense from both the scent of blood in the air and the obviously enraged vampire.
Josh hissed, standing in front of his brother protectively as he watched the bastard with his brother's blood on his lips go towards a terrified human girl, standing in front of her much the same why he was with Creven.
Venom coursed through his veins, a sensation he was all too familiar with as Creven clutched at his shoulder, gasping as his lungs burned with each intake of air. His nails curved to claws, Creven slicing them into his shoulder as he started to claw and tear at the bite wound. Trembling, he fell to his knees, eyes wide and watering as he whimpered for his brother. "Burns! Hurts! Burns!"
Whirling around, Josh scooped his now sobbing brother in his arms, grabbing his bloody hand to stop him from causing anymore harm to his own body. "Hush... Hush..." He spoke softly, kissing a sweaty forehead. "I'll take the pain away..."
Carlisle frowned deeply, watching closely. What was he going to do?
All eyes widened as the purple-eyed vampire sunk his fangs into the wounded shoulder, drinking deeply from the small blonde. His eyes pinned each Cullen with a chilling glare, arms circled around his trembling brother.
Crimson drained from the irises, darkening to amethyst before lightening to those sparkling cerulean jewels Emmett cherished so much. There they were... Those lovely eyes his angel used to gaze at him with. Shaking himself out of his stupor, he snarled loudly. "What the hell're you doing?!" He stepped closer to the two, fingers twitching and flexing as golden pools burned furiously.
Removing his fangs from his brother's poor shoulder, Josh hissed as he bared his bloody fangs at the vampire. "Back off! Don't come closer!" Backing away a few steps, he gazed at each Cullen quickly, back rigid and ears ringing with the sizzling of Creven's healing skin.
"Emmett." Carlisle said softly, giving the younger vampire a warning look. He gazed back at the new comer, holding his hands up in a placating manner. "No one is going to hurt you, either of you. But I must insist that you allow me to look at him... I'm a doctor, and he has lost a lot of blood."
"He's fine." Josh snarled out, lowering his mouth to the bloody shoulder as suckling lightly at the healing wound. He only pulled back when he couldn't taste the venom in Creven's blood anymore, grimacing at the burn in his throat. It was like acid.
"Would you stop that?!" Emmett snarled out, body buzzing with the need to snap this guy's neck.
"Shut up!" Josh snapped out, jaws slamming together loudly in his fury.
"Loud..."
The soft voice had all eyes back on the blonde, the slow heart beat telling the Cullen's ears' that this boy was going to die from blood-loss.
"Please, let me help. His heartbeat is getting too slow." Carlisle frowned deeply, his concern for the boy skyrocketing.
Josh scoffed lightly, curling an arm underneath his brother's rear to support his weight as Creven curled into a small ball and tucked himself against a cold chest. "He's fine."
"No mortal can survive that much blood-loss, please!" Carlisle wasn't sure what these two creature's relationship was, but if this vampire continued to be stubborn then the blonde would be lost forever.
"I want to go back..." Creven whined out, shivering as his body felt incredibly cold. Usually he could deal with his brother's body temperature, but now he had no way of regulating his own. "Don't like it here..."
"Shh... We're going back, don't worry..." Josh said softly, staring at the obvious Sire of the Coven. "We're leaving."
Emmett took a step forward, eyes locked on his beloved blonde. He smiled gently, cooing softly. "Hey." His voice was unusually soft, the boisterous tone no longer booming out. Emmett's insides nearly melted as those blue jewels looked at him, a pleasured purr sounding in his chest as he smirked lightly. "My beautiful angel."
Shock filtered through the group, pairs of golden eyes looking to their brother/son, amethyst pools widening in a bit of rage. His what?
"Excuse me?" Josh snarled out, glowering darkly at the pompous son of a bitch.
Hissing at the purple-eyed vampire, Emmett's instincts flared, screaming at him to get his beloved back from that asshole. "Let him go."
"Excuse me?" He hissed out once more, eyes narrowing dangerously.
"I said, 'let him go'." Emmett growled, eyes flashing ferally.
Creven trembled, squirming around uncomfortably from the hissing match between his brother and this strange vampire who seemed so very familiar. "Please... Stop... I just want to go back..."
Eyes softening, both Josh and Emmett looked to the small blonde with gentle expressions.
"I'm sorry, little brother." Josh whispered out softly, smoothing over blonde locks.
Carlisle tilted his head slightly, listening to the heartbeat of the boy. It was picking up again... How strange. He relaxed a bit, giving a soft sigh of relief. "Why don't we go back to the house...?" He suggested, smiling lightly.
"Are we just going to ignore that runt trying to kill Bella?" Edward growled out, arms around his lover protectively as he glared at the two strangers.
"No," Carlisle leveled a calm stare at his oldest son. "We are not ignoring anything."
"Che..." Josh snorted lightly, leveling the human with an indifferent stare. "Your human pet is not on my priority list."
"How dare you?!" Honey colored hues widening, Edward snarled as he leaned forward a bit, the only thing keeping him back was Bella being held in his arms.
Josh smirked arrogantly at Edward, holding his chin up high as he gave the other a condescending look. "Oh? What? How dare I not care about such a little insect?"
Roaring his fury, Edward lunged for the vampire. His eyes narrowed as he watched the blonde being shoved aside, slamming into Josh. He pushed off of him, making sure he used enough strength to force the other away. Turning on his heel quickly, Edward snarled as he aimed for the throat of Creven. Rage and his protective instincts clouded his better judgment as he attacked.
Emmett intercepted his brother, wincing as their bodies collided painfully before snarling at the other. He slid in front of his angel, crouching protectively in front of him. "Sorry, Eddy, can't let you do that."
"Emmett?! What the hell?! Why are you protecting him?!"
"Edward." Carlisle called out, frowning deeply. "Enough, there is no need to fight."
Freezing at his Sire's words, the bronze-haired vampire scowled deeply before appearing next to his girlfriend's side. Wrapping her up in a protective embrace once more, he leaned down to whisper in her ear gently. "Sorry, Bella..."
"It's okay..." She whispered back, curling close to her lover. "Do they know each other...?" She asked softly, looking at Emmett and the strange blonde child.
Ears burning from the fluttering of his beloved's heart, Emmett quickly spun around and caught the small body in his arms. "Angel, are you alright?" Worry creased his brows, topaz hues sparkling with concern as he gently touched his shoulder with drying blood clinging to the shirt and skin.
Shaking himself off from the sudden attack, Josh growled lowly as he saw the brute hugging his brother close. He couldn't take drinking down more venom! And he was sure his brother's body would fall apart if he was injected so soon after the last time. He snatched his brother quickly out of the arms of the pompous jerk, turning his body to act as a shield between Creven and Emmett. "Don't touch him!"
Fury raged inside him as his angel was taken away from him, hand snatching out and curling around a pale throat as he snarled. "He is mine to touch!" Instincts that hadn't been with him in so long suddenly reared back up, the need to be with his Mate almost driving him mad.
Cerulean hues blinked up at the strange vampire owlishly, a small hand reaching out and pawing gently at the large one throttling his brother. "Don't hurt him..." He whined out softly, giving Emmett a pleading look.
Expression immediately softening, the golden-eyed vampire released a cold throat to gently cradle a warm hand in his own. "I won't." He cooed softly, not wanting to displease his angel. That pleading expression directed at him made something deep inside him thrum with pride.
A soft pink dust settled over pale-tan cheeks and the bridge of his nose, Creven blinking shyly up at the other male. "Ano..."
Josh slapped away the brute's hand, glowering heatedly. "Did I not say, 'don't touch him'?"
"I don't have to listen to you." Emmett hissed lightly before he smiled gently at his blonde angel. "If he doesn't want to be touched, he'd say it himself."
Josh trembled in rage, teeth clenching and grinding together. He glanced over the Sire when the vampire started speaking, eyes narrowing at him.
"Excuse us," Carlisle cleared his throat lightly, smiling placating. "Forgive me for interrupting, but perhaps we really should move this discussion back at the house?" Kind, golden eyes gazed at the small blonde, the doctor wanting to make sure he was really alright. His heart sounded nice and strong again, but still, he suffered grave injuries.
"Why should I bring my brother to a house full of vampires?"
"I promise, we won't hurt him. We're vegetarian vampires, we only drink the blood of animals."
Blinking amethyst orbs at the Sire, his shoulders relaxed just a bit. That explained why none of the vampires had tried to rip his brother apart once they smelt his blood... "You're the Cullens?"
"Yes, my name is Carlisle, this is my wife Esme." Motioning to his wife with a smile. "You've heard of us?"
"Yes. I was going to meet with you tomorrow, but it seems that meeting was moved up..." Josh grit his teeth with annoyance, trying to be more civilized now.
"You were going to meet with us...?" Carlisle looked to Alice, brow arching at the shrug and look of confusion. "Well, why don't we move this meeting? This weather isn't the best condition for your friend."
Reluctantly agreeing, Josh followed the Coven to a lavish house, looking at it with a small frown. Well... At least they had good taste in style. His arms tightened around the ball that was his brother, Josh rigid and on high alert. He wasn't very fond of this situation...
"Please, have a seat." The Sire said politely, taking his own seat and watching the other stiffly sit in a chair. "Now, why were you seeking us out?"
A bead of sweat dripped down Jasper's temple, his face tense from all the emotions swirling around in the room. This was going to tear him apart from the inside out... A tense smile was given to his lover when she patted his hand with one of her own.
"I made a deal." Loosening his arms as his brother shifted around to curl up in his lap, he settled a cold hand on soft spikes, petting them gently.
"A deal?" Rosalie scoffed, eying the two new comers with disdain. Especially the blonde brat curled up comfortably. Why was he so important to Emmett?
Josh growled lowly at the she-vampire, not liking the way she was eyeballing his brother.
Carlisle gave his daughter a pointed look before sighing softly. "What kind of deal?"
"To take up your... Practice."
Blinking a few times at the purple-eyed vampire, he couldn't help but smile. "Our practice? Do you mean our way of life?"
Nodding, he combed his fingers through golden hair, relaxing a bit as the fox-child started to purr contentedly. "Creven wants to make a home here, and the condition I must meet is to feed solely on animal blood."
"Solely? You say that as if your diet is mixed?"
"It is. I mostly feed on animals."
"Mostly..." Carlisle hummed out softly. Settling his eyes on the purring blonde, he smiled gently. "What does he eat?"
"Animals."
"Bullshit." Edward frowned deeply, eyes narrowing. "Then why did he try and kill Bella?"
Frowning deeply, Josh glanced down at his brother. "That wasn't Creven's fault." He must have been scared by the storm enough where he went instinctual. Usually he would barricade the other in a room and stay with him until the storm passed, but this time he had been too late.
Emmett's arms crossed over his chest. "Stop calling him that."
Sharp amethyst hues glared at the vampire. "It's his name."
"No, it's not. He's Japanese, he wouldn't have an Irish name."
Josh blinked a few times, eying the man suspiciously. How did he know...? Creven was Japanese, but he didn't look like his nationality.
Why does he talk like he knows me?
Azure hues gazed over at Emmett, curiosity whirling in his mind.
Because he does.
Edward nearly reeled back as he heard that voice once more, a twitch going through his body.
He does...?
Sharp teeth glinted with a vicious grin. Oh, what a drastic mistake that was. Yes, he does. Would you like a glimpse into your memories? His fun may have been cut off back in that field, but he was rearing to go once more.
Yes! I want my memories back!
Good. But if I help you, then you owe me.
Honey-colored pools widened, Edward's earlier rage aimed towards the small blonde dissipated as he heard that voice. That voice had an aura all of it's own, and it wasn't a pleasant one. "Don't do it!" He stood abruptly, startling everyone in the room. "Don't make a deal with that voice!"
"Edward...?" Bella called out softly, wondering what voice he was talking about. Was there another vampire with telepathic abilities...? But could they talk inside someone's mind?
You can hear me? How interesting, a cretin with telepathic abilities.
What...?
He can hear your thoughts, and my voice.
Oh...
"Don't listen to that voice, no matter what they say, do not listen to them." Edward said softly, kneeling down so he could better gaze into blue eyes.
"But... My memories..."
Josh frowned deeply, cradling his brother as he glowered chillingly at Edward.
"Memories came back on their own, you just have to give it time."
How much time...?
Emmett frowned deeper, brows furrowing. His angel didn't remember anything? "Do you remember your name?"
"My name...? It's Creven..."
Shaking his head lightly, Emmett's chest constricted tightly. "No, your real name."
He couldn't believe it. Reunited with his beloved angel, only for his memories to be lost. What a cruel twist of fate, a cruel joke.
"My... Real name...?" Creven's head tilted a bit as he struggled to remember something, anything, about his past before Josh. "I can't... I can't remember..."
Josh frowned deeply, cooing softly to his brother to try and comfort him. His arms wrapped the other up in a loving hug, Josh nuzzling his nose to a soft cheek. "It's okay."
Emse watched the two with a pitying gaze, wishing there was something they could do for the poor blonde. "How long has he gone with amnesia...?"
"Since 1868, possibly sooner."
Carlisle's brows lifted to his hairline, eyes widening a fraction. "1868... How is it that he only looks 14...?"
Because he died when he was 14. Emmett's teeth clenched with his thought before he quickly started to repeat the Greek Alphabet in his head. Even though Edward would most likely be preoccupied by his angel's thoughts, he didn't want to risk it.
"I'm not entirely sure..." Josh said softly, looking down at his brother. "He was feral when me and my sister found him, didn't know anything."
"Interesting... He isn't a vampire... However, he doesn't smell entirely human... Something about his scent is different, but I've never come across something like this."
"Yeah, well, doesn't matter what he is, Creven's my brother and I'll do everything to protect him." Josh said with a deep frown, gazing down at the blonde in his lap.
Emmett scoffed a bit, loathing the name his beloved was called. He would have to fix that, but for now he'd wait until his angel was recovered from his blood-loss. Mental strain with physical strain was not a good combo.
"Why don't you sleep?" Josh whispered softly to his brother, watching him struggling to keep his eyes open.
"He can use one of our guest rooms, he'd be very comfortable there." Esme said softly with a smile.
"He's not leaving my side." Josh immediately said, still a bit on edge. He blinked when a sudden wave of drowsiness hit him, brow arching a bit as he felt like he wanted to curl up and nap. "What the...?"
Creven blinked, fighting against the spell of sleepiness with a soft sound. What was this? He hadn't felt this tired a few seconds ago?
As if I would allow one of you to influence me and my host. Scoffing, the large creature snarled as a heated wave of pure chakra pulsed through Creven's body, eliminating any effects on his body.
Edward couldn't stop his body from stiffening again as he heard that voice, putting a hand to his head. "Jasper's power isn't working...?" He never met someone who could cancel Jasper's powers out, not even Bella.
You know, I'm getting tired of your lack of personal space.
Cringing, topaz eyes widened as a vision of sharp teeth and blood-red eyes snarled at him. Pain, excruciating pain flared in his head, causing Edward to stumble back and fall on his rear.
Stay out!
Was the last snarled thought booming in the vampire's head before the blonde's mind became completely silent.
"Edward?! Are you alright?!" Bella quickly knelled next to her boyfriend, worry clearly written all over her face.
"Y-Yeah..." He breathed out shakily, whole body trembling in pain as it radiated from his head.
Creven shivered, gripping his head lightly in his hands and whimpering. "Y-You angered him..."
I'm getting very tired of these cretins.
Arms hiding his brother from the vampire's view, Josh hissed at Edward, glowering icily at the other once more. "Would you leave him alone?!" He wasn't sure what it was the vampire was doing, but he needed to stop.
Narrowing his eyes at the amethyst-eyed vampire, Edward bit back a growl.
Clearing his throat lightly, Carlisle wanted to get back on topic. "Boys." He said softly, a kind and patient smile on his face. "To get back on topic; if you want to take up our way of life, then you'll have to live with us for awhile."
His back went stiff at that. "... Live with you?"
"Yes," The Sire nodded. "So we can properly mentor you."