The scent of incense, thick and sweet, hung in the air like a shroud, a comforting blanket over the silence of the church. Dmitri, his weathered face creased with sorrow, knelt on the worn kneeler, his gaze fixed on the shadowed altar. Thirteen? Fourteen? How many months had it been since the red lights had ripped his loved ones, his family, his world away? The silence of the church offered a respite, a fragile haven from the constant ache in his heart, though it couldn't truly soothe it.
He felt Katya's presence beside him, the soft shuffle of her shoes on the tiled floor, the familiar weight of her as she knelt beside him.
'You haven't left here,' she murmured, her voice a hushed whisper in the stillness. 'My brother, we need to leave the city.'
Dmitri felt a tremor in her voice, a subtle tremor that mirrored the one in his heart. She had been searching, just as he had, scouring every corner of the city and beyond, desperately hoping for a sign, a whisper, anything to point them towards their lost loved ones.
'It's so much like home,' he said, his voice low, almost lost in the incense-laden air. He was referring to the church, but the word, the very notion of 'home,' tore at Katya's soul. Home, where their sisters had once been, where they had laughed and shared stories. Viktoriya, Sonya, then later his Damaris, where were they? The thought of them, trapped in the clutches of the red lights, was a constant, gnawing fear.
Katya turned her head, meeting Dmitri's gaze. He looked older, etched with lines that hadn't been there before the red lights had come. His hair, once a rich dark brown, was streaked with silver.
'You've aged,' he said, his voice tinged with regret, his eyes reflecting a deep, unyielding sorrow.
Katya nodded, her throat constricting with emotion. She saw the same in his reflection. The red lights had not only stolen their loved ones; they had stolen time, stolen their youth, stolen their future.
The silence settled between them once more, heavy with the weight of their loss. They sat there, two souls bound by grief, their hearts aching for a home that no longer held their loved ones, for a future that seemed lost in the shadows of the red lights. But in the quiet sanctuary of the church, amidst the scent of incense and the whispers of faith, they clung to hope, a fragile thread in the darkness, a prayer for the day they might see their loved ones again.
He had found her in an alley out of her mind. He knew that face. He'd seen it so many times in his dreams, but then a few times in his lives he'd come across her. Needless to say he was surprised to find her there, cowering in a corner.
Did she know who he was? If she did, did she know how hard he tried to save her? She didn't deserve to die in that arena that day. He did. He betrayed his emperor. When He knew Katya had left with her siblings, he asked to fight 5 gladiators in the arena. Fighting 4 he still would have won, But 5.. he knew his limits. Though now after so many centuries, he'd learned how to defeat that and more if needed.
Now he was here buying antiquities. He'd been here for months. The items he wanted were elusive, but he knew they were here. And now, now he would take her home, feed her. He knew she wasn't mortal, and knew she was like Katya.
He wondered how old she was. Was it recent or not?
Ah it didn't matter.
He carried her into his apartment, laid her on the bed. He could give her his blood, it wouldn't affect her, but he knew he had to be careful. Hopefully they would find her.
He went to the kitchen and cut himself, putting a little bit of blood into a cup. The cut healed quickly as he took the cup to her. Lifting her head he put it to her lips.
"Just a little bit Damaris. Just a little bit."
Letting her drink a little, wetting her lips with it so she could lick them.
He had to figure out what do with her clothes. She was in a ragged dress. It looked newish. At least within the last few years. But there was no id on her. He only knew her first name and she looked identical to one two women who haunted his dreams.. one he couldn't save, the other he lost to time.
With a whisper as soft as a falling leaf, Katya reached out and gently touched his shoulder. 'Come, Mitya,' she urged, her voice trembling. 'Kneeling here will not ease your pain.'
A flicker of resentment crossed Dmitri's face as he turned to look at her, his features etched with lines of despair. 'You don't understand, Katya,' he said, his voice a choked whisper. 'This is the only solace I have in this wretched city.'
Katya's heart twisted with empathy but also a little anger. The sensation drew Dmitri's gaze up to her. How selfish of him, she'd lost her daughter as much as he'd lost his wife.
Dmitri's expression softened slightly, but the pain in his eyes remained. 'I'm sorry, Katya,' he said. 'I know I'm not thinking straight.'
'Don't...' she choked out, her own pain raw, exposed. 'Please, don't.'
'God...Jehovah...' He murmured, his words choked with desperation. He clung to her, seeking the comfort of her presence, burying his face in her hair. His touch was a lifeline, a desperately needed anchor in the storm of his grief, in hers.
With a newfound determination, Katya reached out and took Dmitri's hand. 'Mitya,' she said, her voice steady, 'we must leave. There is no sanctuary for us here. We need to keep looking, not ...not....' Wallowing in sadness, words she didn't say.
Just then, the sound of footsteps echoed through the church. They both looked up and saw the priest descending the stairs from the organ loft, his chasuble rustling against the wooden steps.
Katya's gaze met the priest's, and in that instant, she knew that their lives hung in the balance. "Come brother, we can't delay."
"That's it. Just a little bit, Damaris. I can't let you awaken all at once."
He held her gently as she drank the first drops of blood probably in a while. That troubled him. He would call a friend to help change her. He didn't want to look upon what isn't his. But by line on her finger indicating she had a ring there at some point, she belonged to someone.
He hoped they would be able to find her as she woke up, as her blood was restored. He could give her blood, but what she needed was her sire's blood.
One the sips he gave her were gone, he touched her gently{/i}
"It's ok. I won't leave you alone."
He laid her gently back on the bed, then stood up. He could hear the slight whimper, then nothing. He hoped she would survive.
He could hear the whispers of a name in her mind.. Mitya. He wondered. That name seemed familiar, but he's sure he only heard it once or twice. He'd have to search his memories and his notes. He would do that later.
Picking up his phone he made a call, a vampire he knew. A woman. But someone he trusted. He would have her stay her with them for now.
"Yes, I do need your help."
"No, that isn't true! I call you other times too!"
"Thank you." He chuckles as he hangs up. A few minutes later she's there.
"Thank you Dali. It's appreciated. A young vampire, she needs to be changed into this." Holding up a long blue nightgown. It's all he had, no it wasn't his, but an elderly woman he'd been looking after before she died. Clean. Fresh. but needed.{/i} "And a bath please."
She rolls her eyes and chuckles "Always the gentleman, Val. Of course I will help you. But you really need to stop bringing home strays ya know." Then she disappeared into the bedroom. She would bathe Damaris, and change her while he went out.
Closing his door, he steps out into the street. He needed to go for a walk. Clear his head. Maybe he would remember where he heard that name. And of course he didn't change or wash. He intentionally left her scent on him. Maybe someone would catch it. The wrong people would be dealt with, the right people..
He sighs, walking down the street.
He knew the young woman from his dreams was Jewish. He wondered if this version of her was. Well perhaps. He's met vampires of different faiths. It's very rare, but it does happen. There was a synagogue about a 20 min walk away. He would use that to think and try to remember before he sought out his books.
Pulling his hoodie over his head, slightly hiding his face he set about in that direction, his thoughts on the past as he remains aware of those he passes, gauging reactions.. if any.. to the scent on his body.
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Saint Sergius:.. ..Russian Orthodox Church.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: In the dim twilight, as the last rays of sunlight slipped beneath the horizon, Katya ushered Dmitri out of the church with a gentle tug. The priest's footsteps echoed behind them, but she ignored them, desperate to escape his prying eyes.
As they emerged through the side door, the narrow path between the church and the rectory seemed to stretch endlessly before them. Katya's weary feet dragged along the cobblestones, and she longed for the warmth of her own bed. Normally, Dmitri was her pillar of strength, but today he was lost in a haze of sorrow and memories.
She tugged at his hand, drawing him closer. 'Mitya, please,' she whispered, her voice plaintive. 'I can't do this alone.'
Dmitri's eyes met hers, clouded with pain. 'Damn, I'm sorry,' he muttered. 'You're right, Katya. We need to leave town and go back to Denver.'
They had both known that it was a futile hope. If anyone had heard anything about their missing family, they would have known immediately. But still, they clung to the desperate belief that a miracle might occur.
Their footsteps echoed down the street, each step heavy with grief and despair. As they reached the steps leading up to the small Anshe Emet Synagogue, Katya's gaze fell on the sign. A surge of emotion washed over her, and she paused, causing Dmitri to stop with her.
'Do you want to go in?' she asked softly.
Dmitri hesitated for a moment before nodding. Together, they ascended the steps and entered the dimly lit sanctuary. The flicker of candlelight cast dancing shadows on the walls. (07/14/24 06:26:08 pm) PRIMUS ORDINE | Valerius Lucius | | Human Immortal | | I have lived a long time, and experienced a great many things. | | Seen history come and go, and still know nothing |
..:Street:.. ..Chicago's Alleys and Streets.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to guardian's angel : He continued to walk. It didn't take him as long as it should have. He was perhaps in a bit of a hurry. Sometimes they would have posters on the bulletin board inside. He doesnt' recall if they had any missing persons, but he had to check. The whole reason for him going out so he wasn't home when she was being bathed and changed. He did tell Dali not to give her too much blood, a sip at best right now in a hour. Her mind would slowly awaken with the blood, her body would slowly awaken as well. But it wouldn't a burst of energy. He noticed the door closing, indicating someone had gone inside. Maybe he should wait? Maybe.. no he didn't want to wait. He remembered how Katya took to the girl from the village. He didn't remember many things, but that interaction where he was standing guard stood out. Partly because of what happened days later. Shake of his head as he crosses the street and heads towards the synagogue. Making his way up the stairs, pulling the door open and stepping inside. His eyes looking for some type of bulletin board. Once he found it, he moves to it. "Please.. please please..." Starting to peruse the board for anything.
(07/14/24 06:43:11 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Public Building:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: She had her head bowed, her eyes closed as she listened to Dmitri shift and move as if he couldn't settle. "Mitya," she whispered as she elbowed him. "be still," her words fading as she frowned, lifting her head and shook it before before glancing around. They heard the rasp of paper, her frown reaching her eyes. "noo..not possible." she murmured softly.
Dmitri had stilled but looked at her as she whispered. "What is it?" before he inhaled deeply. "What?" the too faint scent of Damaris reaching his nose giving him the suspicion that it was his imagination. She half rose, breathing in deeply and reached out with her senses. "No...that's not possible," she murmured softly. Dmitri rose as well, "what is it Katya?"
She turned to the doors that led to the foyer. "The ordine primi. ...You remember him?" He looked the same direction as she, reaching out to grip her wrist. "It can't be him, you're imagining it." Dmitri told her, certain it was imagination as much as it was his believing he could scent Damaris.
(07/14/24 06:57:59 pm) PRIMUS ORDINE | Valerius Lucius | | Human Immortal | | I have lived a long time, and experienced a great many things. | | Seen history come and go, and still know nothing |
..:Public Building:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to guardian's angel : Oh but it is possible. Sometimes it's a curse, sometimes a blessing, and at times it's both. Tonight he was of two minds. Looking to see if his guest was being sought after, and perhaps seeing if..
No, did he really think he'd find you? He hoped. As he had for many years. This young woman was his best bet. Though he was hoping you were looking for her, he didn't know. He mutters something in latin. Shaking his head. She wasn't on the board.
But he paused as he heard movement in the sanctuary. He didn't want to disturb anyone, but curiosity made him turn his gaze in that direction. Blinking.. no..
His words a whisper as he spoke "Ekaterina..."
that scent was there intentionally. But could it really be you? He'd dreamed of you for so long and he wasn't one to just run. He took a step forward to see if the vision before him would fade.
(07/14/24 07:05:06 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Public Building:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: She paused as he entered from the foyer, Dmitri drawing to a hald beside her. He recognized him, but he looked different. His face held and age that Dmitri had not recognized. The beard didn't help. But beyond it he recognized the Roman who had come to their home and had captured the attention and hope of his youngest sister. "Katya?" Dmitri turned his head to look at her, standing as she was transfixed as she looked at the man who walked closer.
"Valerius," she whispered softly, closing her eyes briefly as she inhaled deeply. Older. So much older....but then...so were they. "Valerius?" her voice caught on a hope and dream as she took a step closer.
Dmitri released his hold on her wrist as he watched what might be a reunion. How he wished for his own. Again he breathed in. The slight hint of Damaris was sharper as the man drew closer. "Damaris." he growled. "you've Damaris." an accusation in is tone now as he strode to overtake Katya and reach the Roman first.
(07/14/24 07:23:53 pm) PRIMUS ORDINE | Valerius Lucius | | Human Immortal | | I have lived a long time, and experienced a great many things. | | Seen history come and go, and still know nothing |
..:Public Building:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to guardian's angel : His eyes remained on yours, a smile spread across his face as he heard his name. This is usually where these dreams end and he wakes up. Speaking softly. He was about to come even closer and take you in his arms when Dmitri moves past you.
He steps back and nods, taking a breath, holding out his hands "Yes. I found her in an alley unconscious. I will take you to her." meeting Dmitri's eyes, he means no harm to the woman. He really just wants to help her. his eyes went to Katya "I hope one of you is her sire."
the words indicating how bad it could. He's not a vampire, but his interactions have been numerous over the centuries so he knows a little. eyes shifting back to Dmitri "Come. It's not far." in the meantime, in his mind he sent to Dali to finish and to be prepared to leave. He was bringing two with him that he hoped could help. Dali told him to let her know when he was close and she'd leave out the back.
"I have a vampire friend with her now. I figured if Damaris had a surge of energy it was best if it was some one who could hold her."
he waits for Katya, holding his hand out to her. if she takes it, the will walk together. If not he would lead them both to his home. (07/14/24 07:37:52 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Street:.. ..Chicago's Alleys and Streets.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: Lead? No one said anything about lead. She had felt the alarm and fear in Dmitri just as he felt it in hers. His momentary hesitation allowed Katya to pass him to grip tightly to Valerius hand. She wanted to embrace him, but her desire was more for reaching Damaris. Surely she knew where Viktoriya and Sonya were. "I'm her sire," she told him as she hastened past him and pulled him to the door. "which way,?" her appeal could be felt and not only just heard.
Dmitri was left to hurry after them, "She's my wife," he added a bit unnecessarily as Katya picked up speed and fairly sought to drag Valerius down the street. "Which way?" she was asking in her eagerness to be with her child.
(07/14/24 07:49:58 pm) PRIMUS ORDINE | Valerius Lucius | | Human Immortal | | I have lived a long time, and experienced a great many things. | | Seen history come and go, and still know nothing |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to guardian's angel : He would laugh, if it were any other situation. A nod to Dmitri, taking a breath, he sends to Dali that they will be there shortly. She tells him the woman keeps whimpering 'Mitya'. He assures her he's bringing him.
He tells Katya how to get there and outside the bafck door of his antique shop, they stop. He turns to both of them for a moment "She doesn't look good. It appears she hasn't had blood for a long time and it shows. I don't even know if she'll know who you both are." He turns to the door and opens it. There is another door right in front of them and stairs to the left. he runs up the stairs. The window was open and Dali was gone. He sends ::Thank you:: to Dali as he leads them to the room she's in. Opening the door to a very unconscious, emaciated Damaris.
She's not moving, but she's not in full torpor yet. Stepping out of the way to let them pass, releasing Katya's hand. There will be time to embrace later. For now.. Damaris needs them. "I've given her a few drops of my blood. I didn't want her waking up and trying to kill me. not that I think she would have had the energy for it." she's been bathed and changed into something clean. The dress she was wearing is draped over the chair. it was the dress she was wearing when she was last seen.
Damaris is in there somewhere. But she needs helping coming back.. and there is no knowing what state she will be in. (07/14/24 07:57:55 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: They couldn't arrive quickly enough to her mind but as they drew near, they didn't need Valerius to direct them. They felt her. She raced up the stairs, barely allowing him time to open the door for her when she rushed in only to turn and slam the door closed. A split seamed the door from top of the center panel halfway down. "Wait!" she commaned the two men as she flicked the lock on the door before she turned to approach the slumbering Damaris.
Her heart broke at the sight of her, the image contrasting how beautiful Damaris had been when she became Katya's blood-child. "Haifa.." she whispered softly as she approached, her fingernails elongating into sharp razorlike appendages. Sliding one nail across her wrist, she held it before Damaris' mouth. "Drink my darling girl. Please...drink.." she knelt down next to the bed, one arm sliding beneath Damari's head as the other pressed her bloodied wrist to the girl..
Outside the doorway, Dmitri hit the side of the doorframe, cracking it to match the door. "Katya!" he shouted but he knew it would do little good. This was a blood-sire issue and he was not Damaris' sire. He had to close his eyes, resting his forehead against the door as he listened to Katya plead for Damaris to drink.
(07/14/24 08:24:42 pm) PRIMUS ORDINE | Valerius Lucius | | Human Immortal | | I have lived a long time, and experienced a great many things. | | Seen history come and go, and still know nothing |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to guardian's angel : He raises a brow as you rush up the stairs to the room she's in. Hearing the door slam and seeing it crack, then hearing the lock engage. He gives his head a slight shake, glancing to Dmitri as he cracks the frame. He could make some comment about how they have to pay for damages, but he doesn't. He wouldn't make them. it's not like he doesn't have plenty to do that.
He glances to Dmitri, again. Taking a breath "I carried her here a few hours ago. When my friend came to bathe her and change her, I kept her scent on me intentionally, hoping I would find those who love her. I'm glad I found you both." Finding Katya was a dual blessing for him. But he was sure there had to a reason whatever had her, brought her here.
There was a slight whimper as she heard a voice. Familiar.. yet not. She should be able to think, to feel.. but there is nothing.
Then she tastes it. Blood.. Like reflex she closes her mouth around the wound to drink. She doesn't drink as much as she probably should but when she releases your wrist it's with a sigh, resting her head against you. The scent is familiar.. but not. She can't place it. But then .. where is she? How did she get here? There were so many questions. but right now she wanted to rest. lips move in silent whispers. (07/14/24 08:37:45 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to PRIMUS ORDINE | Valeri: Tears swept down her cheeks as she felt the first suckling against her wrist. "My darling girl," Katya whispered over and over as she soothed her hand over the dry and brittle hair of Damaris. Gone was the lovely dark curls which she had spent hours brushing as Damaris fought through those months after embracin her. "I love you, my daughter, my beautiful daughter," Katya whispered then, pressing a kiss to Damaris' head She'd expected Damaris to drink more, frowning as she seemed to ease off far too soon. "Drink some more," she tried to encourage her even as she heard the soft whispering murmurs. "Darling.. Mitya is here. you can see him as soon as you're better. He's outside. He's right outside. "Come on, drink some more."
Again she lacerated her wrist, positioning the blood to flow into Damaris' mouth. "Come ...drink some more." she encourage her.
Dmitri sank down by the door, his head leaning back as he listened to what was happening and cursed the fact he had to accede to Damaris' sire in all things Damaris. "She'll need blood," his voice was softly as he looked up to Valerius. "Katya....if she feeds Damaris as much as she needs, she will need it."
(07/16/24 07:24:13 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to ALL: She heard that familiar voice, but she wasn't sure how. Still it was comforting, like some how she was connected with the woman who owned. She wanted to sleep. So tired. But she was told to drink. She was sure that she was saying no.. no.. sleep.. sleep. But she felt the wrist to her lips again and the blood continued to flow into her mouth.
As if by instinct her mouth latched onto it and sucked on it. Drinking. She would drink until her body told her to sleep. It wasn't just a whim. She drank much more than she did the first time. Color already returning as much as it would.
At being told that Mitya was here she smiles.. whispering his name "Mitya, my love.. Mitya"
Valerius crouches across from Dmitri, aware the man was frustrated and probably relieved that she's been found. He listens, nodding softly "She can drink of me when she's ready." spoken softly as he thinks back to that day in the arena, but pushes the memories away. sTanding to his feet. "Would you like anything to drink or eat?" some eat and drink, others either just don't or can't. He's seen Katya eat so he figures either you can or do. (07/16/24 07:27:00 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
says to ALL: appears (07/16/24 07:40:07 pm) guardian's angel
EKATERINA ' Katya' BELIKOVA ]| Justinian | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Zashchitniki | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : "Darling," she murmured softly as she watched her young one feed but no where enough that she was satisfied. Yet, for now, it would be enough. "Yes dear. He's here. I'm here. We're here. We'll always be here." but the words sounded hollow to her own mind as Rosita, Sonya and Vikusha were still missing. "I have you," she whispered softly as she crawled on the bed with her too frail and too weak daughter. Gently she cradled her in her arms, "I have you," she repeated again and again. She closed her eyes, tears seeping down her cheeks and pressed her cheek against the straw fragile hair of the young woman who had taken her heart so many years before. "Sleep...sleep.." her voice breaking on the words as she closed her eyes to force back the tears.
Dmitri, hearing the soft words responded in much the same way, his hands gripping tightly together as he pressed his knuckles to his lips, holding back his own anguished cry. It was Valerius who gave him the fortitude to focus on something else. "No...no.." his own voice graveled and hoarse. (07/16/24 07:44:35 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
PRIVATELY whispers to Guardian's Angel : test (07/16/24 07:51:49 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to ALL: She sighs softly and takes a breath, letting out slowly as you hold her close. Her mind trying to figure things out. The splashes of memory trying to assert themselves. At the words to sleep.. she does. Though not without some nightmares.. It was nothing earthly it seems, but.. terrifying. She can't move though as though she's trapped in a dark void still. There is only a slight whimper, then the nightmare falls away. It would come again.
At some point she whispers "Mama....." she sank into the comfort offered.
Valerius watches Dmitri and glances to the door. He knows Katya can hear him without opening it "Katya.. come and drink. Let Dmitri hold her while You replenish what you need." Yes he was offering his own. And maybe he could hold you a little bit until she was ready to drink more. He hoped she would consent. In part for Dmitri, but also his own selfish reasons. He wouldn't deny that.. ever. (07/16/24 07:59:07 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : The tears continued to fall as she hear the soft cries, felt the fear and terror that rolled through the woman in her arms. "it's alright, it's alright, it's alright.' she soothed her over and over until the tremors eased the the soft whimpers stilled. "shhh..my girl...my girl.." rocking her gently as the hours passed. It was the single word that captured her breath and she whispered softly, "yes darling, your mama....." pressing a kiss to her hair as she murmured, "your mama..."
At Valerius words, her expression softened but the pain remained. "No.. I can't leave her. I can't." for she knew that even with Mitya, he could not feed her....she needed her, right now. Later she could turn her over, but now, they'd have to rip her away and it would be a fight. (07/16/24 08:13:45 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Angel : Valerius, nods in understanding. Well the sort of understanding one can have looking from the outside in. "We will be here." He moved to sit beside Dmitri, clashing a hand to his shoulder as he did. He tried man. But he knew soon enough Dmitri would be able to hold her again.
She didn't know how long she slept. It could have been moments but her eyes opened a little bit. The soft flutter of lashes as her eyes moved even if her head didn't. They closed again as she licked her lips. A breath taken and released. She tugs herself a little tighter to you as you comfort her, she nods and takes a breath. Her eyes closed again she lays there seemingly in that void again. No thoughts, but something was different. She felt comfort and love.
Her eyes open again, a little more, a breath taken and as she looks around, one word is whispered "Where?" (07/16/24 08:22:04 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : "Thank you,' she assured Valerius. She didn't know if he would understand, it was hard for those who were not of their line. For most, vampires were vampires and one could feed as well as the other, but not them...not her. This was her responsibility.
Through the time her arms tightened and eased as she gently held her. Feeling the emotions that ebbed and flowed around them, she breathed in both mingled relief and sadness. "there you are..." she whispered as Damaris opened her eyes and for the moment said a conscious word. 'where?". "Chicago darling. We're in Chicago. We've been looking for you for a very long time, but we were never giving up."
she waited a moment, "You need to feed darling. The sooner you are better, the sooner you can see Mitya. ...and he want's to see you so terribly much." her voice again broke with the emotion that swamped over her. (07/16/24 08:33:24 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Angel : eyes were clouded, she was seeing through a haze, a fog of sorts as she looked around. Her eyes moved back to Yours as she listened to you speak. She had more questions, but they could wait.
At the words of needing to feed, she nods. A smile as you say she can see Mitya sooner when she's better. She nods, whispers singular words agian "Miss.. Love.. Mitya, you." then she nods "Ready.. feed" Once you do offer her your arm she would latch on again and drink. Her eyes fluttering closed as she did. Oddly she was very conscious of not wanting to drain you fully. Though she wasn't aware how.
She figured she'd probably be weak for a little while even with the feeding. She felt like a child again. Her thoughts were scattered and erratic. If she could focus she'd probably be better, more coherent. But she couldn't. She didn't know how long you'd been looking for her, but it felt like a very long time.
She would feed until you directed her to stop. (07/16/24 08:41:18 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : It took a while for she was willing to give her life for you. Each moment you eased and tried to pull away from feeding, she soothed and encouraged you to drink until the hair which felt so straw and fragile became thicker and more luxurious. Skin that was parchment dry and cracking, softened and filled out. Lips rough and dry would plump and soften. "Drink...drink.."s he said again as she closed her own eyes and relaxed back, breathing deeply.
"Focus....on...me.." she said softly, repeating the story of their meeting in Russia, of her becoming part of the family, of Mitya and the months that passed as she spent her first months with her ...Sonya...Viktoriya... all that transpired, knowing the cloudiness of mind, the scattered thoughts need a focus. (07/16/24 08:56:52 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Angel : She didn't drink like she was starving, taking everything she could get as fast as she could. Not there was a great amount of control where you were concerned. Valerius had been right to give her a little bit at a time. Had he over fed her she might have tried to kill him. Unaware that he might die, but it would be a short death.
She listened to the story, focusing on You and your voice but what you spoke only created more questions but they would wait until later. She could feel the changes in her body.. her hair and skin, lips. Her muscles seemed to feel.. better. She had aches fading that even though they were only there temporarily, it was still too long.
She still remembered falling for Mitya, but she didn't remember the dreams that were the instigators of that. She listened to each word. And though she might forget some for now. She was sure she'd replay it later and the questions would return.
She was feeling better. Though her vision remained the same, her eyes were clear and bright.. though something of what she went through before remained in their depths. She wasn't sure she wanted to remember it so she pushed it deeper for now. Maybe one day she'll talk about it.
When she finished feeding she sighs kissing your wrist in thanks. She had no words right now. (07/16/24 09:10:19 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : It was the light kiss that did her in and she whispered softly, "mity..a.." before the sound faded to silence, he was there lifting her to her feet. The door lay in shambles behind them. "Can you make it?" alarm for the pale wan look that coated her skin, and Damaris still laying upon the bed.
"Yes.. I can..." she looked up to him, resting her head against his shoulder in a brief motion. "there...chair.." swallowing as she licked her own dry lips. She felt groggy, a bit sleeping...knowing it was a bit of Damaris and her own loss of blood.
Dmitri let her to the nearby chair, settling her on it, turning his gaze to the ravaged door. "Sorry.." to Valerius. the words about the only apology he could give at the moment before his attention was taken by Damaris. Another breath later he settled next to her, drawing her into his arm. "It's me....do you know?" the confusion and questions seemed to speckle the air around him. (07/16/24 09:23:33 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Angel : Valerius chuckled to himself as the door was suddenly splintered. He entered as well and went to Katya as Dmitri lead her to a chair. He lifts her up and sits in the chair. It was a large comfy chair.. or so Dali likened it.. setting on it and sitting her in his lap. He offer her a wrist as he watches for only a moment and giving you his full attention. "I can take us to another room to give them some privacy." It was spoken softly, resting his head against her temple. He doesn't wait for an answer, he lifts her up and takes her to the room next door. Another even more comfortable chair aways, sitting there, the door remaining open. "NOw it's your turn to feed and sleep."
She felt Katya leave and another replace her. Her eyes looking up to see Dmitri. At his question she nods "Mitya.. my heart" She had spoken almost completely in Russian the whole time ((OOops should have said that lol)) She curls against him, taking a breath and resting her head against the crook of his neck "MIssed.. love.. so much." she had a lot of confusion and questions, but the seemed for fade for now when his arms wrapped around her and she felt him against her. Taking a soft breath and letting it out slowly (07/16/24 09:31:58 pm) Guardian's Angel
EKATERINA Katya BELIKOVA ]| Zashchitniki | V a m p i r e | Clan |[ | Family Strategist | League of the Night Guardians We can only control the end by making a choice at each step. Chicago, The Presidium
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Gentle Lamb : She was about to refuse when he carried her to the other room. "Sit," she told him declining the seat which was offered. It was clear by the way she stood that she would only wait for him to settle himself into the seat before she would kneel before him, resting her head briefly upon his knees.
(yeh I didn't say it either but it was a given)
'yes...yes.." Dmitri soothed her as he cradled her gently against him. His heart broke to see her, not as healthy and vibrant as she was the days after she'd been turned. But, she was with him, and that made it bearable. "I missed you. So much." his low growl of the words moved over them as his embrace tightened and he sighed his own sigh of relief to feel her in his arms. (07/16/24 09:39:54 pm) Guardian's Gentle Lamb | Damaris Belikova | | Vampire - Justinian | | When you have eaten and are satisfied | |give praise to your God who has given you this good earth |
..:Private Residence:.. ..somewhere in the city.. .City of Chicago, IL. says to Guardian's Angel : Valerius nods, sitting in the seat. When Katya kneels, and rests her head on his knees his hand caresses her hair softly. The other hand resting and waiting. He bends to kiss the top of her head before sitting up, his hand still caressing her hair. He had so much he wanted to tell her, but for now.. he was happy to be with her again.
Damaris lifts a hand to caress Dmitri's cheek, smiling.. happy to see him. Resting now in his arms she was happy, she felt safe. For now she was content to caress his cheek and lips press in a soft kiss. Tears form but don't yet fall. Resting her head against him. "Here.. now. not leave." another kiss before her head rests against him. Happy and content. Katya and Mitya with her now.
