TW: Not much to comment on. References to the last chapter in fleeting bits.
Salacious Smiles
September 10, 13,013
They were fed. Overly so.
Yet, they couldn't really blame the Demon.
His hunt had taken him about an hour out, where animals were plentiful and his panicked mind demanded he bring back as many as possible.
So, not only were they fit to burst, but they also felt like a baby bird.
Perhaps they needed to be treated as such if they were apt to maul themselves again.
For now, however, having a pile of moist critters vomited into their lap was not where they envisioned life taking them. Most of them appearing drunk on whatever filled his pocket-dimension stomach, strung out and incapable of fighting for their lives.
Like them…
Nope!
Fuck all that.
With only a mildly disgusted noise and a bit of D's help, they picked through the questionable creatures and left behind the mammals that were acceptable. And with a bit of cleaning up, they were… acceptable. Tasting a bit of darkness and rot before they could get to the blood.
And when they felt full, Erembour was there to nudge another into their hands. Continuing this eager action until they looked visibly ill and on the verge of vomiting up their meal.
Too bad their ability to convert blood wasn't faster.
Faster than it first was, yes. But not fast enough.
And so, there they sat. Stomach very much uncomfortable. Erembour giving his best puppy-eyes. D passing them clothes and a wad of cotton that he claimed would keep their undies free of blood.
"We're not in a saddle, but we feel like we're in a saddle."
He couldn't say much against that. It was a very thick bit of padding. But it was also the best he could do under the circumstances.
With a soft sigh, or a rather tempered groan of disgust, they pulled clothes over skin that bristled and jumped in irritation. Feeling too tight. Too rough. Sticky as it clung to their skin and pulled at their hair and made them want to rip their clothes to ribbons.
They'd been too long without clothes. And while blankets and D's coat had not bothered them, those were things that did not hug their body. Draping loosely about their frame. Just as much a comfort as D's cool yet warm hand as it passed across their rippling back.
But it was time to leave, and they honestly couldn't be more ready. Their fingers were itching to dig into dirt and grass. Lungs aching for that first gust of fresh air. Night air if they were being particular.
Before they could leave, however, there were things they needed to accomplish. People they needed to see. Things they needed to destroy.
With their fingers digging into their arm, they pushed through the warped door with the Hunter at their back. Staring at the tubes filled with failed children, gone and melted, fluid discolored, with a new understanding. A scowl pulling at their lips.
The Hunter had long since pulled any data he deemed necessary and killed any servers running in the base. So, there was no hesitation to stop them from driving their fist into the nearest computer with a hard drive.
Nor the next.
Or any of them that followed.
It didn't matter that the cases were made of titanium and reinforced glass.
They didn't care if the cases were made of legendary metals forged by the Gods and enchanted by mages of yore with level three Unbreaking.
Was breaking the chassis necessary? No.
But watching the cases crumple and shatter? It was cathartic.
Knowing the bastards would need to replace everything should they wish to rebuild and salvage what they could just filled them with a satisfaction that couldn't be put into words.
Watching monitors and tubes alike shatter, dappled and smeared with blood like strange art across the surfaces of all they touched, felt like a balm on their Souls.
And as their anger diminished with each piece of equipment ruined, so too did their energy. Leaving them to huff and puff over their work as D stood to one side and observed. Wondering if they were at all perturbed by the fact that they currently tread upon more deceased children.
Perhaps that had an obvious answer if one considered their actions.
Still, they said nothing to confirm or deny before storming past the trash with little more than a muttered, "Thanks."
Their next stop was the cloning ward. A place where most everything had already been scuttled. And the vehicle bay was in much the same shape. Arial and subterranean vehicles alike reduced to scrap. Any information that could've pointed them in the direction some of the bastards had fled long since erased from the logs.
It was a shame that they were back to square one considering none of the interrogated cur were willing to give up information. If they possessed any, and if they'd not already killed themselves.
They could only head North and find their family, or what remained of it.
Thus, empty handed save the tablet in the Hunter's bags and their jar of ashes, the group left the facility. Taking a moment to trash the elevator mechanisms once they were at the top.
Sure, they could have attempted to trigger another meltdown, but D… did not wish to disturb the crypt or the graves.
Yes, they were just bodies. Not even that anymore. Empty, degraded vessels no longer host to a Soul. But somewhere, someone might've cared. Certainly cared enough to inter them there in the first place.
They didn't deserve having their final resting place disturbed in such a way.
The sky was barely hinting at the twilight hours when the mausoleum doors parted before them, air chilled, almost borderline cold, from the waning night. Ground muddy from a recent bout of snowmelt with grasses lightly frosted.
It was nice. Even if they were a bit remorseful over the loss of their cloak.
"D?"
Head inclined towards them, the man hummed softly with his eyes closed. Taking a moment to enjoy the fresh air with them.
"Thanks, again… for everything."
Their gratitude went beyond being rescued.
It was for his protection.
His care.
His concern.
His words.
Everything that made him who he was, despite the cold nature he seemed to possess.
"Of course."
And whether or not he understood just how deep their appreciation ran for him, they were okay.
It was snowing. Something they'd not seen many times in their part of the desert.
They loved it.
Their eyes followed a particularly large flake, lips stretching into a too-wide grin. And quietly, they wished they had more time to enjoy the weather.
They didn't.
They needed to make up for lost time. Regain their strength and health. Once they had all of that back to acceptable standards, they would try to connect with their Grandfather. Something to attempt on their long trek back to the river town. A journey that shouldn't take more than a month.
Less time than it took for their companions to reach them.
It was understandable. The tracker had given them a general area, but they'd still needed to look for the entrance. Pinpoint an exact considering they'd been so far below ground, where the signal was patchy at best.
And in the grand scheme of things, a month and a half really wasn't so bad. It wasn't good, but it wasn't the worst. When all was said and done, they were out and they were… safe.
Besides, they'd have plenty of time to see and enjoy snow at the end of it all.
However, they did wonder why they'd been left behind when all was falling to shit in the first place.
The bleeding blessedly stopped within a day of leaving the facility.
It'd taken them a solid week of gorging, however, before they felt up to dream and project their selves to their grandfather. Fingers pinching and squeezing at flesh that did not exist. Heart pounding against their sternum.
Logically, there was no reason to be nervous. Yet they were. Staring at a man that looked utterly defeated and worn down. Taking no notice of their presence as they hovered uncertainly in the small hut.
The hut itself had not changed much from how they'd first seen it aside from the accumulation of dirt. The furs and rugs still piled in the corner. A lone tallow candle burning low and soft in a small clay dish. Shadows bending like beckoning fingers as they danced upon his gaunt visage.
It was… depressing. And they knew depressed. It was practically their only state of being at that point.
"You are back."
They startled and looked away from the diminishing flame.
"You are back, yet further away than you originally started." He cupped his face, fingers digging into the soft flesh of his eyes. "Forgive me, but I'm not in the mood for company."
Their heart sank, yet they gently pressed a hand to his knotted hair. Hoping they could give some modicum of comfort to the clearly distressed man.
"While I appreciate the sentiment, young one, I would like to be alone. Please leave."
They did.
The next night garnered the same results.
As did the next.
And the next.
Night after night.
Until the girls eventually learned to sit and leave the man be.
Misery was good company, but they'd prefer if they could console him even a bit like the Hunter did them each night.
October 02, 13,013
They could see it. The town nestled down by the water. Calm and quiet so late at night. Not a hair out of place. Well… aside from one thing.
"Where is Leonel's home?"
The spot where it once stood on the docks was empty, a bit of new wood and buoys creating a space that could possibly house a new home or business. For now, however, it was empty.
"I may or may not have compromised the structural integrity in my haste to reach the airship."
Their lips twisted and puckered, brows furrowed as they considered the possibilities. And ultimately, they pondered aloud, "Did you do it intentionally?"
"I suppose it is a matter of perspective."
They turned to him, hand to their chest and eyes wide, and drew in the most scandalized gasp they could manage. "D!" And as his eyes shined in the dim light of the moon, they almost felt like themselves before everything had gone to Hell. Even before he'd told them their love for him was unwise. Less mopey and sad-sacky.
It was nice.
But it was a moment not meant to last, it seemed, for the light and quiet atmosphere was broken by the most ungodly noise the girls had heard in many months.
The horse.
They wanted to check in with Leonel, but honestly, the beast currently braying to be damned demanded their attention. Damn thing had an extra sense dedicated entirely to detecting the Hunter. And it was endearing, even if it was obnoxious as it screeched and startled the local wildlife.
Was this how their companions felt about them?
There was no way they'd be tolerated this long otherwise.
Thoughts for another day.
The group's trek into town revealed a populace on edge, a sizable gathering of people surrounding the stables and demanding the beast be silenced amidst the cries of a stableman. Yet all seemed to quiet as the Hunter gingerly moved a woman aside.
For not the first time, the eyes of men and women alike filled with an emotion they couldn't (or wouldn't) parse out. Instead, the girls took a moment to revel in the fact that D didn't give the few women and men vying for his attention a glance.
On the other hand, it'd probably help them distance themselves if the man would take interest in someone instead of continuing to treat them so confusingly.
"Come."
With a start and embarrassed flush, they hurried towards the man as he disappeared around the corner of the stables, wondering when they'd ceased walking. Mildly ignorant to the dirty looks being cast their way. But they kind of wished they'd waited for the man to calm the horse before they came in.
As it was, the horse was wild-eyed. Head thrashing. Spit slinging. Not entirely dissimilar to how it'd acted over having no treats.
They regretted.
D looked positively fed up.
The stable hand looked absolutely, unequivocally haggard. Eye sockets sunken and bruised. But upon seeing the man in black, the most desperate and relieved expression covered any sign that he looked ready to filet the horse himself.
From the comments drifting in the stables and his state, it quickly became apparent the horse had been a menace more than just the once.
"Thank fuck!" he cried as he lurched upwards. Pausing to clear his throat and smooth back his suitably disheveled hair. Attempting to feign some sort of normalcy and suaveness before politely murmuring, "Glad you made it back in one piece, Sir. With the woman, as well."
Far be it from them to outright guffaw as he cast the horse a loathsome stare while D hushed the beast and settled his saddle upon its back.
It was sometime before the girls could compose themselves to ask the justifiably flustered person if they knew where Leonel was. Unsurprisingly, he was settled in one of the tavern's rooms. Continuing his work at the docks and orchard.
They weren't sure why they were so driven to find the man. Thinking he at least deserved to know that they were alive, but not certain that was the why. And with the horse in tow, suitably calmed and loaded down, they gave a bit of extra coin to the stable hand and headed towards the tavern in the now thankfully empty streets.
Inside the building was thankfully just as bereft of life. Too many people up and working to be occupying a spot longer than it took to drink their coffee or tea. So, without feeling too self-conscious, they skittered up to the woman behind the bar.
"Can I help you?" she asked.
"We think? Maybe?" Her brow quirked, and then they were nervous. Fingers digging into their arm. "We're looking for Leonel. Do you happen to know if he's in or not?"
"I do."
More silent staring.
"Could you… please tell us?"
"I could."
They felt their brow twitch and skin ripple unhappily. Mood quickly soured as they struggled to bite their tongue.
For a moment, they felt as they had when first meeting D. Easy to anger, words of ire burning their tongue like acid.
"Would you please tell us?"
"No."
"What crawled up your ass and died?"
Well… that was certainly a response. One Krista had been biting back. But when had Rhea ever cared for what should not be said?
They just wanted a straight answer from the beginning! A simple 'no' would have sufficed had they not been so… unnecessarily difficult. And their anger was only stirred by the smug grin that curled her lips. Yet, Krista forced a deep breath through their clenched teeth. Inclined to say her own biting comment.
D, outside with the horse for the moment, was not there to temper their rapidly increasing desire to deliver a tongue lashing that would have had her ancestors rolling in their graves. However, with a second calming breath that was more forced than it should have been, they apologized (with no small amount of bite to their words) and headed for the door.
The orchards did not provide them with much more insight. The fieldhands were jumpy and evasive. And if that weren't enough, the people through town weren't much better.
If it weren't obvious before that this was no place for them, it was made abundantly clear by the time lunch came around. Their once neutral reputation now…
No matter. So long as Leonel was not troubled by it and his association with them, all was well.
It was as they were contemplating a hunt, perched atop the grocer's, that they saw him. Slowly trudging down the docks in a pair of muddy waders that'd seen better days.
What were they supposed to say?
What were they supposed to do?
Why hadn't they thought of this beforehand?
Or perhaps some part of them had before they'd slung themselves off the slanted roof and slapped ungracefully into the ground?
It didn't matter much. Not when all thoughts seemed to flee for the hills once he heard their caterwauling and turned to see the cause. Hopeful eyes lighting up in gleeful recognition before his long legs were tearing across the ground.
"Krista Rhea! You are alive!"
They were. And through no fault of their own.
Still, the sentiment made them wish they could crawl into a hole and die.
No. Wait.
No.
Their face twisted as they cringed at their own thoughts before smoothing. Lips stretching in an awkward smile. "Yeah, we're alive. Wanted to let you know. Make sure you knew that it wasn't your fault. That we didn't blame you."
A tension seemed to leave him as they spoke. Perhaps not believing the Hunter's words, even more so as the few months passed. But even from their distance, the girls could see his shoulders relax the barest bit.
Perhaps he was not aware?
They'd understand if that were the case. They'd been tense since they'd left the mountain facility. An ever-present weight dragging them down in the form of a tiny jar.
Not the time to ponder on it.
Instead, before Leonel could respond to anything they'd said, they grabbed up his hand and softly asked, "Would you be up to redoing that cup of coffee?"
"Please!"
And Lords Above.
They could have gifted him the moon and not received a more brilliant smile.
Leonel's room was crammed full of everything from his home… somehow. Dishware, cutlery, bedding, pictures, books, work gear, and so on. Down to the comfortable wicker furniture.
Honestly, it was quite impressive to see it all shoved into the rented room.
After they crawled to the empty spot on the sofa, Leonel was quick to prepare their cups. Filling the slightly musty room with the smell of sweet mint and coffee.
Strangely, it was even better than it had been that night.
Perhaps it was the drugs.
But they liked to think that it was because he made it with care.
His new home would not occupy the same spot as the previous. It was being constructed closer to the orchard, large enough for any family he attained over the coming years. No sights set on any potential partners, but open now with the knowledge that he'd not caused their demise.
"I'd hoped you would come back," he admitted once their cups had run dry. And seeing the frown pull at their lips, he was quick to add, "I didn't expect you to say you'd stay. A man can hope for a second chance, but I just wanted to see you alive and well."
"We're really sorry, Leonel. We wish you were the one, but…" Strange how much they meant what they said. "Perhaps if there was more time."
A lie.
Their start with D had been rocky, yes. But something, instinctual or spiritual, had led them to the man. Had been pushed down by wariness and distrust. But when it was just left to them to act on a whim? They'd moved past that voice demanding distance too fast.
Cared too fast.
Perhaps loved too fast.
With Leonel, there was nothing.
No pull.
Just…
Brother.
Calm.
Settled.
At peace as the feeling swept over them, labeling him without any input (they would've settled for 'friend').
But they kept this to themselves as they listened to him move on from the subject, speaking on his parents. On the new fruit tree they were attempting to cultivate from the Frontier. Something that was juicy and tart.
For a bit, all was calm, and their shoulders felt a touch lighter.
They bid farewell to Leonel at the edge of town as night crept upon them. Promising to return should the chance arrive, but wholly unwilling to stay in town should the horse throw another walleyed fit. A very short visit. But… why stay?
The village was still a month out. Perhaps more. But they were ready to be on their way. Not wanting to waste any more time.
With their desires fulfilled, there was no more draw. Nothing keeping them in the waterside town. And while they were happy to have some sort of closure with the man, they were even more glad to be leaving it behind.
It was happening again. The feeling that D was attempting to gradually increase their emotional distance. It was a mere week later, amid their celebration of catching him, that they realized he was not as close as he had been.
It was a subtle change. But something that stood out like a sore thumb and was quick to put a damper on their mood.
It was something they should have expected. Something they should have remembered.
Instead, they'd forgotten.
It hurt.
Still, they smiled and attempted to pretend nothing was wrong.
They needed to remember. For his sake and theirs.
That night, as they slept in the trees, Krista and Rhea decided to pick their own branch. Sleeping fitfully, but determined to respect his… wishes?
Was it something he wished?
Damn… they just had to believe it was. Why would he make it a problem if it wasn't?
It'd been a year. Something they could not fathom.
Their birthday was just another day that they'd almost missed (would have, too, had D not said anything).
Were they nineteen? Or were they technically thirty? Did they go off their birth year or their physical age?
Bah, it didn't matter. They'd stick with nineteen.
But then… wasn't D only in his twenties?
Hurgh!
The man in question cast them a questioning glance.
They said nothing. However, their mind continued to swirl.
Considering it'd been a year, that technically meant D's day of birth had passed.
"Happy birthday, D."
"That is not today."
"Maybe not, but we've been with you a year. We've missed at least one. So, while we may never know your day, we'd still like to say it. Even just once."
A silence passed over them, soft and only slightly uncomfortable, before D tipped his head. Quietly murmuring, "Then, thank you."
What more could they ask for?
November 17, 13,013
That morning was particularly suffocating. Muggy. Hot. Humidity making their clothes cling uncomfortably to their skin and their breath heavy. Of course, outsiders would never know the man in black suffered the terrible climate. Would only notice the darker girl struggling to tame the mass of frizz atop her head as she proclaimed in a too-loud voice, "Whoever decided humidity was cool is a bloody idiot!"
It certainly garnered a few looks thrown their way. A few mutterings of 'damn travelers' and the like. All of which was ignored as the group headed into the town proper.
They were granted a small reprieve from the Sun attempting to fry them alive as it dipped behind the clouds. Soft, bubbly looking things that promised rain later in the day.
Honestly, it couldn't come fast enough.
But they attempted to distract themselves from their suffering. Breathing in the scent of freshly turned earth as the local farmers tilled their small plots of land. Cicadas screaming in the trees surrounding the town filling their ears. Children skittering about, squealing and laughing.
It was a nice place. A little lacking in trees for the area, but nice all the same.
Of course, there were things that would make it better.
There was no changing what'd happened.
However, some part of them couldn't help but wonder if things would have ended differently had they decided to stay with Leonel. Perhaps they could push past their… reservations. Perhaps all they needed was distance from the Hunter. Some time to focus on a possible partner that was not the man in black.
Time to convince themselves that he was unattainable.
He was, wasn't he?
Or maybe it was just the best option. Much like he'd said, it was unwise to want a settled life with someone who could not settle. But their Souls had already decided Leonel was a brother, so there wasn't much point in agonizing over it.
'We can still try to… distract ourselves.'
Could, but they were still no less reluctant.
And just when they'd told themselves they'd honor his desires.
They really were selfish. Because if they weren't thinking on their relationship with D, they were being dragged down by something else.
It'd been a little over two months.
The jar weighed heavy on their heart and minds. A small burden that weighed no more than two pounds. Yet, they carried it. Deeming no place suitable. No place a good place.
Logically, they knew their child was not there. That the ashes did not represent the child entirely.
It wasn't actually them. Just their dust. The true representation of them sat beneath the branches of their tree.
But, standing upon the mountain, surrounded by graves long abandoned and a facility of misery, they could not bring themselves to scatter the child's ashes.
So, they would carry their burden. As long as it took for them to find the right place. Perhaps not the perfect place, but one that was suitable. That they would be content to rest at should they meet their end.
The only thing aside that weighed upon their Soul?
They felt they should be more upset and distraught than they were. That they should be more than just... sad. Or a little upset.
It's not like they could have made peace with their loss just because they could carry a bit of the child with them at all times. Could they?
It was only when the bell above the tavern door loudly clanged that they realized where they were. And thank the Gods for fans.
Now, all that was missing was a nice bath (and no, their dip in the stream that morning did not count) filled with ice.
Or some good head pets.
Either way, what bliss. Anything to take their minds off all that troubled them. Although, they could do without all the heat related states.
Heat outside. Heat inside. Had it ever stopped? Or were they just too angry and depressed to notice?
Of course, it had to have stopped. It'd been a few months, two since they'd ceased bleeding. All in all, it was about in line with the time between the first two. But… Why had their last seemed so bloody rotten?
Their breath hissed past their bared teeth in a strained groan, minds awhirl with such thoughts and agitation, as they sank into the table D indicated. Watching his form as he traversed the room and disappeared about the corner. Undoubtedly to speak to the keeper. Possibly acquire a room? Definitely to pry out information on any odd-goings-on.
Whatever he was doing, they needed him to hurry. They were receiving some… odd stares. Looks that made them think the people weren't necessarily off put by their presence. In anything, they looked… interested.
Specifically, it was a man and a woman. Eyes shining with interest as they none-too-subtly observed them from across the tavern.
Did they have something on their face?
Was their cat showing?
They briefly searched their body. Found nothing.
Did they smell?
Nope.
Well…
They smelled, but not unpleasant if D was to be believed. Strictly related to their heat.
Was it something Humans could detect?
Fook.
The two momentarily exchanged words before looking back.
Fooook.
Slowly, the woman rose and looked towards their table. And with a curse, the girls hastily cast their eyes downwards. Frustrated with themselves. For their smell. Their staring.
Was it wrong of them to want nothing more than to flee? Or for D to hurry?
There was still time.
They could get up and beat feet out of the tavern!
Just as they were setting their glass down and pushing back, the woman stood at the head of the table. Hands demurely clasped at her front. Brown eyes glistening like wild honey under the lights as she smiled sweetly.
"Hello," she started softly. "I'm Christina." Over her exposed shoulder, she gestured at the man who watched from afar. "That is my partner, Dimitri."
They looked back to the man, nodding gently in return to his own little nod. And in turn to Christina, they did as they had with Leonel, gingerly gesturing at themselves with a muttered, "Krista Rhea."
Christina smiled so very sweetly in response. Eyes crinkling just the slightest bit about the edges as her plump cheeks flushed lightly. "It's nice to meet you."
The girls gently inclined their head before asking, "Is there something you need?"
Now, her dark cheeks reddened with embarrassment, and her fingers twisted themselves into the long ringlets cascading over her shoulders. "Well, it's not a need. But it is a few questions."
Why was she so nervous? Were they that freaky looking?
"May I sit a moment?"
"Sure!"
And down Christina sat. No conversation immediately followed, however, as she gathered her words. Maybe courage. Perhaps sanity. And the girls were content to let her. Eventually, she spoke, and they weren't sure what they expected, but it certainly was not, "Forgive me for being so forward, but are you currently engaged with anyone?"
It was a silly question.
"We are," they said, gesturing between themselves and her.
A blank face.
A quick twitch of the eyes, as if she considered looking to the man for advice.
"Or… do you not mean engaged in conversation?"
"Yes!"
Oh…
Maybe it wasn't such a silly question.
Was it too late to run?
"I mean, are you seeing anyone?"
They were. Lots of people. Her. The man. The other patrons.
"No, are you… going… out?"
Why in tarnation was this girl asking such things?! Were they being stupid?!
Seeing their confusion increase exponentially, Christina decided it was best to ask in the most straightforward way possible without being lewd. "Are you… married?"
Oh…
Oh.
They were stupid.
"Fudge. Sorry. No, w… I'm not."
"Okay!"
Well, at least she was perking back up.
"Question two! Do you prefer males or females, or both, or neither?"
What was the point of these questions?
"Anyone, so long as they aren't ugly."
"Ugly?"
Why'd she look offended?!
"Y'know, mean?"
"Oh!"
Idly, they dug their fingers into the flesh of their arm. Heart beating entirely too fast. However, they were certain that they were failing the interview. An interview for what? They didn't know, but they were sure they were failing.
"Final question!"
Okay! They could do this. They would not be dumb!
"Are you opposed to being with two people at once?"
They had it!
It was the easiest thing they could answer! No way for them to answer incorrectly given that they traveled with multiple people on the daily! So, with a toothy grin, they could confidently say, "Nope! But you know I'm not Human, right?"
"Yes, we know," she replied. "But we've never minded so long as the person wasn't 'ugly'. Plus, we thought you might be a good match."
Perhaps they did pass? They weren't sure how, but… it certainly seemed that Christina was pleased.
"Would you be interested in playing with us?"
Oh…
Something cold settled in their belly at the question, and they weren't sure why. Nerves? Fear? It would be nice to be in the company of someone who was not obligated, however, they couldn't help the apprehension they felt in their bones. The sheer terror that they might wind up in a situation similar to Bella's. Or Leonel's.
And that was the why. But if it wasn't the same, it would be good to hopefully move their thoughts away from D.
They could just tell the Hunter who they'd be with!
"Oh, hello, sir!"
Their eyes snapped up to D, the man quietly greeting Christina as he slid into the chair at their side. Legs crossed at the knees as he turned to return their gaze. A silent question in those dark eyes.
They nodded. A subtle movement that looked more like a twitch. But… despite their anxieties and reservations, they were okay. They wanted to believe that not everything in the world needed to be feared. That there were more people like Leonel and those people in the Valley. Selfless people without a speck of ugly in their hearts.
"Would you mind if we steal your friend for a bit?" she asked the Hunter.
Did he?
No, he supposed not. At least, not that he was liable to admit. But he wanted them to explore relationships outside of himself, his hand, and the Demon. It would be healthy for them. Give more substance to their theory on their reactions to others.
"Be my guest."
"Thank you!" And then she was standing, hand outstretched towards Krista Rhea. Not an expectant gesture, simply a kindly offering. One that the girls gingerly took as they rose from their seat. "How about we eat before we do anything? Are you hungry?"
"That'd be… nice."
It was. The food sat a bit heavy in their belly, but they didn't feel a need to regurgitate it all over the table once they were done. And they'd done surprisingly well to not think on D or their lost child for the entirety of their meal, invested in the conversation with Dimitri and Christina.
Dimitri owned a local shop, selling and repairing any books that came his way while Christina ran a bakery in the back. It was something that interested them, as they'd never had the privilege of visiting the bookstore in Puregon.
Their highly-monitored trips to the library had also been lackluster.
Because knowledge was a no-no.
'But we aren't there anymore.'
Right. They were more than free to learn all the things!
Honestly, the girls were more excited to explore the selection of books than they were to play with their new friends. Yet, they were enjoying talking with the couple. They weren't entirely sure why Christina wanted to know so many things about them, but it didn't seem to matter too much.
By the time the group was leaving the tavern, it was indeed misting upon the town, air cooling substantially as the dark skies whipped the wind to and fro. Thunder softly rolling.
It was pleasant. A perfect day to play or stay inside to read.
Their shop was just a few streets away, nestled amongst a few others that were painted in bright yellows and reds. Their two-story building was adorned in a vibrant blue with accents of red, Devour scrawled across the front windows with painted books and pastries.
It was simple, but pleasant.
"It's so cute! And colorful!" they managed to gush as they were gently ushered in. "Who painted the pastries and stuff?"
"I did!" proudly proclaimed Dimitri, eyes twinkling like freshly polished hematite. "I paint in my free time: murals, portraits, and the like!"
Inside, the shop was even more lovely. A myriad of colors and smells that immediately had them reeling and wiggling with excitement.
Maybe they would buy a book or two before they left. Something they could read with D...
Nope!
No thinking on D allowed!
"Krista Rhea?"
Well, at least they were kind enough to provide a distraction from their thoughts. They hummed out a short acknowledgement before turning to the lean man, watching as he secured the door with a soft click and mutter that it was their off day.
"You're not Human, you said?"
"Right," they affirmed. "How come?"
"Is it rude of me to ask what your race is?"
"Ha." Was it rude? They supposed not. Although, they did wonder why their race continued to come into discussion. "Well... no. But... don't really have a label."
They turned to browse the books, taking a moment to think. Eyes away from the couple standing at either side. Fingers running over the smooth bindings. "D's half-Noble, so would Dhampir work? Even if the half-Human part doesn't apply?"
"If you feel that is sufficient for describing you, then it's fine."
But they were... genetic disasters. Shifter and Vampire and a mishmash of stupid engineering with a dash of whatever Mother governed. And they were quickly realizing just how much it sucked that they weren't afforded a proper label.
"We only ask to get an idea on what you might like. What we can offer you," Christina assuaged as she ran a slender hand down their back. Fingers gently toying with the curls at the base of their neck.
It certainly felt nice, comforting.
"So, do you enjoy bloodplay?"
Shocked and confused, they inhaled their mouthful of spit. Sputtering and hacking and wondering what the hell bloodplay could mean.
A chill crept along D's spine as he stood in the dry goods shop, hand faltering in its movement to deposit payment for their supplies as he contemplated turning on his heel. Yet, it wasn't with the same urgency that he'd felt the other times. Moments when they'd been in danger.
No. This was something that was... simply unwanted.
But they needed to grow. Learn. Experience things without him. Things they would not get with him.
"Could be you, if you didn't have a stick stuck up your ass," the countenanced carbuncle muttered in that gravelly voice of his as they exited the shop.
Yes. It could be him. But it wasn't bloody likely.
What was? Them finding that there were more suitable mates out there. Ones that would give them a warm home with as many little ones as they desired. A safe, relaxed life.
And so long as he hunted, there would never be such security.
So, why in God's name were they so determined to have him?!
"Y'know what they say. Birds of a feather and such."
But it just didn't make sense.
"First friendly stranger?"
He'd hunted them. Almost killed them. That didn't seem terribly friendly, nor did it seem they liked him in the beginning, but had wanted to.
"Your good looks?"
That was the exact opposite of how they were.
If he were honest, however, he wasn't sure why he was concerned at all. In his Soul, the Demon seemed to shift and sigh, amused but silent.
How did they get to this point?
They were on the upper floor, standing in the room that served as the couple's living quarters, feeling lost.
Disgusted.
Confused.
Starting to wonder if their idea of 'playing' was different from Christina's and Dimitri's.
Their two book choices sat forgotten on the end table as Krista and Rhea watched the couple kiss. Heat rising to their cheeks as they stared in baffled horror. Thinking this was something they shouldn't be watching.
It was… too personal.
Sweet in their languid movements as articles of clothes pooled on the floor.
"Krista Rhea?"
They startled at Dimitri's soft voice, vaguely aware that they'd moved marginally towards the exit as they caught his gaze. "Sorry. Realized something. Got lost in thought."
"It's alright if you're uncomfortable." His buzzed head tipped minutely to one side, brows pinched in concern. "We wouldn't push you to do anything you don't want."
Reassuring.
"Can w- I… make a confession?"
"Of course."
Uncomfortable, as the couple separated and turned to stare at them. Patient and kind and understanding.
"Our ideas of 'playing' aren't the same. Don't think so, at least."
Realization dawned on their faces. Shame. Embarrassment as they both muttered a soft, "Oops."
Nevertheless, they continued speaking. "Which probably shoulda been obvious considering how many misunderstandings we had to begin with…"
Christina could only nod in agreement, looking thoroughly ashamed.
"But that doesn't mean… um…" How could they put their want into words? "There is a want to learn. But… I have no idea what is going on."
"So, you've never been with a woman? Or a man?"
Their brow furrowed more, minds drifting back to their short time with Bella. To the same question she asked and Krista had answered incorrectly. Were they asking in the same context?
"No?"
The couple shared another look between themselves. Nodding before Dimitri stated, "We can teach you. Be your first. But you're free to leave at any time."
"Okay."
He held out his hand, a ginger offering.
"Okay."
They felt more like they were telling themselves everything was okay. As if the panic prodding at their flighty heart and antsy limbs was not truly a thing as they urged their body closer.
Terrified they'd land themselves in another shitty situation.
Yet, their hands were gentle and mindful. Coaxing their chin up before a pair of lips found their cheek and trailed along their jaw. Another set of hands were dragging across their scalp and back. Light and teasing.
It was… okay.
Slowly, they were coaxed towards the couple's bed. A large thing with positively lovely sheets that were cool to the touch. Something they were quick to notice as they were sat upon the edge with their legs spread.
At some point, Christina kneeled at their back and curled around one side. Watching as Dimitri moved closer.
His hands were massive, engulfing their hips in his grasp as he pressed between their thighs. It was a position they weren't unopposed to. All the times they'd spread their legs to sit astride the Hunter's hips had not bothered them. Not one little bit.
They practically hated it in that moment.
So, why should it be different?
The man was nice. Respectful as far as they could discern. Yet…
Why did they despise it so?
The woman at their side was the same. Sweet. Bubbly.
Yet…
It wasn't their appearances. They were both beautiful in their own ways.
It wasn't their attitudes. Their nudging and pushing was nothing that bothered them. It was more reminiscent of a parent gently coaxing than it was an acquaintance forcefully coercing. As if they needed a bit of encouragement to take that leap.
And they wanted it! Wanted to learn and experience things, things that might properly feed and douse the fire rousing in their bones. Fire crying out for companionship.
But… it was more like it was being fed green wood when it wanted dry. Oil when it needed water.
They wanted this! So why did they feel so dirty?!
Their stomach suddenly rolled, their lunch with the couple threatening its return, forcing them to scramble away with a pitiful, moaned apology. Skin clammy as they rushed for what looked like the bathroom.
It was, thankfully. And in the dark of the room, head against the slightly cooler tile, the girls wept. Angry that, no matter what, they were drawn to an unreachable man.
Upset that they couldn't… just detach. That intenting to not love and want him always failed.
"Fubbernucker…"
Slowly, they pulled themselves up to the sink and took a few tiny sips. Just enough to clear any bile that'd managed to burn the back of their throat. They didn't want to stay in the bathroom any longer than necessary.
In the end, nothing seemed to matter. Not their wants. Hopes.
Nothing.
Their fleeting look into the mirror to make sure they were presentable had them rushing for the toilet in an instant.