Arrival of the Ghazi Clan

Ghazi Clan Arrives at Black Lion Castle

Previous Posts: 2006, Feb 29

Ghazi Clan:
Malik and his entourage picked up their pace as their horses closed on the Sleeping Dragon Hill. There were twenty-one in the their muster in all, with Malik and Samad leading the company. The gate at the vanguard of the hill was spared, and so they advanced upward along the road which wound between the gullies and walls until they met the courtyard's portcullis and massive, wood and steel banded gate. Malik's eyes searched the high rampart's catwalk and gate-towers above for any signs of life, and when at last Belorian came into view, he called up to him. "Spare the gates! The Ghazi clan has come as requested and agreed upon by Prince Garceaux, to lend our support and arms to the Black Lion Clan as guards and warriors!" Belorian was hesitant to let them in, but aware of the pact Lavoy had made with the Ghazi vampires, he called down to them in respose. "Give me a moment to spare the gates!" The angel vanished from the catwalk as he made him way below to the gate crank, where he was met by Faust. While Belorian raised the portcullis, Faust slid back the heavy bars securing the gate, the two of them together pulling the heavy doors ajar. To Belorian...it felt like letting a titan in...Yes, there was only twenty-one of them, and a number of blood slaves as well in a wagon that had not been counted by him, but their twenty-one plus (the blood slaves should never be underestimated) far outnumbered the Black Lion Clan's tally. That was the point of course...to build a company that could take on aggressors, but if the Ghazi clan turned out to BE the aggressors...then the clan would be in for some very hard times. The entire clan had been informed of the arrangement, some months ago when the pact had been made. The best they could do, was hope Malik and his lot were honorable in their intentions. As the company rode into the courtyard, Belorian reached out telepathically to Lavoy to inform him the Ghazi clan had arrived, with half their numbers and a group of blood slaves as agreed. Among those slaves were three angels...Amhenru, Avard, and Joshua. Belorian groaned as he recognized them as the wagon which conveyed them passed. The irony...That three Mernaph had held, should wind up here now. How Joshua had made it back...Belorian could not imagine, nor would he venture a guess. There were many possibilities. The other slaves included mortals that had been sired as slaves, two young, dark elves, one of them acquired by a scout on the way, who had ridden south to the lake seeking quarry, one young shadowlands elf, and three Namas humans. Malik chose his slaves well it appeared, and they all looked healthy, although the angel could not speak for their emotional states. He would find they were in good spirits nevertheless, for Malik had a method of enslaving which insured the loyalty and well being of his slaves. They never even knew they were forced as a matter of fact, every last one believing it had been their own choice. Malik was slick that way, and in many other ways that made it very hard to trust him. He was exceptionally intelligent and clever, his genius subtle and influential. "Your horses shall have to be sheltered in the barn, paddocks, and pastures in the meadow below," he informed them. Only a small number of horses were kept in the courtyard's stables and paddocks...Those which the clan favored and rode most frequently. "Keep the stallions in the paddock so they do not breed with Prince Garceaux's animals," he further instructed them. Malik dispatched five men and women to see to the horses...Joshua among them, who had a way with horses and animals. Belorian, Faust, Kael, and the twins, had built the barn and the paddocks which would shelter the Ghazi Clan's horses. Guarding the animals was up to them. Malik had already made plans for that as well, but had not expected their horses to be provided for as they were. He was very pleased by this unanticipated surprise. The vampire dismounted from his own black steed, and approached Belorian and Faust to lead the animal with him. "This animal must stay above with me," he stated absolutely. Belorian smiled faintly and glanced at Faust, who nodded his head to permit it. There were a few extra stalls available in the stables, and a small paddock the spirited stallion could be kept in. Lavoy might want Malik's impressive steed to cover some of his mares. The animal was exquisite. Hence Belorian would begin the task of telling Malik where his men, women, and slaves, were to bunk, as he and Lavoy had decided together, for optimum security.
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Lavoy:
Well, Lavoy had been wading through deep waters, but suddenly was in over his head. When Avery broke the floodgates and admitted to him WHY he was so upset, and exactly what had been tearing at him, he had no idea what to do. Avery was feeling his very soul and heart torn apart from the twins dominating him, but at the same time, the twins needed him to survive. If what they needed was not killing one, it was the other. How did one choose between their lover and their children? It was an odd time, but Artorius' words echoed in Lavoy's head. "..that I could corrupt you enough to make you love the devil as a father..." A stricken look fell over Lavoy, and he was deathly silent and still for a moment. Fuck...FUCK. Was he doing the same thing to Avery? Jesus Christ... Rolling to the side of the angel, Lavoy raked a hand through his mass of blonde curls. Perhaps he had been strong enough to withstand the corruption, but maybe Avery was not. "Avery....why...why didn't you tell me?" His voice was unsteady, then he reached over to pull the angel into his arms and nuzzle his face into his hair, closing his eyes. "We will figure something out with the twins, okay? I will sit down with them and talk to them... I will forbid them to feed from you and see how that goes, okay? I won't have this destroy you..." His words fizzled off into a pained whisper.

It was then that the second issue was spilled out, and it made Lavoy wince. Apparently he was going for a record on how fast he could break down such a pure soul. And now another tough decision. He had promised Bastion to finally spend some time with him. He felt horrible. A thrall that was almost completely ignored by his sire. Sighing, Lavoy shook his head. "Avery, you ARE all I need. I did not go to Bastion because I need him... he is my thrall and is bound to me. He suffers without me. He does not love me as you do, but only as a thrall loves a master. There is nothing more to it than that. Bastion is a dear friend that I have had for a long time. I love no one as I love you..." Wrapping him more tightly in his grip, he gave a ragged sigh. "Avery, I wish there was a way to completely take away every bit of your pain, and I will NOT kill you. Do not speak like that again. And I promise you, I SWEAR to you, I will try. I will force the twins to stop so that you might heal. I will work with Bastion to see what can be done. I will try, that is all I can promise you. I WILL try." Rolling him to his back, Lavoy kissed him deeply, caressing his cheeks with his fingertips. The night would dissolve into desperate, tender lovemaking, the two of them alone, which they rarely had. Lavoy was not looking forward to sitting down with his sons, but knew it would have to be done.
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Lavoy:
Now, the next evening, Lavoy was naked in bed with Avery, feeding him blueberries. The angel had calmed since the night before, but Lavoy knew that he was not healed. That would take time and work, on both their parts. It was then that Belorian called out for him, announcing that Malik had arrived. Groaning, Lavoy rolled over onto his back. "Malik's clan has arrived. I was so caught up, I forgot. I am afraid it is time to go home, my love." Leaning in, Lavoy necked him passionately for a moment, then climbed from bed to tug on his pants. Helping Avery dress, he then hauled him up into his arms to bear him through the shadows and back into their chambers. Briard and Desmond were nowhere to be seen. Tucking him into bed, Lavoy kissed him deeply. "I love you. Rest here while I take care of business, okay?"
Once he departed from Avery, Lavoy, shirtless, barefoot, and not realizing it, headed down the stairs to the courtyard, where there was a mess of Malik's clan, his, and horses. Spotting Malik, he grinned warmly and walked over, extending his hand as greeting, then would turn to do the same to Samad. "Welcome back. I apologize that I was not here promptly to greet you. I was....elsewhere." He offered lamely, then turned to watch Malik's horse be led to the stables. "He is impressive. Where in the world did you find him?" The two would discuss pleasantries as the horses were packed away and supplies were carried inside and to the rooms that the clan would bunk in.

Lavoy would invite all of them to the dining hall, which was empty, aside from Fiona. The poor girl had done nothing but remain quiet and in her room since yesterday, but she had finally come out to eat something, and was working a fork through a bowl of peach slices. When she saw the number of men file in, her deep green eyes widened and she leapt up, grabbing her bowl to move from the table. Lavoy went to speak with her, and convinced her to assist. Moments later, the clan was seated and Fiona was taking drink orders. She welcomed the task, as it kept her mind off of things.
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Briard:
What terrified Briard most of all, were the 'what ifs'. What if Avery could never 'learn' to accept his sons' love for what it was? What if he would never be happy unless he was all Lavoy truly needed? What if he could never be like they were, never share himself and be content with that? What if their love was destroying him? His happiness never seemed quite genuine...It was like, he resigned himself to the way things were and tried to act happy for their benefit. Was that what he did? What he had been doing all along? Having sons had always been a struggle for him, but because he was so good, because his goodness was so pure, he had always made his best efforts to embrace it...But what if no matter how he tried, he could not accept them...accept their love, accept their hunger, accept Lavoy AS he was? Was that not part of loving someone truly? Accepting them the way they were? Briard frowned and then cleared his mind to fork his mental voice out to inform the clan that Lavoy had left the castle for a few days to spend some time alone with Avery, hence he climbed out of the bed and took himself and his thoughts for a long walk around the castle and courtyard. He explored the corridors, the towers, roofs and turrets, and then he went down to the dungeon. His strides carried him through many corridors and winding stairwells, to the cell block where Falcus was being held. He stood staring at the meridian templar for a long time, until the eyes which had been vieled flickered open to star at Briard through mocha colored retinas. "You are all killing him, you know," his voice mirroring how feeble he was. Briard's nostrils flared but he said nothing as his gaze simply burned on him. "I suppose next he shall be enslaved, to cover up his will and heart so he can survive your abominate hunger. Why anyone would wish to be loved by the shell of someone, is beyond me. To mock the truth with such a lie? To be loved by nothing?" the last a dulcet whisper. Briard's voice finally lifted, in unnaturally coarse and husky intones. "You should talk...You who overpowered his will to influence him falsely against himself. To lure him into your trap." Falcus shook his head, chains rattling as he did. "To save him..." Briard struck the bars of the cell violently. "To hand him over to the Alamascan to be murdered!" Once again Falcus shook his head, and then laid his eyes heavily on Briard. "Avery is one of the few chosen...to be spared. His heart is still true and pure...but if he is corrupted, he shall be hunted like the rest." Briard scowled at the man. He trusted nothing he said, albeit he could detect no lies in the man, and he was probing him deeply...His aura...his mind, his soul. "Spared for what? They spare no one," he hissed. "To become a visionary guardian over the earth. To maintain balance between the immortals by guiding the arms of wrath. He deserves a chance to be something other than what he has become. His virtue was exalted in heaven, and could be exalted on earth...but instead, he has become a blood whore for his sons and lover's bed." Briard pressed his face against the bars to lance the high templar with his blue-green eyes. "Whatever the Alamascan told you, they lied. No Tarseran is to be spared. Avery chose his path...and by doing so, his destiny was chosen. He is no slave. His heart is free to choose his way." Falcus laughed. "Is it?" With a snarl Briard shoved himself off the bars and wheeled to stalk away in tempest strides. He was furious that the man's influence was so substantial. Had he allowed him to, he would have gotten to him. Falcus was right about one thing...to enslave their father was to make a lie of his heart. He had to choose who he loved and fed freely.

When he reached the main corridor, he slammed into Desmond as he came around a corner, Briard throwing his arms up as his brother startled him. Desmond was still drunk on Belorian, who he had just returned from carrying into a catatonic state. Belorian was presently on the bed, with his arms and ankles still tied to the bed posts. Yes, Desmond had taken many liberties with him. As his arms flew out, Desmond threw his own arms around his brother to embrace him, lifting him off his feet in a bear hug. When he set him down, he could see clearly that Briard was very unhappy.
"What's wrong?" he cooed, gingerly touching his face and then his throat.
"It's birth father...Father told me some things he said were not true...but they are. We are hurting him, Desmond. I don't want to hurt him anymore..." Desmond's lips pursed and he canted his head over to listen to the rest as Briard explained everything to him.
"We really should enslave him...It would not make a lie of his heart, it would..."
"NO!!" Briard roared before he could even finish the sentence. Desmond scoffed.
"The templar got to you, didn't he?"
"He is right about that. Just because he is an ass, does not mean he cannot be right about some things. The rest is untrue, but he was right about enslaving him. We can't..."
"So what do you suggest we do, Briard? Starve to death?"
Briard shook his head. "We could feed on Belorian... and Bastion, and even find our own companions, Desmond. We don't have to starve, and we don't have to hurt him."
Desmond stared at his brother. "He is being selfish you know. If he loves Lavoy as much as he claims, he will accept what he sees as flaws. Maybe you don't need birth father anymore, but I do. I love him, Briard...as much as he loves father, and it hurts me that he thinks we are just using him. Surely he must, to feel so hurt."
Briard sighed deeply as his brother's words echoed some of the thoughts he'd had himself earlier. "If you love him, you will let him go, Dez."
His brother shrugged. "That is your opinion," he stated flippantly, and parted ways with with his soft hearted brother. Fact was, he was addicted to Avery...not anyone else, just Avery, and like most junkies, he would find a thousand reasons not to give up his habit.
Briard watched him walk away. He would talk to Lavoy when he returned, the first chance he got, and tell him everything. Perhaps Lavoy could convince Desmond not to hold his own needs above Avery's...if not? Briard feared what would become of his birth father.
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Avery:
Avery inhaled a deep breath and exhaled it in shatters as Lavoy asked him why he never told him all this before. "I did not wish to hurt you...or burden you.." When he spoke of his resolution for the circumstances with Desmond and Briard he nodded. "Thank you, Lavoy," his gratitude heart felt and ingrained with relief. He fell quiet as he spoke of Bastion. Resign...it was Avery's most frequent bedfellow. What else could he do but resign himself to the fact that Lavoy had prior obligations he was too honorable to neglect? A quiet nod bobbed his head and the auburn ringlets of hair which spilled past the small of his back, as Lavoy explained about Bastion. "I understand." And he did, problem was, understanding it did not ease the terrible jealousy in his heart. The desperate need to be enough for him. While Briard and Falcus were debating how wrong it would be to enslave him, he was thinking the opposite... that he should be enslaved to regulate the pain which threatened to unbalance him from day to day. Noone could take someone's pain away completely... Avery hardly expected that... but what he felt was so cruelly powerful, that it was more than just a passing phase, and was not something he could control the devastating crush of. "I hate the way that I am, Lavoy. I have always wanted to accept you as you are... I have always wanted to feel content no matter what we went through together. At first I could... perhaps because everything was so new, and I was so blinded by it all... but the more my love for you grew... the harder it got. I hate this part of me...Could I dig it out of myself, I would. You could... make it go away, my love... Cover it with your will and command my heart not to dwell on what I cannot change. Enslave me..." That last whispered with a rife passion. Instead of answering him, Lavoy embraced him with a fierce kiss to undress him. Avery was soon divesting Lavoy of his clothing as well, and whatever had been left unsaid was engulfed in the deluge of passions, pleasure, and exquistely bliss-riddled pain which followed. Avery came completely uncaged with Lavoy, in those hours they spent unraveling one another carnally. He woke groggily when Lavoy shook him awake to inform him it was time to go home. His heart sank...Their time alone was always so short. He dreaded going back to the twins... seeing the hurt he caused them. He got up and got dressed without any complaints regardless, and kissed Lavoy fiercely when they arrived in the bed chamber they shared. He watched him leave and then took a shower, before laying himself back down on the bed, still exhausted with blood loss and the physical exertion of their treasured interlude alone. Whatever Falcus and the Alamascan planned for him...he was not interested. He was where he belonged, no matter how painful it was at times. That was not their fault... The fault lie in his own treacherously selfish heart.
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Lavoy:
Soon after the clan had settle down for drinks and their first conversation together since they had arrived at Camelot, their blood slaves returned from dealing with the horses and settled in at the table as well. Fiona was delivering the last full glasses to a few of the clan members, none of whom she made eye contact with. It was bad enough that the entire castle was full of males, Galaxy now spending her pregnancy at the cabin with Maelmorda, but now they had tripled. And right now, her opinion on men was tangled. Once the angels and elves settled in, Fiona went to them to quietly ask if they would like some food. They seemed eager at this offer, and she turned to disappear into the kitchen.
It was then that Lavoy glanced up from laughing at something Samad had said to see Desmond storm past the door. And chances were, he would go to Avery to douse what he was angry about. Rising immediately. Lavoy gave a cordial smile to the table. Fiona pushed from the kitchen, bowls of fruit and cream balanced in her arms. It was then that Lavoy spoke up. "Excuse me, gentlemen. Fiona here will entertain you for a few moments. I have to speak briefly with my son." He turned and headed out to catch up with Desmond. Fiona was frozen in the middle of the floor, arms full of bowls, staring at the table of men in stunned silence. Entertain? Swallowing dryly, she moved to pass the bowls to those who wished them, then, not wanting to look like a silly girl, moved to sit in Lavoy's seat. Giving a small smile to Malik, she glanced across the table. "So....how was your trip? Hopefully it was kind to you..." Okay, so she was trying.

Lavoy caught up with Desmond and his hand shot out to grab his arm, halting him in his tracks. Pulling him back towards him, the first thing he did was wrap his son into his arms, kissing the top of his brow. "Hello Desmond. Stop in your rampaging to speak with me for a moment." Once he had his son's attention, he gave him a grim look and brushed his curls out of his face so that he could cup his cheeks in his hands. "From this moment on, you are forbidden to feed from your birthfather in any manner. He needs healing time. I will not budge on this, and you WILL obey this order. The same goes for Briard. Do you understand me? If I find out that you do, I will punish you. I do not want to do so, but I will if I have to. This is for Avery's health, Desmond. He is ill because of all of this. You can still come to me, or go to Bastion and Bel... just not him. Understand?"
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Desmond:
Desmond's arm and foot swung out and back together as Lavoy halted his strides. He eyed his father almost suspiciously as he wrapped him up in his arms and kissed him before asking if he might stand still long enough to speak to him. It was as if he knew what was coming as Lavoy cast that sobering look on him and brushed his curling blonde locks aside, the expression which riddled Desmond's attractive face even heavier than his father's grave look. The intelligent youth listened raptly to his father's command, and when he had made his mind clear, Desmond's lips smoothed into a flat purse. "I see..." His lips then parted to speak, his tones almost meticulous. "And when I go to you... with such an intimate act as feeding, he shall be wounded, thus our bond with you shall also be shattered. Belorian alone can stay my desire for his blood and essence, father. Will you give Belorian unto your sons, and Bastion with him, to insure our health?" he asked. Nothing less would satisfy the incubus, and in that proposition, he was looking out for Briard as well. "And you need not worry about, Briard. He is of the same mind as you are," he added for insurance.
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Lavoy:
Lavoy's jade eyes steadied on his son, then he winced when he pointed out the obvious. It WOULD hurt Avery when the twins came to him to douse their hunger and needs. He felt like he was leaping from side to side on a scale, trying to keep it in balance. "You are wiser than your father at times, do you know that?" Lavoy answered, then wrapped Desmond into a tight hug, giving a breath of a sigh. "Belorian and Bastion... are yours. Attend to them as you need for satisfaction, be it to feed or otherwise. I wish there was another way to do this, Desmond, but I see no other route." Leaning back, he patted his son's cheek and smiled tightly. "We will speak more of this later. Your brother as well. I have to see to Malik's clan."
Departing from his son, Lavoy headed back down the corridor and into the dining hall, only to pause in the doorway.

He walked in just as he heard Samad suggest that she belly dance for them, and the dark haired twin was flushed a deep red, but knew she could not move, as it would be rude to leave.She had to get used to the men and their lighthearted ways. "Well sir, I would have to decline. I DO know how to bellydance, but that is learned for my future husband, so that I may exploit his mind." A laugh rose from the table, including a chuckle from Lavoy. Fiona snorted, then leaned forward over the table. "And once I figure out who that will be, I will be sure to let you know." That made the men laugh harder, and Fiona looked pleased. See, she could handle herself. This was easy. Glancing up, she saw that Lavoy had returned, and she immediately rose from the table, stepping away from his chair. "Gentlemen..." She gave a slight dip of her head, then turned to move out of the dining hall, leaving Lavoy to take his seat back. Well, that had distracted her for awhile. Now, she headed outside and down the hillside. Perhaps she would go down to the river and go for a swim...
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Ghazi Clan:
Malik, and those men and women with him in the banquet hall, rose and bowed to Lavoy when he returned, showing him the proper courtesy a Prince deserved. When the desert blood and his company reclaimed their seats, Malik tapped his fingernails on the satiny smooth plane of the table. "You have your people well organized, few as they are, Prince Garceaux. This is good to see. I commend you for your excellent care of your Kingdom and clan. I am sure they are all very proud to call you their Prince," he complimented him earnestly. "In time, you shall come to know my clansmen better, and to learn their strengths and weaknesses, and where best to place their skills. They shall obey you, as they obey me, and though their loyalty shall not be divided from their own Prince, they shall prove as loyal to you and your clan as I demand of them. None of them was opposed to the idea of serving the Black Lion Clan, whose reputation for honor and fairness exceeds you. We are all brothers, and even those beast kin and demons who serve me, are counted as clan, for who but family can we honestly trust?" a faint smile curled his lips, and he leaned forward to poor himself another goblet of wine. "Those who are not cursed by the suns, shall stand watch during light of day, while the rest shall make their rounds during the night." The vampire leaned back comfortably in his seat. "There was something I recalled the other day, which I wished to mention to you. You and your sire once had vinyards, and fermented the finest wines. Is that art lost to you? For if not, your meadows are rich, and you might consider a vinyard as a way to support and suppliment your resources," he suggested. "Now, is there any particular task you would commit me, or any of my people to overseeing?" he inquired, his dark brown eyes settling on the attractive Prince after relishing a sip of the wine.
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Spud:
Bastion had been helping with the preparations being made for the arrival of the Ghazi Clan. From readying sleeping quarters to helping with food for the numbers that had gathered that could eat normal food. The dark haired angel was always glad to have something to occupy himself with. He met Fiona leaving the dinning hall and gave her a questioning look..he was unsure of what would come of all of this but held faith that Lavoy knew what he was doing. "I will help you." Cracking a grin, he brushed by her and picked up the pitchers once in the hall. She had to know it was as much his curious nature as it was the desire to give her a helping hand. The angel's hair had been shorn, black strands of silk brushing his cheeks with the cant of his head as he peered through the doorway. His eyes, a stormy grey..wandered over the others gathered there. A quiet assessing study as he moved from one to the other filling their goblets as needed. They were no doubt thirsty after their journey and it gave the angel the opportunity to get a better feel for them. His manner was quiet, not necessarily shy. When he had refilled the goblets Fiona had filled once already, Bastion retreated to stand near the furtherest wall where he could see everyone.
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JD:
Bastion was not alone in getting acquainted with his new associates. Malik and his clan were surveying and studying the Black Lion Clan as they themselves were being observed. One conclusion the vampire drew was that the Black Lion clan was one of the handsomest clans of vampires he had ever laid eyes on. There was not one unbecoming face among them...including their slave Roary, who was gathering empty dishes. The vampires were excluded from the meals of course, wine and certain other beverages aside, unlike their lycanthrope and demon patrons, but enjoyed the service of Fiona and Bastion with as much appreciation as those who did eat. Malik could tell by the way Bastion seemed to soak in everything the Ghazi said and did, that he was very loyal to his clan and prince. Malik's eyes traveled across the table to Samad when his voice lifted with laughter as Sayyid's beautiful progeny Akilah knocked a glass of wine over with her elbow, to spill it into Samad's lap, then grabbed a linen napkin off the table to wipe the wine from his lap. "Oh, baby...you are such a wicked tease. Admit it, it was no accident was it?" he grinned, his laughter growing more rich as she 'squeezed' the wine from the leather with the cloth. "You are cruel, woman!" Malik shook his head and bent his focus towards the handsome fellow who breezed into the banquet hall to pull a sneak on Bastion. The boy's looks made Malik very curious, for he was the spitting image of Lavoy with exception of his jaw being more squarely masculine. He had the same intense green eyes as well, and when the youth stole up behind Bastion, he embraced him from behind, and lifted him off his feet to kiss his throat with playful abandon. The handsome true born was not shy to be sure. His scent was not as strong as Avery's, but more delicate...and every bit as savory to Malik, who had a fetish for angelics... which he himself was... An abominate vampire like the youth accosting Bastion with his affections. Malik had no warmth, no scent, and no memory of his existance as an angel. He had been among the first ten sired by Caine when he was still mortal, a year after his fall, ages and ages before the first pentacle of angels had been cast down. Unlike Lavoy, he had not been reborn as a mortal, but fallen to become mortal in his descension. He remembered the days and years after the fall...nothing before it, which suited him just fine. "And who is this handsome fellow?" the Ghazi Prince asked, as his gaze pinned Bastion and Desmond. "Are you Prince Garceaux's son?" When he was answered, he would reply by saying how honored he was to meet him, then introduce himself to the youth, and hence pay his compliments to Lavoy for producing such a fine, handsome son. Malik's thoughts on the youth were kept to himself...The fact that true borns were so rare, so hard to accomplish, and so very powerful...dangerous in fact. He was also eager to know who the 'mother' was. Indeed he would be amazed to learn that the mother, was in fact, a male angelican, and that his androgynous body was functional to what point he had been able to bear twins.

Desmond was incorrigible to be sure, and no, he was not shy about his sexuality or his preferances. The kisses he stole from Bastion's throat were playful, but also hungry and passionate. His arms wrapped him as he set him on his feet again, his suckles on that strawberry flavored throat deepening in full disregard of the platter Bastion balanced in his hand all the while he sampled his delicious flesh. Desmond's lips then broke from that smooth flesh to whisper to him, his voice and breath sizzling with his desire for the angel. "My beloved father has given Briard and I his consent to feast on your bliss... Isn't that wonderful, Bastion?" it was perfectly wonderful to Desmond, and he intended to MAKE it fantastic for Bastion... The better Bastion felt, the more energy was expelled for Desmond and Briard to feast on after all. "You will never have to be lonely again," he promised. All of this was spoken so quietly, that few but Bastion would hear his words... Only... Malik heard it too, for he was seated just a few feet away from the two, and his hearing was ultra-keen. When Malik asked who he was, Desmond's gaze sliced on him, and he straightened slightly as the vampire's eyes communicated that it was he, he was asking after. "I am Desmond..." He never gave too much about himself away to strangers, and Malik had a dark look and feel he did not trust. When Malik asked if he was Lavoy's son, he looked for his father, and when his gaze found Lavoy, and he nodded that it was alright to speak to Malik, Demond's gaze shifted back on Malik. "Yes... I am his son. I have a twin... who is ten minutes younger," he added, figuring he would meet Briard soon enough. Briard was in fact WITH Avery, but reading Yeats to him...He would not disobey Lavoy, nor did he want to. Bastion would feel Desmond's arms coil him more snugly as he spoke to Malik, his hold both possessive and protective, and somewhat carnal inasmuch as his loins pressed firmly against his ass while embracing him. A faint smile ticked at the corner of his mouth as the vampire said how honored he was to meet him. "The honor is all mine, Prince Malik, I am sure." He remembered his manners, but all he really wanted to do, was drag Bastion away to his room. Indeed, after that exchange with Malik, Desmond whispered to Bastion once more. "When you are done here...bring some wine to my chamber, Bastion, and I will awaken such bliss in you, as shall make you weep," he invited, the seductive quality of his voice coming as naturally to him as the roving disposition of his hands as they slid between Bastion's thighs. Several uncomfortable looks from the table, particularly from the ladies, made Desmond's hand retreat however. The lady Akilah was particularly beautiful, and she DID notice how handsome the Black Lion's clansmen were. Desmond could tell that she knew how beautiful she was. "The ladies are jealous, I think," he told Bastion, and snickered, then kissed him and withdrew from the Banquet Hall, his invitation open to Bastion whenever he could escape his duties. There was only ONE meal Desmond wanted, and it was in Bastion's pants!

Malik watched the youth as he took his leave and then bent his gaze on Lavoy. He lifted his wine to sip it before he addressed him. "Your son has your looks. His blood is also very hot," he smiled. "Who is his mother, if you don't mind my asking? Geni is the only female I have seen among you...and Mathea...but not since you came here. Is she still with you?" the vampire's questions naturally curious ones. He dipped a finger into his wine as he spoke, and then sucked it from his finger as he waited for Lavoy's response. The little interactions between Desmond and Bastion had stirred things in him that he would find a release for later.

-------------------------

Lavoy:
Now that the burden of worry had been lifted off of Lavoy's shoulders about Avery's well being, he relaxed with a glass of wine and good conversation. Laughter lifted as that liquid splashed into Samad's lap, then began to be mopped up by the lovely looking girl. Poor Fiona remained in a constant state of pink cheeks as she moved around the table, refilling glasses. The fact that Bastion had come to help her won him a light kiss to the cheek in thanks. She had been more than willing to take on the task of helping with food and drink, but then had realized just how many there were. She had to admit though, she WAS curious about all of these new members of the household. It had never been this full when she had lived here as a child.

Lavoy glanced up as Desmond suddenly stepped into the room. He knew that look on his son's face, and had no time to give Bastion a warning look before his hands swept to haul the angel against him. Snorting, Lavoy took a swallow of his wine and hid his grin in his cup. When it began to get too hot for the company, Lavoy frowned and shook his head to Desmond, advising him silently to cut it out. Moments later, his son departed and Lavoy relaxed again. Perhaps tact would be the next lesson he would drop on his son. Looking up, he grinned as Fiona came over to refill his glass, and her face was bright red. "Don't worry, dear. Faust is alot less forward than that in public. He won't embarass you so." Fiona finished filling his glass ,then gave him a pointed look and a murmur, "No, but he won't bother touching me either. I would rather be embarassed." Turning on heel, she went down the next side of the table, leaving Lavoy in stitches. The girl was a walking time bomb. Perhaps he should set up some kind of false arranged marriage to drive Faust nuts. Maybe have Fiona and Bastion get bethrothed. No, he would never believe that. Maybe one of Malik's clan members! Now THAT would be hilarious. Might get the boy's head in the game.

Lavoy's thoughts were cut off as Malik leaned in to speak with him. Lavoy smiled proudly. "Yes, that is my oldest son. I am not sure HOW his blood got to be the way it is. He is nearly insaciable. " Sipping his wine, he then was brought back to the present. Avery. He had to address them about Avery. "His mother, in essence, is my lover, Avery. I need to have your clan meet him." Mentally, Lavoy would call out to Avery to come to the dining hall immediately and pause whatever he was doing. Yes, him. It was odd. Minutes later, Avery would creep shyly into the dining hall, and Lavoy would rise from his seat to meet him. Wrapping an arm around his shoulders, he would turn him to face the table. "I would like everyone to take a glance at the man standing in front of me. This is Avery. He is my lover, and my only one at that. Just yesterday, there was a kidnapping attempt that was meant for him. Therefore, I will need to make sure that the highest of security is given to him. The man who was responsible for the attempt is chained up in the dungeon, but there may be more. From what we understand, any Almascan may be on the hunt for him. So, memorize the face, and if you see him wandering off alone, make sure you keep an eye on him." Leaning down, he nuzzled his lips against Avery's ear and smiled. "I have taken care of the issue with the twins, and with Bastion. Later, I would like to discuss a vacation for the two of us...one that is a little longer than we had last night." His fingers lifted to drag across Avery's neck, and when he felt him shiver, he grinned and turned him back around to face him. Ignoring any stares, he dipped his mouth for a gentle kiss, then spoke. "Would you like to come and have a drink? Or retire back to the chambers? I was thinking...perhaps we could take a hot bath later?" Giving him a wink, he would leave the decision up to Avery.

-----------------------

Spud:
Bastion was taken by surprise by the sneak Desmond pulled on him that the dark haired angel gave a short shout of surprise. "Ach!" Lifted up from behind and his throat met with kisses that quickly turned to deep, sultry tugs on his flesh. His skin flushed..not from so much embarassment but the heat that surged through his veins. The arrangement whispered against his ear ..was he being pawned off on the twins for lack of interest by Lavoy? One quick glance to his Prince..Bastion knew better..and took the arrangement for what it was and grateful for it. He HAD been lonely..too long. His lips curved faintly, though his fingers were working on prying himself from Desmond's ams to go back to helping Fiona and Roary. The feel of Desmond's tightening embrace however, stilled Bastion's efforts..the possessive protectiveness of his hold was relished. Craved as something too rarely felt. Desmond was not Artorius or Lavoy..nor Desiree who he had such love for even now, there would be no way he would turn either of the twins away. They could give and take what they needed from one another and Bastion was very loyal and fond of them both. After Malik and Desmond had spoken and Desmond's whisper brushed his ear again..his body stretching in a feline flex of muscles to the touch of Desmond's hand between his thighs. "I will be there soon.." The dark haired angels reply had come in a quiet hush of breathlessness. It was not until Desmond retreated that he noted the uncomfortable looks and took up a pitcher to refill drinks again. Black silky strands of hair grazing his cheeks in the tilt of his head as he moved from one to another of their guests. His manner pleasant. Bastion had caught the comment about Faust passed between Lavoy and Fiona, he didn't snicker..Fiona might not be able to resist the urge to hit him with one of those heavy pitchers. Luckily, Servius was at his post..had HE heard those comments? Bastion was glad he wasn't! The question of Malik's concerning the mother..soon had Avery arriving and being introduced to the Ghazi Clan. He had dipped his head in greeting, full on with a warm smile for his Prince's lover..he could hold nothing against him..no matter that Lavoy had announced that Avery was his ONLY lover. It hurt because Bastion loved Lavoy..not like Artorius..but loved and craved him all the same. Though if Bastion had a mate... he would want to be all he or she needed.
----------------------

JD:
Avery opened his eyes as Lavoy's dulect voice slipped in through his senses to beckon him to the Banquet Hall. His gaze traveled across the northern end of the room as he pushed himself up, to where Briard sat reading to him. He waited for Briard to pause in his recitation before speaking to him. "Lavoy wishes my presence. Thank you for reading to me, Briard." The younger twin was quite good at it, expressive and genuine to the feeling of the stories or poems he read. A ghost of a smile warmed his face as he slid off the bed and went over to the dresser to pull a pair of umber leather pants on over his black boxers, and a deep cut burgundy shirt of light, pleated cotten on. The boots he tugged on over a pair of tan socks, were a soft deer hide which laced up to the knees. Lastly he brushed his hair, then his teeth, and went downstairs. Indeed it was a shy approach he made of the crowd of strangers at the table...Malik the only one he recognized, and he had met him only once before. His gaze locked on Lavoy when his arm draped his shoulder, the angel inching into his embrace until he was pressed up against him as he was turned to face the table. Lavoy's announcements to the Ghazi Clan floored him... but not unpleasantly, it was hope, joy, amazement he was overwhelmed by. He did not even care that he was to be placed under the watch of the two clans combined. Indeed it slid off him like an egg white off of glass. When Lavoy embraced him, he returned the gesture with zealous passion, and muscles knotted with delightful rushes as Lavoy's lips brushed his ear to whisper his plans to him. A gasp of rose scented breath carressing Lavoy's ear before Avery whispered back to him. "I love you." When given a choice to stay or go, Avery smiled and his arms tightened around him. "Given the choice to remain in your company, or be divided from it, I shall always choose to remain," he said, and laughed quietly. When Lavoy returned to his seat, Avery took the chair next to his, and poured him more of the heady wine before filling a goblet for himself. The angel glanced up to notice Malik staring at him, his own eyes avoiding the vampire's with exception of that brief glimpse. "It is strange having so many here. I had grown so used to the quiet," he remarked and sipped his wine, enjoying its dry fruity boquet of plum and anise. "Perhaps we could visit a beach..." he then suggested as his regard fell in the way of Lavoy once more. "Do you ever miss the city?" he then asked his heart's obsession. "It is strange... for though I lived alone, my servants aside...I felt close to the world, because I could walk outside and feel the heart-beat of the city. Here...The world feels so immense...and wild...Almost like we are intruders here. Do you ever feel that way?" Few ever saw the daring side of Avery...The passionate, strong side of him. Indeed he came off as very passive and gentle. So like a lamb. Innocent he was in his heart, but he had strengths and qualities that Lavoy alone had witnessed and recognized. Even his own sons thought he was weak, helpless even. Perhaps because their wills were so very strong, and because they were driven by instinct and devotion to protect him.

Malik could feel that angel's innocence...Even smell it in his rose fragrance. It shocked him that Avery had given birth to sons. How strange, how traumatic that must have been. He was such a gentle creature for Lavoy to have chosen as his mate. Hardly a creature a vampire could hold as his equal, he contemplated. His only lover... he'd said. Why? Did he see someone in that docile creature who could be his equal ? He wondered. Either Lavoy was fooling himself, or the angel was more than he appeared, he decided. "I know exactly how you feel, Avery" he added to their conversation. "This world is untamed... Full of wild and dangerous things. In our world... It was hard to get lost. Here? It is far easier to lose your way than to find it. We are intruders here, albeit, we are invited intruders. I do miss the city... It's heart-beat, yes. The life, the noise, the chaos," he concluded with a smile.

Samad laughed, drawing his attention. "And don't forget the hunting. It is far more dangerous to hunt here, and the choices they are slim. Vampires are meant to live in a world that is overpopulated and teeming with low lifes and scum for us to prey on."

Malik chuckled quietly. "Indeed, Samad, the challenges here are greater," he deemed. The Ghazi Prince then targeted Bastion with his gaze. "How fortunate for us that we have the trust and devotion of angels. Have you ever once wondered what it would be like to have others serve you, Sebastion?" He was curious to know.
-------------------------------

Spud:
Bastion listened attentively to the conversations around him as he worked to make rounds serving those that had arrived. Never obtrusive, but his manner was warm... friendly enough though with the invitation to join... or request, to join Desmond made it difficult not to slink away. The dark haired angel would go and he would indulge the twins and himself... none would know the disappointment or loss he felt all over again for being seperated from the one half... of the pair who by their own carnal appetites had nurtured his own. That he loved Artorius and Lavoy...with all of his heart... and because of that... Bastion was determined not to allow his own hurt to build jealousy within him. It was the question that drew his attentions from filling another goblet. His lips curved into a faint smile as the pitcher was drawn back and held near his chest. "No." A simple single-word answer to the question of wondering what it would be like to BE served by others... then he seemed to think on it for a moment and met Malik's gaze. "I've never wondered..." Bastion knew only how to serve... it was what made him happy, useful. Content. Balanced. Clan served one another, .each protecting, providing... but he had a feeling that was not how Malik had meant the question. He had answered honestly. "Would you care for more?" his smile grew a little more, fingers brushing back the black strands from his cheek.

-----------------------

Lavoy:
Lavoy was not entirely sure HOW he caused Avery to begin to glow with happiness, but apparently he had. When the angel clung to him to confess his love and that he would like to stay, the Prince grinned and escorted him to the table, pulling out the chair next to his so that he could settle in. As he sat, Avery refilled his glass, and Lavoy took a moment to lean over and place a soft kiss on his neck. Straightening, he took a swallow of the wine, then looked pleased at Avery's suggestion to visit a beach. "That is a fabulous idea. I miss the beach. It has been so long...." Trailing off, he looked thoughtful for a moment, then laughed when the topic was switched to the city. "No, I agree. I miss the congestion and the noise... at least now it will be a little more like that around here. The castle is too large for just a few people to wander around in." Setting down his goblet, Lavoy reached over to toy with Avery's long, auburn locks as he listened to Malik and Samad comment on the topic. "No, that is true. It was so much easier to hunt in the city. Here, it is a very dangerous thing. Who you choose, where you go...anything. It is alot to get accustomed to."

The conversation moved on for nearly an hour. Bastion and Fiona were working hard and finally got the table cleared of the last of the dirty dishes and goblets. Fiona quietly excused herself and disappeared from the dining hall. Lavoy watched her go with a slight frown. He was going to speak with Faust later. He needed to tell his clan brother to choose. Tell the woman he would be devoted to her, even if it DID take time, or cut her loose. She seemed to be taking this treatment entirely too roughly. Members of the clan began moving off to their appointed rooms, some of them needing help as they were a little too giddy off of the wine. Once the room was nearly empty, Lavoy rose and pulled Avery up with him, his arm circling his waist. Turning to Malik, he smiled ruefully. "Well, it is comforting to have your clan here with ours. As you can see, we were a little short on hands. We just showed up here, as many did, and had to start from scratch. Come, I will show you where your chambers are. They are not too far from my own." The three would move up the stairs, with anyone else who would follow, and Lavoy would take him first to his own chambers. Opening the door, he smiled at Avery and kissed him lightly on the lips. "Go inside, my love. I will be back to bed in just a few moments." Once Avery headed inside, Lavoy turned to lead Malik down to his own large chambers. Opening the door, he moved in to light a few more oil lamps. "Here you are. If there is something you need, let us know and we can get it for you." Turning to Malik, Lavoy folded his arms. "Welcome to Camelot, Lord Malik. I hope this will be a fruitful arrangement."
--------------------------

Willow:
Fiona studied her mother closely as she spoke. She knew that her mother was the strongest woman she had ever met, but she still hated making her dredge up old memories. Even still, Celeste would insist that she did not mind. Her daughter knew it pained her though. It was then that a suddenly ill feeling passed through Fiona, and she chewed on her lower lip, her fingers prying at the hem of her dress. She was being so selfish. She wanted Faust now and did not want to wait. Was she REALLY willing to give him up just like that? A tiny smile passed over her lips as she knew her answer. Rising from her seat, Fiona moved around the table to kiss her mother's cheek. "Thank you mother. I am going to take care of this. You made me see things a little more clearly." After giving her a tight hug, Fiona would step back through the glass doors into the Inn, then would head outside before disappearing. It was back to Black Camelot that she gated, and her feet ascended the stairs so that she could return to her room. It was at the wooden desk against the wall that she sat, pulling out a piece of paper and a pen so that she could write. It was a letter to Faust

Dear Faust,

This letter is in the sincerest of meanings, as I have come to do quite a bit of thinking over the last few days. I am a terrible person. Rotten, even. Since I have met you, I have been swept up by you. Your eyes, your scent, your dark hair, your smile and laughter... and all I wanted was to be yours. I wanted myself to be your number one priority in life. I wished that I was your air, your sunlight, your water... but it took me this long to realize that I cannot have that, nor do I WANT that. You are the most noble man I have ever met. You remain steadfast and loyal to your clan and have never let anyone down, from what I have seen. What I feel when I look at you is not only love, but pride. You make my heart swell when I see what kind of man you are, and I want you to hold fast to that. Never let that crumble and never waver, for it is your foundation. I give you now my blessing. My blessing to do whatever your heart tells you is right....even if it means letting me go to remain purehearted to your cause. I wish for nothing more than your happiness and comfort in life. All I ask is that you inform me of your decision, as I would like to know either way.

Love Always,Fiona

After penning the letter in her delicate scripting, Fiona folded the note carefully and rose, pressing it to her chest. Creeping out of her room and down the hall, she would find Faust's door cracked, but no sign of him. Perfect. Sneaking in, she would lay the note on his pillow, then make her getaway, hiding herself away in her room. She felt a kind of burden lifted. No matter what, she would find out from Faust where her next path in life would lead.
--------------------------

JD:
After a very intense night in bed, the next evening's warmth had compelled Avery to beg his lover to take him to the river for some skinny dipping. There was a wonderful swimming hole not three miles from the fortress, a very short ride as well as a pleasant and relaxed one. It was a hot evening, and perfect for swimming, the river's water still very pleasantly chilly. Well, swimming and splashing around, soon turned into a mud fight, when Avery found some smooth grey clay in the otherwise sandy river bank. Avery clapped a fistful of mud against Lavoy's bare chest and smeared it around, rubbing it into him real good, his laughter lifting like the sun as he did so. That mud was actually very good for the skin!! Avery then flung his arms around Lavoy to smooch him passionately, that mud packed between them feeling rather um... sexy, yeah. Who would have known how sexy mud could be?! When Lavoy lost his balance as Avery rocked him back in that kiss and snug embrace, Avery went under with his lover, and when he surfaced, he came up sputtering and even giggling with hysterical laughter. The angel then grinned, his eyes leering at Lavoy with a mischievous glint, and digging more clay out of the river bottom beneath him, he lunged at him with both fists full of wet clay. Damn Lavoy was quick! Splash, Avery went down in the water face forward, and rather than surface this time, he dove under the water as it deepened, to swim after the Prince whose dignity he stole with fun and games. Each stroke washed the mud off his hands in streams. The water was so cloudy with mud that he could not see a thing! So he swam blindly, feeling with his hands between each propelling stroke of water, in an attempt to make contact with one of Lavoy's limbs to latch onto him. Hopefully he did not grab the root between his legs by mistake! Tehehehehe. No, Avery would settle for that above the other four limbs! What better way to get a rise, and yeah, a goosed yap from Lavoy at once? Unfortunately, unless the water cleared, he had to grab what he could, if Lavoy did not get him first! Avery could hardly wait to go with Lavoy to the beach. He was not even sure he could withstand so much joy! Just frolicking with him at the river, swelled his heart with such promise and happiness, that every smile, and lilt of laughter was like an echo of his blissful soul.

As much fun as Avery was having with Lavoy, Desmond was overcoming his Avery and Lavoy-Sickness by basking himself and Briard in the greater joys of Bastion, likewise smothering Bastion with their lusts in the process. The twins sexual appetities were insatiable, and they absolutely fell in love with Bastion for many reasons. He was... eager for one, tasted wonderful for another, and he was a joy to be with. They three even played cards, went out riding together, and other activities between the carnal ones. Desmond sensed a sadness about Bastion though, and asked where it came from, prying and prodding until finally, the handsome raven haired angel confided in them about Desiree. Briard smiled and told Bastion they would help him look for her, saying what an adventure it would be, while Desmond chewed on his lower lip a moment in thought, and then shot his gaze on Briard. "We can do no such thing. We must guard birth father. You go if you like, but I will not leave father open to another attack." He was easily able to use duty to hide the fact that he was afraid of losing Bastion to this beautiful girl he absolutely beamed over speaking of. If she was found, they would lose Bastion too, he was sure. He was already very possessive of Bastion, and it showed in the way he dominated him sexually. Briard was more passive, perhaps not in love making or his fighting skills, but in his heart he was gentle as a kitten. The news of Desiree made him rethink everything he felt. He was falling for Bastion, and it seemed that because he was, he was setting himself for another heart break. A wounded look overcame his features and he rose from the large bed they were all sprawled on quickly, to turn his back to them to conceal his emotions. "I need something to eat... I will be back in a little while." He left Briard and Bastion at that, even before they could respond to him. Briard watched him leave, feeling everything his twin felt, and then with a soft sigh, he bent his gaze on Bastion, who had a look of anxiety on his face. The angel brushed his fingers softly across Bastion's cheek. "Don't worry, he will be alright. He loves you, and is hurt by the thought of losing you as he did father. Please don't feel bad... It is not your fault that he feels the way he does," the angel then kissed Bastion deeply, and snuggled up against him. Their combined warmth was balmy and soothing.
-------------------------------

Spud:
Faust had been at his post, there were few of them and he took his duties each night and slept during the daylight hours and it left little time for anything else. Since the outburst in the study by Fiona and the scene in the other room after... he had not chanced to lay eyes on her for more than a few passing moments. Faust had meant what he said, that he would see her soon but the arrival of the Ghazi Clan had thwarted any attempts to steal away for enough time to see her. It was when he had returned to his chambers some few hours or so before dawn and began undressing, in need of bathing... that he saw the letter. Shirt pulled off, his boots one after the other left him padding across the cool floor on barefeet. Fingers raked through the dense curls, dropping himself to the bed to stretch across it and rest his head on the pillows. The letter was dragged towards him, flipped over and then unfolded it. Servius read it twice over.. laid it aside for several minutes. She was an impatient girl, but could she be blamed? She was young, beautiful and could well have her choice of lovers. It had been unfair of him to let her wait. Still, the thought of her with someone else spurred jealousy within him. A curse was grunted aloud, the dark haired vampire stood up and began dressing again without the benefit of a bath. The letter was left behind as he closed the door and set off to find her.. at least this time it seemed he wouldn't have to haul her off over his shoulder. With so many ''guests'', Faust was all the more aware of who was where.. he wasn't given over to blind trust.
-------------------------

Willow:
Fiona had retired to her room, but had grown bored. Not to mention, her sweet tooth kicked in. Crawling off of her bed, she padded out of her room with bare feet. She still wore the white silk dress, however, but she had discarded her sandals on her bedroom floor. Sugar. She wanted something sugary. Minutes later, she was scrounging through the kitchen. Her green eyes lit up in remembereance then. Aiden and her used to make fruit parfaits. Oh yuuuuuumm, those sounded good! Pulling down a glass from the cupboard, she placed it on the counter top and proceeded to dig out different types of fruit, along with a container of thick whipping cream. Her delicate fingers held down the fruit, first tackling a pile of strawberries, as her hand worked at using a paring knife, slicing the fruits. Tossing the stems into a pile, it was when she went to wipe her knife on a towel and dump the strawberries in the bottom of the glass that she noticed movement. Her deep green eyes lifted and she felt her stomach jump and her heart start to race. Faust was standing in the doorway. Forcing a polite smile, she called a faint 'Hello' before scooping a pile of blueberries in front of her. She ALWAYS felt like this when she saw him, and she sometimes wished it would stop. She felt lightheaded around him. It was the closest she ever got to SWOONING, for God's sake. If she ever DID faint from seeing him, she was going to be mortally embarassed and she was moving to Pakistan. "Come, have a seat. I was just making myself a snack." Her voice sounded alot calmer and smoother than she felt. Once she had the blueberries sliced, she used a spoon to dump a pile of cream into the glass over the strawberries, then dumped the blueberries over those. Then followed another glob of cream before she began working on her last pile of fruit, lucious looking cherries, which she began to pit. After Faust would sit, IF he would, there would be a few moments of silence before Fiona spoke. "I wanted to apologize to you.. for my behavior the other day. I have never EVER acted like that it my ENTIRE life... you can ask my mother. And... it just happened. I did not mean to embarass you or make you uncomfortable. So... I am sorry. And I swear, it will not happen again." She chanced lifting her eyes to study Faust and his reaction. If he looked angry, she would want to cry.
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JD--Malik:
Malik's lips sliced into the faintest smile, his eyes rapt on Lavoy as the prince finally acknowledged his presence with Tiber's on the riverside. The vampire ducked out from beneath the trees and approached the sloping bank to step onto the sand and pebble beach which the moon bathed in its silvery light. He bowed to Lavoy, but was laughing when he straightened, his dark brown eyes shimmering on the comely, Black Lion vampire as he handed those deer hide pants to his mate, behind his back. "This man introduced himself to me as Tiber Decasey, and he came seeking an audience with you concerning Lord Maelmorda Kilcanoragh. I have simply delivered him to your acquaintence," he informed Lavoy. His gaze then brushed Avery and riveted on Lavoy afterwards. "Such temptations you pit me against, Prince Garceaux." The smile which accompanied his comment was cagey. "Pity the slave that shall have to suffer the pleasures of my appetites in the hours to come. Being a man who has known, and even prefers masculine knowledge, I am compeled to tame my inner beasts after observing such a spectacle as we have witnessed here today." He would take his leave of Lavoy to make good on his promise, but only after Tiber had addressed the prince. Tiber was as much a stranger to Lavoy as to Malik, and the Ghazi vampire would not leave the Prince alone in the company of one who felt as dark as Tiber did to his senses and his instincts. Malik would take a stance at Lavoy's side as Tiber came forward hence, and damn if Malik was not tempted to smack that beautiful ass of Lavoy's.

Tiber:
The faintest smirk toyed with Tiber's lips as Malik blamed his lusts on Lavoy. "We could have opted not to watch them," he pointed out bluntly. "I for one, would rather have this aching stiffy, than have missed that for the world," he added with a wickedly charming grin. "You two really should sell that body candy of yours. You would be posing naked one moment, and sitting on a tropical island the next, sipping on mai tais," he laughed. "And yes, I am Tiberious Decasey, son of Byron Decasey," he added to Malik's prior introduction with a deep bow. When he straightened, his eyes, glanced Avery and then locked on Lavoy. The hue of his blue-grey-green eyes was even darker than Malik's. He took after his mother in his looks, as did his twin sister, only his wraught iron eyes were like his father's. "Maelmorda sent me. He requests an audience with you, only he cannot come to you. He is presently in New Orleans, at Club Elysium, my sister's club. He... is in trouble. It appears, he is cursed, and that nothing he attempts succeeds very well, if at all. It was an accident that he delivered himself with his progeny Seth to the states. In any case, he had many concerns for his wife, Gala, and for his son, Corwyn. I think... it may be his hope that you shall come and reside with him while he is, well in a word, trapped in the Americas. Living... on the upper floor, if you catch my drift, has always made him nervous, I believe. Particularly when he is aware of who the hell he is. If you are unable to relocate yourself and those you would wish to accompany you there, I have an item with me that shall assist you," he explained, and withdrew two rings from his pocket. "One is for you, and the other is for whoever you would choose to have the other. The one with the blood ruby is the dominant ring, and the one with the black opal is its proxy. The one wearing the dom always knows where the proxy is. In any case... There are five locations they will deliver you to, by speaking the name of the place you wish to go. New Orleans, it shall deliver you to Club Elysium's parking garage. London, it shall deliver you to an old theatre there. Romania, it shall deliver you to a little known cave in the carpathian alps. France, it shall deliver you beneath a bridge in Paris. And lastly, Home, which shall deliver you to whatever location you embarked from on Morashtar." There was one other location, but he would not even mention that. It was not a place Lavoy, or any other earth native, would have ever heard of before. Tiber would accept NO refusal of the offered gifts. "What reply shall I take our lord?" he then asked. Yes, he considered Maelmorda Lavoy's lord as much as his own, whether Sammael was in charge of the fleet now or not.

Avery:
Avery's cheeks reddened as Malik said pity the slave... and Tiber spoke of body candy and mai tais, and with his pants pulled half-way up, he make a quick pardon..."I am going back to... home..." he stammered and he rushed off towards the horses, hopping along with each hard pull of those snug leather pants as they clung to his wet body, to fall down once before he reached the tethered horses. With no shirt or boots on, he quickly untied the tethers on the smoke dapple he had ridden, who Avery had named Smokey, and mounted up to ride off rather hastily. No, he was not shy with Lavoy, but was phobic of being seen nude by strangers, or anyone other than a very very few. Lavoy alone knew the reasons for it. Between being used as a sex and torture slave at that underground bondage club Valis was privy to, and the feeding struggles with Desmond and Briard, Avery was a mess if exposed around others. He rode off at a gallop, the mare kicking up dirt and grass in her swift departure. He followed the river east, planning to cut south to the castle in a fairly straight path, leaving Lavoy to his business with the two vampires. He never would have left him if he had thought for a moment that Lavoy was not safe in Tiber and Malik's hands, which the Prince was. Neither of the men had any ill intentions for his beloved, and Avery had a sense for such things. In any case, he had traveled further east than he had intended, his mount thundering down on two figures which crept along low in the grass with a net stretched between them. The rider startled the two goblins, who in turn startled Avery and his horse, who held on tight as his mare reared up to paw the air as the goblins caterwauled. Avery's fear was not long lived as he saw what the two goblins had been after... Two young, black lion cubs sat back to back in the grass, shivering and yowling with fear. A rage filled the angel, which awakened the fiercely courageness side of him, which so few every witnessed, and taking control of his mare, he drove her towards the goblins, which fled in fear of the enraged rider and his battle trained mare. She was young, but like her rider, she had plenty of spirit. Trampling one of the goblins, he drove the horse after the other, which wound up diving into the river to escape... Only the river was turbulent there, and a strong current swept the goblin up and drowned her. She was a poor swimmer to begin with. The other was so badly injured from being trampled, that he played dead while Avery drove his sibling into the river, and then rode the horse back to where he had seen the lion cubs. The goblins had killed the lioness, which Avery soon found the remains of after dismounting, and once he had hoisted the lion's body up on the haunches of his mare, and calmed her with his voice as he secured the animal's remains to the horse with some rope, he went looking for the cubs. Their cries made them all too easy to find, and he approached them cautiously, then stooped down to lift them up, first one and then the other, and cradling them beneath his arms, he mounted the horse with quite a bit of difficulty, and rode back to the castle with the lion cubs cradled against his lap and bare chest. He was scratched all to hell by the time he arrived at the castle, where Belorian met him and escorted him to the stables, where Avery placed the two lion cubs in one stall. The horses were nervous at first, but soon calmed down. Avery gained the trust of the cubs after only an hour of sitting and talking gently with them, while he stroked them with tender care, during what time Belorian had taken care of the Lioness' remains, as well as looking after the mare for him. The cubs in Avery's arms were obviously a hand full, and Belorian truly wondered if Avery knew what had gotten himself into, taking the responsibility of caring for two very demanding lion cubs. Both of them were males which was one less problem at least. He watched the younger angel with the cubs for awhile, aftering stabling his mare, then parted with him to take care of the other task Avery had given him. The lioness he skinned, and the meat, claws and teeth would be also be put to use, for it was fresh and no life delivered to him would go to waste. Avery had felt the same way, which was why he had brought the dead lioness with him. Indeed he asked Belorian if a blanket for the cubs could be made of the fur, which Belorian promised he would do. It would be there in the stable Lavoy would find Avery, asleep in a fresh pile of hay and sawdust, with two black lion cubs nestled up asleep against him.
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Lavoy:
The moment that Avery flushed red and turned to rush at the horses, Lavoy groaned inwardly. He would have laughed as he watched that sexy ass hop up and down, trying to wiggle into his pants, but he felt terrible for his lover. He knew how tender he was, and how phobic of letting anyone but Lavoy see him nude and vulnerable like that. Watching him ride off, Lavoy swore silently to himself, then turned to Tiber with a look of apology. "I am sorry about that. Avery is severely shy, if you could not tell." Reaching up to rub the back of his neck, Lavoy then went about gathering his own clothing and pulling it slowly on. Hell, Lavoy could care less about who saw him naked. Sometimes he even walked around the castle that way. Dressing, aside from his boots, he worked his mind over what offer Maelmorda had sent. After a few minutes, he spoke, straightening to look at Tiber and the rings that were offered to him. "I thank you. And yes, Maelmorda must be a little uneasy with his current situation. He and Seth just seemed to have... vanished. No one could track their asses down." Trying to rake his fingers through his wet hair, Lavoy then slid the bloodred ring onto his own finger, then tucked the other into his pocket. "Tell him that I will come and visit him at my earliest convenience, but if you do honestly suspect that he wishes the clan to relocate, advise him that I cannot. The clan has just gotten settled here and were are trying to plant roots. It would be unwise to unearth them again, especially so soon." When the two finished exchanging words, Lavoy would wipe his hand on his shirt before extending it to Tiber to give him a firm handshake, telling him how wonderful it was to meet him. The man was straightforward and blunt, and got business taken care of.

Once he was gone and Malik departed as well, Lavoy mounted his own mare and reigned her towards the castle. Once he reached home he would search out Avery, and would sense him in the stables. Upon entering, his heart lurched into his throat. He had never seen anything so adorable. His lover was fast asleep with two tiny lion cubs curled up against him. They looked like little balls of black fluff. They had not yet grown their adult coats. Smiling softly, he felt his throat tighten. He was going to paint this later. Moving quietly and slowly, he inched closer and then sat down on a hay bale not four feet away. One of the cubs stirred, rolling on his back to stretch and yawn with that tiny mouth and needlepoint teeth, he then flopped back over on his side and nuzzled his mouth against Avery's stomach. A cub letting out an unhappy chirp, he cracked one eye open and pawed softly at the angel's stomach. He was hungry and was demanding that Avery produce milk. Snickering quietly, Lavoy folded his arms across his knees to watch. Is this how their sons had been when they were born? He felt a pang of regret for not being there. If Avery would awaken, he would find Lavoy sitting closeby, smiling softly. "I see you have made two new friends." He would point out, hoping to avoid what Tiber and Malik had embarassed him about.
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Spud:
Bastion enjoyed the twins company incredibly, not only their carnal appetites..which HE gave himself over to with such eagerness... but the time they spent riding, playing cards and other things. For one brief moment, when he had found out that Lavoy had given him to his sons... the dark haired angel had felt a flicker of pained jealousy. Not only had he lost Artorius..Desiree... now... Lavoy. It had lasted just a brief moment and was spurred by the ache of his heart for the way things had once been. Bastion was never one to blame others..
or to look for reasons to stir trouble.. instead, he embraced Briard and Desmond's hunger and sought to ease their hearts and his as well. Desiree lingered in his thoughts just as Artorius always did..and in his heart..nwhere there was always a hint of sadness shadowing his eyes. It couldn't be helped and he did not lay his hearts troubles on anyone. It had taken some amount of prying and prodding to get the angel to finally speak of Desiree to the twins. It was true, whenever he spoke of her..he lit up and when Briard spoke to say they would help him find her? His heart leaped with hope..only when he saw Desmond's reaction.."Desmond.." the angel was about to scramble from the bed and follow him when Briard brushed his fingers over his cheek and whispered to him not to worry. Briard did not need to explain to Bastion, he he had felt Desmond's emotions as they lapped through him like waves against his soul. He wanted to say that he would never leave Desmond or Briard.. that he would be theirs for as long as they wanted him..and while it was true in Bastion's heart.. if Desiree was found and would have him... he wanted to marry her. Bastion twisted and nuzzled deep against Briard, his whole body gave a shudder. "I love you both." it was very quiet, weighted with truth. Maybe Desiree would not want him, perhaps she had moved on.. or maybe he should leave well enough alone and be content with all that he had now. His eyes closed tightly.. from the first moment he had seen her.. Bastion had loved her. Could he just let that go? Be content?

The next day, Bastion came across Desmond and sneaked from behind to throw himself on his back with a 'ggrrrrr' and nipped at his neck. "Let's find your brother.. the day is beautiful, we could go find a place to swim?" Leaning around him he flashed a hopeful smile and slid from his back to rest his head against it. If neither of them wished to go.. Bastion, who rarely left the grounds.. would go adventuring on his own. Others had spoken of the Inn.. the lake.. other places they had been and with the weather so inviting.. he could not help himself.
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JD:
Briard and Desmond alike treasured Bastion, loved him fiercely, and had grown as protective of him as they were their fathers. Even when they were not with Avery and Lavoy, they always knew where they were, and let what they felt, good or bad, flow through them. They had a connection to their parents that was unbreakable. It was part of what they were...Guardians. When Bastion pulled that playful ambush on Desmond the next day, that throat arched to those nibbles as a breath of laughter sang from his voice, and his arms flew around behind him to hug him as well as he could from behind. His head then turned to press his cheek against Bastion's, and he smiled at the invitation to go swimming. "How about we go to the beach? To the ocean? I have never seen the ocean," he suggested. If Bastion liked the idea, Desmond would call on Briard and ask him to prepare a picnic lunch to bring along. When they were all ready to go, Desmond would gather the shadows around them and shift them north to North Haven Shores, the territory of King Aurelius Ambrosious. The beaches there were ivory white, and islands could be seen to the north, northwest and northeast, the Isle of the Dragon, where Castle Noctmaire was included. Shells and smooth stones splashed the sand with color, and the ocean was a deep, turquoise blue. The surf was just rough enough to make it possible to body surf, but not dangerous, and the tides though stiff were not perilous on that stretch of beach. The sun on the water and sand was blinding to both Desmond and Briard as they stepped out onto the beach, but their angelic constitution was strong enough that the sun took none of their strengths away. The moment Bastion stepped onto the sand? He would be tackled by the twins, who would promptly strip him of his clothes before Desmond picked him up over his shoulder and bolted for the water, to dive in with Bastion, Briard rushing in after them after shedding his own clothes. He had already stripped Desmond of his knee length tunic, which was all he had worn.
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Spud--Bastion:
"We can swim with the dolphins and bury Briard in the sand!" laughter welled up from the raven-haired angel, well.. it was a fantastical land, who was to say that it couldn't happen? His arms finally loosened from the hold he'd jumped Desmond with. "Besides, I haven't been anywhere beyond these grounds.." Bastion was anxious to explore the world they had found themselves in. A part of him had laid his heart's hope of finding Desiree aside. He loved her.. deeply..he would not give up his hopes of seeing her again..and when he did? He was going to confess his heart to her.. leave nothing to doubt of his love for her. For now though.. Briard and Desmond had already been through so much, he just wanted to see them happy. To see everyone happy. Still, he dreamed of her often..wrote letters that he kept stashed in an ornate box he had found in the chamber he occupied. While Briard packed a lunch for the three of them..Bastion had gone off to help with chores and tasks with the others. He was polite to those of the Ghazi Clan..and attentive when they spoke to talk or ask questions.

In a while, he had met up with the twins who he had become so close to over the past weeks. Kisses planted to both of their cheeks, it was hard to miss the enthusiasm and eagerness Bastion felt. Once they had been caught up in that gate that delivered them onto those beautiful white sands..Bastion was about to comment on the amazing color of the ocean when...uummmph! He was tackled by the twins...his clothing stripped from his wriggling body, Bastion laughing hysterically and trying to fend the two off. "AAaahhh Help!! I've been kidnapped by a barbarian!!" his laughter carried in those mock pleas as Desmond scooped him up over his shoulder and ran to dive into the water with him. Glub glub glub! Briard wasn't far behind them either! The dark haired angel wrapped himself around Desmond like an octopus under the water! When they broke the surface.. he still didn't let go but shoved Desmond back under.. spearing a finger at Briard warning him playfully. "Back.. back...!" all the while struggling to gain the vantage and get Desmond back under so he could kick off and make his escape further out from the shore.
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Willow April 19th:
Fiona was indeed a heavy sleeper. Well, at least after a night of passion and exhaustion such as that previous night had been. No, she was hardly a child anymore, and the way she responded to him so fully proved that. As the sun sank and Faust awakened, Fiona was still out cold, a peaceful and serene look on her face. However, her brow did tighten slightly and her lips parted to let out a sigh in her sleep as Faust's lips began that brave trek down her neck and to each of her breasts. When his tongue dragged over her nipple, Fiona shivered in her sleep and let out a soft whimper, her fingers shifting across the sheets. Now, when his thumb decided to make that descent and press into her clit, Fiona's mossy green eyes shot open and her lower back arched in shock and pleasure. Gasping, her fingers clutched at the sheets below her, her nipples hardening instantly. Christ, what was happening to her?! It took her a few moments to remember where she was.... and to realize who was between her thighs. Shuddering, she let out that sinfully sweet whimper and fell back against the pillows in absolute extasy.

At this very moment, Lavoy was heading down that same corridor with Bastion, the twins trailing behind them. He felt horribly guilty and was fearful that he had been neglecting Bastion since Avery's upsetting moment of seeing them getting hot and heavy. Passing him onto the twins had been a good idea, but Lavoy STILL was Bastion's friend and would not trade him for the world. He could tell that something had been plaguing the angel as of late, and he wanted to sit with him and have a drink to talk about it. The twins knew, of course, that it was his decision about Desiree and whether or not he should work at finding her. Desmond sorely opposed this, only because he was selfish and wanted Bastion only to them, and Briard was torn about it. As they neared Faust's room, Lavoy interrupted the plans that they spoke of going to the ocean. "Just a sec, Bastion. Let's get Faust and have him join us before he goes and posts himself up on the wall for another six weeks." Rolling his eyes, Lavoy was obviously being sarcastic, but sometimes, that was not too far from the truth! Faust was probably in his room, dressing and donning all of his weapons with that stern look on his face.

Well, he had SOMETHING on his face, as it seemed. Lavoy swung the door open, his voice reaching loudly before him. "Serv, get your ass up and--SHIT!" Freezing in the doorway, Lavoy's jaw dropped. There, spread eagle on Faust's bed, was the dark haired Fiona, who had been wooing him (impatiently) for months. And there was Serv...definately NOT dressed...with his face in between Fiona's thighs. As Faust's head jerked up, Fiona's face snapped out of the deliciously blissful look and contorted into a look of sheer horror. Shrieking, the dark haired beauty grabbed at the sheets, yanking them up over her bare body. "LAVOY!" She shouted, causing attention to be drawn. Bastion AND the twins both stuck their heads in to peek curiously past Lavoy, then they all began..applauding! Bastion and Lavoy were grinning like devils, and the twins then began groping at Bastion. "May we join them?" Briard whimpered in a pouty voice. Fiona was flooded with a blush that could have put hell's flames to shame, and she reached over and grabbed...the oil lantern beside the bed. Was this looking familiar? The only difference was that this lantern was not lit. Anyhow, she hurled the lantern at the door, and the group leapt out of the way as it crashed beside it. Her aim was not so good. "Jesus..." Lavoy cursed, then burst out laughing. "Hell hath no fury like the scorn of a woman...and that woman is TOO much like Serv."

Sticking his head back into the room, Lavoy smiled sweetly. "We were just wondering if you wanted to join us for a drink. Fiona, you are welcome too, of course. Serv, you might want to wait to empty your mouth before you come fill it again." With that comment, he dodged out the door, slamming it behind them. Fiona and Faust could hear the group snickering as they moved down the hall. Grabbing a pillow, Fiona shoved her red face into it and giggled. "My God, this household is crazy. Every last one of them."