Feels like I have been working on this chapter for forever, you all know that feeling I'm sure. Well it is done now so I am posting it, and hoping people will enjoy it. Read, review, ect.

WarNinGs: Back story, focus on secondary charters, nothing else that new.

Aishi Say

"I've been prey before,
now I'm predator,
I'm cold inside,
Like a vampire."

From Catrien Maxwell's 'Like a Vampire', had this song stuck in my head for a while now.

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Wavy rose red hair shifted with a shake of the head, it did nothing to clear it but it was reflex really. The pack of Hunters had used cheep Wiccan tricks to weaken her and now advanced slowly, jeering at their cornered prey. Coughing she could do little but glare and hiss with her powers slowly returning to her. Dark eyes grew wide when the hunters began to fall around her, a perfect head shot for all but their leader. Two shots and he was on the alleyway's cold asphalt as well. Unsure she had dragged herself about a foot away from the shocked human, rain diluting the blood that had leaked from the human bodies that now littered the alleyway. Hunger flared for a moment before dark eyes focused on a black shape that had dropped down from above, human as well. The lead hunter looked up at it in fear, begging and pleading. Cries turned to outrage and rants as the figure turned and knelt before her. Katherine blinked up into dark green eyes, sure she had never seen them before. Confused but unafraid she blinked when she no longer felt the rain, looking down at the black garment now protecting her. Pulling it tightly around her shoulders she looked back up at the strange human, his expression as calm as ever. Glancing at the dead over his shoulder she frowned, "Why?"

Head tilted slightly as she was regarded for a moment, "You needed my help."

Katherine blinked, his voice was so calm, his answer so logical she was confused, "But you do not know me, I do not understand you."

"I dislike their kind, is that not enough of a reason to save you?" Frown was thoughtful, pose relaxed, tone even.

Katherine considered that, she had to admit the child's logic was sound, the fact he was not eying her torn dress as some human males would did not hurt. She sensed no dark intent in the child, only simple curiosity. He was watching her like a house cat might and she smiled a little, he even resembled one. "Thank you for my life stranger, and thank you for your kindness."

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Katherine yawned as she sat up, turning her head when she sensed her sired near, turning her head she smiled. Reaching out she took his hands, they had always been so warm, "I was just dreaming of you. It is a pity Lord Winner and his daughter see nothing but claws and fangs."

Trowa shook his head, "What they see hardly matters Sister. You really should not sleep in when there are so many annoyances about."

"That is why I have you, to claw all their little eyes out." Katherine grinned up at him before squeezing his hands, "Will you go to Mother again?"

"If you have no need of me yes," Trowa answered glancing down at their hands, the gentlest hands he had ever known belonged to monsters.

Katherine smiled at the young man she had chosen, the young man with such curious and gentle eyes. "Go, even if your blood does little just being near helps her I know it." She hoped his blood was helping, it hurt watching her mother fade away, it hurt them both. Lips curled into a smile when warm lips brushed her cheek before he moved away from her, nodding as he walked out. Sighing softly she wondered just what Lord Winter would do when he learned his only son had been charmed by those kind eyes.

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Rachelle smiled as she stroked soft hair, her beloved child dozing bellow her fingers. She hummed softly content that her child was safe and at peace. Her daughter was worried his violently protective nature would slowly kill the kindness in his eyes. Neither of them wished for that, he had not been made immortal so his soul could die rather then its shell. "A leanbh mo chléibh go n-eirí do chodhladh leat. Séan is sonas gach oíche do chóir. Tá mise le do thaobh ag guídhe ort na mbeannacht. Seothín a leanbh is codail go foill."

"hm?" Trowa murmured partially turning his head, dried blood flaking and cracking.

"It is something I used to sing to your sister when she slept like this." Rachelle answered softly, smiling when he half opened his eyes. "I did not mean to wake you though, you do need to sleep sometime."

Trowa sighed as he lowered his head, he did not really care to be awake just then either. "I will, tell me what you said?"

Rachelle smiled when Trowa laid back down, he felt weak but he was still so curious, chuckling softly she shook her head. "Child of my heart sleep calmly. And well all night and be happy. I am by your side praying for blessings on you. Hush-a-bye, baby and sleep for now." Ruby nails stroked soft hair as she spoke, knowing he would be still once his curiosity was satisfied.

Trowa sighed softly, it sounded like something a mother would sing to their child, "Thank you Mother."

"Shh…the Spirits speak of mists and quiet." Rachelle hummed softly as the child slipped back into the stillness of sleep. Content she smiled fondly, looking up when the door opened, "Beloved."

"How do you feel Rachelle?" Daniel watched her as continued to stroke the young man's hair calmly.

"I am well, how could a mother be otherwise when their children are safe and sound?" Rachelle smiled down at the child, "Are you afraid for him?"

"No, I wanted to see if this is really helping you." Daniel tolerated the Made, he could even respect him at times, but he knew they would never be close.

Rachelle looked up, silver eyes bright in the candle light, "I believe it is, you should not take your frustrations out on the boy, he is very dangerous you know?"

Daniel shook his head as he sat down on the edge of the bed, canopies drawn so they hung like so many webs. "I am well aware Love, I do not understand it."

Rachelle giggled amused, "Perhaps you should ask Darius? He would still be please to hear I am not a rabid beast yes?"

Daniel frowned at the name but sighed, "I would rather speak to his son, the boy lives as he speaks."

"I would very much enjoy meeting Katrina's son," Rachelle smiled brightly at the idea, his scent had been warm and delicate on her son's hands.

"We shall see, after all his family does not favor our kind." Daniel shook his head before he leaned close, tilting Rachelle's face so he could kiss her. "See to him Love, he is expected at the Gathering."

"He will be there, he needs only a little sleep." Rachelle could feel him easily, his powers recharging even as she answered.

"Things have been peaceful and Yui is here at least. Rest well, Katherine will come by afterward." Daniel patted her shoulder before walking out, he had a lot to think about.

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Trowa yawned before licking his lower lip, turning he tilted his head, "Can I help you Duo?'

"Hey Cy, Blue Eyes not out here with you?" Duo asked looking around, as if finding a Vampire in the shadows was that easy, bats.

"Hi-kun is already inside, I smell Hilde but I do not see her." Trowa frowned slightly, she was likely also inside, she was hardly afraid of Hiro either.

"Meeting Cat, she'll be thrilled you asked about her." Duo teased with a grin as the Made walked up to him. Blinking he frowned at him, "Dude you all right?"

Trowa tilted his head as he folded his sleeves half way up his lower arms, "I am fine, why?'

"You look a little pale, I swear I am not making a Vamp joke here kay?" Duo knew it was not the black dress shirt, he had seen the Made in black a lot.

Trowa arched a brow at him, "I do not claw friends for jokes, even bad ones. I am weak but fine really, there is no need for concern."

"Weak why? What happened?" Duo could give a fuck if he said don't worry, a Vamp weaken enough to pale was worth worrying about.

Trowa sighed, he did not care to answer but he knew he could trust Duo, the other lied as well as Quatre. "Has Quatre mentioned Katherine's mother?"

"Just that you are close to her too, makes perfect sense to me. Did something happen to her?" Duo knew her a little by reputation, she was the calm Bloom, seemed to run in the female side of the family.

Trowa nodded absently, arms crossing as he looked towards the hall, "Before I was even born."

Duo blinked, from the Made's tone he assumed the Made meant as a mortal, which had to be over twenty years ago. "You lost me? Sorry not all here."

"The Madness Duo," Trowa glanced at the Warlock, his expression a mix of sympathy and concern as had been expected. "It seems my blood does her some good."

"Now that I follow. See I know more about the Dark Arts then Cat, shocking I know. Now this is all Magic Theory stuff, not your area I guess since you are a human Made, which is cool. Basic theory adds to the fact former mortals like you have the best blood for energy transfers since you use to be food. Since you are a close blood relation that also helps, just like with mortals, that is all fact. The theory part is also willingness, energy transference works best with willing partners, doesn't mater what kind. Add it all up and you are the perfect sacrifice for someone like her, luckily it seems to work without killing you." Duo kept his focus on the Made's face, he was learning how to read him, subtle changes were very important.

Trowa considered Duo's theory, it made logical sense to him, as well as why she had wanted him and not Katherine, Katherine's blood was not what she needed. "Slowly, and I am unsure if the effects are temporary."

"Well seems to me as long as she feeds on you she won't get any worst, what it will do to you is less clear." Duo knew weaken the Made would be slain eventually, fear of him would only keep the sharks away for so long.

"What happens to me is irrelevant, it always has been. Katherine would not be willing to trade my existence for her mother's, nor would her mother allow such a trade." Trowa closed his eyes, they would both rather see Lady Bloom mad or dead instead of him.

Duo bit his lip, he was not sure what to say to that. He had no doubt Quatre would get all teary and cling, but he was not Quatre. "They are your family, I'd miss ya too."

Trowa turned his attention back to Duo, head titling quizzically at him, "Why?"

"You're not so bad silly, you really are not use to this whole friends caring thing huh? No big you'll get use to it," Duo assured the Made patting his shoulder, the braided youth was not worried about losing a hand.

"You make friendship sound like a chronic disease, you know this don't you?" Trowa asked still looking skeptical, teasing or not Duo did not make friendship sound very appealing.

Duo blinked before grinning, yeah he could live with seeing more of this not deadish guy, "You don't see me looking for a cure now do you?"

Trowa frowned slightly, shaking his head at Duo before looking up, "Your friend needs professional help."

Hilde smiled as she stopped between the two young looking men in black, "Duo don't scare the scary Vampire hm?"

"Why does Duo need help exactly?" Quatre asked stopping across from Hilde, he was pretty sure Barton was not entirely serious, pretty sure.

"The guy says I make friendship sound like a chronic disease, since I told him he'll get use to it." Duo answered, noting green eyes remained on Quatre until the Made gave him a skeptical look, "Humans."

"Be nice Duo he can't help it," Hilde soothed, taking Barton's arm she smiled up at him, frowning a little after a moment. "You all right Kitten?"

"Just tried Hilde, Duo already heard the whole story." Trowa did not care to repeat the conversation, Duo could fill them in while he and Hiro were working.

"Poor thing, you look more Vampy with less color," Hilde gave his bangs a gentle tug before moving up to Duo, taking his arm with a smile. "Cat tell him not to work too hard and then come on in, we'll save you seat."

"Do you plan on chiding me Quatre?" Trowa asked turning to face him, eyes glowing slightly in the dark just for show.

Quatre frowned slightly at the faint glow, like an animal's eyes in the night, "Have you been doing something you need to be chided for?"

"By my standers or others? Duo will tell you, he is trustworthy and so is Hilde." Trowa would not mind expanding his pride by three rather than only one, Witches were hardly so solitary.

Quatre opened his mouth to chide him before blinking, touched by the trust he was showing the pair he did not know nearly as well. "I will not chide you, but promise me you will take it easy?"

Trowa sighed softly at pleading dark eyes, so few people had ever looked at him like that. "After last night the Packs should be in a more docile mood, if not their blood will work just fine. Do not worry Quatre, I was hard to kill as a mortal."

Quatre frowned slightly but had to agree with his comment about the Packs, and that their blood would heal the Made if they acted up again. Dark eyes looked back up at the sound of his name, the inhuman glow was gone. The other's reassuring half smile was all the goodbye he gave as he turned and walked away. Quatre bit his lip, perhaps he was not as immune to a Vampire's stare as he once thought. Shaking his head he headed inside as well, more then happy to take a seat beside Hilde, "Did I miss anything?"

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

"Here," Hiro held out his wrist the moment he turned and saw Trowa stop behind him, he had never seen the Made look so pale with his clothes still fully intact.

"Don't," Trowa protested pushing Hiro's arm away before leaning against the stone wall, arms crossing as he looked away.

"Why do you refuse my help? What happen to you?" Hiro knew Trowa was weak, and he himself was no less stubborn when hurt, but the Made was his friend. Reaching out he closed his fingers around the other's upper arms, fast as Trowa was even at his best they both knew Hiro was the stronger of the two.

"I do not need help Hiro, I need sleep." Trowa answered turning to meet worried eyes, did he really look that bad? "Katherine's mother…"

"Baka!" Hiro snapped cutting the other off, before resting his forehead against Trowa's with a sigh, he was too damn loyal. "You need not have come here tonight if you needed to recover, there are other Knights."

Trowa sighed but did not bother to even try and break Hiro's grip, "None here you trust, or who can scare a room as we can."

"San-kun," Hiro said with a soft sigh, as if he was any better really. "Are you sure you do not need any of my blood?"

Trowa tilted his head at him, Hiro did not make such an offer to just anyone. Shaking his head at his friend he placed his hands on the other's shoulders, "Hi-kun you are adorable when you worry over nothing."

Hiro frowned at his friend, he would pout if he was a less serious person, "Pass out for all I care." Turning he froze, looking over his shoulder when Trowa caught his wrist, damn that smirk of his. "Change you mind?"

"Not at all," Trowa answered allowing his eyes to shift to red, even other things that went bump in the night knew glowing red meant danger. "I am in no mood to snarl at the stupid all night long, are you?"

Hiro sneered dark blue eyes flashing to the eerie glowing red so many humans cowered from on sight, "Hardly."

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Quatre glanced at Barton who had taken to stalking the right side of the room, Hiro the left. The few other lesser Knights were stationed at the entrances and the like, staying far away from the ruby eyed pair. He knew Barton was weak and should not be here, let alone working, but there was little he could do about it. Outside of Witch held lands they were of equal rank, he would be knighted once he passed his final challenge so he did not count that. Barton was a ranked Knight, but that was hardly surprising since non-ruby glares worked just fine half the time. This was the first time he had really seen what Duo called a 'Grr Face', which meant a transformation showing a creature's inhuman nature, Witches tended to just get glowing eyes and phantom winds at that stage. He would admit if he did not know Barton was hurting he would have found the paled skin and pointed elf akin ears an interesting change. The wolves who were normally rather brash kept their tails between their legs, clearly blood loss did not have a scent they recognized when there was no blood around. Sighing softly he listened to a fellow pacifist speak, Relena Peacecraft had taken over her father's work after his murder last year. He had seen a few Knights in their official attire then and wonder if one of the Bloods might have been Barton or Yui? One had been ranked of both Blood and Moon, Arcane had, of course, had more of their Knights around. A radical separatist group had been punished for the killing, and that had been the end of it. His fellow blonde was stressing the need for understanding rather then vindications and blame. She also lived as she preached earning her respect among the others, at least enough that they would hear her out. Perhaps she should acquire a scary Vampire as he had, Barton may think these talks futile but he made sure they happened. "What do you think Hilde?"

"Nice girl, but I wouldn't want her commanding troops let alone Knights." Hilde commented, well aware Quatre had been keeping an eye on Barton, who was pacing about like a bored albino kitty cat.

Duo yawned softly, "I'm with Hil on this one, Knight Commanders exist to lead their orders, they don't need every noble about bossing them around."

"You are only saying that because you will be facing your trial and be knighted yourself by Samhain." Hilde reminded her friend, she was more then happy to remain where she was in the hierarchy.

"So will I," Quatre reminded his newer friend, "I am also a noble so…"

"So are both of them, to Knights rank matters not nobility, besides they are both Ranked and scary." Duo was tried of pretty speeches, he was not sure they convinced anyone to do anything but tune out and maybe sleep.

Hilde shook her head at Duo, he was the same with long lectures as well, "Well Barton has been nothing but a gentleman towards me, a nice change from most Mades."

"A lot of them seem so defensive, Barton could care less what the masses think of him, now you start talking shit about Sis and he starts, literately, busting out your teeth. What? I saw the guy he did it too, tore them all out with his claws one by one." Duo had to say he was not surprised when he heard what had been said, slut, pet, bitch, the threesome with the mother was what had likely been the last straw.

Quatre bit his lip thinking about that, had he been that cruel as a human as well? It was not uncommon for a Made, of either race, to become a bit grayer after their change. Wolf morals were not like human's, and demons were not known to have any morals unless under contract. Once again he found himself wondering just what the humans had done to a child to make such violence a second nature response to threats. He decided quickly to just stop, he was sure he likely would upset himself greatly if he continued. "I wonder what she is like?"

"Who, his Mom?" Duo asked getting a blink, daydreaming again it seemed. "From what I have heard she was a lot like your old man mixed with her daughter. They knew each other since they both were into everyone getting along, and focusing their energy on the humans and demons out there. Well about thirty years ago people saw less and less of her, all shorts of crazy rumors started but it seems she had the Madness, as it is called. Now I am not exactly sure how old Kitty is, but it is safe to say she was going before he was even born. It seems she got really bad seven years ago, or so they say, Barton showed up roughly five."

"I heard she was always a little strange since she could divine things like some of our race can, but she was lovely and kind. Everyone who speaks of her laments the fact she is a raving beast locked away because Lord Bloom cannot bring himself to kill her." Hilde shook her head, it sounded so very tragic.

"She is hardly raving if she has been feeding off Barton enough to make him one step above human." Duo ignored the blinks of shock, "I am no expert, but since I do have a talent for some of the dark arts I have received some training you two never will. Cat you could probably beat him in a fist fight as long as he didn't go Grr on you."

"If he is that weak he should not even be here," Hilde protested not sure what he was even thinking, Yui could handle things just fine.

"He has to be here, Katherine is here, and his first duty is to protect her. Father said such Mades are sometimes called Chevaliers, bodyguards and companions rather then guards or troops for the Houses. She treats him like her brother, younger but still blood, not the help." Quatre was glad Barton had at least two people he considered family, Yui as well in his own way.

"She should just send him home, or at least feed him, he is useless to her as he is," Duo muttered as he crossed his arms, Vampires oi.

"They fear him, as long as they fear him he is far from useless to her, however I agree she or Yui should do something." Quatre admired the loyalty but was annoyed by the stubbornness, Barton really was good at bringing out conflicting emotions.

Hilde bit her lip, turning when it seemed everyone was done talking and they were free to go. Getting to her feet she shook her head, "I'm going to go powder my nose, you boys go on I'll meet you."

Duo stretched more then happy to be free to go, at least when he was full fledged Knight he would be free to work and not listen to these speeches anymore. "We can go get some coffee and sweets, all four races agree sweets are good."

"Duo I think most demons would as well," Hilde reminded her friend as she slipped past him and left the two males alone.

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

"Shouldn't you be warning me not to get too close to you?" Hilde asked as she walked up to the Made, leaning against a wall with his arms crossed he looked far from threatening.

"Why bother when you would not heed me?" Trowa responded as he turned his head to regard the Witch who was very dangerously close.

"That is because I am not afraid of you, and why should I be when you look half asleep already?" Reaching up she brushed some stray bangs back into the wing like mass that effectively hid his right eye from the world.

Trowa reached out catching her hand, lip cured to show a bit of fang, the Witch did not even blink. "You that sure I will not make a meal of you?"

"I am not worried you will kill me if that is what you are asking, that is for enemies not friends." Hilde took his hand, it felt wind chilled but not entirely unpleasant in her warmer ones. Looking up she smiled reassuringly at him, "I have always wondered what a bite felt like, I am sure you hear that a lot."

"I do, and they regret saying it each and every time," Trowa informed her studying his held hand, she was not afraid at all. "You do know weaken our powers are not always as controllable as we may like them to be?"

"If you were a threat you would already be feeding by now. I knew you would refuse Quatre, as you should considering his family's feelings on your kind. I was wondering if you would send me away as well, my mortal blood is of more use then Hiro's, or your sister's. My family does not mind your kind, and none will accuse you of any wrong doing, well besides my Aunt in good humor." Hilde smiled already hearing her calling him a naughty Kitten while patting his head.

Trowa considered that, Hilde called him Kitten as if she knew him, she really did not. Her instincts were sound at least, she had no reason what so ever to fear being this close to him. "Would you offer your blood to any Vampire you have known less then half a week?"

"No, just you and Yui, he is a little more formal, but I sense good in him same as you." Hilde had decided they were both good people, Yui just needed to lighten up a little as she hoped Barton would as he got to know them all better.

Trowa smiled at that, she was as insightful as Quatre in that respect, "How strange to be shunned by humans yet trusted by monsters."

Hilde examined the roughly inch and a half long pale claws of the hand she was still holding between her own human looking hands. Looking up she returned his smile, even glowing red his eyes were gentle. "Since when does being human make one so very humane?"

Trowa nodded, reaching out with his free left hand to trail his knuckles down her cheek. "I wish I would have met more people like you before…then maybe Katherine would not be so worried about me now." Leaning close he felt Hilde squeeze his hand as if to reassure him before he struck as gently as fangs allowed. The short fangs most movie goers knew were used for biting prey you did not wish to harm, fully extended ones were another mater entirely. Hilde clenched his hand but she could do it no harm so he ignored it, swallowing a few mouthfuls. Slashing his tongue on an extended left fang he ran it over the four small wounds to heal them. Pulling away he nodded at the unmarred flesh, "Was it what you were expecting?"

Hilde blinked at him before a hand went to her neck, blinking again she found no wound. "You always do that trick?"

"When my meal is not something I plan to kill yes, would you have preferred I had left a mark?" Trowa had seen a few show one off as if it was impressive, what was impressive is the feeder had not killed them out of annoyance.

"No!" Hilde answered very quickly, as it was Duo would shout something along the lines of you let him do what very loudly. Duo worried, jealously was not a problem, and worried he sometimes did stupid things, just like anyone else. "Duo's teasing would be relentless."

Trowa chuckled at that, no doubt Duo would have plenty to say on the matter, though he knew Duo did trust him. "Point taken."

Hilde smiled, it was nice the two of them were getting along so well, "To answer you no. Too many stories I guess, or did you not use a nasty demon trick on me?"

Trowa shook his head at Hilde as he crossed his arms, "I do not use charms on friends, it is a nasty habit to get into to."

"Well you don't need dark magic to get me to like you Silly Kitty," Hilde assured him before kissing his cheek, he felt warmer already. "Go get some sleep now hm?"

Trowa took her hand as he shifted back into his human form, kissing it he smiled at the young witch once more. "The best of us never do, see to Duo's humor until I see you again."

Hilde blushed slightly, she had always been a fan of gallant gentlemen, "I will see he behaves himself. Good night Barton."

"Good night Hilde," Trowa responded before turning and nodding to Hiro, bowing his head he turned and walked off with his fellow Knight of the Blood.

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

"Well as much as I would have enjoyed bonding time with our new blood sipping friends, and I would have, it is good you put Kitty to bed." Duo sipped his sweetened coffee with a content sigh, life was good.

Hilde blushed a little as she nibbled on her tart, the cherry red reminding her of blood more then usual, "He is use to taking playful orders from his sister."

"Katherine will just smile and congratulate you Hilde, she is very supportive of him making friends with non-killers." Quatre was not the least bit surprised Hilde had gone to Barton, they got along very well.

Hilde considered that, she had not been thinking about his sister when she had offered her power to him. His bite reminded her of a kitten she had cared for when she was a child, he had liked to nibble on her fingers with his little needle teeth. Not once had he left so much as a dent in her skin, his tongue had tickled as only a rough tongue could. "He looked tried but content."

"Hilde men like it when people baby them just a little, the guy grew up alone, way alone, so of course he likes you." Duo would worry if it was more then a close friendship, or the start of one. Playful flirting was normal, they both did it, and Barton did not mind it in the least. The fact batting her eyes was not taken as an invitation to take a few sips was also nice, he knew a few nasty tricks to use on Vampires the others did not.

"I thought I might find you all together, Barton is not with you hm." Katherine frowned slightly, she had half expected him to be half asleep with his new friends.

"Hilde put him to bed after the talking finally stopped, poor thing was dead on his feet." Duo did not bother to look up at the Lamian Lady behind him, he was no threat to her or her brother.

Katherine frowned slightly but let it go, Duo was protective of his friends and often made sarcastic remarks, he worried about her brother. "Oh he was a tough little Stray long before he saved my life on a rainy night. Hilde thank you for giving him a little push, he is most protective and never considers his own comforts."

Hilde looked down, Barton had saved her life, why, how? "He has been kind, something I was not expecting from his reputation."

"Ah, yes, that," Katherine chuckled knowingly, not surprised Hilde had taken a liking to her brother, she had kind eyes as well. "Duo already learned how you treat him determines how he treats you, the imp chose wisely."

"I'm good with people, besides I would prefer not to become his latest scratching post." Duo was curious if his training could hold the Made though not when his life might depend on it, betting wrong would be a mess.

"Well, I might as well head home, you kids have fun now, and thank you again for forcing him to admit he still has a human heart." Katherine bowed her head before walking off, she was hoping Quatre would be able to do more soon.

Hilde glanced at Quatre and bit her lip, with his family he had to be careful where she and Duo did not, not that she saw Duo offering up his neck anytime soon. Hiro was more his type, she was interested to see how that would play out. "He was fine Quatre."

"Hm? Oh, I know. I was thinking about his mother, there has to be some way to help her." Quatre wanted to help his friend, with her well Barton would have no reason to weaken himself like that again in the near future.

"Duo you are the Dark Arts master among us, any ideas?" Hilde knew some theories but her studies were closer to Quatre's, making the world a happier place had little to do with evil magics.

"Well there a few theories, not all wild ones either. The two main ones are similar, but hard to prove one way or the other. One goes that there was a flaw in the spell, which is why it effects Lamia and not Mades, different magic. Since recasting the spell without a lot of bigwigs saying yes and then watching you, annoying, is illegal it has not been fully tested." Duo was curious but he was no where near skilled enough to rework that spell, few were thankfully. "The second has to do with the merging of demons Lilith used in the first place, bitch. Anyway everyone knows Vamps have different forms and powers because they are a composite of several demonic entities rather then one like most mortal demon hybrids. Now this is working off the theory that the high functioning demons are the twisted remains of the cast out Angels, and so that's why holy things go ow. Now Lilith used blood from an Incubi and a Sucubi, twins, as two of her subjects. Their powers, looks, and intelligence were what she wanted. This is one of the reasons why Vamps tend to seduce their prey, that part of their nature feeds off lust, again theories and fact here. Now besides the humanoid demon form they also have a more beastie one, for lack of a better term. These are the result of the cannon fodder demons also used. Massive healing factor, blood fed regeneration, raw dark energy reserves, you get the idea. Most grunts and guards are these in human form, while something like Barton takes after the higher demon form, since he has a will."

"Isn't that the same as she messed up the spell? I mean you are saying a Lamia basically becomes one of these lesser demons right?" Hilde had teased Barton about demon tricks but she had never seriously considered he would use one, her family had some immunity at least.

"Nope, see the theory is the twins put a little cruse on Lilith when she drained them both instead of only taking a little, ballsy bitch that one. Either way Mades are immune since their creation uses the demonic essences in their Sire's blood, rather then having the spell pass the energy to them directly like the Lamia do when they are conceived." Duo could see that, demons were like ninja that way, you were safe until you crossed one or the contract was over. "There is also an old theory that Incubi and Sucubi are the same thing they just change gender as is necessary to seduce, feed, and breed, which I guess could explain why Vamps often have more… liberal pairings then the other races."

Quatre shook his head, both theories sounded logical enough to him, and he didn't really want to think about just what made up Barton's dark side. "Undoing a demonic cruse is no easy task, and recasting the spell is flat out forbidden."

"As it should be, making deals with dark powers never goes well, Vamps being the safest example." Hilde knew a few Vampires she could trust, completely, but they were not pure demons.

"Watch it Cat, or you may get a set of fangs stuck in you yet," Duo teased with a grin, not that he thought Barton would hurt him, much.

Quatre frowned at his friend, "Father would not think that was very funny Duo, I am not sure if Barton would."

"Oh you men are being creepy, Barton wouldn't snack on us with out asking, he has manners." Hilde had not answered Barton now that she thought of it, she had not expected what she had felt no. Too many stories maybe but she had expected more pain, or loss of will, neither had been the case.

Duo sighed before yawning, "Ya got me there Hil, friends are not food, just remind me to not get too close if he shows up starving. Night all, try to get along without me."

Hilde sighed once Duo was gone, he had looked tried too but boredom did that to him. She caught Quatre looking at her and fidgeted, "What?"

"If you like him you can admit it," Quatre answered, Hilde had been acting a little strange and he knew it had something to do with Barton.

"He is very charming but no he is all yours, I let him drink is all. You can't exactly offer since your Father would be none too pleased, somewhat understandably so. It barely hurt, and he healed the wounds. Are you upset?" Hilde did not want to hurt any of her friends, Quatre was so sweet.

"Not about that, Father would only allow it if he was hurt protecting me, otherwise he would assume the worst and take action. I do not know how I am to help him if my Father will take everything the wrong way." Quatre sighed in frustration, at least Barton had Hilde.

Hilde reached out and took Quatre's hands in hers, "I want you to compare the person in those rumors to the person you have come to know. You tell me helping him embrace his gentler side is not helping, I dare you."

Quatre closed his eyes, she had a very valid point, one Katherine would likely agree with. "And that is why he likes you."

"All like me silly thing, really, but I agree. Your Father was all right with the sisters being friends so, maybe, if he sees Barton has a nice side too…If he can accept you as friends he will be more open to an expanded relationship. Or at least he won't try and kill him after you confess your feelings." Hilde knew Lord Winner was a good man who cared about his children, as any good father should. If he was shown proof that Barton was no threat to his son he would be pacified, and perhaps his mind would open up a bit.

Quatre bit his lip but nodded, if the Bloom and Winner could form an alliance it would be best for all involved. "Thank you Hilde."

"No need, we are friends after all, I hate to see a friend suffer. Kitten's color was better, and with a little sleep he will be good as new. In fact you could probably go see him, seeing as he and Yui are basically the heads of security for the talks. I heard a few purists will be coming in today, I'm sure they will just love having Vamps in charge of their safety."

Quatre frowned thinking that over, "Only a fool challenges a ranked Knight of any order, let alone ones with the kind of reputations those two have. Father would hardly object to trying to see the two sides do not clash."

"Well Kitten making rank 2 out of 3 in less then a decade is insane, he'll be rank 3 in less then another 5 I'm sure. Everyone knows you are basically neutral so no one will ask questions, plus your families have a truce and a history." Hilde was all about helping people and helping her friends at the same time, everyone won in the end that mattered.

Nodding Quatre sighed, not looking forward to those who thought Witches and they alone should rule clashing with the other two races. An extremist would go after Barton seeing him as the most corrupted, since he had chosen to become tainted rather then simply being born that way. "Barton would be their preferred target seeing as he not only use to be human but was created to become an heir, not to mention his infamous savage temper."

Hilde nodded with a soft sigh, that could get rather messy, and those bastards would deserve every agonizing wound. "All the more reason for Daddy to let you keep him calm and blood free. Duo and I will do all the sneaky work, you fail at lying anyway."

Quatre frowned slightly but keeping Barton calm would be a good idea, even if it was within his rights as a Knight and Heir to kill such people. "Thank you for your efforts Hilde, I am sure he will be touched as well."

"I have no doubt, but for now we could all use a good night's rest. Duo and I will get our heads together before lunch, we'll leave the Knights in your capable hands." Hilde winked as she stood, between three Witches and two Knights all would be well.

Quatre nodded but allowed Hilde to leave without slowing her down with sentimental thanks. Folding his hands before his face he closed his eyes, once these talks were over he would be free to try and help Lady Bloom. Finding a cure for the Madness was a worthy endeavor, and one he very much wished to pursue. "Please let tomorrow go well."

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

Quatre looked over his shoulder as he followed the young guard, he could feel the darkness in this place. When the guard stopped he turned his attention back to her, she gestured at a set of closed doors. He frowned slightly at them, blinking when they opened, a black clad figure walking through them facing someone behind them. "Barton?" Quatre asked softly, blinking at the other's blink, the young looking man the Made had been focusing on stopping behind him. "Am I interrupting?"

Trowa blinked at the blonde for a moment before frowning, glaring at the other he sneered when they quickly fled the room. Turning his attention back to the blonde he smiled in greeting, bowing his head, hands folding behind his back. "Not at all, the fool's annoyance was minor and fear is enough of a reprimand really. Did you require something in particular?"

Quatre frowned slightly at the formal attitude but it was one he was use to dealing with. Nodding he decided it would be best to practice talking to Barton like this, "Yes actually. It has come to my attention some guests will be arriving today that have rather…extreme views on your kind."

A brow arched a bit at the blonde before eyes narrowed slightly for a moment, sighing softly he shook his head. "You foresee them becoming a problem?"

"Hilde brought it to my attention last night that you and Yui are unofficially the heads of security for this gathering. They may simply talk but if they do not…well you will be their target as well as their jailor."

Trowa nodded absently, he would have to find someway to thank Hilde in the near future. "This is true. If you would care to discus this further there are more comfortable rooms to do so in."

"My Lords if I may?" A young women prompted, pleased when both males turned their attentions to her quickly. "I will be happy to show Lord Winter to your study, and see to his comfort while you make sure that…man has left as he should."

Trowa frowned slightly but nodded, "That would be preferable Selka, if he lingers he will not regret his mistake for very much longer. Selka is one of my Sister's attendants you are safe in her care."

Selka shook her dreaded hair when Barton walked off, the blonde turning to her curious but relaxed. "Barton does not sire underlings, he does seem to acquire us though." The Egyptian women smiled knowingly, "Come, the rat has out lived his usefulness if he is slinking about."

"Who is he exactly?" Quatre asked falling in beside Selka as she walked purposefully, he could see why Barton got along with her.

"An informant, he is a petty thief who knows things about underground movements and the like. He claimed to have some information about the Madness, it has proven to be nothing new. If he is wise he has left and will not return without something more interesting to share. If he remains he will not enjoy his last moments of life, Barton is very good at what he does." The Egyptian women knew her young master's talents well, it was why she did not fear him.

Quatre had no doubt of Barton's skill in removing threats, personal or otherwise. Since he did not care to talk about Barton's fighting prowess he decided to change the subject. "Why does Barton not create underlings if he has no problem using them?"

Selka smiled slightly at the curious blonde, golden tear shaped earrings flashing in the sun. Most would be too afraid to just ask that, Bloom did not care for cowards or fools. "That is a very good question young Winner, most would not have the courage to simply ask it." At his blink she held up a dark hand to cut off his coming apology, gold rings on each finger shining. "He will take no offense at your open curiosity, I assure you. As a human he relied solely on his own skill and wit to survive, which he did admirably I might add. Roughly five years ago when he accepted my Mistress' offer he simply gained a few new skills but the trust issues remain. I was changed many years ago, and Lady Bloom was always most kind as is her daughter who I now server. When she came home soaked, paled, and wearing a duster that was not her own I was concerned. After she changed into a dry set of clothes she told me a story of a young man who had killed a group of hunters. When she had asked him why he simply answered because she needed his help and he disliked those kind of people. He did not gaped at her very torn open dress, or try anything beyond keeping her from getting any wetter. Lady Katherine sought out the young man and began forming a bond with him, like a stray he was wary but not dangerous or malicious. Once she had his trust she told him the full truth and offered him a place to belong, a true home. There was no hesitation on his part, the human world had done nothing but make him a trained fighter he owed it nothing. I meet him soon after, as one of his sister's personal servants there was no avoiding each other for long. Finally able to meet the young man I had heard so much about I was charmed by his honesty, Vampires are not known for that virtue unlike Witches. Lady Katherine was out with her father for a few hours so the poor thing had nothing to do, and no friends to do it with. Since I had been spoken highly of he warmed to me soon enough, sweet boy behind that frown. Over the few years he has been with us he has adopted a few more of his sister's sired but has sired no one himself. He does not care for certain aspects of his new nature, with his rank he needs not eternally bind another to him to get anything done. Someday he may change a mortal companion, but since he only began acquiring those this month I do not see that happening anytime soon."

Quatre frowned absently in thought as he listened to the mid twenties looking women as she spoke of her earliest memories of Barton, she was understandably found of him. At her ending comment he blinked, was he truly the first mortal Barton had gotten close to? The idea made him blush since that was very flattering, Barton had admitted when they met he had only been curious and not unhappy the rumors were true. Many claimed to find him interesting but other then Duo had had never believed any of them until Barton. "Father would die."

Selka chuckled heartily at the comment, not entirely a joke even if it was meant as one. "Oh I am sure he would. Barton was wise to seek you out child, as you were wise to not cower from the truth."

"The truth?" Quatre was not sure what she meant by that, Barton had never lied to him as far as he knew, joking aside if that even counted.

"You meet his stare, many fear an immortal's stare because of their powers, but you did not fear them or seeing the truth. It is easier to see all Vampires as dangerous and lacking impulse control, but you know better."

"I am empathic, it is hard for us to blindly write off people let alone an entire group." While Vampires were somewhat disposed to impulsive behavior they were not all amoral fiends, they were roughly half human.

"Pity there are not more of you. Bonding going well?" Trowa asked, arms crossed, head tilted to the side.

"Oh he is quite agreeable company milord, now that you have returned I shall see about some refreshments for our mortal guest." Selka smiled knowingly at the young heir before walking out of the room.

Trowa chuckled shaking his head. "That women never was one for orders. By all means sit down."

Quatre took the invitation, watching the Made glance at the large windows absently. "Do you have any plans for the radicals?"

"If they become an annoyance I will drain them dry of course." Trowa answered as he sat down on the edge of the desk rather then behind it. "Don't look so appalled Knights have the authority to use lethal force, and I am well known for...creative uses of that force."

Quatre frowned for a moment before sighing, "I am aware. So as long as they are only mildly annoying you will stand around and glare?"

"Pace more likely, but accurate enough yes. Annoying means trying to kill me if that makes you feel any better?" Trowa was not concerned about the lives of a few radicals, radicals of any races caused nothing but problems.

"I do not enjoy the though of people trying to kill you, but I know that is not what you meant. You do know Duo, Hilde, and I will help you any way we can, officially ranked Knights or not?" Quatre did not want to lose any of his friends, even if Barton was hard to kill he could still feel pain.

Trowa nodded absently, "As you mentioned Hiro and I are the unofficial heads of security."

"Official not official, you are very scary." Selka reminded her master as she set a tray down, handing Quatre a steaming cup with a smile. "Try not to scare the blonde with that frown of yours hm?"

Quatre chuckled at the rolling of dark eyes, sipping the tea he smiled, he was unsure why he had allowed stories to scare him before. Barton was dangerous, any Knight of rank 2 was, but not to him. "You look back to normal...is your blood?"

"It seems to, I think...once these talks are over I can worry about helping her. Weakening myself on an island full of potential threats will only result in my likely death and her insanity." Trowa sighed looking down at his folded hands, helpless and frustrated by the simple fact politics was keeping him from helping his family.

Quatre bit his lip for a moment before reaching out and taking the Made's hands in his own. Hands that had done horrible things and that would again, squeezing them gently the blonde tilted his head, "Please don't talk like that? We will help you Barton you just have to ask."

"Trowa," Trowa turned his gaze upward to meet the blonde's, "My first name is Trowa."

Quatre smiled, knowing exactly what being told that meant, "Thank you."

Trowa smiled at the beaming blonde, his whole face always lit up so adorably when he smiled, "As if it so hard to trust you."

"I will speak to Father about the radicals, he may not trust you as I do but he does want peace between all of us. I will also do what I can to speed this gathering along, please try and not resent my Father too much until then?" Quatre wanted to stroke the other's face but kept hold of his hands instead, Trowa seemed to be drawing some comfort form that.

"I'll do my best," Trowa promised leaning close, lips near a pale ear, "Mother wants to meet you, once she is stable perhaps she will."

Quatre held very still as Trowa leaned close, the Made's slow breathing ghosting against his ear differently then a mortal's did. Closing his eyes he listened to the other's words, blinking as Trowa pulled away. "Because she knew my father?"

Trowa shrugged, that was likely part of it, "She said you smelled soft and delicate, your scent was on my hands still." Frowning slightly at his held hands, "She also informed me I resembled your father, and that they had been close once."

Quatre watched the Made just stare at their hands as he talked almost to himself, frowning the blonde had to admit the hair did bare a passing resemblance as did Hilde's. "Once civil war is adverted I would very much enjoy meting your mother. I really should head back and get started on that...will you be all right?"

Trowa frowned slightly at the blonde, very few people asked if he was going to be all right when he was not bleeding badly. "I am fine, Hiro will likely have something to say about our guests."

Quatre nodded, Trowa was planing on focusing on work rather then brooding, which was better. If he could not help someone he would rather focus on helping those he could, "I'm sure he will. I will see you both tonight then." While he did not really want to leave he knew he could not stay there, civil war did need to be adverted.

Trowa nodded, work was a good distraction, "Hiro will be pleased to hear you all wish to help. Go do what you can, and remember until this over the cold shoulder isn't personal."

Quatre smiled, he liked the sound of that, "You are the better actor but I will do my best." Turning from the former human he walked up to the door, turning he caught dark eyes following him, "Don't worked too hard now."

Trowa smirked as the blonde walked out, turning when Selka returned sipping a glass of blood laced whine, "Yes?"

"I like him so do not look to me for chiding young one, that is why you have an older sister. Now let us get to work hm? The sooner this whole mess is behind us the sooner we will all be happier." Selka sipped her whine, dark eyes meeting rich green as the Made nodded, "Snacks?"

"Not thirsty, but thanks anyway." Trowa dismissed as he straightened, turning to the older Made he half smirked at her knowing grin, "Yes you can help us annoy the politicians."

As We Dance With The Devil Tonight5

And there is Chapter 5 for you all to enjoy. Chapter 6 will have a lot of politics and back story for those who are into that sort of thing. Fear not there will be more then just history and bigotry, that would be so damn dull to write. Remember I have a Twitter now if you want to talk to me, or yell at me for playing too much WoW, all in good fun though. Well off to more updates now.